CN101287316B

CN101287316B - System bridge and timeclock for RF controlled lighting systems

Info

Publication number: CN101287316B
Application number: CN 200810087264
Authority: CN
Inventors: 小罗伯特·弗朗西斯·瓦尔科; 乔恩·迈克尔·基吉; 贾森·道格拉斯·克雷泽; 格伦·安德鲁·克鲁泽
Original assignee: Lutron Electronics Co Inc
Current assignee: Lutron Electronics Co Inc
Priority date: 2003-06-10
Filing date: 2004-06-09
Publication date: 2013-01-16
Anticipated expiration: 2024-06-09
Also published as: CN101287316A; CN1823314A; CN100517145C

Abstract

A method for operatively interconnecting a first and second lighting control subnet is disclosed. In the method, a link claim is transmitted to the first and second lighting control subnets from a bridge. The link claim directs the first and second lighting control subnets to wait for a lighting control command, which is transmitted to the lighting control command to the first lighting control subnet. A random wait time is assigned to the first lighting control subnet and a maximum random wait time is assigned to the second lighting control subnet. Finally, an acknowledgement is received fromthe first lighting control subnet.

Description

Be used for RF controlled illumination system of systems bridge and clock

Related application

The application requires to submit on October 8th, 2003, name is called the U. S. application No.10/681 of " System Bridge and Timeclock For RF Controlled Lighting Systems ", 062 rights and interests, the latter requires to submit on June 10th, 2003, name is called the U. S. application No.60/477 of " System Bridging and Timeclock For RF Controlled Lighting Systems ", 505 rights and interests, their full content is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to Lighting Control Assembly.Particularly, the present invention relates to the Lighting Control Assembly that interconnects, wherein these Lighting Control Assemblies are worked with identical radio frequency (RF).More specifically, the present invention relates to equipment and method for this interconnection.

Background technology

Can utilize combination at the predetermined light fixture of the level works such as predetermined light intensity to realize that illumination uses.For example, residential lighting is used may need multiple illumination situation or " scene ".The first scene may be that the resident is when being in and needed when movable in the room.In this scene, shine the light of full strength to be implemented in safety moving in the room in each position.The second scene may be needed when the resident goes out.For example, for safety or other reasons, outdoor optical and room light may shine with different intensity grades.The scene that equally, can dispose other is used for that the resident spends a holiday, amusement or carry out the activity of any other type.Along with the increase of light fixture and/or scene, controlling light fixture rather than control separately each light fixture from middle position will be more easily.

In using, illumination has the multiple system that can realize the light fixture remote control.Wireless lighting control is commonly used in dwelling house and commercial the application because it compare with wired system install easily and cost low.Wired system is because needing the hard wire lighting control equipment to have a lot of shortcomings in illumination is used.For example, existing building being overhauled (retrofit) may relate to electric wire wiring is made it pass wall or other structures, installing cables carriage or pipeline and/or makes electric wire pass existing pipeline to provide wire system.Remain in the planning stage if the building of wire system is installed therein, so if avoid the above-mentioned problem of overhauling, just needing to provide electric wire to include this design of architecture in the works.In any situation, to the plan of wired system with install and all need to pay work, this has increased cost.

On the contrary, the selection that wireless system is normally more economical than hard wire Lighting Control Assembly, because greatly reduced the needs of installing and connect electric wire, this is even more important for existing building.Needn't make a plan for lighting control equipment is installed during design of architecture, maybe must overhaul existing building, the owner of building or operator can be placed on lighting control equipment the place of this equipment of expectation simply.This equipment can be battery powered, or can be connected to simply outlet.In older existed building, the cost savings of wireless system are especially remarkable, otherwise these buildings will need overhauling of complexity and/or trouble.The preferred selection of wireless system or domestic. applications is paid attention to cost more because this application is used than commerce usually.

A kind of method that enforcement has the wireless lighting control system of wireless lighting opertaing device is that these equipment can be communicated with one another by radio frequency (RF) transmission.The Lutron electronics, inc. that an example of this RF system is Coorpersburg PA makes

System.Press

All devices in the agreement, subnet is with identical frequency work, and wherein subnet is single

System.Use single-frequency can avoid disturbing with building other interior equipment, meet the FCC standard, reduce cost etc.Yet the result who does like this is, the equipment in might subnet can be interfering with each other, and this is owing to send simultaneously by identical frequency and to cause.In addition, in existing RF Lighting Control Assembly, for can be restricted at the number of devices that single network is controlled.The equipment of too many quantity can with the FCC norm conflict because these standards only allow the time at characteristic frequency transmission certain-length.Present system, for example

Allow at most 32 equipment of control.

In some applications, must use and exceed lighting control equipment that single subnet can be controlled, more.Therefore, may need the second subnet to control the equipment of all expectations.Should be realized that, two wireless lighting control systems are arranged close to each other, when both working with identical frequency, can cause serious problem, especially when light scene relates to two subnets.Particularly, might each subnet communicate by letter simultaneously and therefore owing to cause message collision and unnecessarily produce RF and the phase mutual interference.Although owing to use the relatively short RF transmission time in single subnet, the probability that disturbs in a subnet may be less, in the plurality of subnets situation, because the equipment of greater number must receive and transmit the RF transmission, the RF transmission time has increased.

For example, when two incoherent subnet positions were close, each subnet had the risk of disturbing mutually with another.Yet because each subnet is incoherent, the timing of illumination event in each subnet (for example scene) will only can occur at one time because of coincidence.On the contrary, when two or more subnets when function is grouped together, the light scene that relates to more than a subnet can make each subnet that works communicate by letter at one time wittingly.As a result, in the plurality of subnets system, for the point that may disturb, the RF transmission time has increased.

Therefore, need a kind of method, for increasing the number of devices that lighting control networks can be controlled, described lighting control networks uses single RF.Particularly, need a kind of method that links a plurality of subnets, described a plurality of subnets can be as coexisting with the single entity of identical RF work, and carry out each other the mutual of the overall situation in the situation of data collision and communicate by letter not having.More specifically, need a kind of method, start the illumination event able to programme that relates to a plurality of subnets by center-control.

Summary of the invention

In view of the above problems, described a kind of bridging device and method, it provides link between each lighting mains, each called subnet, and described network, subnet are with identical RF work, and be simultaneously close to each other.In an embodiment of the present invention, provide bridge between two or more subnets, it allows each subnet reception and transmission RF signal or message to the equipment in this subnet or other subnets, and message collision is minimized.Therefore, an embodiment allows the light scene able to programme that relates to the light fixture of being controlled by a plurality of subnets is controlled.Another embodiment of the present invention relates to the communication means of transmission of information between a plurality of subnets.

