Programmable Building Controller Terminals for Flexible I/O and Networking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Building controllers with fixed communication ports and I/O control terminals require additional equipment for expanded network capabilities or terminal functions, leading to costly and complex installations, even when ports or terminals are unused.
Innovation Solution
A building controller with programmable wiring terminals that can be field-configured to function as either communication ports or I/O control terminals, allowing users to dynamically set each terminal type based on need, including input, output, or communication protocols, enabling flexible network integration and terminal utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed communication ports and I/O control terminals are used in building controllers, then the controller can perform its basic functions reliably, but additional equipment is required when network expansion or additional terminals are needed, increasing installation cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements wiring terminals that can be dynamically reconfigured between different terminal types (input, output, communication) through field programming. This multi-functionality allows a single terminal to serve multiple purposes depending on configuration, eliminating the need for separate fixed terminals for each function and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiring terminals transition from static fixed assignments to dynamic reconfigurable assignments. The controller allows users to programmatically change terminal functions after installation, enabling adaptive reconfiguration based on changing system requirements without physical hardware changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional building controllers or equipment are added to expand network capabilities, then network functionality is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller provides universal wiring terminals that can function as communication ports or I/O terminals based on configuration. This allows the same hardware resources to serve multiple network expansion purposes without requiring separate dedicated equipment for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges communication port functionality and I/O terminal functionality into a single reconfigurable terminal system. By combining these functions in one programmable terminal, the system eliminates the need for separate communication modules and I/O modules, reducing the total quantity of equipment required.
3Ease of operation
If communication ports are left unused while I/O terminals are fully utilized, then I/O control capability is maintained, but network expansion opportunities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring terminals enable dynamic resource allocation where terminal functions can be changed from communication ports to I/O terminals or vice versa based on real-time system needs. This dynamic reconfiguration allows optimal resource utilization by matching terminal functionality to actual operational requirements rather than fixed assignments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the functional parameters of wiring terminals through field programming. By modifying terminal configuration parameters, the system can convert unused communication ports into active I/O terminals or convert I/O terminals into communication ports, maximizing resource utilization efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A building controller includes a housing and a plurality of wiring terminals that are secured relative to the housing and are physically accessible from outside of the housing. A controller is housed by the housing and is operatively coupled to the plurality of wiring terminals. The controller is field programmable to set each of two or more of the plurality of wiring terminals to a particular one of a plurality of wiring terminal types including an input wiring terminal type, an output wiring terminal type, and a communication wiring terminal type where the communication wiring terminal type operates in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.