Control device with adaptive transmission power

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device with adaptive transmission power. The control device may be configured to transmit messages using the adaptive transmission power. The control device may determine a transmission power for transmitting the message based on a command in the message. The control device may determine a transmission power based on a change in illumination intensity caused by the command. The transmission power may be greater when the illumination intensity change is above a threshold than when the light intensity change is below the threshold. The control device may determine whether the message is successfully received based on reception of an acknowledgement message. When the message is not received, the control device may increase the transmission power and retransmit the message including the command at the increased transmission power. The control device may store (e.g., learn) the increased transmission power for later use.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application filed on April 17, 2020, with application number 202080044495.1 and invention title "Control Device with Adaptive Transmission Power".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 836,348, filed April 19, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0004] For example, various types of load control systems can be used to configure user environments such as residential or office buildings. Lighting control systems can be used to control lighting loads in a user environment. The lighting control system may include various devices capable of communicating via radio frequency (RF) communication, such as input devices and load control devices. For example, a remote control device (e.g., an input device) can be used to communicate with lighting devices (e.g., light bulbs) in the load control system to control the lighting level (e.g., intensity) of the lighting devices. The devices can communicate in a network using RF communication, such as... communication; Communication; or such as CLEAR CONNECT TM Dedicated communication.

[0005] Lighting fixtures in a user environment can be jointly controlled by a shared lighting control unit capable of dimming or switching a group of fixtures on or off. This shared lighting control unit can be mobile (e.g., not stationary) and can be battery-powered. RF communication may consume the limited power of the shared lighting control unit. RF communication can be performed inefficiently, for example, using static transmission power, which may not take into account the mobility of the shared lighting control unit. Therefore, if RF communication is not performed effectively, the battery of the shared control unit may frequently run out. Users of the shared lighting control unit may need to constantly replace batteries, leading to a poor user experience.

[0006] A shared lighting control unit can control lighting fixtures asynchronously via RF. For example, the shared lighting control unit may not transmit commands periodically. Instead, it can transmit commands (e.g., asynchronously) in response to unexpected user input (e.g., user interaction). Furthermore, when the lighting control unit is movable, its position relative to the lighting fixtures may change during a single user input and / or between different user inputs. Therefore, the environmental conditions for communication via RF may be inconsistent. However, certain characteristics of RF communication (e.g., transmission power) can remain static, which can lead to unsuccessful or inefficient RF communication.

[0007] A shared lighting control unit can control multiple lighting devices, for example, by transmitting commands to each of them. However, one or more of these lighting devices may fail to receive the commands. A lighting device that fails to receive the commands may become out of sync with other lighting devices controlled by the shared lighting control unit (e.g., the lighting device that received the commands), and this effect can be significant. Furthermore, the effect of not receiving a particular command may be more pronounced than the effect of not receiving other commands (e.g., an on / off command may be more pronounced than an up / down command). Summary of the Invention

[0008] A remote control device can be configured to transmit messages for controlling lighting fixtures using variable (e.g., adaptive) transmission power. The remote control device may receive user input, for example, via a user interface. The remote control device can determine commands from various command types (e.g., on / off commands, toggle commands, raise commands, lower commands, raise / lower amounts, switch to a level, move to a level, move to a level at a certain rate, gradual move commands, preset commands, etc.) based on the user input. The remote control device can determine the transmission power for transmitting messages including the commands based on the command type. For example, the remote control device can determine the transmission power based on a change in lighting level caused by the command. The remote control device can transmit messages including commands to adjust the lighting level of the lighting load.

[0009] The remote control device can be configured to adjust the transmission power used to transmit messages including commands. The remote control device can determine a first transmission power for transmitting messages including commands. The remote control device can transmit messages including commands at the first transmission power. The remote control device can determine whether a message including commands has been received (e.g., based on receiving an acknowledgment in response to a message including commands). When a message including commands is not received, the remote control device can determine a second transmission power. For example, the second transmission power could be an increased transmission power relative to the first transmission power.

[0010] The remote control device can determine the initial transmission power for transmitting messages including commands based on the command type. The remote control device can determine the change in lighting level caused by the command. The remote control device can compare the change in lighting level to a threshold. When the change in lighting level is greater than the threshold, the remote control device can set the transmission power to the maximum transmission power. When the change in lighting level is less than the threshold, the remote control device can set the transmission power to the minimum transmission power.

[0011] The remote control device can be configured to determine the transmission power for transmitting a message including a command based on the command type. The remote control device can receive user input, for example, via a user interface. The remote control device can determine the command based on the user input. For example, the command may include control instructions for controlling a lighting load (e.g., indicating a change in light intensity). The remote control device can determine a first transmission power based on the amount of light intensity change caused by the command. For example, the first transmission power may be the maximum transmission power when the light intensity change caused by the command is above a threshold. And, or alternatively, the first transmission power may be the minimum transmission power when the light intensity change caused by the command is below a threshold. The remote control device can transmit the command in the message using the first transmission power. The remote control device can determine whether the message including the command has been successfully received, for example, based on an acknowledgment message. For example, when an acknowledgment message is received, the remote control device can determine that the message including the command has been successfully received. Similarly, when no acknowledgment message is received, the remote control device can determine that the message including the command has not been received. When the message including the command has not been received, the remote control device may increase the first transmission power to a second transmission power and retransmit the message including the command.

[0012] After the remote control device has stored the transmission power used to transmit messages to other control devices, the remote control device can update the stored transmission power P. STORED For example, the remote control device can update the stored transmission power P in response to changes in network conditions. STORED To reduce battery usage at the control unit and / or increase the likelihood of successful communication (e.g., taking into account changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions). The remote control unit can update the stored transmission power P used for communication transmission during the learning process. STORED During the learning process, the remote control device may increase or decrease the learned transmission power to identify the updated transmission power stored at the remote control device.

[0013] A remote control device can learn the transmission power used to effectively transmit messages including commands. The remote control device may receive user input, for example, via a user interface. The remote control device can determine a command with a defined command type based on the user input. The remote control device can determine the transmission power used to transmit the command based on the amount of change in light intensity caused by the command type. For example, when the change in light intensity caused by the command type is higher than a threshold, the transmission power used for the message may be a first transmission power. When the change in light intensity caused by the command type is lower than the threshold, the transmission power may be a second transmission power. The remote control device can transmit the command in the message using the determined transmission power.

[0014] The remote control device can learn and adjust its transmission power based on test transmission power and recognition of whether a message transmitted at the test transmission power has been successfully received. The remote control device can determine whether a message including a command has been successfully received based on receiving an acknowledgment message. The remote control device can set the test transmission power and continue to decrease it as it continues to receive acknowledgment messages. When the remote control device fails to receive an acknowledgment message in response to a message transmitted at the test transmission power, it can store the previously received acknowledgment test transmission power as the transmission power for transmitting future messages.

[0015] The remote control device may fail to receive an acknowledgment message in response to a message transmitted at test transmission power, and will continue to increase the test transmission power until acknowledgment is received. The remote control device may store the received acknowledgment test transmission power as the transmission power for transmitting future messages. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An example of a load control system that can be implemented for transmitting one or more message types is described.

[0017] Figure 2A and Figure 2B It is a sequence diagram depicting an exemplary message flow for transmitting messages between a remote control device and a lighting device in a load control system.

[0018] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C It is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process for transmitting messages using adaptive transmission power.

[0019] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4CIt is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process for learning the transmission power used to transmit messages from a control device in a load control system.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an exemplary load control device.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an exemplary controller device.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an exemplary network device.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a block diagram of an exemplary system controller. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An example of a load control system 100 capable of implementing one or more message types for transmitting messages (e.g., digital messages) is depicted. Figure 1A As shown, the control system 100 may include various control devices, such as controller devices and / or load control devices. The controller device may send messages to the load control device, causing the load control device to control the electrical power supplied from the AC power source 102 to the electrical load in the load control system 100.

[0025] Load control devices can control electrical loads within a room and / or building. Each load control device may be able to directly control the electrical force supplied to the electrical load in response to communication from a controller device. Exemplary load control devices may include lighting fixtures 112a, 112b and / or lighting fixture 122 (e.g., load control devices in light bulbs, ballasts, light-emitting diode (LED) drivers, etc.). The lighting fixture may be the lighting load itself or a device that includes the lighting load and a lighting load controller.

[0026] A controller device can indirectly control the electrical force supplied to an electrical load by transmitting messages to a load control device. The messages may include control commands (e.g., load control commands) or other indications that cause the load control device to determine load control commands for controlling the electrical load. An example controller device may include a remote control device 116. The controller device may include wired or wireless devices.

[0027] Control devices (e.g., controller devices and / or load control devices) can communicate with each other and / or with other devices via wired and / or wireless communication. Control devices can communicate using digital messages in wireless signals. For example, control devices can communicate via radio frequency (RF) signals 106. Communication can be made via RF communication protocols (e.g., Near Field Communication (NFC); Low energy consumption (BLE) Dedicated communication protocols, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X TM (etc.) transmit RF signal 106. The message may be transmitted via RF signal 106 as a multicast message and / or a unicast message.

[0028] The lighting fixture 122 can be installed in a plug-in device 124, such as a lamp (e.g., a table lamp). The plug-in device 124 can be coupled in series with the lighting fixture 122 via an AC power source 102. The plug-in device 124 can be inserted into an electrical outlet 126 powered by the AC power source 102. The plug-in device 124 can be inserted into the electrical outlet 126 or into a separate plug-in load control device, which is inserted into the electrical outlet 126 and configured to control the power supplied to the lighting fixture 122.

[0029] Lighting fixtures 112a and 112b can be controlled by a wall-mounted load control device 110. Although in Figure 1A Lighting fixtures 112a and 112b are shown, but any number of lighting fixtures that can be supported by the wall-mounted load control device 110 and / or the AC power supply 102 can be implemented. The wall-mounted load control device 110 can be coupled in series with the AC power supply 102 to the lighting fixtures 112a and 112b. The wall-mounted load control device 110 may include a mechanical switch 111 (e.g., a previously installed lamp switch) that can be opened and closed in response to actuation of a switching actuator (not shown) for controlling the power supplied from the AC power supply 102 to the lighting fixtures 112a and 112b (e.g., for turning the lighting fixtures 112a and 112b on and off). The lighting fixtures 112a and 112b can be installed in corresponding ceiling-mounted downlight fixtures 114a and 114b or other lighting fixtures mounted on another surface. The wall-mounted load control device 110 can be adapted to be wall-mounted in a standard electrical box.

[0030] The remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit messages via RF signal 106 for controlling lighting devices 112a, 112b. For example, the remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit messages via RF signal 106 to a load control device (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b) within the wireless communication range of the remote control device. The remote control device 116 may be battery powered.

[0031] The remote control device 116 may be a modified remote control device mounted on the switching actuator of the mechanical switch 111. The remote control device 116 may be configured to maintain the switching actuator of the mechanical switch 111 in the "ON" position (e.g., by covering the switch when in the "ON" position) to maintain the flow of power from the AC power supply 102 to the lighting fixtures 112a, 112b. Alternatively, the remote control device 116 may be mounted to another structure such as a wall (e.g., in addition to the switching actuator of the mechanical switch 111), may be attached to a base located on a horizontal surface, or may be handheld. Furthermore, the wall-mounted load control device 110 may include a wall-mounted remote control device that replaces the previously installed mechanical switch 111 and may be configured to function as the remote control device 116 to control the lighting fixtures 112a, 112b (e.g., by transmitting messages via RF signal 106). This wall-mounted remote control device may be powered by the AC power supply 102.