In an embodiment of the present invention, provide two or more positions close subnet, wherein each subnet is with identical RF work.An embodiment can communicate with one another each subnet, allows simultaneously to carry out some overlapping controls by master controller between subnet.Correspondingly, one embodiment of the present of invention provide overall performance by programming and the operation of for example imaginary button, and described imaginary button is connected to bridging device in operation.An embodiment has also minimized the possibility that subnet is communicated by letter simultaneously, thereby avoids data collision.

Embodiments of the invention have been expanded the number of devices that uses main control panel to control and to operate.For example, exist

In the system, controllable equipment can be increased to 64 controllable devices from 32.In other embodiments, can control the equipment of varying number.

According to an aspect of the present invention, provide a kind of wireless lighting control system, wherein all on identical radio frequency (RF), this system comprises all wireless transmission: the first lighting control subnet is connected to the first light fixture in operation; The second lighting control subnet is connected to the second light fixture in operation, and wherein the first and second lighting control subnet operate on the identical RF; And bridge, wirelessly and operatively communicate by letter with the first and second lighting control subnet and the first and second lighting control equipments, wherein, it is movable that described bridge sends subnet to this first and second lighting control subnet, so that the first and second lighting control subnet are waited for the subsequently transmission from described bridge.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a kind of method is provided, wherein each subnet is operating on the identical radio frequency (RF), the method comprises: send the subnet activity by bridge to the first and second lighting control subnet that operate on the identical RF, the movable indication of wherein said subnet the first and second lighting control subnet are waited for the subsequently transmission that receives from described bridge.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a kind of bridge is provided, and wherein all on identical radio frequency (RF), this bridge comprises all wireless transmission: transmitter, be used for sending message to the first and second lighting control subnet, wherein said the first and second subnets operate on the predetermined RF; Receiver is used for from being scheduled to this first and second subnets receipt message on the RF; Storer is used for storage information; Input-output apparatus is used for receiving or transmission information; And processor, wherein, described processor is connected to described storer, transmitter, receiver and input-output apparatus in operation, and it is movable that wherein said processor makes described transmitter send subnet to the first and second subnets, waits for illumination command to indicate this first and second lighting control subnet.

Description of drawings

By reference to the accompanying drawings, will be better appreciated by the detailed description of summary of the invention and the preferred embodiment of front.For purpose of the present invention being described, exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown in the drawings; Yet, the invention is not restricted to disclosed ad hoc approach and means.In the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1 is the block diagram that exemplary RF Lighting Control Assembly is shown;

Fig. 2 A is the block diagram of exemplary bridged equipment according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2 B is by the block diagram at the exemplary RF Lighting Control Assembly of operation interconnection of bridging device according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 3 is the process flow diagram that illustrates according to the method for two RF Lighting Control Assemblies of embodiments of the invention bridge joint;

Fig. 4 is the exemplary sequential chart of bridge system according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 is according to the exemplary sequential chart of one embodiment of the invention for the communication protocol that overcomes the cross-talk situation;

Fig. 6 A-C is the exemplary sequential chart of carrying out the communication protocol of serial command according to one embodiment of the invention in single subnet;

Fig. 7 A-C strides two subnets according to one embodiment of the invention to carry out the in succession exemplary sequential chart of the communication protocol of each order.

Embodiment

Embodiments of the invention relate at two or more RF Lighting Control Assemblies of operation interconnection, and described system is with identical RF work close to each other.In such embodiments, send the ability of the RF signal that can be received by at least one equipment in the 2nd RF Lighting Control Assembly near at least one equipment in the RF Lighting Control Assembly that refers to.Should be realized that the RF signal that is used by this Lighting Control Assembly can be any frequency that is suitable for desired location and the use of this Lighting Control Assembly.For example, can select this frequency to meet the FCC standard, avoid with this Lighting Control Assembly institute operation area in other device conflicts, or according to other considerations.

As mentioned above, one embodiment of the present of invention relate to the Lighting Control Assembly that can adopt among building waits.The example of this Lighting Control Assembly is in U.S. Patent No. 5,982, describes in 103,5,905442,5,848,054,5,838,226 and 5,736,965; All these has transferred Lutron electronics, inc., and its full content is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.Can also be with reference to the net of Lutron electronics, inc. Http:// www.lutron.com, comprise in this website more about

The enforcement of system and the information of use.According to the reference of institute's combination, those skilled in the art should be familiar with implementing the method for RF Lighting Control Assembly, therefore, for the sake of simplicity, in the detailed discussion of this omission to these themes.

One embodiment of the present of invention comprise bridging device and the communication means that is adopted by this bridging device, and described bridging device for example is to link independently system bridge or system bridge and the clock (SBT) of the network of RF control.In one embodiment, this equipment and method can be used for for example two subnets of RF illuminator of bridge joint.In such embodiments, the control of all in subnet function all is to finish by the RF signal between master control equipment, lighting control equipment and/or (if necessary) repeater.Master control equipment provides a plurality of control knobs and positioning indicator, and described control knob is designated be used to controlling various light fixture, the state of described positioning indicator reflection Lighting Control Assembly.When needed, repeater is used for guaranteeing that all devices can be received as the purpose of opertaing device and pass through the communication that the RF signal transmits.Be combined with Among the embodiment of system, lighting control equipment communicates with one another by RF (for example 390,418 or 434MHz).

Forward now Fig. 1 to, provide exemplary RF Lighting Control Assembly to be shown (for example

System etc.) block diagram.System 100 comprises master controller 11, is used for making the user can be to system's 100 input commands, and observes the illumination condition information that can show at indicator 16, and indicator 16 can comprise such as LED, lcd screen etc.In addition, system 100 comprises lighting control equipment 12, for example light modulator.Repeater 13 hints as its name, receives signals from master controller 11 and/or lighting control equipment 12, and transmits this signal and increase large-scale RF transmission to provide.Should be realized that repeater 13 is optional, because in some applications, master controller 11 and/or lighting control equipment 12 is set, so that both energy direct communications, and do not need repeater 13.Master controller 11, lighting control equipment 12 and optional repeater 13 are connected to each other in operation by wireless communication link 15.As mentioned above, all devices of system 100 is worked with identical RF on each communication link 15.

User selection starts specific light scene, begins this scene by operation master controller 11.Then signal is passed to suitable lighting control equipment 12, to carry out the required function of this scene.Should be realized that this signal can be transmitted by repeater 13, receive this signal to guarantee lighting control equipment 12.It should further be appreciated that this signal can comprise various message segments.For example, outside the order that is used for the execution specific function, this signal can comprise the identifier of corresponding master controller 11 and/or lighting control equipment 12 etc.Additional formatted message can be provided, for example be used for the address, room of unique identification system 100.Format or the configuration of any type of this signal also are consistent with embodiments of the invention.

