Virtualization method of DALI slave station

Abstract

The invention discloses a virtualization method of a DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) slave station, which virtualizes a single multi-channel DALI power supply device into a plurality of logic slave station devices through software definition, realizes that a single physical device supports a mixed device type and an independent control strategy, and specifically comprises a multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism: on the premise of following the 64 address / bus limitation of a DALI protocol, carrying out the multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism; binding a plurality of output channels of the physical equipment with independent logic addresses, wherein each logic address occupies a bus physical address and is configured as a specific equipment type; according to the channel-address binding strategy, single-channel or double-channel binding is supported, remaining channels are dynamically reconfigured, and the binding relation is adjusted in real time through a software interface; and transparent processing of a protocol layer: integrating a virtualization engine in the equipment, and analyzing a standard DALI instruction sent to the logic address by the main controller. According to the virtualized multichannel DALI equipment, hybrid control is realized, the cost is reduced, and the address utilization rate and the operation and maintenance efficiency are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of intelligent lighting control technology, and in particular to a virtualization method for DALI slave stations. Background Technology

[0002] In intelligent lighting systems, the DALI protocol has become one of the mainstream lighting control solutions due to its standardized communication mechanism and low power consumption. However, traditional DALI slave devices (such as multi-channel power supplies) have significant technical bottlenecks: First, the limited functionality and insufficient scenario adaptability of existing multi-channel devices (such as 6-channel power supplies) are limited by protocol constraints and can only be configured as a single device type (all DT6 or all DT8). For example, DT6 devices only support single-channel brightness adjustment, and although DT8 devices support dual-channel color temperature or RGB color adjustment, they cannot be mixed and deployed in the same physical device. As a result, in scenarios such as high-end retail and multi-functional conference rooms, multiple different types of devices need to be purchased to meet the complex requirements of dimming, color temperature, and color, which significantly increases hardware costs and cabling complexity. Secondly, the address resources and channel utilization are inefficient. The DALI bus only supports 64 physical addresses. In traditional solutions, if the 6 channels are split into multiple independent devices, a large amount of address resources are required and the channel allocation is rigid. For example, splitting into 3 DT6 devices requires 3 addresses (2 channels per address), or splitting into 3 DT8 devices (2 channels per address), both of which result in functional limitation and ineffective use of address resources. Furthermore, there are system upgrade and compatibility issues. Older DALI systems are typically built on the DT6 protocol and cannot be directly connected to DT8 devices. If functional upgrades are needed (such as adding color temperature control), the entire hardware needs to be replaced, resulting in high modification costs. At the same time, in the multi-device independent configuration mode, debugging requires operation on each address individually, leading to low maintenance efficiency and easily causing configuration conflicts, especially in complex scenarios.

[0003] In addition, due to the constraints of hardware resources and protocol characteristics, DALI slave stations are generally implemented using low-resource microcontrollers with a communication rate of only 1200bps and a single transmission of only 2 bytes of data. Traditional solutions cannot overcome functional limitations through hardware upgrades. Therefore, a virtualization method for DALI slave stations is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a virtualization method for DALI slave stations to solve the problems mentioned in the background section.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a virtualization method for DALI slave stations, which uses software definition to virtualize a single multi-channel DALI power supply device into multiple logical slave devices, enabling a single physical device to support mixed device types and independent control strategies, specifically including: Multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism: Under the premise of complying with the DALI protocol's 64 address / bus limit, multiple output channels of physical devices are bound to independent logical addresses, and each logical address occupies a bus physical address and is configured as a specific device type; Channel-address binding strategy: Supports single-channel or dual-channel binding, with dynamic reconfiguration of remaining channels and real-time adjustment of binding relationships through the software interface; Protocol layer transparency: The device integrates a virtualization engine to parse the standard DALI commands sent by the master controller to the logical address and forwards the commands to the corresponding physical channel, shielding the complexity of hardware configuration and ensuring that the master controller perceives multiple independent slave devices; In the multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism, the device type configuration for each logical address can be achieved by pre-setting a configuration table in the microcontroller firmware to store the mapping relationship between different logical addresses and channel combinations and device types. During the initialization phase, the state of each logical address is initialized according to the configuration table. During runtime, the software interface receives adjustment commands input by the user, updates the configuration table, and reassigns the binding relationship between channels and logical addresses to achieve dynamic configuration. This solution, while adhering to the limitations of the DALI protocol, enables a single physical device to support mixed device types and apply independent control strategies, greatly enhancing the system's flexibility and functionality. The multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism ensures efficient resource utilization, while the channel-address binding strategy supports dynamic reconfiguration, simplifying system debugging and improving operational efficiency. Protocol layer transparency, through the integrated virtualization engine, shields the complexity of hardware configuration, allowing the main controller to seamlessly connect to multiple independent slave devices, reducing the difficulty and cost of system integration. Furthermore, this technical solution is also suitable for resource-constrained microcontroller platforms, requiring no additional hardware modules or complex operating systems. Efficient reuse of hardware resources can be achieved through software definition, meeting the refined lighting control needs of complex scenarios in commercial, industrial, and residential sectors.

