CN100517145C - System bridge and clock for RF controlled lighting system - Google Patents

Abstract

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

Description

Translated fromChinese

用于RF受控照明系统的系统桥接器和时钟System Bridge and Clock for RF Controlled Lighting Systems

相关申请related application

本申请要求2003年10月8日提交的、名称为“System Bridge andTimeclock For RF Controlled Lighting Systems”的美国申请No.10/681,062的权益，后者要求2003年6月10日提交的、名称为“SystemBridging and Timeclock For RF Controlled Lighting Systems”的美国申请No.60/477,505的权益，它们的全部内容结合于此作为参考。This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 10/681,062, filed October 8, 2003, entitled "System Bridge and Timeclock For RF Controlled Lighting Systems," which claims the title " The benefit of U.S. Application No. 60/477,505 for "System Bridging and Timeclock For RF Controlled Lighting Systems", the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

技术领域technical field

本发明一般涉及照明控制系统。具体而言，本发明涉及互连照明控制系统，其中这些照明控制系统以相同的射频(RF)工作。更具体而言，本发明涉及用于这种互连的设备和方法。The present invention relates generally to lighting control systems. In particular, the present invention relates to interconnected lighting control systems, wherein the lighting control systems operate on the same radio frequency (RF). More specifically, the present invention relates to devices and methods for such interconnections.

背景技术Background technique

可以利用在预定光强度等级工作的预定照明设备的组合来实现照明应用。例如，住宅照明应用可能需要多种照明情形或“场景”。第一种场景可能是居民在家时并且在房间内活动时所需要的。在这种场景中，在各个位置照射全强度的光以实现在房间内安全移动。第二种场景可能是在居民外出时所需要的。例如，为了安全或其他原因，室外光和室内光可能以不同强度等级照射。同样，可以配置其他的场景用于居民度假、娱乐或进行任何其他类型的活动。随着照明设备和/或场景的增加，从中央位置来控制照明设备而不是单独控制每个照明设备将是更方便的。Lighting applications may be implemented with a combination of predetermined lighting devices operating at predetermined light intensity levels. For example, residential lighting applications may require multiple lighting situations or "scenes." The first scenario may be desired when the resident is at home and moving about in the room. In this scenario, full-intensity lights are illuminated at various locations to enable safe movement around the room. The second scenario may be required when residents are out. For example, outdoor lights and indoor lights may be illuminated at different intensity levels for safety or other reasons. Likewise, other scenarios may be configured for residents to vacation, entertain, or conduct any other type of activity. As lighting fixtures and/or scenes increase, it may be more convenient to control the lighting fixtures from a central location rather than controlling each lighting fixture individually.

在照明应用中存在多种能够实现对照明设备遥控的系统。无线照明控制是住宅和商业应用中常用的，因为它与有线系统相比安装容易且成本低。有线系统因在照明应用中需要硬布线照明控制设备而具有很多缺点。例如，对现有的建筑翻修(retrofit)以提供有线系统可能涉及对电线布线使其穿过墙壁或其他结构、安装电缆托架或管道、和/或使电线穿过已有的管道。如果要在其中安装有线系统的建筑仍然是在规划阶段，那么如果要避免上述的翻修问题，就需要将提供电线纳入该建筑的设计计划中。在任何一种情况中，对有线系统的计划和安装都需要付出劳动，这增加了成本。In lighting applications, there are various systems that enable remote control of lighting equipment. Wireless lighting control is commonly used in residential and commercial applications due to its ease of installation and low cost compared to wired systems. Wired systems have a number of disadvantages due to the need for hard-wired lighting control equipment in lighting applications. For example, retrofitting an existing building to provide a wired system may involve routing electrical wires through walls or other structures, installing cable trays or conduits, and/or routing electrical wires through existing conduits. If the building in which the wired system is to be installed is still in the planning stages, the provision of electrical wiring needs to be included in the design of the building if the aforementioned renovation problems are to be avoided. In either case, the planning and installation of the wired system requires labor, which adds to the cost.

相反，无线系统通常是比硬布线照明控制系统更经济的选择，因为大大减少了安装并连接电线的需要，这对于已有的建筑尤其重要。不必在建筑的设计期间为安装照明控制设备作计划，或必须翻修现有的建筑，建筑的所有者或经营者可以简单地将照明控制设备放置在期望这种设备的地方。这种设备可以是电池供电的，或可以简单地连接到电源插口。在较老的已有建筑中，无线系统的成本节省尤其显著，否则这些建筑将需要复杂和/或麻烦的翻修。无线系统还是家庭应用的优选选择，因为这种应用通常比商业应用更加注重成本。Conversely, wireless systems are often a more economical option than hard-wired lighting control systems because the need to install and connect wires is greatly reduced, which is especially important for existing buildings. Rather than planning for the installation of lighting control equipment during the design of a building, or having to retrofit an existing building, the building owner or operator can simply place lighting control equipment where such equipment is desired. Such devices may be battery powered, or may simply be connected to a power outlet. The cost savings of a wireless system are especially significant in older, existing buildings that would otherwise require complex and/or cumbersome renovations. Wireless systems are also the preferred choice for home applications, which are usually more cost-conscious than business applications.

实施具有无线照明控制设备的无线照明控制系统的一种方法是使这些设备能够通过射频(RF)传输来彼此通信。这种RF系统的一个例子是Coorpersburg PA的Lutron Electronics公司制造的

系统。按

协议，子网内的所有设备以相同的频率工作，其中子网是单个

系统。使用单一频率可避免与建筑内的其他设备干扰，符合FCC规范，降低成本等。然而，这样做的结果是，有可能子网内的设备会彼此干扰，这是由于按相同的频率同时发射造成的。另外，在现有的RF照明控制系统中，对于能够在单个网络上控制的设备数量有限制。太多数量的设备会与FCC规范冲突，因为这些规范只允许在特定频率上传输一定长度的时间。目前的系统，例如允许最多控制32个设备。One way to implement a wireless lighting control system with wireless lighting control devices is to enable the devices to communicate with each other through radio frequency (RF) transmissions. An example of such an RF system is manufactured by Lutron Electronics of Coorpersburg PA

system. according to

protocol, all devices within a subnet work on the same frequency, where a subnet is a single

system. Using a single frequency avoids interference with other equipment in the building, complies with FCC regulations, reduces costs, and more. However, as a result of this, there is a possibility that devices within the subnet can interfere with each other due to simultaneous transmissions on the same frequency. Additionally, in existing RF lighting control systems, there is a limit to the number of devices that can be controlled on a single network. Too many devices can run afoul of FCC regulations, which only allow transmission on certain frequencies for a certain length of time. current systems such as Allows control of up to 32 devices.

在一些应用中，必须使用超出单个子网能够控制的、更多的照明控制设备。因此，可能需要第二子网来控制所有期望的设备。应该认识到，将两个无线照明控制系统彼此靠近设置，当两者都以相同的频率工作时，会造成严重的问题，尤其是当照明场景涉及两个子网时。特别是，有可能各个子网同时通信并因此由于导致消息冲突以及不必要地产生RF而相互干扰。尽管由于在单个子网内使用相对较短的RF传输时间，在一个子网内干扰的几率可能较小，但在多子网情形中，由于更多数量的设备必须接收和传送RF传输，RF传输时间增加了。In some applications, more lighting control devices than a single subnet can control must be used. Therefore, a second subnet may be required to control all desired devices. It should be realized that placing two wireless lighting control systems close to each other, when both operate on the same frequency, can cause serious problems, especially when the lighting scenario involves two subnets. In particular, it is possible for the various subnets to communicate simultaneously and thus interfere with each other by causing message collisions and generating RF unnecessarily. Although there may be less chance of interference within a subnet due to the relatively short RF transmission times used within a single subnet, in multi-subnet situations RF Transfer time increased.

例如，当两个不相关的子网位置靠近时，每个子网都具有与另一个相干扰的风险。然而，由于每个子网是不相关的，在每个子网中照明事件(例如场景)的定时将只会因巧合发生在同一时间。相反，当两个或更多子网在功能上组合到一起时，涉及多于一个子网的照明场景会有意地使每个起作用的子网在同一时间通信。结果，在多子网系统中，对于可能发生干扰的点，RF传输时间增加了。For example, when two unrelated subnets are located close together, each has the risk of interfering with the other. However, since each subnet is uncorrelated, the timing of lighting events (eg, scenes) in each subnet will only occur at the same time by coincidence. Conversely, when two or more subnets are functionally combined, a lighting scene involving more than one subnet intentionally causes each contributing subnet to communicate at the same time. As a result, in multi-subnet systems, RF transit times increase for points where interference may occur.

因此，需要一种方法，用于增加照明控制网络可以控制的设备数量，所述照明控制网络使用单一RF。具体而言，需要一种链接多个子网的方法，所述多个子网能够作为以相同RF工作的单个实体而共存，以及在没有数据冲突的情况下彼此进行全局的交互和通信。更具体而言，需要一种方法，通过中央控制来启动涉及多个子网的可编程照明事件。Therefore, what is needed is a method for increasing the number of devices that can be controlled by a lighting control network that uses a single RF. Specifically, there is a need for a method of linking multiple subnets that can coexist as a single entity operating at the same RF, and globally interact and communicate with each other without data collisions. More specifically, a method is needed to initiate programmable lighting events involving multiple subnets through central control.

发明内容Contents of the invention

鉴于上述问题，描述了一种桥接设备和方法，其在各照明网络、各被呼叫的子网之间提供链接，所述网络、子网以相同的RF工作，同时彼此靠近。在本发明的实施例中，在两个或更多子网之间提供桥接器，其允许每个子网接收和发送RF信号或消息给该子网内的设备或其他子网，同时使消息冲突最小化。因此，一个实施例允许对涉及由多个子网控制的照明设备的可编程照明场景进行控制。本发明的另一实施例涉及用来在多个子网之间传递信息的通信方法。In view of the above problems, a bridging device and method is described which provides a link between various lighting networks, each called sub-network, operating with the same RF, while being close to each other. In an embodiment of the invention, a bridge is provided between two or more subnets, which allows each subnet to receive and send RF signals or messages to devices within that subnet or to other subnets, while causing messages to collide minimize. Thus, one embodiment allows control of programmable lighting scenes involving lighting devices controlled by multiple sub-networks. Another embodiment of the invention relates to a communication method for transferring information between multiple subnets.

在本发明的实施例中，提供了两个或更多位置靠近的子网，其中每个子网以相同的RF工作。一个实施例使每个子网能够彼此通信，同时允许通过主控制器在子网之间进行一些重叠控制。相应地，本发明的一个实施例通过例如假想按钮的编程和操作提供全局性能，所述假想按钮在操作上连接到桥接设备。一个实施例还最小化了子网同时通信的可能性，从而避免数据冲突。In an embodiment of the invention, two or more closely located subnets are provided, where each subnet operates with the same RF. One embodiment enables each subnet to communicate with each other while allowing some overlapping control between the subnets through the master controller. Accordingly, one embodiment of the present invention provides global capabilities through, for example, the programming and operation of a virtual button operatively connected to the bridge device. An embodiment also minimizes the possibility of subnets communicating at the same time, thereby avoiding data collisions.

本发明的实施例扩展了使用主控制面板可以控制和操作的设备数量。例如，在

系统中，可控制的设备能够从32增加到64个可控设备。在其他实施例中，可以控制不同数量的设备。Embodiments of the present invention expand the number of devices that can be controlled and operated using the main control panel. For example, in

In the system, the controllable devices can be increased from 32 to 64 controllable devices. In other embodiments, a different number of devices may be controlled.

