Multi-device network topology structure, air conditioner system and smart home system

Abstract

The utility model provides a multi-device network topology structure, an air conditioner system and a smart home system, and the structure comprises a main network structure which comprises a plurality of main controllers, one or more extension devices and a first router, and the plurality of main controllers and the one or more extension devices are all in communication connection with the first router; each sub-network structure comprises a main controller, one or more extension devices and a second router, the main controller and the one or more extension devices are all in communication connection with the second router, the main controllers in any two sub-network structures are different, and the extension devices in any two sub-network structures are different. The extension devices in any two sub-network structures are different, and the second routers in any two sub-network structures are different. Through application of the method and the device, the problem of low data transmission efficiency caused by the fact that data transmission between the expansion equipment and the main controller needs to be transmitted in different networks when the expansion equipment and the main controller are accessed to different networks in the prior art is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of network structure technology for multiple devices, and more specifically, to a multi-device network topology, an air conditioning system, and a smart home system. Background Technology

[0002] In multi-device collaborative operation scenarios, such as smart home systems, the main controller often needs to integrate multiple functional modules to achieve comprehensive control and monitoring capabilities. Existing technologies employ two communication network structures. One approach connects the main controller and multiple functional modules to the same network, where each module requires its own independent network address. This method works well when the number of devices is small, but as the system scales up, independent address allocation encounters bottlenecks, leading to problems such as address resource scarcity, complex network topology, low data transmission efficiency, and unclear hierarchical relationships between devices. The other approach connects the main controller and expansion components to different networks. The main controller and expansion devices typically need to transmit data between the first and second networks, i.e., cross-network data transmission, resulting in lower data communication efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main objective of this application is to provide a multi-device network topology, an air conditioner system, and a smart home system to solve the problem in the prior art where extended devices can only access one network, resulting in the need to transfer data between different networks or the inability to confirm the affiliation between the main controller and the extended devices.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of this application, a multi-device network topology is provided, comprising: a main network structure including multiple main controllers, one or more extension devices, and a first router, wherein the multiple main controllers and one or more extension devices are communicatively connected to the first router, wherein the main controllers are used to control device operation, and the extension devices are used to extend the functionality of the devices; and multiple sub-network structures, each sub-network structure including one main controller, one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller, and a second router, wherein the main controllers in any two sub-network structures are different, the extension devices in any two sub-network structures are different, and the second routers in any two sub-network structures are different.

[0005] Furthermore, the first router has a serial communication network interface, and each of the main controllers and each of the extended devices has a main network interface, wherein the serial communication network interface is communicatively connected to each of the main network interfaces.

[0006] Furthermore, the multi-device network topology also includes: a first connection component, comprising a first port and a second port, wherein the first port is connected to the serial communication network interface of the first router, and the second port is connected to the main network interface of the main controller or the expansion device.

[0007] Furthermore, the second router has a master-slave communication network interface, and each of the master controllers and each of the extended devices has a sub-network interface, wherein the master-slave communication network interface is communicatively connected to each of the sub-network interfaces.

[0008] Furthermore, the multi-device network topology also includes a second connection component, comprising a third port and a fourth port, wherein the third port is connected to the master-slave communication network interface of the second router, and the fourth port is connected to the sub-network interface of the master controller or the extended device.

[0009] Furthermore, the first router includes a parallel processor and a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the second router includes a serial processor and a static random access memory (SRAM), wherein the parallel processor and the DRAM are communicatively connected, and the serial processor and the SRAM are communicatively connected.

[0010] Furthermore, the main controller is an STM32 controller.

[0011] According to another aspect of this application, an air conditioning system is provided, including an air conditioner and any of the aforementioned multi-device network topologies, wherein the air conditioner is communicatively connected to a main controller and an extension device in the multi-device network topology, and the main controller and the extension device are respectively used to control the operation of the air conditioner.

[0012] Furthermore, the air conditioner includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, and the main controller includes an outdoor unit main controller and an indoor unit main controller. The outdoor unit main controller is communicatively connected to the outdoor unit and is used to control the operation of the outdoor unit. The indoor unit main controller is communicatively connected to the indoor unit and is used to control the operation of the indoor unit.

