DE102006047568A1 - Configuration and control method for electrical devices e.g. light, roller holder involves providing identification mechanism that radiates identification signals to technical device and receives identification of selected technical device - Google Patents

Abstract

An identification mechanism of a control device (1) receives and identifies control functions for electrical devices (18) for a user of the control device either directly from the electrical devices or through a central switching unit (15). The control device has an indicator (2) to show the electrical device that can be controlled. The identification mechanism radiates identification signals (4) through a transceiver mechanism to the electrical device or receives an identification of the selected electrical device that is indicated to the user. An independent claim is included for a configuration and control apparatus.

Description

The The invention relates to a method and a device for configuration and control of technical equipment according to the preamble of the claim 1 or the preamble of claim 20.

Current the control of electrically operated devices and Devices, e.g. the interior decoration of an apartment such as light, Shutters, etc., either over a direct connection of the electrical power supply (e.g. these facilities or over a common control bus (Controller Area Network CAN, European Installation Bus EIB) to which the equipment is connected.

in the Case of direct control of electrically operated devices the installation is usually a fixed wiring and therefore inflexible against changes. It is by the given wiring a unique assignment between electrically operated device and switching device given, which usually allows only a few limited functions.

These limited possibilities the hardwired assignment of control device and electrical operated device tried by means of functionally variable overcome interconnected bus systems. The selection of the device to be controlled takes place in the control via bus systems by preconfigured identification features, i. on the corresponding Control device (e.g., a switch, a remote control or a control panel) becomes the assigned identification feature addressed. This is for the correct operation requires knowledge of which identification feature was assigned during configuration of the system. Is the control device not or cryptically labeled, the user has no choice but to by trying to assign the appropriate switch. In so-called Control Panels it is required over navigate several menu levels until the device to be controlled is addressed can be. With the increasing mechanization of the environment, the number is growing the devices to be controlled and the configuration and control the systems will work for Installers and users a challenge.

Similar requirements as in the general control of electrically operated devices arise in the control of home electronics devices such as video recorders, televisions or hi-fi systems. For this purpose, a matched remote control is usually supplied for each individual device, which can also perform only the functions of each individual device. With a rather large number of such individual devices in today's households, this quickly leads to the fact that you need a variety of differing in their way of operation remote controls to operate all the individual devices at all. In the WO 2005/036325 A1 Therefore, a kind of universal remote control is proposed with which various individual devices can be operated, wherein the identification of the respective individual device to be controlled via built-in the single device RFID tag (RFID = radio frequency labels with identification function) takes place. For this purpose, the remote control using RFID reader in their environment queries RFID labels and determines a unitary identification feature that emits each RFID tag, which devices it is. For this purpose, the remote control contacts a central database and asks for the identification of the respective device and which control functions are available for the selected terminal. This then allows the user, for example via a graphical user interface, to select the appropriate control functions. A disadvantage of this remote control is that the selection of the respective terminal based on the RFID identification is not transparent to the user. Are, as is now the case by default, for example, in a living room several individual devices such as VCRs and televisions and hi-fi system built immediately adjacent, so would identify these immediately adjacent individual devices using RFID tag, the correct selection of the desired single device rather random be done because due to the non-directional radiation of the identification request by the remote control all in the transmission range of the RFID reader remote control RFID tags respond and the remote would have to pick the most appropriate from these answers. But this is the assignment of remote control and single device rather unreliable.

task The present invention is therefore a method and a Propose device with which the selection of an electric device to be controlled more reliable and for the user more manageable can be made.

The solution the task of the invention arises in terms of the method of the characterizing Features of claim 1 and in terms of the device the characterizing features of claim 20 in each case in cooperation with the characteristics of the associated generic term.

The invention is based on a method for the configuration and control of technical devices, in which the respective technical device to be controlled via an associated Kenn Drawing unit, in particular an RFID tag, detected by an identification device of a control device and identified and can be triggered by a user on the control device control functions for the respective technical device to be controlled, either transmitted directly to the technical device or via a with the each to be controlled technical device related central exchange unit to the technical facility to be forwarded. Such a method is further developed in that the user of the control device with the control device itself or a pointing device assigned to the control device points to the respective technical device to be controlled itself or to an associated with the respective technical device to be controlled, associated, associated switching device, wherein the identification device by means of a transmitting and receiving device spatially bundled radiates identification signals in the direction of each selected to be controlled technical device or the associated switching device and receives the alignment or identification of the selected controlled technical device or the associated switching device the user clearly , By this procedure is ensured or improved over the previously outlined approach that the user of the control device is traceable and influenced exactly that technical device or the associated switching device is selected, the control wants to make the user while the user receives feedback that he actually has also selected the desired device to be controlled. The alignment of the control device and the user-correctable display of the selected device to be controlled at the same time the spatially bundled identification signals are aligned more precisely towards the device to be controlled, thus improving the identification of exactly the device to be controlled, which the user actually wants to select , Thus, it can be safely avoided that a user only points roughly in the direction of the device to be controlled and that the identification signals from the wrong device are received and answered on the basis of adjacent other devices to be controlled. Thus, incorrect operation can be prevented in a manner that is very easy for the user to understand and the operating safety of the technical device to be controlled can be substantially increased. The inventive method thus enables a nearly intuitive operation of technical equipment to be controlled, without the user having to acquire extensive experience with the operation of the control device or is subject to the risk of incorrect operation.