附图说明Description of drawings

结合附图，会更好地理解前面的发明内容以及优选实施例的详细说明。为了说明本发明的目的，在附图中示出本发明的示例性实施例；然而，本发明不限于所公开的特定方法和手段。在附图中：The foregoing summary of the invention and detailed description of the preferred embodiments will be better understood with reference to the accompanying drawings. For purposes of illustrating the invention, exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings; however, the invention is not limited to the particular methods and instrumentalities disclosed. In the attached picture:

图1是示出示例性RF照明控制系统的框图；1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary RF lighting control system;

图2A是根据本发明一个实施例的示例性桥接设备的框图；Figure 2A is a block diagram of an exemplary bridging device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

图2B是通过根据本发明一个实施例的桥接设备在操作上互连的示例性RF照明控制系统的框图；2B is a block diagram of an exemplary RF lighting control system operatively interconnected by a bridge device according to one embodiment of the invention;

图3是示出根据本发明的实施例桥接两个RF照明控制系统的方法的流程图；3 is a flowchart illustrating a method of bridging two RF lighting control systems according to an embodiment of the present invention;

图4是根据本发明一个实施例的桥接系统的示例性时序图；FIG. 4 is an exemplary timing diagram of a bridging system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

图5是根据本发明一个实施例用于克服串音情形的通信协议的示例性时序图；FIG. 5 is an exemplary timing diagram of a communication protocol for overcoming a crosstalk situation according to one embodiment of the present invention;

图6A-C是根据本发明一个实施例在单个子网中执行连续命令的通信协议的示例性时序图；6A-C are exemplary timing diagrams of a communication protocol for executing sequential commands in a single subnet according to one embodiment of the invention;

图7A-C是根据本发明一个实施例跨两个子网执行相继各命令的通信协议的示例性时序图。7A-C are exemplary timing diagrams of a communication protocol for executing successive commands across two subnets according to one embodiment of the invention.

具体实施方式Detailed ways

本发明的实施例涉及在操作上互连两个或更多RF照明控制系统，所述系统以相同的RF彼此靠近工作。在这样的实施例中，靠近是指一个RF照明控制系统中的至少一个设备发送可以被第二RF照明控制系统中的至少一个设备接收的RF信号的能力。应该认识到，由这种照明控制系统使用的RF信号可以是任何适合于预期位置以及该照明控制系统使用的频率。例如，可以选择该频率以符合FCC规范，避免与该照明控制系统所运行区域中的其他设备冲突，或根据其他考虑。Embodiments of the present invention relate to operationally interconnecting two or more RF lighting control systems that operate in close proximity to each other with the same RF. In such embodiments, proximity refers to the ability of at least one device in one RF lighting control system to transmit an RF signal that can be received by at least one device in a second RF lighting control system. It should be appreciated that the RF signal used by such a lighting control system may be any frequency suitable for the intended location and use of the lighting control system. For example, the frequency may be selected to comply with FCC regulations, to avoid conflicts with other devices in the area in which the lighting control system operates, or based on other considerations.

如上所述，本发明的一个实施例涉及可以在建筑等之中采用的照明控制系统。这种照明控制系统的例子在美国专利No.5,982,103、5,905442、5,848,054、5,838,226和5,736,965中描述；所有这些都转让给了Lutron Electronics公司，并且其全部内容结合于此作为参考。还可以参考Lutron Electronics公司的网站http://www.lutron.com，该网站中包含更多关于

系统的实施和使用的信息。根据所结合的参考资料，本领域技术人员应该熟悉实施RF照明控制系统的方法，因此，为了简明，在此省略对这些主题的详细论述。As noted above, one embodiment of the present invention relates to a lighting control system that may be employed in buildings and the like. Examples of such lighting control systems are described in US Patent Nos. 5,982,103, 5,905442, 5,848,054, 5,838,226, and 5,736,965; all of which are assigned to Lutron Electronics Corporation and are incorporated by reference in their entirety. You can also refer to the Lutron Electronics company's websitehttp://www.lutron.com , which contains more information about

Information on the implementation and use of the system. Methods of implementing an RF lighting control system should be familiar to those skilled in the art from the incorporated references, therefore, a detailed discussion of these topics is omitted here for the sake of brevity.

本发明的一个实施例包括桥接设备以及由这种桥接设备采用的通信方法，所述桥接设备例如是链接独立的RF控制的网络的系统桥或系统桥与时钟(SBT)。在一个实施例中，这种设备和方法可以用于桥接例如RF照明系统的两个子网。在这样的实施例中，在子网内的所有控制功能都是通过主控制设备、照明控制设备和/或(如果需要)中继器之间的RF信号完成的。主控制设备提供多个控制按钮和状态指示器，所述控制按钮被指定用于控制各种照明设备，所述状态指示器反映照明控制系统的状态。在需要时，中继器用于确保所有设备可接收为控制设备的目的而通过RF信号传送的通信。在结合有

系统的一个实施例中，照明控制设备通过RF(例如390、418或434MHz)彼此通信。One embodiment of the invention includes a bridging device, such as a system bridge or a system bridge and clock (SBT), linking independent RF-controlled networks, and communication methods employed by such a bridging device. In one embodiment, such an apparatus and method can be used to bridge two sub-networks of, for example, RF lighting systems. In such an embodiment, all control functions within the sub-network are accomplished through RF signals between the master control device, lighting control devices and/or (if required) repeaters. The master control device provides a plurality of control buttons designated for controlling the various lighting devices and status indicators that reflect the status of the lighting control system. When required, repeaters are used to ensure that all devices can receive communications carried by RF signals for the purpose of controlling the device. in conjunction with

In one embodiment of the system, the lighting control devices communicate with each other via RF (eg 390, 418 or 434 MHz).

现在转到图1，提供示出示例性RF照明控制系统(例如

系统等)的框图。系统100包括主控制器11，用于使用户能够向系统100输入命令，并观察可在指示器16上显示的照明状态信息，指示器16可包括例如LED、LCD屏幕等。此外，系统100包括照明控制设备12，例如调光器。中继器13，如同其名字所暗示的，从主控制器11和/或照明控制设备12接收信号，并转发该信号以提供增大范围的RF传输。应该认识到，中继器13是可选的，因为在一些应用中，设置主控制器11和/或照明控制设备12，使得两者能直接通信，而不需要中继器13。主控制器11、照明控制设备12和可选的中继器13通过无线通信链路15在操作上彼此连接。如上所述，系统100的所有设备在每个通信链路15上以相同的RF工作。Turning now to FIG. 1 , a diagram illustrating an exemplary RF lighting control system (such as

system, etc.) block diagram. Thesystem 100 includes amain controller 11 for enabling a user to enter commands into thesystem 100 and view lighting status information which may be displayed on anindicator 16 which may include, for example, LEDs, an LCD screen, or the like. Additionally, thesystem 100 includes alighting control device 12, such as a dimmer.Repeater 13, as its name implies, receives signals frommaster controller 11 and/orlighting control device 12 and repeats the signals to provide increased range RF transmission. It should be appreciated that therepeater 13 is optional, as in some applications themaster controller 11 and/or thelighting control device 12 are arranged such that the two can communicate directly without the need for therepeater 13 . Themaster controller 11 ,lighting control device 12 andoptional repeater 13 are operatively connected to each other by awireless communication link 15 . As mentioned above, all devices of thesystem 100 operate with the same RF on eachcommunication link 15 .

用户选择启动特定的照明场景，通过操作主控制器11来开始该场景。然后信号被传递到适当的照明控制设备12，以执行该场景所需的功能。应该认识到，该信号可以通过中继器13来转发，以确保照明控制设备12接收该信号。还应该认识到，该信号可以包含各种信息段。例如，在用于执行特定功能的命令之外，该信号可以包含对应主控制器11和/或照明控制设备12等的标识符。可以提供附加的格式化信息，例如用于唯一标识系统100的房间地址。该信号任何类型的格式化或配置与本发明的实施例也是相符合的。The user selects to activate a particular lighting scene, which is started by operating themain controller 11 . The signals are then passed to the appropriatelighting control device 12 to perform the functions required for the scene. It should be appreciated that the signal may be repeated through therepeater 13 to ensure that thelighting control device 12 receives the signal. It should also be appreciated that the signal may contain various pieces of information. For example, the signal may contain an identifier of the correspondingmain controller 11 and/orlighting control device 12 or the like, in addition to a command to perform a specific function. Additional formatting information may be provided, such as a room address for uniquely identifyingsystem 100 . Any type of formatting or configuration of the signal is also consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

一旦该信号已被照明控制设备12接收，然后，需要时该设备控制灯14，照明控制设备12将信号传送回主控制器11。主控制器11通过照亮指示器16灯来指示确认，确认任务已成功完成。指示器16可以表现任何类型的信息，例如灯14的强度等级、开/关状态和/或类似信息。Once the signal has been received by thelighting control device 12, which then controls thelights 14 as required, thelighting control device 12 transmits the signal back to themain controller 11. Themaster controller 11 indicates confirmation by illuminating the indicator light 16 that the task has been successfully completed.Indicator 16 may present any type of information, such as an intensity level, on/off status, and/or the like oflight 14 .

应该理解，如果用户希望通过例如改变灯14的光强来仅影响一个灯14，用户可以直接操作照明控制设备12。在这样的实施例中，照明控制设备12可以向主控制器11发送信号，将改变的强度通知该主控制器11。在这样的实施例中，将通过指示器16来更新改变的状态。作为替换，照明控制设备12可以等待，直到主控制器11传送了信号，从而仅当主控制器11轮询(poll)时更新照明控制设备12的状态。应该理解，图1的RF照明控制系统仅是示例性的，任何数量或配置的设备都与本发明的实施例相符合。It should be understood that the user may operate thelighting control device 12 directly if the user wishes to affect only onelamp 14 by, for example, changing the intensity of thelamps 14 . In such an embodiment, thelighting control device 12 may send a signal to themaster controller 11 informing themaster controller 11 of the changed intensity. In such an embodiment, the changed status will be updated by theindicator 16 . Alternatively, thelighting control device 12 may wait until themain controller 11 transmits a signal, thereby updating the status of thelighting control device 12 only when themain controller 11 polls. It should be understood that the RF lighting control system of FIG. 1 is exemplary only and that any number or configuration of devices is consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

应该认识到，在图1的系统中，“子网”包括至少一个主控制器11和至少一个照明控制设备12。如上所述，仅在要求必须确保主控制器11和照明控制设备12之间的信号成功传送和接收时，才需要中继器13存在。相反，在本发明的实施例中，如同将在下面结合图3到7所论述的，通过桥接器链接的子网仅需要包括单个设备。如同将从下面可看出的，根据本发明实施例的桥接器包含主控制器11的功能。因此，在一个实施例中的子网仅需要包括单个主控制器11或单个照明控制设备12，尽管更多数量的设备同样与本发明的实施例相符合。It should be appreciated that in the system of FIG. 1 a "sub-network" includes at least onemaster controller 11 and at least onelighting control device 12 . As mentioned above, the presence of therepeater 13 is only required when it is necessary to ensure the successful transmission and reception of signals between themain controller 11 and thelighting control device 12 . In contrast, in embodiments of the present invention, as will be discussed below in connection with Figures 3 to 7, subnets linked by bridges need only include a single device. As will be seen below, the bridge according to the embodiment of the present invention incorporates the functionality of themain controller 11 . Thus, a sub-network in one embodiment need only include asingle master controller 11 or a singlelighting control device 12, although a greater number of devices is also consistent with embodiments of the invention.