[0013] Furthermore, the air conditioner also includes a fan and a refrigerant device. The extended device is one of a fan drive module and a refrigerant control module. The fan drive module is communicatively connected to the fan and is used to control the operation of the fan. The refrigerant control module is communicatively connected to the refrigerant device and is used to control the operation of the refrigerant device.

[0014] According to another aspect of this application, a smart home system is provided, including a controlled device and any of the multi-device network topologies described above. The controlled device is communicatively connected to a main controller and an extension device in the multi-device network topology. The main controller and the extension device are respectively used to control the operation of the controlled device.

[0015] The technical solution of this application sets up a main network structure including multiple main controllers, one or more extension devices, and a first router, and sets up multiple sub-network structures. Each sub-network structure includes a main controller, one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller, and a second router. The main controllers, extension devices, and second routers in any two sub-network structures are different. In contrast to existing technologies where extension devices can only access one network, data transmission between the extension devices and the main controller needs to be transmitted across the main network and sub-networks, resulting in low data transmission efficiency, this application connects all extension devices to both the main network and sub-networks, enabling data transmission between the main controller and extension devices within the same network, eliminating the need for cross-network transmission. Therefore, it solves the problem of low data transmission efficiency caused by the need for data transmission across different networks when extension devices and the main controller are connected to different networks, thus improving data transmission efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this application are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a multi-device network topology in the prior art is shown;

[0018] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a multi-device network topology according to an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0019] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0020] 1. First indoor unit main controller; 2. Second indoor unit main controller; 3. Third indoor unit main controller; 4. Fourth indoor unit main controller; 5. Fifth indoor unit main controller; 6. Sixth indoor unit main controller; 7. First outdoor unit main controller; 8. Second outdoor unit main controller; 9. First expansion device; 10. Second expansion device; 11. Third expansion device; 12. Fourth expansion device; 13. Fifth expansion device; 14. Sixth expansion device; 15. First router; 16. Third router; 17. Fourth router. Detailed Implementation

[0021] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are illustrative and intended to provide further explanation of this application. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains.

[0022] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0023] It should be understood that when an element (such as a layer, film, region, or substrate) is described as being "on" another element, the element may be directly on the other element, or there may be an intermediate element present. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, when an element is described as being "connected" to another element, the element may be "directly connected" to the other element, or "connected" to the other element via a third element.

[0024] Network structures in existing technologies, such as Figure 1 As shown, the system consists of multiple main controllers and one or more expansion devices. The main controllers include a first indoor unit main controller 1, a second indoor unit main controller 2, a third indoor unit main controller 3, a fourth indoor unit main controller 4, a fifth indoor unit main controller 5, a sixth indoor unit main controller 6, a first outdoor unit main controller 7, and a second outdoor unit main controller 8. The expansion devices include a first expansion device 9, a second expansion device 10, a third expansion device 11, a fourth expansion device 12, a fifth expansion device 13, and a sixth expansion device 14. When the third expansion device 11 is connected to the first router 15, i.e., when the expansion device is located in the main network, an address needs to be assigned to the third expansion device 11 in the main network. Each additional device requires one or more additional device addresses, leading to a shortage of address resources. Furthermore, because all devices are on the same communication network, even if each device node is assigned an address, when each outdoor unit needs to install its own expansion device, the assigned address cannot determine the affiliation between the expansion module and the outdoor unit, i.e., it is impossible to determine which component belongs to which outdoor unit, thus hindering directional control. When the expansion device is located in the second network, as... Figure 1The first extension device 9 and the second extension device 10 are respectively connected to the third router 16, or the fourth extension device 12 and the fifth extension device 13 are connected to the fourth router 17. Due to the master-slave communication method, the master needs to call the slave device in turn, which results in relatively low communication efficiency. In addition, the first outdoor unit master controller 7 or the second outdoor unit master controller 8 needs to transfer data between the main network and the sub-network.

[0025] As described in the background section, when existing expansion devices and main controllers are connected to different networks, data transmission between the expansion devices and main controllers needs to be transmitted in different networks, resulting in low data transmission efficiency. To solve the above problems, this application proposes a multi-device network topology, an air conditioner system, and a smart home system.

