Programmable Building Control via Network Wiring and Micro-Computers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for devices in buildings are unreliable due to wireless transmissions and often require excessive wiring, leading to high installation costs and potential structural damage.
Innovation Solution
A programmable control system utilizing a main computer with a processor and memory, connected to a wireless router and network wiring, which extends through walls to micro-computers with circuit boards and switches, allowing for wired connections and remote control via a portable input device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If wireless transmissions are used for control systems, then installation is easier and less damaging to structure, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses existing network wiring infrastructure as an intermediary medium to transmit control signals. The system incorporates a network interface card and utilizes the building's existing Ethernet wiring to connect control devices, thereby achieving reliable wired communication without requiring new dedicated control wiring throughout the structure.
2Reliability
If excessive wiring is used for control systems, then reliability improves, but installation cost increases and structural damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing network wiring infrastructure serve multiple functions: it simultaneously provides both data communication for control signals and power delivery through Power over Ethernet (POE) technology. This eliminates the need for separate control wiring and reduces installation costs by utilizing already-installed network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing network infrastructure to provide its own control signaling and power delivery capabilities. The network wiring automatically carries both data and power without requiring additional dedicated circuits, allowing the infrastructure to serve itself for control purposes.
3Reliability
If extensive wiring is installed through walls, then device control reliability improves, but structural damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs the existing network wiring as an intermediary transmission medium that already traverses the building structure. By utilizing this pre-installed infrastructure, the system achieves reliable point-to-point control signal transmission without creating new pathways through walls, thereby avoiding additional structural damage.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a programmable control system for devices and appliances in a home or commercial building. The system includes a main computer connected to network wiring throughout a home or commercial structure that is connected to a number of micro-computers. The programmable control system also includes an input device that has buttons programmatically associated with selected switches and activators throughout the home or building. The input device is connected to the micro-computers which receives signals from the programmable buttons. The micro-computers then activate selected switches or activators associated with selected devices or appliances in the home or commercial structure.