[0006] Preferably, the device type mixed configuration of the logical address includes any combination of DT6 and DT8, and a single physical device simultaneously supports multiple functional modes such as dimming, color temperature adjustment and RGB color adjustment to meet the complex needs of commercial lighting and industrial scenarios. The virtualization engine predefines the instruction sets and communication protocol specifications for DT6 and DT8 devices. Through the configuration interface, users can select DT6 or DT8 type for each logical address. The engine dynamically loads the corresponding instruction parsing module according to the selection, ensuring that when the main controller instruction is received, it can be accurately forwarded to the corresponding physical channel and perform corresponding dimming, color temperature adjustment or RGB color adjustment operations, so as to realize flexible mixed configuration of device types. In commercial and industrial lighting scenarios, different areas and time periods have varying lighting requirements. Traditional solutions often require the deployment of multiple independent devices to meet these different needs, increasing costs and complexity. This technology, through virtualization, enables a single device to flexibly switch functional modes, saving hardware resources and simplifying system configuration and maintenance processes. At the same time, it supports any combination of DT6 and DT8, providing more possibilities for lighting design and better meeting the refined lighting control needs of different scenarios, thus driving the lighting industry towards a more intelligent and efficient direction.

[0007] Preferably, the channel-address binding supports dynamic reconfiguration, and parameters are sent in batches through the software interface to realize the channel allocation of logical addresses and the switching of device types, thereby improving system debugging efficiency; By developing a dedicated software interface that integrates parameter editing and distribution functions, users can intuitively select logical addresses and specify the physical channels and device types (such as DT6 or DT8) to which they are bound. The interface provides real-time feedback on the current configuration status, allowing batch modifications and one-click distribution to the hardware, thus realizing dynamic binding of logical addresses and physical channels and rapid switching of device types. This technology allows users to flexibly adjust the binding relationship between logical addresses and physical channels, as well as switch device types, through an intuitive software interface, without making any hardware modifications. This feature greatly improves the flexibility and efficiency of system debugging, especially in the initial configuration or later maintenance phases of a project. It can quickly respond to changes in requirements, reduce on-site debugging time and costs, and promote the efficient use of hardware resources. This enables a single physical device to support more diverse lighting control strategies and meet the refined needs of different scenarios. In addition, the dynamic reconfiguration capability enhances the scalability and compatibility of the system, facilitates future technology upgrades and integration, and provides a strong guarantee for the long-term stable operation of the lighting system.

[0008] Preferably, the virtualization engine has a built-in protocol instruction priority scheduling mechanism. In response to the single 2-byte data transmission characteristic of the DALI protocol, the control instructions of the logical address are queued to ensure that high-priority instructions (such as emergency lighting control) are forwarded to the corresponding physical channel first, thereby improving the real-time performance and reliability of the system response. An instruction queue is maintained for each logical address, and the instructions in the queue are ordered according to a preset priority (e.g., emergency lighting control instructions have the highest priority). When a new instruction is received, it is inserted into the appropriate position in the corresponding queue according to the instruction type. When processing instructions, the engine forwards them to the corresponding physical channels in the order of the queues, ensuring that high-priority instructions are executed first, thereby improving the real-time performance and reliability of the system response. The virtualization engine's built-in protocol instruction priority scheduling mechanism, taking into account the DALI protocol's limitation of transmitting only 2 bytes of data at a time, effectively ensures the priority processing of high-priority instructions such as emergency lighting control through instruction queue management. This mechanism not only improves the system's response speed in emergency situations and enhances its real-time performance, but also reduces instruction conflicts and waiting time by rationally scheduling instruction execution order, thereby improving the overall reliability of the system.