From It is particularly advantageous if the respective technical control Device or the associated switching device with the pointing device, in particular visually, is displayed directly. Such a visual display for example, in the form of a laser pointer or the like optically Focusing lighting device allows easy and cost-effective control, whether the control device indeed on the right technical device to be controlled or the associated Switchgear aligned is by on the technical device to be controlled or the assigned switching device a corresponding light spot is projected and thus the alignment of the control device easy to control. In addition, this procedure requires no corresponding modification of the technical device to be controlled or the corresponding associated switching device, but can be present any technical equipment or switching devices used become.

In Another conceivable procedure can be controlled technical device or the associated switching device, a signaling device have to be controlled after a successful identification of the technical device by the control device the user the successful Identification signals. For this purpose, for example, in the to be controlled technical device or the associated switching device a light emitting diode or other signaling device to be installed according to correct identification of the technical device or the associated switching device short confirmation signal that the identification is executed and that this technical Device or the associated switching device for the execution of control functions via the control device ready. Of course can also other, for example acoustic signaling device be provided.

Of significant advantage for the operation of controlling technical equipment or associated switching device, it is when the control device for the configuration of control functions of the selected to be controlled technical device is used by the control device. In this case, the logical connections between technical devices to be controlled, associated switching devices and other components required for the control can be programmed and stored in a very intuitive manner by means of the procedure described above. In particular, if in a further embodiment, the control device in the configuration of control functions on the respective technical device to be controlled or the associated switching device shows and transmits the functional connection to be configured by the technical device and switching device to the central office in which the Functional connection as the call is stored, can be easily programmed and thus recalled without much knowledge of the system, the logical connection to the control of the technical device in the configuration of the user. Thus, it is unnecessary for the user to consult extensive documentation for the programming of the technical device or to find his way through complicated user guidance in the control device in order to establish the respective required logical connection between switching device, technical device and control device.

Farther it goes without saying Of particular advantage, when the control device during normal operation of the technical device for triggering of control functions of the selected technical control Device is used. Thereby the respective control functions become for the selected technical device provided on the control device, with different Operator guidance to the Example over predefined keys, menu-like operator functions or also via graphical user interfaces can be realized.

A Significant improvement in the identification of each to be controlled technical device or the associated switching device can be characterized achieve that the reception characteristics of the identification device by the orientation of the control device by means of the pointing device the user to the respective selected technical to be controlled Device or the associated switching device can be improved. hereby the orientation of the control device for the user using the Pointing device reproduced immediately recognizable and therefore can corrected immediately and intuitively improved. By this orientation the condition is created that in further embodiment existing transmitting and receiving devices of the identification device optimally to the technical equipment to be controlled or the associated switchgear are aligned and thus exactly the RFID tag to be controlled technical device or the associated switching device is selected and can be identified exactly. Here are in further Embodiment of the transmitting and receiving device of the identification device wireless transmission techniques for Identification of the identification unit used, which in itself the RFID technology are known.

From It is also particularly advantageous if the identification device a transmitting and receiving device used, with a spatially focused radiation and receiving identification signals in the direction of each selected too controlling technical device or the associated switching device is possible. As a result, focusing of the identification signals becomes accurate the one targeted by means of the pointing device technical device or the associated switching device achieved an accurate identification of the RFID tags alone allows controlled technical device or the associated switching device. Adjacent, also very close to the technical control Device or the associated switching device arranged other technical Devices or switching devices as well their RFID tags are due to the exact focusing of the identification signals not respond or only in a subordinate manner to the identification signals and thus the selection of the desired improve technical device or the associated switching device. In this case, in a further embodiment, the spatially bundled radiation of identification signals by influencing the directivity of antennas of the identification device be made. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the spatially limited Radiation of identification signals by means of detuning the reception properties of the antenna arrangement takes place. such Techniques for spatial bundled Radiation of signals by means of antennas are known in principle and can especially for the query of the RFID tags can be applied modified. in this connection it is conceivable in a further embodiment in particular that at Multiple answers of adjacent RFID tags the identification device those Signals as the tag unit of each to be controlled view of the technical device or the associated switching device, the one with the strongest Transmit power to respond to the identification signals. Of course they are also other selection criteria conceivable.