桥接方法bridging method

如上所述，在具有一个以上靠近的功能相关的子网的应用中，因一个以上设备(例如主控制器11)同时发送而遇到干扰的机会增加。因此，在本发明的实施例中，提供了桥接设备。现在转到图2A，示出了根据本发明一个实施例的示例性桥接设备的框图。桥接器200包括发射机205和接收机210，它们适于按每个子网(为了清楚，图2A中没有示出)所使用的RF工作。在操作上连接到发射机205和接收机210的是处理器215，它可以是通用或专用计算设备，适于控制桥接器200的功能。应该理解，处理器215可包括单个处理器，或者它可以包括多个并行运行的处理器。例如，在本发明的一个实施例中，处理器215包括用于控制RF发送和接收以及一些输入/输出(I/O)的第一处理器，和用于控制I/O、显示器及存储器的第二处理器。As noted above, in applications with more than one functionally related subnetwork in close proximity, there is an increased chance of encountering interference due to simultaneous transmissions by more than one device (eg, master controller 11). Accordingly, in an embodiment of the invention, a bridging device is provided. Turning now to FIG. 2A, a block diagram of an exemplary bridging device according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Thebridge 200 includes atransmitter 205 and areceiver 210 adapted to operate at the RF used by each subnet (not shown in FIG. 2A for clarity). Operatively connected totransmitter 205 andreceiver 210 isprocessor 215 , which may be a general or special purpose computing device, adapted to control the functions ofbridge 200 . It should be understood thatprocessor 215 may comprise a single processor, or it may comprise multiple processors operating in parallel. For example, in one embodiment of the invention,processor 215 includes a first processor for controlling RF transmission and reception and some input/output (I/O), and a first processor for controlling I/O, display, and memory. second processor.

在操作上连接到处理器215的是存储器240、I/O 225和显示器250。存储器240可以是任何类型的数据存储设备，例如RAM、闪速存储器、ROM等。I/O 225可以是用于向桥接器200输入数据或指令、或用于显示状态信息、指令等的设备的任意组合。另外，I/O 225可以包括数据连接，例如RS-232连接等，用于连接外部数据源。例如，在一个实施例中，桥接器200通过I/O 225从外部设备接收时序信息。存储器240可以包含可与这种时序信息结合使用的信息。例如，存储器240可以包含一个或更多地理位置的日出和日落信息，然后由处理器215在接收的时序信息的情况中处理，使得桥接器200能够在日出和日落时执行预定的行为。在另一个实施例中，这种时序信息可以在桥接器200内部产生。Operably connected toprocessor 215 is memory 240, I/O 225, and display 250. Memory 240 may be any type of data storage device, such as RAM, flash memory, ROM, or the like. I/O 225 may be any combination of devices for inputting data or instructions to bridge 200, or for displaying status information, instructions, etc. Additionally, I/O 225 may include data connections, such as RS-232 connections, etc., for connecting to external data sources. For example, in one embodiment,bridge 200 receives timing information from an external device via I/O 225. Memory 240 may contain information that may be used in conjunction with such timing information. For example, memory 240 may contain sunrise and sunset information for one or more geographic locations, which is then processed byprocessor 215 in the event of received timing information, enablingbridge 200 to perform predetermined actions at sunrise and sunset. In another embodiment, such timing information may be generated internally withinbridge 200 .

应该认识到，用户可以通过I/O 225和显示器250来与桥接器200交互。在一个实施例中，显示器250是LCD显示屏，其向用户显示菜单驱动的提示，该用户能够通过I/O 225与这种菜单交互。应该认识到，可以使用任何类型的显示器，同时保持与本发明的实施例相符合。另外，I/O 225可以包括例如摇臂开关、键盘端口、一个或更多按钮等，用户可以操纵，以便输入信息和响应在显示器250上显示的提示进行选择。还应该认识到，桥接器200具有外壳(为了清楚，在图2A中没有示出)，形成该外壳使得桥接器200能够放置在各种位置。例如，桥接器200可以放置看不见的区域，例如储藏室中，或者可以增强其装饰性，以便放置在房间或建筑的可见区域。It should be appreciated that a user may interact withbridge 200 through I/O 225 and display 250. In one embodiment, display 250 is an LCD display that displays menu-driven prompts to a user who can interact with such menus through I/O 225. It should be appreciated that any type of display may be used while remaining consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, I/O 225 may include, for example, a rocker switch, a keyboard port, one or more buttons, etc., that a user may manipulate to enter information and make selections in response to prompts displayed on display 250. It should also be appreciated that thebridge 200 has a housing (not shown in FIG. 2A for clarity) formed to allow thebridge 200 to be placed in a variety of locations. For example, thebridge 200 can be placed in an unseen area, such as in a storage room, or can be enhanced to be decorative so that it can be placed in a visible area of a room or building.

一个实施例的桥接器200链接多个独立的RF网络或子网，它们在相同的频率上运行，如图2B所示。例如，图2B是根据本发明一个实施例的两个示例性RF照明控制子网220和230的框图，它们在操作上通过桥接器200互连。尽管示出子网220和230具有主控制器11、照明控制设备12、中继器13和照明设备14，但应该认识到，如上所述，根据本发明实施例的子网220和230仅需包括单个设备。Thebridge 200 of one embodiment links multiple independent RF networks or subnets, which operate on the same frequency, as shown in Figure 2B. For example, FIG. 2B is a block diagram of two exemplary RFlighting control subnets 220 and 230 operatively interconnected bybridge 200 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Althoughsubnetworks 220 and 230 are shown withmaster controller 11,lighting control device 12,repeater 13, andlighting device 14, it should be appreciated that, as described above,subnetworks 220 and 230 according to embodiments of the present invention need only Includes a single device.

如同图2B中可以看出的，子网220通过桥接器200经由无线连接A和B在操作上连接到子网230。如同下面结合图3到7所论述的，使用这种桥接器200为子网220和230提供了这种能力：靠近运行而不会在桥接器200发送时在共享的RF上产生消息冲突。换言之，当桥接器200发送时，它通过在与子网220或230通信期间保持另一个未通信的子网220或230静止，消除了在子网220和230之间的RF冲突。另外，桥接器200还为子网220和230提供了彼此通信的手段，而不会使一个子网打断另一个子网的通信。桥接器200还允许子网220和230作为独立运行的系统来操作，同时还提供独立子网220和230之间的全局操作。As can be seen in FIG. 2B ,subnet 220 is operatively connected to subnet 230 via wireless connections A and B throughbridge 200 . As discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 3-7 , the use of such abridge 200 provides thesubnets 220 and 230 with the ability to operate in close proximity without creating message collisions on the shared RF when thebridge 200 transmits. In other words, whenbridge 200 transmits, it eliminates RF collisions betweensubnets 220 and 230 by keeping the othernon-communicating subnet 220 or 230 stationary during communication withsubnet 220 or 230 . In addition,bridge 200 provides a means forsubnets 220 and 230 to communicate with each other without one subnet interrupting the communication of the other. Bridge 200 also allowssubnets 220 and 230 to operate as independently functioning systems, while also providing global operation betweenindependent subnets 220 and 230 .

在一个实施例中，涉及在功能上相关的子网220和230的照明场景是通过桥接器200的“假想”按钮实现的。假想按钮是被编程为具有特定功能的虚拟按钮。这种假想按钮可以通过例如I/O 225等编程。在单个或多个子网220和230中，可以编程特定的假想按钮，以创建定制的照明方案，该方案涉及例如上面结合图1所述的灯14等照明设备。在一个这样的实施例中，全局操作包括全开(ALL ON，所有照明设备开启)、全关(ALL OFF，所有照明设备关闭)和其他可涉及来自任何数量子网的任何数量照明设备的可编程设置。在一个使用上面所述的

系统的实施例中，在全开和全关之外提供15种可编程设置。尽管一些实施例(例如下面结合图4到7所述的实施例)使用两个子网，但应该认识到，使用任何数量的子网都同样与本发明的实施例相符合。因此，桥接器200的假想按钮会影响两个系统种的设备，并且能够用于从主控制器11或通过另一个设备(例如RS-232设备)控制子网220和230。In one embodiment, a lighting scene involving the functionallyrelated subnets 220 and 230 is achieved through a "fake" button of thebridge 200 . Phantom buttons are virtual buttons programmed to have specific functions. Such virtual buttons can be programmed through, for example, I/O 225 or the like. Within single ormultiple sub-networks 220 and 230, specific imaginary buttons may be programmed to create customized lighting schemes involving lighting devices such aslamps 14 described above in connection with FIG. 1 . In one such embodiment, global operations include ALL ON (all lights are turned on), ALL OFF (all lights are turned off), and other possible actions that may involve any number of lights from any number of subnets. programming settings. In a using the above described

In an embodiment of the system, 15 programmable settings are provided beyond full open and full close. While some embodiments, such as those described below in connection with Figures 4-7, use two subnets, it should be appreciated that the use of any number of subnets is equally consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Thus, the imaginary buttons of thebridge 200 affect devices of both systems and can be used to control thesubnets 220 and 230 from themain controller 11 or through another device (such as an RS-232 device).

在单个子网中，用户通过例如在主控制器11上按下表示照明场景的按钮来启动照明场景。作为响应，主控制器11根据对该照明场景的预定设置向一个或更多照明控制设备12发送RF信号。相反，在本发明的一个实施例中，主控制器11发送表示所选照明场景的标识符。桥接器200把所接收的信号与假想按钮比较，所述假想按钮对应存储在例如存储器240中的照明场景。然后，桥接器200将适当的RF信号发送到在一个或更多子网220和/或230中的一个或更多照明控制设备12。因此，在一个子网中的主控制器11能够控制在所有子网220和230中的照明控制设备12。in a single In the sub-network, the user activates a lighting scene by, for example, pressing a button on themain controller 11 representing the lighting scene. In response, themaster controller 11 sends RF signals to one or morelighting control devices 12 according to predetermined settings for the lighting scene. Instead, in one embodiment of the invention, themaster controller 11 sends an identifier representing the selected lighting scene. Thebridge 200 compares the received signal with an imaginary button corresponding to a lighting scene stored, for example, in the memory 240 .Bridge 200 then sends the appropriate RF signals to one or morelighting control devices 12 in one ormore subnets 220 and/or 230 . Therefore, themaster controller 11 in one subnet can control thelighting control devices 12 in allsubnets 220 and 230 .

在另一个实施例中，桥接器200可以和主控制器11一起使用，所述主控制器11以和现有的单个子网

系统相一致的方式运行。例如，在一些实施例中，桥接器200可以添加到预先存在的子网220和/或230中，结合一个或更多设备，包括附加的子网。应该认识到，当例如现有的子网已达到其容量以及需要一个或更多附加的子网时可出现这种情形。结果，一个或更多主控制器11可以不配置为仅响应按钮按下来发送场景标识符。在这样的实施例中，如同下面结合图3到8所论述的，桥接器200等待发送主控制器11结束发送，标识对应的假想按钮，然后向适当的照明控制设备12发送适当的RF信号。在这样的实施例中，尽管命令可以被两次传送给一些照明控制设备12，一次通过主控制器11，一次通过桥接器200，但应该认识到，桥接器200与这两种类型的主控制器11 RF传输协议都同样兼容。In another embodiment, thebridge 200 can be used with themain controller 11, themain controller 11 and the existing single subnetwork

The system operates in a consistent manner. For example, in some embodiments,bridge 200 may be added topre-existing subnets 220 and/or 230, in conjunction with one or more devices, including additional subnets. It should be appreciated that such a situation may arise when, for example, an existing subnet has reached its capacity and one or more additional subnets are required. As a result, one ormore master controllers 11 may not be configured to send scene identifiers only in response to button presses. In such an embodiment, thebridge 200 waits for the transmittingmaster controller 11 to finish transmitting, identifies the corresponding imaginary button, and then transmits the appropriate RF signal to the appropriatelighting control device 12, as discussed below in connection with FIGS. 3-8. In such an embodiment, although commands may be sent to somelighting control devices 12 twice, once through themaster controller 11 and once through thebridge 200, it should be appreciated that thebridge 200 is compatible with both types of master controllers. 11 RF transmission protocols are equally compatible.

