JP2010514141A - Power control device - Google Patents

Abstract

A power control device is provided.
A controllable light bulb is provided that includes an electrical connection, a receiver module, an electronic switch, a translucent housing, and a light emitting element. The electrical connection receives a power signal. The receiver module is powered by a power signal received via the electrical connection and determines control parameters based on on / off modulation of the power signal. The receiver module generates a control signal based on the control parameter while the power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal. The translucent casing houses the light emitting element. The light emitting element receives the output power signal.
[Selection] Figure 3

Description

Related applications

  No. 60 / 938,550 (filing date: May 17, 2007), 60 / 890,337 (filing date: February 16, 2007), 60/882 Claims the benefits of 757 (application date: December 29, 2006), 60 / 871,483 (application date: December 22, 2006). The entire disclosure of the above provisional patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

  The present disclosure relates to lighting systems, and more particularly to control of lighting systems.

  The description of “background art” in this specification is made in order to generally describe in what context the present disclosure is devised. The research conducted by the inventor whose name is currently given is within the scope described in this "Background Art" part, and if it is not explained, the "Background Art" that does not satisfy the standards as prior art at the time of filing As with the content of the part, no prior art, whether express or implied, is allowed for the present disclosure.

  FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a lighting system. Service panel 102 is in communication with switch 104. The switch 104 is in communication with the lighting fixture 106. The light bulb 108 is in communication with the lighting fixture 106. The switch 104 selectively allows the current from the service panel 102 to flow into the light bulb 108 via the lighting fixture 106. In order to control the bulb 108 on and off, the switch 104 must be activated.

  When the light bulb 108 is remotely controlled, a power line carrier switch may be used instead of the switch 104. In this case, the bulb 108 can be controlled to be turned on and off locally and remotely, for example by an entire house lighting off command. However, replacing the switch 104 requires work on the wire that normally propagates the maximum line voltage. Many homeowners need to ask an electrician to replace the switch 104, which is costly. Also, the new switch must match the style of the old switch 104, and a new wall plate must be purchased and installed.

  A controllable light bulb is provided comprising an electrical connection, a receiver module, an electronic switch, a translucent housing, and a light emitting element. The electrical connection receives a power signal. The receiver module is powered by a power signal received via the electrical connection and determines control parameters based on on / off modulation of the power signal. The receiver module generates a control signal based on the control parameter while the power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal. The translucent casing houses the light emitting element. The light emitting element receives the output power signal.

  In other features, on / off modulation includes a count of one of the presence of a power signal and the absence of a power signal over a predetermined period of time. On / off modulation includes binary data acquired at periodic sampling intervals, with the first binary state corresponding to the presence of the power signal and the second binary state corresponding to the absence of the power signal. The on / off modulation includes binary data determined by one period of the presence of the power signal and the absence of the power signal, the first binary state corresponds to a period shorter than a predetermined length, and the second binary state is It corresponds to a period longer than the predetermined length.

  More specifically, the receiver module determines the control parameters after the on / off modulation indicates a programming start sequence. The programming start sequence includes a predetermined on / off sequence executed within a predetermined time. When receiving the control signal, the electronic switch reduces the output power signal to substantially zero. When the electronic switch receives the control signal, the electronic switch reduces the output power signal to a dimming value. The dimming value is smaller than the power signal.

  As another feature, the receiver module has a power line carrier receiver module, and the power line carrier receiver module receives data based on the power signal and associates it with the first address. And accepts a command addressed to one of the first address and the global address. The control parameter includes a first address, and the receiver module generates a control signal based on the data. The power line carrier receiver module performs operations based on on / off modulation. The operation is at least one of an address reset operation, an address update operation, a connection broadcast operation, and an address transmission operation.

  In other features, the receiver module further includes a timing module that starts counting after the power signal is received. The control parameter includes a predetermined value. The receiver module generates a control signal when the timing module reaches a predetermined value. The receiver module sets a predetermined value based on the length of the period during which the power signal is on after the programming mode is started. The receiver module reduces the predetermined value if the power signal is controlled off before the timer module reaches the predetermined value.

  More specifically, the receiver module increases the predetermined value when the power signal is controlled in the order of off-on within a predetermined period after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiver module decreases the predetermined value if the power signal is controlled off-on-off within a predetermined period before the timer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiver module increases the predetermined value when the power signal is controlled off-on-off-on within a predetermined period after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. The electrical connection has a conductive male thread and a conductive end. The light emitting element has a metal filament.

  Power is supplied by the electrical connection means that receives the power signal and the power signal received through the electrical connection means, and the control parameter is determined based on the on / off modulation of the power signal and is controlled while the power signal is on. Receiving means for generating a control signal based on the parameter; electronic switch means for outputting an output power signal and reducing the output power signal based on the control signal; and a light emitting means for receiving the output power signal and generating light And a controllable light bulb comprising a translucent housing for housing the light emitting means.

  The controllable lighting fixture comprises a first electrical connection, a receiver module, an electronic switch, and a second electrical connection. The first electrical connection receives a power signal. The receiver module is powered by a power signal received via the first electrical connection, determines a control parameter based on on / off modulation of the power signal, and sets the control parameter while the power signal is on. Based on this, a control signal is selectively generated. The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal. The second electrical connection is inserted with a light bulb and provides an output power signal to the light bulb.

  A controllable light bulb is provided comprising an electrical connection, a receiver module, an electronic switch, a translucent housing, and a light emitting element. The electrical connection receives a power signal. The receiver module is powered by a power signal received via the electrical connection and selectively generates a control signal while the power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal. The translucent casing houses the light emitting element. The light emitting element receives the output power signal.

  The master controller includes a control module and a missing pulse transmitter. The control module generates control data for controllable devices that adjust the power consumption of the load. The missing pulse transmitter receives a periodic power signal, transmits an output power signal to the controllable device based on the periodic power signal, and between the zero-cross points of the periodic power signal, Control data is encoded into the output power signal by selectively reducing at least one of the signal amplitude and the power level of the output power signal.

  Receiving the first power signal and detecting a decrease in at least one of the signal amplitude and the power level of the first power signal between the zero crossing points of the first power signal; A missing pulse receiver that decodes the control data in the signal; a control module that stores the control data and generates a control signal based on the control data; and a load based on the first power signal and the control signal A controllable device comprising a switch for regulating a load power signal is provided.

  A controllable device for adjusting power consumption of a load, a control module for generating programming data including at least one of a timer value and a power level value; and a periodic power signal for receiving the controllable device An output power signal is transmitted based on the periodic power signal, and at least one of a signal amplitude and a power level of the output power signal is selectively selected between zero-cross points of the periodic power signal. A mounting programmer is provided comprising a missing pulse transmitter that encodes the programming data into the output power signal by reducing.

  The present disclosure can also be applied in different fields, which will become apparent from the detailed description below. The detailed description and specific examples are provided as illustrative of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, but are understood to be illustrative only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. I want.

  The present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. The attached drawings are as follows.

It is a functional block diagram which shows the illumination system which concerns on a prior art.

It is a functional block diagram showing an example of an electric lighting system according to the principle of the present disclosure. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of an electric lighting system according to the principle of the present disclosure. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of an electric lighting system according to the principle of the present disclosure. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of an electric lighting system according to the principle of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable light bulb according to the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable adapter according to the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable fixture according to the principles of the present disclosure.

It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a controller concerning a principle of this indication.

It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the programming module which concerns on the principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the programming module which concerns on the principle of this indication.

It is the figure which gives the table which shows the order of the presence or absence of electric power supply, and the command matched as an example.

6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of steps performed by a user when starting programming with a programming module.

It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the programming module in the case of enabling the input of programming by a user.

It is a flowchart which shows an example of the programming operation which a user performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the programming operation which a user performs. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the programming operation which a user performs.

FIG. 27 is a schematic functional diagram illustrating an example of a programming module that implements the programming operation illustrated in FIG. 26.

It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the programming module in the case of enabling the input of programming by a user. It is a flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of the programming module in the case of enabling the input of programming by a user.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a programmable load control system according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a programmable load control system according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a programmable load control system according to the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating missing pulse transmission according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating missing pulse transmission according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating missing pulse transmission according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating missing pulse transmission according to the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface according to the principle of the present disclosure.

It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a parameter control module according to the principle of the present disclosure. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a parameter control module according to the principle of the present disclosure. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a parameter control module according to the principle of the present disclosure.

It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the wiring structure of the missing pulse transmitter based on the principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a missing pulse transmitter according to the principle of the present disclosure.

It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the wiring structure of the missing pulse transmitter based on the principle of this indication. It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a missing pulse transmitter according to the principle of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable device according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable device according to the principles of the present disclosure.

It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a device control module according to the principle of the present disclosure.

It is a functional block diagram which shows an example of the attachment programmer based on the principle of this indication.

  The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or use. To clearly describe the present disclosure, like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to designate similar components. As used herein, the expression “at least one of A, B and C” should be interpreted to mean a logical operation (A or B or C), a non-exclusive logical OR. It should be noted that the steps involved in the method may be performed in a different order without changing the principles of the present disclosure.

  As used herein, the term module refers to an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), electronic circuit, processor (shared, dedicated or group) and memory, combinational logic, and one or more that executes one or more software or firmware programs. Any other suitable component that provides the functionality described herein will be referred to.

  FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an electric lighting system. The service panel 202 communicates with the switch 204 via the power distribution line 203. The switch 204 may be a wall switch, toggle switch, rocker switch, dimmer switch, or any other suitable switch. The switch 204 controls the flow of power to the lighting fixture 206. A controllable bulb 208 communicates with the lighting fixture 206.

  The controllable bulb 208 may have a receiver that receives the control signal. The control signal may include a wired signal received via the distribution line 203 and / or a wireless signal received via a radio frequency (RF) broadcast. The control signal may instruct the controllable bulb 208 to increase or decrease the light output.

  According to various embodiments, the controllable bulb 208 may have a timer that controls the light off after a predetermined time. The timer length may be programmed at the time of manufacture, may be set at the time of installation, and / or may be changed by the user after installation. As will be described in more detail below, the user can configure the timer by transmitting a control signal using a power line transmitter and / or radio frequency (RF) transmitter and / or by changing switch 204. The behavior can be changed.

