Wireless connectivity systems for multi-node device control systems, residential air conditioning systems

Abstract

This invention discloses a wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system and a residential air conditioning system. The wireless connection system includes: a first and a second wireless converter; in automatic port allocation mode, the first and second wireless converters establish a port mapping relationship between the candidate local signal port and the corresponding device node's level signal for each level signal to be allocated, according to a pre-stored signal allocation order; in normal operation mode, the transmitting wireless converter determines the changing level signal based on the stored port mapping relationship and sends a wireless communication data frame to the receiving wireless converter corresponding to the level signal according to a pre-stored level signal interaction relationship; the receiving wireless converter controls the output of the corresponding level signal based on the stored port mapping relationship and the wireless communication data frame. This invention can solve the wiring difficulties of mixing device nodes from different manufacturers.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of free wireless connection for multi-node device control systems, and in particular to a wireless connection system for multi-node device control systems, and a corresponding residential air conditioning system. Background Technology

[0002] In multi-node equipment control systems, there are typically main control devices, terminal execution devices, and sensor nodes. These nodes need to interact to achieve collaborative operation. As a typical example of a multi-node equipment control system, the residential air conditioning systems commonly found in the North American market consist of nodes such as outdoor units, indoor units, and thermostats. In this market, a connection method based on 24V AC switching signals has long been established. Thermostats send commands such as compressor start / stop and reversing valve switching to the outdoor unit in the form of high and low voltage levels by connecting or disconnecting different circuits, or transmit control signals such as fan speed adjustment to the indoor unit. Each controlled functional load requires an independent control line for physical connection. This 24V signal-based interface standardizes the control logic of each node in the form of simple switching signals, allowing thermostats, indoor units, and outdoor units from different manufacturers to be interchangeable and mixed as long as they adhere to the same 24V switching logic. When a node fails, it is relatively easy to purchase a replacement part with the corresponding function from the market, reducing reliance on specific brands during maintenance. However, in such systems, as the number of functional loads increases, the number of control lines required between nodes also increases. Control harnesses containing multiple wires are often needed between the thermostat and the indoor and outdoor units, leading to increased installation and wiring workload and higher requirements for wiring space. Too many physical connection points can also easily cause malfunctions due to wiring errors, aging lines, or poor contact, making system debugging and subsequent maintenance inconvenient. To simplify wiring, some manufacturers have introduced digital communication solutions into their product systems, converting multiple switching signals into data packets for transmission via two communication lines or a combined power and communication cable, thus significantly reducing the number of control cables. Different manufacturers' equipment differs in data frame format, interaction process, and pairing methods, and these are generally not publicly disclosed or compatible. In this case, an effective wired or wireless connection can only be established when the outdoor unit, indoor unit, and thermostat use a complete set of products from the same manufacturer. If the installation practice of mixing different brands of equipment, as is common in the North American market, is followed—for example, using a thermostat from one manufacturer with an outdoor and indoor unit from another manufacturer—the communication solutions based on proprietary protocols will make it difficult for the devices to recognize each other and exchange data, and the system will not function properly.

[0003] This issue is not limited to residential air conditioning systems; it is also evident in the broader evolution of multi-node device control systems towards wireless connectivity. In scenarios such as building automation, smart homes, and distributed industrial control, nodes such as sensors, actuators, and controllers often come from different suppliers. With traditional wired connections, a certain degree of cross-vendor interchangeability can be achieved through standardized analog or digital interfaces; however, when systems transition to wireless connectivity, each manufacturer's proprietary protocols make it difficult to freely establish wireless communication links between devices from different brands.

[0004] Therefore, in multi-node device control systems, how to provide a plug-and-play wireless connection system that enables wireless communication between device nodes from different brands is a technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the technical problem of limited wireless communication in existing multi-node device control systems, this invention proposes a wireless connection system and a residential air conditioning system for multi-node device control systems.

[0006] The technical solution adopted in this invention is to propose a wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system. The multi-node device control system includes multiple device nodes, and the device nodes have multiple level signals to be interacted with. The device nodes include a first device node and at least one second device node. The wireless connection system includes: a first wireless converter connected to the first device node and a second wireless converter connected to the second device node.

[0007] Both the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter have multiple local signal ports, including multiple input local signal ports and multiple output local signal ports;

[0008] In the automatic port allocation mode, the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter, according to the pre-stored signal allocation order, establish and store the port mapping relationship between the candidate local signal port and the corresponding device node's level signal among the candidate local signal ports that match the port type corresponding to the level signal for each level signal to be allocated.

[0009] In normal operation mode, when the transmitting wireless converter detects a change in the level state of its input local signal port, it determines the changed level signal according to the stored port mapping relationship, and sends a wireless communication data frame to the receiving wireless converter corresponding to the level signal according to the pre-stored level signal interaction relationship.

[0010] The receiving-side wireless converter controls its corresponding output local signal port to output a corresponding level signal to the device node it is electrically connected to, based on the stored port mapping relationship and the wireless communication data frame.

[0011] By connecting each device node to its corresponding wireless converter and using an automatic port allocation tool between the device node and the wireless converter, wireless communication between the device nodes can be achieved. This not only makes installation simple but also enables wireless connection between device nodes from different brands.

[0012] Furthermore, when multiple input local signal ports of the first wireless converter, which are greater than or equal to the first preset number of channels threshold, simultaneously receive valid level signals output by the first device node, it is determined that the automatic port allocation mode has been entered, and automatic port allocation mode information is sent to each of the second wireless converters.

[0013] The second wireless converter enters the automatic port allocation mode in response to the automatic port allocation mode information, and simultaneously outputs a valid level signal to the second device node electrically connected to it through a plurality of its output local signal ports that are greater than or equal to the second preset number of channels threshold.

[0014] When the second wireless converter detects that the corresponding second device node outputs a multi-channel response signal due to recognizing the valid level signal output by the plurality of output-type local signal ports, it sends an acknowledgment message to the first wireless converter.

[0015] After receiving the confirmation information, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs a valid level signal to the first device node through multiple output local signal ports of its output local signal ports that are greater than or equal to the third preset number of channels threshold, so that the first device node confirms that the wireless connection system has entered the port automatic allocation mode.

[0016] The port auto-assignment mode information includes at least a mode identifier.

[0017] Under normal circumstances, there are only a limited number of valid level signals (e.g., one) on the same side (input or output direction) of the communication wireless converter and the device node. This invention uses multiple wireless level signals (e.g., all input or output wireless level signals or a significantly larger number of valid level signals than usual) as confirmation signals in the automatic port allocation mode, which simplifies the connection lines between the wireless converter and the device node.

[0018] Furthermore, in the automatic port allocation mode, for the currently to be allocated level signal, the currently to be allocated level signal has a predetermined transmitting-side device node and at least one receiving-side device node;

[0019] When a transmitting-side wireless converter electrically connected to the transmitting-side device node detects a valid level signal output by the transmitting-side device node for the currently to-be-assigned level signal at one of its input local signal ports, it establishes an input port mapping relationship between the input local signal port and the currently to-be-assigned level signal, and sends a wireless communication data frame including the signal identifier of the currently to-be-assigned level signal.