[0032] The remote control device 116 may include an actuating portion 117 (e.g., a "toggle" button or actuator) that can be actuated (e.g., pushed toward mechanical switch 111) and a rotating portion 118 (e.g., a knob) that can be rotated (e.g., relative to mechanical switch 111). The remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit messages including commands for turning lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 on and off in response to actuation (e.g., pressing) of the actuating portion 117, and commands for adjusting the intensity (e.g., lighting level) of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 in response to actuation (e.g., rotation) of the rotating portion 118. Although the rotating portion 118 is disclosed, the remote control device 116 may include another type of intensity adjustment actuator, such as a linear slider, an elongated touch-sensitive actuator, a rocker switch, a separate lift / lower actuator, or another form of intensity adjustment actuator. The remote control device 116 may also include a status indicator 119, which can be illuminated to provide feedback to the user. When the actuating part 117 and / or the rotating part 118 is actuated, the remote control device 116 may transmit a message via RF signal 106 and illuminate the status indicator 119 for the duration of the control event. The control event may last from the moment the actuating part 117 and / or the rotating part 118 is first actuated to begin the control event until a certain amount of time (e.g., several seconds) after the actuation of the actuating part 117 and / or the rotating part 118 stops. A single actuation of the actuating part 117 may result in a short control event, while continued rotation of the rotating part 118 may result in a long control event.

[0033] In response to the remote control device 116 (e.g., in response to actuation of the actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116), lighting devices 112a and 112b can be turned on or off, or their intensity levels can be adjusted. For example, the lighting devices 112a and 112b can be switched on or off via a switching event recognized at the remote control device 116. The switching event can be a user input recognized at the remote control device 116. The actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116 can be actuated to switch the lighting devices 112a and 112b on or off. The rotation portion 118 of the remote control device 116 can be rotated to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a and 112b. A switching event can be recognized when the rotation portion 118 of the remote control device 116 is rotated by a predetermined amount or for a predetermined time, and / or when the actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116 is actuated. The lighting levels of the lighting devices 112a and 112b can be increased or decreased by rotating the rotating part 118 of the remote control device 116 in one or the other direction. Although in Figure 1A and Figure 1B While shown as including a knob, the remote control device 116 may include a toggle switch that can be actuated by a user, a linear control that a user can swipe their finger over, a rise / fall slider, a rocker switch, or another type of control that can receive user interface events as commands.

[0034] The remote control device 116 can transmit messages via RF signal 106 to control lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122. The remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit an on / off command (e.g., an "on" event) for turning on the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122. For example, the on / off command may cause the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 to be turned on to a maximum intensity (e.g., 100%), a predetermined intensity, and / or a previous intensity (e.g., an "on" event). Additionally, the remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit an off command for turning off the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 (e.g., 0%). Furthermore, the remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit switching commands for switching the states of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., causing the lighting devices to switch from off to on (e.g., an "on" event) or from on to off (e.g., an "off" event). For example, the remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit a switching command in response to detecting a switching event. The lighting levels of the "on" event and / or "off" event may also be stored, or alternatively stored, at the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, and when an "on" event or "off" event is received at the remote control device 116, the lighting level is transmitted accordingly. When an indication of an "off" event occurs, the lighting device may change to the stated lighting level. A message may cause an "on" event when the remote control device 116 is rotated a predefined distance or time in one direction. For example, the remote control device 116 may transmit a message when it is recognized as having rotated for 100 milliseconds (ms). A message may indicate an "off" event when the remote control device 116 is rotated a predefined distance or time in the opposite direction. A message may indicate either an "on" event or an "off" event when the actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116 is actuated.

[0035] The remote control device 116 can be configured to use absolute control to adjust the intensity of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to control the intensity of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to an absolute level (e.g., a specific level). For example, the remote control device 116 can transmit a message including a move to a certain level command (e.g., switch to a certain level or switch to command), the move to a certain level command identifying the lighting level that the lighting devices can be set to. The move to a certain level command may include an amount of time during which the lighting level can be changed at the lighting devices. The move to a certain level command may cause an "on" event or an "off" event to turn the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 on or off, respectively. For example, a move to a certain level command with 100% lighting level or another preset lighting level may cause an "on" event. A move to a certain level command with 0% intensity level may cause an "off" event.

[0036] In response to a user interface event (e.g., actuation, rotation, finger swipe, etc.) or a proximity sensing event (e.g., sensing circuitry detecting an occupant near remote control device 116), remote control device 116 may determine a starting point (e.g., a dynamic starting point) for the controllable illumination level of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. Each rotation of the rotating portion 118 may cause remote control device 116 to determine the dynamic starting point for the executable control. In response to a user interface event and / or a proximity sensing event (e.g., sensing circuitry detecting an occupant near remote control device 116), remote control device 116 may query the current state of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., after waking from sleep mode). The current state of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be used to set the dynamic starting point for the executable control of remote control device 116. For example, the remote control device 116 can set the dynamic starting point of the rotating part 118 to the current intensity level of the first lighting device 112a, 112b, 122 in response to the query (e.g., on, off, 10%, 20%, etc.), or predefine the current intensity level of the lighting device 112a, 112b, 122.

[0037] In another example, the remote control device 116 may set the dynamic starting point of the rotating section 118 based on the intensity levels of multiple lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the remote control device 116 may set the dynamic starting point of the rotating section 118 to the average intensity level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., on, off, 10%, 20%, etc.) or the common intensity level of most of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., on, off, 10%, 20%, etc.). For example, when the rotating section 118 rotates clockwise to increase the intensity level of the lighting devices, the remote control device 116 may set the dynamic starting point of the rotating section 118 to the maximum level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, or when the rotating section 118 rotates counterclockwise to decrease the intensity level of the lighting devices, the remote control device may set the dynamic starting point to the minimum level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The status indicator 119 can be illuminated as feedback to reflect the dynamic starting point to the user. For example, the remote control device 116 can illuminate a portion of the status indicator 119, which reflects the lighting intensity set as the dynamic starting point.

[0038] The remote control device 116 can calculate an increase or decrease in intensity level from a dynamic starting point based on user interface events. For example, the remote control device 116 can calculate an increase or decrease in intensity level based on the distance or amount of time the rotating part 118 is rotated. Rotation starting from the point of initial interaction between the user and the rotating part 118 can be used to identify an increase or decrease in intensity level from a dynamic starting point. When the remote control device 116 includes a linear control, the remote control device 116 can calculate an increase or decrease in intensity level based on the distance or amount of time the user swipes their finger up or down on the linear control. The user's finger swipe starting from the point of initial interaction between the user and the linear control can be used to identify an increase or decrease in intensity level from a dynamic starting point.

[0039] An updated intensity level can be calculated based on the user's initial interaction and stored at the remote control device 116. When the remote control device 116 uses absolute control, the updated intensity level can be included in a move-to-level command transmitted from the remote control device 116 to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0040] When the rotating portion 118 is rotated in a certain direction (e.g., clockwise), the remote control device 116 can transmit a message configured to increase the illumination level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. As previously mentioned, the remote control device 116 can be configured to use absolute control to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to an absolute level. Alternatively, the remote control device 116 can be configured to use relative control to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 by a relative amount. For example, when the remote control device 116 rotates in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the remote control device 116 can transmit a message configured to decrease the illumination level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The message may include a move command at a certain rate, which causes the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to change their respective intensity levels by a predefined amount. A move-at-a-rate command may include an amount of time during which the illumination level can be changed at the lighting fixtures. The move-at-a-rate command may cause the lighting fixtures 112a, 112b, 122 to maintain their relative or proportional intensity levels and / or differences in their respective intensity levels. The remote control device 116 may send a message to increase or decrease the illumination level by a predefined amount while rotating a predefined distance or for a predefined time. The amount of increase or decrease may be indicated in the message or predefined at the lighting fixtures 112a, 112b, 122. The message may also include a move-at-a-rate-level command, which may include the illumination level controlled to the lighting fixtures 112a, 112b, 122 and the amount of time during which the illumination level can be changed at the lighting fixtures.

[0041] When a user rotates the remote control device 116 a predefined distance or time in one or another direction, the remote control device 116 can transmit messages including commands to increase or decrease the lighting intensity level of lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 at a certain rate in predefined increments. As the user continues to rotate the remote control device 116, it can continue to transmit messages to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122. For example, the remote control device 116 can recognize rotation over a predefined distance or time and send one or more messages instructing each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 to increase by ten percent (10%). The remote control device 116 can recognize continued rotation over a predefined distance or time and send messages instructing the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 to increase by another ten percent (10%).

[0042] The remote control device 116 may also, or alternatively, send messages for commands to move to a certain level (e.g., "on" command, "off" command, toggle command, etc.) used to turn the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 on / off. When an on or off event is detected, the remote control device 116 may transmit one or more messages to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the remote control device 116 may recognize rotation or actuation and send messages to instruct the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to turn on / off. The remote control device 116 may operate by sending a command to move at a certain rate after being turned on. For example, the remote control device 116 may recognize rotation over a predefined distance or time after being turned on and send messages to instruct the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to increase / decrease a predefined intensity (e.g., percentage + (10%)).

[0043] The remote control device 116 can transmit messages as multicast and / or unicast messages via RF signal 106. For example, a message including a command to move at a certain rate or to move to a certain level can be transmitted as a unicast message. Unicast messages can be sent directly from the remote control device 116 or via a jump to each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The remote control device 116 can send unicast messages individually to each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with it to perform load control. The remote control device 116 can store a unique identifier for each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with it in its memory. The remote control device 116 can generate a separate unicast message for each lighting device 112a, 112b, 122 and address the unicast message independently to each lighting device 112a, 112b, 122. The unicast message may also include a unique identifier for the remote control device 116. Lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 can identify unicast messages delivered to them by recognizing their own unique identifiers and / or their remote counterparts stored in an associated dataset. For example, lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 can each transmit an acknowledgment message to remote control device 116 in response to receiving a unicast message from a remote control device. Lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 can operate according to instructions (e.g., load control instructions) in messages that include their own unique identifiers and / or the unique identifiers of associated devices (such as remote control device 116).

[0044] Messages including commands to move to a certain level can be transmitted as multicast messages via RF signal 106. For example, messages including "on" commands, "off" commands, "toggle" commands, and / or commands to move to a certain level that cause an "on" or "off" event can be transmitted as multicast messages. Additionally, messages including commands to move to a certain level causing lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity significantly can be transmitted as multicast messages. Multicast messages may include group identifiers for controlling lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 that are part of a multicast group. Lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be part of a multicast group when they are associated with the group identifier to identify multicast messages transmitted to that group (e.g., by storing the group identifier thereon). Lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with the group identifier can recognize the multicast message and control the corresponding lighting load according to the commands in the multicast message. Lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 can forward multicast messages with group identifiers for identification and load control by other lighting devices associated with the group identifiers.

[0045] The group may be formed during commissioning or configuration of the load control system 100. When the remote control device 116 is in associated mode (e.g., after selecting one or more buttons), the remote control device 116 may generate a group identifier and send the group identifier to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and / or the system controller (e.g., a central device). The lighting devices storing the group identifier may be part of a group of lighting devices associated with the remote control device 116 and may respond to group messages.

[0046] Because a single message can be transmitted to multiple lighting devices, such as lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122, multicast messages can be transmitted more efficiently from the remote control device 116. Load control instructions in the multicast message can be received and executed simultaneously or nearly simultaneously by multiple lighting devices (such as lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122), where a slight delay occurs due to latency differences when a single message is received at a group of lighting devices within the same wireless range. For example, lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 may not transmit an acknowledgment message to the remote control device 116 in response to receiving a multicast message from the remote control device.

[0047] The wireless communication range of the remote control device 116 can depend on the transmission power of the remote control device 116 and environmental factors in the building where the load control system 100 is installed, such as walls, objects, equipment, and people. The transmission power can be set such that even in the worst-case scenario where environmental factors can cause a reduction or ineffectiveness in the wireless communication range, the remote control device 116 can communicate with an appropriate number of control devices in the space within the building. However, since the remote control device 116 can be a power-conserving control device, the power consumed by the remote control device 116 can decrease as the transmission power increases.

