Inventors:
George Bucci - Southington CT, US
Assignee:
Pyramid Meriden Inc. - Meriden CT
International Classification:
H04Q 5/22
US Classification:
340 1042, 340 101, 340 102, 340 103, 340 1031, 340 1032, 340 1033, 340 1034, 340 104, 340 1041, 340 105, 340 106, 34053911, 34053921, 34053922, 34053923, 340 1051, 340 1052, 3405721, 3405722, 3405723, 3405724, 3405725, 3405726, 3405727, 3405728, 3405729
Abstract:
Systems for identifying and categorizing distributed devices, e. g. , lighting fixtures and thermostats, is disclosed. In an embodiment, a user () sends a low power discovery message to devices () using a portable programming tool (). The devices () within range respond with identification information. The portable programming tool () 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 (), allowing the user () 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 (), the portable programming tool (), and/or a central or local controller (). The identification and categorization can, for example, be used to automate load shedding and to reduce energy consumption.