In case the illuminated opertaing device 12 of this signal receives, then, this equipment control lamp 14 when needing, lighting control equipment 12 sends back master controller 11 with signal.Master controller 11 is indicated affirmation by illuminating indicator 16 lamps, and the affirmation task is successfully completed.Indicator 16 can show the information of any type, for example the strength grade of lamp 14, open/close state and/or similar information.

Should be appreciated that if the user wishes only to affect a lamp 14 by the light intensity that for example changes lamp 14, the user can direct control lighting control equipment 12.In such embodiments, lighting control equipment 12 can to master controller 11 transmitted signals, be notified this master controller 11 with the intensity that changes.In such embodiments, will upgrade by indicator 16 state of change.As an alternative, lighting control equipment 12 can be waited for, until master controller 11 has transmitted signal, thereby only upgrades the state of lighting control equipment 12 when master controller 11 polls (poll).Should be appreciated that the RF Lighting Control Assembly of Fig. 1 only is exemplary, the equipment of any quantity or configuration all is consistent with embodiments of the invention.

Should be realized that in the system of Fig. 1, " subnet " comprises at least one master controller 11 and at least one lighting control equipment 12.As mentioned above, only when requiring to guarantee that signal between master controller 11 and the lighting control equipment 12 successfully transmits and receives, just need repeater 13 to exist.On the contrary, in an embodiment of the present invention, as will be below discussing in conjunction with Fig. 3 to 7, the subnet by the bridge link only needs to comprise individual equipment.As what will can find out from below, comprise the function of master controller 11 according to the bridge of the embodiment of the invention.Therefore, subnet in one embodiment only needs to comprise single primary controller 11 or single lighting control equipment 12, although the equipment of greater number is consistent with embodiments of the invention equally.

Bridging method

As mentioned above, in the application with the relevant subnet of function close more than, because sending the chance that runs into interference simultaneously, an above equipment (for example master controller 11) increases.Therefore, in an embodiment of the present invention, provide bridging device.Forward now Fig. 2 A to, show the according to an embodiment of the invention block diagram of exemplary bridged equipment.Bridge 200 comprises transmitter 205 and receiver 210, and they are suitable for by the employed RF work of each subnet (for clear, not illustrating among Fig. 2 A).What be connected to transmitter 205 and receiver 210 is processor 215 in operation, and it can be universal or special computing equipment, is suitable for controlling the function of bridge 200.Should be appreciated that processor 215 can comprise single processor, perhaps it can comprise the processor of a plurality of parallel runnings.For example, in one embodiment of the invention, processor 215 comprises the first processor for control RF sending and receiving and some I/O (I/O), and is used for the second processor of control I/O, display and storer.

What be connected to processor 215 is storer 240, I/O 225 and display 250 in operation.Storer 240 can be the data storage device of any type, such as RAM, flash memory, ROM etc.I/O 225 can be for to bridge 200 input data or instruction or be used for the combination in any of the equipment of display status information, instruction etc.In addition, I/O 225 can comprise that data connect, and connects etc. such as RS-232, is used for connecting external data source.For example, in one embodiment, bridge 200 receives time sequence information by I/O 225 from external unit.Storer 240 can comprise the information that can be combined with this time sequence information.For example, storer 240 can comprise sunrise and the sunset information in one or more geographic position, is then processed in the situation of the time sequence information that receives by processor 215, so that bridge 200 can be in sunrise and the at sunset predetermined behavior of execution.In another embodiment, this time sequence information can be bridge 200 inner generations.

Should be realized that the user can be mutual with bridge 200 by I/O 225 and display 250.In one embodiment, display 250 is LCD display, the prompting that it drives to user's display menu, and this user can be by I/O 225 and this menu mutual.Should be realized that, can use the display of any type, keep simultaneously being consistent with embodiments of the invention.In addition, I/O 225 can comprise such as rocker switch, keyboard port, one or more buttons etc., and the user can handle, so that input message and response are selected in the prompting that display 250 shows.It should further be appreciated that bridge 200 has shell (for clear, not illustrating) in Fig. 2 A, form this shell so that bridge 200 can be placed on various positions.For example, bridge 200 can be placed invisible zone, for example in the storeroom, can strengthen perhaps that it is ornamental, in order to be placed on the visibility region of room or building.

The bridge 200 a plurality of independently RF networks of link or the subnets of an embodiment, they move in identical frequency, shown in Fig. 2 B.For example, Fig. 2 B is according to an embodiment of the invention two exemplary RF

lighting control subnet

220 and 230 block diagram, they in operation by bridge 200 interconnection.Have master controller 11, lighting control equipment 12, repeater 13 and light fixture 14 although

subnet

220 and 230 is shown, should be realized that, as mentioned above, only need comprise individual equipment according to the

subnet

220 and 230 of the embodiment of the invention.

As what can find out among Fig. 2 B, subnet 220 is connected to subnet 230 via wireless connections A and B in operation by bridge 200.As what discuss below in conjunction with Fig. 3 to 7, use this bridge 200 to provide this ability as subnet 220 and 230: can when bridge 200 sends, not produce message collision at the RF that shares near operation.In other words, when bridge 200 sent, it had eliminated the RF conflict between

subnet

220 and 230 by keeping another subnet of not communicating by

letter

220 or 230 static with

subnet

220 or 230 communication period.In addition, bridge 200 also provides the means that communicate with one another for

subnet

220 and 230, and can not make a subnet interrupt the communication of another subnet.Bridge 200 also allows

subnet

220 and 230 systems as independent operating to operate, and the global operation between

separate subnet

220 and 230 also is provided simultaneously.

In one embodiment, relate to and realizing by bridge 200 " imagination " button at the light scene of the relevant subnet 220 of function and 230.The imagination button is the virtual push button that is programmed to have specific function.This imaginary button can pass through such as I/O 225 programmings such as grade.In single or

multiple subnets

220 and 230, the specific imaginary button of can programming, to create the illumination scheme of customization, this scheme relates to such as top in conjunction with described lamp 14 light fixture such as grade of Fig. 1.In such embodiment, global operation comprises standard-sized sheet (ALL ON, all light fixture are opened), complete shut-down (ALL OFF, all light fixture cut out) and other can relate to the setting able to programme from any quantity light fixture of any quantity subnet.Recited above a use

Among the embodiment of system, outside standard-sized sheet and complete shut-down, provide 15 kinds of settings able to programme.Although some embodiment (for example below in conjunction with the described embodiment of Fig. 4 to 7) use two subnets, should be realized that, use any amount of subnet all to be consistent with embodiments of the invention equally.Therefore, the imaginary button of bridge 200 can affect the equipment that two systems plant, and can be used in from master controller 11 or by another equipment (for example RS-232 equipment)

control subnet

220 and 230.