[0048] While the remote control device 116 may be provided as an example of a power-conserving control device, other control devices can also be power-conserving control devices and use similar processes as described herein. Examples of power-conserving control devices may be control devices powered by a limited power source (e.g., a battery). Power-conserving control devices may be connected to an external direct current (DC) supply and can draw less power from a DC power source compared to control devices that can utilize a larger power source such as AC power. Power-conserving control devices may utilize supercapacitors as power sources (e.g., they may have about 5% of the battery capacity). The supercapacitor can be used to power the control device before it is recharged. Power-conserving control devices may be powered from alternative energy sources (e.g., solar cells). Power-conserving control devices can minimize the power drawn from alternative energy sources.

[0049] The remote control device 116 can be characterized by variable (e.g., adaptive) transmission power. For example, the remote control device 116 can have a lower transmission power (e.g., minimum transmission power P). MIN The remote control device 116 transmits (e.g., initially transmits) a message (e.g., a unicast message). If no acknowledgment message in response to the message is received, the remote control device 116 may increase the transmission power and retransmit the message at the increased transmission power. The remote control device 116 may increase the transmission power to multiple intermediate transmission powers and determine whether an acknowledgment message is received at each intermediate transmission power. The remote control device 116 may increase the transmission power to a maximum transmission power P. MAX Furthermore, it can stop retransmitting messages if no acknowledgment message is received at the maximum transmission power.

[0050] Upon receiving an acknowledgment message, the remote control device 116 can store (e.g., learn) the current transmission power used to transmit the previous message. The remote control device 116 can then use the stored transmission power P... STORED Transmit subsequent messages. For example, remote control device 116 can transmit at the stored transmission power P during the current control event. STORED The system transmits messages (e.g., all subsequent messages) and then reverts to minimum transmission power during subsequent control events. Additionally, the remote control device 116 can operate at a stored transmission power P during subsequent control events (e.g., all subsequent control events). STORED Transmit messages. Furthermore, the remote control device 116 can transmit messages at the stored transmission power P during a predetermined number (e.g., four) of subsequent control events. STORED The message is transmitted, and then the transmission power is restored to minimum during subsequent control events.

[0051] The remote control device 116 can dynamically adjust the transmission power based on the type of message being transmitted (e.g., unicast or multicast message) and / or the type of command (e.g., turn on, turn off, move to a certain level, gradual movement, etc.). For example, the remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit at a minimum power P. MIN Transmit unicast messages and at maximum transmission power P MAX Transmit multicast messages. Additionally, the remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit at minimum power P. MIN The transmission includes messages commanding a move to a certain level (e.g., a move to a certain level causing lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity by a relatively small amount) and / or a move at a certain rate. Furthermore, the remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit at maximum power P. MAXThe transmission includes messages such as turn-on commands, turn-off commands, toggle commands, and / or commands that cause the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity to a certain level by a larger amount (e.g., a move-to-level command that results in an "on" event or a "off" event).

[0052] After the remote control device has stored the transmission power used to transmit messages to other control devices, the remote control device can update the stored transmission power P. STORED For example, the remote control device 116 can update the stored transmission power P in response to changes in network conditions. STORED To reduce battery usage at the remote control device 116 and / or increase the likelihood of successful communication (e.g., taking into account changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions between the remote control device 116 and other control devices), the remote control device 116 can update the stored transmission power P used for transmitting communication during the learning process. STORED During the learning process, the remote control device can increase or decrease the learned transmission power P. LEARN To identify the updated transmission power stored at the remote control device.

[0053] The embodiments described herein are not limited to remote control devices. Other control devices may also be used in the same or similar manner. For example, embodiments may include wired control devices and / or plug-in control devices for transmitting messages as described herein.

[0054] Figure 1B An example of a load control system 100 with other devices is shown. For example, the load control system 100 may include other control devices such as a controller device and / or a load control device. The load control device may be able to control the electrical force supplied to a corresponding electrical load based on messages received from the controller device, which may be an input device. The messages may include load control instructions or another indication that causes the load control device to determine load control instructions for controlling the electrical load.

[0055] Examples of load control devices may include motorized curtains 130 and / or lighting fixtures 112a, 112b, 122, but other load control devices may be implemented. Controller devices may include a remote control device 150, an occupancy sensor 160, a daylight sensor 170, and / or a network device 190, but other controller devices may be implemented. Controller devices may perform communication in a configuration similar to that of the remote control device 116 described herein. Load control devices may perform communication in a configuration similar to that of the lighting fixtures 112a, 112b, 122 described herein.

[0056] The load control device can receive messages via a wireless signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) signal 106 (e.g., NFC; BLE, Dedicated communication protocols, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X TM (etc.). The wireless signal can be transmitted by a controller device. In response to a received message, the corresponding lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be turned on and off, and / or the intensity of the corresponding lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be increased or decreased. In response to a received message, the motorized curtain 130 can increase or decrease the level of the covering material 134.

[0057] The battery-powered remote control device 150 may include one or more actuators 152 (e.g., one or more of an on button, off button, raise button, lower button, or preset button). The battery-powered remote control device 150 may transmit an RF signal 106 in response to actuation of one or more of the actuators 152. The battery-powered remote control device 150 may be handheld. The battery-powered remote control device 150 may be mounted vertically to a wall or supported on a base for desktop mounting. Examples of battery-powered remote control devices are described in more detail in co-assigned U.S. Patent No. 8,330,638 entitled "WIRELESS BATTERY POWERED REMOTECONTROL HAVING MULTIPLE MOUNTING MEANS" published on December 11, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0286940 entitled "CONTROL DEVICE HAVING A NIGHTLIGHT" published on November 15, 2012, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0058] The remote control device 150 may be a wireless device capable of controlling a load control device via wireless communication. The remote control device 150 may be attached to or detached from a wall. Examples of remote control devices are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,248,919, entitled "LIGHTING CONTROL DEVICE," published September 28, 1993; U.S. Patent No. 8,471,779, entitled "WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED REMOTE CONTROL WITH LABEL SERVING AS ANTENNA ELEMENT," published June 25, 2013; and U.S. Patent No. 9,679,696, entitled "WIRELESS LOAD CONTROL DEVICE," published June 13, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0059] Occupancy sensor 160 can be configured to detect occupancy and / or vacancy in the space where load control system 100 is installed. Occupancy sensor 160 can transmit a message to the load control device via RF communication signal 106 in response to detecting occupancy or vacancy. Occupancy sensor 160 can also be used as a vacancy sensor, such that a message is transmitted in response to detecting vacancy (e.g., no message may be transmitted in response to detecting occupancy). Occupancy sensor 160 can enter an association mode and can transmit an association message via RF communication signal 106 in response to actuation of a button on occupancy sensor 160. Examples of RF load control systems with occupancy and vacancy sensors are described in more detail in the following U.S. Patent No. 8,009,042, entitled "RADIO FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM WITH OCCUPANCY SENSING," issued August 30, 2011; U.S. Patent No. 8,199,010, entitled "METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CO NFIGURING A WIRELESS SENSOR," issued June 12, 2012; and U.S. Patent No. 8,228,184, entitled "BATTERY-POWERED OCCUPANCY SENSOR," issued July 24, 2012. The entire disclosure of these documents is incorporated herein by reference.

[0060] The daylight sensor 170 can be configured to measure the total light intensity in a space where the load control system 100 is installed. The daylight sensor 170 can transmit a message including the measured light intensity via RF communication signal 106 to control the load control device in response to the measured light intensity. The daylight sensor 170 can enter an association mode and can transmit an association message via RF communication signal 106 in response to actuation of a button on the daylight sensor 170. Examples of RF load control systems with daylight sensors are described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 8,410,706, entitled "METHOD OF CALIBRATING A DAYLIGHT SENSOR," published April 2, 2013; and U.S. Patent No. 8,451,116, entitled "WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED DAYLIGHT SENSOR," published May 28, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0061] An electric blind 130 may be installed in front of a window to control the amount of daylight entering a space equipped with a load control system 100. The electric blind 130 may include, for example, a honeycomb blind, roller blind, canopy, Roman blind, Venetian blind, pleated blind, tensioned roller blind system, or other suitable electric window covering. The electric blind 130 may include a motor drive unit 132 for adjusting the position of the covering material 134 of the electric blind 130 to control the amount of daylight entering the space. The motor drive unit 132 of the electric blind 130 may have an RF receiver and an antenna mounted on or extending from the motor drive unit 132 of the electric blind 130. The motor drive unit 132 may increase or decrease the level of the covering material 134 in response to a message. The motor drive unit 132 of the electric blind 130 may be battery powered or may receive power from an external direct current (DC) power source. Examples of battery-powered motorized blinds are described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 8,950,461 entitled "MOTORIZED WINDOW TREATMENT" published February 10, 2015, and U.S. Patent No. 9,115,537 entitled "BATTERY-POWERED ROLLER SHADE SYSTEM" published August 25, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0062] The messages transmitted by the controller devices may include commands and / or identification information, such as a serial number (e.g., a unique identifier) ​​associated with the transmitting controller device. During the configuration process of the load control system 100, each of the controller devices may be associated with lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and / or motorized curtains 130, such that lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and / or motorized curtains 130 may respond to messages transmitted by the controller devices via RF signal 106. Examples of associating a wireless control device during the configuration process are described in more detail in co-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0111491 entitled "RADIO-FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM" published May 15, 2008, and U.S. Patent No. 9,368,025 entitled "TWO-PART LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM MOUNTABLETO A SINGLE ELECTRICAL WALLBOX" published June 14, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0063] The load control system 100 may include a system controller 180 (e.g., a central unit) configured to communicate with a network 182 (e.g., a wireless or wired local area network (LAN)). For example, the system controller 180 may be connected to a network router (not shown) via a wired digital communication link 184 (e.g., an Ethernet communication link). The network router may allow communication with the network 182, for example, to access the Internet. The system controller 180 may, for example, use wireless technologies (such as…) The system controller 180 is wirelessly connected to network 182 via one or more types of RF communication signals (e.g., RF signal 106) in response to messages received from external devices via network 182. NFC; BLE, honeycomb, Dedicated communication protocols, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X TM The system controller 180 can be configured to transmit and / or receive RF signals 106 (e.g., using...). NFC; BLE or dedicated communication channels, such as CLEAR CONNECT TMCLEARCONNECT TYPE X TM (etc.). The system controller 180 can be configured to transmit messages via network 182 to provide data (e.g., status information) to external devices.

[0064] RF signals 106 can be transmitted via one or more protocols. For example, remote control devices 116 and 150 can transmit via a different protocol than the other devices (e.g., (e.g., BLE) transmits messages to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, occupancy sensor 160, daylight sensor 170, and / or motorized curtain 130 can transmit messages via devices such as CLEAR CONNECT. TM Or CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X TM The system controller 180 communicates via a dedicated communication channel. The system controller 180 can format digital communications using an appropriate protocol for the device. The system controller 180 can communicate using multiple protocols.

[0065] System controller 180 may serve as the central controller of load control system 100 and / or relay messages between control devices of the load control system (e.g., lighting devices, motorized curtains, etc.) and network 182. System controller 180 may receive messages from controller devices and configure the messages for transmission to load control devices. For example, system controller 180 may configure multicast and / or unicast messages for transmission, as described herein. System controller 180 may be located locally within load control system 100 or at a remote location. Although system controller 180 is shown as a single device, load control system 100 may include multiple hubs and / or its functionality may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0066] The load control system 100 may include a network device 190, such as a smartphone (e.g., Smartphone Smartphone or Smartphones), personal computers, laptops, wireless media devices (e.g., MP3 players, gaming devices, or televisions), tablet devices (e.g., Handheld computing devices) This could be a television set with wireless communication capabilities, or any other suitable network communication or Internet Protocol-enabled device. Network device 190 may be operable to transmit messages to system controller 180 directly or via network 182 via RF signal 108 in one or more Internet Protocol packets. For example, network device 190 may be able to... Communication links Communication links A communication link, near field communication (NFC) link, cellular communication link, television blank space (TVWS) communication link, or any combination thereof, transmits RF signal 108 to system controller 180. RF signal 108 may be transmitted using a different protocol and / or wireless frequency band than RF signal 106. For example, RF signal 108 may be configured for... Communication or cellular communication, and the RF signal 106 can be configured for... BLE, Or dedicated communication channels, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM Or CLEARCONNECT TYPE X TM In another example, RF signal 108 and RF signal 106 may be the same. An example of a load control system capable of operating to communicate with network devices on a network is described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,271,407, entitled LOAD CONTROL DEVICE HAVING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY, published April 23, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] Network device 190 may include a visual display 192. The visual display 192 may include a touchscreen, which may include, for example, a capacitive touchpad displaced on the visual display, allowing the visual display to display soft buttons that can be actuated by a user. In addition to the visual display 192, network device 190 may also include a plurality of hard buttons, such as physical buttons (not shown). Network device 190 may download a product control application to allow users of network device 190 to control load control system 100. In response to actuation of the displayed soft and / or hard buttons, network device 190 may transmit messages to load control devices and / or system controller 180 via the wireless communications described herein.

