FR3147656A1 - Method for configuring a home automation installation. - Google Patents

Abstract

Process for configuring a home automation installation. Method for configuring a home automation installation (100) comprising: - at least one first home automation device (3a), - at least one second home automation device (3b), - at least one first remote control (12a), in particular at least one first remote control (12a) configured to control the first home automation device (3a) so that the first remote control and the first home automation device are part of a first network, and - at least one second remote control (12b) configured to control the second home automation device (3b), the second remote control and the second home automation device being part of a second network, the method comprising the following steps: - a step of requesting resetting the membership of the second remote control (12b) to the second network, - a step of sending, by the second remote control (12b), a command to switch the at least one second home automation device (3b) to a home automation device configuration mode, the sending step being triggered automatically by the taking into account of the first remote control (12b) and the second remote control (12b). taking into account, by the second remote control (12b), the reset request,- a step of sharing information between (i) the first remote control (12a) or a third remote control and (ii) the second remote control (12b) such that the first or third remote control and the second remote control (12a, 12b) are part of a common network,- a step of adding to the common network the at least one second home automation device (3b), the step of adding to the common network taking place while the at least one second home automation device is maintained in the home automation device configuration mode. Figure for abstract: Figure 4

Description

Method for configuring a home automation installation.

The present invention relates to a method for configuring a home automation installation. The invention also relates to a remote control configured to implement such a configuration method. The invention further relates to a home automation device configured to implement such a configuration method. Finally, the invention relates to a computer program, a data storage medium and a signal from a data medium in connection with the configuration method.

In the field of home automation installations, some home automation devices are controlled by one or more remote controls via a wireless communication protocol, for example a Zigbee protocol. A set of home automation devices of the home automation installation, these devices being intended to communicate and interact with each other, constitutes at least part of a network.

The Zigbee protocol has a mesh network type operation which requires the presence in the network of a device powered by the mains and which serves as a repeater. At least one repeater has a coordinator function, that is to say master of the network, which will designate the relationships and functions of the other members of the mesh network.

A home automation box or smart gateway type device can connect the network to other terminals via an external link to a physical or virtual server, also called a cloud. As a mains-powered device, the home automation box can act as a repeater. The home automation box also generally takes on the role of network coordinator. The coordinator of a mesh network can carry out operations to discover the home automation devices in the network installation and create the links necessary for building and meshing the network.

In a manner compatible with the Zigbee protocol, in an unconnected mode, i.e. without a repeater or coordinator and without a link to a server, it is possible to associate two devices with each other, typically a remote control and an electrical appliance within a network. In this unconnected mode, the principle is a simple connection, without having to go through the network coordinator and without using an advanced interface, such as that of a smartphone. This function is identified in the context of the Zigbee protocol under the name of "Touchlink". It traditionally allows one or more devices such as a light bulb to be associated with a remote control. It is similar to local programming, usually activated by at least one action by a user or installer on a mechanical element of the device to be connected (for example, pressing a button on the electrical appliance). This association in unconnected mode may also extend to an installation without equipment powered on the network.

This association in offline mode has several advantages:
- The operation is faster than when the coordinator has to carry out an equipment discovery, since the exchange is done directly between two selected electrical devices.
- The offline mode ensures that the scenario works even if the coordinator, in particular the home automation box, is not yet installed or is out of service.
- Association in offline mode is an option that is added to the possibility of carrying out the association managed by the coordinator.

When adding a new group remote control to an existing installation that includes at least one existing remote control (i.e. when associating a new remote control with one or more home automation devices that are already part of a network), the network thus modified must be common to all remote controls (the existing remote control(s) and the added remote control). To do this, the remote controls, already associated with home automation devices in a first network, must be removed from their first network in order to be grouped together in a new group network.

In some protocols, notably the Zigbee protocol, removing a remote control from a subnet requires the remote control to delete all its functional links with the home automation devices with which it is paired.

Once the remote control is in the new group network, the user or installer must recreate the old functional links deleted between the remote control and the home automation devices.

As seen previously, to recreate functional links in a mesh network, for example of the Zigbee type, the home automation devices must switch to a configuration or programming mode, for example the Touchlink mode of the Zigbee protocol, and the remote control must also be switched to such a configuration or programming mode.