[0026] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] The following describes the multi-device network topology provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 2 As shown, it includes:

[0028] The main network structure includes multiple main controllers, one or more expansion devices, and a first router. The multiple main controllers and one or more expansion devices are all communicatively connected to the first router. The main controllers are used to control the operation of the devices, and the expansion devices are used to expand the functions of the devices.

[0029] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the main network structure consists of multiple main controllers (including the first indoor unit main controller 1, the second indoor unit main controller 2, the third indoor unit main controller 3, the fourth indoor unit main controller 4, the fifth indoor unit main controller 5, the sixth indoor unit main controller 6, the first outdoor unit main controller 7, and the second outdoor unit main controller 8), one or more expansion devices (including the first expansion device 9, the second expansion device 10, the fourth expansion device 12, and the fifth expansion device 13) and the first router 15. Figure 2Taking the example of two expansion devices each for the first outdoor unit main controller 7 and the second outdoor unit main controller 8 (the expansion devices for the first outdoor unit main controller 7 include the first expansion device 9 and the second expansion device 10, both connected to the third router 16; the expansion devices for the second outdoor unit main controller 8 include the fourth expansion device 12 and the fifth expansion device 13, both connected to the fourth router 17), in actual applications, each indoor unit main controller can also be equipped with expansion devices, and there can be one or more expansion devices. The above-mentioned main network structure typically adopts a serial communication network or a communication method similar to a multi-master node structure (such as a CAN communication network). This network structure supports data exchange between multiple main controllers and expansion devices without requiring a single device as a data relay. Multiple main controllers (e.g., the main controller of each outdoor or indoor unit) and one or more expansion devices (specific function control modules of indoor or outdoor units, such as compressor drives, fan controls, etc.) are all connected through the first router, forming an efficient and stable data transmission environment. This structure improves the real-time performance and efficiency of data transmission because all device nodes are in the same network, avoiding secondary data transfer and reducing the computational burden on the main controller. Because all device nodes (main controller and expansion devices) are directly connected, data can be transmitted directly between the main controller and expansion devices in the main network structure. This eliminates the need for data to be transmitted through subnetworks via expansion devices to the main controller in the main network, and also avoids the need for forwarding by the main controller. This reduces data transmission paths and thus improves transmission efficiency. The main controller is responsible for system logic control, executing core functions such as temperature regulation and system management. Expansion devices are used to implement proprietary functions, such as driving specific hardware components (compressors, fans, etc.) or providing intelligent processing capabilities (data collection and analysis).

[0030] Multiple sub-network structures, each of which includes a main controller, one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller, and a second router. The main controller and the one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller are all communicatively connected to the second router. The main controllers in any two sub-network structures are different, the extension devices in any two sub-network structures are different, and the second routers in any two sub-network structures are different.

[0031] Specifically, the aforementioned second router in Figure 2 This includes the third router 16 and the fourth router 17, such as Figure 2 As shown, each sub-network structure contains a main controller and one or more expansion devices, such as... Figure 2The sub-network structure of the first outdoor unit main controller 7 includes a third router 16, a first expansion device 9, a second expansion device 10, and the first outdoor unit main controller 7; the sub-network structure of the second outdoor unit main controller 8 includes a fourth router 17, a fourth expansion device 12, a fifth expansion device 13, and the second outdoor unit main controller 8. The second router connection ensures that devices in each sub-network can automatically receive the communication address of the first network according to the main controller's instructions. This structure saves address resources and simplifies network configuration because the expansion devices do not need to be allocated independent addresses in the first network, but share addresses with the main controller. It also simplifies network configuration and maintenance. By automatically assigning the same communication address as the main controller in the main network to the sub-network, it avoids allocating additional addresses for the expansion devices in the main network, thus saving address resources and simplifying the network configuration process. By using different main controllers, expansion devices, and second routers in each sub-network, the system can accurately distinguish and control the operating status and functions of different devices. This ensures clear communication and accurate control between different devices in the system. Even if multiple devices share the same communication address, the sub-network structure allows for effective control of each individual device.