[0009] Preferably, the virtualization engine adopts a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm, which is adapted to the DALI protocol's 1200bps transmission rate and single 2-byte data characteristics. It realizes dynamic mapping between logical addresses and physical channels on a resource-constrained microcontroller platform, without the need for additional hardware modules or complex operating systems, ensuring the real-time performance and reliability of instruction forwarding. The lightweight instruction parsing algorithm uses a predefined DALI protocol instruction set and physical channel mapping table to quickly compare the instruction header with the mapping table when it receives instructions from the main controller, and directly locate the corresponding physical channel. At the same time, it uses a state machine to manage the instruction execution process, reducing memory usage and processing time, and ensuring efficient operation on resource-constrained microcontrollers. The virtualization engine employs a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm, specifically designed for the DALI protocol's 1200bps transmission rate and single-pass 2-byte data characteristics. It can efficiently achieve dynamic mapping between logical addresses and physical channels on resource-constrained microcontroller platforms. This design requires no additional hardware modules or complex operating system support, greatly reducing system cost and complexity. Through the lightweight algorithm, the instruction parsing and forwarding process is simplified, ensuring the real-time performance and reliability of instruction processing. It can operate stably even in low-bandwidth, low-processing-power environments. This technology not only optimizes the resource utilization of DALI lighting systems but also enhances the system's flexibility and scalability, enabling a single physical device to support more logical slaves and meet the lighting control needs of different scenarios.

[0010] Preferably, the multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism supports protocol compatibility conversion of logical addresses. By virtualizing the DT8 device as a DT6 logical address, it adapts to the instruction set of the old DALI controller, realizes the gradual upgrade of old system hardware, and protects existing investments. The virtualization engine pre-configures a DT8 to DT6 instruction mapping table. When a DT6 instruction is received from an older DALI controller, the engine automatically parses and maps the instruction to the corresponding DT8 control instruction. At the same time, it ensures that the mapped instruction still conforms to the DALI protocol specification, thereby enabling DT8 devices to respond to DT6 instructions in a compatible manner and protecting investments in older systems. By supporting protocol compatibility conversion of logical addresses, the system can seamlessly integrate new and old versions of DALI controllers without immediately replacing all hardware devices, effectively protecting users' existing investments. This feature is particularly important during lighting system upgrades, allowing users to gradually replace devices according to actual needs, reducing upgrade costs. Secondly, this mechanism enhances the system's flexibility and scalability, enabling the same physical device to support multiple device types and meet lighting needs in different scenarios. Furthermore, protocol compatibility conversion helps promote the standardization and popularization of DALI technology, driving the entire lighting industry towards a more intelligent and efficient direction. In summary, the multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism and its protocol compatibility conversion feature not only improve the practicality and economy of DALI lighting systems but also lay a solid foundation for their application in a wider range of fields.

[0011] Preferably, the channel-address binding strategy supports asymmetric channel allocation mode, which optimizes the utilization of DALI bus address resources and reduces address redundancy while meeting the requirements of mixed functions. By setting a configuration module in the software interface, users can select an asymmetric channel allocation scheme according to their needs. The system dynamically allocates logical addresses to the corresponding channels based on the selection and establishes a mapping relationship in the virtualization engine to ensure correct instruction forwarding and achieve flexible configuration of the asymmetric channel allocation mode. This mode, by flexibly combining different numbers of channels to various logical addresses, not only meets the diverse functional requirements of lighting systems, such as dimming and color temperature adjustment, but also significantly optimizes the utilization of DALI bus address resources. Compared with traditional symmetrical allocation, the asymmetric mode reduces address redundancy and improves the overall efficiency of the system. At the same time, this strategy enhances the scalability and adaptability of the system, enabling a single physical device to support more logical slaves, reducing hardware costs, and improving the flexibility and economy of the lighting system.