To put a home automation device into such a configuration or programming mode (unless you are dealing with a home automation device that remains permanently in configuration mode), it is necessary to act on an interface of the home automation device, for example to press a button on the home automation device for 2 seconds. When the home automation device is a motor or actuator for driving a blind, a roller shutter or more generally a screen and when the motor or actuator is installed, it is difficult to access and may require the user or installer to perform an additional operation, in particular dismantling or accessing the interface.

The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned drawbacks and to propose a configuration method improving the known configuration methods. In particular, the configuration method according to the invention makes it possible to facilitate the configuration of an installation when it is desired to install a new remote control to control one or more home automation devices on the network, in particular in a non-connected mode of the network.

According to the invention, the method for configuring a home automation installation comprising:
- at least one first home automation device,
- at least one second home automation device,
- at least one first remote control, in particular at least one first remote control configured to control the first home automation device so that the first remote control and the first home automation device are part of a first network, and
- at least one second remote control configured to control the second home automation device, the second remote control and the second home automation device being part of a second network,
includes the following steps:
- a step requesting a reset of the membership of the second remote control to the second network,
- a step of sending, by the second remote control, a command to switch the at least one second home automation device to a home automation device configuration mode, the sending step being triggered automatically by the second remote control taking into account the reset request,
- a step of sharing information between (i) the first remote control or a third remote control and (ii) the second remote control such that the first or third remote control and the second remote control are part of a common network,
- a step of adding at least one second home automation device to the common network,
the step of adding to the common network taking place while the at least one second home automation device is maintained in the home automation device configuration mode.

In the information sharing step, the information exchanged may be such that the first and second remote controls become part of the first network at the end of this step.

The at least one first remote control may be configured to control the first home automation device such that the first remote control and the first home automation device are part of a first network and the step of sharing information between the first remote control or a third remote control and the second remote control such that the first or third remote control and the second remote control are part of a common network may include a step of creating a third network distinct from the first network and the second network, the third network constituting the common network.

The method may include the following steps:
- a step requesting a reset of the membership of the first remote control to the first network,
- a step of sending, by the first remote control, a command to switch the at least one first home automation device to a home automation device configuration mode, the sending step being triggered automatically by the first remote control taking into account the reset request,
- a step of adding to the common network the at least one first home automation device, the step of adding to the common network taking place while the at least one first home automation device is maintained in the home automation device configuration mode.

The home automation device configuration mode may include a mode of waiting for a request to add to a new network, in particular a “Touchlink” mode of a “Zigbee” protocol, the addition to a new network involving forgetting the home automation device’s belonging network.

The home automation device configuration mode can be maintained for a maximum specified duration, including a duration of between 10 minutes and 20 minutes, typically 15 minutes.

The home automation device configuration mode may be a mode allowing communication between a first or second home automation device and a remote control provided that the remote control is in proximity to the home automation device, typically less than 2 meters or less than 1.5 meters.

Requesting a reset of the first remote and/or second remote may cause it to enter a remote configuration mode.

The remote control configuration mode may include a waiting mode for sharing information, including a “Touchlink” mode of a “Zigbee” protocol, sharing information relating to a new network involving forgetting the network to which the remote control belongs.

The remote control configuration mode can be maintained for a maximum specified duration, including a duration between 2 minutes and 4 minutes, typically 3 minutes.

The remote control configuration mode may be a mode that allows information sharing with another remote control provided that the remote controls are in close proximity to each other, typically within 2 meters or within 1.5 meters.

Network membership can be defined by a network identifier.

Communication between a remote control and a home automation device belonging to the same network can be defined by a group identifier.

The invention also relates to a remote control comprising hardware and/or software elements implementing the method defined above, in particular hardware and/or software elements designed to implement the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a remote control comprising means for implementing the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a home automation device comprising hardware and/or software elements implementing the method defined above, in particular hardware and/or software elements designed to implement the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a home automation device comprising means for implementing the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a computer program product comprising program code instructions recorded on a computer-readable medium for implementing the steps of the method defined above when said program operates on a computer.

