Actuator Control Coordination via Proxy State Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reliable coordination of controllers and actuators in a network is challenging, requiring simpler methods and systems for effective control.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for controlling actuators involve sending commands and messages between controllers to coordinate the state of actuators, including acknowledging receipt, executing actions, and handling events or time triggers, with features like power restoration and alert messages to ensure reliable communication and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple controllers coordinate to control actuators in a network, then control reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides control functions between a first controller that sends commands and a second controller that executes them. This segmentation allows distributed control improving reliability while keeping each controller's individual complexity manageable through clear functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements acknowledgment messages where the second controller confirms receipt of commands to the first controller. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable coordination between controllers without requiring complex centralized control logic, thus improving reliability while maintaining simplicity.
2Reliability
If controllers send acknowledgment messages to confirm command receipt, then communication reliability is improved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system sends acknowledgment messages selectively - the second controller acknowledges command receipt to the first controller, but only when necessary for coordination. This partial action approach ensures communication reliability for critical coordination messages without excessive overhead from continuous or redundant acknowledgments.
3Reliability
If the actuator waits for a period of time before executing a predetermined command, then coordination reliability is improved, but response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator stores predetermined commands in advance and waits only for a brief period to allow coordination messages to arrive. This preliminary preparation of commands enables quick execution once the waiting period expires, improving coordination reliability while minimizing response time delay.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling devices, including controller and actuators are disclosed. Actuators may be devices where remote control of the device or devices is convenient, such as lights, window shades, fans and similar items. In one method, a user sends a command to a controller and to an actuator. The controller also sends a proxy update to a second controller that is also in communication with the actuator. The proxy controller, also in contact with the actuator, now has knowledge of the state or position of the actuator and is in a better position if the proxy controller is asked to assume control of the actuator. In another method, an actuator or controller may also receive a trigger setup, asking the actuator to tell the controller when an action occurs, but not to take action until receiving a further command from the controller.