[0020] After receiving the wireless communication data frame, the receiving-side wireless converter, which is electrically connected to the receiving-side device node, selects a candidate output port from the unassigned output-type local signal ports according to the port traversal order and outputs a valid level signal. If a response signal output by the receiving-side device node is detected within a preset confirmation time, an output-side port mapping relationship is established between the candidate output port and the currently assigned level signal. If the response signal is not detected within the preset confirmation time, the converter switches to the next unassigned output-type local signal port to continue outputting a valid level signal until the output-side port mapping relationship is established or the candidate output port traversal ends.

[0021] Automatic port allocation is achieved by sequentially traversing the corresponding ports on each device node in a predetermined order. The process is simple and reliable.

[0022] Furthermore, the first device node, acting as the allocation control node, sequentially determines the level signal to be allocated according to the signal allocation order;

[0023] When the currently assigned level signal is not an input signal or an output signal of the first device node, the first wireless converter, according to the level signal interaction relationship, sends a wireless communication data frame including the signal identifier of the currently assigned level signal to the transmitting-side wireless converter and / or the receiving-side wireless converter corresponding to the currently assigned level signal, so as to trigger the transmitting-side wireless converter and / or the receiving-side wireless converter to automatically assign ports to the currently assigned level signal.

[0024] The allocation control node of this invention can not only realize the signal mapping relationship between itself and other nodes, but also realize the signal mapping relationship between other nodes. In comparison, the port mapping function is more complete and has a wider range of applications.

[0025] Furthermore, the plurality of level signals to be interacted with include a basic signal and an extended signal, wherein the extended signal is represented by a combination of at least two assigned basic signals;

[0026] In the automatic port allocation mode, if the level signal to be allocated is the base signal, the wireless converter participating in the allocation will establish a port mapping relationship with the input local signal port that currently detects a valid level signal, or the output local signal port that currently outputs a valid level signal and obtains a response confirmation, and the base signal.

[0027] If the level signal to be allocated is an extended signal, the wireless converter participating in the allocation will detect or control the local signal ports of at least two basic signals corresponding to the extended signal to be in an effective level state at the same time, based on the established port mapping relationship of the basic signals, so as to form a combined level signal, and establish the port mapping relationship corresponding to the extended signal according to the combined level signal.

[0028] This invention combines multiple signals into an extended signal, achieving the interaction of more level signals with a limited number of ports.

[0029] Furthermore, after all the level signals to be assigned have been automatically assigned to the ports, the first device node notifies the first wireless converter that the port automatic assignment is complete by simultaneously outputting valid level signals to its multiple output ports.

[0030] The second wireless converter notifies the corresponding second device node port to automatically complete the port allocation by simultaneously outputting valid level signals through its multiple output-type local signal ports.

[0031] The second wireless converter sends an exit confirmation message to the first wireless converter;

[0032] After receiving the exit confirmation information, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs valid level signals to the first device node through its multiple output local signal ports to notify the first device node to exit the automatic port allocation mode.

[0033] This invention also employs unconventional multi-input or output methods to achieve final confirmation in the automatic port allocation mode, which simplifies the connection lines between the corresponding wireless converter and the corresponding device node.

[0034] Furthermore, the wireless communication data frame includes a function code field and a valid data field;

[0035] The function code field is used to indicate whether the wireless communication data frame is port auto-assignment mode information, pending level signal information, confirmation information, exit confirmation information, or abnormal information.

[0036] The valid data field is used to carry at least one of the mode identifier, the signal identifier of the level signal to be assigned, the source node identifier, the target node identifier, and the acknowledgment identifier.

[0037] The wireless communication data frame of this invention is a relatively universal wireless communication data frame, which can be adapted to the wireless converter of this invention.

[0038] Furthermore, both the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter include a processing module, a wireless communication module, a storage module, and a port group;

[0039] The port group includes a plurality of local signal ports, each local signal port being configured with an input detection circuit for detecting a valid level signal and / or an output drive circuit for outputting a valid level signal;

[0040] The storage module is used to store the port mapping relationship, the signal allocation order, and the level signal interaction relationship.

[0041] The wireless converter of this invention also adopts a universal structure, which is low in cost and easy to mass-produce.

[0042] The present invention proposes a residential air conditioning system, including the wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system as described in any of the above technical solutions. The first device node is a thermostat, the second device node includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and the second wireless converter includes an indoor unit wireless converter electrically connected to the indoor unit and an outdoor unit wireless converter electrically connected to the outdoor unit.

[0043] By adopting the wireless connection system of this invention, residential air conditioning systems can achieve wireless communication between device nodes, avoiding long-distance wiring between device nodes.

[0044] Furthermore, the level signals to be exchanged between the thermostat, indoor unit, and outdoor unit include basic signals and extended signals;

[0045] The basic signal includes at least two of the following: Y signal, B signal, W signal, and G signal;

[0046] The extended signal includes at least one of a D signal, a Y1 signal, and a H signal, wherein the D signal is represented by a combination of a Y signal and a B signal, and the Y1 signal is represented by a combination of a Y signal and a W signal.

[0047] By dividing signals into basic signals and extended signals, a limited number of hardware ports can be used to enable the interaction of more signals.

[0048] This invention provides a wireless connection system, which includes a first wireless converter and at least one second wireless converter. By connecting device nodes of different brands to their corresponding wireless converters, and then connecting each device node according to the wireless connection system of this invention, seamless wireless communication between device nodes of different brands can be achieved in normal operating mode. Moreover, when the device nodes and wireless converters are connected by wires, there is no need to pay attention to the one-to-one correspondence between ports and signals, reducing installation difficulty. When the wireless connection system of this invention is applied to residential units, each node such as the outdoor unit, indoor unit, and thermostat is connected to its corresponding wireless converter. The wireless converter includes 24V signal input detection and output control for the device node, and wireless communication is mainly used for the interaction of 24V control signals. This is equivalent to changing the control and detection signals that were originally interacted through signal lines to wireless interaction, thereby avoiding long-distance wiring between the outdoor unit, indoor unit, and thermostat, solving the pain points of the current market. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0050] Figure 1 This is a system architecture diagram of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of automatic port allocation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 3 This is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of the present invention for automatic port allocation;

[0053] Figure 4(a) is a schematic diagram of the first extended signal representation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 4(b) is a schematic diagram of the second extended signal representation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 4(c) is a schematic diagram of the reserved signal representation according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 5(a) is a schematic diagram of the connection between the outdoor unit and the outdoor unit wireless converter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 5(b) is a schematic diagram of the connection between the indoor unit and the indoor unit wireless converter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 5(c) is a schematic diagram of the connection between the temperature controller and the first wireless converter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between a debugging tool and a wireless converter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a wireless converter according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the signal routing of a temperature control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To make the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0063] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method that enables wireless communication between nodes of any brand in a multi-node device control system through a plug-and-play wireless converter.

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, the wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system proposed in this invention includes multiple device nodes, and the device nodes have multiple level signals to be interacted with, indicating a data communication requirement between the device nodes. Each device node includes a first device node and one or more second device nodes. The first device node is typically a control node, and the second device nodes can be sensor nodes and / or controlled nodes.