The invention also relates to a computer program product downloadable from a communications network and/or recorded on a data medium readable by a computer and/or executable by a computer, characterized in that it comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by the computer, cause the latter to implement the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a data recording medium, readable by a computer, on which is recorded a computer program comprising program code instructions for implementing the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a computer-readable recording medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the latter to implement the method defined above.

The invention also relates to a signal of a data medium, carrying the computer program product defined above.

Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description, with reference to the attached drawings, given as non-limiting examples:

there is a schematic cross-sectional view of two home automation devices in a home automation system;

there is a schematic perspective view of two home automation devices in the home automation system;

there is a schematic view in partial longitudinal section of a home automation device of a home automation installation;

there is a block diagram of an algorithm of a first mode of execution of a configuration method according to the invention;

there is a block diagram of an algorithm of a second mode of execution of a configuration method according to the invention.

First, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a home automation installation 100 is described. The home automation installation is, for example, a closing, concealing or solar protection installation 100 according to the invention and linked to a building. The installation 100 comprises home automation devices 3a, 3b such as, for example, concealing devices 3a, 3b, in particular motorized blinds equipped with screens 2a, 2b, placed at openings 1a, 1b of the building. The openings 1a, 1b are, for example, windows or doors.

The occultation devices 3a, 3b may be interior or exterior blinds with screens 2a, 2b made of fabric or, possibly, with adjustable slats. The present invention, however, applies to all types of occultation devices and more generally to all types of home automation devices.

In the installation shown, the installation 100 comprises the occultation devices 3a, 3b. The occultation devices 3a, 3b can be fixed on a structure of the building or on a structure annexed to the building, for example on a structure of a pergola or an arbour.

Blinds forming part of embodiments of the invention are described in more detail with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

The screens 2a, 2b of the occultation devices 3a, 3b are wound on winding tubes 4a, 4b driven by motorized drive devices 5a, 5b. The screens 2a, 2b are movable between a wound position, in particular high in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, and an unwound position, in particular low in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2.

The installation 100 comprises the motorized drive devices 5a, 5b.

The movable screens 2a, 2b of the occultation devices 3a, 3b are closing, occultation and/or sun protection screens, rolling up on the winding tubes 4a, 4ba, 4b whose internal diameter is substantially greater than the external diameter of electromechanical actuators 11a, 11b, so that the electromechanical actuators 11a, 11b can be inserted into the winding tubes 4a, 4b, when assembling the occultation devices 3a, 3b.

The motorized drive devices 5a, 5b each comprise an electromechanical actuator 11a, 11b, in particular of the tubular type, making it possible to rotate a winding tube 4a, 4ba, 4b, so as to move, in particular unroll or wind, a screen 2a, 2ba, 2b, of the occultation device 3a, 3b.

A shading device 3a, 3b comprises the screen 2a, 2ba, 2b, the winding tube 4a, 4b and the motorized drive device 5a, 5b for moving the screen 2a, 2ba, 2b. In the mounted state, the electromechanical actuators 11a, 11b are respectively inserted into the winding tubes 4a, 4b.

The blinds, which are part of the occultation devices 3a, 3b, may comprise aprons comprising flexible fabrics, forming the screens 2a, 2b of the blinds, the fabrics being able to be rolled up on the winding tubes 4a, 4b and possibly guided by two lateral slides 6a, 6b. Alternatively to a screen consisting of a fabric, the blind comprises horizontal slats, integrated into a fabric or suspended by cords. The slides may be made in uprights of a pergola structure and the screen may be arranged vertically or substantially vertically. Alternatively or in addition, the slides may be made in side members or crosspieces of a pergola structure and the screen may be arranged horizontally or substantially horizontally.

The rolled-up high position corresponds to the positioning of a load bar 8a, 8b, of the apron 2a, 2b of the blind 3a, 3b at an edge of a box 9a, 9b of the occultation device 3a, 3b or to the stopping of the load bar 8a, 8b in a programmed high end-of-travel position. In addition, the unrolled low position corresponds to the support of the load bar 8a, 8b of the apron 2a, 2b of the blind 3a, 3b on a threshold 7 or to the stopping of the load bar 8a, 8b in a programmed low end-of-travel position.