在本发明的实施例中，使用RF传输协议。在这种协议中，设备尝试通过等待时间和传输时延(backoff)来避免RF冲突。等待时间是接收RF信号的设备在该信号结束后在发送信号之前应该等待的时间量。等待时间是发送设备对接收设备指定的。传输时延也是接收RF信号的设备在该信号结束后在发送信号之前应该等待的时间量。但是，传输时延与等待时间的不同之处在于传输时延是由接收设备假设的，而不是对接收设备指定的。接收RF信号的设备在检测到信号时，给它自己指定一个在该信号结束后等待的传输时延，以便避免与任何另外的RF信号干扰。一旦传输时延届满，以及如果没有其他的RF信号接收，则如果需要，该设备能够自由发送。在一个实施例中，传输时延的长度是随机确定的，从而等待发送的设备不太可能在传输时延届满时同时发送RF信号。In the embodiment of the present invention, using RF transmission protocol. In this protocol, devices attempt to avoid RF collisions through latency and transmission backoff. Latency is the amount of time a device receiving an RF signal should wait after that signal ends before sending it. The waiting time is specified by the sending device to the receiving device. Transmission delay is also the amount of time a device receiving an RF signal should wait after that signal ends before sending it. However, transmission delay differs from latency in that transmission delay is assumed by, rather than specified to, the receiving device. A device receiving an RF signal, when it detects a signal, assigns itself a transmission delay to wait after the signal has ended in order to avoid interference with any other RF signals. Once the transmission delay has expired, and if no other RF signals are received, the device is free to transmit if desired. In one embodiment, the length of the transmission delay is randomly determined such that devices waiting to transmit are less likely to simultaneously transmit RF signals when the transmission delay expires.

现在转到图3，提供示出根据本发明实施例的桥接两个RF照明控制子网220和230的示例性方法的流程图。在步骤301，桥接器200检测到事件。该事件可以是来自子网(例如上面所述的图2中的子网220)中的主控制器11或者照明控制设备12的RF传输。另外，事件可以是通过I/O 225在桥接器200自身上的按钮按下动作等。如同可以认识到的，如果该事件是RF传输，那么该传输可以包括照明场景标识符、到照明控制设备的命令和/或等等。在一个实施例中，桥接器200还可设定随机传输时延，从而避免在进行到步骤303-309之前与RF传输干扰。Turning now to FIG. 3 , a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of bridging two RFlighting control sub-networks 220 and 230 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided. Instep 301, thebridge 200 detects an event. The event may be an RF transmission from amaster controller 11 or alighting control device 12 in a subnet (such assubnet 220 in FIG. 2 described above). Additionally, the event may be a button press on thebridge 200 itself via I/O 225, etc. As can be appreciated, if the event is an RF transmission, the transmission may include a lighting scene identifier, a command to a lighting control device, and/or the like. In one embodiment, thebridge 200 can also set a random transmission delay, so as to avoid interference with RF transmission before proceeding to steps 303-309.

在步骤303，桥接器200向子网220和230发送子网活动(subnetaction)以“保留”该工作RF。如同在下面结合图4到8所论述的，子网活动通常是用链接要求来启动的。链接要求向子网220和230通知将要发出命令，并且一旦每个子网220和230接收到该链接要求，每个子网220和230中的每个设备停止发送并等待来自桥接器200的传输。如上所述，每个设备在接收到包括链接要求的RF信号时都假设一个传输时延。在一个实施例中，该传输时延是在预定范围内的随机值。除链接要求之外，子网活动可以包括对一个或更多设备的一个或更多命令。因此，子网活动能够实现照明场景的全部或一部分。如同可以认识到的，子网活动还可以包括家庭标识符、设备标识符等。还应该认识到，在一些实施例中，子网活动将该子网活动重复一次或更多次，以确保命令的安全接收。还如同上面所论述的，在一个实施例中，桥接器200向目标子网220和230中的设备发送随机等待时间。Atstep 303,bridge 200 sends a subnet action tosubnets 220 and 230 to "reserve" the working RF. As discussed below in connection with Figures 4 through 8, subnetwork activity is typically initiated with link requirements. The link request notifies thesubnets 220 and 230 that a command is about to be issued, and once eachsubnet 220 and 230 receives the link request, each device in eachsubnet 220 and 230 stops sending and waits for a transmission from thebridge 200 . As mentioned above, each device assumes a transmission delay when receiving the RF signal including the link request. In one embodiment, the transmission delay is a random value within a predetermined range. In addition to link requirements, subnet activity may include one or more commands to one or more devices. Thus, subnetwork activities can realize all or part of a lighting scene. As can be appreciated, subnet activity may also include household identifiers, device identifiers, and the like. It should also be appreciated that in some embodiments, subnetwork activity repeats the subnetwork activity one or more times to ensure safe receipt of commands. Also as discussed above, in one embodiment,bridge 200 sends random wait times to devices intarget subnets 220 and 230 .

在步骤305，接收来自例如主控制器11和/或照明控制设备12等设备的确认。如同可以认识到的，在一些实施例中，如果该确认不作为实施例的通信方案的一部分发送，框305可以是可选的。在步骤307，对于桥接器200是否将执行任何子网220、230上的另一个子网活动进行确定。如果是，则该方法返回步骤303，以发送另一个子网活动。在完成所有必须的子网活动后，在步骤309，桥接器200在设备传输时延期间等待。在该时间之后，其他设备能够根据需要自由发送RF信号。Instep 305, an acknowledgment is received from a device such as themaster controller 11 and/or thelighting control device 12 . As can be appreciated, in some embodiments, block 305 may be optional if the acknowledgment is not sent as part of an embodiment's communication scheme. Atstep 307, a determination is made as to whether thebridge 200 will perform another subnetwork activity on anysubnetwork 220, 230. If so, the method returns to step 303 to send another subnet activity. After completing all necessary subnetwork activities, at step 309, thebridge 200 waits during the device transmission delay. After that time, other devices are free to transmit RF signals as needed.

现在转到图4，提供根据本发明一个实施例的桥接系统的示例性时序图。在系统400中，框405表示用户活动，框410表示在子网220内的主控制器12活动，框415和420分别表示子网220和230中的桥接器200的活动。框425-460示出根据本发明一个实施例的示例性活动序列。应该认识到，图4的实施例提供了全局按钮的例子，其中一个或更多个设备，例如照明控制设备12、灯14等，在两个或更多子网220和230中受影响。这种全局按钮的例子是例如上面结合图2A-B所述的全开和全关按钮。Turning now to FIG. 4 , an exemplary timing diagram of a bridging system according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided. Insystem 400, block 405 represents user activity, block 410 representsmaster controller 12 activity withinsubnet 220, and blocks 415 and 420 representbridge 200 activity insubnets 220 and 230, respectively. Blocks 425-460 illustrate an exemplary sequence of activities according to one embodiment of the invention. It should be appreciated that the embodiment of FIG. 4 provides an example of a global button where one or more devices, such aslighting control device 12 ,lamp 14 , etc., are affected in two ormore subnets 220 and 230 . Examples of such global buttons are full on and full off buttons such as those described above in connection with Figs. 2A-B.

在框425，用户按下按钮，并且作为响应，主控制器12在框430传送信号，指示该按钮被按下。在框435，桥接器200在子网220中发送全局按钮信号。显而易见的，框435相当于图7A中的框706-708、714、720和726，以及图7B中的框725-756，这些将在下面论述。如同可以认识到的，桥接器200的处理器215等在接收到框430的信号时可以在存储器240等中查找对应照明场景的假想按钮。换言之，子网220中的主控制器12上的全局按钮可以对应桥接器200中的假想按钮的任何预编程的场景。桥接器200确定用户按下的按钮是子网200本地的还是为影响两个子网220和230的按钮，在本地的情况下，随后进行如下面结合图6A-C所述的处理，在影响两个子网220和230的情况下，随后进行如下面结合图7A-C所述的处理。Atblock 425, the user presses a button, and in response,master controller 12 transmits a signal atblock 430 indicating that the button was pressed. Atblock 435 ,bridge 200 sends a global button signal insubnet 220 . Notably, block 435 is equivalent to blocks 706-708, 714, 720, and 726 in FIG. 7A, and blocks 725-756 in FIG. 7B, which are discussed below. As can be appreciated, theprocessor 215 or the like of thebridge 200 upon receiving the signal ofblock 430 may look up the imaginary button in the memory 240 or the like corresponding to the lighting scene. In other words, the global button on themaster controller 12 in thesubnet 220 can correspond to any pre-programmed scene of the imaginary button in thebridge 200 . Thebridge 200 determines whether the button pressed by the user is local to thesubnet 200 or a button affecting bothsubnets 220 and 230, in which case, then proceeds as described below in connection with FIGS. In the case ofsubnets 220 and 230, the processing is then performed as described below in conjunction with FIGS. 7A-C.

在图4的实施例中，如上所述，在框435，在子网220中由桥接器200发送全局按钮。如下面所论述的，在一个实施例中，框435以及框460包括链接要求、命令和在其中用于接收确认的时间段。在框460，在子网230中由桥接器200发送全局按钮。另外，应该认识到，框460相当于图7A中的框710、712、716、718、722、724和728，以及图7C中的框758-794，这些将在下面论述。在框445，子网220和230等待链接畅通(clear)。框445可以包括例如在上面结合图3的步骤309所述的在传输时延期间等待。在框450，桥接器200的显示器250，通过例如LED来照亮主控制器12的指示器16等。如同可以认识到的，照亮LED等的处理(如由框450所表示的)还可以包括根据图3的方法进行的信号传输。In the embodiment of FIG. 4, atblock 435, the global button is sent by thebridge 200 in thesubnet 220, as described above. As discussed below, in one embodiment, blocks 435 and 460 include link requirements, commands, and time periods within which to receive acknowledgments. Atblock 460 , the global button is sent bybridge 200 insubnet 230 . Additionally, it should be appreciated thatblock 460 is equivalent toblocks 710, 712, 716, 718, 722, 724, and 728 in FIG. 7A, and blocks 758-794 in FIG. 7C, which are discussed below. Atblock 445, thesubnets 220 and 230 wait for the link to clear.Block 445 may include waiting during transmission delays, such as described above in connection with step 309 of FIG. 3 . At block 450 , the display 250 of thebridge 200 illuminates theindicator 16 of themain controller 12 , etc., via LEDs, for example. As can be appreciated, the process of illuminating an LED or the like (as represented by block 450 ) may also include signaling according to the method of FIG. 3 .

在框455，启动其他LED或显示设备，例如显示器250和/或指示器16。因此，应该认识到，本发明的实施例允许作为全局按钮一部分的照明控制命令等首先执行，而延迟确认LED等直到这些命令的结束。用这种方式，利用用户不太注意的状态指示器更新中的轻微延迟为代价，减少了用户最为关注的灯14等的响应时间。At block 455 , other LEDs or display devices, such as display 250 and/orindicator 16 , are activated. Thus, it should be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention allow lighting control commands, etc. that are part of a global button to execute first, while delaying confirmation of LEDs, etc. until the end of those commands. In this way, the response time of thelights 14 etc., which the user is most concerned about, is reduced at the expense of a slight delay in updating the status indicators which the user pays less attention to.

串音crosstalk

上面图3中的方法在该方法的实施实例中可以得到更好的理解。尽管下面的图5到7仅示出了两个子网220和230，但可以认识到，任何数量的子网220-230都可以在操作上通过桥接器200互连。尽管控制大量子网所需的时间可能增加，但应该认识到，时序图仅是用于示例的目的，实际的时序图可以具有更多或更少的框和/或功能块，执行它们来实现所希望的命令。因此，本发明的实施例提供通信框架，在该框架上可以实施照明控制系统。The method in Figure 3 above can be better understood in an implementation example of the method. Although only twosubnets 220 and 230 are shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 below, it will be appreciated that any number of subnets 220 - 230 may be operatively interconnected bybridge 200 . Although the time required to control a large number of subnets may increase, it should be recognized that the timing diagrams are for example purposes only and that actual timing diagrams may have more or fewer blocks and/or functional blocks that are executed to achieve desired command. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention provide a communication framework upon which a lighting control system can be implemented.

