Shading Control Network Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home automation systems for controlling motorized shades and lighting face challenges with network topologies that are inefficient in power distribution and prone to single-point failures, with conventional solutions requiring separate installation of transformers that are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid star and linked network with power storage capability at each node, utilizing a daisy-chain topology for motorized roller shades, where each node includes a battery and a relay switch network for power distribution and recharging, and a Zigbee mesh network for communication, allowing for efficient power management and reliable communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional bus network topology is used for shade control, then implementation cost is low, but network reliability deteriorates due to single point of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into multiple independent paths using a mesh topology where each node (shade, control device) connects to multiple other nodes. This creates redundant communication routes so that if one path fails, data can still reach its destination through alternative paths, eliminating the single point of failure problem while maintaining cost-effectiveness through standardized networking components.
2Reliability
If separate transformers are installed for each shade, then power distribution is reliable, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power distribution and data communication into a single integrated network infrastructure. Instead of installing separate transformers for each shade, the system uses a unified mesh network that delivers both power and control signals through the same communication paths, dramatically reducing device complexity and installation requirements while maintaining reliable power delivery to each shade.
Solution Approach 2:
The network nodes are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - they serve as both power distribution points and data communication relays. Each shade and control device acts as a multi-functional node that can receive power, transmit control signals, and relay data for other devices, eliminating the need for dedicated single-function components like separate transformers.
3Device complexity
If centralized control architecture is used, then system control is simplified, but network vulnerability to single point of failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functionality across multiple distributed nodes rather than concentrating it in a single central controller. Each node in the mesh network can independently process and relay control signals, creating a distributed control architecture that maintains simplicity through standardized node behavior while achieving resilience through redundancy - if one node fails, others continue to handle control functions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a reliable and efficient network for controlling motorized shades and lighting, reducing construction costs and improving power management by eliminating the need for separate transformers and enhancing network resilience through power storage and recharging capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
each of said electronic drive units comprises an elongated motor and a battery, and said battery is configured to provide operating power to said elongated motor
Implementation Method 2
said intelligent hub provides a re-charging current to said battery in each of said one or more electronic drive units via a power-over-Ethernet cable
Data Source
AI summary
A control system (700) is disclosed that includes a room controller (704) transmitting signals to both a shade control network (716) and a light control network (718), directing that motorized roller shades (106) and dimmable lights (714) be set to desired intensity levels. The control system further includes an intelligent hub (710) that provides a trickle-charge re-charge current via power-over-Ethernet cables to batteries associated with each of the motorized roller shades for re-charging the batteries, thereby eliminating power supplies being installed within walls. The intelligent hub provides for communication with the room controller based on streaming protocol and with the shade control network based on event-based protocol. A computer (414) running user interface software may be connected to the system to facilitate programing.