Here, the screen 2a, 2b is configured to be moved, by means of the motorized drive device 5a, 5b, between an open position, corresponding to the rolled-up position and which can also be called the upper end-of-travel position FdcH, and a closed position, corresponding to the unrolled position and which can also be called the lower end-of-travel position FdcB.

In the case of a slatted blind, the different slats of the blind are preferably suspended via cords intended to be wound onto the roller tube or unwound from the roller tube so as to fold up or unfold the screen.

In the case of a blind 3a, 3b having a canvas screen 2a, 2b, the screen is directly rolled up or unrolled from the winding tubes 4a, 4b so as to fold up or unfold the blind.

The winding tubes 4a, 4b are arranged inside the boxes 9a, 9b of the blinds 3a, 3b. The apron 2a, 2b of the blind 3a, 3b winds and unwinds around the winding tube 4a, 4b and is housed at least partly inside the box 9a, 9b.

Generally, the box 9a, 9b is fixed to the structure, for example at the level of an opening in the structure.

The motorized drive device 5a is controlled by a local control unit 12a or remote control. The motorized drive device 5b is controlled by a local control unit 12b or remote control. The local control units 12a, 12b can be connected by wireless connection to a central control unit 13. The central control unit can be a group remote control or a home automation box. A group remote control includes its own power source and is therefore a product not powered by the mains, unlike a home automation box. The home automation box can operate in connected mode or in non-connected mode.

The motorized drive devices 5a, 5b are preferably configured to execute the movement commands, in particular deployment or retraction, of the screens 2a, 2b of the occultation devices 3a, 3b, which can be emitted, in particular, by the local control unit 12a, 12b or the central control unit 13.

The installation 100 comprises either the local control unit 12a, 12b, or the central control unit 13, or the local control unit 12a, 12b and the central control unit 13.

We will now describe in more detail and with reference to the , a motorized drive device, including the electromechanical actuator 11, belonging to the installation 100 of figures 1, 2. This description may concern the motorized drive device 5a as well as the motorized drive device 5b since the indices “a” and “b” are not used in the references in this figure.

Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 comprises an electric motor 16. The electric motor 16 comprises a rotor and a stator, not shown and positioned coaxially around an axis of rotation X, which is also the axis of rotation of the winding tube 4 in the mounted configuration of the motorized drive device.

Means for controlling the electromechanical actuator 11, allowing the movement of the screen 2 of the occultation device 3, are constituted by at least one electronic control unit 15. This electronic control unit 15 is capable of operating the electric motor 16 of the electromechanical actuator 11, and, in particular, allowing the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor 16.

Thus, the electronic control unit 15 controls, in particular, the electric motor 16, so as to open or close the screen 2, as described previously.

The control means of the electromechanical actuator 11 comprise hardware and/or software means.

By way of non-limiting example, the hardware means may include at least one microcontroller 31.

The electronic control unit 15 comprises at least a first communication module 27, in particular for receiving control orders, the control orders being emitted by an order transmitter, such as the local control unit 12a, 12b or the central control unit 13, these orders being intended to control the motorized drive device.

Preferably, the first communication module 27 of the electronic control unit 15 is of the wireless type. In particular, the first communication module 27 is configured to receive radio control orders.

The electronic control unit 15, the local control unit 12a, 12b and/or the central control unit 13 may be in communication with a weather station, not shown, remote from outside the building, including, in particular, one or more sensors that may be configured to determine, for example, a temperature, a brightness or even a wind speed.

The electronic control unit 15, the local control unit 12a, 12b and/or the central control unit 13 may also be in communication with a server 28, so as to control the electromechanical actuator 11 according to data made available remotely via a communication network, in particular an internet network which can be connected to the server 28.

The electronic control unit 15 can be controlled from the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13. The local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 is provided with a control keyboard. The control keyboard of the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 comprises one or more selection elements 14 and, optionally, one or more display elements 34.