It is particularly advantageous if the central exchange unit is connected via a communication network, in particular a system for networking of technical equipment with the respective technical device to be controlled or the associated switching device. As a result, a plurality of technical devices connected to the communication network can be controlled by means of the central switching unit, whose control functions can be flexibly adapted and influenced via corresponding interfaces to the communication network. It is advantageous here if the communication network is wired, preferably an EIB bus network or a CAN network, since then can be used on known technology such networks. Of course, it is conceivable that the communication network is also an undirected wireless communication network, preferably a Zigbee network. Such techniques are increasingly due to the simplified installation of Communication infrastructures without the need for pulling cables or the like in use.

A further improvement of the control of technical facilities let yourself then reach, if between control device and central switching unit a bidirectional communication for the exchange of control information consists. Thus, both the control device control sequences to the specify central exchange unit as well as the central exchange unit, for example The necessities Information on the control of a technical device to the control device about to Configuring a user interface and thus further improvement reach the user's control. It is also conceivable that between control device and each to be controlled technical equipment directly a bidirectional Communication exists for the exchange of control information, because then also appropriate exchange between the controlled technical device and the control device can be done. Here is In a further embodiment, it is conceivable that the control device can use wireless transmission techniques, preferably Bluetooth, WLAN or Zigbee for transmitting the control information the respectively selected used to controlled technical device.

Also it is conceivable that the control device may include wireless transmission techniques, preferably Bluetooth, WLAN or Zigbee for transmitting the control information used to the central office.

The The invention further relates to a device for configuration and control of technical facilities, comprising one of each to be controlled technical device associated labeling unit, in particular an RFID tag, which by means of an identification device from a control device is detectable and identifiable, wherein the control device facilities for transmission of control functions for has the respective technical equipment to be controlled, directly to transmitted the technical equipment or about one with the respective technical device to be controlled in connection standing central exchange unit to the technical facility to get redirected. Such a generic device is further developed by the fact that the control unit a the control device associated pointing device with which the user on the technical equipment to be controlled itself or on a with the each to be controlled technical equipment in functional Connection standing, assigned switching device can show, wherein the identification device a transmitting and receiving device, with a spatially focused radiation and receiving identification signals in the direction of each selected too controlling technical device or the associated switching device is possible. The combination of pointing device and spatially focused radiation and reception of identification signals by the transmitting and receiving devices The identification device allows a more targeted selection to be controlled technical equipment or associated switching devices, as this for example, previous remote controls or the like possible was that relatively imprecise on the technical equipment to be controlled or the associated switching device could be aligned and above all the user no feedback about that whether the choice of technical equipment to be controlled or the associated switching device by his actions correctly and in the one he desires Meaning could become.

From It is of significant advantage if the pointing device is essentially a having punctually acting lighting device, such as a Laser pointing device, preferably in the form of a laser pointer or the like. A Such lighting device is simple and inexpensive to manufacture and in the control device to integrate, at the same time is by such a laser pointer or the like generated light spot on the device to be controlled or the associated switching device to recognize it clearly visible and thus to verify that it is the right one to be controlled device or the correct associated switching device has been selected.

alternative or additionally It is also conceivable that at the respective technical equipment to be controlled a signaling device is provided, which is a successful Identification of the technical device to be controlled the control device displays. For this purpose, a corresponding signaling device Ideally already integrated in the technical equipment or to arrange adjacent to the technical device, wherein the signaling device for example about a light-emitting diode, another optical display or via a acoustic or other signaling to the user, that the right technical equipment or the right switchgear has been selected.

A further improvement in the identification of the desired by the user to be controlled technical device or the associated switching device can be achieved if the transmitting and receiving devices of the control device spatially focused radiation of identification signals by influencing the Richtwir kung antennas enable the transmitting and receiving device of the identification device. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the spatially bundled radiation of identification signals by means of a detuning of the reception properties of the antenna arrangement in the transmitting and receiving device of the control device takes place. Here, a multiplicity of per se known techniques for influencing the radiation properties of antennas can be used, which are familiar to the person skilled in the art and must be modified if necessary for use in RFID technology.

In a first embodiment of the control device, it is conceivable that the control device a number of controls that the respective functions assigned to the respective technical device to be controlled are. Such a requirement of firmly arranged on the control unit Controls, such as on-off controls, four directional arrows, an "ok" field, a "+" field and a "-" field can be one Control a large number of functions of typical technical equipment, which, for example, contain pure switching functions or functions, like manipulated variables Temperatures, light intensity or the like.