[0012] Preferably, the method provides a standardized API interface, which supports third-party control systems to manage all logical addresses through a unified configuration interface, perform batch parameter distribution and status synchronization monitoring, thereby reducing the operation and maintenance complexity in multi-device scenarios. By defining a set of standard JSON or XML format data interfaces, including core functions such as logical address management (e.g., creation, deletion, modification), parameter configuration (e.g., brightness, color temperature, RGB values, etc.), status query (e.g., switch status, current parameter value), and event notification (e.g., fault alarm), third-party control systems can call these APIs via HTTP / HTTPS protocols to achieve interaction with virtualized DALI slave stations, simplifying the multi-device management process. The technical solution provides a standardized API interface, bridging third-party control systems and enabling users to easily manage all logical addresses through a unified configuration interface. This design not only simplifies the operation and maintenance process in multi-device scenarios but also greatly improves the system's flexibility and scalability. Through batch parameter distribution and status synchronization monitoring, users can keep track of device status in real time, respond quickly to system changes, and effectively reduce operation and maintenance costs. In addition, the introduction of standardized API interfaces promotes interoperability between different systems, laying a solid foundation for the intelligent and integrated development of lighting systems.

[0013] Preferably, the virtualization engine is designed based on a microcontroller platform with limited DALI slave resources, and allocates an independent bank area for each logical address to store configuration parameters of device type and channel binding; The microcontroller's memory is divided into multiple independent regions (bank areas), each corresponding to a logical address. Through a preset memory management algorithm, configuration parameters such as device type and channel binding relationship are written into the corresponding bank area, and an index is created for quick access and modification. By allocating an independent bank area for each logical address, not only is independent storage and fast access to configuration parameters ensured, but hardware resource management is also simplified. This design requires no additional hardware modules and can be implemented directly on a resource-constrained microcontroller, reducing system complexity and cost. At the same time, it supports dynamic reconfiguration, allowing flexible adjustment of the binding relationship between channels and logical addresses through a software interface, meeting the needs of mixed device types and independent control strategies, and enhancing the system's adaptability and scalability.

[0014] Preferably, the method extends the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations through software definition, performs abstract management of multi-channel hardware resources while adhering to protocol specifications, supports functional iteration and scene adaptation of the lighting system, and extends the device life cycle; By developing a dedicated virtualization software module that runs on a resource-constrained microcontroller, the module uses a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm (adapted to a 1200bps transmission rate) to parse DALI protocol instructions and dynamically forwards the instructions to the corresponding physical channels according to a predefined channel-address binding strategy, thereby realizing the abstract management of hardware resources and expanding the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations. By leveraging software-defined technology, the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations are cleverly expanded, enabling efficient and flexible abstract management of multi-channel hardware resources while adhering to the DALI protocol specifications. This innovation not only supports iterative upgrades of lighting system functions, allowing devices to adapt to ever-changing application scenarios, but also significantly extends the device's lifespan. Through virtualization technology, a single physical device is transformed into multiple logical slave stations, each of which can be independently configured as different types of devices (such as dimming and color temperature adjustment), greatly enhancing the system's flexibility and scalability. Meanwhile, lightweight instruction parsing algorithms and priority scheduling mechanisms ensure the real-time performance and reliability of instruction forwarding, enabling efficient operation even on resource-constrained microcontroller platforms.

[0015] In summary, compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a virtualization method for DALI slave stations, which has the following beneficial effects: This invention virtualizes a single multi-channel DALI power supply device into multiple logical slave devices and adopts a multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism. This enables a single physical device to support mixed device types and implement independent control strategies, effectively solving the problems of limited functionality and insufficient scenario adaptability of traditional DALI slave devices. In scenarios such as high-end retail and multi-functional conference rooms that require simultaneous fulfillment of complex needs such as dimming, color temperature, and color, there is no need to purchase multiple devices of different types, significantly reducing hardware costs and wiring complexity. At the same time, this technology improves the utilization rate of address resources and channels through flexible address and channel binding strategies, avoiding the waste of address resources and functional limitations caused by splitting devices. This allows for more efficient use of the 64 physical address limit, improving the overall system performance. By integrating a virtualization engine within the device, the protocol layer is made transparent. This technology effectively shields the complexity of hardware configuration, enabling the standard DALI commands sent by the main controller to the logical address to be accurately forwarded to the corresponding physical channel. This simplifies the process of system upgrades and compatibility modifications. For older DALI systems, functional upgrades, such as adding color temperature control, can be achieved without replacing the entire hardware, greatly reducing the cost of modification. In addition, the efficiency of debugging and maintenance in the multi-device independent configuration mode is significantly improved, avoiding the tedious process of operating on each address individually and reducing the risk of configuration conflicts. The improvement in maintenance efficiency is particularly evident in complex scenarios, providing a strong guarantee for the stable operation of intelligent lighting systems. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a virtualization method for a DALI slave station in this invention; Figure 2 This is a third-party control system interaction architecture diagram of the invention's virtualization method for DALI slave stations; Figure 3 This is a software interface configuration flowchart of a virtualization method for DALI slave stations in this invention; Figure 4 This is an example diagram of the 6-channel physical power logical address partitioning of a virtualization method for DALI slave stations according to the invention; Figure 5 This invention provides a microcontroller configuration table and dynamic reconfiguration diagram for a virtualization method for DALI slave stations. Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the virtualization engine instruction processing of a virtualization method for DALI slave stations in this invention; Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the compatibility protocol conversion between old and new systems for a virtualization method for DALI slave stations. Figure 8 This is a virtualization software module architecture diagram of a virtualization method for DALI slave stations. Detailed Implementation