Single

In the subnet, the user starts light scene by for example pressing the button that represents light scene at master controller 11.As response, master controller 11 sends the RF signal according to the predetermined set to this light scene to one or more lighting control equipments 12.On the contrary, in one embodiment of the invention, master controller 11 sends the identifier of the selected light scene of expression.Bridge 200 the signal that receives and imaginary button relatively, the light scene of described imaginary button corresponding stored in storer 240 for example.Then, bridge 200 sends to one or more lighting control equipments 12 in one or more subnets 220 and/or 230 with suitable RF signal.Therefore, the master controller 11 in a subnet can be controlled at the lighting control equipment 12 in all-

ones subnet

220 and 230.

In another embodiment, bridge 200 can use together with master controller 11, described master controller 11 with existing single subnet

The consistent mode of system is moved.For example, in certain embodiments, bridge 200 can add in the subnet 220 and/or 230 that is pre-existing in, and in conjunction with one or more equipment, comprises additional subnet.Should be realized that, when for example existing subnet has reached its capacity and needed one or more additional subnet, this situation can occur.As a result, one or more master controllers 11 only can not be configured to response button and press down the transmission scene identifiers.In such embodiments, as what discuss below in conjunction with Fig. 3 to 8, the master controller 11 to be sent such as bridge 200 finishes to send, and then the imaginary button that sign is corresponding sends suitable RF signal to suitable lighting control equipment 12.In such embodiments, although order can be sent to some lighting control equipments 12 by twice, once by master controller 11, once by bridge 200, but should be realized that bridge 200 is all same compatible with this master controller 11RF host-host protocol of two types.

In an embodiment of the present invention, use

The RF host-host protocol.In this agreement, equipment is attempted avoiding the RF conflict by stand-by period and propagation delay time (backoff).Stand-by period is the time quantum that the equipment of reception RF signal should be waited for before transmitted signal after this signal ended.Stand-by period is that transmitting apparatus is to the receiving equipment appointment.Propagation delay time also is the time quantum that the equipment of reception RF signal should be waited for before transmitted signal after this signal ended.But the difference of propagation delay time and stand-by period is propagation delay time by receiving equipment hypothesis, rather than to the receiving equipment appointment.Receive the equipment of RF signal when detecting signal, oneself specify a propagation delay time of after this signal ended, waiting for for it, disturb with any other RF signal in order to avoid.In case propagation delay time is at the expiration, and if do not have other RF signal to receive, then if necessary, this equipment can freely send.In one embodiment, the length of propagation delay time determines at random, thus etc. equipment to be sent unlikely when propagation delay time expires, send simultaneously the RF signal.

Forward now Fig. 3 to, the process flow diagram that illustrates according to the illustrative methods of two RF lighting control subnet 220 of bridge joint of the embodiment of the invention and 230 is provided.In step 301, bridge 200 detects event.This event can be the RF transmission from the master controller 11 in the subnet (for example subnet 220 among Fig. 2 recited above) or lighting control equipment 12.In addition, event can be to press action etc. at bridge 200 from button with it by I/O 225.As cognoscible, if this event is RF transmission, so this transmission can comprise the light scene identifier, to the order of lighting control equipment and/or etc.In one embodiment, bridge 200 also can be set at random propagation delay time, thereby avoids disturbing with the RF transmission before proceeding to step 303-309.

In step 303, bridge 200 sends subnet movable (subnet action) with " reservation " this work RF to subnet 220 and 230.As discussing in conjunction with Fig. 4 to 8 below, the subnet activity normally requires to start with link.Link requires will to give an order to subnet 220 and 230 notices, in case and each

subnet

220 and 230 receive this link requirement, each equipment in each

subnet

220 and 230 stops to send and waits for transmission from bridge 200.As mentioned above, each equipment is supposed a propagation delay time when receiving the RF signal that comprises the link requirement.In one embodiment, this propagation delay time is the random value in preset range.Except link required, the subnet activity can comprise the one or more orders to one or more equipment.Therefore, the subnet activity can realize all or part of of light scene.As cognoscible, the subnet activity can also comprise family's identifier, device identifier etc.It should further be appreciated that in certain embodiments, the subnet activity repeats this subnet activity once or more times, receive with the safety of guaranteeing order.Also discuss as top, in one embodiment, bridge 200 sends random wait time to the equipment in targeted

subnet

220 and 230.

In step 305, receive the affirmation from equipment such as master controller 11 and/or lighting control equipment 12.As cognoscible, in certain embodiments, if should confirm not to send as the part of the communication plan of embodiment, frame 305 can be optional.In step 307, determine for another subnet activity whether bridge 200 will be carried out on any subnet 220,230.If so, then the method is returned step 303, and is movable to send another subnet.After finishing all necessary subnet activities, in step 309, bridge 200 is waited at the device transmission time lapse.After this time, other equipment can freely send the RF signal as required.

Forward now Fig. 4 to, the according to an embodiment of the invention exemplary sequential chart of bridge system is provided.In system 400, frame 405 expression User Activities, frame 410 is illustrated in master controller 12 activities in the subnet 220, and

frame

415 and 420 represents respectively the activity of the bridge 200 in subnet 220 and 230.Frame 425-460 illustrates according to an embodiment of the invention example activity sequence.Should be realized that the embodiment of Fig. 4 provides the example of overall button, one of them or more equipment, such as lighting control equipment 12, lamp 14 etc., influenced in two or more subnets 220 and 230.The example of this overall button is for example top in conjunction with the described standard-sized sheet of Fig. 2 A-B and complete shut-down button.

At frame 425, the user presses the button, and as response, master controller 12 transmits signal at frame 430, indicates this button to be pressed.At frame 435, bridge 200 sends overall button signal in subnet 220.Apparent, frame 435 is equivalent to the frame 706-708,714,720 and 726 among Fig. 7 A, and the frame 725-756 among Fig. 7 B, and these will be discussed below.As cognoscible, processor 215 grades of bridge 200 can be searched the imaginary button of corresponding light scene in storer 240 grades when receiving the signal of frame 430.In other words, the scene of any pre-programmed of the imaginary button of the overall button on the master controller 12 in the subnet 220 in can corresponding bridge 200.Bridge 200 determine button that users press be subnet 200 this locality or for affecting the button of two

subnets

220 and 230, in the situation of this locality, carry out subsequently as following in conjunction with the described processing of Fig. 6 A-C, in the situation that affects two

subnets

220 and 230, carry out subsequently as following in conjunction with the described processing of Fig. 7 A-C.

