Programmable peripheral unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Building automation systems (BAS) face challenges with high installation costs and network failures in wireless communication systems, particularly for peripheral devices lacking local computing intelligence, which can lead to communication failures and operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A programmable wireless peripheral unit equipped with a processor and memory for local programming, enabling embedded interpreters to execute scripts and programs independently, even in the absence of network connectivity, allowing for normal and fail-safe modes of operation, and supporting live updates through a wireless communication network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If wireless communication is used to reduce installation costs, then installation cost is reduced, but network failure risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral unit stores multiple scripts locally in its memory before network failures occur. These pre-stored scripts include normal operation scripts and fail-safe scripts, enabling the device to switch to alternative operation modes when network connectivity is lost, thereby maintaining reliability while using wireless communication
Solution Approach 2:
The peripheral unit executes scripts locally on its own processor without requiring continuous network connectivity or centralized control. The device monitors its own operational state and automatically switches between scripts based on network availability and operational conditions, making it self-sufficient and reducing network failure risk
2Reliability
If local computing intelligence is added to peripheral units, then operational reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor in the peripheral unit is designed to universally execute multiple different scripts for various operational modes (normal operation, fail-safe modes, etc.). This multi-functional capability allows a single processing unit to handle diverse operational requirements without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function, thus improving reliability while limiting the increase in complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters by switching between different pre-stored scripts rather than dynamically generating complex control logic. The processor executes different scripts based on operational conditions, allowing the device to adapt its behavior without increasing the fundamental complexity of its computing architecture
Data Source
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AI summary
The embodiments describe programmable peripheral units for use in a building automation system. The programmable peripheral units communicate with controllers and other system components. The programmable peripheral units have end device components to actuate the building environment.