[0032] The technical solution of this application sets up a main network structure including multiple main controllers, one or more extension devices, and a first router, and sets up multiple sub-network structures. Each sub-network structure includes a main controller, one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller, and a second router. The main controllers, extension devices, and second routers in any two sub-network structures are different. In contrast to existing technologies where extension devices can only access one network, data transmission between the extension devices and the main controller needs to be transmitted across the main network and sub-networks, resulting in low data transmission efficiency, this application connects all extension devices to both the main network and sub-networks, enabling data transmission between the main controller and extension devices within the same network, eliminating the need for cross-network transmission. Therefore, it solves the problem of low data transmission efficiency caused by the need for data transmission across different networks when extension devices and the main controller are connected to different networks, thus improving data transmission efficiency.

[0033] In some alternative implementations, the first router has a serial communication network interface, and each of the main controllers and the expansion devices has a main network interface, with the serial communication network interface communicating with each of the main network interfaces.

[0034] Specifically, the first router is equipped with a serial communication network interface, enabling it to support serial communication networks. This network employs a multi-master node structure, allowing multiple main controllers of indoor and outdoor units, as well as extended devices, to communicate on an equal footing within the same network without the need for specific relay or intermediary devices. Each main controller and extended device is configured with a main network interface compatible with the serial communication network. Through these interfaces, they can directly establish communication connections with the first router and exchange data. The direct communication connection between the serial communication network interface and the main network interface solves the problem of data transfer requiring relay controllers in different communication networks. The multi-master node structure of the serial communication network not only simplifies the network topology but also improves data transmission efficiency and real-time performance, as direct communication between nodes reduces data latency by eliminating the need for secondary data transfer through controllers. The design of the serial communication network interface enables the first router and each main controller and expansion device to communicate without data relay. The direct communication mechanism ensures fast data transmission and avoids delays and errors that may occur when data is transmitted between different network layers. At the same time, the multi-master node structure makes data transmission more efficient, and each node can send data when the network is idle, further improving the real-time performance of communication and the system response speed.

[0035] In some optional implementations, the above multi-device network topology further includes: a first connection component, including a first port and a second port, wherein the first port is connected to the serial communication network interface of the first router, and the second port is connected to the main network interface of the main controller or the expansion device.

[0036] Specifically, a first connecting component for connecting various devices is introduced, featuring physical interfaces with a first port and a second port. The first port connects to the serial communication network interface of the first router, while the second port connects to the main network interface of the main controller or expansion device. In this way, all devices in the main network maintain communication with the first router through the first connecting component, forming a stable and efficient communication link between multiple devices. Connectors such as RJ45 Ethernet connectors, DB-9 serial connectors, or other custom connectors are used to implement the physical transmission of electrical signals. The first port of the first connecting component interfaces with the serial communication network interface of the first router, while the second port interfaces with the main network interface of the main controller or expansion device, ensuring data transmission between different devices.

[0037] In some optional implementations, the second router has a master-slave communication network interface, and each of the master controllers and the expansion devices has a sub-network interface, with the master-slave communication network interface communicating with each of the sub-network interfaces.

[0038] Specifically, the second router is configured with a master-slave communication network interface, while the main controller and expansion devices are equipped with corresponding sub-network interfaces. The master-slave communication (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter) network interface is used to enable point-to-point communication between the main controller and the expansion devices. Through this master-slave communication structure, the main controller can send commands to the expansion devices and receive status information, and the expansion devices can obtain communication addresses in the first network. This allows the expansion devices to publish data in the first network using the same address as the main controller. Connecting the master-slave communication interface of the second network to the sub-network interfaces of the expansion devices solves the problem of address resource scarcity caused by the need to add IP addresses when adding expansion devices to the same network. The main controller and expansion devices share addresses in the same communication network, which not only saves address resources but also simplifies network configuration.

[0039] The master-slave communication interface's master-slave structure allows extended devices to automatically obtain the communication address of the first network from the master controller, eliminating the need for manual allocation or additional IP addresses. Since the extended device shares the same address with the master controller, the master controller and extended device on the same device are identified as the same node in the first network. This not only simplifies the network architecture but also ensures efficient and accurate data transmission, as data is directly published in the first network without needing to be relayed, improving communication efficiency. It also reduces address resource consumption, allowing the system to accommodate more device nodes and enhancing network scalability.