  Using a controllable light bulb 208 instead of a standard light bulb can automate the operation of the light fixture 206 and the electrician does not need to replace the switch 204. The level of automation provided by the controllable bulb may include timed extinction, entire house extinction, computer lighting control, and / or lighting control from the web. The principle of the present disclosure has the same effect even in a structure including a three-way switch or a four-way switch.

  FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating another example of the electric lighting system. The power line carrier control module 250 communicates with the power distribution line 203 or another power distribution line (not shown) communicating with the service panel 202. The power line carrier control module 250 superimposes a control signal on the power distribution line 203. The controllable bulb 252 receives a control signal via the switch 204 and the lighting fixture 206.

  The power line carrier control module 250 may have a user interface for the user to increase or decrease the light output from one or more light sources, such as controllable bulbs 252. The power line carrier control module 250 may further communicate with portable devices 254 such as notebook computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and / or cell phones. The portable device 254 may send a lighting command to the power line carrier control module 250 via a wired network or a wireless network. Examples of wired networks or wireless networks include wired Ethernet, or IEEE 802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11h, 802.11n, 802.16, 802. 20 and / or a wireless interface such as Bluetooth.

  FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating another example of the electric lighting system. The service panel 202 communicates with the switch 204 via the power distribution line 203. Switch 204 is in communication with controllable lighting fixture 300. The light bulb 302 is in communication with a controllable lighting fixture 300. The controllable lighting fixture 300 allows the light output to be controlled without manually actuating the switch 204.

  If a conventional lighting fixture 300 is replaced with a controllable lighting fixture 300, a standard bulb, such as bulb 302, can be used. Bulb 302 and controllable bulbs 208 and 252 may include incandescent lamps, halogen bulbs, fluorescent lamps, light emitting diodes, and / or other suitable light emitting elements.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram illustrating another example of the electric lighting system. For convenience of explanation, similar constituent elements are identified by using the reference numerals used in FIGS. The service panel 202 communicates with the switch 204 via the power distribution line 203.

  The switch 204 communicates with the lighting fixture 206. A controllable adapter 350 is attached between the lighting fixture 206 and the light bulb 302. For example, the controllable adapter 350 may have a male portion that engages the lighting fixture 206 and a female portion that engages the bulb 302. Neither switch 204 nor light fixture 206 need to be replaced. In addition, a standard light bulb such as a light bulb 302 may be used.

  FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable light bulb 400. The controllable light bulb 400 can be used as the controllable light bulb 208 shown in FIG. 2, but includes a light emitting element 402, a controller 404, and an electronic switch 406. The light emitting element 402 may have a filament similar to that of a halogen bulb or an incandescent bulb. The light emitting element 402 may further include a fluorescent bulb and / or a small fluorescent bulb, and may have a built-in ballast.

  The light emitting element 402 may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light emitting element 402 and / or other components of the controllable bulb 400 may be housed within a translucent housing 408. The housing 408 may be airtight and formed of a material such as glass and / or plastic. The controller 404 may exchange power via first and second supply lines or conductors.

  For example, the first and second supply lines provide power and ground, first and second line voltages (similar to a three-phase system), and / or other suitable power supply and / or reference potentials As good as According to various embodiments, the controllable bulb 400 includes a conductive male thread that communicates with one of the first and second supply lines and a conduction that communicates with the other of the first and second supply lines. And a sex end.

  The controller 404 generates a control signal for the electronic switch 406, as described in more detail below. In response to the control signal, the electronic switch 406 selectively passes the current from the first supply line to the light emitting element 402. Instead of this, the electronic switch 406 may be disposed on the opposite side of the light emitting element 402 to selectively pass a current through the second supply line. According to various embodiments, the electronic switch 406 may include a power transistor, triac, silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) or other suitable device.

  The electronic switch 406 may have a dimming function. For example, in response to the control signal, the electronic switch 406 may perform voltage reduction, waveform change, and / or frequency change on the power supplied to the light emitting element. The electronic switch 406 may include a switching circuit for switching off during a portion of each cycle of the AC power signal to achieve a dimming function. The electronic switch 406 may have a rectifier to generate DC power and may have a DC / DC converter to reduce the voltage. The electronic switch 406 may include a waveform shaping module that changes the waveform of the AC power signal to achieve a dimming function.

  The control signal from the controller 404 may include a digital signal that transitions from HIGH to LOW or from LOW to HIGH to instruct the electronic switch not to flow current into the light emitting element 402. The control signal may include an analog signal corresponding to the light control amount to be realized by the electronic switch 406. The analog signal may change from one of the digital HIGH voltage and the digital LOW voltage to the other of the digital HIGH voltage and the digital LOW voltage. One of the extreme values of the analog signal may correspond to the light emitting element 402 being turned off, and the other extreme value may correspond to the light emitting element 402 being fully turned on.

  FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of an adapter 450 that can be controlled. The controllable adapter 450 may be utilized as the controllable adapter 350 of FIG. 5, but may include a controller 452 and an electronic switch 454. The controller 452 communicates with the first and second supply lines. The controller 452 gives a control signal to the electronic switch 454. The electronic switch 454 selectively cuts off the first supply line according to the control signal. Signals on the first supply line and / or the second supply line to be switched are output from a controllable adapter 450 to a light emitting element (not shown).

  FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a controllable fixture 500. The controllable fixture 500 may be utilized as the controllable lighting fixture 300 shown in FIG. 4 but includes a controller 502 and an electronic switch 504. The controller 502 may receive power from the first and second supply lines. The controller 502 may communicate with the second supply line.

  The controller 502 generates a control signal that is output to the electronic switch 504. In response to the control signal, the electronic switch 504 selectively cuts off the current flowing through the first supply line. The first and / or second supply lines are selectively connected to a light bulb (not shown) by a controllable fixture 500.

  FIGS. 9-18 illustrate an example of a controller that is the controller used in the controllable bulb 400, controllable adapter 450, and controllable fixture 500 illustrated in FIGS. 6-8. FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the controller 550. The controller 550 includes a timer 552. The timer 552 receives power via the first and second supply lines. The timer 552 may have an internal power supply (not shown) that converts the voltage from the first and second supply lines into a voltage suitable for operating the digital logic.

  The timer 552 may operate upon receiving power, for example, when a manual light switch is controlled to turn on. During operation, the timer 552 asserts a first control signal that instructs the electronic switch to remain closed (conducted). The light controlled by the electronic switch remains on. When timer 552 reaches a predetermined timer value, it asserts a second control signal indicating that the electronic switch should be open. As a result, the corresponding light is controlled off. The timer 552 can be reset by temporarily turning off the power, for example, by turning the manual light switch off and then back on.

  FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of another controller 600. The controller 600 comprises a power line carrier receiver 602 that receives power and control signals via first and second supply lines. In response to the received control signal, the power line carrier receiver 602 selectively outputs a control signal for opening and closing the electronic switch.

  The received control signals may include a turn-on signal and a turn-off signal corresponding to the closed output control signal and the open output control signal for the electronic switch, respectively. In order to execute communication with the power line carrier receiver 602, an address may be assigned to the power line carrier receiver 602 at the time of manufacture or attachment. This address may be globally unique so that commands to the controller 600 can be specifically addressed to the controller 600, or may be unique throughout the building.

  The assigned address can be written into the controller 600 package and can be programmed into the power line carrier control module. By doing so, the power line carrier control module can send a specifically addressed command to the controller 600. According to various embodiments, the power line carrier receiver 602 may be responsive to universally addressed commands, causing the power line carrier control module to turn off all lighting in the building, for example. it can.

  FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram showing an example of yet another controller 650. The controller 650 includes a timer 652 and a user input device 654. User input device 654 may include dials, push buttons, and / or other devices. User input device 654 determines a timer value for timer 652.

  The timer 652 asserts the first control signal until the timer value indicated by the user input device 654 is reached. Thereafter, the timer 652 asserts the second control signal. The first and second control signals direct the electronic switch to close and open, respectively. For this reason, the light controlled by the electronic switch is turned on until the second control signal is received.

  User input device 654 may further include a motion sensing module 656. User input device 654 may increase the timer value if movement is sensed before timer 652 reaches the timer value. This increment may be a predetermined amount, or may be determined in relation to the time to reach a previously set timer value. If timer 652 has already reached the timer value, user input device 654 resets timer 652 and turns it on again in response to motion being detected.

  FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of still another controller 700. The controller 700 comprises a power line carrier receiver 702 and a user input device such as a dip switch 704. The power line carrier receiver 702 receives power and control signals via first and second supply lines.

  The power line carrier receiver 702 instructs opening / closing of the electronic switch according to the received control signal. The dip switch 704 determines an address assigned to the power line carrier receiver 702. With such a configuration, each controller 700 can respond to a clearly addressed control signal when a different address is assigned to each controller 700 in the building.

  FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of another controller 750. The controller 750 includes a timer 752 and a programming module 754 that receive power from the first and second supply lines. When the timer 752 reaches a predetermined timer value, the timer 752 asserts a control signal instructing to open the electronic switch.

  The predetermined value for timer 752 may be determined by programming module 754. The programming module 754 may maintain an initial value for the timer 752, but this initial value may be replaced upon initiating a programming operation. To initiate a programming operation, a manual light switch, such as switch 204 of FIG. 2, may be activated in a predetermined manner to initiate a programming mode.

  By way of example only, a switch may be controlled on and off a predetermined number of times within a predetermined period. The light may be flashed, dimmed, or otherwise modulated to indicate that the programming mode has been entered. Upon entering the programming mode, a predetermined timer value may be programmed by controlling on / off of the optical switch in a manner described in more detail later. The programming module 754 may output the timer value to the timer module 752 and store the timer value in the nonvolatile memory.

  FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of another controller 800. The controller 800 includes a power line carrier receiver 802 and a programming module 804. The power line carrier receiver 802 receives power and control signals from the first and second supply lines. The power line carrier receiver 802 monitors the control signal for commands for a particular address.

  Similar to the programming module 754 shown in FIG. 13, the programming module 804 of FIG. 14 may receive data by monitoring the switching of power on the supply line. The programming module 804 may initiate a listen mode according to a predetermined pattern of power switching. In the monitoring mode, the programming module 804 instructs the power line carrier receiver 802 to monitor for address broadcasts on the first and second supply lines via the power line carrier.