[0065] The wireless connectivity system includes a first wireless converter and at least one second wireless converter. Both the first and second wireless converters have multiple local signal ports, including multiple input local signal ports and multiple output local signal ports.

[0066] The first wireless converter is electrically connected to the first device node of the multi-node device control system, which is typically the master node and serves as the control node.

[0067] The second wireless converter is electrically connected to the second device node of the multi-node device control system. This second device node is typically a slave node, such as a controlled node (e.g., a load node), a sensor node, etc.

[0068] There are multiple level signals to be exchanged between the first device node and the second device node. When there are multiple second device nodes, there may also be at least one level signal to be exchanged between at least two second device nodes. The first wireless converter and the second wireless converter need to enable the transmission of these level signals between the first device node and the second device node, and between the second device nodes, via wireless communication.

[0069] In the automatic port allocation mode, the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter, according to the pre-stored signal allocation order, establish and store the port mapping relationship between the candidate local signal port and the corresponding device node's level signal among the candidate local signal ports that match the port type corresponding to the level signal for each level signal to be allocated.

[0070] In normal operation mode, when the transmitting wireless converter detects a change in the level state of its input local signal port, it determines the changed level signal according to the stored port mapping relationship, and sends a wireless communication data frame to the receiving wireless converter corresponding to the level signal according to the pre-stored level signal interaction relationship.

[0071] The receiving-side wireless converter controls its corresponding output local signal port to output the corresponding level signal to the device node it is electrically connected to, based on the stored port mapping relationship and wireless communication data frame.

[0072] Level signal interaction relationships refer to the relationships between level signals to be exchanged between device nodes, also known as level routing relationships. For example, if a first device node needs to send signals A, B, and C to one of the second device nodes, or if a first device node needs to send signals C, D, and E to another device node, or if one device node needs to send signal F to another device node, these level signal interaction relationships are based on the existing interaction relationships of the multi-node device control system and do not require reconfiguration. However, each device node stores or knows its corresponding interaction object and the level signals to be exchanged.

[0073] In normal operation mode, the transmitting-side wireless converter can be either a first wireless converter or a second wireless converter. When the transmitting-side wireless converter is the first wireless converter, the receiving-side wireless converter can be any second wireless converter based on the level signal interaction relationship; when the transmitting-side wireless converter is the second wireless converter, the receiving-side wireless converter can be either a first wireless converter based on the level signal interaction relationship or any second wireless converter.

[0074] This invention, before normal operation, automatically establishes port mapping relationships in automatic port allocation mode and sends wireless communication data frames in conjunction with signal routing relationships during normal operation. This enables multiple device nodes to achieve reliable communication through a wireless converter even after random wiring. This solution allows device nodes to complete wireless replacement connections for existing wired signals using a universal wireless converter, without requiring them to possess their own wireless communication capabilities.

[0075] In the above embodiments, each brand's device node only needs to connect to the corresponding wireless converter and then perform the corresponding actions in the above manner to achieve wireless connection between device nodes of different brands. Moreover, when the device node is connected to the wireless converter, the installer does not need to pay attention to the one-to-one correspondence between the device node and each port of the wireless converter. They only need to connect the wires according to the signal transmission direction. This not only avoids the tediousness of wiring, but also enables automatic port allocation, solving the wireless communication barrier between different brands.

[0076] In a further embodiment, when multiple input local signal ports of the first wireless converter, which are greater than or equal to a first preset number of channels threshold, simultaneously receive valid level signals output by the first device node, it is determined that the port automatic allocation mode has been entered, and port automatic allocation mode information is sent to each of the second wireless converters.

[0077] The second wireless converter enters the automatic port allocation mode in response to the port automatic allocation mode information, and simultaneously outputs a valid level signal to the second device node electrically connected to it through multiple output local signal ports that are greater than or equal to the second preset number of channels.

[0078] When the second wireless converter detects that the corresponding second device node outputs a multi-channel response signal due to recognizing the valid level signal output by multiple output local signal ports, it sends an acknowledgment message to the first wireless converter.

[0079] After receiving the confirmation information, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs a valid level signal to the first device node through multiple output local signal ports of its output local signal ports that are greater than or equal to the third preset number of channels threshold, so that the first device node confirms that the wireless connection system has entered the port automatic allocation mode.

[0080] The port auto-assignment mode information includes at least a mode identifier.

[0081] This embodiment enables the first wireless converter to identify the automatic port allocation trigger state based on multiple simultaneous inputs that deviate from the normal operating state, through multiple valid level signals output by the first device node. This method eliminates the need for an additional independent mode switching line or dedicated button interface, thus simplifying the hardware structure. The first wireless converter can output multiple valid level signals in response to user operation, or it can output multiple valid level signals upon initial power-on after installation to enter the automatic port allocation mode.

[0082] like Figure 2 As shown, in a more specific embodiment, the processing flow of the first device node in the port auto-assignment mode triggering process is as follows.

[0083] The first device node responds to the user operation and enters the port automatic allocation trigger state;

[0084] The first device node simultaneously outputs multiple valid level signals to the first wireless converter;

[0085] The first wireless converter detects the level status of each of its local signal ports and counts the number of simultaneously input valid level signals;

[0086] Determine whether the number of routes has reached the first preset route threshold;

[0087] If the target is reached, then enter the automatic port allocation mode;

[0088] If the target is not met, the system will remain in normal operating mode or will not enter automatic allocation mode.

[0089] In a further embodiment, in the automatic port allocation mode, for the currently to-be-allocated level signal, the currently to-be-allocated level signal has a predetermined transmitting-side device node and at least one receiving-side device node.

[0090] When a transmitter-side wireless converter electrically connected to a transmitter-side device node detects a valid level signal output by the transmitter-side device node for the currently assigned level signal at one of its input local signal ports, it establishes an input port mapping relationship between the input local signal port and the currently assigned level signal, and transmits a wireless communication data frame including the signal identifier of the currently assigned level signal.

[0091] After receiving a wireless communication data frame, the receiving-side wireless converter, which is electrically connected to the receiving-side device node, selects a candidate output port from the unassigned output-type local signal ports according to the port traversal order to output a valid level signal. If a response signal is detected from the receiving-side device node within a preset confirmation time, an output-side port mapping relationship is established between the candidate output port and the currently assigned level signal. If no response signal is detected within the preset confirmation time, the converter switches to the next unassigned output-type local signal port to continue outputting a valid level signal until the output-side port mapping relationship is established or the candidate output port traversal ends.

[0092] This embodiment enables fully automatic allocation of all input and output ports of the wireless converter even with random wiring, eliminating the hassle of manually configuring port definitions for wireless converter communication. Furthermore, this embodiment determines the transmitting and receiving sides corresponding to the current signal level based on the signal allocation order and signal routing relationship, avoiding limiting port allocation to unidirectional communication and enabling the same mechanism to cover bidirectional transmission scenarios of control and feedback signals.

[0093] like Figure 3As shown, the fully automatic allocation process of the present invention is illustrated by taking the first wireless converter electrically connected to the first device node as an example.

[0094] The first wireless converter detects multiple valid level signals from the first device node;

[0095] Determine whether the number of simultaneously input valid level signals is greater than or equal to the first preset channel number threshold; if so, enter the automatic port allocation mode; otherwise, maintain the normal operation mode or do not enter the automatic port allocation mode.

