Lighting Fixture Identification by Flashing Profile Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load control systems require time-consuming and inconvenient association methods for control-source and control-target devices, which involve physically actuating buttons and identifying device locations, making it difficult to configure devices effectively.
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 device recognition and control through digital messages, including global commands and zone configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional association methods are used to associate control-source devices with control-target devices, then device recognition is achieved, but configuration time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting fixture automatically generates and transmits its own identifier through the load control network without requiring manual intervention. The system performs self-configuration by autonomously establishing communication with the control-source device and registering its identifier, eliminating the need for users to physically actuate buttons or manually input device information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical button-actuation methods with electronic/digital communication protocols. Instead of requiring physical interaction with device buttons, the system uses digital message transmission over a load control network to convey device identifiers and establish associations, significantly reducing configuration time and complexity.
2Ease of operation
If manual device identification methods are used, then control-source devices can be associated with control-target devices, but the process becomes inconvenient and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting fixture autonomously performs the identification and association process by automatically transmitting its identifier through the load control network. This self-service approach eliminates the need for users to follow complex manual procedures, making the process more convenient and easier to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The load control network serves as an intermediary communication channel between the lighting fixture and the control-source device. This digital intermediary simplifies the association process by providing an automated communication pathway, replacing complex manual procedures with straightforward electronic message exchange.
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.