AU2014100902A4 - Remotely operated controller for an electrically operated system - Google Patents

Abstract

A remotely operated electrical device controller 10 includes a receiver 14 for signals from a remote transmitter 19. A microprocessor 12 in the controller receives command signals 22 and outputs control signals 24a to a device 28 to be controlled e.g. a solenoid valve of a watering system. The remote transmitter may be a computer 19 or smart device or tablet providing command signals to the controller via a wireless or wired 24 connections. The microprocessor can be programmed with software updates. Multiple controllers 10 can receive command signals from a common remote transmitter 19, and slave controllers 36 can receive command signals from master controllers 10 i.e. daisy chaining control signals, via data/signal exchange 34 between the master and slave controllers. The system allows for full or partial automation and control of electrically operated systems, such as electrically operated reticulation systems, that can be user configured for improved control and updating.

Description

1 REMOTELY OPERATED CONTROLLER FOR AN ELECTRICALLY OPERATED SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a remotely operated controller for an electrically operated system. [0002] The present invention finds particular application as a remotely operated controller suitable for controlling electrical equipment, such as for use in a garden reticulation system, swimming pool chemical dosing or monitoring system, or other type of agricultural, commercial or residential electrically controlled system. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION [0003] Remote control of residential, commercial, agricultural or industrial electrically operated systems is usually carried out by a controller sending command signals to a base station that is hard wired to slave units to carry out the operation commanded by the remote controller. [0004] For example, a horticultural reticulation system (such as for a residential lawn/garden, parkland or commercial garden centre) typically consists of a base station hard wired to electrically operated solenoid valves to control flow of water to sprinklers and/or water hoses. The base station may be remotely controlled by a hand held device. Thus a user need not enter commands or settings directly into the base station, rather, can set up the base station or make changes to programs from a distance. [0005] For example, generally residential water reticulation systems for gardens, lawns and plant beds have a control unit that is situated within a garage, shed or secreted away on a non-obvious wall. A system of hard wiring is 2 provided to connect the control unit to each electrically controlled solenoid valve. The electrical connections and wires themselves deteriorate over time, leading to the solenoid valves not working correctly or not at all. [0006] Reticulation systems are known to exist whereby such base stations can be remotely controlled via the internet, applications (Apps) on mobile devices (tablets, laptop computers, mobile phones) through Wi-Fi applications. However, this only provides commands to the base unit. Hard wiring is still provided between the base unit and the operated device, such as the solenoid valve. [0007] Similarly, where a swimming pool has a chemical dosing or monitoring system and/or a filtration system to help control salinity, algae, microbes and suspended particulates etc., a central controller is usually provided that is hard wired to peripheral equipment, such as a chlorinator, pump, solar/gas/electric heating system. [0008] It has been realized that it would be desirable to provide a remotely controlled system whereby the device ultimately being controlled (such as a solenoid valve of a reticulation system) is controlled directly by a dedicated controller and need not be hard wired to a central base station for all of the controlled devices. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] With the aforementioned in mind, an aspect of the present invention provides a remotely operated electrical device controller, the controller including a wireless receiver to receive signals from a wireless remote transmitter, a microprocessor arranged and configured to receive command signals and to output control signals to the electrical device.

