Load Controller Fade-Time Coordination for Overlapping Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems are limited by a common fade time for controlling multiple load control parameters, leading to deviations in fade rates and inefficiencies when transitioning between different control parameters.
Innovation Solution
A load controller determines updated target values for each parameter based on a shorter remaining fade time to maintain continuous fade rates, allowing simultaneous control of multiple parameters within a limited fade time constraint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a common fade time is used for all load control parameters, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to deviations in fade rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control of different load control parameters by assigning each parameter its own dedicated fade time value, rather than using a common fade time for all parameters. This allows each parameter to be controlled with precise fade rate independently, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and fade rate precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If different fade times are assigned to different load control parameters, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of fade time from a fixed common value to variable values specific to each load control parameter. By allowing the fade time parameter to vary per parameter being controlled, the system achieves precise fade rate control for each parameter while managing complexity through systematic parameter assignment.
3Productivity
If the fade time is extended to control multiple parameters, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to limited fade time constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment of fade time values based on the specific requirements of each load control parameter. The system dynamically selects appropriate fade time values from a set of available values, allowing flexible adaptation to different control scenarios while maintaining fade rate accuracy and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A load controller in a load control system may communicate messages with load control devices for controlling electrical loads. The load controller may receive messages that comprise values for controlling different load control parameters over different overlapping fade times. The load controller may identify a shorter remaining fade time for controlling one of the load control parameters and may determine an updated target value for controlling another load control parameter over the shorter remaining fade time. The load controller may transmit a series of messages within a limited fade time using an updated target value for each message to control an electrical load at a fade rate that during a fade time that is longer than the limited fade time.