现在转到图5，示出了根据本发明一个实施例用于克服串音情形的通信协议的示例性时序图。如能够从下面的图5及图6到7中看出的，时间沿时间轴的方向前进。如同可以认识到的，图5到7都不是精确地按比例绘制的，因为任何时间、通信协议或频率都可能影响这些框的确切间距。Turning now to FIG. 5 , an exemplary timing diagram of a communication protocol for overcoming a crosstalk situation according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. As can be seen from Figure 5 and Figures 6 to 7 below, time progresses in the direction of the time axis. As can be appreciated, none of Figures 5 through 7 are drawn to exact scale, as any timing, communication protocol or frequency may affect the exact spacing of these boxes.

各设备仅在一个子网中互相通信的情况下存在串音情形，但是另一个以相同频率工作的邻近子网会导致干扰或“串音”。因此图5示出了由子网220对包含在其中的设备启动的基本通信事件，同时还存在第二子网230。该时序图示出了根据桥接器200避免串音的通信。在图5中示出3各比特流，其中每个指示了在涉及桥接器200的通信期间子网220和230的时序。Crosstalk occurs when devices are communicating with each other on only one subnet, but another adjacent subnet operating on the same frequency can cause interference or "crosstalk." FIG. 5 thus shows the basic communication events initiated by thesubnetwork 220 to the devices contained therein, while thesecond subnetwork 230 is also present. This timing diagram shows communication according tobridge 200 to avoid crosstalk. Three bit streams are shown in FIG. 5 , each of which indicates the timing ofsubnets 220 and 230 duringcommunications involving bridge 200 .

在本发明的实施例中，上面结合步骤307和313讨论的随机等待时间由启动子网220指定。因此，在图5的串音例子中，子网220，包括含在其中的设备，为它自己指定随机的等待时间，同时对子网230指定最大的随机等待时间。同样，在每个子网220和230中的每个设备在接收到RF信号时假设一个随机传输时延。因此，图5中的“最坏情况”是假设最大可能的传输时延，而“最好情况”是假设最小可能的传输时延。因此，如同可以认识到的，子网220的“最坏情况”的时序，如由框502-518所示出的，当随机等待时间是最大可能值时出现。应该认识到，下面所论述的图6B、6C、7B和7C示出了这种最坏情况的时序。In an embodiment of the present invention, the random wait time discussed above in connection withsteps 307 and 313 is specified by theboot subnet 220 . Thus, in the crosstalk example of FIG. 5,subnet 220, including the devices contained therein, assigns itself a random wait time, whilesubnet 230 assigns a maximum random wait time. Likewise, each device in eachsubnet 220 and 230 assumes a random transmission delay when receiving RF signals. Therefore, the "worst case" in Figure 5 assumes the largest possible transmission delay, while the "best case" assumes the smallest possible transmission delay. Thus, as can be appreciated, the "worst case" timing forsubnet 220, as shown by blocks 502-518, occurs when the random latency is the maximum possible value. It should be appreciated that Figures 6B, 6C, 7B and 7C discussed below illustrate this worst case timing.

在本发明的一个实施例中，有四个可能的随机等待和五个传输时延值，它们可以分别被指定或假设。如同可以认识到的，任何数量的等待时间和/或传输时延值都同样与本发明的实施例相符合。另外，在一个实施例中，等待时间/传输时延的值是链接要求所必需的多个时间量。链接要求(link claim)可以是任何时间量，例如五个或14个半循环。根据一个实施例，当对子网230指定最大等待时间时，仅需要一个时序图，如由框520-534所示的。如能够从图5以及下面的图6到7中看出的，实线框表示实际的RF传输，虚线框表示RF时序。In one embodiment of the present invention, there are four possible random wait and five transmission delay values, which can be specified or assumed respectively. As can be appreciated, any number of latency and/or transmission delay values are equally consistent with embodiments of the present invention. Additionally, in one embodiment, the value of latency/transmission delay is as many amounts of time as is necessary for the link requirements. The link claim can be any amount of time, such as five or 14 half-cycles. According to one embodiment, only one timing diagram is required when specifying a maximum latency for asubnet 230, as illustrated by blocks 520-534. As can be seen from Figure 5 and Figures 6-7 below, the solid line boxes represent actual RF transmissions and the dashed line boxes represent RF timing.

在桥接器200发送时，桥接器200假设传输时延为零，因此允许桥接器200在命令一完成就能立即发送。如同可以认识到的，这种配置使桥接器200能够维持对子网220和230的控制，因为桥接器200始终能够在命令执行之后首先发送。一旦传输时延届满，如果有第二命令要执行，则可以向子网220和230重新传送链接要求，以确保RF保持自由。然后，该命令被重新传送到请求子网220并相应地执行。因此，尽管两个子网220和230都已接收到命令到来的消息，但只有请求子网220实际接收并执行该命令。When thebridge 200 transmits, thebridge 200 assumes that the transmission delay is zero, thus allowing thebridge 200 to transmit as soon as the command is completed. As can be appreciated, this configuration enablesbridge 200 to maintain control ofsubnets 220 and 230 becausebridge 200 is always able to send first after commands are executed. Once the transmission delay expires, if there is a second command to execute, the link request can be retransmitted tosubnets 220 and 230 to ensure that the RF remains free. The command is then retransmitted to the requestingsubnet 220 and executed accordingly. Therefore, although bothsubnets 220 and 230 have received the command arrival message, only the requestingsubnet 220 actually receives and executes the command.

因此，在从子网220接收到命令时，桥接器220向两个子网220和230都传送链接要求，以便“保留”该工作RF。如同可以认识到的，以及如上所述，从子网220接收的命令可以包括场景标识符。作为替换，这种命令可以包括对子网220中设备(例如照明控制设备12)的命令，以便实现所希望的照明场景。对子网220的初始链接要求由框502和502’表示，对子网230的链接要求由框520表示。框504和504’表示子网220在根据链接要求等待命令时的状态。通过子网220保留该RF，子网230暂时挂起其通信能力，以便桥接器200可以和子网220在没有干扰的情况下通信。Thus, upon receiving a command fromsubnet 220,bridge 220 transmits a link request to bothsubnets 220 and 230 in order to "reserve" the working RF. As can be appreciated, and as described above, commands received fromsubnet 220 may include a context identifier. Alternatively, such commands may include commands to devices insubnetwork 220, such aslighting control devices 12, in order to achieve a desired lighting scene. Initial link requirements forsubnetwork 220 are represented by blocks 502 and 502', and link requirements forsubnetwork 230 are represented by block 520. Blocks 504 and 504' represent the state ofsubnet 220 while waiting for commands based on link requirements. The RF is reserved bysubnet 220, andsubnet 230 temporarily suspends its communication capabilities so thatbridge 200 andsubnet 220 can communicate without interference.

框506和506’表示由子网220传送的命令，同时在框522，子网230继续等待。例如，框522表示子网230根据在框520已经接收到的链接要求在等待命令，但是如同可以认识到的，该命令没有到达。结果，子网230保持静止，这使得桥接器200和子网220中的设备能够在没有消息冲突威胁的情况下通信。在框508和508’，分别向子网220指定最坏情况和最好情况的随机等待时间，而在框524向子网230指定最大等待时间。如同下面结合图6和7所论述的，在本例子中，对于子网220的最坏情况的随机等待是小于最大可能随机等待时间的任何时间量。Blocks 506 and 506' represent commands transmitted bysubnet 220, while at block 522,subnet 230 continues to wait. For example, block 522 indicates thatsubnetwork 230 is waiting for a command based on the link request already received at block 520, but as can be appreciated, the command has not arrived. As a result,subnet 230 remains static, which enables devices inbridge 200 andsubnet 220 to communicate without the threat of message collisions. At blocks 508 and 508', thesubnet 220 is assigned a worst case and best case random latency, respectively, while at block 524 thesubnet 230 is assigned a maximum latency. As discussed below in conjunction with FIGS. 6 and 7, in this example, the worst case random wait forsubnet 220 is any amount of time less than the maximum possible random wait time.

在图5的示例性通信事件中，命令自动重发，以确保它被所有设备正确接收，从而在框510、510’和526，分别向子网220和230传送第二链接要求。在框512和512’，命令被重新传送到子网220，同时在框528，子网230等待命令。然后该命令由子网220中的所有设备确认，如由框514和514’所表示的。发送、接收和收集设备确认的任何方法都同样与本发明的实施例相符合。In the exemplary communication event of FIG. 5, the command is automatically retransmitted to ensure that it is correctly received by all devices, thereby communicating a second link request tosubnets 220 and 230, respectively, at blocks 510, 510' and 526. At blocks 512 and 512', the command is retransmitted to thesubnet 220, while at block 528, thesubnet 230 waits for the command. The command is then acknowledged by all devices in thesubnet 220, as represented by blocks 514 and 514'. Any method of sending, receiving and collecting device acknowledgments is also consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

如同可以认识到的，框514的最坏情况的确认对应例如具有大量设备的子网。在上面所述的系统的情况中，随着接近最大数量32个设备，可以得到更长的确认时间。同时，在框530，子网230继续等待。在框516和516’，交换位图，以确保例如子网220的主控制器11的显示器16更新。在框532，子网230继续等待。在命令序列完成之处，子网220在框518’(表示最小传输时延)以及在框518(表示最大传输时延)等待它假设的传输时延的持续时间。同样，在框534，子网230等待它的传输时延的持续时间。As can be appreciated, the worst-case validation of block 514 corresponds to, for example, a subnet with a large number of devices. in the above In the case of the system, longer confirmation times can be obtained as the maximum number of 32 devices is approached. Meanwhile, at block 530, thesubnet 230 continues to wait. At blocks 516 and 516', the bitmaps are exchanged to ensure that, for example, thedisplay 16 of themaster controller 11 of thesubnet 220 is updated. At block 532, thesubnet 230 continues to wait. At the completion of the command sequence,subnetwork 220 waits for the duration of its assumed transmission delay at block 518' (indicating minimum transmission delay) and at block 518 (indicating maximum transmission delay). Likewise, at block 534,subnet 230 waits for the duration of its transmission delay.

如同可以认识到的，以及如上所述，本发明一个实施例的功能是在子网220接收并执行它的命令期间，禁止子网230以该RF通信。根据该实施例，子网230必须等待，直到它的传输时延届满，并且在它能够尝试通信之前该RF是开放的并且可用的。As can be appreciated, and as described above, it is a function of one embodiment of the present invention to disablesubnetwork 230 from communicating at the RF whilesubnetwork 220 receives and executes its commands. According to this embodiment,subnet 230 must wait until its transmission delay expires and the RF is open and available before it can attempt to communicate.

到相同子网的相继命令Sequential commands to the same subnet

在一些实施例中，以及如上所述，桥接器200还能够通过假设传输时延的持续时间为零来维持对多个子网中的RF的控制。这允许桥接器200向相同的子网或不同的子网传送相继的命令。例如，当按下两个全局按钮时，为了传第二命令而重复传送一个命令的处理。如同图5中的情况，桥接器200阻止非请求子网(例如子网230)发送，同时将该两个命令相继传送到请求子网220。In some embodiments, and as described above, thebridge 200 is also capable of maintaining control of RF in multiple subnets by assuming that the duration of the transmission delay is zero. This allowsbridge 200 to transmit successive commands to the same subnet or different subnets. For example, when two global buttons are pressed, the process of transmitting one command is repeated in order to transmit the second command. As in the case of FIG. 5 ,bridge 200 prevents the non-requesting subnet (eg, subnet 230 ) from sending, while transmitting the two commands sequentially to requestingsubnet 220 .

