Wireless Controller Remote Configuration via Click Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless control systems require manual configuration and physical access to controllers, making it inconvenient to configure features in settings where access is difficult or impossible, such as in industrial or commercial facilities.
Innovation Solution
A method for remotely configuring a controller using wireless signals, where specific click patterns trigger entry into programming mode, provide notifications for selected features through light flashing, dimming, audible sounds, or damper adjustments, and allow users to exit or configure settings without physical access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration method is used, then configuration accuracy is ensured, but physical access to controller is required which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical access requirement with a wireless communication system. The switch transmits configuration commands wirelessly to the controller, eliminating the need for physical access to the controller while maintaining configuration capability. This is achieved through wireless signal transmission between the switch and controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary system consisting of the switch and controller that mediates the configuration process. The switch acts as an intermediary device that can remotely send configuration commands to the controller without requiring direct physical access, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If physical access to controller is required, then direct configuration is possible, but usability in hard-to-reach environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical access requirement with a wireless communication system. The controller and switch communicate through wireless signals, allowing configuration from remote locations without physical access to the controller. This enables usability in hard-to-reach environments while maintaining configuration capability.
3Ease of operation
If wireless configuration is enabled, then ease of operation improves, but risk of unauthorized access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller provides notifications (visual, audible, or tactile) to confirm configuration mode entry and settings. This feedback loop ensures that only intentional actions take effect, providing a layer of security against unauthorized configuration changes while maintaining remote accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of remotely configuring a controller responsive to wireless signals includes entering a controller programming mode from a regular mode in response to at least one wireless signal corresponding to a first click pattern from a switch. The controller provides a first notification to indicate a first selected configurable feature of the controller. Each of a plurality of configurable features of the controller has a different assigned notification. The controller provides a second notification to indicate a second selected configurable feature in response to at least one wireless signal corresponding to a second click pattern from the switch. The method also includes exiting the programming mode. The notification may be a flashing of lights, a dimming of lights, an audible sound, an adjustment of a damper position, or a combination of these things.