[0096] The first wireless converter sends port auto-assignment mode information to the second wireless converter;

[0097] The type of the current level signal to be allocated is determined according to the pre-stored signal allocation order, as well as the transmitting-side device node, transmitting-side wireless converter, receiving-side device node, and receiving-side wireless converter corresponding to the current level signal to be allocated;

[0098] Establish port mapping on the first wireless converter side, and switch to the next level signal to be assigned after a certain time interval;

[0099] Send the wireless communication data frame corresponding to the level signal to be assigned to the second wireless converter;

[0100] The second wireless converter outputs a test level signal to the second device node it is electrically connected to, and establishes a port mapping relationship on the second wireless converter side based on the response signal, and then switches to the allocation of the next local signal port;

[0101] Once all the level signals to be assigned have been assigned, the system enters normal operation mode and performs wireless communication signal to level signal conversion.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first device node, acting as the allocation control node, sequentially determines the level signal to be allocated according to the signal allocation order;

[0103] When the level signal to be assigned is not the input or output signal of the first device node, the first wireless converter sends a wireless communication data frame including the signal identifier of the level signal to be assigned to the transmitting wireless converter and / or receiving wireless converter corresponding to the level signal to be assigned, according to the level signal interaction relationship, so as to trigger the transmitting wireless converter and / or receiving wireless converter to automatically assign the current level signal to be assigned to the port.

[0104] In this embodiment, the first device node is used as the allocation control node. Even if the first device is not the transmitting or receiving device node of the level signal to be allocated, the port of the level signal to be allocated can be automatically allocated, which has a high degree of automation.

[0105] In one embodiment, when the first wireless converter and / or the second wireless converter allocate local signal ports according to a pre-stored signal allocation order, it can be further divided into two cases: port mapping of basic signals and port mapping of extended signals.

[0106] In other words, the multiple level signals to be interacted include basic signals and extended signals, and the extended signals are represented by a combination of at least two assigned basic signals;

[0107] In the automatic port allocation mode, if the level signal to be allocated is the base signal, the wireless converter participating in the allocation will establish a port mapping relationship with the input local signal port that currently detects a valid level signal, or the output local signal port that currently outputs a valid level signal and obtains a response confirmation, and the base signal.

[0108] If the level signal to be allocated is an extended signal, the wireless converter participating in the allocation will detect or control the local signal ports of at least two basic signals corresponding to the extended signal to be in an effective level state at the same time, based on the established port mapping relationship of the basic signals, so as to form a combined level signal, and establish the port mapping relationship corresponding to the extended signal according to the combined level signal.

[0109] This embodiment distinguishes between basic signals and extended signals, allowing for the initial port mapping of basic signals. Then, combinations of already assigned basic signals are used to represent extended signals, enabling a limited number of basic signal ports to express more unassigned level signals. This scheme can complete the allocation of extended function ports without adding additional dedicated identification ports, improving port resource utilization and enhancing the system's compatibility with complex device signals.

[0110] As shown in Figures 4(a) to 4(c), based on the established mapping relationship of the basic signal ports, when the port corresponding to the Y signal and the port corresponding to the B signal output simultaneously, it is identified as the extended signal D; when the port corresponding to the Y signal and the port corresponding to the W signal output simultaneously, it is identified as the extended signal Y1; and when some ports output simultaneously, they can also be used as reserved signals, for example, when the port corresponding to the B signal and the port corresponding to the W signal output simultaneously, they are used as reserved signals.

[0111] This embodiment uses a residential air conditioning system as an example to explain the basic signals and extended signals of the level signals to be assigned. By combining the basic signals to represent the extended signals, the resource utilization of the ports can be improved.

[0112] In one embodiment, after all the level signals to be assigned have been automatically assigned to the ports, the first device node notifies the first wireless converter that the port automatic assignment is complete by simultaneously outputting valid level signals to its multiple output ports.

[0113] The second wireless converter notifies the corresponding second device node port to automatically complete port allocation by simultaneously outputting valid level signals through its multiple output-type local signal ports.

[0114] The second wireless converter sends an exit confirmation message to the first wireless converter;

[0115] After receiving the exit confirmation information, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs valid level signals to the first device node through its multiple output local signal ports to notify the first device node to exit the port automatic allocation mode.

[0116] After port allocation is completed, this invention also introduces an automatic port allocation mode through an automatic confirmation process, without the need for manual intervention.

[0117] In one specific embodiment, the wireless communication data frame of the present invention includes a function code field and a valid data field.

[0118] The function code field is used to indicate whether the wireless communication data frame automatically assigns mode information, basic signal information, acknowledgment information, or error information to the port.

[0119] The valid data field is used for at least one of the following: bearer mode identifier, signal identifier of basic signal, transmitter-side device node identifier, receiver-side device node identifier, and valid time.

[0120] The table below illustrates the format of a wireless communication data frame.

[0121]

[0122] Table 1. Format diagram of wireless communication data frames

[0123] This wireless communication data frame adds corresponding fields to the existing wireless communication data frame. The function code field in the wireless communication data frame distinguishes the port automatic allocation mode information, basic signal type information, confirmation information or abnormal information. The valid data field carries the mode identifier, type identifier and node identifier, etc., so that the wireless interaction in the automatic allocation process has a clear data carrying structure.

[0124] In one specific embodiment, both the first and second wireless converters include a processing module, a wireless communication module, a storage module, and a port group. The port group includes multiple local signal ports, which can be further divided into input-type local signal ports and output-type local signal ports; that is, the port group contains multiple input ports and / or multiple output ports. Each local signal port is configured with an input detection circuit for detecting valid level signals and / or an output driving circuit for outputting valid level signals. The storage module stores port mapping relationships, signal allocation order, and level signal interaction relationships.

[0125] This embodiment demonstrates that the wireless converter of the present invention can employ a general-purpose converter and forms a complete structure for local level detection, wireless communication, mapping storage, and level output. The local signal port can detect and / or output valid level signals, making the system compatible with both input / output discrete ports and bidirectional ports.

[0126] like Figure 7 As shown, the general-purpose wireless converter of the present invention includes a power module, a 24V input module, a 24V output module, a wireless communication module, a storage module, a processing module, and a port group. This general-purpose wireless converter can be used as both a first wireless converter and a second wireless converter.

[0127] The present invention also includes an exception handling mechanism.

[0128] If a device node mistakenly enters the automatic port allocation mode due to an anomaly, it needs to perform a secondary confirmation based on the subsequently received current allocation signal information, signal allocation order, and wireless communication data frames. If the device node determines that the subsequent port allocation step does not match the allocation signal it should currently participate in, or if it does not receive the corresponding wireless communication data frame or port signal within a preset waiting time, it will proactively exit the automatic port allocation mode and return to normal operation or standby mode. Therefore, even if multiple ports are simultaneously abnormal and cause a node to mistakenly enter the automatic port allocation mode, it can automatically exit based on the subsequent signal allocation order and timeliness, reducing the risk of mismatch.