[0040] In some optional implementations, the above multi-device network topology further includes: a second connection component, including a third port and a fourth port, wherein the third port is connected to the master-slave communication network interface of the second router, and the fourth port is connected to the sub-network interface of the master controller or the expansion device.

[0041] Specifically, the second connection component is a physical connection device. Its third port connects to the master-slave communication network interface of the second router, while its fourth port establishes a communication link with the subnet interface of the main controller or expansion device. The master-slave communication interface is typically used for point-to-point communication. Through the second connection component, the main controller can effectively exchange data with the expansion devices within the subnet, confirm the hierarchical relationship between devices, and automatically assign communication addresses. The use of the second connection component solves the problems of unclear hierarchical relationships between devices within the subnet and limited address resources. By establishing direct communication between the main controller and the expansion devices, the communication efficiency of the subnet is improved, while also simplifying network configuration, avoiding the tedious process of manually assigning addresses, and enhancing the system's flexibility and scalability. Communication between devices within the subnet via the second connection component not only confirms the hierarchical relationship between the expansion devices and the main controller but also ensures that the expansion devices can automatically obtain the same communication address as the main controller. This design avoids data transfer intermediaries during the data transmission process, improving data transmission efficiency and real-time performance. Meanwhile, since the expansion devices share addresses with the main controller, the additional address allocation requirements are reduced, saving limited address resources and enabling more devices to access the same network, thus enhancing network scalability.

[0042] In some alternative implementations, the first router includes a parallel processor and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the second router includes a serial processor and static random access memory (SRAM), wherein the parallel processor and DRAM are communicatively connected, and the serial processor and SRAM are communicatively connected. The combination of a parallel processor and DRAM improves the processing power and data transmission efficiency of the first router, while the combination of a serial processor and SRAM simplifies the design of the second router and reduces power consumption. This design not only improves the overall network performance but also reduces the overall system cost.

[0043] Specifically, the first router contains a parallel processor to handle data in the main network. This data typically requires rapid processing and response to support efficient communication between devices. The parallel processor is connected to Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) because DRAM provides fast data read / write speeds, meeting the memory performance requirements when processing large amounts of data. The parallel processor can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and combined with the fast data read / write capabilities of DRAM, the first router can efficiently manage data flow in the main network, maintaining good network performance even under conditions of large data volumes and high transmission requirements. The second router uses a serial processor, which communicates with Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) to handle data in the sub-network. This data typically involves one-to-one communication between devices and has relatively lower processing speed requirements. The combination of the serial processor and SRAM is suitable for handling low-speed, low-power data transmission. This design reduces the complexity of the second router, simplifies the data exchange process between devices in the sub-network, reduces system power consumption, and also lowers manufacturing costs because SRAM is more power-efficient than DRAM, and the processing requirements of the serial processor are relatively low.

[0044] In some optional implementations, the main controller described above is an STM32 controller. Using an STM32 controller as the main controller improves the control accuracy and response speed of the air conditioning system, while reducing system power consumption, making the air conditioning system more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly while maintaining performance.

[0045] Specifically, the STM32 series microcontrollers, based on the ARM Cortex-M core, provide high performance, low power consumption, and rich peripheral interfaces, enabling them to effectively handle the control logic and data exchange of air conditioning systems while maintaining low power consumption. Furthermore, the STM32 controller supports multiple communication protocols, such as serial communication, master-slave communication, SPI, and USB, allowing it to serve as a key communication node in master and sub-networks, achieving efficient and stable inter-device communication. The high-performance core of the STM32 controller can quickly execute complex control algorithms, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of the air conditioning system's operating status, thus improving control accuracy and response speed. Its low-power design reduces power consumption and extends equipment lifespan when used as a continuously operating control center in an air conditioning system. Rich peripheral interfaces and powerful communication capabilities ensure efficient data interaction between devices, making system design more flexible and scalable.

[0046] This application also provides an air conditioner system, including an air conditioner and any of the above-described multi-device network topologies, wherein the air conditioner is communicatively connected to a main controller and an extension device in the multi-device network topology, and the main controller and the extension device are respectively used to control the operation of the air conditioner.

