Location-Based Load Control Using Mobile Device Presence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems cannot automatically adjust electrical loads, such as lighting and temperature, based on the location of a user or their mobile device within a building, limiting personalized control and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A load control system that includes a controller determining the location of a mobile device and automatically controlling electrical loads through wireless communication, using a system controller and load control devices that adjust settings based on the device's presence and unique identifier, with features like beacon signals and signal strength analysis to determine location and occupancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If load control systems use traditional occupancy sensors and control devices, then basic automation is achieved, but personalized control based on user location and mobile device is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device serves multiple functions: it acts as a location identifier, a control source device, and a user interface all in one. The system uses the mobile device's unique identifier and location data to trigger load control operations, eliminating the need for separate occupancy sensors and control devices while enabling personalized control based on which mobile device is present in the space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects the mobile device's presence and determines its location without requiring manual input from the user. The controller receives wireless signals from the mobile device, determines the device's location in the building, and automatically transmits appropriate control commands to load control devices based on the determined location, enabling self-service operation.
2Loss of energy
If the system automatically controls electrical loads based on mobile device location, then energy efficiency and comfort are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the mobile device's location by receiving wireless signals and determining the device's position in the building. This location information serves as feedback that automatically triggers appropriate load control actions, such as adjusting lighting or HVAC systems in the detected space, thereby improving energy efficiency through location-based automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the mobile device and the load control devices. It receives wireless signals from the mobile device, determines location based on these signals, and then transmits control commands to the appropriate load control devices. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing the intelligence in the controller rather than requiring complex embedded systems in each load control device.
3Extent of automation
If control-source devices can control loads based on user location, then automated personalized control is achieved, but existing systems lack the capability to determine location and transmit appropriate commands
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device automatically provides location information to the controller without requiring the user to manually input their location or select control options. The controller determines the mobile device's location in the building and automatically transmits the appropriate control commands to load control devices, achieving high automation while maintaining ease of operation through self-service functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A load control system for controlling an electrical load in a space of a building occupied by an occupant may include a controller configured to determine the location of the occupant, and a load control device configured to automatically control the electrical load in response to the location of the occupant. The load control system may include a mobile device adapted to be located on or immediately adjacent the occupant and configured to transmit and receive wireless signals. The load control device may be configured to automatically control the electrical load when the mobile device is located in the space. The load control system may further comprise an occupancy sensor and the load control device may automatically control the electrical load when the occupancy sensor indicates that the space is occupied and the mobile device is located in the space.