Scalable Building Control System Using Modular Network Bridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current building control systems either lack advanced features and flexibility or are complex and costly, making them unsuitable for scalable applications from single room control to entire building control, requiring consumers to reinstall systems or compromise on features and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A scalable building control system comprising an in-room device, load controller, and network bridge, enabling wireless communication and centralized control, allowing for easy scaling from single room to entire building control with modular architecture and minimal programming requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized control system is implemented to provide advanced features and building-wide control, then the system functionality and flexibility are improved, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent modular units (room control devices, load controllers, network bridges) that can be deployed incrementally. Each module functions autonomously but can be integrated into a centralized network, allowing the system to scale from simple room-level control to complex building-wide control without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The load controller and network bridge are designed as multi-functional devices that can operate in multiple modes: standalone room control mode, centralized control mode, and hybrid mode. This universality allows the same hardware platform to serve both simple and complex control requirements, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an advanced centralized control system is deployed to provide comprehensive building control, then the system features are improved, but the installation cost and programming requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic device discovery, self-registration, and configuration capabilities. When a load controller or network bridge is installed, it automatically detects the network topology, registers itself with appropriate controllers, and configures communication parameters without requiring manual programming or expert commissioning, significantly reducing installation complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes pre-configured communication protocols, default operational parameters, and built-in configuration templates that are prepared in advance. This preliminary configuration work eliminates the need for complex on-site programming and allows installers to deploy the system quickly by simply connecting devices rather than configuring them.
3Ease of operation
If a standalone room control system is used to maintain simplicity and low cost, then the installation ease is improved, but the system scalability and advanced features are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The room control system is designed as a nested modular structure where basic room control devices can be independently deployed for simple applications, but additional network bridges and centralized controllers can be nested into the existing infrastructure to provide expanded functionality. This allows the system to grow from simple to complex configurations without requiring complete reinstallation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture is dynamically configurable, allowing it to adapt its operational mode based on the number and type of devices deployed. A single room can operate independently with basic controls, but as more devices are added, the system automatically enables centralized control features and networked functionality, providing scalability without sacrificing initial simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A scalable building control system comprising a plurality of network bridges and plurality of zone control systems each comprising one or more zone control devices and a load controller. Each zone control device is adapted to generate and transmit load control messages over a zone wireless network. The a load controller is adapted to receive the load control messages over the zone wireless network and control an electrically connected load device in response to the load control messages. Each of the plurality of network bridges is adapted to removably couple to at least one load controller of a zone wireless network to connect the zone control system as a node of a centralized wireless network. The network bridge is further adapted to transmit messages between the centralized wireless network and a connected load controller.