现在转到图6A，示出了根据本发明一个实施例用于在单个子网中实现相继命令的通信协议的示例性时序图。图6A示出了将连续命令传送到相同子网中的处理，为了示例的目的，该子网为子网220。框602-612表示子网220的RF传输，框614和616表示子网220的RF时序，框618和620表示子网230的RF传输，框622和624表示子网230的RF时序。Turning now to FIG. 6A , an exemplary timing diagram of a communication protocol for implementing sequential commands in a single subnet is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6A shows the process of transmitting successive commands into the same subnet,subnet 220 for purposes of illustration. Blocks 602-612 represent RF transmissions forsubnet 220, blocks 614 and 616 represent RF timing forsubnet 220, blocks 618 and 620 represent RF transmissions forsubnet 230, and blocks 622 and 624 represent RF timing forsubnet 230.

在框602，在例如主控制器11或桥接器200上按下主按钮。在框604，发生随机传输时延，直到链接要求在框606被发送到子网220，以及在框618被发送到子网230，同时子网220在框614等待命令。在框608，发送用于实现示例性全局按钮的第一命令，同时限制最大等待时间小于作为例子的4个单位，如同在下面结合图6B更加详细论述的。应该理解，框608在功能上相当于在上面结合图5所述的框506-516。同时，子网230在框622等待。因为将发出第二命令，在框610和620发送链接要求，其中当子网220在框616等待命令时出现框620。在框612，发送用于实现示例性全局按钮2的第二命令，如同结合图6C所更详细论述的。同时，子网230在框624等待。Atblock 602 , a home button is pressed on, for example, themain controller 11 or thebridge 200 . Atblock 604 , a random transmission delay occurs until the link request is sent to subnet 220 atblock 606 and to subnet 230 at block 618 whilesubnet 220 waits for the command atblock 614 . Atblock 608, a first command is sent to implement an example global button while limiting the maximum latency to less than 4 units as an example, as discussed in more detail below in connection with FIG. 6B. It should be appreciated thatblock 608 is functionally equivalent to blocks 506-516 described above in connection with FIG. 5 . Meanwhile,subnet 230 waits atblock 622 . Because the second command will be issued, a link request is sent atblocks 610 and 620 , where block 620 occurs whilesubnet 220 is waiting for the command atblock 616 . Atblock 612, a second command is sent for implementing the example global button 2, as discussed in more detail in connection with FIG. 6C. Meanwhile,subnet 230 waits atblock 624 .

按照与上面结合图5所述的单个命令处理相类似的方式，在接收到来自子网220的信号之后，通过桥接器200向两个子网220和230传送链接要求，以保留RF用于请求子网220。在完成第一命令时，对非请求子网230指定最大随机等待时间，同时对请求子网220指定随机等待时间。因为请求子网(子网220)具有更小的等待时间，可以向子网230传送另一个链接要求，以便能够处理任何排队的按钮按压动作。这种对子网230的最大随机等待时间的指定是为桥接器200提供维持对RF的控制和继续与子网220通信的能力的手段。然后，相应完成对命令的执行。一旦由桥接器200执行并完成了最终的命令，则由子网220和230中的设备假设随机传输时延。In a manner similar to the single command processing described above in connection with FIG. 5 , after receiving a signal fromsubnet 220, a link request is transmitted to bothsubnets 220 and 230 through thebridge 200 to reserve RF for the requested subnet.Net 220. Upon completion of the first command, a maximum random wait time is assigned to thenon-requesting subnet 230 while a random wait time is assigned to the requestingsubnet 220 . Because the requesting subnet (subnet 220) has less latency, another link request can be sent to subnet 230 so that any queued button presses can be processed. This designation of a maximum random latency forsubnet 230 is a means forbridge 200 to maintain control of the RF and the ability to continue communicating withsubnet 220 . Then, execution of the command is completed accordingly. Random transmission delays are assumed by devices insubnets 220 and 230 once the final command is executed and completed bybridge 200 .

因此，转到图6B，示出了全局按钮1、图6A中框606、608、614、618和622的细节。如同能够从图6B中看出的，由框625-640示出了子网220的RF传输，由框642-656示出了子网230的RF传输。在框625、626和642出现了第一和第二链接要求，包括子网220等待命令同时在子网230中发出第二链接要求的时间。在框628，该命令被传送给子网220，同时子网230在框644等待命令。然后，在框630对子网220指定随机等待时间，在图6B的示例性实施例中，该时间是小于最大随机等待时间的某个时间量，如在图6B中示出为“max-1”，以指示小于最大值的一个等待时间。应该认识到，小于最大等待时间的任何时间量都同样与本发明的实施例相符合。Thus, turning to FIG. 6B, details ofglobal button 1,boxes 606, 608, 614, 618 and 622 in FIG. 6A are shown. As can be seen from Figure 6B, the RF transmissions of thesubnet 220 are shown by blocks 625-640 and the RF transmissions of thesubnet 230 are shown by blocks 642-656. The first and second link requests occur atblocks 625 , 626 and 642 , including thetime subnet 220 waits for a command while the second link request is issued insubnet 230 . Atblock 628 , the command is transmitted to subnet 220 whilesubnet 230 waits for the command atblock 644 .Subnet 220 is then assigned a random wait time atblock 630, which in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 6B is some amount of time less than the maximum random wait time, as shown in FIG. 6B as "max-1 ” to indicate a wait time that is less than the maximum value. It should be appreciated that any amount of time less than the maximum latency is equally consistent with embodiments of the present invention.

在框646，对子网230指定最大等待时间。然后，如同在上面结合图4所论述的，在框632-636，发出另一个链接要求，重复该命令，从子网220收集确认，同时在框648-652，子网230等待。在框638收集位图，同时在框654，子网230等待。最后，在框640和656，子网220和230分别等待它们假设的传输时延的持续时间。Atblock 646, thesubnet 230 is assigned a maximum latency. Then, as discussed above in connection with FIG. 4, another link request is issued at blocks 632-636, the command is repeated, and acknowledgments are collected fromsubnet 220 whilesubnet 230 waits at blocks 648-652. Atblock 638 the bitmap is collected, while atblock 654 thesubnet 230 waits. Finally, atblocks 640 and 656,subnets 220 and 230, respectively, wait for the duration of their assumed transmission delay.

现在转到图6C，如同可以认识到的，全局按钮2的细节，对应图6A中的框610、612、616、620和624，按照如上面结合图6B所述相同的方式出现。如同能够从图6C中看出的，子网200的RF传输由框658-674示出，子网230的RF传输由框676-690示出。第一和第二链接要求出现在框658、660和676，其包括子网220等待命令而在子网230中发出第二链接要求的时间。在框662，命令被发给子网220，同时在框678子网230等待命令。然后，在框664向子网220指定随机等待时间，在图6B中，该时间为小于最大随机等待时间的时间量，同时在框680向子网230中指定最大等待时间。然后，如同在上面结合图4所论述的，在框666-670，发出另一个链接要求，重复该命令，并从子网220收集确认，同时在框682-686子网230等待。如同上面图6B中的情况，在框672收集位图，同时子网230在框688等待。最后，在框674和690，子网220和230分别等待它们假设的传输时延的持续时间。Turning now to Figure 6C, as can be appreciated, the details of Global Button 2, corresponding toboxes 610, 612, 616, 620 and 624 in Figure 6A, appear in the same manner as described above in connection with Figure 6B. As can be seen from Figure 6C, the RF transmissions ofsubnet 200 are shown by blocks 658-674, and the RF transmissions ofsubnet 230 are shown by blocks 676-690. The first and second link requests occur atblocks 658 , 660 and 676 , which include thetime subnet 220 waits for a command to issue a second link request insubnet 230 . Atblock 662, the command is issued tosubnet 220, while atblock 678subnet 230 waits for the command.Subnet 220 is then assigned a random wait time atblock 664 , which in FIG. 6B is an amount of time less than the maximum random wait time, while the maximum wait time is assigned to subnet 230 atblock 680 . Then, as discussed above in connection with FIG. 4, at blocks 666-670, another link request is issued, the command is repeated, and an acknowledgment is collected fromsubnet 220 whilesubnet 230 waits at blocks 682-686. As in the case of FIG. 6B above, the bitmap is collected atblock 672 whilesubnet 230 waits atblock 688 . Finally, atblocks 674 and 690,subnets 220 and 230, respectively, wait for the duration of their assumed transmission delay.

在不同子网中的相继命令Sequential commands on different subnets

如同上面结合图6A-C所述的在相同子网中实现相继命令的情况，在两个子网系统的实施例中，桥接器200将通过向子网220和230传送链接要求来响应来自主控制器11的按钮按下动作，以保留该RF用于通信。与上面结合图7A-C所示出的方法相比，在交换子网220和230之间的区别是执行第二命令的位置和在传送第二命令之前添加的额外的链接要求。如同在下面结合图7A-C所论述的，该额外的链接要求是确保在传送下一个命令之前RF畅通。开放的RF似的桥接器200具有将另一个命令传送到子网220或子网230的灵活性。As in the case of implementing successive commands in the same subnet as described above in connection with FIGS. button press action of thetransmitter 11 to reserve the RF for communication. Compared to the method shown above in connection with Figures 7A-C, the difference between the switchedsubnets 220 and 230 is the location where the second command is executed and the additional linking requirement added before the second command is transmitted. As discussed below in connection with Figures 7A-C, this additional link requirement is to ensure that the RF is clear before transmitting the next command. Open RF-like bridge 200 has the flexibility to transmit another command to subnet 220 orsubnet 230 .

现在转到图7A，示出了根据本发明一个实施例跨两个子网220和230实现相继命令的通信协议的示例性时序图。图7A示出了将相继命令传送到两个不同子网的处理，为了示例目的，所述子网为子网220和230。框702-712表示子网220的RF传输，框714-718表示子网220的RF时序，框720-724表示子网230的RF传输，框726-728表示子网230的RF时序。如同上面所述的图6A中的框602的情况，在框702，在例如主控制器11或桥接器200上按下主按钮。在框704，发生随机传输时延，直到链接要求在框706被发送到子网220，以及在框720被发送到子网230，同时子网220在框714等待命令。Turning now to FIG. 7A , an exemplary timing diagram of a communication protocol for implementing sequential commands across twosubnets 220 and 230 is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A shows the process of transmitting successive commands to two different subnets,subnets 220 and 230 for illustration purposes. Blocks 702-712 represent RF transmissions forsubnet 220, blocks 714-718 represent RF timing forsubnet 220, blocks 720-724 represent RF transmissions forsubnet 230, and blocks 726-728 represent RF timing forsubnet 230. As in the case ofblock 602 in FIG. 6A described above, atblock 702 the master button is pressed on, for example, themaster controller 11 orbridge 200 . Atblock 704 , a random transmission delay occurs until the link request is sent to subnet 220 atblock 706 and to subnet 230 atblock 720 whilesubnet 220 waits for the command atblock 714 .

在框708，发送用于实现示例性全局按钮1的第一命令，同时限制随机等待时间小于最大随机等待时间。同时，在框726子网230等待。由于此时第二命令将发到子网230中，因此在框710和722对两个子网220和230都发送链接要求，其中，进行框722，同时在框716子网220等待命令。在框712，与图6A的例子不同，第二链接要求被发给子网220，以防止在框724桥接器200完成到子网230中的所有命令之前最大等待周期届满。因此，在框728，子网230等待命令。另外，第二链接要求确保来自子网220或230的任何待处理的RF业务在该子网中排队，以避免消息冲突。因此，桥接器200确保它将维持对每个子网220和230的控制，同时发送新命令和/或在子网220和230之间切换。Atblock 708, a first command for implementing the exampleglobal button 1 is sent while limiting the random latency to be less than the maximum random latency. Meanwhile, atblock 726 thesubnet 230 waits. Since the second command will now be sent tosubnet 230, a link request is sent to bothsubnets 220 and 230 atblocks 710 and 722, wherein block 722 is performed whilesubnet 220 waits for the command atblock 716. Atblock 712 , unlike the example of FIG. 6A , a second link request is issued tosubnet 220 to prevent the maximum wait period from expiring beforebridge 200 completes all commands intosubnet 230 atblock 724 . Accordingly, atblock 728, thesubnet 230 waits for the command. Additionally, the second link requirement ensures that any pending RF traffic from eithersubnet 220 or 230 is queued in that subnet to avoid message collisions. Thus, thebridge 200 ensures that it will maintain control of eachsubnet 220 and 230 while sending new commands and/or switching between thesubnets 220 and 230 .