  Subsequently, the power line carrier control module may broadcast a message including an address on the first and second supply lines. The power line carrier receiver 802 can use the received address as the address assigned to it, so that subsequently supplied commands can be specifically addressed to the power line carrier receiver 802. This process can be repeated for other controllers in the building, so each controller is assigned a unique address.

  As each controller enters monitor mode, a corresponding unique address may be broadcast. Based on these unique addresses, the controllers can be individually controlled. Instead, an address may be given to the programming module 804 by a predetermined power switching pattern. In this case, the power line carrier receiver 802 can receive this address from the programming module 804 and respond to a receive command for this address.

  FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of still another controller 850. The controller 850 may include a power line carrier transceiver 852 and a non-volatile memory 854. The power line carrier transceiver 852 receives power and control signals and transmits control signals via the first and second supply lines.

  When the power line carrier transceiver 852 receives power for the first time after installation, the power line carrier transceiver 852 may transmit an identification signal via the first and second supply lines. A power line carrier control module (not shown) in communication with the first and second supply lines receives the identification signal and returns a response including the unique address. The power line carrier transceiver 852 may receive this unique address and store it in the non-volatile memory 854. The power line carrier transceiver 852 can then respond to messages with this unique address.

  Alternatively, the power line carrier transceiver 852 may have a unique pre-programmed address. When power line carrier transceiver 852 receives power after installation, it may broadcast this pre-programmed unique address via the first and second supply lines. The power line carrier control module can then communicate with the controller 850 based on this address.

  If multiple controllers, such as controller 850, receive power at the same time, they may attempt to transmit at the same time. Although it is possible not to transmit at the same time by collision detection, there is a case where a unique address is not assigned deterministically. For this reason, the ON control and / or programming of a plurality of controllers may need to be executed sequentially.

  FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of another controller 900. The controller 900 includes a power line carrier transceiver 902 and a programming module 904. The power line carrier transceiver 902 transmits and receives control signals via the first and second supply lines.

  The programming module 904 interprets the presence or absence of power on the supply line as an instruction. The programming module 904 provides commands to the power line carrier transceiver 902 in response to such instructions. The programming module 904 may provide the power line carrier transceiver 902 with an address setting command with a specific address attached. As a result, the power line carrier transceiver 902 can respond to a command for a specific address.

  The programming module 904 may further send an address transmission command to the power line carrier transceiver 902. The address transmitted by the power line carrier transceiver 902 can be received by a power line carrier control module (not shown) communicating with the first and second supply lines. The power line carrier control module can then send a message to the power line carrier transceiver 902 using this address.

  The programming module 904 may further send a monitoring command to the power line carrier transceiver 902. The programming module 904 may then begin using the next address received in the broadcast message. The programming module 904 may also send an address reset command to the power line carrier transceiver 902 to cause the power line carrier transceiver 902 to reset the address to the factory default address.

  Since the power line carrier control module has this factory default setting address, the factory default setting address can be sent to the power line carrier transceiver 902 to perform the initial setting. The power line carrier control module may assign a unique address to the power line carrier transceiver 902 at the end of initialization.

  FIG. 17 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of another controller 950. The controller 950 includes a timer 952 and a read only memory (ROM) 954. ROM 954 may be programmed during manufacture or installation. ROM 954 provides timer values to timer 952 when programmed. The timer 952 may have the same function as the timer module 752 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 18 is a functional block diagram showing an example of yet another controller 1000. The controller includes a power line carrier receiver 1002 and a read only memory (ROM) 1004. ROM 1004 may be programmed during manufacture or installation and provides an address to power line carrier receiver 1002. The power line carrier receiver 1002 responds to a control signal having the address specified by the ROM 1004. When a plurality of controllers such as the controller 1000 are provided in the building, each controller can program its own ROM with a unique address. The power line carrier receiver 1002 may have the same function as the power line carrier receiver 802 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 19 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the programming module 1050. The programming module 1050 includes a power source 1052 that supplies power to each component. The programming module 1050 further comprises a timing module 1056, a microcontroller 1058, and a non-volatile memory 1060.

  Data communication to the programming module 1050 is performed based on the presence or absence of power supply controlled using a switch. If power is not supplied to the programming module 1050, the power source 1052 cannot supply power. Thus, the charge storage module 1054 accumulates electrical energy and provides this electrical energy to the timing module 1056 and the microcontroller 1058 when power is not being supplied. The timing module 1056 may be used to monitor the length of the period during which power is being supplied and the length of the period during which no power is being supplied. Based on this information, the operation of the controllable bulb, fixture or adapter is programmed.

  The microcontroller 1058 receives the power supply time and power stop time from the timing module 1056 and interprets these information as instructions. The charge storage module 1054 accumulates sufficient charge to power the timing module 1056 and the microcontroller 1058 for the longest expected period of time during which power supply is interrupted during programming.

  Since the charge storage module 1054 does not have sufficient charge when the power supply is stopped for a long period of time, such as when the light is manually turned off at night, the timing module 1056 and the microcontroller 1058 stop operating. However, this is not a problem because the timing module 1056 and the microcontroller 1058 need only be active when engaged in programming. The microcontroller 1058 stores the programming information in the non-volatile memory 1060 in case the power supply suspension period is extended.

  FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of another programming module 1100. The programming module 1100 includes a power source 1052 that supplies power to the charge storage module 1102, a timing module 1104, a microcontroller 1106, and a nonvolatile memory 1108.

  The charge storage module 1102 supplies power to the timing module 1104 when power is not supplied from the power source 1052. When the power supply is resumed, the microcontroller 1106 reads the value of the timing module 1104 and stores the read value in the nonvolatile memory 1108. By adopting such a configuration, the microcontroller 1106 can confirm when the power supply has returned even if the power is not supplied to itself.

  The microcontroller stores the timer value in the nonvolatile memory 1108 before the power supply is stopped to determine the length of the power supply stop period. The microcontroller 1106 may store the timer value periodically while power is being supplied because there may be insufficient time to record the timer value once the power supply is stopped. For this reason, it can be determined that the length of the power supply stop period is generally from the timer value last written in the nonvolatile memory 1108 to the timer value when the power supply is resumed.

  FIG. 21 is an example of a table showing a power supply presence / absence sequence and associated instructions. A programming module, such as programming module 1050 in FIG. 19 or programming module 1100 in FIG. 20, may receive data based on the number of times that power has not been provided (off cycle). This data may be supplied using a manual optical switch.

  When the switch is on (conductive state), the programming module is on cycle. When the switch is off (non-conducting state), the programming module goes off cycle. Using Table 1152, the number of consecutive off cycles of the programming module determines the function that the programming module should perform. The programming module may not count off cycles until a programming start sequence is applied to avoid accidental programming. An example of the programming start sequence is shown in FIG.

  In Table 1152, even in the case of one off cycle, it is reserved to avoid accidental programming. The two off-cycle sequence instructs the programming module to cause the power line carrier transceiver to transmit its identification code. A sequence of three off cycles corresponds to an identification code update instruction. This instruction instructs the power line carrier receiver / transmitter / receiver to use the next identification code received via the power line carrier instead of the current identification code.

  The power line carrier receiver / transmitter / receiver may stop monitoring the replacement identification code when a predetermined time has elapsed. Another command that corresponds to the number of off-cycles is a connection broadcast command. This command causes the power line carrier transceiver to broadcast a message pointing to the power line carrier transceiver. The power line carrier transceiver then monitors the new address sent by the power line carrier control module. The sequence of four off cycles corresponds to an identification code reset command, and the power line carrier receiver is commanded to reset the identification code to the factory set value.

  Table 1154 shows an example of instructions appropriate for the timer. A sequence of one off cycle may be deferred. The sequence of two off cycles may indicate that the timer is set to 5 minutes, and the power of the associated light source is reduced after 5 minutes. A sequence of 3 off cycles may correspond to 10 minutes. Off-cycle 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 sequences are 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 50 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, and 2 hours, respectively. May correspond to

  Table 1160 shows an example of instructions suitable for a power line carrier transceiver and receiver. The sequences shown in Tables 1160 and 1162 are used to provide instructions to the programming module and are similar to Morse code. Instead of counting the number of off cycles, the instruction is determined by the length of time that the switch is controlled to turn on or off. Controlling the switch for a short time corresponds to the first binary state and is indicated by a short dot (dot) in Table 1160. Controlling the switch for a long time corresponds to the second binary state and is indicated by a long dot (dash) in Table 1160.

  The long-time control operation and the sequence of short-time control operations are interpreted as instructions by the programming module. The short time control operation and the long time control operation may correspond directly to a binary number or may be used to directly program an address or period. Instead, as shown in Table 1160, sequences and instructions may be associated with each other.

  The sequence of the short-time control operation, long-time control operation, short-time control operation, and long-time control operation may be reserved for future use. The sequence of long, short, short, and long may correspond to an identification code transmission command. Similarly, the sequence of short, long, long, short may correspond to the identification code update command, and the sequence of long, short, long, short may correspond to the identification code reset command.

  Table 1162 includes sequence-instruction mapping suitable for timers. The sequence of long, long, long, long may be reserved for future use. The sequence of long, long, long, short may correspond to a timer length of 5 minutes. The sequence long, long, short, long may correspond to a timer length of 10 minutes. Other binary sequences may correspond to timer lengths of up to 2 hours in this example.

  Another example of a programming method is periodic sampling. The programming module monitors the power state at arbitrary intervals when programming is initiated. The programming module determines whether power is supplied at an intermediate point in each period. These two power states correspond to two binary numbers. The interval may be 5 seconds, for example. In order to speed up programming, this interval may be shortened, for example, 1 second or 0.5 second. Table 1170 includes an example of a mapping between measured binary numbers and programming module functions.

  The sequence “1010” may be reserved for future use. The sequence “0110” may correspond to an identification code transmission command. The sequences “1001” and “0101” may correspond to an identification code update instruction and an identification code reset instruction. Table 1172 also includes examples of mappings appropriate for timers. The sequence “0000” may be reserved for future use. The sequence “0001” may correspond to a timer value of 5 minutes. The sequence “0010” may correspond to a timer value of 10 minutes. In this manner, the sequence “1001” corresponding to 2 hours is continued.

