Modular Building Control Configuration With Auto Module Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and configuration of building control systems, such as HVAC and security systems, are time-consuming and costly due to the varying needs of different buildings, requiring a streamlined method to reduce setup time and costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular building control system configuration method involving a base module and expansion modules, where the base module collects information from expansion modules, creates a system configuration, and transmits parameters for installation, while checking compatibility and alerting on incompatibilities, potentially with cloud server assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration methods are used for building control systems, then system compatibility can be ensured, but installation and configuration time becomes excessive and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base module automatically collects information from expansion modules and pre-configures system parameters before full operation begins. The configuration data is gathered in advance during installation, including module identifiers, communication protocols, and functional parameters, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual configuration later
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-configuration through automated information exchange between modules. The base module autonomously collects technical and functional parameters from expansion modules, generates configuration data, and distributes it back to modules without requiring manual intervention, enabling the system to configure itself
2Productivity
If automated configuration is implemented, then installation time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration system is divided into distinct functional modules: the base module handles information collection and configuration generation, while expansion modules provide self-identification and parameter reporting. This segmentation distributes complexity across multiple simple components rather than concentrating it in a single complex unit
Solution Approach 2:
The base module serves multiple functions: it acts as a communication hub, information collector, configuration generator, and distributor. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate dedicated systems into a single versatile component, reducing overall system complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If comprehensive information collection is performed from all modules, then accurate system configuration is achieved, but data processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential configuration parameters needed for system operation from each module. Rather than collecting all possible data, the base module specifically requests and processes critical information such as module identifiers, communication capabilities, and functional parameters, filtering out unnecessary data
Solution Approach 2:
Expansion modules prepare their configuration data in advance by maintaining ready-to-transmit information about their technical specifications and functional parameters. This preliminary preparation allows the base module to quickly collect and process data without requiring time-consuming queries or computations during the configuration phase
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for configuring a modular building control system. An illustrative method may include entering a configuration mode in a base module and in each of the expansion modules. While in the configuration mode, the base module may collect information from each of the expansion modules. A system configuration may be created for the modular building control system based at least in part on the collected information and includes configuration parameters for the base module and each of the expansion modules. The base module may transmit to each of the expansion modules their respective configuration parameters. The base module and each of the expansion modules may install their respective configuration parameters, exit the configuration mode, and enter an operation mode. While in the operation mode, the base module and each of the expansion modules may control the modular building control system.