应该认识到，向子网220中发送第二链接要求的必要性是在链接要求之后创建最小可能等待时间的结果。当桥接器200仅与一个子网通信时，该子网例如是子网220，如同上面图6B-C中的情况以及下面图7B中的情况，子网230的等待时段将不允许它在子网220活动时开始在RF链路上发送。然而，如同下面图7C中的情况，当子网220接收到链接要求，然后等待子网230接收链接要求和命令，然后等待最大随机等待时，如果子网230被指定了接近最大随机等待的长随机等待，那么有可能子网220可以在子网230完成之前开始发送RF信号。因此，到子网220的第二链接要求确保RF链接保持畅通。再次参考图7A，在框724，发送用于实现示例性全局按钮的第二命令，如同结合图7C更详细论述的。同时，在框718子网220等待。It should be appreciated that the necessity to send a second link request intosubnet 220 is a result of creating the smallest possible latency after the link request. Whenbridge 200 communicates with only one subnet, such assubnet 220, as in the case of Figures 6B-C above and in Figure 7B below, the latency ofsubnet 230 will not allow it to The net 220 starts to transmit on the RF link when it is active. However, as in the case of FIG. 7C below, whensubnet 220 receives a link request, then waits forsubnet 230 to receive a link request and command, and then waits for a maximum random wait, ifsubnet 230 is assigned a length close to the maximum random wait Waiting randomly, then it is possible thatsubnet 220 may start sending RF signals beforesubnet 230 is complete. Therefore, the second link to subnet 220 requires ensuring that the RF link remains open. Referring again to FIG. 7A, atblock 724, a second command is sent to implement the example global button, as discussed in more detail in connection with FIG. 7C. Meanwhile, atblock 718 thesubnet 220 waits.

现在转到图7B，示出全局按钮的细节，对应图7A中的框706、708、714和720。如同能够从图7B中看出的，子网220的RF传输由框725-740示出，子网230的RF传输由框742-756示出。在框725、727和742出现第一和第二链接要求，包括子网220等待命令同时在子网230中发出第二链接要求的时间。在框728，该命令被发给子网220，同时在框742，子网230等待命令。然后，在框730向子网220指定随机等待时间，在图7B的示例性实施例中该时间为小于最大随机等待时间的一个时间单位，同时在框746，向子网230指定最大随机等待时间。然后，如同上面结合图5和6B所论述的，在框732-736，发出另一个链接要求，重复命令，并从子网220收集确认，同时在框748-752子网230等待。在框738，收集位图，同时在框754，子网230等待。最后，在框740和756，子网220和230分别等待它们假设的传输时延的持续时间。Turning now to FIG. 7B, details of the global buttons are shown, corresponding toboxes 706, 708, 714 and 720 in FIG. 7A. As can be seen from Figure 7B, the RF transmissions ofsubnet 220 are shown by blocks 725-740 and the RF transmissions ofsubnet 230 are shown by blocks 742-756. The first and second link requests occur atblocks 725 , 727 and 742 , including thetime subnet 220 waits for a command while the second link request is issued insubnet 230 . Atblock 728, the command is sent tosubnet 220, while atblock 742,subnet 230 waits for the command. Then, atblock 730, a random wait time is assigned to thesubnet 220, which in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. . Then, as discussed above in connection with FIGS. 5 and 6B, at blocks 732-736, another link request is issued, the command is repeated, and confirmation is collected fromsubnet 220 whilesubnet 230 waits at blocks 748-752. Atblock 738, the bitmap is collected, while atblock 754, thesubnet 230 waits. Finally, atblocks 740 and 756,subnets 220 and 230, respectively, wait for the duration of their assumed transmission delay.

现在转到图7C，应该理解，全局按钮2的细节对应图7A中的框710、712、716、718、722、724和728，按照如上面结合图7A-B所述相同的方式出现。从图7C中能够看出，子网220的RF传输由框758-776示出，子网230的RF传输由框778-794示出。第一和第二链接要求出现在框758、760和778，其包括子网220等待命令而在子网230中发出第二链接要求的时间。如同上面结合图7A所述，在框762，发送第三链接要求(子网220中的第二个)，同时在框780子网230等待命令。在框782，命令被发给子网230，同时在框764，子网220等待命令。然后，在框784向子网230指定随机等待时间，在图7B中，该时间为小于最大随机等待时间的时间量，同时在框766向子网220指定最大等待时间。然后，如同在上面结合图5所论述的，在框786-790，发出另一个链接要求，重复该命令，并从子网230收集确认，同时在框768-772子网220等待。在框792收集位图，同时子网220在框774等待。最后，在框776和794，子网220和230分别等待它们假设的传输时延的持续时间。Turning now to Figure 7C, it should be appreciated that the details of Global Button 2 correspond toboxes 710, 712, 716, 718, 722, 724 and 728 in Figure 7A, appearing in the same manner as described above in connection with Figures 7A-B. As can be seen in FIG. 7C, the RF transmissions ofsubnet 220 are illustrated by blocks 758-776 and the RF transmissions ofsubnet 230 are illustrated by blocks 778-794. The first and second link requests occur atblocks 758 , 760 and 778 , which include thetime subnet 220 waits for a command to issue a second link request insubnet 230 . As described above in connection with FIG. 7A, atblock 762, a third link request (second of subnet 220) is sent, while atblock 780subnet 230 waits for the command. Atblock 782, the command is issued tosubnet 230, while atblock 764,subnet 220 waits for the command.Subnet 230 is then assigned a random wait time atblock 784 , which in FIG. 7B is an amount of time less than the maximum random wait time, whilesubnet 220 is assigned a maximum wait time atblock 766 . Then, as discussed above in connection with FIG. 5, at blocks 786-790, another link request is issued, the command is repeated, and an acknowledgment is collected fromsubnet 230 whilesubnet 220 waits at blocks 768-772. The bitmap is collected atblock 792 while thesubnet 220 waits atblock 774 . Finally, atblocks 776 and 794,subnets 220 and 230, respectively, wait for the duration of their assumed transmission delay.

因此，已经提供了用于桥接一个或更多RF控制的照明系统的方法和系统。尽管结合各附图中的示例性实施例描述了本发明，但应该理解，可以使用其他类似的实施例，或者可以对所描述的实施例进行修改和补充，用于执行与本发明相同的功能，而不偏离本发明。例如，本领域技术人员会认识到，在本申请中所描述的本发明可应用于在相同RF上无线通信的任何类型的电子设备，而不必局限于照明应用。因此，本发明不应该局限于任何单个实施例，而应认为是在根据所附权利要求的较宽的范围。Accordingly, methods and systems have been provided for bridging one or more RF controlled lighting systems. Although the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, it should be understood that other similar embodiments may be used, or that modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiments, for performing the same functions as the present invention , without departing from the invention. For example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention described in this application is applicable to any type of electronic device that communicates wirelessly over the same RF and is not necessarily limited to lighting applications. Therefore, the invention should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather should be construed in its broader scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims (48)

