Automated presence detection and presence-related control within an intelligent controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control systems lack the flexibility and intelligence to adaptively select operational modes and adjust control outputs based on the presence or absence of entities within a controlled environment, leading to inefficiencies and incorrect inferences.
Innovation Solution
Intelligent controllers that utilize sensor output and electronically stored information, such as rules and parameters, to determine the presence or absence of entities, adjusting control schedules and parameters to minimize errors and maximize efficiency by continuously refining their data based on feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional control systems are used to maintain predetermined system behavior, then system stability is maintained, but the system lacks flexibility to adapt to presence or absence of entities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensor output is continuously monitored and fed back to the controller. The controller compares actual sensor readings with expected values and automatically adjusts control outputs to maintain desired behavior patterns. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to presence or absence of entities without requiring complex manual reconfiguration, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system performs self-adjustment based on sensor feedback and stored behavioral patterns. When entities are detected or absent, the system automatically selects appropriate operational modes and modifies control schedules without human intervention. This self-service capability provides adaptability to presence/absence conditions while maintaining relatively simple controller architecture.
2Productivity
If control systems continuously monitor and adjust based on sensor feedback, then operational efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring and adjustment cycles rather than continuous operation. The controller monitors sensor output at defined intervals and adjusts control parameters periodically based on detected patterns. This periodic action maintains operational efficiency by responding to presence/absence events while reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial monitoring and adjustment actions based on confidence levels. When sensor data clearly indicates presence or absence of entities, the system makes definitive control adjustments. When data is ambiguous, the system uses conservative partial adjustments or maintains current operation, optimizing the balance between operational efficiency and energy consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes a system that operates according to a control schedule; detects events that indicate occupancy; stores a record of the events that indicate occupancy in one or more memory devices; and enters an auto-away state. A determination to enter the auto-away state may be based at least in part on a length of a time interval during which no events that indicate occupancy were detected and the stored record of the events that indicate occupancy. The system may also detect a pattern of instances where the auto-away state is entered over a plurality of days and adjusts the control schedule based at least in part on the pattern of instances where the auto-away state is entered.