[0017] This invention provides a technical solution, a virtualization method for DALI slave stations. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1-8 By using software definition, a single multi-channel DALI power supply device can be virtualized into multiple logical slave devices, enabling a single physical device to support mixed device types and independent control strategies. Specifically, this includes: Multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism: Under the premise of complying with the DALI protocol's 64-address / bus limit, multiple output channels of a physical device are bound to independent logical addresses. Each logical address occupies a physical bus address and is configured as a specific device type (DT6 or DT8). In this embodiment, a 6-channel power supply is used as an example, divided into 4 logical addresses (e.g., addresses 0-3), which are bound to different channel combinations respectively. Address 0: Occupies channel 1, configured for DT6 single-channel dimming; Address 1: Occupies channels 2-3, configured as DT8 dual-channel color temperature control; Address 2: Occupies channel 4, configured as DT6 single-channel dimming; Address 3: Occupies channels 5-6, configured for DT8RGB color adjustment; Channel-address binding strategy: Supports single-channel or dual-channel binding, with dynamic reconfiguration of remaining channels. The binding relationship can be adjusted in real time through the software interface. For example, the RGB mode of a certain logical address can be switched to DT6 dimming without hardware modification. Protocol layer transparency: The device integrates a virtualization engine to parse the standard DALI commands (such as DT6 dimming commands or DT8 color temperature commands) sent by the main controller to the logical address, and forwards the commands to the corresponding physical channels, shielding the complexity of hardware configuration and ensuring that the main controller perceives multiple independent slave devices; In the multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism, the device type configuration for each logical address can be achieved by pre-setting a configuration table in the microcontroller firmware to store the mapping relationship between different logical addresses and channel combinations and device types. During the initialization phase, the state of each logical address is initialized according to the configuration table. During runtime, the software interface receives adjustment commands input by the user, updates the configuration table, and reassigns the binding relationship between channels and logical addresses to achieve dynamic configuration. This solution, while adhering to the limitations of the DALI protocol, enables a single physical device to support mixed device types and apply independent control strategies, greatly enhancing the system's flexibility and functionality. The multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism ensures efficient resource utilization, while the channel-address binding strategy supports dynamic reconfiguration, simplifying system debugging and improving operational efficiency. Protocol layer transparency, through the integrated virtualization engine, shields the complexity of hardware configuration, allowing the main controller to seamlessly connect to multiple independent slave devices, reducing the difficulty and cost of system integration. Furthermore, this technical solution is also suitable for resource-constrained microcontroller platforms, requiring no additional hardware modules or complex operating systems. Efficient reuse of hardware resources can be achieved through software definition, meeting the refined lighting control needs of complex scenarios in commercial, industrial, and residential sectors.