[0047] Specifically, in this system, the air conditioner establishes communication connections with the main controller and expansion devices in the topology. The main controller is responsible for the overall system logic control, issuing control commands and managing the air conditioner's operating status, while the expansion devices focus on performing specific auxiliary functions, such as controlling fan drive or refrigerant flow regulation, collaborating with the main controller to ensure the air conditioner's efficient operation. Through the coordinated action of the main controller and expansion devices, the air conditioning system achieves more efficient and precise air conditioning control. The main controller can communicate directly with the air conditioner, adjusting operating strategies and monitoring device status in a timely manner, while the expansion devices automatically obtain the same communication address as the main controller in the sub-network, directly participating in the communication of the first network without data transfer, thus improving data transmission efficiency and response speed.

[0048] The system employs a master-slave network communication approach. The master network is responsible for efficient data transmission between all devices, while the sub-network is used to confirm the affiliation between the extended devices and the master controller and to automatically assign communication addresses. This design not only avoids data transfer between different networks and improves transmission efficiency, but also simplifies address resource management and provides space for adding more devices to the system.

[0049] In some alternative embodiments, the air conditioner includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, the main controller includes an outdoor unit main controller and an indoor unit main controller, the outdoor unit main controller is communicatively connected to the outdoor unit and used to control the operation of the outdoor unit, and the indoor unit main controller is communicatively connected to the indoor unit and used to control the operation of the indoor unit.

[0050] Specifically, in an air conditioning system, the main controller is divided into an outdoor unit main controller and an indoor unit main controller, connected to the outdoor and indoor units respectively, enabling independent control of different components. The outdoor unit main controller is responsible for the operating status and control commands of the outdoor unit, while the indoor unit main controller focuses on the fine-tuning and operational management of the indoor unit. In this way, the system can better adapt to environmental changes, providing users with personalized and efficient cooling or heating effects. This divide-and-conquer control strategy allows the outdoor unit main controller to focus on outdoor environmental conditions and equipment status, while the indoor unit main controller can make precise adjustments based on real-time indoor demand, greatly improving the system's flexibility and responsiveness.

[0051] In some optional embodiments, the air conditioner further includes a fan and a refrigerant device. The extended device is one of a fan drive module and a refrigerant control module. The fan drive module is communicatively connected to the fan and is used to control the operation of the fan. The refrigerant control module is communicatively connected to the refrigerant device and is used to control the operation of the refrigerant device.

[0052] Specifically, the extended devices of the air conditioning system include fan drive modules and refrigerant control modules. These modules connect to the fan and refrigerant equipment through dedicated communication interfaces, enabling precise control of these key components. The fan drive module controls the fan speed and direction to ensure efficient and high-quality airflow; while the refrigerant control module manages the refrigerant flow and pressure to maintain optimal cooling or heating effects. Through close cooperation with the main network and sub-networks, these extended devices can autonomously acquire communication addresses and publish data without affecting the load on the main controller, improving the overall system response speed and control accuracy. As extended devices, the fan drive module and refrigerant control module automatically acquire the same communication address as the outdoor unit main controller or indoor unit main controller through the sub-network, and then communicate directly with the main controller and other devices in the first network without data intermediaries, greatly improving data transmission speed and efficiency. Simultaneously, they focus on implementing specific functions, reducing the burden on the main controller, allowing it to handle system-level logic control more efficiently and ensuring the overall operational performance of the air conditioning system. The extended equipment can also be an intelligent control module, which collects unit data, trains the unit model, and outputs the trained adjustment parameters to the main controller for energy-saving adjustment of the unit.

[0053] This application also provides a smart home system, including: a controlled device and any of the above-mentioned multi-device network topologies, wherein the controlled device is communicatively connected to a main controller and an extension device in the above-mentioned multi-device network topology, and the main controller and the extension device are respectively used to control the operation of the controlled device.

[0054] Specifically, a smart home system, for example, consists of:

[0055] Controlled devices include smart light bulbs, smart curtains, environmental sensors (such as temperature and humidity sensors), smart door locks, and smart home appliances (such as smart refrigerators and smart washing machines). These devices are capable of receiving and executing control commands.