  The programming sequence may further implement a dimming instruction. For example, the programming sequence may correspond to a plurality of different dimming levels. The dimming level may be set by a certain programming operation and the period may be set by another programming operation. Alternatively, during programming, the manual light switch can be controlled to turn off when the light intensity is gradually increased or decreased to reach a desired level. This light intensity can be restored when the manual light switch is turned back on.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of steps performed by a user when starting programming with a programming module. Beginning at step 1200, the controllable light source has been on for a predetermined period of time, eg, 5 minutes or more. During this period, the charge storage module can store enough charge to power during a programming operation in which the light source is controlled off.

  Proceeding to step 1202, the light source is controlled to be off for a predetermined time, for example, 2 seconds. An allowable error may be recognized such that the time from 1 second to 3 seconds is allowed in consideration of the variation by the user. Proceeding to step 1204, the light source is turned on. After waiting 1 second in step 1206, the process proceeds to step 1208 where the user can begin programming. This is to ensure that programming is not inadvertently initiated by controlling the light source off for 2 seconds at step 1202 and waiting for 1 second at step 1206.

  In step 1208, the user starts programming within a predetermined time, for example, within 10 seconds. If not started within 10 seconds, the programming module assumes that programming was not actually desired. In step 1210, the user repeats turning the light off and back on a predetermined number of times. This is called an off cycle in Tables 1152 and 1154 of FIG. In step 1212, the programming is completed within a predetermined time from the start of programming, for example, within 20 seconds. At this point, the off-cycle count is stopped and the process ends.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the programming module for realizing programming input by the user as shown in FIG. Beginning in step 1300, it is determined whether the light is on. If it is not lit, the process stays at step 1300. If it is lit, the process proceeds to step 1302. In step 1300, when a series of control is started after the first power supply to the circuit is performed, it may be known that the light is turned on.

  In step 1302, the timer is reset, and the timer monitors the time when the light is on. Proceeding to step 1304, it is determined whether the light is off. If the light is off, go to step 1306. If the light is not extinguished, the process stays at step 1304. In step 1306, the timer value is compared with 5 minutes.

  If the timer value is greater than 5 minutes, meaning that the light has been on for at least 5 minutes, go to step 1308. If the timer value is 5 minutes or less, the process returns to step 1300. By providing this waiting period, it is ensured that the charge storage module accumulates the appropriate charge and prevents the programming from starting unintentionally. In step 1308, the timer is reset to monitor the period when the light is off.

  In step 1310, it is determined whether the light is on. If the light is on, then go to step 1312. If the light is not lit, stay at step 1310. In step 1312, the timer value is compared with 2 seconds. If the timer value is approximately equal to 2 seconds, for example, if it is within 1 second before and after 2 seconds, the process proceeds to step 1314. Otherwise, the process returns to step 1302.

  In step 1314, the timer is reset. Proceeding to step 1316, it is determined whether the light is extinguished. If the light is extinguished, the process proceeds to step 1318. If the light is on, the process stays at step 1316. If the timer value is less than 10 seconds and indicates that programming has started within 10 seconds, go to step 1320. If it is 10 seconds or longer, the process returns to step 1300.

  If, in step 1320, the timer value is greater than 1 second, indicating that programming has been started after 1 second, then step 1322 is entered. If it is less than 1 second, the user has not waited for 1 second as requested, and the process returns to step 1300. This one second delay further prevents unintentional programming from starting. In step 1322, a variable called count value is initialized to zero. Proceeding to step 1324, the timer is reset.

  In step 1326, if the light is on, the process proceeds to step 1328. If the light is off, the process proceeds to step 1330. In step 1330, if the timer value is greater than 20 seconds, the programming time has passed. One off cycle has not been completed and the process returns to step 1300. If it is 20 seconds or less, programming time remains, and the process returns to step 1326. In step 1328, the count is incremented and continues to step 1332.

  In step 1332, it is determined whether the light is extinguished. If the light is extinguished, the process proceeds to step 1334, and if the light is lit, the process proceeds to step 1336. In step 1334, if the light is on, the process proceeds to step 1328, and if the light is off, the process proceeds to step 1338. In step 1338, if the timer value exceeds 20 seconds, the process returns to step 1300, and if it is 20 seconds or less, the process returns to step 1334.

  In step 1336, if the timer value exceeds 20 seconds, the process proceeds to step 1340, and if it is 20 seconds or less, the process returns to step 1332 and waits for the light to disappear. In step 1340, the programming module performs an operation based on the count value. The variable count value includes the number of off-cycles at this point, and the corresponding function can be determined using, for example, table 1152 for power line carrier transceiver / receiver or table 1154 for timer. This is the end. Alternatively, the process may return to step 1302 and wait for the programming mode to be started again.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of programming steps corresponding to tables 1160 and 1162 shown in FIG. For convenience of explanation, the same constituent elements are identified by using the reference numbers used in FIG. Similar to FIG. 22, the programming module is activated in steps 1200 to 1208. Proceeding to step 1350, turning the light on and off in a specific order.

  Then, the order is interpreted by looking at a table such as Table 1160 or Table 1162 in FIG. Although described in more detail with reference to FIG. 21, the short and long points correspond to the length of time the light is on or off. Depending on the implementation, an on time or an off time may be used. For example, when using an on-time, the time that the light is turned on for a short time corresponding to the short point, the light is turned on for a long time corresponding to the long point, and the light is turned off is not important. .

  Alternatively, the light can be turned on, switched off for a short time corresponding to the short point, and switched off for a long time corresponding to the long point. Then, the process proceeds to step 1212, and programming is completed within 20 seconds from the start. According to various embodiments, the time allowed for programming may be shorter or longer than 20 seconds. For example, a longer time may be allowed when programming the address directly into the programming module. This is the end.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an example of programming steps corresponding to tables 1170 and 1172 shown in FIG. For convenience of explanation, the same constituent elements are identified by using the reference numbers used in FIG. Similar to FIG. 22, the programming module is activated in steps 1200 to 1208. Proceeding to step 1370, the light is turned on or off at specific intervals. The programming module samples whether power is supplied during each period.

  For example, if the duration is 5 seconds, the 1001 sequence includes controlling the light on for 5 seconds, controlling the light off for 10 seconds, and controlling the light on for 5 seconds. The programming module may sample at an intermediate point in each period over 5 seconds to account for user variation. Proceeding to step 1372, programming may be completed within a predetermined time, eg, within 30 seconds. Then it ends.

  FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an example of another programming method by the user. Beginning at step 1400, turn on for 7 to 8 seconds. In step 1402, the light is turned off. In step 1404, the light turns on again within 5 seconds. By controlling in this order, a program signal is generated, and the program signal is given to the power line carrier receiver or the transceiver.

  When the power line carrier transceiver receives the program signal, the power line carrier transceiver may transmit a message including its own identification code. The message is received by the power line carrier control module and notifies the address of the controller. Instead, the power line carrier receiver or the transmitter / receiver may reset its own identification code to the factory default value according to the program signal.

  Alternatively, the power line carrier transceiver or receiver may monitor an instruction such as an address setting instruction according to the program signal. In this case, the user broadcasts a command via the power line carrier when the power line carrier receiver / transmitter / receiver enters the monitoring mode. Then, once the address is sent to the power line carrier receiver, the power line carrier receiver can then respond to the command identified by that address. And it ends.

  FIG. 27 is a schematic functional diagram showing an example of a programming module that implements the programming operation shown in FIG. The power source 1450 supplies power to the timing module 1452. The timing module 1452 outputs a program signal that is received by the power line carrier transceiver or receiver.

  Timing module 1452 has a first resistor 1454 that includes a first end in communication with power supply 1450 and a second end in communication with a first end of first capacitor 1456. The second end of the first capacitor 1456 communicates with a reference potential such as a ground potential. The first end of the first capacitor 1456 is in communication with the first input of the first comparator 1458.

  The second input of the first comparator 1458 is in communication with the first reference voltage generator 1460, which is powered by the power source 1450. Timing module 1452 includes first and second transistors 1462 and 1464. According to various implementations, the first and second transistors 1462 and 1464 are metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs) having a gate, a source and a drain, although other types of transistors may be utilized. Good.

  The source of the first transistor 1462 is in communication with the power source 1450. The gate of the first transistor 1462 is in communication with the output of the first comparator 1458 and the gate of the second transistor 1464. The first and second ends of the second resistor 1466 communicate with the drain terminals of the first and second transistors 1462 and 1464, respectively.

  The drain of the second transistor 1464 is in communication with the first input of the second comparator 1468 and the first terminal of the second capacitor 1470. The second terminal of the second capacitor 1470 and the source of the second transistor 1464 are in communication with the reference potential. The second input of the second comparator 1468 communicates with the second reference voltage generator 1472, which receives power from the power source 1450.

  The output of second comparator 1468 is in communication with latch 1474. The latch 1474 is actuated by a delay module 1476 that receives power from the power source 1450. First and second comparators 1458 and 1468 and latch 1474 are powered from power source 1450. The output of the latch 1474 functions as a program signal.

  When power is first applied to the timing module 1452, the first capacitor 1456 has no charge, so the first input and output of the first comparator 1458 are at the reference potential. When the output of the first comparator 1458 is low, the second transistor 1464 is controlled to be off and the first transistor 1462 is controlled to be on. Since the first transistor 1462 is on, the second capacitor 1470 is charged based on the second resistor 1466.

  The values of first and second capacitors 1456 and 1470 and first and second resistors 1454 and 1466 are selected such that second capacitor 1470 is fully charged earlier than first capacitor 1456. . When the second capacitor 1470 is fully charged and no power is supplied to the power source 1450, the charge of the second capacitor 1470 is slowly discharged.

  If power supply to power supply 1450 is resumed shortly thereafter, second capacitor 1470 has sufficient charge to increase the output of second comparator 1468. This high output is latched by latch 1474. Latch 1474 is actuated by delay module 1476. The delay module 1476 activates the latch 1474 when the power supplied from the power source 1450 is stabilized in the second comparator 1468.