In In another embodiment, it is also conceivable that the control device is a menu-like User interface, with the depending on the respective functions at the respective technical equipment to be controlled the possible Control functions are available. Such menu-like user interfaces provide a hierarchy of individual functions that are structured in terms of content and on different menu levels, between which the user can jump, the respective functions to disposal put. Such menu-like user interfaces allow with a relatively limited display capacity a variety of different Functions, the disadvantage being that the Users must jump between each level of the menu to get the desired Select functions.

Either in the embodiment of the control device with a number of fixed Controls as well as providing a menu-like User interface, it is conceivable that the assignment of the controls or the functions of the user interface dynamically to the functions each of the technical equipment to be controlled are customizable. For this purpose, after an identification of the technical Setup either directly from the technical facility or from the central exchange specified which control functions this technical device needed and these are the existing control units of the control device assigned dynamically. For example, a "+" field in one technical device serve to raise a temperature, whereas the same field in a hi-fi device changes the volume. hereby it becomes possible in particular that without additional Actions of the user solely due to the identification of the selected technical Setup the assignment of the controls is done automatically.

In In another embodiment, it is also conceivable that the control device has a graphical user interface, preferably in the form of a screen on which the respective Functions at the respective technical equipment to be controlled displayable and selectable are. Such graphical user interfaces are becoming commonplace used to realize a very flexible way of user guidance, for example by making the screen of the graphical user interface as a touchscreen screen is formed on the programmable control panels for control the functions of each to be controlled technical device are dynamically displayable and selectable. On the one hand, it stands for the user always the same user interface, on the other hand is the presentation of programmable control panels on one Programmatically easy to implement screen and almost arbitrary to change and also later still adapt, so for the developer of such user interfaces achieved a high degree of flexibility can be.

In In another embodiment, it is also conceivable that the programmable Control panels are person-specific displayable and selectable. Especially, if the control device a person identification device, preferably one Fingerprint reader or the like, with which the respective user recognizable and the programmable control panels person-specific displayable a personalized user interface can be achieved for example, a fast user for an advanced user Allows access to many functions, an inexperienced user, however, corresponding help functions and only relatively few, manageable Functions at the same time. This can be done by automatic Person identification device also without extensive or Consciously the user's actions are done, only his finger on the example handy arranged person identification device in the form of a fingerprint reader needs to hang up.

A further increase in the ease of use of the control device can be achieved if the adaptation of the user interface of the control device after an identification of the respective technical device to be controlled and / or the person of the user of the central switching office on the basis of deposited profiles vornehmbar is. Such profiles may include both the type and range of functions provided for the technical equipment to be controlled and the person of the user, wherein the profiles of the technical equipment to be controlled may be supplied by the manufacturer of the technical equipment to be controlled and stored in the central exchange , This eliminates the need to make new technical equipment to be controlled known to the control unit and thus to have the corresponding control functions available.

to Securing the operation of the control device, it is advantageous if the control device or the central office only for the control respectively controlling technical equipment that is the control device or the central exchange were previously stored once. With that you can Malfunction of devices, the control device or the central office in advance not disclosed have been avoided. It is also conceivable that the control device a feature of a child safety includes, especially in the Use of such control devices in the household is beneficial to the access to control the controllable technical equipment against unwanted operations to be protected by children.

A Further simplification of the use of the control device can be achieve that the control device or the central office Speech recognition devices with which connected technical equipment can be influenced by speech. The Speech recognition function here can either via a arranged in the control unit speech recognition device done or via a voice transmission to the switching device in which then the actual speech recognition is performed. In such a speech recognition function, the display unit may of the control system to be controlled to the Belonging to the institution represent respective setting options, from which then the User selects the desired function by voice. In order to could the relatively complicated selection process a menu function on a graphical user interface with a stylus omitted. For example, the user of the control device could show a aufzuschende and identifiable with the control unit lamp and pronounce the voice command "To" to to turn on the lamp. In this case, by the identification device according to the invention a simplification compared purely linguistically Control function of connected devices to be controlled possible since in the procedure according to the invention It is always clear which equipment to be controlled is and to what institution this refers to the voice command.

The The method and the device serve in addition to many conceivable applications mainly to technical equipment in the form of equipment of the Home technology in an apartment, an office or the like. Or in shape of devices the consumer electronics or the like. To control. It goes without saying by itself, that the principle of the present invention is based on a variety of other control tasks can be transferred.

A particularly preferred embodiment the device according to the invention as well as exemplary schemes for the course of the method according to the invention shows the drawing.

It demonstrate:

1 A first advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention with a control device, a pointing device and an identification device and an operator keyboard,

2 - Another embodiment of the device according to the invention with a control device according to 1 with a graphical user interface and a fingerprint reader,

3 A functional diagram for the use of the device according to the invention and signaling connection of the control device to a central exchange for controlling a luminaire or a switch,

4 Another functional scheme for the use of the device according to the invention and signaling connection of the control device directly to a hi-fi system to be controlled,

5 - Signal sequence according to 3 in the control of a luminaire or a switch by the user,

6 Signal flow in the configuration of the control of a luminaire or of a switch by an installer or the user,

7 - Signal flow in the control of a hi-fi system by the user with the help of stored in the central office profiles.