[0068] The operation of the load control system 100 can be programmed and configured using the system controller 180 and / or the network device 190. An example of a configuration process for a wireless load control system is described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,027,127, entitled "COMMISSIONING LOAD CONTROL SYSTEMS," published July 17, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] Lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 may each be included in a group of lighting devices associated with a common control device such as remote control device 116. For example, each of lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 may store a unique identifier of remote control device 116 during association mode, enabling control of lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 via messages including control commands from remote control device 116. System controller 180 may store the association between each of lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 and remote control device 116 during association mode. Association information may be used by system controller 180 to route messages to lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122, or lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 may receive messages directly from remote control device 116.

[0070] Remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit messages to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 via system controller 180. For example, remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit unicast messages to system controller 180. System controller 180 may be configured to transmit an acknowledgment message to remote control device 116 in response to receiving a unicast message from remote control device 116. System controller 180 may be configured to transmit unicast and / or multicast messages to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 in response to a unicast message received from remote control device 116 to control the lighting devices. For example, remote control device 116 may transmit messages including switching commands or on / off commands (e.g., "on" command or "off" command) to control lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to switch lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 from an "on" state to an "off" state or vice versa. The remote control device 116 can transmit unicast messages, including switching commands or on / off commands, to the system controller 180, which can transmit multicast messages received at each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122. Additionally, the remote control device 116 can transmit unicast messages, including commands to move to a certain level or move at a certain rate, to the system controller 180, which can transmit unicast messages independently directed to each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122.

[0071] System controller 180 can be used as a parent device (e.g., a master device) and can be configured to monitor the status of child devices (e.g., slave devices) such as lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, and determine the appropriate commands to be transmitted in response to user interface events based on the status of the slave devices. Although system controller 180 may be described herein as a master device for controlling a group of lighting devices, other control devices (e.g., one of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, remote control device 150, occupancy sensor 160, daylight sensor 170, network device 190, motorized curtain 132, telecomputing device, etc.) may be assigned as master devices operating as described herein with respect to system controller 180. When lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are assigned as master devices, lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 may already know their own status but can monitor the status of other slave devices. Although other devices can act as master devices, they can still communicate via system controller 180.

[0072] System controller 180 can track the on / off state of each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 after implementation in load control system 100. After initial implementation in load control system, system controller 180 can query the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 for their current on / off state. The query message can be sent to each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 as a multicast message or a separate unicast message. The lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 can return their current on / off state, which can be stored locally thereon. System controller 180 can recognize commands transmitted to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 and maintain their current on / off states in memory. Messages transmitted to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 for controlling their on / off states can be monitored to determine the current on / off state without sending an initial query message. The system controller 180 can be continuously powered and / or woken up (e.g., when the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 are also powered), enabling the system controller to monitor the status of the lighting devices by listening to messages transmitted by the lighting devices. Additionally, the system controller 180 can enter a sleep mode and periodically wake up to transmit query messages to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 to determine the on / off status of the lighting devices.

[0073] When system controller 180 receives an indication of a switching event from remote control device 116, system controller 180 can choose to send a command to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 or not send a command. The decision at system controller 180 can be based on the current on / off state of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. System controller 180 can identify whether the on / off states of a group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are consistent. If the on / off states of a group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are consistent, system controller 180 can send a switching command, or an "on" command, or an "off" command to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to switch the on / off state of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0074] Lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 that change their on / off state in response to an "on" or "off" command may send a status update message to system controller 180 to indicate the change in on / off state. System controller 180 may receive status update messages from lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122 that change their state in response to a received "on" or "off" command. Lighting devices that fail to change their on / off state in response to a command from system controller 180 may be unresponsive. For example, system controller 180 may send an "off" command to lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122, and lighting device 122 may update its on / off state to "off". Lighting device 122 may send a response message to system controller 180 to indicate the change in state. System controller 180 may store the updated state and / or acknowledge the state of unresponsive devices. Alternatively, the system controller 180 may store the updated state of the lighting device 122 after sending the command. Since the system controller 180 can maintain the on / off state of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, and 122, the remote control device 116 may go to sleep after transmitting a message in response to a switching event.

[0075] As previously mentioned, the remote control device 116 can be characterized by adaptive transmission power. The remote control device 116 can be configured to adjust the transmission power based on whether an acknowledgment message is received from a parent device (e.g., system controller 180). For example, the remote control device 116 can use a lower transmission power (e.g., minimum transmission power P). MINThe remote control device 116 transmits (e.g., initially) a message (e.g., a unicast message) to the system controller 180. If no acknowledgment message in response to the message is received from the system controller 180, the remote control device 116 may increase the transmission power and transmit the message again to the system controller 180 at the increased transmission power. The remote control device 116 may increase the transmission power to multiple intermediate transmission powers and determine whether an acknowledgment message is received from the system controller 180 at each intermediate transmission power. The remote control device 116 may increase the transmission power to a maximum transmission power P. MAX Furthermore, if no acknowledgment message is received at the maximum transmission power, the retransmission of messages to the system controller 180 can be stopped.

[0076] When system controller 180 receives a message from remote control device 116 (e.g., at one of the transmission powers), the system controller may, in response to the message transmitted by remote control device 116, transmit one or more messages (e.g., unicast and / or multicast messages) to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 for controlling the lighting devices. For example, since system controller 180 can be powered from an external power source (e.g., not battery powered), system controller 180 may transmit messages to lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 at a central transmission power (e.g., static maximum or nominal central transmission power). When system controller 180 receives a message from remote control device 116, system controller 180 may also transmit an acknowledgment message to remote control device 116.

[0077] Upon receiving an acknowledgment message from system controller 180, remote control device 116 may store (e.g., learn) the current transmission power used to transmit the previous message. Remote control device 116 can then use the stored transmission power P... STORED Transmit subsequent messages. For example, remote control device 116 can transmit at the stored transmission power P during the current control event. STORED The system transmits messages (e.g., all subsequent messages) and then reverts to minimum transmission power during subsequent control events. Additionally, the remote control device 116 can operate at a stored transmission power P during subsequent control events (e.g., all subsequent control events). STORED Transmit messages. Furthermore, the remote control device 116 can transmit messages at the stored transmission power P during a predetermined number (e.g., four) of subsequent control events. STORED The message is transmitted, and then the transmission power is restored to minimum during subsequent control events.

[0078] The remote control device 116 can dynamically adjust its transmission power based on the type of command transmitted to the system controller 180 (e.g., turn on, turn off, move to a certain level, gradual movement, etc.). For example, the remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit at a minimum power P. MIN The system controller 180 transmits messages including commands to move to a certain level (e.g., commands causing lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity by a relatively small amount to move to a certain level) and / or commands to move at a certain rate. The system controller 180 may be configured to individually transmit unicast messages for controlling the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to each other in response to messages received from the remote control device 116 (e.g., when the commands are commands causing lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity by a relatively small amount to move at a certain rate and / or commands to move to a certain level). Additionally, the remote control device 116 may be configured to transmit at maximum transmission power P. MAX The system controller 180 transmits messages including on commands, off commands, toggle commands, and / or commands that cause lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity by a relatively large amount to a certain level (e.g., a move-to-level command that results in an "on" event or an "off" event). The system controller 180 may be configured to transmit multicast messages for controlling the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 in response to messages received from the remote control device 116 (e.g., when the commands are on commands, off commands, toggle commands, and / or commands that cause lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to adjust their intensity by a relatively large amount to a certain level).

[0079] After the remote control device has stored the transmission power used to transmit messages to the system controller, the remote control device can update the stored transmission power P. STORED For example, the remote control device 116 can update the stored transmission power P in response to changes in network conditions. STORED To reduce battery usage at the remote control device 116 and / or increase the likelihood of successful communication with the system controller 180 (e.g., taking into account changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions between the remote control device and the system controller). The remote control device 116 can update the stored transmission power P used for communication transmission during the learning process. STORED During the learning process, the remote control device 116 can increase or decrease the learned transmission power P. LEARN To identify the updated transmission power stored at the remote control device 116.

[0080] Figure 2A and Figure 2BThis is a sequence diagram depicting an exemplary message flow for transmitting messages between a remote control device 202 (e.g., remote control device 116), lighting devices 204a, 204b (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122), and a system controller 206 (e.g., system controller 180) in a load control system (e.g., load control system 100). The remote control device 202 may be a child device of the system controller 206, which can operate as a parent device. The remote control device 202 may include a limited power supply (e.g., it may be battery powered). Furthermore, the distance, interference, and / or channel quality between the remote control device 202 and the system controller 206 and / or the lighting devices 204a, 204b may vary over time. User input (e.g., user interactions, such as rotation of rotating parts and / or actuation of actuated parts) may be detected asynchronously (e.g., not at regular intervals). Therefore, the remote control device 202 may not be able to predict when user input will be detected and / or when preparations will be made for an upcoming message transmission (e.g., taking into account changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions). To conserve available power in a limited power supply and / or increase the likelihood of receiving messages transmitted from the remote control device 202, adaptive transmission power may be implemented for the messages transmitted from the remote control device 202. This adaptive transmission power may be a variable transmission power or a transmission power otherwise adapted as described herein.

[0081] Figure 2A This is a sequence diagram depicting an exemplary message flow used to transmit messages with adaptive transmission power. For example... Figure 2A As shown, remote control device 202 can detect user input at 210, such as rotation of the rotating portion 203 of remote control device 202 (e.g., the rotating portion 118 of remote control device 116). Rotation of the rotating portion 203 (e.g., clockwise rotation) can indicate an increase command, which can result in the transmission of one or more messages to increase the illumination level of lighting devices 204a, 204b. Rotation of the rotating portion 203 (e.g., counterclockwise rotation) can indicate a decrease command, which can result in the transmission of one or more messages to decrease the illumination level of lighting devices 204a, 204b. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the remote control device 202 can transmit messages to switch the on / off state of the lighting devices 204a and 204b and / or raise / lower the lighting level of the lighting devices.

[0082] like Figure 2AAs illustrated, message transmission power can be increased over a period of time. Message transmission power can be increased after a predefined period has elapsed. Transmission power can be increased a predefined number of times, or until one or more messages are transmitted at a threshold transmission power. Transmission power can be increased when an acknowledgment message responding to a previous message is not received within a predefined period. As described herein, increasing message transmission power increases the likelihood of successful communication from remote control device 202 to the corresponding device (e.g., system controller 206 and / or lighting devices 204a, 204b).

[0083] At 212, the remote control device 202 can transmit an increase command to the system controller 206 at a certain transmission power (e.g., transmission power level). The transmission power may be based on the command. The command may include command types on which the transmission power can be based. Command types may include on commands, off commands, toggle commands, increase commands, decrease commands, the amount of increase / decrease, the level to which to turn, the command to move to a certain level, the command to move to a certain level at a certain rate, a gradual movement command, a preset command, or another command type. Command types may be distinguished according to the relative amount of change in the intensity of the lighting devices 204a, 204b they cause. For example, an increase / decrease command may be defined as a command type that causes a relatively small change in the intensity of the lighting devices 204a, 204b compared to an on / off command or a toggle command. An increase / decrease command or another command indicating the level to which a position is to be moved (e.g., a move-to-level-at-a-rate command, a gradual move command, a preset command, or another command type) may result in a change level greater than a threshold change if the change is greater than a predefined intensity change (e.g., a change of 25%, 50%, or 75% of the intensity at the lighting load). Conversely, an increase / decrease command or another command indicating the level to which a position is to be moved (e.g., a move-to-level-at-a-rate command, a gradual move command, a preset command, or another command type) may result in a change level less than a threshold change if the change is less than a predefined intensity change (e.g., a change of 25%, 50%, or 75% of the intensity at the lighting load).