3 [0010] The controller may include a transmitter arranged and configured to transmit signals back to the remote controller and/or to one or more other of said controllers. [0011] The present invention is unique in that each controller may preferably receive signals wirelessly via a global computer network connection or internet connection, and therefore would not need a central control unit hard wired to each electrical device being controlled. [0012] Any one or more said controllers may act as a respective master controller to at least one slave controller, whereby, one or more said command signals may be relayed from the master controller(s) to the at least one slave controller(s). In this way, a master controller may form a network to control one or more slave controllers. [0013] Multiple master controllers may command one or more said slave controllers. Thus, if one master controller fails or cannot otherwise send commands to the slave controller, an alternative said master controller can provide control signals, thereby providing for redundancy in the system. [0014] The relayed command signal(s) may be modified by the master controller. For example, an "ON" or "OFF" command signal to the electrical device(s) controlled by the respective slave controller(s) may be delayed or advanced with respect to the master controller utilizing the command signal. This can provide a time controlled and/or input controlled signal, such as from a sensor (e.g. a signal indicating a low chemical level). [0015] The controller may include a memory device. The memory device may be programmable. Programmed instructions may be saved on the memory device or in the microprocessor. Thus, the microprocessor may include a said memory device. Programmed instructions may include calendar, time, "on" and "off" timing instructions and day/night information. In the event of communication 4 failure between a master and a slave controller and/or between a remote controller and the master controller(s), function can be maintained using the last known configuration. The controller may therefore also have the functionality to work autonomously until communication is regained. Autonomous function may be based on last known programming and/or last received commands. [0016] The controller may include or be connected to at least one sensor, such as one or more of a temperature, moisture/rain, humidity, wind speed or light level sensor. The controller may be connected wirelessly to said at least one sensor. [0017] The controller may communicate with one or more other said controllers, whether master or slave controllers. Communication may be provided by a transmitter provided within a respective said controller. [0018] For example, multiple said controllers may be provided to control various electrically operated devices. One controller may communicate command signals to one or all other said controllers. The receivers and microprocessors may receive, process and transmit operation signals to the electrical devices and/or transmit command signals to other controllers and/or transmit operation signals to the electrical devices of other controllers. [0019] A wireless networked control system can be provided, which may be remotely controlled from a chosen remote controller. Thus, a chosen remote control may communicate with any given controller in any configuration. For example, the remote controller may communicate with one master controller, multiple master controllers, one or more controllers acting as slave controllers, or combinations thereof. The remote controller provides the input interface receiving and forwarding commands to the controller(s), whereas the controller(s), master and subsequently the slave controllers, receive commands from that remote controller.

5 [0020] Utilising a wireless system, such as through a wireless internet modem, or using a wired or wireless Local Area Network (LAN) system, it is not necessary to physically (hard wire) connect every electrical device back to a central controller. [0021] Preferably one ore more of the controllers may be programmed to recognize the presence of another controller. [0022] One or more said controllers may be programmed with instructions/memory and connected to one or more sensors to manage operation of the electrical device(s) under its/their control. [0023] The controllers may be configured to 'work together' in a network of controllers to provide a robust adaptable system. [0024] The capability of the controller(s) can be such that almost any residential, commercial, agricultural or industrial electrical device, such as for the home, garden or office, can be controlled without the need for distributed wiring connections between a central controller and multiple said devices. [0025] The controllers may be modular, such that a system of the controllers is readily expandable from one, two three controllers upwards. Each controller may communicate with one or other of said controllers in a said network, as programmed. [0026] Physical parameters can be monitored or measured or detected in real time by the controller or network of said controllers. For example, one controller may monitor swimming pool water quality or chemical levels, and may report or act when signals fall outside of an expected range of acceptable values. [0027] The controller may initiate an alert signal to a user, such as transmitting a signal to remote location. The controller may transmit a pre- 6 programmed message, sound or other visual or audible alert to a user or authorized person. The controller may take corrective action, either autonomously or in response to a received command (such as a reply or response from the alerted person or user). The controller may, in response to a received reply or autonomously (because an alert needed sending), initiate or modify control of an electrical device e.g. to increase chemical levels (e.g. a chlorinator or chemical dosing device). [0028] Furthermore, the controller may provide an indication that servicing or repair is required for the electrical device(s) it controls and/or for itself and/or for one or more other controllers. A controller may be dedicated to monitoring function and/or condition of one or more other said controllers. For example, a maintenance schedule period may be stored by the microprocessor or interrogation signals from the remote controller to the controller may enquire of the controller on maintenance periods. Action may be taken by a user to maintain/repair the controller, such as changing or charging a battery within the controller, downloading memory data, or maintaining/repairing connections to said electrical device(s). [0029] One or more of the controllers may initiate an alert or message signal e.g. to a user. An email or SMS may be sent by the controller. For example, the controller may detect or sense a parameter falling outside of accepted values (such as a chemical imbalance in swimming pool water or a reticulation solenoid valve malfunction) and transmit an alert to the user or, in the case of a slave controller, transmit to a master controller for relaying to the user. [0030] Memory within the controller may be provided on a memory card or flash drive. Memory may be provided on a removable SD/micro SD/MMC or CF memory card. Thus programmed instructions and recorded data can be readily changed, recovered, updated, wiped etc. Furthermore, and importantly, the controller can be a generic controller suitable for controlling any desired electrical 7 device. All that is needed is to insert the memory card with desired instructions/programming to suit the device to be controlled. [0031] The present invention provides for simpler installation compared with a central control unit hard wired to multiple devices. Unlike the old style central control units, the present invention provides improved configuration and network expansion options, as well as reducing the need for unreliable wired connections. [0032] One or more of the controller, controlled electrical device and network diagnostics may be carried out remotely without the necessity for site visits. This is particularly useful for commercial or industrial applications which can be monitored without the need for personnel to attend the site. Fewer personnel are required. One person can monitor multiple sites where the controllers are situated. Monitoring can be conducted via a computer/hand held device and an internet connection. [0033] The controller or a network of multiple controllers can be configured for operation from a remote location. Thus, programming, updating or variation of operating instructions can be provided remotely via a wireless connection to the controller(s), particularly via an internet connection and a wireless modem within the respective controller(s). [0034] Each controller may be solar powered and/or may have a long life replaceable or rechargeable battery. Solar power may be used to charge the battery. [0035] A further aspect of the present invention provides a system of remotely controlled multiple electrical devices, the system including multiple controllers, each said controller arranged and configured to control a respective said electrical device, each said controller including a receiver to wirelessly receive control signals from a remote transmitter.