In the 1 is a schematic representation of a first advantageous embodiment of he inventive device with a control device 1 , a pointing device 2 and an identification device 3 and an operator keypad 6 - 9 represented by means of which to be controlled technical facilities 18 . 22 or associated switching devices 14 can be advantageously controlled wirelessly. The control device 1 is designed for example in the form of a kind of remote control as a portable device that can work example supported battery. In this case, the control device 1 an only schematically indicated pointing device 2 in the form of a laser pointer, with the front of the control unit 1 a laser beam towards one in the 1 not shown, to be controlled technical device 18 . 22 can be projected and there for the user of the control device 1 is clearly visible. Approximately parallel to the course of the laser beam in the transmitting and receiving direction is also an antenna only schematically indicated 3 arranged, which is a directional radiation of an identification signal 4 enabled without addressing neighboring facilities. For this purpose, the so-called RFID technology is used in the passive, externally stimulated and basically known RFID tags 19 be excited by the transmitting device and return a corresponding answer with an identification number and / or other information. With the help of the antenna 3 and a corresponding orientation or directional characteristic of the antenna 3 can be ensured that unlike conventional RFID technology targeted individual RFID tags 19 be addressed by the directional characteristic of the antenna 3 is very tightly focused and set quasi linear, the alignment of this narrow bundle of radiated identification signals using the pointing device in the form of the laser pointer to the respective device to be controlled 18 . 22 is aligned. This will only be the RFID tag 19 this technical device to be controlled 18 . 22 addressed and gives a corresponding identification response 4 , again from the antenna 3 can be caught. In this identification answer 4 is sent to the controller 1 preferably a unitary ID number transmitted to the control device 1 or a central exchange still shown in the following figures 15 allows the technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 be clearly identified in terms of their control functions.

Thus it is possible that with the help of the control device 1 about the use of the pointing device 2 and the transmitting and receiving device in the form of the antenna 3 a clear and accurate identification of the technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 which is an RFID tag 19 includes or in which such an RFID tag 19 is arranged adjacent and logically assigned. The control device 1 gives this information about the identification of the technical device to be controlled 18 . 22 with the help of a wireless communication 10 about using Bluetooth, Zigbee or WLAN to the in the 1 not shown central exchange 15 Next, the manner described below then corresponding control functions of the technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 or an associated switching device triggers.

• – Die „Ein-Aus"-Tasten 6 dienen dem einfachen An- und Abschalten einer zu steuernden Einrichtung,
• – Die Tasten 7 mit Richtungspfeilen können gerätespezifisch interpretiert werden, wie z.B. Dimmereinstellung, Farbeinstellung bei LED-Beleuchtung, Lammelleneinstellung bei Jalousien, Temperatureinstellung, etc.,
• – Die „+"-Taste 9 und die Bestätigungstaste 8 als „OK"-Taste dienen z.B. der Gruppierung von Einrichtungen (d.h. der Erstellung einer Liste von Geräten durch mehrmaliges Anvisieren) und zur Unterstützung der Konfiguration der Vorrichtung, wie nachfolgend noch näher ausgeführt.

As a user interface is used in the embodiment of the control device 1 according to 1 a keyboard with a number of generic control keys, such as two keys 6 with the function "on-off" as well as four buttons 7 with directional arrows, a confirmation button 8th as an "ok" field and an adjustment key 9 as "+" button The functions of these buttons 6 - 9 are of course arbitrarily changeable and to the required control functions of the respective technical device to be controlled 18 . 22 also dynamically adaptable. For example, the buttons can 6 - 9 have the following tasks:

• - The "on-off" buttons 6 serve the simple switching on and off of a device to be controlled,
• - The button's 7 Directional arrows can be interpreted device-specific, such as dimmer adjustment, color adjustment in LED lighting, slat adjustment in blinds, temperature setting, etc.,
• - The "+" button 9 and the confirmation button 8th The "OK" button is used, for example, for grouping devices (ie making a list of devices by repeatedly sighting them) and for supporting the configuration of the device, as explained in more detail below.

The control device 1 furthermore has a transmitting and receiving device in the form of an antenna 3 as an RFID reader, with the antenna 3 a variable, possibly via a thumbwheel 11 adjustable antenna directionality ("beamforming antenna"), whose detection range can be adjusted by the user in accordance with the application 3 sends and receives with focused directivity and evaluates the received signals 4 based on their signal strength. That in the device to be controlled 18 . 22 or an associated switching device arranged RFID tag 19 which is received with the strongest power is considered that of the technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 should be selected despite the orientation of the identification signals 4 multiple answers from RFID tags 19 due to a number of adjacent devices 18 . 22 Come back.