[0129] In a further embodiment, the confirmation information in the automatic port allocation process is set with a validity period. Taking a device node as an example, the confirmation information may include at least one of the following: confirmation information for the device node entering the automatic port allocation mode, confirmation information for the device node receiving the currently assigned signal, confirmation information for the wireless converter completing the current port matching, and confirmation information for exiting the automatic port allocation mode. If the confirmation information is not received or does not receive a subsequent process response after the corresponding preset validity period, the receiving side or the initiating side determines that the confirmation information is invalid and continues to execute according to the preset exception handling logic.

[0130] In a specific example, for a given signal to be assigned, such as signal D, if the receiving wireless converter needs to determine the port connected to the corresponding D port of the device node from multiple candidate output-type local signal ports, the receiving wireless converter sequentially selects unassigned candidate output-type local signal ports in port traversal order and outputs a valid level signal. If the current candidate output-type local signal port does not match the D port of the device node, the device node will not output a response signal related to a successful match of the D signal within the corresponding confirmation time. After the output time of the current candidate port expires, the receiving wireless converter switches to the next candidate output-type local signal port to continue outputting a valid level signal. If the current candidate output-type local signal port matches the D port of the device node, the device node outputs a response signal within the corresponding confirmation time. Based on this, the receiving wireless converter establishes and stores a port mapping relationship between the current candidate output-type local signal port and the D signal.

[0131] In the event of port matching failure, if the receiving wireless converter has completed the output of all candidate output-type local signal ports in the port traversal order, and still has not received a matching success response signal from the device node within the corresponding confirmation time, the receiving wireless converter determines that the port matching of the current signal to be allocated has failed and generates corresponding abnormal information. For a temperature controller, if the temperature controller has not received the matching success information corresponding to the current signal to be allocated, or has not detected the input signal corresponding to the current signal to be allocated, within a preset waiting time longer than the time required for the receiving wireless converter to complete the traversal of all candidate output-type local signal ports, the temperature controller determines that the port matching of the current signal to be allocated has failed, records the port matching failure information, and outputs an abnormal reminder message through the display interface, indicator lights, buzzer, or wireless communication after the automatic port allocation process is completed.

[0132] In a further embodiment, the automatic port allocation process also includes handling duplicate port conflicts. If, during the port matching process for the current signal to be allocated, multiple candidate local signal ports corresponding to the same signal to be allocated all detect valid level signals, or if the same device node receives valid level signals from two or more ports simultaneously for the same signal to be allocated, the wireless converter or device node determines that there is a duplicate port conflict for the current signal to be allocated. In this case, the wireless converter or device node does not directly confirm any conflicting port as the port corresponding to the signal to be allocated, but records the duplicate port conflict exception information and outputs an exception reminder message after the entire automatic port allocation process is completed.

[0133] In a further embodiment, the automatic port allocation process also includes port missing handling. If, for the current signal to be allocated, the receiving-side wireless converter fails to receive a successful matching response from the corresponding device node after traversing all candidate local signal ports, or the initiating-side device node fails to detect a valid input signal corresponding to the current signal to be allocated within a preset waiting time, it is determined that the port corresponding to the current signal to be allocated is missing or the wiring is abnormal. The wireless converter or device node records the port missing abnormality information and outputs an abnormality reminder after the entire automatic port allocation process is completed. The abnormality reminder information may include at least one of the following: abnormal signal type, abnormal node identifier, abnormal port type, and abnormal reason.

[0134] In a further embodiment, the automatic port allocation process also includes power-down handling. If all device nodes lose power during the automatic port allocation process, each device node and each wireless converter exits the current automatic port allocation process after the power-down. After power is restored, each device node and each wireless converter can enter normal operation mode, or restart the automatic port allocation process after receiving a new automatic port allocation trigger signal.

[0135] In a further embodiment, after all signals to be assigned have completed port matching, a consistency verification process can be performed. The consistency verification process includes: each wireless converter, based on the stored port mapping relationship, no longer performs candidate port traversal, but instead sequentially controls the local signal port corresponding to each assigned signal to output a valid level signal, or sequentially detects the valid level signal of the local signal port corresponding to each assigned signal, according to the pre-stored signal allocation order; the corresponding device node outputs a response signal according to the signal allocation order. If all assigned signals can complete the response within the corresponding confirmation time, the port mapping relationship consistency verification is deemed successful, and the automatic port allocation is confirmed to be successful. If any assigned signal fails to complete the response within the corresponding confirmation time during the consistency verification process, or if any of the following anomalies occurs: duplicate port conflict, port missing, or signal order mismatch, the port mapping relationship consistency verification is deemed to have failed, the anomaly information is recorded, and an anomaly alert is output.

[0136] In a further embodiment, the wireless communication data frames transmitted between wireless converters may include a preamble, a synchronization word, a frame length field, a destination address field, a source address field, an identification field, a frame code field, a function code field, a valid data field, and a CRC check field.

[0137] The preamble is used to configure the radio frequency hardware. The preamble can include 0xFF and 0xFE, with 0xFF preceding 0xFE. When transmitting wireless communication data frames, the preamble can be actively added; when receiving wireless communication data frames and parsing the data, the preamble can be omitted from the frame content.

[0138] The synchronization word is used to indicate the start position of a wireless communication data frame. The synchronization word can be two consecutive 0x7E characters.

[0139] The frame length field is used to indicate the length of the wireless communication data frame. In one specific embodiment, the frame length field is set to the number of valid data points plus 11.

[0140] The destination address field indicates the address of the receiver to which the wireless communication data frame is sent. The source address field indicates the address of the sender of the wireless communication data frame.

[0141] The identity field is used to represent the unique identity ID of the wireless converter itself.

[0142] The frame code field is used to distinguish multiple wireless communication data frames when the same device needs to send multiple frames to the same target address. In one specific embodiment, the frame code field is 0x01.

[0143] The function code field is used to indicate the type of the current wireless communication data frame. The type of wireless communication data frame may include at least one of the following: port auto-assignment mode information, current signal to be assigned information, basic signal information, extended signal information, acknowledgment information, error information, and exit information.

[0144] The valid data field is used to carry the data content corresponding to the function code field. The valid data field may include at least one of the following: mode identifier, current signal to be assigned identifier, basic signal identifier, extended signal identifier, source node identifier, target node identifier, candidate port number, confirmation validity time, exception type, exception node identifier, and exception signal type.

[0145] The CRC checksum field is used to verify wireless communication data frames. The CRC checksum field can be the CRC checksum of all bytes from the frame length field to the bytes preceding the CRC checksum field, excluding the CRC checksum field itself.

[0146] The corresponding wireless communication data frame formats are shown in the table below.

[0147]

[0148] Table 2. Schematic diagram of wireless communication data frame format

[0149] In practical applications, the node device control system can be a temperature control system, building automation system, smart home system, or distributed industrial control system. By limiting the multi-node device control system to a device control system that uses electrical signals for control or status interaction, this wireless connectivity system can be applied to a wider range of multi-node control scenarios.

[0150] The present invention also protects residential air conditioning systems, which include wireless connection systems for multi-node device control systems comprising any of the above-described technical solutions or combinations thereof.

[0151] In this specific application embodiment, the multi-node device control system of the present invention is actually a temperature control system, the first device node is a temperature controller, and the second device node includes an indoor unit and / or an outdoor unit.