In the embodiment of Fig. 4, as mentioned above, at frame 435, in subnet 220, send overall button by bridge 200.Discuss as following, in one embodiment, frame 435 and frame 460 comprise that link requires, orders and be used for therein the time period of confirmation of receipt.At frame 460, in subnet 230, send overall button by bridge 200.In addition, should be realized that frame 460 is equivalent to the frame 710,712,716,718,722,724 and 728 among Fig. 7 A, and the frame 758-794 among Fig. 7 C, these will be discussed below.At frame 445,

subnet

220 and 230 is waited for link unimpeded (clear).Frame 445 for example can comprise to be waited for during propagation delay time in conjunction with the step 309 of Fig. 3 is described in the above.At frame 450, the display 250 of bridge 200, indicator 16 by illuminating master controller 12 such as LED etc.As cognoscible, the processing (as represented by frame 450) of illuminating LED etc. can also comprise the signal transmission of carrying out according to the method for Fig. 3.

At frame 455, start other LED or display device, for example display 250 and/or indicator 16.Therefore, should be realized that embodiments of the invention allow as at first execution such as the illumination control commands of an overall button part, and delayed acknowledgement LED etc. are until the end of these orders.In this way, utilize positioning indicator that the user not too the notes slight delay in upgrading to be cost, reduced the response time of lamp 14 grades that the user pays close attention to the most.

Cross-talk

Method among top Fig. 3 can be better understood in the embodiment of the method.Although following Fig. 5 to 7 only shows two

subnets

220 and 230, can recognize that any amount of subnet 220-230 can be in operation by bridge 200 interconnection.May increase although control the required time of a large amount of subnets, should be realized that, sequential chart only is the purpose for example, and actual sequential chart can have more or less frame and/or functional block, carries out them and realizes desirable order.Therefore, embodiments of the invention provide communications framework, can implement Lighting Control Assembly on this framework.

Forward now Fig. 5 to, show according to the exemplary sequential chart of one embodiment of the invention for the communication protocol that overcomes the cross-talk situation.If from following Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 to 7, find out, the time advances along the direction of time shaft.As cognoscible, Fig. 5 to 7 does not accurately draw in proportion, because any time, communication protocol or frequency all may affect the definite spacing of these frames.

Only there is the cross-talk situation in each equipment in the situation of communication mutually in a subnet, but another contiguous subnet with same frequency work can cause disturbing or " cross-talk ".Therefore Fig. 5 shows the basic communication event that is included in device start wherein by 220 pairs of subnets, also has simultaneously the second subnet 230.This sequential chart shows the communication of avoiding cross-talk according to bridge 200.Shown in Figure 53 each bit stream, wherein each has been indicated in the communication period subnet 220 that relates to bridge 200 and 230 sequential.

In an embodiment of the present invention, integrating step 307 and the 313 random wait times of discussing specify by starting subnet 220 above.Therefore, in the cross-talk example of Fig. 5, subnet 220 comprises equipment with which, specifies the stand-by period at random for it oneself, simultaneously subnet 230 is specified the maximum random wait time.Equally, each equipment in each

subnet

220 and 230 is supposed an at random propagation delay time when receiving the RF signal.Therefore, " worst case " among Fig. 5 is the propagation delay time of hypothesis maximum possible, and " best-case " is the possible propagation delay time of hypothesis minimum.Therefore, as cognoscible, the sequential of " worst case " of subnet 220 as shown by frame 502-518, occurs when the random wait time is the maximum possible value.Should be realized that, below Fig. 6 B, the 6C, 7B and the 7C that discuss show the sequential of this worst case.

In one embodiment of the invention, four possible random wait and five propagation delay time values are arranged, they can distinguish designated or hypothesis.As cognoscible, any amount of stand-by period and/or propagation delay time value all are consistent with embodiments of the invention equally.In addition, in one embodiment, the value of stand-by period/propagation delay time is that link requires necessary a plurality of time quantum.Link requires (link claim) to measure any time for example five or 14 half circulations.According to an embodiment, when subnet 230 is specified maximum latency, only need a sequential chart, as by shown in the frame 520-534.If from Fig. 5 and below Fig. 6 to 7 find out that solid box represents actual RF transmission, empty wire frame representation RF sequential.

When bridge 200 sent, bridge 200 hypothesis propagation delay times were zero, therefore allow bridge 200 can send immediately once finishing in order.As cognoscible, this configuration makes bridge 200 can keep control to

subnet

220 and 230, because bridge 200 can at first send after command execution all the time.In case propagation delay time at the expiration, if there is the second order to carry out, then can to the

subnet

220 and 230 link requirement that retransfers, keep freely to guarantee RF.Then, this order is retransmitted to request subnet 220 and correspondingly carries out.Therefore, although two

subnets

220 and 230 have all received the message that order arrives, only have that request subnet 220 is actual to receive and carry out this order.

Therefore, when receiving order from subnet 220, bridge 220 all transmits the link requirement to two

subnets

220 and 230, so that " reservation " this work RF.As cognoscible, and as mentioned above, the order that receives from subnet 220 can comprise scene identifiers.As an alternative, this order can comprise the order to equipment in the subnet 220 (for example lighting control equipment 12), in order to realize desirable light scene.The initial link of subnet 220 is required by frame 502 and 502 ' expression, the link of subnet 230 is required by frame 520 expressions.Frame 504 and the state of 504 ' expression subnet 220 when requiring wait command according to link.Keep these RF by subnet 220, its communication capacity of subnet 230 temporary suspensions is so that bridge 200 can be communicated by letter not having in the noisy situation with subnet 220.

The order that frame 506 and 506 ' expression are transmitted by subnet 220, simultaneously at frame 522, subnet 230 continues to wait for.For example, the link that frame 522 expression subnets 230 bases have received at frame 520 requires in wait command, but as cognoscible, this order does not arrive.As a result, it is static that subnet 230 keeps, this so that bridge 200 can in the situation that does not have message collision to threaten, communicate by letter with the equipment in the subnet 220.At frame 508 and 508 ', specify to subnet 220 the random wait time of worst case and best-case respectively, and specify maximum latency at frame 524 to subnet 230.As what discuss below in conjunction with Fig. 6 and 7, in the present example, are any time amounts less than the maximum possible random wait time for the random wait of the worst case of subnet 220.