  The output of latch 1474 remains high until power is removed from the circuit. If power supply to the power source 1450 continues even after the second capacitor 1470 is fully charged, the first capacitor 1456 is finally fully charged. The first reference voltage generator 1460 causes the output of the first comparator 1458 to increase when the first capacitor 1456 is fully charged. Then, the first transistor 1462 is controlled to be off and the second transistor 1464 is controlled to be on. The second transistor 1464 discharges the charge of the second capacitor 1470 in a short time.

  The values of the second resistor 1466 and the second capacitor 1470 may be selected such that the second capacitor 1470 charges in about 6 seconds, and the values of the first resistor 1454 and the first capacitor 1456 are: The first capacitor 1456 may be selected to charge in about 8 seconds. For this reason, the user can turn on the power and control the power off after 6 to 8 seconds.

  Charge remains in the second capacitor 1470 and the programming signal can be set high when power supply is resumed. The second reference voltage generator 1472 determines how much charge remains in the second capacitor 1470 and the output from the second comparator 1468 becomes high. For example, the second reference voltage generator 1472 may be designed to be up to 5 seconds when no power is supplied. The timing module 1452 can be modified to allow for more complex programming procedures. For example, additional comparators and capacitors may be added to track a greater number of on / off operations before the programming signal is generated.

  FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method 1500 for operating a controllable fixture, adapter, and / or bulb. In this manner, the controllable fixture, adapter or bulb enters the programming mode in any suitable manner. The user turns on the light after turning it on for a period of time equal to the desired automatic light-off period. A controllable fixture, adapter or bulb measures and stores this period. The fixture, adapter or light bulb thus controllable is automatically extinguished after the lighting period has been stored.

  Beginning at step 1508, it is determined whether the programming mode is entered. If step 1508 is true, a timer (timer 1) is started in step 1512. In step 1516, it is determined whether the light has been turned off using a switch. If step 1516 is true, the timer (timer 1) is stopped in step 1520. In step 1524, the automatic turn-off time is set to be equal to the value of the timer (timer 1). This is the end.

  FIG. 29 illustrates an example of another method 1550 for operating a controllable fixture, adapter, and / or bulb. In the method 1550, the time until the light is automatically turned off is set based on the interaction with the user. The programmed lighting time may initially be set at the time of manufacture or installation of the controllable fixture, adapter and / or bulb. The initial setting of the programmed time may also be set according to one or more of the methods described above or any other suitable method.

  When the light switch is controlled to turn on, the controllable fixture, adapter, or bulb causes the light emitting element to generate light until the programmed time has elapsed. To shorten the programmed time, the light can be manually switched off before the programmed time has elapsed. The lighting time in this case is the newly programmed time.

  In order not to unintentionally shorten the programmed time, the programmed time is controlled by the light switch being turned off continuously for a short period of time, then on and then controlled off. It may be updated only in cases. Even if the light switch is simply turned off, the programmed time is not changed. According to various embodiments, a minimum programmed time may be defined. If the light is manually turned off within a time shorter than the minimum programmed time, the programmed time is not changed. With this configuration, the user can turn on the light for a short time without affecting the programmed time value.

  To lengthen the programmed time, when the programmed time has elapsed and the light is extinguished, the user turns off the light switch and then turns it on. After this, it remains lit until the user manually turns it off. As a result, the programmed time is increased by the amount of time that was lit after such manual intervention.

  According to various embodiments, the newly programmed time includes the time between when the light is turned off according to the programmed value and when the user manually switches the light switch. If the user has turned off the light for a long time when the light is switched off and on, the user does not want to extend the programmed time and may start a new lighting cycle There is sex. Thus, if an off-on cycle occurs after a predetermined time has elapsed, the programmed time is not changed and is simply lit again. When the programmed time elapses, the light is turned off again.

  In order not to unintentionally increase the programmed time, the control sequence of the optical switch for increasing the programmed time may be a more complicated sequence than off-on. For example, the programmed time may be lengthened if the off-on-off-on and light switches are controlled within a predetermined time after being extinguished according to the programmed value. By way of example only, the predetermined time may be 10 seconds.

  Method 1550 begins at step 1552 to determine if it is lit. If it is lit, the process moves to step 1554. If it is not lit, the process stays at step 1552. In step 1554, the lighting state is maintained, and the process proceeds to step 1556 to reset the first timer (timer 1). When timer 1 reaches the programmed time, it is automatically turned off. Proceeding to step 1558, it is determined whether the light has been turned off using a manual optical switch. If it is turned off using the manual optical switch, the process proceeds to step 1560; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 1562.

  Alternatively, the process may proceed to step 1564 without proceeding to step 1560. Step 1560 implements a more complex programming procedure to reduce the possibility of unintentional programming. Rather than updating the programmed time when the optical switch is controlled off, the programmed time is updated only if the switch is controlled off-on-off within a predetermined T seconds. In step 1560, it is determined whether the switch is turned on and off again within T seconds after the switch is turned off. If it is controlled in this way, the process proceeds to step 1564. If it is not controlled, the process returns to step 1552.

  In step 1564, it is determined whether the value of timer 1 is greater than the minimum allowable value for the programmed value. If it is larger, the process proceeds to step 1566, and if it is less than the minimum allowable value, the process returns to step 1552. Step 1564 is a step of executing another countermeasure against unintentional programming. The programmed time is not updated if the lighting time is less than the minimum allowable value of the programmed value. For this reason, lighting and extinguishing can be performed in a short time without affecting the programmed time.

  For example, the minimum allowable programmed time for a controllable bulb, fixture, or adapter is 10 minutes and may be installed in a work room. The programmed time may be programmed for two hours, which is appropriate for normal work performed in the work room. If the period of time that the user remains lit in the work room is less than 10 minutes (eg, looking for a tool), the programmed time remains at the previously set two hours.

  If this preventive measure is not sought, step 1564 may be omitted and the process proceeds directly to step 1566. According to various implementations, the minimum allowed value for programmed time may be set to zero and step 1564 may be omitted. In step 1566, the value of timer 1 is stored as the newly programmed time. Then, the process returns to step 1552.

  In step 1562, it is determined whether the value of timer 1 is greater than the programmed time. If it is larger, the process proceeds to step 1568, and if it is the following, the process returns to step 1558. In step 1568, the light is automatically turned off, and the process proceeds to step 1570. In step 1570, the second timer (timer 2) is reset and continues to step 1572.

  If the user turns on again within a predetermined response time after being automatically turned off in step 1568, the programmed time may be updated based on the turning on again. For example, the predetermined response time may be set to 1 minute. With this setting, when the light is turned off, the user is given 1 minute before turning it on again, and the additional lighted time is incorporated into the programmed time.

  In step 1572, it is determined whether or not the value of timer 2 is greater than a predetermined response time. If so, the user may turn it on again, but the programmed time is not updated and the process returns to step 1552. If the response time is equal to or shorter than the predetermined response time, the process proceeds to step 1574. In step 1574, it is determined whether or not the light switch is controlled to be turned on. If it is controlled in this way, the process proceeds to Step 1576, and if it is not controlled in this way, the process returns to Step 1572. In step 1576, the light is turned on and the process proceeds to step 1578.

  The method 1550 can be modified to allow more complex programming procedures as a countermeasure to avoid unintentionally lengthening the programmed time. For example, a comparison step may be further inserted between step 1574 and step 1576. In this comparison step, it is determined whether or not the light switch is turned off again and turned on. If so, the process proceeds to step 1578. If not, the process may wait until the switch is controlled to be turned off and return to step 1552.

  In step 1578, it is determined whether or not the switch is controlled to be turned off. If it is controlled off, it moves to step 1580, and if it is not controlled off, it stays in step 1578. In step 1580, the value of timer 1 is stored as the newly programmed time. Then, the process returns to step 1552.

  According to the various implementations described above, the light bulb and / or controllable light bulb may use a threaded connection member, one or more pins received in one or more receptacles, and / or other electromechanical connection members. , An adapter, a fixture, a controllable adapter, and / or a controllable fixture. When a controllable light bulb, adapter, or fixture is extinguished, it can be turned on again by controlling the switch off and back on again.

  30 to 37 are diagrams illustrating another method of controlling lighting and other devices. In some of the implementations described above with reference to FIGS. 2 through 29, the user has toggled a conventional switch in a predetermined pattern to program a controllable bulb, adapter, or fixture. As can be envisioned, the amount of programming data that can be exchanged using such methods is somewhat limited.

  30 to 37, a master controller having a user interface may be used instead of the conventional switch. The master controller may program one or more controllable devices at remote locations. The power supply to the controllable device may be distributed to the master controller via a supply line. The master controller sends control data and / or program data to the controllable device via the supply line.

  By way of example only, a user interface may include a keypad, one or more buttons, and / or other input devices. When the user activates the user interface, the master controller sends control data and / or program data over the supply line using the missing pulse method. In this way, one or more of the controllable devices may be programmed based on one or more control data sets and / or program sets associated with the interface operation.

  The missing pulse method encodes data by excluding selected portions of the power signal period. This will be described below. By using this method, the speed and accuracy of information transmission can be improved compared to the case where the switch is manually toggled. For this reason, more complicated programming operations can be performed without being influenced by the dexterity of the user's hand. For example, the device may be programmed such that it is controlled to the maximum intensity on state, with the intensity reduced by half after 2 hours and turned off after 4 hours.

  Further, the master controller may communicate with a plurality of controllable devices and may adjust the control of these plurality of controllable devices in response to a user input. Also, some of the controllable devices associated with the master controller may be programmed differently than other controllable devices when a user interface element, eg, a button, is activated by the user. Good.

  According to the present disclosure, a plurality of controllable devices can be controlled based on a single input. By way of example only, such a configuration allows for scene lighting control including multiple controllable lights and / or control of other devices such as motorized awnings. In addition, a plurality of controllable devices may be programmed using a single button so that the corresponding lighting duration and intensity are at various levels. The one button may further select a predetermined program that affects this process in a controllable device.

  As described below, a computer may be interfaced to the master controller and / or controllable device to store and modify programming information and / or to direct the operation of the master controller. The computer can access the interface via a web page. The user can use the interface to create a custom program or download the custom program to the master controller.

  An example of a system is briefly introduced in FIGS. 30, 30A and 30B. FIGS. 31A through 31D describe in more detail an example of missing pulse encoding used to communicate data to a controllable device. 32 to 35B show an example of the components of the master controller. 36A to 37 show an example of components of a controllable device. FIG. 38 shows an example of an installation programmer used to store initial programming data in a controllable device.