8 [0036] Preferably at least one of the said controllers is designated a master controller arranged and configured to receive control signals from a remote controller. Preferably multiple ones of said controllers are master controllers. A master controller may directly control at least one said electrical device and/or one or more slave controllers. [0037] The system may include at least one slave controller. A slave controller receives wirelessly control signals from at least one said master controller. Each slave controller controls a said electrical device. [0038] Thus, a network of wirelessly operated controllers and controlled electrical devices can be provided. Control signals can be provided via a wireless internet connection to the master controller(s). [0039] Information or data can be transmitted back to the remote controller via the wireless internet connection. Furthermore, a master controller can relay information or commands to other master controllers and/or slave controllers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0040] An embodiment of the present invention will hereinafter be described with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: [0041] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a controller of the present invention. [0042] Figure 2 shows a representation of a controller connected adjacent a electrically operated reticulation solenoid according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0043] Figure 3 shows a representation of a network of master controllers according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

9 [0044] Figure 4 shows a representation of a network of controllers with master controller and slave controllers according to a further embodiment of the present invention. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT [0045] Figure 1 shows a controller 10 incorporating a microprocessor 12, a wireless modem 14 and a power supply 16 within a housing 17. The power supply powers 18,20 the modem and the microprocessor. It will be appreciated that the power supply may be an on board battery as shown, or may be an external power supply, such as a solar cell (mounted on or nearby to the controller) or may be a combination of both, with the solar cell recharging the battery. Alternative power supplies are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention, such as a low voltage (1 2V) power supply. [0046] The modem receives command signals or data 22 wirelessly from a remote control device 19, such as a laptop or tablet or mobile handheld device, connected to the internet. The modem is also connected top the internet. A secure password protected protocol ensures that the controller is only remotely accessed and operated by an authorised user. [0047] The controller outputs a control signal 24a, preferably via a hardwire 24, to the electric/electronic device 28 to be controlled. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the electric device being controlled is a solenoid valve of a water reticulation system. [0048] Referring to Figure 2, the laptop 19 shown sends instructions or data in a secure way via the internet to the controller 10. Multiple controllers can receive the same command signals or instructions. Such controllers are deemed master controllers.

10 [0049] The microprocessor in the controller determines the action to take based on the received signals. Such actions may include updates to software controlling the microprocessor. [0050] Control software and operational data (such as a log of operations) may be saved in a memory 26 (such as a flash drive or memory card (SD/CF card etc.)). The microprocessor may include or be connected to a connector for the memory device. [0051] The controller outputs a control signal to the solenoid valve 28 below the ground surface 29. It will be appreciated that the solenoid valve can be below the ground surface, at or above the ground surface. The solenoid valve operates (opens or closes as commanded) to spray pressurised water flow 30 from the sprinkler 32. [0052] It will be appreciated that whilst a solenoid valve is described in relation to this embodiment, the electric/electronic device controlled could be any form of electrically/electronically operated device, such as a chemical dosing device, a monitoring device, a heater, a fan etc. [0053] As shown in Figure 3, multiple controllers 10 may be controlled by a single remote controller. The controllers may communicate with each other, such as to relay signals between each other or to receive updates of operational status or actuation timing signals from one to the other. [0054] Figure 4 shows an alternative embodiment whereby a master controller 10 commands control of slave controllers 36. Thus, the slave controllers answer to the instructions/data signals 34 given from the master controller 10. This is very useful where the slave controllers do not need to have the full programmed capability or functions of a master controller, and can therefore be cheaper to manufacture, supply, install, maintain and operate.