[0018] Please see Figure 1 The device type mixed configuration of the logical address includes any combination of DT6 and DT8. A single physical device can simultaneously support multiple functional modes such as dimming, color temperature adjustment and RGB color adjustment to meet the complex needs of commercial lighting and industrial scenarios. The virtualization engine predefines the instruction sets and communication protocol specifications for DT6 and DT8 devices. Through the configuration interface, users can select DT6 or DT8 type for each logical address. The engine dynamically loads the corresponding instruction parsing module according to the selection, ensuring that when the main controller instruction is received, it can be accurately forwarded to the corresponding physical channel and perform corresponding dimming, color temperature adjustment or RGB color adjustment operations, so as to realize flexible mixed configuration of device types. In commercial and industrial lighting scenarios, different areas and time periods have varying lighting requirements. Traditional solutions often require the deployment of multiple independent devices to meet these different needs, increasing costs and complexity. This technology, through virtualization, enables a single device to flexibly switch functional modes, saving hardware resources and simplifying system configuration and maintenance processes. At the same time, it supports any combination of DT6 and DT8, providing more possibilities for lighting design and better meeting the refined lighting control needs of different scenarios, thus driving the lighting industry towards a more intelligent and efficient direction.

[0019] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 3The channel-address binding supports dynamic reconfiguration. Parameters are sent in batches through the software interface to realize the channel allocation of logical addresses and the switching of device types, thereby improving system debugging efficiency. By developing a dedicated software interface that integrates parameter editing and distribution functions, users can intuitively select logical addresses and specify the physical channels and device types (such as DT6 or DT8) to which they are bound. The interface provides real-time feedback on the current configuration status, allowing batch modifications and one-click distribution to the hardware, thus realizing dynamic binding of logical addresses and physical channels and rapid switching of device types. This technology allows users to flexibly adjust the binding relationship between logical addresses and physical channels, as well as switch device types, through an intuitive software interface, without making any hardware modifications. This feature greatly improves the flexibility and efficiency of system debugging, especially in the initial configuration or later maintenance phases of a project. It can quickly respond to changes in requirements, reduce on-site debugging time and costs, and promote the efficient use of hardware resources. This enables a single physical device to support more diverse lighting control strategies and meet the refined needs of different scenarios. In addition, the dynamic reconfiguration capability enhances the scalability and compatibility of the system, facilitates future technology upgrades and integration, and provides a strong guarantee for the long-term stable operation of the lighting system.

[0020] Please see Figure 1 The virtualization engine has a built-in protocol instruction priority scheduling mechanism. In response to the single 2-byte data transmission characteristic of the DALI protocol, it performs queue management on the control instructions of the logical address to ensure that high-priority instructions (such as emergency lighting control) are forwarded to the corresponding physical channel first, thereby improving the real-time performance and reliability of the system response. An instruction queue is maintained for each logical address, and the instructions in the queue are ordered according to a preset priority (e.g., emergency lighting control instructions have the highest priority). When a new instruction is received, it is inserted into the appropriate position in the corresponding queue according to the instruction type. When processing instructions, the engine forwards them to the corresponding physical channels in the order of the queues, ensuring that high-priority instructions are executed first, thereby improving the real-time performance and reliability of the system response. The virtualization engine's built-in protocol instruction priority scheduling mechanism, taking into account the DALI protocol's limitation of transmitting only 2 bytes of data at a time, effectively ensures the priority processing of high-priority instructions such as emergency lighting control through instruction queue management. This mechanism not only improves the system's response speed in emergency situations and enhances its real-time performance, but also reduces instruction conflicts and waiting time by rationally scheduling instruction execution order, thereby improving the overall reliability of the system.

[0021] Please see Figure 1The virtualization engine adopts a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm, which is adapted to the DALI protocol's 1200bps transmission rate and single 2-byte data characteristics. It realizes dynamic mapping between logical addresses and physical channels on resource-constrained microcontroller platforms without the need for additional hardware modules or complex operating systems, ensuring the real-time performance and reliability of instruction forwarding. The lightweight instruction parsing algorithm uses a predefined DALI protocol instruction set and physical channel mapping table to quickly compare the instruction header with the mapping table when it receives instructions from the main controller, and directly locate the corresponding physical channel. At the same time, it uses a state machine to manage the instruction execution process, reducing memory usage and processing time, and ensuring efficient operation on resource-constrained microcontrollers. The virtualization engine employs a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm, specifically designed for the DALI protocol's 1200bps transmission rate and single-pass 2-byte data characteristics. It can efficiently achieve dynamic mapping between logical addresses and physical channels on resource-constrained microcontroller platforms. This design requires no additional hardware modules or complex operating system support, greatly reducing system cost and complexity. Through the lightweight algorithm, the instruction parsing and forwarding process is simplified, ensuring the real-time performance and reliability of instruction processing. It can operate stably even in low-bandwidth, low-processing-power environments. This technology not only optimizes the resource utilization of DALI lighting systems but also enhances the system's flexibility and scalability, enabling a single physical device to support more logical slaves and meet the lighting control needs of different scenarios.