The control device 1 also has an integrated pointing device 2 in the form of a laser pointer, which uses a suitable optics, the set antenna directivity of the antenna 3 For makes the user visible and thus the unique, optical identification of the device to be controlled 18 . 22 made possible by the user. The linking of antenna 3 and visualization of the antenna 3 illuminated area is the basis for the simple, intuitive operation of the control unit 1 in the configuration and control of technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 ,

Furthermore, the control device 1 an ad 5 in the form of a display, which of the additional control and possibly the selection of the driven devices 18 . 22 serves (eg if several RFID tags 19 lie in the reception area).

Furthermore, the control device contains 1 not further specified devices for wireless communication to a central switching unit 15 , For this purpose, wireless technology such as Bluetooth, ZigBee or WLAN can be used. Alternatively, a direct address of the device to be controlled 18 . 22 through the control device 1 conceivable, like this in the 4 will be explained in more detail. Such a direct communication between control device 1 and technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 requires increased complexity because the generic control commands would have to be component specific.

The device proposed here and the underlying method simplify the process of configuration and control of technical devices to be controlled 18 . 22 clearly, as this particular from the 3 becomes recognizable. The core component is the unique identification of a device to be controlled 18 here in the form of a to the power supply 17 via an actor 16 and a cable 20 connected light 18 via a wireless identification device 19 such as preferably RFID tags used in the technical equipment to be controlled 18 integrated or assigned to this functionally or are present in associated switching devices. The user points with the portable control device 1 on the device to be controlled 18 , The control device 1 reads the identification via the RFID tag 19 in the device to be controlled 18 out and transmits these eg via Bluetooth or WLAN 10 along with the control command to a central office 15 , This only takes commands from registered devices to be controlled 18 and controls the desired device 18 either via a wired bus 24 or wireless transmission using eg ZigBee. For this purpose, about a wired network, a control command 24 to an actor 16 eg in the form of a switch, which then supplies the power 17 to the light 18 turns on and thus the light 18 turns. It would also be conceivable that the central exchange 15 one at the place of installation of the lamp 18 existing, stuck with the light 18 wired light switch 14 controls, then turn the light 18 turns.

In the 2 is another embodiment of the control device 1 with a graphical user interface on a screen 5 shown schematically, in which the pressure-sensitive screen 5 with a stylus similar to a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). On the screen 5 can control functions like the buttons already described 6 - 9 displayed as freely programmable symbols and with the stylus 12 to be selected. Of course, a large number of other functions such as help functions, more information or the like. On the screen 5 be presented, which help the user in the selection of the desired control function or the configuration of the technical device to be controlled 18 . 22 simplify. Furthermore, the control device 1 expandable at any time for new technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 because the respective user interface can be programmable via an open execution environment (eg Java VM). The user-specific program code of the user interface can be transmitted via the wireless interface or via memory cards provided by the manufacturers of the technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 be supplied instead of an individual remote control.

Furthermore, the control device 1 an only schematically indicated personal identification device in the form of a fingerprint scanner 13 on, the handy on the side of the control unit 1 which the user can touch with one finger. This makes it possible, almost incidentally an identification of the control device 1 To reach the person using, which can be exploited in the manner mentioned below. The presence of a personal identification device in the form of a fingerprint scanner 13 also allows adjustments to the user interface according to person-specific profiles. For example, a technically inexperienced user can display only the basic functions, while a user with technical knowledge can use a more complex display field.

In the 4 is an operation of the control device 1 shown at the control unit 1 direct contact with the technical equipment to be controlled 18 . 22 after receiving by means of the identification signal 4 the technical equipment here in the form of a hi-fi system 22 was identified. In this case, for example, by means of a wireless communication via known techniques such as Bluetooth, WLAN or Zigbee direct bidirectional exchange of information between technical equipment to be controlled 22 and the control device 1 take place, the control device 1 then of course the exact functions of the technical equipment to be controlled 22 know or have to get notified.