[0056] Main controller: This can be the central control unit of each of the above-mentioned smart devices, responsible for the coordination, control and management between multiple smart devices;

[0057] Extended devices: For example, each smart light bulb or smart curtain has an auxiliary controller for implementing proprietary functions, such as adjusting the brightness of the smart light bulb or controlling the opening and closing degree of the smart curtain;

[0058] First network: This serves as the main communication network, where all controlled devices, the main controller, and extended devices transmit data. The network employs a multi-master node structure, such as Wi-Fi or ZigBee, to support efficient data exchange between devices.

[0059] The second network serves as an auxiliary communication network, used to confirm the hierarchical relationship between the extended devices and the main controller, and to obtain the main controller's communication address within the first network. The network can employ a master-slave architecture, such as Bluetooth or Z-Wave.

[0060] As can be seen from the above description, the embodiments of this application achieve the following technical effects:

[0061] 1) Applying the technical solution of this application, a main network structure is set up including multiple main controllers, one or more extension devices, and a first router, and multiple sub-network structures are set up. Each sub-network structure includes a main controller, one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller, and a second router. The main controllers, extension devices, and second routers in any two sub-network structures are different. In contrast to existing technologies where extension devices can only access one network, data transmission between the extension devices and the main controller needs to be transmitted across the main network and sub-networks, resulting in low data transmission efficiency, this application connects all extension devices to both the main network and sub-networks, enabling data transmission between the main controller and extension devices within the same network, eliminating the need for cross-network transmission. Therefore, it solves the problem of low data transmission efficiency caused by the need for data transmission across different networks when extension devices and the main controller are connected to different networks in existing technologies, thus improving data transmission efficiency.

[0062] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A multi-device network topology, characterized in that, include: The main network structure includes multiple main controllers, one or more extension devices, and a first router. The multiple main controllers and one or more extension devices are all communicatively connected to the first router. The main controllers are used to control the operation of the devices, and the extension devices are used to extend the functions of the devices. Multiple sub-network structures are provided, each of which includes a main controller, one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller, and a second router. The main controller and the one or more extension devices corresponding to the main controller are all communicatively connected to the second router. The main controllers, extension devices, and second routers in any two sub-network structures are different.

2. The multi-device network topology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first router has a serial communication network interface, and each of the main controllers and each of the extended devices has a main network interface. The serial communication network interface is communicatively connected to each of the main network interfaces.

3. The multi-device network topology according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multi-device network topology also includes: The first connection component includes a first port and a second port. The first port is connected to the serial communication network interface of the first router, and the second port is connected to the main network interface of the main controller or the expansion device.

4. The multi-device network topology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second router has a master-slave communication network interface, and each of the master controllers and each of the extended devices has a sub-network interface. The master-slave communication network interface is communicatively connected to each of the sub-network interfaces.

5. The multi-device network topology according to claim 4, characterized in that, The multi-device network topology also includes: The second connection component includes a third port and a fourth port. The third port is connected to the master-slave communication network interface of the second router, and the fourth port is connected to the sub-network interface of the master controller or the expansion device.

6. The multi-device network topology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first router includes a parallel processor and a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the second router includes a serial processor and a static random access memory (SRAM), wherein the parallel processor and the DRAM are communicatively connected, and the serial processor and the SRAM are communicatively connected.

7. The multi-device network topology according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main controller is an STM32 controller.

8. An air conditioning system, characterized in that, The device includes an air conditioner and a multi-device network topology as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the air conditioner is communicatively connected to a main controller and an extension device in the multi-device network topology, and the main controller and the extension device are respectively used to control the operation of the air conditioner.

9. The air conditioning system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The air conditioner includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The main controller includes an outdoor unit main controller and an indoor unit main controller. The outdoor unit main controller is communicatively connected to the outdoor unit and is used to control the operation of the outdoor unit. The indoor unit main controller is communicatively connected to the indoor unit and is used to control the operation of the indoor unit.

10. The air conditioning system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The air conditioner also includes a fan and a refrigerant device. The extended device is one of a fan drive module and a refrigerant control module. The fan drive module is communicatively connected to the fan and is used to control the operation of the fan. The refrigerant control module is communicatively connected to the refrigerant device and is used to control the operation of the refrigerant device.

11. A smart home system, characterized in that, The system includes a controlled device and a multi-device network topology as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the controlled device is communicatively connected to a main controller and an extension device in the multi-device network topology, and the main controller and the extension device are respectively used to control the operation of the controlled device.

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