Control system for controlling multiple apparatuses in linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for linked devices require dedicated lines for communication, limiting their versatility and efficiency in controlling multiple devices in a single space.
Innovation Solution
A control system that uses a relay unit to facilitate communication between devices via a first communication line and an operating unit connected to a public communication network, allowing linked control without dedicated lines and enabling devices to be controlled via a control signal transmitted through the relay unit, with the operating unit obtaining necessary software over the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated lines are used to connect devices for linked control, then communication reliability between devices is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a router as an intermediary device that mediates communication between air conditioning devices. Instead of requiring direct dedicated connections between each device pair, the router acts as a central hub that routes control signals between devices using existing communication infrastructure, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining communication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables a single communication line to serve multiple devices simultaneously. The communication infrastructure is designed to handle multiple device connections universally, allowing control signals to be routed to different devices (air conditioners, floor heating systems) through the same communication channel, eliminating the need for separate dedicated lines for each device pair.
2Manufacturing precision
If dedicated lines are installed for device communication, then control precision is improved, but ease of operation and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The router serves as an intermediary that manages control signal routing between the operating unit and multiple devices. This intermediary approach maintains control precision by ensuring accurate signal delivery to the intended device while simplifying installation, as users only need to connect devices to the router using standard communication interfaces rather than installing complex dedicated communication lines between each device pair.
3Ease of operation
If application software is pre-installed on dedicated operating units, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic software distribution model where application software is not statically pre-installed on dedicated operating units but is instead downloaded and installed on-demand from remote servers. This dynamic approach allows the operating unit to adapt to different device configurations and control scenarios, significantly enhancing system versatility while maintaining ease of operation through automated software acquisition and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes software copying from remote servers to local operating units. Instead of each operating unit having unique pre-installed software, the system copies the necessary application software from a centralized server to the operating unit as needed. This copying mechanism enables the same operating unit to work with different device configurations and control scenarios, improving versatility without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A highly versatile control system which is able to control devices in a linked manner is provided. The control system is configured to condition air of a single space 9, and includes: an air conditioner 2 and a floor heating apparatus 3 which cannot directly communicate with each other; a router 4 which is able to communicate with the air conditioner 2 and the floor heating apparatus 3 via communication lines 11 and 12; and a terminal device 5 which is connectable to the Internet 10 and is able to communicate with the router 4 via a communication line 13. The air conditioner 2 and the floor heating apparatus 3 are controlled in a linked manner by a control signal sent from the terminal device 5 via the router 4.