[0084] Commands that result in relatively small changes in the intensity of lighting devices 204a, 204b compared to other commands can initially be transmitted at an initial transmission power (e.g., an increase command and / or a decrease command). The initial transmission power can be the minimum transmission power P. MIN Minimum transmission power P MIN This could be the minimum transmission power of the device or the minimum transmission power of a series of messages transmitted over a period of time. For example, the minimum transmission power P MIN It can be a low value (e.g., -5dB).

[0085] The transmission power of messages used to transmit commands can be increased over a period of time. For example, the transmission power of a message can be increased after a predefined period (e.g., in the event that an acknowledgment message for the command is not received). See also Figure 2A The system controller 206 can be configured to transmit an acknowledgment message in response to receiving a message including a command from the remote control device 202. However, at 212, the remote control device 202 may not receive the acknowledgment message for the initial command transmitted in the message (e.g., because the system controller may fail to receive the message), which could be attributed to the transmission power of the initial message.

[0086] At 214, the remote control device 202 can increase the transmission power, and at 216, transmit subsequent rise commands with the increased transmission power. The transmission power of the message transmitted at 216 can be an intermediate level transmission power P. MID (For example, intermediate transmission power). Transmission power P MID It can be compared to the transmission power P MIN Higher transmission power (e.g., greater than -5 dB) increases the likelihood that system controller 206 will receive the raise command transmitted in the message at 216. Remote control device 202 may fail to receive an acknowledgment message for the second raise command transmitted at 216 after a predefined period. For example, system controller 206 may fail to receive the raise command transmitted at 212 and / or 216 due to interference within the load control system and / or insufficient transmission power of the corresponding raise command (e.g., the transmission power of the command is not high enough to reach system controller 206 due to the relative position of remote control device 202).

[0087] The remote control device 202 can be configured to transmit subsequent commands at a higher transmission power until, for example, an acknowledgment message is received or the device's maximum transmission power or the maximum transmission power of a series of communications transmitted from the device is reached. See also Figure 2A The remote control device 202 can increase the transmission power at 218 and transmit the elevation command in the message at 220 with the increased transmission power. The increased transmission power of the message transmitted at 220 can be the maximum transmission power P. MAX Maximum transmission power P MAX This could be the maximum transmission power supported by the remote control device 202 and / or the maximum transmission power of a series of messages transmitted over a period of time. For example, the maximum transmission power P MAXThis can be a value with a higher transmission power than other messages (e.g., +14 dB). At 222, remote control device 202 can receive from system controller 206 an acknowledgment message indicating that an elevation command transmitted at 216 has been received. System controller 206 can then transmit messages (e.g., unicast messages) at 224 and 226, respectively, to lighting devices 204a and 204b based on the elevation command received at 220, including a command to move to a certain level.

[0088] Although Figure 2A It is illustrated as including three different transmission powers (e.g., P). MIN P MID and P MAX ), but Figure 2A The examples illustrated can include any number (e.g., more or less three) of different transmission powers. Similarly, the transmission power used for a particular transmission can include any transmission power value. Therefore, although an increase command is used and a specific transmission power (e.g., P) is indicated... MIN P MID and P MAX However, other types of commands and / or power transmission can be implemented. Additionally, although... Figure 2A The other examples herein provide examples of remote control devices and / or lighting devices that can be implemented using the processes described herein, but other control devices can be implemented similarly. For example, motorized curtains 130, occupancy sensors 160, daylight sensors 170, network devices 190, and / or other devices can be power-saving control devices that can operate as described with respect to remote control device 202, for the purpose of saving power during message transmission. Each of these devices or other devices in the load control system can communicate with a parent device or other device in the load control system using the processes described herein.

[0089] Figure 2BThis is a sequence diagram depicting an exemplary message flow for transmitting messages with adaptive transmission power, for example, based on command type. Remote control device 202 may detect user input at 250, such as actuation of actuation portion 205 of remote control device 202 (e.g., actuation portion 117 of remote control device 116). Actuation of actuation portion 205 may instruct a switching command, which may result in the transmission of one or more messages to switch the state of lighting devices 204a, 204b. Additionally, actuation of actuation portion 205 may instruct an on command (e.g., turning on lighting devices 204a, 204b) and / or an off command (e.g., turning off lighting devices 204a, 204b). As described herein, actuation of actuation portion 205 may be detected asynchronously (e.g., may be detected without notification and / or may be detected at regular intervals), and remote control device 202 may not be able to predict when user input is detected and / or prepare for an upcoming message transmission (e.g., considering changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions).

[0090] Messages with specific commands can be transmitted at a predetermined transmission power, which increases the likelihood of receiving the message. For example, a command to change the illumination level of a corresponding lighting device (e.g., one or more of lighting devices 204a, 204b) by a significant amount (e.g., an amount exceeding a threshold) can be transmitted at a predetermined transmission power, increasing the likelihood of receiving the message. A switching command can be a command transmitted at a predetermined transmission power to increase the likelihood of receiving the switching command (e.g., because a switching command typically causes a change in the illumination level of the lighting device by an amount exceeding a threshold). For example, when a switching command is not received, the lighting devices may become unsynchronized, and the effects can be significant. Similarly, other commands such as turn-on commands, turn-off commands, and / or commands to move the illumination intensity level of the lighting device to a certain level by an amount exceeding a threshold (e.g., 5% to 95%) can be transmitted at a predetermined transmission power to increase the likelihood of receiving said commands.

[0091] After detecting actuation of the actuating part 205 at 250, the remote control device 202 can set the transmission power to a predetermined transmission power, such as the maximum transmission power P. MAX At position 254, the remote control device 202 can transmit a maximum power P. MAX Transmit a message indicating a switching command to system controller 206. Maximum transmission power P MAXThis could be the maximum transmission power of the device or the maximum transmission power of a series of messages transmitted over a period of time. At 256, in response to receiving a switching command transmitted at 254, system controller 206 may transmit an acknowledgment message to remote control device 202. The acknowledgment message transmitted at 256 may indicate that the message transmitted at 254 has been received. At 258, system controller 206 may transmit a message (e.g., a multicast message) including a switching command to lighting devices 204a and 204b, which may cause lighting devices 204a and 204b to switch their states. After receiving the message transmitted at 256, lighting devices 204a and 204b may switch from their initial on state to off state.

[0092] Control devices (e.g., remote control device 116, motorized curtain 130, remote control device 150, occupancy sensor 160, daylight sensor 170, network device 190, and / or remote control device 202) can transmit messages at a certain transmission power based on the command type transmitted in the message. Transmission based on command type allows messages to be transmitted at higher power levels for messages with greater importance or that may cause more noticeable changes for the user, and / or at lower power levels for lower priority messages or messages that may cause less noticeable changes for the user. Figure 3A This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process 300 for transmitting messages from control devices in a load control system using adaptive transmission power that changes based on the type of command transmitted in the message. Process 300 can be performed by a power-conserving control device such as a control unit (e.g., remote control device 116, motorized curtain 130, remote control device 150, occupancy sensor 160, daylight sensor 170, network device 190, and / or remote control device 202) powered by a limited power source. As described herein, the control device can be configured to transmit commands in a manner that conserves limited power. For example, as illustrated in process 300, the control device can determine the transmission power for a given command based on the command type. Process 300 can be performed asynchronously, for example, in response to user input (e.g., rotation of a rotating part and / or actuation of an actuated part), and can take into account unknown message transmission conditions (e.g., variations in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions). For example, the process 300 may be executed by remote control devices 116, 202 to transmit messages to a parent device (e.g., system controllers 180, 206), the messages of which may include commands for controlling one or more load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b).

[0093] At 302, the control device can determine commands from multiple command types based on user input. These multiple command types may include on commands, off commands, toggle commands, increase commands, decrease commands, increase / decrease amounts, switch to a specific level, move to a certain level, move to a certain level at a certain rate, gradual movement commands, and / or preset commands. The command types may include different commands that change the lighting level of the lighting device by different amounts. At 304, the control device can determine whether the command causes a change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than a threshold. For example, a command that changes the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than a threshold may include an on command, an off command, a toggle command, an increase command that increases the lighting level by an amount greater than a threshold, a decrease command that decreases the lighting level by an amount greater than a threshold, and / or a move to a certain level command that adjusts the lighting level by an amount greater than a threshold. As described herein, the command that changes the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than a threshold may initially be transmitted at a transmission power P1 that increases the likelihood of receiving a message. The transmission power P1 may be a larger transmission power than another transmission power P2 that can save more battery power per transmission. For example, the transmission power P1 can be the maximum transmission power P used for transmission from the control device. MAX Or another transmission power greater than the transmission power P2. If it is determined at 304 that the command is to change the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than a threshold, a message including the command can be transmitted at 306 at the maximum transmission power P1, which increases the likelihood of receiving the command message after transmission.

[0094] However, if the command is determined to be an adjustment of the lighting intensity level to an amount less than (e.g., less than or equal to) a threshold, the control device can transmit a message including the command at 308 with transmission power P2. For example, a command to change the lighting intensity level by an amount less than a threshold may include an increase command to raise the lighting level by an amount less than a threshold, a decrease command to lower the lighting level by an amount less than a threshold, and / or a move command to a certain level to adjust the lighting level by an amount less than a threshold. Transmission power P2 can be a lower transmission power than transmission power P1, and can save more power used for transmission at the control device. For example, transmission power P2 can be the minimum transmission power P used to transmit messages from the control device. MIN Transmitting messages using transmission power P2 can save the limited power supply of the control device executing process 300. Although in Figure 3A The process 300 shown illustrates two transmission powers for sending a message based on the threshold variation in the command type, but another number of transmission powers based on different command types can be used to transmit the message. For example, three or more different command types with different thresholds can be defined in the transmitted commands based on different lighting intensity levels or scenarios, and different transmission powers can be used for different lighting intensity levels or scenarios.

[0095] Figure 3B This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process 320 for transmitting messages from control devices in a load control system using adaptive transmission power. Process 320 can be performed by a control device that is a power-conserving control device (e.g., powered by a limited power source, such as remote control device 116, motorized curtain 130, remote control device 150, occupancy sensor 160, daylight sensor 170, network device 190, and / or remote control device 202). As described herein, the device can be configured to transmit commands in a manner that conserves limited power. Process 320 can be performed asynchronously, for example, in response to user input (e.g., rotation of a rotating part and / or actuation of an actuated part), and can take into account unknown message transmission conditions (e.g., changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions). For example, process 320 can be performed by remote control devices 116, 202 to transmit messages to a parent device or device, the messages including commands for controlling one or more load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b). The parent device of the control device can be one of the system controllers 180, 206, lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b, or another control device in the load control system.

[0096] like Figure 3B As shown, the control device can initially respond to a triggering event with an initial transmission power P. INIT (For example, minimum transmission power P) MIN The transmission includes a message containing commands. The triggering event can be an asynchronous event, such as user input (e.g., rotation of a rotating part and / or actuation of an actuated part). For sensors, the triggering event can be triggered by sensor information (e.g., the threshold sunlight level of a daylight sensor, the occupancy or vacancy status of an occupied sensor, or another type of sensor information that could lead to the triggering of a message). At 322 with an initial transmission power P INIT (For example, minimum transmission power P) MIN After transmitting the message, the control device can determine at point 324 whether an acknowledgment message has been received at point 324. If an acknowledgment message is received at point 324, process 320 can end. The acknowledgment message indicates that the receiving device has received the command transmitted in the message, and the message can be transmitted with lower transmission power to save power at the control device.

