Lighting Fixture Identification Using Area-Based Flashing Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load control systems require cumbersome and time-consuming association methods for control-source and control-target devices, involving physical button actuation and knowledge of device locations, making it difficult to configure and control electrical loads efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A load control system with a network device for area-by-area configuration, using a flashing profile to identify devices and associate control-source devices with control-target devices, allowing for automated recognition of digital messages and control of electrical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional association methods are used for control devices, then device association can be achieved, but the configuration process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical association methods (physical button actuation, device-by-device pairing) with an automated optical identification system. The system uses a network device to capture images of lighting fixtures, automatically identify them through image processing, and associate them with control devices without requiring manual intervention for each pairing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the network device autonomously performs device identification and association tasks. The lighting fixtures are automatically detected, identified through their visual characteristics, and linked to appropriate control devices without requiring users to manually configure each connection, thereby eliminating the need for time-consuming step-by-step association procedures.
2Measurement precision
If manual device identification methods are used, then control devices can be associated with correct locations, but the process requires physical access and knowledge of device locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual location identification methods (physical inspection, location memorization, device-by-device searching) with an automated optical recognition system. The network device captures images of lighting fixtures and uses image processing to automatically identify and locate devices, eliminating the need for users to physically access or manually track device locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary image processing mechanism between the user and the physical devices. Instead of directly interacting with physical devices to identify their locations, users provide images that serve as intermediaries, and the system automatically processes these images to identify device locations and establish associations, thereby simplifying the configuration process.
3Productivity
If automated association methods are implemented, then configuration time is reduced, but the system requires network device and image processing capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the multi-functionality of existing network devices by having them perform both their traditional networking functions and the additional function of image capture and processing for device identification. This allows a single device to serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment and minimizing additional infrastructure requirements while achieving automated high-speed configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Control-source devices may be associated with control-target devices of a load control system during a configuration procedure, such that the control-target devices are responsive to the associated control-source devices during normal operation. The configuration procedure may be executed using a network device having a visual display for associating the control-source devices and control-target devices. The control-source devices may be associated with the control-target devices on an area-by-area basis using an area configuration procedure. The control-target devices may be configured to flash a controlled lighting load according to a flashing profile during the configuration procedure. The flashing profile may be characterized by at least one abrupt transition between off and on, and at least one gradual transition between off and on, where the abrupt and gradual transitions are repeated on a periodic basis.