Building Control Module Commissioning With Time Sync and Pre-Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for commissioning control modules in building automation systems are cumbersome, particularly in setting date and time, and require manual entry, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, and lack efficient methods for parameterization and functional testing.

Innovation Solution

A parameterization device with a module interface for power and data exchange, an electronic control unit, data memory, and modes for easy parameterization, time synchronization, and functional testing, allowing for quick and remote configuration of control modules, including data and time copying between modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual entry of date and time is used in control modules, then the control module can be configured, but the process is time-consuming and prone to errors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of date and time settingVSAvoidtime required for manual entry

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a copying function that allows date and time data to be copied from a parameterization device to control modules. This eliminates manual entry by automatically transferring the data, thereby reducing the time required and eliminating human errors associated with manual input.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The parameterization device serves as an intermediary between the user and the control modules. Instead of manually entering data into each control module, the user inputs data once into the parameterization device, which then automatically distributes it to multiple control modules, saving time and ensuring consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If functional testing is performed after control module installation, then the settings can be verified, but additional actuator activation is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveverification of control module settingsVSAvoidcomplexity of functional test setup

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables functional testing to be performed before the control module is installed in the building automation system. The parameterization device can execute functional tests on the control module in advance, verifying settings and detecting potential issues before deployment, thereby simplifying the overall process and reducing the need for post-installation testing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple control modules are parameterized individually, then each module can be configured, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration capability of control modulesVSAvoidspeed of parameterization process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The parameterization device is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple types of control modules through a single interface. It can store multiple parameterization data sets and automatically adapt to different control module types, enabling efficient configuration of multiple modules without requiring separate procedures for each one.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3226086B1Method for putting into operation control modules of a building automation system

Publication Date: 2022.10.19 SOMFY ACTIVITES SA

AI summary

Method for commissioning a control module (108) equipped with a user interface (116), which is intended to be mounted on building walls and to control an actuator (104) of a building automation system (100) both manually by a human user and automatically, wherein the control module (108) is connected to a parameterization device (200) for power supply and data exchange, and wherein the current time and/or the current date are exchanged between the parameterization device (200) and the control module (108).