Wireless Controller Roaming for Seamless Load Control Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In load control environments, users face difficulties in configuring load control systems due to the need to connect to specific system controllers within range, as movement can lead to loss of connection or interference from stronger signals, requiring complex IT involvement and increasing the risk of errors.
Innovation Solution
A load control system that includes system controllers capable of seamless communication through a proprietary channel, using a gateway system controller to forward messages between network devices and target system controllers, allowing users to configure devices independently of their location and maintaining connectivity by switching between wireless connections based on signal strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users connect to system controllers within wireless range for configuration, then device configuration can be performed, but connection is lost when users move outside range or into stronger signal areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gateway system controller as an intermediary that receives configuration requests from network devices via wireless connection and forwards them to the target system controller. This mediator allows users to connect to any controller in the network while configuring a specific target controller, eliminating the need for direct connection to the target and preventing connection loss when users move between wireless ranges.
2Measurement precision
If users need to connect to specific system controllers for configuration, then precise control is achieved, but IT involvement is required and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables network devices to autonomously connect to the gateway system controller and configure target system controllers without requiring IT department intervention. The gateway automatically routes configuration requests to the appropriate target controller based on the device's location and selected target, allowing end-users to perform precise configurations independently.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple system controllers provide independent wireless networks, then localized control is achieved, but seamless switching between controllers is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal wireless network where all system controllers share a common SSID and security credentials. This allows network devices to seamlessly roam between different system controllers' wireless ranges while maintaining continuous connectivity to the load control system. The gateway system controller provides multi-functionality by handling both local wireless communications and inter-controller routing.
Data Source
AI summary
A load control system may be provided including control devices and a system controller. The system controller may be configured to broadcast a service set identifier (SSID) and provide a wireless network connection to a network device. The system controller may provide a web page to the network device, wherein the web page may include an indication of target system controllers. The target system controllers may be used for configuring (e.g., associating) the control devices. The system controller may receive an indication of a target system controller selected to associate the control devices. The system controller may determine an address and port number of the target system controller identified by the network device. The system controller may provide, to the network device, the web page from the target system controller while the network device is connected to the system controller via the wireless network connection.