[0022] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 7 The multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism supports protocol compatibility conversion of logical addresses. By virtualizing DT8 devices as DT6 logical addresses, it adapts to the instruction set of the old DALI controller, realizes the gradual upgrade of old system hardware, and protects existing investments. The virtualization engine pre-configures a DT8 to DT6 instruction mapping table. When a DT6 instruction is received from an older DALI controller, the engine automatically parses and maps the instruction to the corresponding DT8 control instruction. At the same time, it ensures that the mapped instruction still conforms to the DALI protocol specification, thereby enabling DT8 devices to respond to DT6 instructions in a compatible manner and protecting investments in older systems. By supporting protocol compatibility conversion of logical addresses, the system can seamlessly integrate new and old versions of DALI controllers without immediately replacing all hardware devices, effectively protecting users' existing investments. This feature is particularly important during lighting system upgrades, allowing users to gradually replace devices according to actual needs, reducing upgrade costs. Secondly, this mechanism enhances the system's flexibility and scalability, enabling the same physical device to support multiple device types and meet lighting needs in different scenarios. Furthermore, protocol compatibility conversion helps promote the standardization and popularization of DALI technology, driving the entire lighting industry towards a more intelligent and efficient direction. In summary, the multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism and its protocol compatibility conversion feature not only improve the practicality and economy of DALI lighting systems but also lay a solid foundation for their application in a wider range of fields.

[0023] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The channel-address binding strategy supports asymmetric channel allocation mode. For example, a 6-channel power supply can achieve a 1+2+1+2 channel combination through 4 logical addresses. While meeting the requirements of mixed functions, it optimizes the utilization of DALI bus address resources and reduces address redundancy. By setting a configuration module in the software interface, users can select an asymmetric channel allocation scheme according to their needs. For example, a 6-channel power supply can select a combination mode of 1+2+1+2. The system dynamically allocates logical addresses to the corresponding channels according to the selection and establishes a mapping relationship in the virtualization engine to ensure that the instructions are forwarded correctly, thus realizing flexible configuration of the asymmetric channel allocation mode. This mode, by flexibly combining different numbers of channels to various logical addresses, not only meets the diverse functional requirements of lighting systems, such as dimming and color temperature adjustment, but also significantly optimizes the utilization of DALI bus address resources. Compared with traditional symmetrical allocation, the asymmetric mode reduces address redundancy and improves the overall efficiency of the system. At the same time, this strategy enhances the scalability and adaptability of the system, enabling a single physical device to support more logical slaves, reducing hardware costs, and improving the flexibility and economy of the lighting system.

[0024] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The method provides a standardized API interface, which supports third-party control systems to manage all logical addresses through a unified configuration interface, perform batch parameter distribution and status synchronization monitoring, and reduce the operation and maintenance complexity in multi-device scenarios. By defining a set of standard JSON or XML format data interfaces, including core functions such as logical address management (e.g., creation, deletion, modification), parameter configuration (e.g., brightness, color temperature, RGB values, etc.), status query (e.g., switch status, current parameter value), and event notification (e.g., fault alarm), third-party control systems can call these APIs via HTTP / HTTPS protocols to achieve interaction with virtualized DALI slave stations, simplifying the multi-device management process. The technical solution provides a standardized API interface, bridging third-party control systems and enabling users to easily manage all logical addresses through a unified configuration interface. This design not only simplifies the operation and maintenance process in multi-device scenarios but also greatly improves the system's flexibility and scalability. Through batch parameter distribution and status synchronization monitoring, users can keep track of device status in real time, respond quickly to system changes, and effectively reduce operation and maintenance costs. In addition, the introduction of standardized API interfaces promotes interoperability between different systems, laying a solid foundation for the intelligent and integrated development of lighting systems.