By way of non-limiting examples, the selection elements may comprise push buttons and/or touch keys. The display elements may comprise light-emitting diodes and/or an LCD (acronym for the English term “Liquid Crystal Display”) or TFT (acronym for the English term “Thin Film Transistor”) display. The selection and display elements may also be produced using a touch screen. Advantageously, the display element(s) may not comprise a screen and may be limited to one or more light sources such as one or more light-emitting diodes. The control unit is then called a basic control unit.

The local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 comprises at least one second communication module 36.

Thus, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 is configured to transmit, in other words emit, control orders, in particular by wireless means, for example radioelectric.

Furthermore, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 can also be configured to receive, in other words receive, control orders, in particular via the same means.

The second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 is configured to communicate, in other words communicates, with the first communication module 27 of the electronic control unit 15.

Thus, the second communication module 36 of the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 exchanges control orders with the first communication module 27 of the electronic control unit 15, either in a one-way or two-way manner.

Advantageously, the local control unit 12a is a fixed or nomadic control point and/or the local control unit 12b is a fixed or nomadic control point. A fixed control point may be a control box intended to be fixed on a facade of a wall of the building or on a face of a fixed frame of a window or a door. A nomadic control point may be a remote control, in particular a basic control unit, a smartphone or a tablet.

Advantageously, the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13 also comprises a controller 35.

The motorized drive device, in particular the electronic control unit 15, is preferably configured to execute movement control orders, in particular closing and opening, of the screen 2 of the occultation device 3. These control orders can be issued, in particular, by the local control unit 12a, 12b or by the central control unit 13.

The motorized drive device can be controlled by the user, for example by receiving a control command corresponding to pressing the or one of the selection elements 14 of the local control unit 12a, 12b or central control unit 13.

The motorized drive device can also be controlled automatically, for example by receiving a control command corresponding to at least one signal from at least one sensor and/or a signal from a clock of the electronic control unit 15, in particular the microcontroller 31. The sensor and/or the clock can be integrated into the local control unit 12a, 12b or into the central control unit 13.

Preferably, all communications between the elements of the installation are implemented via a wireless communication protocol, in particular the Zigbee protocol. Preferably, communications between the remote controls 12a, 12b and the home automation devices 3a, 3b are implemented via a wireless communication protocol, in particular the Zigbee protocol.

The motorized drive device may include a self-contained electrical power supply device 26.

The autonomous electrical energy supply device 26 comprises at least one photovoltaic panel 25 and at least one electrical energy storage device 24.

The autonomous electrical energy supply device 26 is configured to supply electrical energy to the electromechanical actuator 11a, 11b.

Thus, the autonomous electrical energy supply device 26 makes it possible to supply electrical energy to the electromechanical actuator 11a, 11b, without itself being electrically connected to a mains electrical supply network.

Here, the photovoltaic panel 25 is electrically connected to the electrical energy storage device 24.

The electromechanical actuator 11a, 11b is electrically connected to the autonomous electrical energy supply device 26 and, more particularly, to the electrical energy storage device 24. Preferably, the electromechanical actuator 11a, 11b is electrically connected to the autonomous electrical energy supply device 26 and, more particularly, to the electrical energy storage device 24 by means of at least one electrical power supply cable 18, so as to allow the electromechanical actuator 11 to be supplied with electrical energy from the autonomous electrical energy supply device 26.

The electronic control unit 15 is electrically connected to the autonomous electrical energy supply device 26 and, more particularly, to the battery electrical energy storage device 24.

Advantageously, the electrical energy storage device 24 comprises at least one battery 32.

Advantageously, the battery 32 comprises at least one electrical energy storage element, not shown.

Here, the battery 32 comprises a plurality of electrical energy storage elements. Preferably, the electrical energy storage elements are electrically connected in series.

The number of electrical energy storage elements in the battery is not limited.

Advantageously, the electrical energy storage device 24 is of the rechargeable type and is configured to supply electrical energy to the electromechanical actuator 11. Furthermore, the electrical energy storage device 24 is configured to be supplied with electrical energy by the photovoltaic panel 25.

Thus, the recharging of the electrical energy storage device 24 is implemented by solar energy, by means of the photovoltaic panel 25.

In this way, the electrical energy storage device 24 can be recharged without having to dismantle a part of the trunk 9a, 9b of the concealment device 3.