[0097] If an acknowledgment message is not received at 324, the control device may determine at 326 whether a timeout has occurred. The timeout may include the period during which the control device can wait to receive an acknowledgment message. If a timeout does not occur at 326, the control device may continue waiting for an acknowledgment message at 324. After the timeout (e.g., after a period of time has elapsed since the message was transmitted at 360), the control device may determine at 328 whether to transmit at maximum power P. MAX Transmit previously transmitted commands. If the transmission power of the previously transmitted message is not the maximum transmission power P. MAX Then, the transmission power can be increased at 330, and the message including the command can be transmitted at 332 with the increased transmission power. As described herein, increasing the transmission power increases the likelihood of receiving the message. By initially transmitting the message with a lower transmission power, the control device can attempt to conserve the power available for message transmission. The control device can adjust the transmission power by increasing it in an attempt to receive an acknowledgment message indicating that the message has been received.

[0098] If the transmission power of the previously transmitted message is at the maximum transmission power P MAX An error condition can then be logged at point 334. An error condition logged at point 334 indicates that another device (e.g., a parent device) has failed to receive a command. The control device can transmit error messages to another device in the system (e.g., the parent device, a user's network device, or another device). Although Figure 3B Process 320 is illustrated with specific steps in a particular order, but the control device may perform the steps or a subset thereof in other combinations or orders.

[0099] The control device can execute process 320 for each message transmission in an attempt to minimize the power transmitted for transmitting messages from the control device. This process 320 can save memory storage at the control device and / or allow the control device to transmit each message at the minimum transmission power required to receive the message. However, due to the minimum transmission power P for each message transmission... MIN Initially, the control unit may introduce a delay, which can lead to a delay in the receiving device capable of executing commands. As described herein, this delay can be balanced with battery power conservation.

[0100] Figure 3CThis is another flowchart depicting an exemplary process 350 for transmitting messages from control devices in a load control system using adaptive transmission power. Process 350 may be executed by a control device that is a power-conserving control device (e.g., powered by a limited power source, such as remote control device 116 and / or remote control device 202). As described herein, the device may be configured to transmit commands in a manner that conserves limited power. Process 350 may be executed asynchronously, for example, in response to user input (e.g., rotation of a rotating part and / or actuation of an actuated part), and may take into account unknown message transmission conditions (e.g., changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions). For example, process 350 may be executed by remote control devices 116, 202 to transmit messages to a parent device or device, the messages including commands for controlling one or more load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b). The parent device of the control device can be one of the system controllers 180, 206, lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b, or another control device in the load control system.

[0101] At point 352, the control device can determine whether a command causes a change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than a threshold. This determination may be based on the command type. For example, command types that change the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than a threshold may include an on command, an off command, a toggle command, an increase command that increases the lighting level by an amount greater than a threshold, a decrease command that decreases the lighting level by an amount greater than a threshold, and / or a move command that adjusts the lighting level by an amount greater than a threshold to a certain level. As described herein, a transmission power (e.g., the maximum transmission power P of the control device) may initially be used to increase the likelihood of receiving a message. MAX The command is transmitted to change the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than a threshold. If it is determined that the command is to change the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than the threshold, then the maximum transmission power P can be used at 354. MAX The transmission includes a message containing the command, which increases the likelihood of receiving the command message after a single transmission. Maximum transmission power P MAX It can be the maximum transmission power of the device or the maximum transmission power of a series of messages transmitted over a period of time.

[0102] However, if the command is determined to be an adjustment of the lighting intensity level to an amount less than (e.g., less than or equal to) a threshold, the control device can determine whether it previously stored the transmission power (e.g., the stored transmission power P) used to successfully transmit a message to another device (e.g., a parent device). STORED If the control device has the stored transmission power P at 356. STORED Then the control device can use the stored transmission power P at 358.STORED The transmission includes commands. If the control device does not have the stored transmission power P... STORED Then the control device can be at 360 with the initial transmission power (e.g., the minimum transmission power P of the control device). MIN Transmitting messages including commands. Transmitting messages with minimal transmission power conserves the limited power of the control unit executing process 350. Minimum transmission power P MIN It can be the minimum transmission power of the device or the minimum transmission power of a series of messages transmitted over a period of time.

[0103] At 362, the control device can determine whether an acknowledgment message has been received, indicating whether the message including the command transmitted at 360 has been received by another device (e.g., a parent device). If an acknowledgment message is received at 362, the current transmission power can be stored at 364. The transmission power stored at 364 (e.g., the stored transmission power P) can be used at a subsequent call to process 350 (e.g., at 358). STORED The stored transmission power P STORED This could be transmission power that increases the likelihood of receiving a message. At 362, if no acknowledgment message is received, the control device can determine at 366 whether a timeout has occurred. The timeout may include the period during which the control device can wait to receive an acknowledgment message. Furthermore, after the timeout (e.g., after a period of time has elapsed since the message was transmitted at 360), the control device can determine that another device (e.g., a parent device) has not received the message.

[0104] At point 368, the control device can determine whether the current transmission power is the maximum transmission power P. MAX If the transmission power is not the maximum transmission power P MAX Then, the transmission power can be increased at 370, and the message including the command can be transmitted at 372 with the increased transmission power. As described herein, increasing the transmission power increases the likelihood of receiving the message. However, if the transmission power of the command message is at the maximum transmission power P... MAX An error condition can be recorded at point 374. The error condition recorded at 374 may indicate that another device (e.g., a parent device) failed to receive a command; and / or another device (e.g., a parent device) cannot receive communication from the control device executing process 350. The control device may transmit the error message to another device in the system (e.g., a parent device, a user's network device, or another device). At 374, the control device may restore the transmission power to the initially stored transmission power P. STORED And / or wait for an updated learning process or other configuration from another device in the system (e.g., a parent device, a user's network device, or another device). Although Figure 3CProcess 350 is illustrated with specific steps in a particular order, but the control device may perform the steps or subsets thereof in other combinations or orders.

[0105] After the remote device has stored the transmission power used to transmit messages to other control devices (e.g., a parent device), the control device can update the stored transmission power P. STORED For example, the control device can update the stored transmission power P in response to changes in network conditions. STORED To reduce battery usage at the control unit and / or increase the likelihood of successful communication (e.g., taking into account changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions between the control unit and other control units). The control unit may update the stored transmission power P during a learning process for learning the updated transmission power used for transmitting messages. STORED .

[0106] Figure 4A This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process 400 for learning the transmission power used to transmit messages from a control device in a load control system. Process 400 can be performed by a control device powered by a limited power source (e.g., remote control device 116 and / or remote control device 202). As described herein, the device can be configured to transmit messages in a manner that conserves limited power. The executable process 400 updates the stored transmission power P at the control device by implementing a learning process. STORED For example, process 400 can be executed to allow the control device to learn lower transmission power to reduce power consumption at the control device, or to allow the control device to learn increased transmission power to improve communication with other devices. Process 400 can be executed by remote control devices 116, 202 to learn updated transmission power for transmitting messages including commands for controlling one or more load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b).

[0107] At point 401, the control device can trigger the learning process. This can be done using the previously learned data and the stored transmission power P. STORED The learning process is triggered at 401 after a predefined period following the start of a previous storage event or another triggering event during that period. The learning process can be triggered at 401 to allow the control device to update the previously stored transmission power P. STOREDThis is used for message transmission. The learning process can be triggered asynchronously at 401, for example, in response to user input (e.g., user interaction, such as rotation of a rotating part and / or actuation of an actuating part), and unknown message transmission conditions (e.g., changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions) can be taken into account. For sensors, the triggering event can be triggered by sensor information (e.g., the threshold sunlight level of a daylight sensor, the occupancy or vacancy status of an occupied sensor, or another type of sensor information that could lead to message triggering). The learning process can be triggered at 401 in response to changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions on the network. For example, the control device can trigger at 401 by detecting a change in the stored transmission power P. STORED The failure of acknowledgment messages for one or more messages transmitted to other devices is used to detect changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions. Message communication conditions can be unknown and / or change over time. This can be a result of changes in the network and / or environment and / or the movement of control devices (e.g., not being fixed in a specific location). For example, moving a control device closer to a given load control device can improve message communication conditions and / or allow the control device to reduce message transmission power to another device (e.g., a parent device).

[0108] The control device can determine the test transmission power P at 402. TEST The test transmission power P can be used. TEST Set a limited transmission power to learn whether to adjust the message transmission power at the control device. The test transmission power P can be set. TEST Set to the previously stored transmission power P STORED In order to determine whether the previously stored transmission power P should be adjusted. STORED This aims to increase the likelihood of receiving messages at other devices (e.g., a parent device or other devices) or improve battery consumption during message transmission. The test transmission power P can be used to measure this. TEST The test transmission power is set to another defined transmission power, and then increased or decreased to identify the transmission power used to receive messages at another device. For example, the test transmission power P can be... TEST Set to the maximum transmission power P used for transmitting messages from the control device. MAX And it can be reduced. In another example, the test transmission power P can be... TEST The minimum transmission power P is set for transmitting messages from the control device. MIN And it can be increased.

[0109] The test transmission power P can be adjusted based on the type of command transmitted. TESTDifferent transmission powers are set because different power levels can transmit different command types. For example, power P1 can be used to transmit a command that changes the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than a threshold. Power P2 can be used to transmit a command that changes the lighting intensity level by an amount less than (e.g., less than or equal to) a threshold. While two transmission powers are provided as examples, additional transmission powers can be learned for different command types.

[0110] At point 403, the control device can use the test transmission power P TEST To transmit messages. At 405, the control device can determine whether to adjust the test transmission power P. TEST For example, if the control device receives a response to test the transmission power P TEST (For example, the maximum transmission power P used for testing) MAX A relatively high transmission power P1 or a previously stored transmission power P STORED If the control device receives a confirmation message for the transmitted message, it can determine whether to test the transmission power P. TEST Adjust to a lower transmission power. If the control device fails to receive a response to the test transmission power P TEST (For example, the minimum transmission power P used for testing) MIN A relatively low transmission power P2 or a previously stored transmission power P STORED If the control device receives a confirmation message for the transmitted message, it can determine whether to test the transmission power P. TEST Adjust to higher transmission power.

[0111] The control device can adjust the test transmission power P at point 404. TEST For example, the control device can test the transmission power P. TEST The power is reduced until an acknowledgment message is not received before a timeout occurs. The control device can then store the device's transmission power at 406 as the transmission power used to receive the previous acknowledgment message. The control device can increase the test transmission power P. TEST This continues until an acknowledgment message is received before a timeout occurs. The control device can then store the device's transmission power at 406 as the transmission power used to receive the first acknowledgment message. Adjust the transmission power P. TEST This allows the control device to learn to transmit messages and allows the receiving device to receive the messages with lower transmission power, which can reduce battery usage at the control device and / or increase the likelihood of successful communication in response to changes in network conditions (e.g., taking into account changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions between the control device and other control devices).

[0112] Process 400 or a portion thereof can be executed once or multiple times to learn the transmission power used for transmitting messages. For example, the control device can (e.g., at 403) test the transmission power P before adjusting the test transmission power. TEST A series of messages are transmitted. The control device can set the transmission power for transmitting messages based on a predefined number or time percentage of acknowledgment messages received in response to a series of messages transmitted at the transmission power. The control device can also, or alternatively, compare the number or percentage of acknowledgment messages received at one transmission level with the number or percentage of acknowledgment messages received at another transmission level in order to select the transmission level to use for transmitting future messages.

[0113] Figure 4B This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary process 410 for learning the transmission power used to transmit messages from a control device in a load control system. Process 410 can be performed by a power-conserving control device (e.g., powered by a limited power source, such as remote control device 116 and / or remote control device 202). As described herein, the device can be configured to transmit messages in a manner that conserves limited power. The executable process 410 updates the stored transmission power P at the control device by implementing a learning process. STORED For example, process 410 can be executed to allow the control device to learn lower transmission power to reduce power consumption at the control device, or to allow the control device to learn increased transmission power to improve communication with other devices. Process 410 can be executed by remote control devices 116, 202 to learn updated transmission power for transmitting messages including commands for controlling one or more load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b).