[0025] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 8 The virtualization engine is designed based on a microcontroller platform with limited DALI slave resources, and allocates an independent bank area for each logical address to store configuration parameters for device type and channel binding. The microcontroller's memory is divided into multiple independent regions (bank areas), each corresponding to a logical address. Through a preset memory management algorithm, configuration parameters such as device type and channel binding relationship are written into the corresponding bank area, and an index is created for quick access and modification. By allocating an independent bank area for each logical address, not only is independent storage and fast access to configuration parameters ensured, but hardware resource management is also simplified. This design requires no additional hardware modules and can be implemented directly on a resource-constrained microcontroller, reducing system complexity and cost. At the same time, it supports dynamic reconfiguration, allowing flexible adjustment of the binding relationship between channels and logical addresses through a software interface, meeting the needs of mixed device types and independent control strategies, and enhancing the system's adaptability and scalability.

[0026] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 6 The method extends the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations through software definition, and performs abstract management of multi-channel hardware resources while adhering to protocol specifications. This supports functional iteration and scene adaptation of lighting systems and extends the device life cycle. By developing a dedicated virtualization software module that runs on a resource-constrained microcontroller, the module uses a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm (adapted to a 1200bps transmission rate) to parse DALI protocol instructions and dynamically forwards the instructions to the corresponding physical channels according to a predefined channel-address binding strategy, thereby realizing the abstract management of hardware resources and expanding the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations. By leveraging software-defined technology, the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations are cleverly expanded, enabling efficient and flexible abstract management of multi-channel hardware resources while adhering to the DALI protocol specifications. This innovation not only supports iterative upgrades of lighting system functions, allowing devices to adapt to ever-changing application scenarios, but also significantly extends the device's lifespan. Through virtualization technology, a single physical device is transformed into multiple logical slave stations, each of which can be independently configured as different types of devices (such as dimming and color temperature adjustment), greatly enhancing the system's flexibility and scalability. Meanwhile, lightweight instruction parsing algorithms and priority scheduling mechanisms ensure the real-time performance and reliability of instruction forwarding, enabling efficient operation even on resource-constrained microcontroller platforms.

[0027] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0028] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A virtualization method for DALI slave stations, characterized in that, By using software definition, a single multi-channel DALI power supply device can be virtualized into multiple logical slave devices, enabling a single physical device to support mixed device types and independent control strategies. Specifically, this includes: Multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism: Under the premise of complying with the DALI protocol's 64 address / bus limit, multiple output channels of physical devices are bound to independent logical addresses, and each logical address occupies a bus physical address and is configured as a specific device type; Channel-address binding strategy: Supports single-channel or dual-channel binding, with dynamic reconfiguration of remaining channels and real-time adjustment of binding relationships through the software interface; Protocol layer transparency: The device integrates a virtualization engine to parse the standard DALI commands sent by the main controller to the logical address and forwards the commands to the corresponding physical channel, thus shielding the complexity of hardware configuration.

2. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mixed configuration of the device type of the logical address includes any combination of DT6 and DT8, and a single physical device simultaneously supports multiple functional modes such as dimming, color temperature adjustment and RGB color adjustment.

3. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The channel-address binding supports dynamic reconfiguration, and parameters are sent in batches through the software interface to realize the channel allocation of logical addresses and the switching of device types.

4. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The virtualization engine has a built-in protocol instruction priority scheduling mechanism that manages the control instructions for logical addresses in a queue, taking into account the single 2-byte data transmission characteristic of the DALI protocol.

5. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The virtualization engine adopts a lightweight instruction parsing algorithm, which is adapted to the DALI protocol's 1200bps transmission rate and single 2-byte data characteristics. It realizes dynamic mapping between logical addresses and physical channels on resource-constrained microcontroller platforms without the need for additional hardware modules or complex operating systems.

6. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The multi-address dynamic allocation mechanism supports protocol compatibility conversion of logical addresses, and adapts the instruction set of the old DALI controller by virtualizing the DT8 device as a DT6 logical address.

7. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The channel-address binding strategy supports asymmetric channel allocation mode.

8. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The method provides a standardized API interface, enabling third-party control systems to manage all logical addresses through a unified configuration interface, and to perform batch parameter distribution and status synchronization monitoring.

9. The virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The virtualization engine is designed based on a microcontroller platform with limited DALI slave resources, and allocates an independent bank area for each logical address to store configuration parameters for device type and channel binding.

10. A virtualization method for a DALI slave station according to claim 1, characterized in that: The method extends the functional boundaries of DALI slave stations through software definition, and performs abstract management of multi-channel hardware resources while adhering to protocol specifications.

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