In the example communication event of Fig. 5, order is retransmitted automatically, is correctly received by all devices to guarantee it, thereby at frame 510,510 ' and 526, transmits the second link requirement to

subnet

220 and 230 respectively.At frame 512 and 512 ', order is retransmitted to subnet 220, simultaneously at frame 528, and subnet 230 wait command.Then should order be confirmed by all devices in the subnet 220, as represented by

frame

514 and 514 '.Any method that transmission, reception and collecting device are confirmed all is consistent with embodiments of the invention equally.

As cognoscible, the affirmation correspondence of the worst case of frame 514 for example has the subnet of large number quipments.Described in the above

In the situation of system, along with near 32 equipment of maximum quantity, the affirmation time that can more be grown.Simultaneously, at frame 530, subnet 230 continues to wait for.At frame 516 and 516 ', the exchange bitmap is to guarantee that for example the display 16 of the master controller 11 of subnet 220 upgrades.At frame 532, subnet 230 continues to wait for.Finish part in command sequence, subnet 220 is in frame 518 ' (expression minimum transfer time delay) and duration of waiting for the propagation delay time of its hypothesis at frame 518 (expression maximum transmitted time delay).Equally, at frame 534, subnet 230 is waited for the duration of its propagation delay time.

As cognoscible, and as mentioned above, the function of one embodiment of the invention is during subnet 220 receives and carries out its order, forbids that subnet 230 is with this RF communication.According to this embodiment, subnet 230 must be waited for, until its propagation delay time at the expiration, and this RF is that open and available before it can attempt communicating by letter.

In succession order to same subnet

In certain embodiments, and as mentioned above, bridge 200 can also be zero to keep the control to the RF in a plurality of subnets by the duration of hypothesis propagation delay time.This allows bridge 200 to identical subnet or different subnet transmission orders in succession.For example, when pressing two overall buttons, repeat to transmit the processing of an order in order to pass the second order.As the situation among Fig. 5, bridge 200 stops unsolicited subnet (for example subnet 230) to send, and simultaneously these two orders is sent in succession request subnet 220.

Forward now Fig. 6 A to, show according to one embodiment of the invention for realize the in succession exemplary sequential chart of the communication protocol of order at single subnet.Fig. 6 A shows serial command is sent to processing in the same subnet, and for the purpose of example, this subnet is subnet 220.Frame 602-612 represents the RF transmission of subnet 220, the RF sequential of

frame

614 and 616 expression subnets 220, the RF transmission of frame 618 and 620 expression subnets 230, the RF sequential of

frame

622 and 624 expression subnets 230.

At frame 602, press main button at for example master controller 11 or bridge 200.At frame 604, at random propagation delay time occurs, until the link requirement is sent to subnet 220 at frame 606, and is sent to subnet 230 at frame 618, subnet 220 is in frame 614 wait command simultaneously.At frame 608, send to be used for the first order of realization example overall situation button, limit simultaneously maximum latency less than as an example 4 units, as what discuss more in detail in conjunction with Fig. 6 B below.Should be appreciated that frame 608 is equivalent in the above in conjunction with the described frame 506-516 of Fig. 5 in function.Simultaneously, subnet 230 is waited at frame 622.Because will send the second order, send the link requirements at

frame

610 and 620, frame 620 appears when subnet 220 during in frame 616 wait command wherein.At frame 612, send to be used for the second order of realization example overall situation button 2, as in conjunction with Fig. 6 C more detailed discussion.Simultaneously, subnet 230 is waited at frame 624.

According to processing similar mode with top in conjunction with the described individual command of Fig. 5, after the signal that receives from subnet 220, transmit the link requirement by bridge 200 to two

subnets

220 and 230, be used for request subnet 220 to keep RF.When finishing the first order, unsolicited subnet 230 is specified the largest random stand-by period, simultaneously request subnet 220 is specified the random wait time.Because request subnet (subnet 220) has the less stand-by period, can transmit another link requirement to subnet 230, in order to can process the button press action of any queuing.The appointment of this largest random stand-by period to subnet 230 is to provide the means of keeping the ability that the control of RF and continuation are communicated by letter with subnet 220 for bridge 200.Then, the corresponding execution of finishing order.In case carry out and finished final order by bridge 200, then suppose at random propagation delay time by the equipment in

subnet

220 and 230.

Therefore, forward Fig. 6 B to, show the details of overall button 1, Fig. 6 A center 606,608,614,618 and 622.As what can find out from Fig. 6 B, the RF transmission by frame 625-640 shows subnet 220 is shown the RF transmission of subnet 230 by frame 642-656.The first and second link requirements occurred at frame 625,626 and 642, comprised that subnet 220 wait command send simultaneously the time that the second link requires in subnet 230.At frame 628, this order is transmitted to subnet 220, and subnet 230 is in frame 644 wait command simultaneously.Then, specify the random wait time at 630 pairs of subnets of frame 220, in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 6 B, this time is certain time quantum less than the largest random stand-by period, as shown in Fig. 6 B being " max-1 ", to indicate less than a peaked stand-by period.Should be realized that, all be consistent with embodiments of the invention equally less than any time of maximum latency amount.

At frame 646, subnet 230 is specified maximum latency.Then, as discussing in conjunction with Fig. 4, at frame 632-636, send another link requirement in the above, repeat this order, collect from subnet 220 and confirm, simultaneously at frame 648-652, subnet 230 is waited for.Collect bitmap at frame 638, simultaneously at frame 654, subnet 230 is waited for.At last, in frame 640 and 656,

subnet

220 and 230 is waited for respectively the duration of the propagation delay time of their hypothesis.

Forward now Fig. 6 C to, as cognoscible, the details of overall button 2, the frame 610,612,616 among the corresponding diagram 6A, 620 and 624 is according to occurring in conjunction with identical mode as described in Fig. 6 B as top.As what can find out from Fig. 6 C, the RF of subnet 200 transmission is illustrated by frame 658-674, and the RF transmission of subnet 230 is illustrated by frame 676-690.The first and second links require to appear at frame 658,660 and 676, and it comprises subnet 220 wait command and send the time that the second link requires in subnet 230.At frame 662, order is sent to subnet 220, simultaneously in frame 678 subnets 230 wait command.Then, specify the random wait time at frame 664 to subnet 220, in Fig. 6 B, this time is the time quantum less than the largest random stand-by period, specifies maximum latency at frame 680 in subnet 230 simultaneously.Then, as discussing in conjunction with Fig. 4, at frame 666-670, send another link requirement in the above, repeat this order, and collect from subnet 220 and to confirm, wait at frame 682-686 subnet 230 simultaneously.As the situation among top Fig. 6 B, collect bitmap at frame 672, subnet 230 is waited at frame 688 simultaneously.At last, in frame 674 and 690, subnet 220 and 230 is waited for respectively the duration of the propagation delay time of their hypothesis.