[0114] At 412, the control device can trigger a learning process. The learning process can be triggered at 412 after a predefined period following the last execution of process 400, the last stored transmission power, or another defined event, allowing the control device to update the previously stored transmission power P used for message transmission. STORED The learning process can be triggered asynchronously at 412, for example, in response to user input (e.g., user interaction, such as rotation of the rotating part and / or actuation of the actuated part), and unknown message transmission conditions (e.g., changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions) can be taken into account.

[0115] The learning process can be triggered at 412 in response to changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions on the network. For example, the control device can trigger the learning process at 412 by detecting changes in the stored transmission power P. STOREDThe failure of acknowledgment messages for one or more messages transmitted to other devices is used to detect changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions. The control device may also, or alternatively, periodically sample interference and / or channel conditions to determine whether to trigger the learning process. Message communication conditions may be unknown and / or change over time. This may be the result of changes in the network and / or environment and / or the movement of the control device (e.g., not fixed to a specific location). For example, the control device may be moved closer to a given load control device, which may improve message communication conditions and / or allow the control device to reduce message transmission power to another device (e.g., a parent device). The control device may identify changes in network information indicating changes in link communication quality in received messages, or detect lost messages from other devices in the load control system (e.g., a parent device or other devices), and will periodically or serially transmit said lost messages to trigger the learning process at 412.

[0116] A learning process can be triggered at 412 to learn the transmission power of messages that transmit specific types of commands. For example, the control device can trigger the learning process to learn the transmission power of commands that cause a change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than a threshold, such that the control device can store the learned transmission power for future commands that cause a similar change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than the threshold. Commands that change the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than the threshold may include on commands, off commands, toggle commands, increase commands that increase the lighting level by an amount greater than the threshold, decrease commands that decrease the lighting level by an amount greater than the threshold, and / or move commands that adjust the lighting level by an amount greater than the threshold. The control device can also trigger the learning process to learn the transmission power of commands that cause a change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount less than a threshold, such that the control device can store the learned transmission power for future commands that cause a similar change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than the threshold.

[0117] At point 414, the control device can determine the stored transmission power P used for transmitting messages. STORED (For example, it can be retrieved from memory). For example, the stored transmission power P STORED This could be the transmission power stored during process 350 previously illustrated in Figure 3. At 416, the control device can determine the test transmission power P. TEST Test transmission power P TEST It can be lower than the current stored transmission power P used to transmit messages from the control device. STORED The transmission power. For example, testing the transmission power P. TEST Comparable stored transmission power P STOREDA small predetermined amount is used to attempt to learn the reduced transmission power required by the control device to transmit messages (e.g., in response to changing network conditions that may be caused by variations in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions) and to conserve the limited power supply of the control device. The transmission power P is tested. TEST It could be the next transmission power P that is currently stored. STORED Low transmission power. Test transmission power P TEST It can be equal to the minimum transmission power P MIN This allows the control device to attempt to minimize its transmission power during the learning process.

[0118] Test transmission power P TEST It can be the currently stored transmission power P set for transmitting messages from the control device. STORED Alternatively, the transmission power can be set to a level higher than the currently stored transmission power. For example, test the transmission power P. TEST It can be equal to the stored transmission power P STORED Or compared to the stored transmission power P STORED A large predetermined amount is used to attempt to learn the increased transmission power required by the control device to transmit messages (e.g., in response to changes in network conditions that may be caused by variations in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions), in order to increase the likelihood of other devices receiving messages while attempting to reduce power consumption at the control device. If the transmission power P is tested... TEST Higher than the stored transmission power P STORED Then test the transmission power P TEST It could be the next transmission power PS compared to the currently stored power. TORED High transmission power.

[0119] At point 418, the control device can use the test transmission power P TEST To transmit messages. At 420, the control device can determine whether an acknowledgment message has been received, which indicates whether the message transmitted at 418 has been received by another device (e.g., a parent device). If an acknowledgment message is received at 420, the test transmission power P can be stored at 424. TEST The test transmission power P stored at 424 can be used at a subsequent call to process 350 (e.g., at 358) or at a subsequent call to process 410 (e.g., at 414). TEST (For example, the stored transmission power P) STORED Test transmission power P TESTThis could be increasing the likelihood of receiving a message and / or allowing for reduced power consumption from the limited power supply of the control device. At 420, if no acknowledgment message is received, the control device can determine at 426 whether a timeout has occurred. The timeout may include the period during which the control device can wait to receive an acknowledgment message. Furthermore, after a timeout (e.g., after a period has elapsed since the message was transmitted at 418), the control device can determine that another device (e.g., a parent device) has not received the message.

[0120] At 430, the control device can determine the test transmission power P. TEST Is it the maximum transmission power P? MAX If the transmission power P is tested TEST Not the maximum transmission power P MAX Then, the test transmission power P can be increased at 428. TEST Furthermore, messages can be transmitted at 422 with increased transmission power. As described herein, the test transmission power P is increased. TEST This allows the control device to increase the likelihood of receiving messages. However, if the test transmission power P of the message... TEST At maximum transmission power P MAX If no acknowledgment message is received at 420, an error condition can be logged at 432. The error condition logged at 432 may indicate that the receiving device (e.g., the parent device) has failed to receive the message, or that the receiving device (e.g., the parent device) is unable to transmit the message reception to the control device executing process 400.

[0121] Although process 410 can be used to test the transmission power P TEST The maximum transmission power P increased to 430. MAX However, process 410 can be implemented similarly by increasing the learned transmission power to another maximum transmission power. For example, the control device can determine the stored transmission power P at 414. STORED And with a lower test transmission power P TEST Transmission command. Test transmission power P can be added at 428. TEST Until the transmission power P is tested TEST Reaching the previously stored transmission power P STORED (For example, determined at 414). If the control device fails to receive an acknowledgment message in response to a message transmitting at a lower transmission power, process 410 may be executed to attempt to reduce the previously stored transmission power P. STORED And maintain the same transmission power.

[0122] Figure 4CThis is a flowchart depicting another exemplary process 450 for learning the transmission power used to transmit messages from a control device in a load control system. Process 450 can be performed by a power-conserving control device, such as a control device powered by a limited power source (e.g., remote control device 116 and / or remote control device 202). As described herein, the control device can be configured to transmit messages in a manner that conserves limited power. The executable process 450 updates the stored transmission power P at the control device by implementing a learning process. STORED For example, process 450 can be executed to allow the control device to learn lower transmission power to reduce power consumption at the control device while maintaining communication with other devices. Process 450 can be executed by remote control devices 116, 202 to learn updated transmission power for transmitting messages including commands for controlling one or more load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, 204a, 204b).

[0123] At 452, the control device can trigger a learning process. The learning process can be triggered at 452 after a predefined period following the last execution of process 450, the last stored transmission power, or another defined event, allowing the control device to update the previously stored transmission power P used for message transmission. STORED The learning process can be triggered asynchronously at 452, for example, in response to user input (e.g., user interaction, such as rotation of a rotating part and / or actuation of an actuated part), and unknown message transmission conditions can be taken into account (e.g., changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions). For example, message communication conditions can be unknown and / or change over time. This can be a result of changes in the network and / or environment and / or the movement of the control device (e.g., not fixed in a specific location). For example, the control device can be moved closer to another device (e.g., a parent device), which can improve message communication conditions and / or allow the control device to reduce message transmission power to the other device (e.g., the parent device).

[0124] A learning process can be triggered at point 452 to learn the transmission power of messages that transmit specific types of commands. For example, the control device can trigger the learning process to learn the transmission power of commands that cause a change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than a threshold, such that the control device can store the learned transmission power for future commands that cause a similar change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than the threshold. Commands that change the lighting intensity level by an amount greater than the threshold may include on commands, off commands, toggle commands, increase commands that increase the lighting level by an amount greater than the threshold, decrease commands that decrease the lighting level by an amount greater than the threshold, and / or move commands that adjust the lighting level by an amount greater than the threshold. The control device can also trigger the learning process to learn the transmission power of commands that cause a change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount less than a threshold, such that the control device can store the learned transmission power for future commands that cause a similar change in the lighting level of the lighting device by an amount greater than the threshold.

[0125] At position 454, the control device can determine the stored transmission power P used for transmitting messages. STORED (For example, it can be retrieved from memory). For example, the stored transmission power P STORED This could be the stored transmission power used during process 350 previously illustrated in Figure 3. At 456, the control device can determine the stored transmission power P at 454. STORED Is it already at minimum transmission power P? MIN If the stored transmission power P STORED equals P MIN Then the control device can maintain the stored transmission power P at 458. STORED .

[0126] If the stored transmission power P STORED Greater than the minimum transmission power P MIN Then the control device can determine the test transmission power P at 459. TEST Test transmission power P TEST It could be the next transmission power P that is stored. STORED Low transmission power. For example, testing transmission power P TEST Comparable stored transmission power P STORED Smaller preset amounts are used to attempt to learn the reduced transmission power used by the control device to transmit messages (e.g., in response to changing network conditions that may be caused by changes in distance, interference, and / or channel conditions) and to conserve battery power at the control device.

[0127] At 460, the control device can use the test transmission power P TESTTo transmit messages. At 462, the control device can determine whether an acknowledgment message has been received, which indicates whether the message transmitted at 460 was received by another device (e.g., a parent device). If an acknowledgment message is received at 462, the control device can determine the test transmission power P. TEST Is it equal to the minimum transmission power P? MIN If the transmission power P is tested TEST Not equal to minimum transmission power P MIN Then the control device can reduce the test transmission power P at 470. TEST To attempt to determine whether to further reduce the stored transmission power P STORED The control device can transmit the message at 472 with reduced transmission power. The control device can then determine whether an acknowledgment message has been received in response to the message transmitted at 462 with reduced transmission power. If the learned transmission power P is determined... LEARN Equal to minimum transmission power P MIN Then the control device can transmit the minimum power P MIN The stored transmission power P is used for transmitting messages from the control device. STORED .

[0128] At point 462, if no acknowledgment message is received, the control device can determine at point 464 whether a timeout has occurred. The timeout may include the period during which the control device can wait to receive an acknowledgment message. Furthermore, after the timeout (e.g., after a period of time has elapsed since the message was transmitted at point 460), the control device can determine that another device (e.g., a parent device) has not received the message.

[0129] If the test transmission power P is not achieved TEST Upon receiving an acknowledgment message, the control device can store the previous transmission power at location 466. The previous transmission power can be the power used when transmitting the message (e.g., at location 472) and receiving the acknowledgment message (e.g., at location 462). The previous transmission power can be the test transmission power P. TEST The previous iteration. If the control device does not receive a response to test the transmission power P TEST (For example, the initial value of the test transmission power used at 460) The acknowledgment message of the transmission message, then the previous transmission power can be the stored transmission power P. STORED (For example, determined at 454). As described herein, reduce the test transmission power P. TEST To learn the new stored transmission power P STORED This allows the control device to reduce power consumption for transmitting messages from the control device while maintaining communication with other devices on the network (e.g., parent devices).

[0130] Although Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 4C The steps are illustrated in a specific order, but the control device may execute the steps or a subset thereof in any combination or order.

[0131] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary load control device (e.g., load control device 500) as described herein. The load control device may include a load control circuit 508 for controlling an electrical load 516. Load control device 500 may be a dimmer switch, an electronic switch, a lighting device (e.g., a light bulb, an electronic ballast for a lamp, an LED driver for an LED light source, etc.), an AC plug-in load control device for controlling plug-in electrical loads, a controllable electrical outlet, a temperature control device (e.g., a thermostat), a motor drive unit for motorized curtains, a motor drive unit for a fan (e.g., a ceiling fan), an audio device (e.g., a controllable speaker or playback device), an appliance, a security camera device, or other load control device.

