Controller Actuator State Coordination via Segmented Messaging
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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 acknowledgement messages, trigger setups, and predetermined commands in case of failures or timeouts, with the ability to execute actions autonomously if no confirmation is received within a specified time.
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 segments control functions by designating one controller as the primary controller and others as secondary controllers. Each controller has specific responsibilities: the primary controller initiates commands and receives acknowledgments, while secondary controllers execute commands and provide backup. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliability through distributed control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary message-passing mechanism where controllers exchange standardized commands and acknowledgments. This intermediary communication protocol simplifies the coordination between multiple controllers by providing a uniform interface, reducing the complexity of direct peer-to-peer coordination while ensuring reliable control.
2Reliability
If controllers send acknowledgment messages to confirm command receipt, then control reliability is improved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the acknowledgment function from a continuous communication stream and implements it as discrete, event-driven messages. Acknowledgments are sent only when specific events occur (command receipt, execution completion), rather than maintaining constant communication. This reduces communication overhead while preserving reliability through targeted confirmation messages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic acknowledgment messages at critical junctures in the control sequence. Rather than continuous communication, acknowledgments are sent at specific intervals or trigger points (when commands are received, when execution begins, when completion is achieved). This periodic action maintains reliability while minimizing communication overhead.
3Measurement precision
If controllers wait for confirmation messages before executing commands, then control accuracy is improved, but response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the primary controller send commands to both secondary controllers simultaneously or in rapid succession, rather than waiting for sequential acknowledgments. Secondary controllers are prepared to execute commands immediately upon receipt, and acknowledgments are processed in the background. This preliminary command distribution maintains control accuracy through confirmation while reducing response time through parallel processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the waiting behavior of controllers based on command criticality and system state. For time-sensitive commands, controllers execute immediately with post-execution verification. For critical commands requiring high accuracy, controllers wait for confirmations. This dynamic approach balances control accuracy with response time based on real-time requirements.
4Reliability
If the system implements timeout mechanisms for failed commands, then system reliability is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic timeout detection and retry mechanisms. When a controller does not receive an acknowledgment within a predetermined time, the system automatically retransmits the command or activates backup controllers without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach improves system reliability while minimizing the complexity of manual control procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for potential failures by implementing beforehand cushioning through predetermined timeout values and backup command sequences. Before executing critical commands, the system establishes timeout thresholds and ready-state backup controllers. If primary commands fail, pre-prepared backup commands are automatically activated. This prior cushioning improves reliability while keeping control complexity manageable through pre-planned responses.
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, controllers are adapted to send commands from a first controller to an actuator and to a second controller, and from the second controller to the actuator and to the first controller, where the controllers store a state of the actuator as a result of the actuator executing the command.