  FIG. 30 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a programmable load control system. The master controller 1600-1 is a wall-mounted button assembly, for example, and receives power from the service panel 202. Master controller 1600-1 generates programming data and sends it to one or more controllable devices, eg, controllable devices 1602-1 and 1602-2. Master controller 1600-1 may encode programming data using missing pulses, as described below.

  The controllable device 1602-1 controls the load 1604 based on the programming data. The load 1604 may be configured integrally with the controllable device 1602-1 as shown in FIG. 30, or may be formed separately. By way of example only, controllable device 1602-1 may have a light fixture, bulb socket adapter, or bulb, and load 1604 may have a bulb or light emitting element.

  The master controller 1600-1 can transfer data at a higher speed than when the human toggles the switch by using the missing pulse. For this reason, a more complex control operation is possible than when no missing pulse is used. Although it is only an example, by using the missing pulse method, more specific control data, for example, the load 1604 is turned on at the maximum intensity, the intensity is decreased after x minutes, and the intensity is further decreased after y minutes Finally, after z minutes, a command to control the load 1604 off can be transmitted.

  Master controller 1600-1 includes missing pulse transmitter 1612 that receives power from service panel 202. Missing pulse transmitter 1612 provides power to the other components of master controller 1600-1. Missing pulse transmitter 1612 transmits a power signal to controllable device 1602-1 and encodes control data for controllable device 1602-1 by removing pulses from the power signal.

  Missing pulse transmitter 1612 is controlled by control module 1614. The control module 1614 may communicate with any component, such as a user interface 1610, a wireless interface 1616, a computer interface 1617, a parameter control module 1618, and / or a power line interface 1620. The user interface 1610 allows a user to interact with the master controller 1600-1 by, for example, pressing a button, described in more detail below.

  Master controller 1600-1 may receive user input via wireless interface 1616 and / or power line interface 1620 instead of or in addition to such a configuration. The wireless interface 1616 may communicate with other master controllers, such as the master controller 1600-2, by a network access point and / or personal computer. The wireless interface 1616 may further communicate with portable devices such as portable devices 1608-1 and 1608-2. The wireless interface uses a wireless local area network (WLAN) standard, such as IEEE 802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11h, 802.11n, 802.16, or 802.20. Well, it may support a wireless personal area network (WPAN) standard such as IEEE 802.15.1.

  The power line interface 1620 may communicate with other master controllers such as the master controller 1600-2 and power line carrier control modules such as power line carrier control modules 1606-1 and 1606-2. The power line interface 1620 communicates via a supply line that is in communication with the service panel 202. The power line carrier control module 1606-2, the master controller 1600-2, and another controllable device 1602-3 may be located in another branch circuit of the service panel 202.

  The parameter control module 1618 stores data such as load characteristics used by the control module 1614, user preferences, and setting contents prepared in advance. This data may include the address of the controllable device when the same master controller controls a plurality of controllable devices. This data may further identify which of the controllable devices constitute part of the scene and how much intensity should be set in the scene.

  The parameter control module 1618 may be configured when the master controller 1600-1 is installed, may be updated during use of the master controller 1600-1, and / or may be hard-coded at the time of manufacture. The parameter control module 1618 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 33A to 33C. Parameter control module 1618 may further be programmed by computer interface 1617.

  The computer interface 1617 may include a serial interface such as RS-232 or Universal Serial Bus (USB) and / or a network interface such as IEEE 802.3. By utilizing the computer interface 1617, the user or installer may update the contents of the parameter control module 1618. For example, a user may access a website to create a custom program.

  Further, the computer interface 1617 can be utilized to directly control the control module 1614. With such a configuration, the user can control a controllable device and / or select a scene from a computer. If the computer is connected to the Internet, commands for controlling the control module 1614 may be sent to the computer from a remote location (eg, the user's workplace).

  Master controller 1600-1 may include a receiver / current detector 1622 that communicates with control module 1614. The receiver / current detector 1622 may sense the current consumed by downstream devices such as controllable devices 1602-1 and 1602-2. The controllable device 1602-1 can send data back to the master controller 1600-1 by interrupting current consumption during periods when missing pulses are not being transmitted. The receiver / current detector 1622 decodes such missing current pulses as data sent to the master controller 1600-1.

  The power line carrier control module 1606-1 has a power line interface 1624 that communicates with other devices by signals superimposed on the power signal from the service panel 202. The power line carrier control module 1606-1 may have a user interface 1626 and / or a wireless interface 1628 in communication with the power line interface 1624.

  The power line interface 1624 communicates user input data with the master controller 1600-1 and / or the master controller 1600-2. User input data may be received from user interface 1626 and / or wireless interface 1628. Wireless interface 1628 receives user input data from other input devices such as portable devices 1608-1 and 1608-2.

  The portable device 1608-1 may include a smartphone, a notebook computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a remote controller, and the like. The portable device 1608-1 has a wireless interface 1630 and a user interface 1632. The wireless interface 1630 wirelessly transmits data received from the user via the user interface 1632. The wireless interface 1630 may further function as a repeater for wireless signals from devices outside the scope of the master controller 1600-1, eg, portable device 1608-2.

  The controllable device 1602-1 includes a switch 1640, a device control module 1642, and a missing pulse receiver 1644. Switch 1640 receives the power signal from missing pulse transmitter 1612 of master controller 1600-1. The switch 1640 is controlled by the device control module 1642. Device control module 1642 is set by missing pulse receiver 1644.

  The device control module 1642 may further communicate with a parameter control module 1646 that provides parameters that are set during installation. According to various implementations, the parameter control module 1646 may further be updated by the missing pulse receiver 1644 during normal operation. The parameter control module 1646 may have data as stored in the parameter control module 1618 of the master controller 1600-1. Further, the parameter control module 1646 may be programmed and / or updated via a computer interface 1648 similar to the computer interface 1617.

  30A and 30B are diagrams illustrating various methods of connecting a master controller and a controllable device. 30A and 30B, one of the master controllers 1600 is shown in a simplified manner. 30A, the missing pulse transmitter 1612 communicates directly with each controllable device 1602-A1, 1602-A2,..., And 1602-AX.

  According to FIG. 30B, missing pulse transmitter 1612 communicates with one or more nodes 1647. Controllable devices 1602-B1, 1602-B2,..., And 1602-BX each communicate directly or indirectly (via another node: this example not shown) with node 1647. It can be envisaged that a hybrid master controller with both a direct connection and a connection through one or more nodes may be used in connection with FIGS. 30A and 30B. Missing pulse transmitter 1612 generates addressing data in addition to control data sent to controllable device 1602.

  The address designation data is data for selecting a controllable device associated with the control data being transmitted. An advantage of the configuration illustrated in FIG. 30B is that the connection to the master controller 1600 is simple. The master controller 1600 may be arranged in a connection box. It may be difficult to individually connect all power supplies for each controllable device 1602 to the master controller 1600 in the same junction box. Furthermore, by performing addressing, a plurality of controllable devices can be connected and simultaneously controlled.

  FIG. 31A is a diagram illustrating missing pulse transmission. The power is typically carried by a sinusoidal voltage waveform 1700 characterized as a frequency. As an example, the frequency may be about 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Each period of the voltage waveform 1700 includes a positive sine wave portion and a negative sine wave portion. The positive sine wave portion and the negative sine wave portion are also referred to as pulses, but when a part is discarded, the downstream device can interpret such a missing pulse as data.

  For example, the missing pulse is illustrated as 1702. The voltage waveform 1700 does not draw a sine wave 1703 indicated by a dotted line, but maintains a flat state in the missing pulse 1702. Missing pulse 1702 is illustrated for illustrative purposes only, with half of the period missing at the zero crossing point starting and ending. Missing pulses may appear at any part of the voltage waveform 1700 during any period, and do not necessarily start or end at the zero crossing point. However, sending a missing pulse between zero-cross points can reduce the burden on the switch used to encode the missing pulse.

  The missing pulse 1702 is followed by two complete pulses and a second missing pulse 1704 appears. The second missing pulse 1704 is followed by two complete pulses, and a third missing pulse 1706 appears. The sequence in which the complete pulse and missing pulse appear can be interpreted as data. The voltage waveform 1700 may be centered around zero volts. For this reason, the voltage may be zero volts during the missing pulse period. In order to minimize high frequency noise in the voltage waveform 1700, a filter may be applied to round off the corners of the missing pulse (indicated by reference numbers 1710-1 and 1710-2).

  Removing the pulse reduces the power available to downstream devices. By way of example only, if 120 pulses per second are included in the voltage waveform 1700 and 6 pulses are removed per second, the average power lost is 6/120, or 5%. Only. The data rate is only a few symbols per second, but it is still higher than the data rate that can be achieved with sufficient reliability when a human toggles the wall switch, and the available power is reduced only slightly. .

  Such data rates can be exploited effectively by prioritizing data and transmitting higher priority data before transmitting lower priority data to controllable device 1602-1. Can do. For example, data with high priority may have the strength when controlling the load on. Information such as the timing of future dimming events or off-control events may be information with low priority. For example, if the controllable device 1602-1 is instructed to control on at full intensity for 30 minutes and reduce the intensity by 25% at a subsequent time point, eg, after 30 minutes, the maximum intensity on control command Only sent immediately. There is a 30-minute allowance for transmitting information regarding the dimming ratio and timing.

  The transferred data may optionally include data integrity metrics such as parity bits and / or CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) values. FIG. 31B to FIG. 31D further show implementation examples of missing pulses. FIG. 31B shows a missing pulse 1712 where the upper portion of the positive sine wave portion is limited to any voltage greater than zero. Similarly, the negative sine wave portion may be limited to any voltage less than zero to form a missing pulse.

  FIG. 31C shows a missing pulse 1714 with less than half of the positive sine wave portion removed. As for a portion to be removed from the positive side or negative side sine wave portion, the voltage may be returned to zero as shown in FIG. 31C or may be returned to a non-zero voltage. FIG. 31D shows a missing pulse 1716 with portions of both the positive and negative sine wave portions removed. In FIG. 31D, it is shown that half of each of the positive side or negative side sine wave parts is removed, but even if the part removed from the positive side or negative side sine wave parts is more than half, It may be good or small.