In the 5 and in a modification with customization of the user interface in the 7 is the logical signal sequence of an identification of the technical device to be controlled 18 according to 3 again explained in more detail. Here, the first of the control device 1 a directed identification signal to the RFID tag 19 the light 18 sent out by the RFID tag 19 in a basically known manner as an identification signal 25 is answered. In this identification signal 25 is, for example, a unitary ID number of the technical device to be controlled 18 included by the control unit 1 itself or after transmission 10 the received signal 25 from the central office 15 can be identified. The controller knows that 1 (primarily in direct configuration with the technical equipment to be controlled 18 ), which technical equipment to control 18 it is and what control functions for this device 18 to be available. At the same time, the central office 15 the control device 1 an information 27 on the design of the user interface and the control functions to be displayed there of the technical device to be controlled 18 to transfer. If the user now initiates a control function, for example, the light should 18 can be turned on, so can the central office 15 after the transmission of this control command by means of the wireless connection 10 and one in the central office 15 deposited link between the lamp 18 and the actor 16 this actor 16 eg by means of a bus system with a control command 24 supply and thus the power supply 17 to the light 18 by turn. In the extension according to 7 can in addition to the information 27 on the design of the user interface based on the selected technical device 18 also an information about it to the control device 1 be transmitted as the user interface is to be set person-dependent. This is done in advance by the user via the fingerprint scanner 13 identified and this information 29 via a signal 28 to the central exchange 15 passed on. Thus, in addition to the adaptation of the user interface to the technical device to be controlled 18 Also, the customization of the user interface can be easily accomplished.

In the 6 is now the configuration of such in the central office 15 to be deposited link. Using the control device 1 Simplifies the connection of a fixed switch 14 with the device to be controlled 18 , Again, the unique identification of the switch takes effect 14 by RFID tag 19 , The installer or the end customer first shows with the control unit 1 on the fixed switch 14 and uniquely identifies it via the RFID tag 19 , He then points to the device to be controlled, which also has an RFID tag 19 is to be identified, or on the device to be controlled 18 and the associated actuator 16 , eg an electronic switch, also via an RFID tag 19 ' is identified. The link thus defined is sent to the central exchange 15 transferred and stored there. Will the switch 14 now pressed, the switch transmits 14 the associated ID via a signal 25 to the central exchange 15 , Which then according to the control of the previously assigned device 18 does without the switch 14 electrically directly with the lamp 6 must be coupled.

1

control device

2

pointing device

3

Send- and receiving device

4

identification signal

5

display

6

One- and off buttons

7

arrow keys

8th

confirmation key

9

adjustment button

10

wireless Communication with central exchange

11

thumbwheel for focusing the detection area

12

stylus

13

fingerprint reader

14

switch

15

central exchange

16

actuator

17

power supply

18

lamp

19

RFID tag

20

power cable

21

wireless or wired communication

22

Hifi

23

direct communication

24

command

25

identification signal

26

identification signal

27

transmission Equipment- and personal identification

28

transmission Interface Configuration

29

info personal identification

Claims (40)

