Multiple channel ballast and networkable topology and system including power line carrier applications
First Claim
1. A multi-branch control system comprising:
- a. a plurality of independently controllable electrical circuit branches, each said branch including a branch remote control unit (BRCU), said branches connected to a common power source; and
b. power line carrier (PLC) communication means connecting said branches to allow inter-branch operability.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Control systems and methods for independent control of power systems, particularly lighting network branches, and separate control of individual branch components. Multi-branch systems comprise independently controllable branches that inter-communicate via PLC communications. In each branch, components such as ballasts, local control units, sensors, actuators, and repeaters, may exchange commands and queries independently of a branch remote control unit (BRCU). Alternatively, a BRCU may manage or arbitrate communications, or interact with other BRCUs, other control units and external management systems. Ballasts include a multi-channel ballast that enables close-loop control of individual fixtures, or of individual dimmable or non-dimmable lamps within a fixture. The close-loop control is facilitated by sampling circuits/sensors co-located with each controlled fixture or lamp. All controllers are preferably implemented using an integrated digital controller. The PLC communication is preferably carried out by a direct spread spectrum method that eliminates side lobes from a cross-correlation function, using an anti-collision protocol.
26 Citations
15 Claims
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1. A multi-branch control system comprising:
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a. a plurality of independently controllable electrical circuit branches, each said branch including a branch remote control unit (BRCU), said branches connected to a common power source; and b. power line carrier (PLC) communication means connecting said branches to allow inter-branch operability. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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Specification