[0152] The first wireless converter is configured to be powered independently and supply 24V power to the thermostat, detect at least one of the Y, B, W and G signals output by the thermostat, and monitor the on / off status of the D signal emitted by the indoor unit via wireless communication.

[0153] The indoor unit wireless converter is configured to receive 24V power from the indoor unit, monitor at least one of the Y, B, W and G signals emitted by the thermostat via wireless communication, control the corresponding output-type local signal port to output a 24V signal to the indoor unit, and detect the D signal output by the indoor unit.

[0154] The outdoor unit wireless converter is configured to be powered independently and supply 24V power to the outdoor unit. It monitors the B signal emitted by the thermostat and the Y1 and / or D signals emitted by the indoor unit via wireless communication, and controls the corresponding output-type local signal port to output a 24V signal to the outdoor unit.

[0155] When this invention is applied to a temperature control system, even if the number of indoor and outdoor units increases, the amount of wiring work during installation can be reduced, and wireless communication between indoor and outdoor units, and between indoor and outdoor units and the temperature controller can be realized.

[0156] This solution is particularly suitable for scenarios involving mixed use of different brands of equipment, retrofitting of old systems, and rapid on-site replacement installations, and can reduce the difficulty of wiring configuration.

[0157] like Figure 8 As shown, in a further specific embodiment, the basic signal includes at least two of the following: Y signal, B signal, W signal, and G signal;

[0158] The extended signal includes at least one of the D signal, Y1 signal, and H signal;

[0159] The D signal is represented by a combination of the Y and B signals, and the Y1 signal is represented by a combination of the Y and W signals.

[0160] By using Y, B, W, and G as basic signals, and Y+B to represent the D signal and Y+W to represent the Y1 signal, extended function signals can be identified using existing basic port combinations in the temperature control system. This scheme can automatically allocate extended signals such as D, Y1, and H without adding additional dedicated identification circuitry, improving the completeness of automatic port identification in the temperature control system.

[0161] The above-mentioned level signals are commonly used input and output terminals of residential air conditioning systems. Y represents the level signal related to the compressor to be interacted with on the outdoor unit side, Y1 represents the level signal related to the compressor to be interacted with on the indoor unit side, B represents the level signal related to the four-way valve to be interacted with, D represents the level signal related to refrigerant leakage to be interacted with, W1 represents the level signal related to the primary boiler to be interacted with, W2 represents the level signal related to the secondary boiler to be interacted with, and G represents the level signal related to the indoor fan to be interacted with.

[0162] The first wireless converter, electrically connected to the thermostat, requires its own power supply and must provide 24V power to the thermostat. It also needs to detect the Y / B / W / G signals output by the thermostat via hardware circuitry, and simultaneously monitor the D signal switching from the indoor unit via communication monitoring. Furthermore, it must output a 24V signal to the thermostat's D port via its hardware circuitry control port. The switching status of all relevant signals is then published to the wireless network bus via wireless communication.

[0163] The wireless converter for the indoor unit, which is electrically connected to the indoor unit, needs to be powered by 24V from the indoor unit. It also needs to monitor the Y / B / W / G switch status of the thermostat via wireless communication, and then control the output of 24V signal to the corresponding port of the indoor unit through hardware circuit. It synchronously detects the D signal output by the indoor unit, and finally publishes the switch status of the relevant signals to the wireless network bus via wireless communication.

[0164] The outdoor unit wireless converter, which is electrically connected to the outdoor unit, needs to be powered separately and provide 24V power to the outdoor unit. It also needs to monitor the B switch status issued by the thermostat and the Y1 / D switch status issued by the indoor unit through wireless communication, and then control the output of 24V signal to the corresponding port of the outdoor unit. Finally, the switch status of the relevant signals is published to the wireless network bus through wireless communication.

[0165] Since the indoor and outdoor wireless converters are universal, the connection diagram is shown in Figure 5 when the device nodes can follow the actions of the device nodes in the above embodiments. If the device nodes cannot follow the actions of the device nodes in the above embodiments, debugging tools can be used as an alternative, and the connection diagram is shown in Figure 5. Figure 6 As shown.

[0166] During installation, installers do not need to record the specific purpose of each port in advance. They only need to connect the wires arbitrarily according to the input and output signal categories. After connecting the wires, they can communicate with the wireless converter through a debugging tool. The communication content involves selecting the specific meaning of each local signal port, for example... Figure 6 In the diagram, local signal port "Input 1" corresponds to the Y signal input, local signal port "Input 2" corresponds to the B signal input, local signal port "Output 1" corresponds to the D signal output, and so on. Unused ports are uniformly selected as NULL, indicating that no control or detection is required. Installers only need to select the corresponding local signal port meaning according to the actual wiring of the current device node. After confirmation, the corresponding wireless converter will store the relevant mapping relationship.

[0167] The following solution can achieve fully automatic allocation of all local signal ports for the outdoor unit, indoor unit, thermostat, and their corresponding wireless converters with random wiring, eliminating the hassle of using debugging tools and carefully configuring port definitions when communicating with the wireless converter.

[0168] Users can enter the automatic port allocation mode by operating the thermostat.

[0169] All output ports of the thermostat output 24V signals simultaneously. In one specific embodiment, the thermostat contains 4 or more output signals. In normal operation mode, the output of each port is sequential and will not be output simultaneously.

[0170] If the first wireless converter connected to the thermostat detects four or more 24V signal inputs simultaneously, it determines that the current mode is automatic port allocation and then performs the following steps.

[0171] The automatic port allocation mode is transmitted to the corresponding second wireless converters of the indoor and outdoor units via wireless network.

[0172] After receiving the information, the wireless converters of the indoor and outdoor units will also enter the automatic port allocation mode and simultaneously output all their output port signals to the indoor or outdoor unit.

[0173] When the indoor and outdoor units detect multiple 24V signal inputs simultaneously (e.g., 4 or more signals; the number is not fixed and can be pre-defined according to their actual situation), they will also enter the port allocation mode and output all their output signals to the indoor and outdoor wireless converters that are electrically connected to them.

[0174] After receiving the input signal, the indoor unit wireless converter and the outdoor unit wireless converter determine that the indoor unit or the outdoor unit has successfully received the information. At this time, they will send the confirmation information back to the first wireless converter of the thermostat.

[0175] After receiving confirmation messages from the indoor and outdoor units, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs a 24V signal from all its output ports.

[0176] Once the thermostat's input port receives the corresponding 24V signal, it determines that all wireless converters have successfully received the information and will automatically assign ports.

[0177] During automatic port allocation, the thermostat begins port allocation according to a pre-stored signal allocation sequence, such as Y / B / W / G / D / Y1 / H. This sequence is pre-defined for all device nodes in the network, including the corresponding wireless converters. Furthermore, the thermostat inherently has four ports: Y / B / W / G. Therefore, extended signal definitions can be identified through combinations of the outputs of these four signal terminals. For example, Y / B / W / G can represent the allocation of four loads: compressor, four-way valve, auxiliary heating, and internal fan, respectively. Then, the combination of Y and B can represent the allocation of signal D, the combination of Y and W can represent the allocation of signal Y1, and so on, representing a total of 16 different signal allocations.