  The receiver may generate a reference sine wave to determine whether a pulse is missing. The receiver determines that a pulse is missing if the difference between the received power signal and the reference sine wave is greater than any percentage or greater than any absolute amount over a given period. It's okay. The receiver may construct one or more reference points for determining whether or not a pulse is missing in order to save time and effort for generating a reference sine wave.

  For example, the reference point 1718-1 may be defined for the positive sine wave portion shown in FIG. 31A. The reference point 1718-1 includes amplitude information and may include time information. The time information may specify at which point in time in the voltage waveform 1700 the amplitude is measured. For example, if each arbitrary period is a period starting at a positive zero crossing point, such as point 1710-1, reference point 1718-1 is to measure at 25% of the arbitrary period. May be specified.

  The point of 25% of such an arbitrary period corresponds to the middle of the positive sine wave portion. A complete pulse is seen when the input power signal exceeds the voltage at reference point 1718-1 at 25%. Like the missing pulse 1702, a missing pulse is detected when the input power signal is below the voltage at reference point 1718-1 at 25%.

  The receiver may measure at what point in time the voltage waveform 1700 exceeds the voltage at reference point 1718-1. In this case, the reference point 1718-1 need not include time information. If it is a complete pulse, the voltage waveform 1700 crosses the reference point 1718-1 near the 25% time point (eg, between 20% and 30%). For the positive missing pulse 1702 shown in FIG. 31A, the voltage waveform 1700 does not exceed the reference point 1718-1 throughout the missing pulse period. Similar reference points can be defined for negative missing pulses such as second missing pulse 1704.

  For the missing pulse 1712 shown in FIG. 31B, a reference point 1718-2 may be set similarly to the reference point 1718-1. In the example of FIG. 31B, the reference point 1718-2 must be more accurately defined because the difference between the full pulse voltage and the missing pulse voltage is small. Detection of such missing pulses is likely to be affected by errors due to noise.

  Reference points 1718-3 and 1718-4 may be defined for missing pulses 1714 and 1716 shown in FIGS. 31C and 31D. Reference points 1718-3 and 1718-4 contain timing information because a portion of the missing pulse exceeds the voltage at reference points 1718-3 and 1718-4. Reference points 1718-3 and 1718-4 are thus evaluated in a particular region of the power signal.

  Reference point 1718-3 may indicate comparing the voltage at reference point 1718-3 with the value measured in the second portion by dividing any period into four. Here, the arbitrary period is defined as a period starting from the zero cross point 1710-1 toward the positive side. Reference point 1718-4 may indicate comparing the voltage at reference point 1718-4 with a value measured in the fourth portion of an arbitrary period divided into four.

  FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of the user interface 1720. The user interface 1720 may include one or more buttons. For example, buttons 1722-1, 1722-2, 1722-3, and 1722-4 (collectively referred to as buttons 1722) may be provided. The user can select a predetermined load characteristic by pressing one of the buttons 1722. The corresponding region of the button 1722 and / or the user interface 1720 may include an index that describes the function associated with each button 1722.

  By way of example only, button 1722-1 may be toggled between full on and off. Button 1722-2 may select a control that is fully on for 30 minutes, followed by half on for 15 minutes, and off. Button 1722-3 may select a control of a quarter on state for 3 hours followed by an off state. Button 1722-4 may select the order of a fully on state for 2 hours followed by a quarter on state. The predetermined characteristics of the button 1722 may be changed by the user via the user interface 1720, or may be changed using a parameter control module as described in more detail below. The user interface 1720 may further comprise interface elements such as a keypad, LCD display, knobs, switches, and / or levers.

  33A to 33C are functional block diagrams illustrating an example of the parameter control module. The parameter control module allows the user to change the function associated with the button. According to FIG. 33A, the parameter control module 1750 includes a dip switch 1752. The dip switch 1752 may select the length of time and / or the strength to operate the load. For example, the dip switch 1752 may select one or more of M intensities and one or more of N periods.

  According to FIG. 33B, the parameter control module 1760 includes one or more potentiometers 1762. The potentiometer 1762 allows fine adjustment of the operation period and the operation intensity of the load. For example, one or more of potentiometers 1762 may determine the intensity between 0% and 100%, and one or more of potentiometers 1762 may determine the time between 0 minutes and a predetermined upper limit. .

  According to FIG. 33C, the parameter control module 1770 includes a non-volatile storage 1772. Non-volatile storage 1772 may be programmed at the time of installation or may be updated by a user interface or computer control. The parameter control module 1750 may be provided in the master controller 1600-1, the controllable device 1602-1, or a remote device.

  The parameter control module 1750 may include preset load operating characteristics selected by the user. Non-volatile storage 1772 may include removable storage such as a flash memory card. The user can remove the non-volatile storage 1772 from the parameter control module 1770 and update the contents using a widely distributed memory card computer interface.

  34A and 35A are diagrams showing possible wiring structures. According to FIG. 34A, there is only one supply line available to the master controller. According to FIG. 35A, there are two available supply lines for the master controller. FIG. 34B and FIG. 35B are diagrams showing an implementation example of a missing pulse transmitter corresponding to these two wiring structures.

  Referring to FIG. 34A, the missing pulse transmitter 1802 receives the first supply line. Missing pulse transmitter 1802 connects the first supply line to controllable device 1602-1 with the exception of missing pulses. Controllable device 1602-1 receives a second supply line. According to FIG. 34B, the missing pulse transmitter 1802 includes a switch 1804, a control module 1806, and a charge storage module 1808. The switch 1804 receives the first supply line and selectively outputs power to the controllable device 1602-1.

  Switch 1804 may include a triac or any other suitable device. The charge storage module 1808 stores charges from the first supply line. The charge storage module 1808 supplies power to the control module 1806 and also supplies power to the other components of the master controller 1600-1 outside the missing pulse transmitter 1802. The charge storage module 1808 may receive charge when the switch 1804 is opened and no current from the first supply line flows through the switch 1804.

  The switch 1804 may intermittently interrupt current to force charge into the charge storage module 1808 to maintain a constant charge level in the charge storage module 1808. For this reason, the switch 1804 may periodically exclude pulses, such as once per second. Such missing pulses that are regularly arranged may further function as a synchronization pulse for downstream components. The control module 1806 receives a first supply line to synchronize the missing pulse and the input power signal.

  Referring to FIG. 35A, the missing pulse transmitter 1820 receives power from the first and second supply lines. Missing pulse transmitter 1820 selectively provides power to controllable device 1602-1 via first and second conductors. Missing pulse transmitter 1820 may send missing pulses to controllable device 1602-1 via one or both of the conductors.

  According to FIG. 35B, the missing pulse transmitter 1820 includes a switch 1822 and a control module 1824. Switch 1822 receives one of the first and second supply lines. Switch 1822 selectively provides power from the supply line to controllable device 1602-1. The control module 1824 receives power from the first and second supply lines and controls the operation of the switch 1822. Power is provided to the other components of the master controller 1600-1 via connections to the first and second supply lines within the missing pulse transmitter 1820.

  FIG. 36A and FIG. 36B are functional block diagrams illustrating an example of a controllable device. According to FIG. 36A, controllable device 1900 includes missing pulse receiver 1644, device control module 1642, load 1604, and dimming module 1902. By way of example only, two connections are shown between the missing pulse receiver and the device control module 1642.

  Each of the two connections may carry power and control data. The device control module 1642 controls the operation of the dimming module 1902. The dimming module 1902 reduces the average power transmitted to the load 1604. Although not shown in FIG. 36A, a controllable device 1900 may include a parameter control module 1646 and / or a computer interface 1648, as shown in FIG.

  According to FIG. 36B, the controllable device 1920 comprises a missing pulse transceiver 1922, a device control module 1642, an interruptible dimming module 1924, and a load 1604. The interruptable dimming module 1924 can control off each pulse of the input voltage waveform, such as the voltage waveform 1700 of FIGS. 31A to 31D. This function is controlled by the missing pulse transceiver 1922.

  Missing pulse transceiver 1922 provides data to master controller 1600-1 by instructing dimming module 1924 to be interrupted to at least partially control a particular pulse of voltage waveform 1700 to be turned off. Can send. This behavior can be observed as a decrease in current in pulses interrupted by the interruptable dimming module 1924 by the receiver / current detector 1622 of the master controller 1600-1. Thus, bidirectional communication is possible between the controllable device 1920 and the master controller 1600-1.

  FIG. 37 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the device control module 1642. The device control module 1642 includes a power source 1950 that supplies power to the components of the device control module 1642. The power source 1950 may have a regulated DC power source and may be implemented within the missing pulse receiver 1644 or missing pulse transceiver 1922.

  Device control module 1642 further receives control data from missing pulse receiver 1644 or missing pulse transceiver 1922. This control data is sent to the timer value storage module 1952 and the level value storage module 1954. The timer value storage module 1952 stores a value used by the timer 1956.

  According to various implementations, the timer 1956 begins to operate when the load 1604 is first turned on. When the timer 1956 reaches the first time specified by the timer value storage module 1952, the timer 1956 sends an increment signal to the level value storage module 1954. This increment signal indicates that the level value storage module 1954 should select the next level value.

  The level value is provided from the level value storage module 1954 to the level control module 1958. The level control module 1958 then operates the switch 1640, the dimming module 1902, or the dimmable module 1924 that can be interrupted. Level control module 1958 may select either on and off, or may select various intensity levels that are set between on and off. The timer value storage module 1952 and the level value storage module 1954 may include hard-coded setting contents or pre-programmed setting contents selected by the input control signal. Further, the time value data and the level value data may be received via the input control signal.

  The amount of information stored in the timer value storage module 1952 and the level value storage module 1954 indicates how complex the load control characteristic is. According to various implementations, the level value storage module 1954 includes a storage location for each storage location in the timer value storage module 1952. As described above, each period tracked by the timer 1956 corresponds to a level stored in the level value storage module 1954.

  FIG. 38 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the attachment programmer 2002. Installation programmer 2002 may be utilized to program values into controllable device 1602 prior to installation of controllable device 1602. The mounting programmer 2002 can be utilized to program a controllable device that receives data based on the missing pulse without requiring the installation of an optical switch that can transmit the missing pulse. The mounting programmer 2002 may further be utilized to program a controllable device that can be programmed by toggling the optical switch.

