Building Control System Automatic Device Binding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing building control systems require expert configuration and customization for network devices from different vendors, leading to expensive and time-consuming integration in complex automation networks.

Innovation Solution

A building control system that assigns unique identifiers to network devices based on their operation and location, allowing for automatic communication and operation coordination using a hierarchical addressing scheme and open-system protocols like BACnet, enabling interoperability among devices from various manufacturers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If external configuration tools are used to bind network devices to the building automation system, then the system can be set up and operated, but the process requires expert knowledge and becomes expensive and time-consuming for complex networks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of configurationVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic device binding where network devices self-configure and bind to the building automation system without requiring external configuration tools or expert intervention. Devices automatically generate and exchange binding information, enabling the system to configure itself autonomously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes binding information and device identifiers in advance during device manufacturing or initialization. This preliminary configuration allows devices to automatically bind to the system upon installation without requiring post-installation configuration by experts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If network devices from various vendors are integrated into the building automation system, then system versatility is improved, but customization and interoperability become complex and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevendor compatibilityVSAvoidintegration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal binding mechanism that works across devices from different vendors. The binding information structure and automatic binding process are vendor-agnostic, allowing any network device to integrate with the building automation system using the same standardized approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses configurable binding information parameters that can adapt to different device types and vendors. The binding mechanism accepts various device parameters and automatically adjusts the binding process, enabling interoperability without vendor-specific customization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If manual configuration and binding of network devices is performed, then device integration is achieved, but the process is expensive and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice integration reliabilityVSAvoidintegration speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables network devices to automatically bind to the building automation system through self-service mechanisms. Devices autonomously generate binding information, exchange it with the system, and establish connections without manual configuration, dramatically improving integration speed while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where devices automatically verify binding status and report to the system. This continuous feedback ensures reliable integration while eliminating the need for manual verification steps, accelerating the overall integration process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9325573B2Building control system
Publication Date: 2016.04.26 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC BUILDINGS AB
  • US9325573B2 patent drawing
  • US9325573B2 patent drawing
  • US9325573B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of operating a building control system includes installing a plurality of network devices to a communications network. Each of the plurality of network devices performs a device operation. The method also includes assigning an identifier to each of the plurality of network devices. The identifier is based on the device operation and a device location. The method further includes communicating information and coordinating operations automatically among the plurality of network devices based on the identifier.