[0132] The load control device 500 may include a power supply 510 for supplying power to the circuitry and / or electrical load 516 of the load control device. For example, the power supply 510 may include a power converter and / or power supply configured to receive source voltage from an external power source (e.g., an AC mains voltage power supply and / or an external DC power supply) and generate a supply voltage (e.g., a DC supply voltage). Additionally, the power supply 510 may include a battery for supplying power to the circuitry and / or electrical load 516 of the load control device 500. The load control circuitry 508 may receive the supply voltage from the power supply 510 and may control the electrical force delivered to the electrical load 516.

[0133] The load control device 500 may include communication circuitry 502. Communication circuitry 502 may include a receiver, an RF transceiver, or other communication modules capable of performing wired and / or wireless communication via communication link 510. Communication circuitry 502 may communicate with control circuitry 504. Control circuitry 504 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 504 may perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other functionality that enables the load control device 500 to perform as described herein.

[0134] Control circuitry 504 may be coupled to communication circuitry 502 for transmitting and receiving messages (e.g., digital messages) via the communication circuitry. Control circuitry 504 may be configured to control the transmission power of communication circuitry 502 to allow the load control device 500 to be characterized by adaptive transmission power (e.g., as described herein). Control circuitry 504 may cause communication circuitry 502 to initially transmit messages at low transmission power and then increase the transmission power until the message is received by a designated receiver. Control circuitry 504 may also dynamically adjust the transmission power based on the type of message and / or the type of command transmitted.

[0135] Control circuitry 504 may store information in memory 506 and / or retrieve information from said memory. For example, memory 506 may maintain a registry of associated control devices and / or control configuration instructions. Memory 506 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory. Load control circuitry 508 may receive instructions from control circuitry 504 and may control electrical load 516 based on the received instructions. Load control circuitry 508 may send status feedback regarding the state of electrical load 516 to control circuitry 504. Load control circuitry 508 may receive power via hot connection 512 and neutral connection 514 and may supply a certain amount of power to electrical load 516. Electrical load 516 may include any type of electrical load.

[0136] Control circuitry 504 may communicate with actuator 518 (e.g., one or more buttons), which may be actuated by a user to convey user selections to control circuitry 504. For example, actuator 518 may be actuated to place control circuitry 504 in associated mode and / or transmit associated messages from load control device 500.

[0137] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary controller device 600 as described herein. The controller device 600 may be a remote control device, an occupancy sensor, a daylight sensor, a window sensor, a temperature sensor, etc. The controller device 600 may include control circuitry 602 for controlling the functionality of the controller device 600. Control circuitry 602 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 602 may perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, and / or any other functionality that enables the controller device 600 to perform as described herein.

[0138] The control circuit 602 can store information in the memory 604 and / or retrieve information from the memory. The memory 604 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory, as described herein.

[0139] The controller device 600 may include one or more light sources (such as one or more LEDs 612) for providing feedback to a user. One or more LEDs 612 may be included in a status indicator and may be controlled by control circuitry 602. Control circuitry 602 may control the LEDs 612 as described herein to provide feedback to the user.

[0140] Control circuitry 602 may also communicate with input circuitry 606. Input circuitry 606 may include actuators (e.g., one or more buttons), rotating or sliding parts, or sensor circuitry (e.g., occupancy sensor circuitry, sunlight sensor circuitry, or temperature sensor circuitry) to receive inputs that can be sent to the device for controlling an electrical load. Input circuitry 606 may also include proximity sensing circuitry for sensing an occupant in the vicinity of controller device 600. For example, control source device 602 may receive input from input circuitry 606 to place control circuitry 602 in an associated mode and / or transmit associated messages from controller device 600. Control circuitry 602 may receive information from input circuitry 606 (e.g., indications that a button has been actuated, a rotating part has been rotated, or information has been sensed) and / or indications of proximity sensing events. Input circuitry 606 may be actuated as an on / off event. Each of the modules within controller device 600 may be powered by power supply 610.

[0141] The controller device 600 may include a wireless communication circuit 608 for transmitting and / or receiving information. The wireless communication circuit 608 may transmit and / or receive information wirelessly. The wireless communication circuit 608 may include a transmitter, an RF transceiver, or other circuitry capable of performing wired and / or wireless communication. The wireless communication circuit 608 may communicate with the control circuit 602 for transmitting and / or receiving information.

[0142] Control circuitry 602 may be coupled to wireless communication circuitry 608 for transmitting and receiving messages (e.g., digital messages) via wireless communication circuitry 608. Control circuitry 602 may be configured to control the transmission power of wireless communication circuitry 608 to allow the controller device 600 to be characterized by adaptive transmission power (e.g., as described herein). Control circuitry 602 may cause wireless communication circuitry 608 to initially transmit messages with low transmission power and then increase the transmission power until the message is received by a designated receiver. Control circuitry 602 may also dynamically adjust the transmission power based on the type of message being transmitted (e.g., unicast or multicast message) and / or the type of command (e.g., turn on, turn off, move to a certain level, gradual movement, etc.).

[0143] Figure 7This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary network device 700 as described herein. For example, network device 700 may include network device 190. Network device 700 may include control circuitry 702 for controlling the functionality of network device 700. Control circuitry 702 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 702 may perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other functionality enabling network device 700 to perform as described herein. Control circuitry 702 may store information in and / or retrieve information from memory 704. Memory 704 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory. The 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. The removable memory may include a user identity module (SIM) card, memory stick, memory card, or any other type of removable memory.

[0144] Network device 700 may include communication circuitry 708 for transmitting and / or receiving information. Communication circuitry 708 may perform wireless and / or wired communication. Communication circuitry 708 may include an RF transceiver or other circuitry capable of performing wireless communication via an antenna. Communication circuitry 708 may communicate with control circuitry 702 for transmitting and / or receiving information.

[0145] The control circuitry 702 may also communicate with the display 706 to provide information to the user. The control circuitry 702 and / or the display 706 may generate a GUI for display on the network device 700. The display 706 and the control circuitry 702 may be in bidirectional communication, as the display 706 may include a touchscreen module capable of receiving information from the user and providing such information to the control circuitry 702. The network device may also include an actuator 712 (e.g., one or more buttons) that can be actuated by the user to convey user selections to the control circuitry 702.

[0146] Each module within the network device 700 may be powered by the power supply 710. For example, the power supply 710 may include an AC power supply or a DC power supply. The power supply 710 may generate a supply voltage V. CC It is used to supply power to the modules within the network device 700.

[0147] Figure 8This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system controller 800 (e.g., system controller 180) as described herein. System controller 800 may include control circuitry 802 for controlling the functionality of system controller 800. Control circuitry 802 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 802 may perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other functionality enabling system controller 800 to perform as described herein. Control circuitry 802 may store information in and / or retrieve information from memory 804. Memory 804 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory. The 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. The removable memory may include a user identity module (SIM) card, memory stick, memory card, or any other type of removable memory.

[0148] System controller 800 may include communication circuitry 808 for transmitting and / or receiving information. Communication circuitry 808 may perform wireless and / or wired communication. System controller 800 may also, or alternatively, include communication circuitry 812 for transmitting and / or receiving information. Communication circuitry 812 may perform wireless and / or wired communication. Communication circuitry 808 and 812 may communicate with control circuitry 802. Communication circuitry 808 and 812 may include an RF transceiver or other communication modules capable of performing wireless communication via an antenna. Communication circuitry 808 and communication circuitry 812 may be able to communicate via the same communication channel or different communication channels. For example, communication circuitry 808 may be able to communicate via a wireless communication channel (e.g., NFC

[0149] BLE, ZIGBEE The communication circuit 812 can communicate via another wireless communication channel (e.g., cellular devices, on a network, etc.) and may also communicate via another wireless communication channel (e.g., cellular devices, on a network, etc.). Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, BLE Or dedicated communication channels, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM Or CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X TM ) to communicate (e.g., with control devices and / or other devices in the load control system).

[0150] Control circuitry 802 may communicate with LED indicator 814 to provide indications to the user. Control circuitry 802 may also communicate with actuator 806 (e.g., one or more buttons), which may be actuated by the user to convey user selections to control circuitry 802. For example, actuator 806 may be actuated to place control circuitry 802 in an associated mode and / or transmit associated messages from system controller 800.

[0151] Each module within the system controller 800 can be powered by the power supply 810. For example, the power supply 810 may include an AC power supply or a DC power supply. The power supply 810 can generate a supply voltage V. CC It is used to supply power to the modules within the system controller 800.

[0152] Although features and elements are described herein in specific combinations, each feature or element may be used individually or in any combination with other features and elements. For example, a function described herein may be described as being performed by a control device (such as a remote control device or a lighting device), but may similarly be performed by a system controller or network device. The processes and methods described herein may be implemented in a computer program, software, or firmware incorporated in a computer-readable medium for execution by a computer or processor. Examples of computer-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 disks, and optical media such as CD-ROM disks and digital versatile disks (DVDs).

Claims

1. A control device, the control device comprising: user interface; as well as A processor configured to perform the following operations: User input is received via the user interface; Based on the user input, commands of various command types configured to control the lighting load are determined for transmission in the message, wherein the various command types include commands configured to turn on the lighting load, commands configured to turn off the lighting load, or commands configured to adjust the lighting level of the lighting load; A transmission power for transmitting the message is determined based on the determined command, wherein the transmission power is higher in response to the command being determined to be configured to turn on the lighting load or to turn off the lighting load, and wherein the transmission power is lower in response to the command being determined to be configured to adjust the lighting level of the lighting load; and The message is transmitted at the determined transmission power.

2. The control device of claim 1, wherein the determined transmission power is a determined first transmission power, and wherein the processor is further configured to perform the following operations: In the event that the message cannot be successfully received, a second transmission power is determined, wherein the determined second transmission power is greater than the determined first transmission power; and The message is retransmitted at the determined second transmission power.

3. The control device of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to determine that the message was not successfully received based on the failure to receive an acknowledgment message within a period of time from the start of the transmission of the message.

4. The control device of claim 3, wherein the processor is further configured to perform the following operations: Receive an acknowledgment message in response to the retransmission of the message at the determined second transmission power; and After receiving the confirmation message, the transmission power used for transmitting other messages is stored.

5. The control device of claim 4, wherein the processor is further configured to perform the following operations: Receive input from another user via the user interface; Determine another command based on the other user input; and After receiving the other user input, a message including the other command is transmitted at the stored transmission power.

6. The control device of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform the following operations: The lighting level change of the lighting load is determined based on the command; and When the change in the lighting level exceeds a threshold amount, the transmission power is set to the maximum transmission power.

7. A control device, the control device comprising: user interface; as well as A processor configured to perform the following operations: User input is received via the user interface; Based on the user input, commands of various command types are determined to be configured to control the lighting load, wherein the various command types include commands configured to turn on the lighting load, commands configured to turn off the lighting load, and commands configured to adjust the lighting level of the lighting load; The first transmission power is determined based on the change in lighting intensity level at the lighting load, as specified in the command. as well as A first message including the command is transmitted at a determined first transmission power, wherein the first transmission power is higher in response to the command being determined to be configured to turn off the lighting load or to turn on the lighting load, and wherein the first transmission power is lower in response to the command being determined to be configured to adjust the lighting level of the lighting load.

8. The control device of claim 7, wherein the processor is configured to perform the following operations: When the change in the lighting intensity level is less than a threshold, the message is transmitted at the determined first transmission power. When the change in lighting intensity level is greater than the threshold, the message is transmitted at a determined second transmission power, wherein the determined second transmission power is greater than the determined first transmission power.

9. The control device of claim 7, wherein the determined first transmission power is a larger transmission power when the change in the lighting intensity level is greater than a threshold, and wherein the determined first transmission power is a lower transmission power when the change in the lighting intensity level is less than the threshold.

10. The control device of claim 9, wherein the determined first transmission power is the lower transmission power, and wherein the processor is further configured to perform the following operations: Determine the second transmission power if the first message is not successfully received; and The first message is retransmitted at the determined second transmission power.

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