ML Platform for Coordinated Multi-Device Facility Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems struggle to coordinate the operation of multiple devices within facilities, leading to inefficiencies and interferences due to differences in device manufacturers and input compatibility, resulting in unpredictable behaviors and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A management system utilizing a machine-learning model to generate commands for devices based on operation objectives, accounting for device constraints and interactions, enabling coordinated operation regardless of manufacturer and input compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices from different manufacturers are used in a facility system, then device versatility and adaptability are improved, but device compatibility and coordinated operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gateway device as an intermediary layer between diverse facility devices and the control system. This gateway translates various device protocols and formats into a standardized internal representation, enabling coordinated operation of devices from different manufacturers without requiring direct compatibility between them. The gateway mediates communication and resolves protocol conflicts.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed with universal functionality to manage multiple types of devices through a unified interface. The system can operate devices in different modes (manual, automatic, coordinated) and supports various device types (thermostats, sensors, actuators) through a single platform, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific control systems.
2Productivity
If automatic operation of devices is implemented based on sensor outputs, then operational efficiency is improved, but device interference and undesired outcomes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors device operation states and environmental conditions through sensors, and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust device behavior. The control system evaluates sensor inputs against predefined rules and objectives, making real-time decisions to optimize device operation while preventing interference. Feedback loops enable the system to detect and correct undesired outcomes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures coordination rules and operational objectives before devices begin automatic operation. These preliminary settings define how devices should interact, what priorities to follow, and what conditions trigger specific actions. By establishing coordination protocols in advance, the system prevents interference before it occurs.
3Ease of operation
If devices operate independently without coordination, then device simplicity and ease of operation are maintained, but system-wide efficiency and energy consumption deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges individual device operations into a coordinated system-level operation. The control system combines information from multiple sensors and devices to make holistic decisions that optimize overall system performance. For example, it coordinates lighting, HVAC, and security devices to work together synergistically, reducing total energy consumption while maintaining individual device simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A management system implements a platform operable to receive input specifying operation objectives for a target system. The management system employs a machine-learning model to process the operation objectives and generate commands for devices of the target system based on the operation objectives. The operation objectives are provided to the machine-learning model as natural language input in some instances. The commands are executed by the devices in order to coordinate operation of the devices and satisfy the operation objectives.