[0178] Similarly, indoor wireless converters and outdoor wireless converters can also transmit the currently assigned port signal in the same way as described above.

[0179] Take the Y signal allocation as an example.

[0180] When the thermostat sends a 24V signal through the Y port, one bit in the input port of the first wireless converter corresponding to the thermostat will receive the corresponding level signal. Since it is the first level signal to be assigned, the first wireless converter can directly define the input port of the local signal port as the level signal Y or the Y port of the thermostat and record it.

[0181] The first wireless converter, which is electrically connected to the thermostat, will synchronously send the wireless communication data frame corresponding to the Y signal to the indoor and outdoor units.

[0182] After receiving the wireless communication data frame corresponding to the Y signal, the wireless converter of the indoor unit, which is electrically connected to the indoor unit, outputs a 24V signal starting from its first unassigned output port.

[0183] The indoor unit determines that it is currently allocating the first level signal Y (this order is pre-defined). If its own Y input port detects the corresponding Y signal, it will simultaneously output signals from all its output ports to confirm. When the indoor unit's wireless converter receives the input signal, it determines that the indoor unit's Y port has successfully received the information. It then establishes a mapping relationship between the currently outputting 24V signal output port and the indoor unit's Y port, or maps the currently outputting 24V signal output port to the indoor unit's Y level signal input port, thus achieving port allocation.

[0184] Let's take the D signal allocation as an example again.

[0185] The thermostat is activated by a combination of Y and B signals, indicating that a D signal is currently being distributed.

[0186] The first wireless converter connected to the thermostat has completed the allocation and confirmation of the four signals Y / B / W / G in the previous steps. Therefore, it can recognize the combination signal of Y and B, and then determine that the current allocation is D signal. At this time, it sends the wireless communication data frame corresponding to the D signal to the wireless converter of the indoor unit and the wireless converter of the outdoor unit connected to the indoor unit.

[0187] After the indoor unit's wireless converter receives the wireless communication data frame corresponding to the D signal, it will simultaneously output a signal to the indoor unit via the combination of Y and B (this combination is also pre-defined; the Y and B signals are allocated before the D signal is allocated). After receiving the combined signal, the indoor unit will start its own D signal output. After receiving the signal, the indoor unit's wireless converter can allocate the local signal port as the D port input. After the port is allocated, it will synchronously send an acknowledgment message to the first wireless converter connected to the thermostat. The outdoor unit's D signal processing method is the same.

[0188] After receiving confirmation information from the indoor and outdoor units, the first wireless converter connected to the thermostat will output its first port signal, starting from the first output port. If the corresponding port of the thermostat receives the corresponding input, it can feed back to the first wireless converter to start establishing a mapping relationship. If the first wireless converter does not receive feedback, it means that the first output port is not the corresponding port. The first wireless converter will continue to switch to the first output port to output, and output to the output ports that have not established a mapping relationship one by one until it receives feedback from the thermostat or all output ports have finished outputting.

[0189] If the thermostat receives a signal at port D, it determines that the current port is a port D input and directly switches to the allocation process of the next port; if the thermostat does not receive a signal for a period of time, it remains inactive.

[0190] If the first wireless converter connected to the thermostat does not receive a switching signal from the thermostat within a certain period of time, it will switch to the next port output until the thermostat switches to the next port allocation.

[0191] After all signals have been allocated, the thermostat notifies the first wireless converter that the allocation is complete by sending signals to all its output ports; the indoor unit wireless converter connected to the indoor unit also notifies the indoor unit that the allocation is complete by sending signals to all its output ports; the same applies to the outdoor unit and its connected outdoor unit wireless converter; the indoor unit wireless converter and the outdoor unit wireless converter connected to the indoor unit send the corresponding wireless communication data frame for exit confirmation to the first wireless converter connected to the thermostat.

[0192] The first wireless converter connected to the thermostat controls its output port to output all signals, informing the thermostat to exit port allocation mode.

[0193] It should be noted that in normal operating mode, multiple control ports of the thermostat, indoor unit controller, or outdoor unit controller typically do not output valid level signals simultaneously. For example, in a residential air conditioning system, the Y, B, W, and G signals are usually output according to a predetermined control logic or timing sequence during normal control, not in the manner required by the automatic port allocation mode where multiple ports are simultaneously valid. Therefore, when the indoor or outdoor unit detects that multiple input ports receiving valid level signals at a rate greater than or equal to the preset threshold number of inputs, it can be determined that the current operation is not a normal control process, but rather an entry into the automatic port allocation mode.

[0194] In automatic port allocation mode, the port signals received by the indoor and outdoor units are not directly used as load drive signals. Instead, the indoor or outdoor unit first performs signal status detection and mode determination, and then decides whether to control the corresponding load based on the detection results. In other words, the valid voltage level signal input to the indoor or outdoor unit is not directly connected to the drive circuit of loads such as compressors, fans, four-way valves, and auxiliary heaters, but first enters the detection circuit or detection port of the corresponding controller. Therefore, in automatic port allocation mode, even if the corresponding wireless converter outputs valid voltage level signals to multiple ports simultaneously, it will not directly cause the corresponding load to malfunction. Thus, in this invention, it is not necessary to set up additional isolation safety measures between the wireless converter and the device node to cut off load drive.

[0195] The thermostat acts as the master initiator of the automatic port allocation process. The thermostat, indoor unit, outdoor unit, and corresponding wireless converter all pre-store the same or corresponding signal allocation sequence. The signal allocation sequence can be: Y signal, B signal, W signal, G signal, D signal, Y1 signal, and H signal. After the automatic port allocation process is initiated, the thermostat sequentially initiates the port matching process for each signal to be allocated according to this signal allocation sequence.

[0196] The signal encoding of the first wireless converter for the thermostat can be found in the table below.

[0197]

[0198] Table 3 Signal Encoding Table of the First Wireless Converter

[0199] The signal encoding of the indoor unit's wireless converter can be found in the table below.

[0200]

[0201] Table 4 Signal Encoding Table of Indoor Unit Wireless Converter

[0202] The signal encoding of the outdoor unit's wireless converter can be found in the table below.

[0203]

[0204] Table 5 Signal Encoding Table of Outdoor Unit Wireless Converter

[0205] If only some nodes lose power during the automatic port allocation process, the corresponding processing is performed based on the nodes that lost power. If the thermostat loses power, it stores a status indicator indicating whether it is currently in the automatic port allocation process before or during the power outage. After the thermostat is powered on again, if the status indicator indicates that it was in the automatic port allocation process before the power outage, the thermostat will not execute normal control logic temporarily. Instead, it will resume normal control logic or re-initiate the automatic port allocation process after a preset waiting time longer than the time required for other device nodes to actively exit the automatic port allocation mode. If the first wireless converter corresponding to the thermostat loses power, since the thermostat is powered by the first wireless converter, the processing method for a thermostat power outage can be followed.

