Method of adding a device to a network
US6901439B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 20, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 31, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 20, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05B47/198
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method of adding a device to an existing or new electrical or electronic automation or multimedia network. The invention facilitates adding a device to the network that can communicate using various protocols such as LonWorks, CEBus, X-10, etc. over media such as AC power line, IR, RF, twisted pair, optical fiber, etc. The method is a mechanism for adding a device to a system that can be used by an ordinary user of network capable electrical devices. The method comprises the steps an installer would perform including the handshaking that needs to occur between devices to accomplish the binding process. A Functional Profile for LonWorks networks is given as an example. This includes a Home Device profile that employs an automated explicit type messaging for all devices intended for use in a home environment. The invention includes adding to the device an install button and a visual indicator for status such as an LED. Alternatively, existing buttons and LEDs on the device may be used for installed and binding purposes. Other methods of binding can be employed by the use of wired or wireless handheld tools, remote controls, etc. Other interfaces and user feedback can be used such a…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.