In succession order in different sub-network

As top in conjunction with the described in succession situation of order that in same subnet, realizes of Fig. 6 A-C, in the embodiment of two subnet systems, bridge 200 will require to respond the button of autonomous controller 11 to press action by transmitting link to subnet 220 and 230, be used for communication to keep this RF.Comparing in conjunction with the shown method of Fig. 7 A-C with top, is to carry out the position of the second order and transmitting the extra link requirement of adding before the second order in the difference between switched sub-networks 220 and 230.As discussing in conjunction with Fig. 7 A-C below, it is to guarantee that RF is unimpeded before transmitting Next Command that this extra link requires.Bridge 200 has the dirigibility that another order is sent to subnet 220 or subnet 230 like the open RF.

Forward now Fig. 7 A to, show and stride two

subnets

220 and 230 according to one embodiment of the invention and realize the in succession exemplary sequential chart of the communication protocol of order.Fig. 7 A shows and will in succession order the processing that is sent to two different sub-networks, and for the example purpose, described subnet is subnet 220 and 230.Frame 702-712 represents the RF transmission of subnet 220, and frame 714-718 represents the RF sequential of subnet 220, and frame 720-724 represents the RF transmission of subnet 230, and frame 726-728 represents the RF sequential of subnet 230.As the situation of the frame 602 among Fig. 6 A recited above, at frame 702, press main button at for example master controller 11 or bridge 200.At frame 704, at random propagation delay time occurs, until the link requirement is sent to subnet 220 at frame 706, and is sent to subnet 230 at frame 720, subnet 220 is in frame 714 wait command simultaneously.

At frame 708, send the first order that is used for realization example overall situation button 1, limit simultaneously the random wait time less than the largest random stand-by period.Simultaneously, wait at frame 726 subnets 230.Because order this moment second will be dealt in the subnet 230, therefore all sends the link requirement at

frame

710 and 722 pairs of two

subnets

220 and 230, wherein, carry out frame 722, the while is in frame 716 subnets 220 wait command.At frame 712, different from the example of Fig. 6 A, the second link requires to be sent to subnet 220, to prevent that maximum wait period at the expiration before frame 724 bridges 200 are accomplished to all orders in the subnet 230.Therefore, at frame 728, subnet 230 wait command.In addition, the second link requires to guarantee to line up in this subnet from any pending RF business of

subnet

220 or 230, to avoid message collision.Therefore, bridge 200 guarantees that it will keep control to each

subnet

220 and 230, sends simultaneously newer command and/or switches between

subnet

220 and 230.

Should be realized that sending the necessity that the second link requires in the subnet 220 is the result who creates the minimum possibility stand-by period after link requires.When bridge 200 during only with a subnetwork communicating, this subnet for example is subnet 220, and as the situation among the situation among top Fig. 6 B-C and the following Fig. 7 B, the wait period of subnet 230 will not allow it to begin to send at the RF link when subnet 220 is movable.Yet, as the situation among following Fig. 7 C, when subnet 220 receives the link requirement, then wait for that subnet 230 receives link requirement and order, then wait for that largest random etc. bides one's time, if personal attendant's machine that subnet 230 is designated waits near largest random is waited for, might can before finishing, subnet 230 begin to send the RF signal by subnet 220 so.Therefore, the second link to subnet 220 requires to guarantee that the RF link keeps unimpeded.Refer again to Fig. 7 A, at frame 724, send to be used for the second order of realization example overall situation button, as in conjunction with the more detailed discussion of Fig. 7 C.Simultaneously, wait at frame 718 subnets 220.

Forward now Fig. 7 B to, the details of overall button is shown, the frame 706,708 among the corresponding diagram 7A, 714 and 720.As what can find out from Fig. 7 B, the RF of subnet 220 transmission is illustrated by frame 725-740, and the RF transmission of subnet 230 is illustrated by frame 742-756.The first and second link requirements occur at frame 725,727 and 742, comprise that subnet 220 wait command send the time that the second link requires simultaneously in subnet 230.At frame 728, this order is sent to subnet 220, simultaneously at frame 742, and subnet 230 wait command.Then, specifying the random wait time at frame 730 to subnet 220, should be a chronomere less than the largest random stand-by period time in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 7 B, simultaneously at frame 746, specified the largest random stand-by period to subnet 230.Then, discuss in conjunction with Fig. 5 and 6B as top, at frame 732-736, send another link requirement, iterated command, and collect from subnet 220 and to confirm, wait at frame 748-752 subnet 230 simultaneously.At frame 738, collect bitmap, simultaneously at frame 754, subnet 230 is waited for.At last, in frame 740 and 756, subnet 220 and 230 is waited for respectively the duration of the propagation delay time of their hypothesis.

Forward now Fig. 7 C to, should be appreciated that, the frame 710,712,716,718,722,724 and 728 among the details corresponding diagram 7A of overall button 2 is according to occurring in conjunction with identical mode as described in Fig. 7 A-B as top.Can find out that from Fig. 7 C the RF transmission of subnet 220 is illustrated by frame 758-776, the RF transmission of subnet 230 is illustrated by frame 778-794.The first and second links require to appear at frame 758,760 and 778, and it comprises subnet 220 wait command and send the time that the second link requires in subnet 230.As top described in conjunction with Fig. 7 A, at frame 762, send the 3rd link and require (in the subnet 220 second), simultaneously in frame 780 subnets 230 wait command.At frame 782, order is sent to subnet 230, simultaneously at frame 764, and subnet 220 wait command.Then, specify the random wait time at frame 784 to subnet 230, in Fig. 7 B, this time is the time quantum less than the largest random stand-by period, specifies maximum latency at frame 766 to subnet 220 simultaneously.Then, as discussing in conjunction with Fig. 5, at frame 786-790, send another link requirement in the above, repeat this order, and collect from subnet 230 and to confirm, wait at frame 768-772 subnet 220 simultaneously.Collect bitmap at frame 792, subnet 220 is waited at frame 774 simultaneously.At last, in frame 776 and 794, subnet 220 and 230 is waited for respectively the duration of the propagation delay time of their hypothesis.

