HEMS Controller Fail-Safe Remote Appliance Shutdown
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for appliances, such as air conditioners, are limited in geographical range and cannot perform control instructions when direct radio communication with the mobile terminal is not established, restricting user control outside the usual communication range.
Innovation Solution
A controller system that includes a communication unit, storage unit, and processor to receive instructions from a mobile terminal via a server, allowing the transmission of control signals to an electric appliance even when connection with the server is not maintained, by storing and sending specific control signals to ensure appliance safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct radio communication between mobile terminal and appliance is used, then control can be performed in real-time with confirmed execution, but control is limited to a narrow geographical range where direct communication is possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that relays control instructions between the mobile terminal and the appliance. When direct radio communication is not possible, the mobile terminal sends instructions to the server, which then transmits them to the appliance. This mediator approach enables control beyond direct communication range while maintaining system coordination through the server's message queue mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control instructions are transmitted via server when direct communication is lost, then geographical control range is extended, but control execution confirmation becomes uncertain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by storing control instructions in the server's message queue before direct communication is needed. When the appliance later establishes direct communication with the mobile terminal, previously queued instructions are transmitted and executed. This ensures that control commands are not lost during communication interruptions and provides execution confirmation when direct communication is reestablished.
3Use of energy by moving object
If appliance continues operation during communication loss, then energy consumption is maintained, but safety cannot be ensured if direct communication is lost for extended periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors communication status with both the mobile terminal and server. When communication loss is detected beyond a threshold period, the controller automatically executes safety protocols such as turning off the appliance. This feedback loop ensures that energy consumption is reduced when safety cannot be guaranteed, while allowing normal operation when communication is reliable.
Data Source
AI summary
A HEMS controller receives a control instruction of an electric appliance from a mobile terminal via a server and transmits the control instruction to the electric appliance. When no instruction is given from the mobile terminal, the HEMS controller judges whether communication with the server is continued. When judging that communication is not continued, the HEMS controller transmits, to the electric appliance, a control signal for turning off power of the electric appliance.