Modular Occupancy Control Units for Predictive Load Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical wiring systems in buildings are difficult and costly to modify, and traditional switches and outlets rely on existing wiring for control, limiting flexibility and safety in upgrading or replacing electrical components.
Innovation Solution
A modular control system with communicatively coupled units that detect occupancy states and predict future occupancy to control power distribution, allowing for interchangeable device control assemblies that can be easily swapped without modifying the electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electrical wiring systems are modified to upgrade switches and outlets, then control functionality can be improved, but the modification process becomes difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electrical control function into separate modular components: a permanent wiring interface module installed in the electrical junction box and interchangeable device control assemblies that can be swapped without modifying wiring. This segmentation allows control functionality to be upgraded by simply replacing the control assembly rather than rewiring the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a universal wiring interface module as an intermediary between the existing electrical wiring system and the controllable devices. This interface module provides standardized connection points that accept various device control assemblies, acting as a mediator that enables easy upgrading without direct modification of the original wiring.
2Device complexity
If existing wiring is relied upon for control, then system simplicity is maintained, but flexibility and safety in upgrading components are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring interface module is designed with universal connection capabilities that can accommodate multiple types of device control assemblies through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows the same wiring infrastructure to support various upgrading scenarios without compromising system simplicity or requiring complex reconfiguration.
3Extent of automation
If modular control units are implemented with occupancy prediction, then automation and energy efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device control assemblies incorporate occupancy prediction algorithms that analyze historical occupancy data and sensor inputs to forecast future occupancy states. This preliminary action allows the system to proactively adjust lighting and electrical loads before occupancy changes occur, enhancing automation while managing complexity through predictive rather than reactive control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where occupancy sensors provide real-time data to the control assemblies, which adjust lighting and power distribution accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables automated occupancy-based control by constantly monitoring and responding to actual occupancy conditions, balancing automation benefits with manageable system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for networked occupancy detection and prediction is disclosed. The system may include two or more modular control units configured to be communicatively coupled to each other, each modular control unit configured to define a detection zone and control power to at least one load device, which may include a device control assembly configured to be removably coupled to a backplate. The device control assembly may include an occupancy sensor configured to detect a current occupancy state of a detection zone. The device control assembly may be configured to determine occupancy routines based on historical occupancy states of the detection zone and to predict future occupancy states. The device control assembly may be configured to control the power to the at least one load device based on the predicted future occupancy states.