Adaptive Building Control System with Redundant Circuitry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current building automation systems are limited in their ability to provide sophisticated control over a wide range of electrical devices and are prone to disruptions from environmental factors, requiring costly equipment and technical expertise, while also being inflexible in supporting multiple devices and interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A computer-controlled adaptive control system that includes interchangeable switch terminals with a power management system and sensors, utilizing machine intelligence to learn from occupant patterns and adjust lighting and electrical loads dynamically, allowing for seamless integration with existing wiring and enhanced user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If power-line carrier control systems are used to utilize existing home wiring, then cost is reduced and installation is simplified, but the systems are easily disrupted by electrical disturbances and allow control of only a limited number of device types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a neutral wire as an intermediary communication channel between devices and the control system. This separate communication path isolates control signals from power line electrical disturbances, while still utilizing existing wiring infrastructure. The neutral wire carries both power and communication signals, providing a stable reference ground that prevents electrical noise from disrupting device operation.
2Reliability
If predetermined control systems with limited I/O cards are used, then device compatibility is ensured, but the number of supported devices and interfaces is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal control architecture where any device can function as both a controlled device and a control interface. Each device incorporates a microprocessor and communication capabilities, allowing it to be controlled via multiple interfaces (keypad, touchscreen, remote control, mobile device) while maintaining compatibility through standardized protocols. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for predetermined limited I/O configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically assigns control functions and interfaces based on device capabilities and user needs rather than fixed configurations. The control system can adaptively recognize and integrate new device types, allowing the number of supported devices and interfaces to expand flexibly without being constrained by predetermined card slots or fixed architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sophisticated building automation systems with predetermined configurations are used, then control capability is enhanced, but the systems require extensive technical expertise for installation and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-configuration capabilities where devices automatically detect and register themselves with the control system upon installation. The system performs automatic device discovery, assigns appropriate control interfaces, and configures communication parameters without requiring manual setup by technicians. This self-service approach enables sophisticated control functionality while eliminating the need for extensive technical expertise during installation and operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for controlling a first switch terminal of a building occupied by one or more building occupant. The system includes a plurality of switch terminals at the building. A first computer system is coupled to the first switch terminal or equivalent of the building at a first location of the building. The first switch terminal includes a plurality of wiring terminals each configured to be coupled to a wiring element without a specific coupling configuration of a wiring element to a wiring terminal. The first computer system runs on at least one platform. A first plurality of sensors is coupled to the first switch terminal and the first computer system. At least a portion of the sensors provide signal data to the first computer system. The first computer system produces a command or data output that relates to at least one of: a command output for a local control system, a command output for a different system, a data output for a different system, a command output for a non-local device or a data output that is a non-local device, each of an output including learned data from that is based on machine intelligence from previous data collected about patterns of a building occupant.