Translated fromChinese

1.一种无线照明控制系统，其中所有无线传输都使用相同的射频(RF)，该系统包括：1. A wireless lighting control system in which all wireless transmissions use the same radio frequency (RF), the system comprising:第一照明控制子网，在操作上连接到第一照明设备；a first lighting control subnetwork operatively connected to the first lighting device;第二照明控制子网，在操作上连接到第二照明设备；以及a second lighting control subnetwork operatively connected to a second lighting device; and桥接器，与第一和第二照明控制子网以及第一和第二照明控制设备无线地且操作地通信，a bridge in wireless and operative communication with the first and second lighting control subnetworks and the first and second lighting control devices,其中，在RF信号结束之后，所述桥接器在等待传输时延之后从所述第一照明控制子网接收RF信号并且向该第一和第二照明控制子网发送链接要求，Wherein, after the end of the RF signal, the bridge receives the RF signal from the first lighting control subnetwork after waiting for a transmission delay and sends a link request to the first and second lighting control subnetworks,其中所述链接请求指示第一和第二照明控制子网停止发送并且等待来自所述桥接器的随后照明控制命令，以及wherein the link request instructs the first and second lighting control subnets to stop sending and wait for subsequent lighting control commands from the bridge, and其中，所述桥接器向该第一照明控制子网发送关于该第一照明设备的命令，对所述第一照明控制子网指定随机等待时间，并对所述第二照明控制子网指定最大随机等待时间，并且从所述第一照明控制子网接收确认。Wherein, the bridge sends a command about the first lighting device to the first lighting control subnet, specifies a random waiting time for the first lighting control subnet, and specifies a maximum time for the second lighting control subnet. Waiting for a random time, and receiving an acknowledgment from said first lighting control subnetwork.2.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中所述RF信号包括与存储在所述桥接器中的照明场景相关的照明场景标识符。2. The system of claim 1, wherein the RF signal includes a lighting scene identifier associated with a lighting scene stored in the bridge.3.如权利要求2所述的系统，其中，所述RF信号包括与照明场景相关的照明命令，并且其中所述桥接器确定与该照明命令相关的照明场景。3. The system of claim 2, wherein the RF signal includes a lighting command associated with a lighting scene, and wherein the bridge determines the lighting scene associated with the lighting command.4.如权利要求2所述的系统，其中所述RF信号响应于所述第一照明控制子网中的主控制器上的按钮按下。4. The system of claim 2, wherein the RF signal is in response to a button press on a master controller in the first lighting control sub-network.5.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中，所述桥接器还包括显示器，其中所述显示器根据所述命令指示该第一和第二照明设备的状态。5. The system of claim 1, wherein the bridge further comprises a display, wherein the display indicates the status of the first and second lighting devices according to the command.6.如权利要求5所述的系统，其中所述显示器是LCD屏幕。6. The system of claim 5, wherein the display is an LCD screen.7.如权利要求6所述的系统，其中所述显示器是LED显示器。7. The system of claim 6, wherein the display is an LED display.8.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中所述第一照明控制子网包括主控制器。8. The system of claim 1, wherein the first lighting control sub-network comprises a master controller.9.如权利要求8所述的系统，其中，所述主控制器包括指示器，其中所述指示器根据所述命令显示该第一照明设备的状态。9. The system of claim 8, wherein the main controller includes an indicator, wherein the indicator displays the status of the first lighting device according to the command.10.如权利要求9所述的系统，其中所述指示器是LED显示器。10. The system of claim 9, wherein the indicator is an LED display.11.如权利要求9所述的系统，其中所述指示器是LCD屏幕。11. The system of claim 9, wherein the indicator is an LCD screen.12.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中所述第一照明控制子网包括照明控制设备。12. The system of claim 1, wherein the first lighting control subnetwork includes lighting control devices.13.如权利要求12所述的系统，其中所述照明控制设备是调光器。13. The system of claim 12, wherein the lighting control device is a dimmer.14.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中，该桥接器还向所述第一和第二照明控制子网发送第二链接要求，并且其中该桥接器还向所述第一照明控制子网发送关于该第一照明设备的第二命令，对所述第一照明控制子网指定第二随机等待时间，并对所述第二照明控制子网指定第二最大随机等待时间，并且该桥接器还从所述第一照明控制子网接收第二确认。14. The system of claim 1 , wherein the bridge also sends a second link request to the first and second lighting control subnetworks, and wherein the bridge also sends a second link request to the first lighting control subnetwork sending a second command regarding the first lighting device, specifying a second random wait time for the first lighting control subnet, and specifying a second maximum random wait time for the second lighting control subnet, and the bridge A second acknowledgment is also received from the first lighting control subnetwork.15.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中，所述桥接器还向所述第一和第二照明控制子网发送第二链接要求，并且向所述第一照明控制子网发送第三链接要求，并且其中该桥接器还向所述第二照明控制子网发送关于该第二照明设备的第三命令，对所述第二照明控制子网指定第三随机等待时间，并对所述第一照明控制子网指定第三最大随机等待时间，并且该桥接器还从所述第二照明控制子网接收第三确认。15. The system of claim 1 , wherein the bridge further sends a second link request to the first and second lighting control subnetworks and a third link request to the first lighting control subnetwork. requirements, and wherein the bridge also sends a third command about the second lighting device to the second lighting control subnetwork, assigns a third random wait time to the second lighting control subnetwork, and assigns a third random wait time to the second lighting control subnetwork A lighting control subnet specifies a third maximum random wait time, and the bridge also receives a third acknowledgment from said second lighting control subnet.16.如权利要求1所述的系统，其中所述桥接器在操作上连接到外部设备。16. The system of claim 1, wherein the bridge is operatively connected to an external device.17.如权利要求16所述的系统，其中所述桥接器通过RS-232连接在操作上连接到所述外部设备。17. The system of claim 16, wherein the bridge is operatively connected to the external device through an RS-232 connection.18.如权利要求16所述的系统，其中，所述桥接器从所述外部设备接收时间信息，根据所述桥接器的位置确定何时到达日出和日落时间，并相对于所述日出和日落时间发送链接要求。18. The system of claim 16, wherein the bridge receives time information from the external device, determines when sunrise and sunset times are reached based on the bridge's location, and relative to the sunrise and sunset time to send link requests.19.如权利要求16所述的系统，其中，所述桥接器从所述外部设备接收时间信息，并响应所接收的时间信息发送所述链接要求。19. The system of claim 16, wherein the bridge receives time information from the external device, and transmits the link request in response to the received time information.20.如权利要求16所述的系统，其中所述桥接器响应从所述外部设备接收的报警发送所述链接要求。20. The system of claim 16, wherein the bridge sends the link request in response to an alert received from the external device.21.一种用于在操作上互连第一和第二照明控制子网的方法，其中每个子网以相同的RF工作，该方法包括：21. A method for operatively interconnecting first and second lighting control subnetworks, wherein each subnetwork operates on the same RF, the method comprising:(a)从桥接器向所述第一和第二照明控制子网发送链接要求，其中所述链接要求指示所述第一和第二照明控制子网停止发送并且等待来自桥接器的随后照明控制命令；(a) sending a link request from the bridge to the first and second lighting control subnets, wherein the link request instructs the first and second lighting control subnets to stop sending and wait for a subsequent lighting control from the bridge Order;(b)向所述第一照明控制子网发送所述照明控制命令；(b) sending the lighting control command to the first lighting control subnetwork;(c)对所述第一照明控制子网指定随机等待时间；(c) assigning a random waiting time to said first lighting control subnetwork;(d)对所述第二照明控制子网指定最大随机等待时间；以及(d) assigning a maximum random wait time to said second lighting control subnetwork; and(e)从所述第一照明控制子网接收确认。(e) receiving an acknowledgment from said first lighting control subnetwork.22.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括响应所述桥接器上的按钮按下来执行步骤(a)。22. The method of claim 21, further comprising performing step (a) in response to a button press on the bridge.23.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括响应接收到由第一照明控制子网的主控制器发送的RF信号而执行步骤(a)。23. The method of claim 21, further comprising performing step (a) in response to receiving an RF signal transmitted by the master controller of the first lighting control subnetwork.24.如权利要求23所述的方法，还包括在执行步骤(a)之前等待随机传输时延。24. The method of claim 23, further comprising waiting for a random transmission delay before performing step (a).25.如权利要求23所述的方法，其中所述RF信号是由所述主控制器响应按钮按下而发送的。25. The method of claim 23, wherein the RF signal is sent by the master controller in response to a button press.26.如权利要求23所述的方法，其中所述RF信号包括与存储在所述桥接器上的假想按钮相关的照明场景标识符。26. The method of claim 23, wherein the RF signal includes a lighting scene identifier associated with a virtual button stored on the bridge.27.如权利要求23所述的方法，其中所述RF信号包括与照明场景相关的第二照明控制命令。27. The method of claim 23, wherein the RF signal includes a second lighting control command related to a lighting scene.28.如权利要求27所述的方法，还包括根据所述照明控制命令确定与所述照明场景相关的假想按钮。28. The method of claim 27, further comprising determining an imaginary button associated with the lighting scene based on the lighting control commands.29.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括重复步骤(a)～(d)。29. The method of claim 21, further comprising repeating steps (a)-(d).30.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括根据该确认在所述桥接器上显示每个子网的状态。30. The method of claim 21, further comprising displaying the status of each subnet on the bridge based on the confirmation.31.如权利要求30所述的方法，其中显示状态包括照亮LED。31. The method of claim 30, wherein displaying the status includes illuminating an LED.32.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括：32. The method of claim 21, further comprising:(f)从所述桥接器向所述第一和第二照明控制子网发送第二链接要求；(f) sending a second link request from the bridge to the first and second lighting control subnets;(g)从所述桥接器向所述第一照明控制子网发送第二照明控制命令；(g) sending a second lighting control command from the bridge to the first lighting control subnetwork;(h)对所述第一照明控制子网指定第二随机等待时间；(h) assigning a second random wait time to said first lighting control subnetwork;(i)对所述第二照明控制子网指定第二最大随机等待时间；以及(i) specifying a second maximum random wait time for said second lighting control subnetwork; and(j)从所述第一照明控制子网接收第二确认。(j) receiving a second acknowledgment from said first lighting control subnetwork.33.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括：33. The method of claim 21, further comprising:(f)从所述桥接器向所述第一和第二照明控制子网发送第二链接要求；(f) sending a second link request from the bridge to the first and second lighting control subnets;(g)从所述桥接器向所述第一照明控制子网发送第三链接要求；(g) sending a third link request from the bridge to the first lighting control subnetwork;(h)从所述桥接器向所述第二照明控制子网发送第三照明控制命令；(h) sending a third lighting control command from the bridge to the second lighting control subnetwork;(i)对所述第二照明控制子网指定第三随机等待时间；(i) assigning a third random wait time to said second lighting control subnetwork;(j)对所述第一照明控制子网指定第三最大随机等待时间；以及(j) assigning a third maximum random wait time to said first lighting control subnetwork; and(k)从所述第二照明控制子网接收第三确认。(k) receiving a third acknowledgment from the second lighting control subnetwork.34.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括：接收时间信息；根据所存储的信息和所接收的时间信息确定日出和日落时间；响应所述确定执行步骤(a)。34. The method of claim 21, further comprising: receiving time information; determining sunrise and sunset times from the stored information and the received time information; and performing step (a) in response to said determining.35.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括接收时间信息以及响应所述时间信息来执行步骤(a)。35. The method of claim 21, further comprising receiving time information and performing step (a) in response to said time information.36.如权利要求21所述的方法，还包括响应由所述桥接器接收的报警条件来执行步骤(a)。36. The method of claim 21, further comprising performing step (a) in response to an alert condition received by the bridge.37.一种桥接器，其包括：37. A bridge comprising:显示设备，用于向用户呈现信息；a display device for presenting information to the user;存储器，用于存储信息；memory for storing information;发射机，用于以预定的RF向第一和第二子网发送消息；a transmitter for sending a message to the first and second subnets at a predetermined RF;接收机，用于以所述预定的RF从所述第一和第二子网接收消息；a receiver for receiving messages from said first and second subnets at said predetermined RF;输入/输出设备，用于接收或传送信息；以及input/output devices for receiving or transmitting information; and处理器，其中，所述处理器在操作上连接到所述存储器、发射机、接收机、显示器和输入/输出设备，并且其中所述处理器通过所述发射机向所述第一和第二子网发送链接要求，其中所述链接请求指示所述第一和第二子网停止发送并且等待来自桥接器的随后命令，以及processor, wherein said processor is operatively connected to said memory, transmitter, receiver, display and input/output devices, and wherein said processor communicates to said first and second a subnet sends a link request, wherein the link request instructs the first and second subnets to stop sending and wait for a subsequent command from the bridge, and所述处理器还向所述第一子网发送第一命令和随机等待时间，向所述第二子网发送最大随机等待时间，并通过所述接收机从所述第一子网接收确认。The processor also sends a first command and a random wait time to the first subnet, sends a maximum random wait time to the second subnet, and receives an acknowledgment from the first subnet via the receiver.38.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中所述处理器响应通过所述接收机接收来自所述第一子网的主控制器的信号来发送链接要求。38. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the processor sends a link request in response to receiving a signal via the receiver from a master controller of the first subnetwork.39.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中所述显示器呈现与第一和第二子网相关的状态信息。39. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the display presents status information related to the first and second subnets.40.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中所述显示设备是LCD屏幕。40. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the display device is an LCD screen.41.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中所述显示设备是LED显示器。41. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the display device is an LED display.42.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中所述输入/输出是RS-232连接。42. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the input/output is an RS-232 connection.43.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中，所述输入/输出适于接收报警信号，并且所述处理器适于响应所述报警信号来传送所述链接要求。43. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the input/output is adapted to receive an alert signal, and the processor is adapted to communicate the link request in response to the alert signal.44.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中所述处理器还通过所述发射机以预定的RF向照明控制设备发送命令。44. The bridge of claim 37, wherein said processor also sends commands to a lighting control device via said transmitter at a predetermined RF.45.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中，所述第一子网包括第一主控制器和第一照明控制设备，并且所述第二子网包括第二主控制器和第二照明控制设备。45. The bridge of claim 37, wherein the first subnetwork includes a first master controller and a first lighting control device, and the second subnetwork includes a second master controller and a second lighting control device controlling device.46.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，其中，所述处理器还通过所述发射机向所述第一和第二子网发送第二链接要求，并且其中所述处理器还通过所述发射机向所述第一子网发送第二命令和第二随机等待时间，并通过所述发射机向所述第二子网发送第二最大随机等待时间，并且其中所述处理器还通过所述接收机从所述第一子网接收第二确认。46. The bridge of claim 37, wherein said processor also sends a second link request to said first and second subnets via said transmitter, and wherein said processor also transmits a second link request via said transmitter The transmitter sends a second command and a second random wait time to the first subnet, and sends a second maximum random wait time to the second subnet through the transmitter, and wherein the processor also transmits a second maximum random wait time through the transmitter The receiver receives a second acknowledgment from the first subnet.47.如权利要求37所述的桥接器，所述处理器还通过所述发射机向所述第一和第二子网发送第二链接要求，并且通过所述发射机向所述第一子网发送第三链接要求，以及其中所述处理器还向所述第二子网发送第三命令和第三随机等待时间，以及通过所述发射机向所述第一子网发送第三最大随机等待时间，以及其中所述处理器还通过所述接收机从所述第二子网接收第三确认。47. The bridge of claim 37, said processor further sending a second link request to said first and second subnets via said transmitter, and sending a second link request to said first subnet via said transmitter network sends a third link request, and wherein the processor also sends a third command and a third random wait time to the second subnet, and sends a third maximum random wait time to the first subnet through the transmitter. waiting time, and wherein the processor also receives a third acknowledgment from the second subnet via the receiver.48.如权利要求44所述的桥接器，其中所述RF是390MHz、418MHz或434MHz之一。48. The bridge of claim 44, wherein the RF is one of 390 MHz, 418 MHz or 434 MHz.

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