  For example, if the controllable device 1602 comprises a light bulb, the installation programmer 2002 may store parameters in the light bulb before fitting the light bulb into the socket. Parameters programmed into the controllable device 1602 may include time and intensity. For example, controllable device 1602 may be programmed to turn on for 1 hour at 100% intensity, move to 50% intensity, wait for 1 hour, and turn off. Control in this order may be initiated when power is supplied from a standard optical switch when a controllable device 1602 is attached. When the controllable device 1602 is turned off after 2 hours, the light switch may be toggled to repeat the lighting control sequence described above.

  As another example, a parameter set for a controllable device attached to a kitchen is controlled to be on for 2 hours at 100% intensity and then on for 1 hour at a lower intensity such as 40%. Control may be included. As another example, a parameter set when installed in a bathroom may be on for 15 minutes at 100% intensity and then on for 15 minutes at a lower intensity such as 40%. Subsequent control may be included.

  The attachment programmer 2002 may program a plurality of parameter sets into the controllable device 1602. These parameter sets may be selected by toggling the associated optical switch in a predetermined pattern when the controllable device 1602 is attached. For example, the first parameter set may be selected by supplying power to the controllable device 1602 by turning on the optical switch. The second parameter set may be selected by controlling the optical switch to turn on, off, and immediately back on. The third parameter set may be selected by controlling the optical switch on, off, on, off, and on at high speed. Other toggle methods have already been described in more detail, and parameter sets may be selected using these methods.

  In addition to programming the controllable device 1602, the installation programmer 2002 may be able to read the current programming state of the controllable device 1602. This information may be displayed to the user or may be stored in the mounting programmer 2002. Once stored, the programming state can be utilized to program other controllable devices. For example, if the controllable device 1602 fails, a new controllable device can be purchased and programmed to the same programming state.

  The mounting programmer 2002 includes a missing pulse transmitter 2004. Missing pulse transmitter 2004 receives power from one or more supply lines and provides power to controllable device 1602. As described above, the missing pulse transmitter 2004 can transmit data to the controllable device 1602 by temporarily interrupting or reducing the flow of power to the controllable device 1602. A power supply 2006 receives power from a supply line and supplies power to components of the mounting programmer 2002.

  Missing pulse transmitter 2004 may be able to interrupt power to controllable device 1602 for a period longer than one period of the power supply signal. In this way, the missing pulse transmitter 2004 can be utilized to generate an on-off pattern similar to the on-off pattern generated by the user toggling the optical switch. With this configuration, the installation programmer 2002 programs a controllable device comprising programming modules such as the programming module 754 of FIG. 13, the programming module 804 of FIG. 14, and the programming module 904 of FIG. be able to.

  The attachment programmer 2002 includes a control module 2010. The control module 2010 sends data to the missing pulse transmitter 2004 which encodes the data for the power signal sent to the controllable device 1602. The control module 2010 determines data to be sent to the controllable device 1602 based on user input. User input may be received from the user input module 2014.

  By way of example only, the user input module 2014 may have one button. This button may be pressed when the controllable device 1602 is connected to the mounting programmer 2002. According to various other implementations, the user input module 2014 may have a plurality of buttons, each button corresponding to a parameter set stored on the controllable device 1602. The user input module 2014 may be utilized to select from the non-volatile memory 2022 a parameter set that is programmed into the controllable device 1602.

  User input module 2014 may further allow the user to specify values such as intensity and time that are programmed into controllable device 1602. A value input by the user or a value stored in the nonvolatile memory 2022 may be displayed on the display 2018. According to various implementations, the computer interface 2026 may communicate with a computer, handheld device, etc. The control module 2010 may receive parameters stored on the controllable device 1602 via the computer interface 2026.

  Values received from computer interface 2026 and user input module 2014 may be stored in non-volatile memory 2022 for later use. The mounting programmer 2002 may further comprise a receiver / current detector 2030. The receiver / current detector 2030 receives a power signal sent from the missing pulse transmitter 2004 to the controllable device 1602.

  Controllable device 1602 may communicate information to mounting programmer 2002 by interrupting power consumption of controllable device 1602. The state where the power consumption is interrupted in this way is detected by the receiver / current detector 2030. The controllable device 1602 may provide the mounting programmer 2002 with a currently stored parameter set, for example. The control module 2010 may store this parameter set in the non-volatile memory 2022 for later use.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description that the broad teachings of the disclosure can be implemented in a variety of forms. For this reason, since those skilled in the art can conceive of other modified examples based on the attached drawings, specification, and claims, the present disclosure includes specific examples, but the true scope of the present disclosure is It should not be limited to these specific examples.

Claims (25)

A controllable light bulb,
An electrical connection of the controllable bulb for receiving a power signal;
Power is supplied by the power signal received via the electrical connection, determines a control parameter based on on / off modulation of the power signal, and controls based on the control parameter while the power signal is on A controllable bulb receiver module for generating a signal; and
An electronic switch of the controllable bulb that outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal;
A semi-transparent housing of the controllable bulb;
A controllable light bulb comprising: a light-emitting element of the controllable light bulb housed in the translucent housing and receiving the output power signal. The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the on / off modulation includes a count of one of the presence of the power signal and the absence of the power signal over a predetermined time. The on / off modulation includes binary data acquired at periodic sampling intervals;
The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein a first binary state corresponds to the presence of the power signal and a second binary state corresponds to the absence of the power signal. The on / off modulation includes binary data determined by one period of the presence of the power signal and the absence of the power signal;
The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the first binary state corresponds to a period shorter than a predetermined length, and the second binary state corresponds to a period longer than the predetermined length. The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the receiver module determines the control parameter after the on / off modulation indicates a programming start sequence. The controllable light bulb according to claim 5, wherein the programming start sequence includes a predetermined on / off sequence executed within a predetermined time. The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein when the electronic switch receives the control signal, the electronic switch reduces the output power signal to substantially zero. The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the electronic switch receives the control signal and reduces the output power signal to a dimming value. The receiver module has a power line carrier receiver module;
The power line carrier receiver module receives data based on the power signal, is associated with a first address, and accepts a command addressed to one of the first address and a global address And
The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the control parameter includes the first address, and the receiver module generates the control signal based on the data. The controllable light bulb according to claim 9, wherein the power line carrier receiver module performs an operation based on the on / off modulation. The controllable light bulb according to claim 10, wherein the operation is at least one of an address reset operation, an address update operation, a connection broadcast operation, and an address transmission operation. The receiver module further comprises a timing module that starts counting after the power signal is received;
The control parameter includes a predetermined value,
The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the receiver module generates the control signal when the timing module reaches the predetermined value. The controllable light bulb according to claim 12, wherein the receiver module sets the predetermined value based on a length of a period during which the power signal is on after a programming mode is started. The controllable light bulb according to claim 12, wherein the receiver module reduces the predetermined value when the power signal is controlled to be turned off before the timer module reaches the predetermined value. 15. The receiver module increases the predetermined value when the power signal is controlled in the order of off-on within a predetermined period after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Controllable light bulb as described. The receiver module decreases the predetermined value when the power signal is controlled in the order of off-on-off within a predetermined period before the timer module reaches the predetermined value. 12. A controllable light bulb as described in item 12. The receiver module increases the predetermined value when the power signal is controlled in the order of off-on-off-on within a predetermined period after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. 17. A controllable light bulb as claimed in claim 16. The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the electrical connection portion has a conductive male screw portion and a conductive end portion. The controllable light bulb according to claim 1, wherein the light emitting element has a metal filament. A controllable light bulb adapter,
A first electrical connection of the controllable bulb adapter that receives a power signal from a lighting fixture;
Power is supplied by the power signal received via the first electrical connection, determines a control parameter based on on / off modulation of the power signal, and sets the control parameter while the power signal is on. A controllable bulb adapter receiver module that selectively generates a control signal based thereon;
An electronic switch of the controllable light bulb adapter that outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal;
A controllable light bulb adapter comprising: a second electrical connection of the controllable light bulb adapter having a light bulb inserted therein and providing the output power signal to the light bulb. A controllable lighting fixture,
A first electrical connection of the controllable lighting fixture that receives a power signal;
Power is supplied by the power signal received via the first electrical connection, determines a control parameter based on on / off modulation of the power signal, and sets the control parameter while the power signal is on. A controllable lighting fixture receiver module that selectively generates control signals based thereon;
An electronic switch of the controllable lighting fixture that outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal;
A controllable lighting fixture comprising: a second electrical connection of the controllable lighting fixture, wherein a bulb is inserted and provides the output power signal to the bulb. A controllable light bulb adapter,
A first electrical connection of the controllable bulb adapter that receives a power signal from a lighting fixture;
Power is supplied by the power signal received via the first electrical connection, determines a control parameter based on on / off modulation of the power signal, and sets the control parameter while the power signal is on. A controllable bulb adapter receiver module that selectively generates a control signal based thereon;
An electronic switch of the controllable light bulb adapter that outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal;
A controllable light bulb adapter comprising: a second electrical connection of the controllable light bulb adapter having a light bulb inserted therein and providing the output power signal to the light bulb. A control module that generates control data for a controllable device that adjusts the power consumption of the load;
Receiving a periodic power signal, transmitting an output power signal to the controllable device based on the periodic power signal, and between the zero-cross points of the periodic power signal, the output power A master controller comprising: a missing pulse transmitter that encodes the control data into the output power signal by selectively reducing at least one of a signal amplitude and a power level of the signal. Receiving the first power signal and detecting a decrease in at least one of a signal amplitude and a power level of the first power signal between zero crossing points of the first power signal; A missing pulse receiver that decodes the control data in one power signal;
A control module for storing the control data and generating a control signal based on the control data;
A controllable device comprising: a switch that adjusts a load power signal for a load based on the first power signal and the control signal. A control module that generates programming data including at least one of a timer value and a power level value for a controllable device that regulates power consumption of a load;
Receiving a periodic power signal, transmitting an output power signal to the controllable device based on the periodic power signal, and outputting the output between zero cross points of the periodic power signal A missing programmer that encodes the programming data into the output power signal by selectively reducing at least one of a signal amplitude and a power level of the power signal.

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