Therefore, the method and system of the illuminator that is used for the one or more RF controls of bridge joint is provided.Although described the present invention in conjunction with the exemplary embodiment in each accompanying drawing, but should be appreciated that, can use other similar embodiment, perhaps can make amendment and replenish described embodiment, be used for carrying out the function identical with the present invention, and do not depart from the present invention.For example, those of skill in the art will recognize that described the present invention can be applicable to the electronic equipment of any type of radio communication on identical RF in this application, use and need not be confined to illumination.Therefore, the present invention should not be confined to any single embodiment, and should think in the wider scope according to claims.

Claims

1. wireless lighting control system, wherein all on identical radio frequency (RF), this system comprises all wireless transmission:

The first lighting control subnet is connected to the first light fixture in operation;

The second lighting control subnet is connected to the second light fixture in operation, and wherein the first and second lighting control subnet operate on the identical RF; And

Bridge, wirelessly and operatively communicate by letter with the first and second lighting control subnet and the first and second lighting control equipments, wherein, it is movable that described bridge sends subnet to this first and second lighting control subnet, so that the first and second lighting control subnet stop to send and wait for subsequently transmission from described bridge, wherein said bridge specified for the first stand-by period to described the first lighting control subnet between transmission period subsequently described, and described the second lighting control subnet is specified the largest random stand-by period.

2. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said subnet activity requires to start with link.

3. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said bridge response detect the RF signal, and to send described subnet movable.

4. system as claimed in claim 3, wherein, described bridge is set at random propagation delay time, and sends order about the first light fixture to the first lighting control subnet.

5. system as claimed in claim 3, wherein said RF signal comprise be stored in described bridge in the relevant light scene identifier of light scene.

6. system as claimed in claim 5, wherein, described RF signal comprises the illumination command relevant with light scene, and wherein said bridge is determined the light scene relevant with this illumination command.

7. system as claimed in claim 5 responds button on the master controller in described the first lighting control subnet by the detected RF signal of described bridge by described the first lighting control subnet and presses and send.

8. system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said bridge also comprises display, wherein said display is indicated the state of this first and second light fixture.

9. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said the first lighting control subnet comprises master controller.

10. system as claimed in claim 9, wherein, described master controller comprises indicator, the state of this first light fixture of wherein said indicator for displaying.

11. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said the first lighting control subnet comprises lighting control equipment.

12. system as claimed in claim 11, wherein said lighting control equipment is light modulator.

13. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said bridge is connected to external unit in operation.

14. system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said bridge is connected to by RS-232 and is connected to described external unit in the operation.

15. system as claimed in claim 13, wherein, described bridge is from described external unit receiving time information.

16. system as claimed in claim 13, wherein, described bridge receives instruction from described external unit.

17. the system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, described bridge receiving time information is with in sunrise with carry out at sunset predetermined behavior.

18. the method for a wireless-controlled lighting systems, wherein all wireless transmission all and each subnet upper at identical radio frequency (RF) be operating on the identical radio frequency (RF), the method comprises:

Send the subnet activity by bridge to the first and second lighting control subnet that operate on the identical RF, the movable indication of wherein said subnet the first and second lighting control subnet stop to send and waiting for the subsequently transmission that receives from described bridge; And

The first lighting control subnet was specified for the first stand-by period, and the second lighting control subnet was specified for the second stand-by period.

19. method as claimed in claim 18 further comprises: send the illumination control command to the first lighting control subnet.

20. being the buttons on the response illumination control bridge, method as claimed in claim 18, wherein said forwarding step press.

21. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein said forwarding step are that the response detection is by the RF signal of the master controller transmission of the first lighting control subnet.

22. method as claimed in claim 21, wherein said RF signal comprise be stored in described bridge on the relevant light scene identifier of imaginary button.

23. method as claimed in claim 21, wherein said RF signal comprise the second illumination control command relevant with light scene.

24. method as claimed in claim 21, wherein said RF signal is pressed and is sent by described master controller response button.

25. method as claimed in claim 23 also comprises: determine the imaginary button relevant with light scene according to described illumination control command.

26. method as claimed in claim 18 also comprises: according to affirmation, show the state of each subnet at bridge.

27. method as claimed in claim 18 also comprises:

Receiving time information is with in sunrise with carry out at sunset predetermined behavior.

28. method as claimed in claim 18 also comprises receiving time information.

29. method as claimed in claim 18 also comprises: receive the instruction from external unit.

30. a bridge, wherein all on identical radio frequency (RF), this bridge comprises all wireless transmission:

Transmitter is used for sending message to the first and second lighting control subnet, and wherein said the first and second subnets operate on the predetermined RF;

Receiver is used for from being scheduled to this first and second subnets receipt message on the RF;

Storer is used for storage information;

Input-output apparatus is used for receiving or transmission information; And

Processor, wherein, described processor is connected to described storer, transmitter, receiver and input-output apparatus in operation, and it is movable that wherein said processor makes described transmitter send subnet to the first and second subnets, to indicate this first and second lighting control subnet to stop to send and waiting for illumination command, wherein said processor also makes described transmitter send for the first order and random wait time to the first subnet, and sends the largest random stand-by period to the second subnet.

31. bridge as claimed in claim 30, wherein said bridge are also from the equipment confirmation of receipt of the first subnet.

32. bridge as claimed in claim 30, wherein said subnet activity requires to start with link.

33. bridge as claimed in claim 32, wherein said processor response sends the link requirement by the signal that receiver receives from master controller in the first subnet.

34. bridge as claimed in claim 32, wherein, described processor also sends the second link requirement by transmitter to the first and second subnets, send the 3rd link requirement to the first subnet, sent for the second order and the second random wait time to the second subnet, and sent for the second largest random stand-by period to the first subnet, and receive second by receiver from the second subnet and confirm.

35. bridge as claimed in claim 32, wherein, described input-output apparatus is suitable for receiving alerting signal, and described processor is suitable for responding this alerting signal and transmits described link requirement.

36. bridge as claimed in claim 30 also comprises display device, is used for to user's presentation information.

37. bridge as claimed in claim 36, wherein said display device present the status information relevant with the first and second subnets.

38. bridge as claimed in claim 36, wherein said display device is lcd screen.

39. bridge as claimed in claim 36, wherein said display device is light-emitting diode display.

40. bridge as claimed in claim 30, wherein said RF are one of 390MHz, 418MHz or 434MHz.

41. being RS-232, bridge as claimed in claim 30, wherein said input-output apparatus connect.

42. bridge as claimed in claim 30, wherein said bridge also send order to the first subnet of being scheduled on the RF.

43. bridge as claimed in claim 30, wherein, described the first subnet comprises the first master controller and the first lighting control equipment, and described the second subnet comprises the second master controller and the second lighting control equipment.