[0206] If the wireless converter corresponding to the indoor or outdoor unit loses power, but the thermostat and the first wireless converter are still in the automatic port allocation process, the first wireless converter will continue or retransmit the automatic port allocation mode information and the currently allocated signal information. After the indoor or outdoor wireless converter is powered on again, if it receives the automatic port allocation mode information and the currently allocated signal information, it will re-enter the automatic port allocation mode and control its corresponding indoor or outdoor unit to simultaneously enter the automatic port allocation mode. If the indoor or outdoor unit loses power, and its corresponding wireless converter shares power with the indoor or outdoor unit, the indoor or outdoor unit and its corresponding wireless converter will lose power simultaneously. After power-on, the process will follow the same procedure as if the wireless converter had lost power.

[0207] The above method enables rapid replacement and modification of products from different brands in the North American market, eliminating the need to deal with complex wiring.

[0208] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system, the multi-node device control system comprising a plurality of device nodes, the device nodes having a plurality of level signals to be interacted between the device nodes, the device nodes comprising a first device node and at least one second device node, characterized in that, The wireless connection system includes: a first wireless converter connected to the first device node, and a second wireless converter connected to the second device node; Both the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter have multiple local signal ports, including multiple input local signal ports and multiple output local signal ports; In the automatic port allocation mode, the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter, according to the pre-stored signal allocation order, establish and store the port mapping relationship between the candidate local signal port and the corresponding device node's level signal among the candidate local signal ports that match the port type corresponding to the level signal for each level signal to be allocated. In normal operation mode, when the transmitting wireless converter detects a change in the level state of its input local signal port, it determines the changed level signal according to the stored port mapping relationship, and sends a wireless communication data frame to the receiving wireless converter corresponding to the level signal according to the pre-stored level signal interaction relationship. The receiving-side wireless converter controls its corresponding output local signal port to output a corresponding level signal to the device node it is electrically connected to, based on the stored port mapping relationship and the wireless communication data frame.

2. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system of claim 1, wherein, When multiple input local signal ports of the first wireless converter, which are greater than or equal to the first preset number of channels, simultaneously receive a valid level signal output by the first device node, it is determined that the automatic port allocation mode has been entered, and the automatic port allocation mode information is sent to each of the second wireless converters. The second wireless converter enters the automatic port allocation mode in response to the automatic port allocation mode information, and simultaneously outputs a valid level signal to the second device node electrically connected to it through a plurality of its output local signal ports that are greater than or equal to the second preset number of channels threshold. When the second wireless converter detects that the corresponding second device node outputs a multi-channel response signal due to recognizing the valid level signal output by the plurality of output-type local signal ports, it sends an acknowledgment message to the first wireless converter. After receiving the confirmation information, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs a valid level signal to the first device node through multiple output local signal ports of its output local signal ports that are greater than or equal to the third preset number of channels threshold, so that the first device node confirms that the wireless connection system has entered the port automatic allocation mode. The port auto-assignment mode information includes at least a mode identifier.

3. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system of claim 2, wherein, In the automatic port allocation mode, for the currently to be allocated level signal, the currently to be allocated level signal has a predetermined transmitting-side device node and at least one receiving-side device node; When a transmitting-side wireless converter electrically connected to the transmitting-side device node detects a valid level signal output by the transmitting-side device node for the currently to-be-assigned level signal at one of its input local signal ports, it establishes an input port mapping relationship between the input local signal port and the currently to-be-assigned level signal, and sends a wireless communication data frame including the signal identifier of the currently to-be-assigned level signal. After receiving the wireless communication data frame, the receiving-side wireless converter, which is electrically connected to the receiving-side device node, selects a candidate output port from the unassigned output-type local signal ports according to the port traversal order and outputs an effective level signal. If a response signal is detected from the receiving device node within a preset confirmation time, an output port mapping relationship is established between the candidate output port and the currently assigned level signal. If the response signal is not detected within the preset confirmation time, the system switches to the next unassigned output local signal port to continue outputting a valid level signal until the output port mapping relationship is established or the candidate output port traversal is completed.

4. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first device node, acting as the allocation control node, sequentially determines the level signal to be allocated according to the signal allocation order; When the currently assigned level signal is not an input signal or an output signal of the first device node, the first wireless converter, according to the level signal interaction relationship, sends a wireless communication data frame including the signal identifier of the currently assigned level signal to the transmitting-side wireless converter and / or the receiving-side wireless converter corresponding to the currently assigned level signal, so as to trigger the transmitting-side wireless converter and / or the receiving-side wireless converter to automatically assign ports to the currently assigned level signal.

5. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system of claim 4, wherein, The plurality of level signals to be interacted with include basic signals and extended signals, wherein the extended signals are represented by a combination of at least two assigned basic signals; In the automatic port allocation mode, if the level signal to be allocated is the base signal, the wireless converter participating in the allocation will establish a port mapping relationship with the input local signal port that currently detects a valid level signal, or the output local signal port that currently outputs a valid level signal and obtains a response confirmation, and the base signal. If the level signal to be allocated is an extended signal, the wireless converter participating in the allocation will detect or control the local signal ports of at least two basic signals corresponding to the extended signal to be in an effective level state at the same time, based on the established port mapping relationship of the basic signals, so as to form a combined level signal, and establish the port mapping relationship corresponding to the extended signal according to the combined level signal.

6. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system of claim 4, wherein, After all the level signals to be assigned have been automatically assigned to the ports, the first device node notifies the first wireless converter that the port assignment is complete by simultaneously outputting valid level signals to its multiple output ports. The second wireless converter notifies the corresponding second device node port to automatically complete the port allocation by simultaneously outputting valid level signals through its multiple output-type local signal ports. The second wireless converter sends an exit confirmation message to the first wireless converter; After receiving the exit confirmation information, the first wireless converter simultaneously outputs valid level signals to the first device node through its multiple output local signal ports to notify the first device node to exit the automatic port allocation mode.

7. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The wireless communication data frame includes a function code field and a valid data field; The function code field is used to indicate whether the wireless communication data frame is for port auto-assignment mode information, level signal information to be assigned, confirmation information, exit confirmation information, or abnormal information. The valid data field is used to carry at least one of the following: mode identifier, signal identifier of the level signal to be assigned, source node identifier, target node identifier, and acknowledgment identifier.

8. The wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein Both the first wireless converter and the second wireless converter include a processing module, a wireless communication module, a storage module, and a port group; The port group includes a plurality of local signal ports, each local signal port being configured with an input detection circuit for detecting a valid level signal and / or an output drive circuit for outputting a valid level signal; The storage module is used to store the port mapping relationship, the signal allocation order, and the level signal interaction relationship.

9. A residential air conditioning system, characterized by, The system includes a wireless connection system for a multi-node device control system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first device node is a thermostat, the second device node includes an indoor unit and an outdoor unit, and the second wireless converter includes an indoor unit wireless converter electrically connected to the indoor unit and an outdoor unit wireless converter electrically connected to the outdoor unit.

10. The room air conditioning system, as recited in claim 9, wherein, The level signals to be exchanged between the thermostat, indoor unit, and outdoor unit include basic signals and extended signals; The basic signal includes at least two of the following: Y signal, B signal, W signal, and G signal; The extended signal includes at least one of a D signal, a Y1 signal, and a H signal, wherein the D signal is represented by a combination of a Y signal and a B signal, and the Y1 signal is represented by a combination of a Y signal and a W signal.

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