METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR IDENTIFYING AND CATEGORIZING DISTRIBUTED DEVICES

摘要

Systems for identifying and categorizing distributed devices, e.g., lighting fixtures and thermostats, is disclosed. In an embodiment, a user (200) sends a low power discovery message to devices (201) using a portable programming tool (100). The devices (201) within range respond with identification information. The portable programming tool (100) organizes the responses by proximity and sends a “flash” message to the device with the closest perceived proximity. That device responds with a visual or audible signal (202), allowing the user (200) to determine whether that device is the one intended for selection. If so, the user initiates a store routine in which identification information, including category information, is stored in one or more locations, such as, the selected device (201), the portable programming tool (100), and/or a central or local controller (1100). The identification and categorization can, for example, be used to automate load shedding and to reduce energy consumption.

主权项

1. A controller for use with an electrical device which needs to be identified and categorized, said controller comprising a microprocessor subunit and a transceiver subunit;
wherein said microprocessor subunit is programmed to perform at least the following functions:
(i) receive an RF discovery request from a programming tool using said transceiver subunit;(ii) transmit an RF signal to a programming tool using said transceiver subunit, the RF signal comprising an identification number for said electrical device;(iii) cause a human-perceivable visual or audible signal to be produced in response to an RF signal from a programming tool; and(iv) store category information for said electrical device, where category information is:
(a) information other than said electrical device's identification number by which said electrical device can be selectively communicated with, and(b) information that can be changed from time-to-time.