Method for the configuration and control of technical equipment ( 18 . 22 ), in which the technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) via a labeling unit assigned to it ( 19 ), in particular an RFID tag, by means of an identification device ( 3 ) from a control device ( 1 ) and is detected by a user on the control device ( 1 ) Control functions for the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) directly to the technical facility ( 18 . 22 ) or via a technical facility to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) associated central switching unit ( 15 ) to the technical facility ( 18 . 22 ), characterized in that the user of the control device ( 1 ) with the control device ( 1 ) itself or one of the control device ( 1 associated pointing device ( 2 ) to the technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) itself or to a technical facility to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) in functionally connected, assigned switching device ( 14 ), wherein the identification device ( 3 ) by means of a transmitting and receiving device spatially bundled identification signals ( 4 ) in the direction of the selected technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) radiates and / or receives and the orientation or identification of the selected technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) is clearly displayed to the user. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that the respective technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) with the pointing device ( 2 ), in particular visually, is displayed directly. Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the respective technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) has a signaling device which, after a successful identification of the technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) by the control device ( 1 ) signals to the user the successful identification. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) for the configuration of control functions of the selected technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) by the control device ( 1 ) is used. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) in the configuration of control functions to the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) and the functional connection of technical equipment ( 18 . 22 ) and switching device ( 14 ) to the central office ( 15 ), in which the functional connection is recalled stored. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) during normal operation of the technical equipment ( 18 . 22 ) for triggering control functions of the selected technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) is used. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reception properties of the identification device ( 3 ) by the orientation of the control device ( 1 ) by means of the pointing device ( 2 ) by the user to the selected technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) be improved. Method according to claim 7, characterized in that the transmitting and receiving device of the identification device ( 3 ) wireless transmission techniques for identifying the tagging unit ( 19 ) used. Method according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that the identification device ( 3 ) uses a transmitting and receiving device, with a spatially limited radiation and reception of identification signals ( 4 ) in the direction of the selected technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) is possible. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the spatially limited emission of identification signals ( 4 ) by influencing the directivity of antennas of the identification device ( 3 ) is made. Method according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that the spatially limited emission of identification signals ( 4 ) by means of a detuning of the reception properties of the antenna arrangement ( 3 ) he follows. Method according to one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the identification device ( 3 ) those signals as the tag unit ( 19 ) of the technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) with the strongest transmission power to the identification signals ( 4 ) reply. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central switching unit ( 15 ) via a communication network, in particular a system for interconnecting technical equipment ( 18 . 22 ) with the respective technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ). Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the communication network is wired is, preferably an EIB bus network or a CAN network. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the communication network is an undirected wireless communication network, preferably a Zigbee network is. Method according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that between control device ( 1 ) and central switching unit ( 15 ) there is bidirectional communication for the exchange of control information. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between control device ( 1 ) and the technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) there is bidirectional communication for the exchange of control information. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) wireless transmission techniques, preferably Bluetooth, WLAN or Zigbee, for transmitting the control information to the respective selected technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) used. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) wireless transmission techniques, preferably Bluetooth, WLAN or Zigbee for transmitting the control information to the central exchange ( 15 ) used. Device for the configuration and control of technical devices, in particular for carrying out a method according to claim 1, comprising one of the respective technical devices to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) associated marking unit ( 19 ), in particular an RFID tag, which by means of an identification device ( 3 ) from a control device ( 1 ) is detectable and identifiable, wherein the control device ( 1 ) Means for transmitting control functions to the technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) directly to the technical 18 . 22 ) or via a technical facility to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) associated central switching unit ( 15 ) to the technical facility ( 18 . 22 ), characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) a control device ( 1 ) associated pointing device ( 2 ), with which the user can access the respective technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) itself or to a technical facility to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) in functionally connected, assigned switching device ( 14 ), the identification device ( 3 ) has a transmitting and receiving device with which a spatially bundled radiation and reception of identification signals ( 4 ) in the direction of the selected technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) or the associated switching device ( 14 ) is possible. Device according to claim 20, characterized in that the pointing device ( 2 ) has a substantially punctually acting lighting device. Device according to claim 21, characterized in that the pointing device ( 2 ) has a laser pointing device, preferably in the form of a laser pointer or the like. Apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that at the respective technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) a signaling device is provided which enables successful identification of the technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) by the control device ( 1 ). Device according to one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that the spatially bundled radiation of identification signals ( 4 ) by influencing the directivity of antennas of the transmitting and receiving device of the identification device ( 3 ) is made. Apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that the spatially bundled radiation of identification signals ( 4 ) by means of a detuning of the reception properties of the antenna arrangement ( 3 ) he follows. Device according to claim 24, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) a number of controls ( 6 - 9 ), which correspond to the respective functions at the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) assigned. Device according to claim 26, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) Controls ( 6 - 9 ) for the functions "on-off", four directional arrows, an "ok" field, a "+" field and a "-" field. Device according to one of claims 20 to 25, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) has a menu-like user interface, with the depending on the respective functions on the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) the possible control functions are available. Device according to one of claims 26 to 28, characterized in that the assignment of the operating elements ( 6 - 9 ) or the functions of the user interface dynamically to the functions of the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) are customizable. Device according to one of claims 20 to 25, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) a graphical user interface, preferably in the form of a screen ( 5 ), on which the respective functions at the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) are displayable and selectable. Device according to claim 30, characterized in that the screen ( 5 ) of the graphical user interface is designed as a touchscreen screen, on the programmable control fields for controlling the functions of the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) are dynamically displayable and selectable. Device according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that the programmable control fields Person-specific displayable and selectable. Device according to one of claims 30 to 32, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) a personal identification device ( 13 ), preferably a fingerprint reader or the like, with which the respective user can be recognized and the programmable control fields can be displayed in a person-specific manner. Device according to one of claims 20 to 33, characterized in that the operating software of the control device ( 1 ) is configured changeable, so that user-specific changes or additions or other adjustments of the user interface even during operation of the control device ( 1 ) are vornehmbar. Apparatus according to claim 34, characterized in that the adaptation of the user interface of the control device ( 1 ) after identification of the respective technical device to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) and / or the person of the user from the central office ( 15 ) is vornehmbar based deposited profiles. Device according to one of claims 20 to 35, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) or the central office ( 15 ) only for the control of each technical equipment to be controlled ( 18 . 22 ) that can be used by the control device ( 1 ) or the central office ( 15 ) were previously stored once. Device according to one of claims 20 to 36, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) or the central office ( 15 ) a child safety function of connected technical equipment ( 18 . 22 ) having. Device according to one of claims 20 to 37, characterized in that the control device ( 1 ) or the central office ( 15 ) Has speech recognition facilities with which associated technical facilities ( 18 . 22 ) are influenced by speech. Device according to one of claims 20 to 38, characterized in that technical devices ( 18 . 22 ) in the form of household appliances in an apartment, an office or the like. Are controllable. Device according to one of claims 20 to 39, characterized in that technical devices ( 18 . 22 ) are controllable in the form of consumer electronics or the like.