11 [0055] As in Figure 2, the controllers 10, 36 in Figures 3 and 4 control operation of water reticulation solenoids 28 to operate sprinklers 32. However, as previously described, the actual electrical/electronic device being controlled by the controller could be any electrically/electronically operated device. [0056] It will be appreciated that it is not necessary to hard wire the controller(s) back to a central control unit. Control from the remote controller is wireless over the internet or LAN. Updates to the software in each controller can be carried out remotely, and a controller can be re-purposed once the software is updated or replaced. For example, the same generic controller may be originally programmed to operated a solenoid valve (on and off timings, calendar with days and times of operation etc.), and if no longer needed for that purpose, may be reprogrammed to control operation of a chemical dosing device. Thus, the software can be replaced or modified remotely or by replacing the memory card containing programming instructions. [0057] Furthermore, slave controllers can be updated by reprogramming to become master controllers, and vice versa, as needed. [0058] The present invention provides a scalable, flexible system whereby one form of controller can be purposed and repurposed as needed, simply by reprogramming, which can be conducted by secure access over the internet. [0059] For example, a controller may be repurposed to monitor and/or dose swimming pool chemicals, which may be done in real time. An operator can instruct, e.g. via their computer with internet access, the controller to take readings of water and/or ambient temperature, chemical levels, operation/status of a chlorinator and pool pump etc. When measured values are outside of expected or required parameters, the controller can notify the operator to take action (such as instructing the operator to command action via the controller to operate the electrical device(s) or allow the operator to manually take action. The 12 controller may simply report conditions or may, if programmed, take remedial action automatically or on command from an operator. [0060] The system can be used to fully automate home and/or garden operations, agricultural, horticultural or other business systems requiring a controlled switch, relay or sensor.

Claims (16)

1. A remotely operated electrical device controller, the controller including a wireless receiver to receive signals from a wireless remote transmitter, a microprocessor arranged and configured to receive command signals and to output control signals to the electrical device.

2. The controller according to claim 1, including a transmitter arranged and configured to transmit signals back to the remote controller and/or to one or more other said controllers.

3. The controller according to claim 1 or 2, the controller acting as a master controller to at least one slave controller, whereby, in use, one or more said command signals is/are be relayed from the master controller to the at least one slave controller.

4. The controller according to any one of the preceding claims, the controller including a programmable memory device.

5. The controller according to any one of the preceding claims, including or electrically or wirelessly connected at least one external sensor.

6. The controller according to claim 5, the at least one external sensor including one or more of a temperature, moisture/rain, humidity, wind speed or light level, sensor.

7. The controller according to any one of the preceding claims, including an alert indication means providing a capability to initiate an alert signal to a user. 14

8. The controller according to claim 7, including the alert indication means to indicate need servicing or repair of the controller and/or servicing or repair is required for the electrical device(s) it controls.

9. The controller according to any one of the preceding claims, memory within the controller provided on a removable memory card or flash drive.

10. The controller according to any one of the preceding claims, the controller including or connected to a solar cell or long life replaceable or rechargeable battery, or both a solar cell and long life replaceable or rechargeable battery.

11. The controller according to any one of the preceding claims, the controller being a reticulation solenoid valve or swimming pool water chemical monitoring or dosing device controller.

12. A system of remotely controlled multiple electrical devices, the system including multiple controllers, each said controller arranged and configured to control a respective said electrical device, each said controller including a receiver to wirelessly receive control signals from a remote transmitter.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the said controllers is designated a master controller arranged and configured to receive control signals from a remote controller.

14. The system according to claim 12, wherein multiple ones of said controllers are master controllers.

15. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, including at least one slave controller. 15

16. The system according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein control signals are provided via a wireless internet connection to the master controller(s). DEAN LAST WATERMARK PATENT AND TRADE MARKS ATTORNEYS UIP1463AU00