Load Control Network Coordination for Router Capacity Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Home Wi-Fi routers often have practical capacity limitations, typically supporting fewer than 30 addressable devices, which can lead to network congestion when numerous load control devices, such as smart lighting and thermostats, exceed this limit.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a load control device with a controllably conductive mechanism and a controller that can join a wireless communication network using a specific protocol. This device includes both a primary wireless communication circuit for communicating via a first protocol and a secondary communication circuit for alternative protocols, allowing it to adapt and connect to the network efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple load control devices connect to a Wi-Fi network, then network functionality and remote control capability are improved, but network congestion and router capacity limitations occur when exceeding 30 devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mesh network topology where load control devices communicate indirectly through intermediate devices rather than all directly to the router. This intermediary communication approach allows devices to bypass router capacity limitations while maintaining network connectivity and control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The network is segmented into multiple wireless communication networks or channels. Instead of all devices competing for a single Wi-Fi network resource, devices are divided into separate networks or groups, reducing congestion on any single network and improving overall reliability.
2Device complexity
If load control devices use a single wireless protocol, then device simplicity and manufacturing cost are reduced, but adaptability to different network environments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The load control device is designed with multiple wireless communication circuits that support different protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee). This multi-functionality allows the same device to adapt to various network environments and communication standards without requiring separate devices for each protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The device dynamically selects which wireless communication circuit to use based on the available network environment. Rather than being fixed to one protocol, the system can switch between protocols adaptively, optimizing connectivity while managing complexity through intelligent selection rather than simultaneous activation of all circuits.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus may control the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load, and may comprise a controllably conductive device. The apparatus may also comprise a controller that may be operatively coupled to a control input of the controllably conductive device. The apparatus may also include a first wireless communication circuit operable to communicate via a first protocol and to join a first wireless communication network operable to communicate via the first protocol. The first wireless communication circuit may be in communication with the controller. The controller may be operative to determine a first condition for communicating via the first protocol. The controller may also be operable to control the first wireless communication circuit to join the first wireless communication network upon the first condition being satisfied.