The photovoltaic panel 25 comprises at least one photovoltaic cell and, more particularly, a plurality of photovoltaic cells.

The photovoltaic panel 25 comprises charging elements configured to charge the battery 32 of the electrical energy storage device 24 from the solar energy recovered by the photovoltaic panel 25.

Thus, the charging elements configured to charge the battery 32 of the electrical energy storage device 24 from solar energy make it possible to convert the solar energy recovered by the photovoltaic panel 25 into electrical energy.

Alternatively or additionally, the motorized drive device 5a, 5b, in particular the electromechanical actuator 11a, 11b, is supplied with electrical energy by means of the battery 32 or from a mains power supply network, in particular by the commercial AC network, in particular depending on a state of charge of the battery 32.

A casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is, preferably, of cylindrical shape.

In one embodiment, the housing 17 is made of a metallic material.

The material of the electromechanical actuator housing is not limiting and may be different. In particular, it may be a plastic material.

Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 also comprises a reducer 19, a brake 29 and an output shaft 20.

Advantageously, the reducer 19 comprises at least one reduction stage. The reduction stage may be an epicyclic type gear train.

The type and number of reduction stages of the reducer are not limiting. The number of reduction stages may be greater than or equal to two.

By way of non-limiting example, the brake 29 may be a spring brake, a cam brake or an electromagnetic brake.

The electromechanical actuator 11 may also include an end-of-travel and/or obstacle detection device, which may be mechanical or electronic.

Advantageously, the electric motor 16, the brake 29 and the reducer 19 are mounted inside the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

The winding tube 4 is rotated about the axis of rotation X and the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 while being supported by means of two pivot connections. The first pivot connection is made at a first end of the winding tube 4 by means of a crown 30 inserted around a first end 17a of the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11. The crown 30 thus makes it possible to make a bearing. The second pivot connection, not shown in FIG. , is carried out at a second end of the winding tube 4, not visible in this figure.

Advantageously, the electromechanical actuator 11 comprises a torque support 21. The torque support 21 projects at the first end 17a of the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular the end 17a of the casing 17 receiving the crown 30. The torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11 thus makes it possible to fix the electromechanical actuator 11 to a frame 23, in particular to a cheek of the trunk 9a, 9b.

Furthermore, the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11 can make it possible to close the first end 17a of the casing 17.

Furthermore, the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11 can be used to support the electronic control unit 15. The electronic control unit 15 can be supplied with electrical energy by means of the electrical power supply cable 18.

Here, and as illustrated in the , the electronic control unit 15 is thus arranged, in other words integrated, inside the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

In a variant, not shown, the electronic control unit 15 is arranged outside the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, mounted on the frame 23 or in the torque support 21. In a variant not shown, the electronic control unit 15 is distributed between the inside and the outside of the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11 and, in particular, partially housed in the torque support 21.

The electronic control unit 15 supports in particular human-machine interface elements, such as light-emitting diodes and/or push buttons. In particular, these human-machine interface elements can be accessible at the torque support 21 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

Advantageously, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is arranged inside the winding tube 4 and at least partly outside the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11.

Advantageously, one end of the output shaft 20 projects relative to the casing 17 of the electromechanical actuator 11, in particular relative to a second end 17b of the casing 17 opposite the first end 17a.

Advantageously, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 is configured to drive in rotation a connecting element 22 connected to the winding tube 4. The connecting element 22 is produced in the form of a wheel.

When the electromechanical actuator 11 is operated, the electric motor 16 and the reducer 19 rotate the output shaft 20. In addition, the output shaft 20 of the electromechanical actuator 11 rotates the winding tube 4 via the connecting element 22.

Thus, the winding tube 4 rotates the screen 2 of the occultation device 3, so as to open or close the opening 1.

The installation 100, in particular the remote controls 12a, 12b and/or the home automation devices 3a, 3b comprise all the hardware and/or software means for implementing the configuration method which is the subject of the invention. These means may comprise software modules.

The home automation installation is described above with two local remote controls 12a and 12b each controlling a home automation device. However, the home automation installation 100 may comprise more than two local remote controls and/or each local remote control may control more than one home automation device 3a, 3b. Furthermore, the same home automation device may be controlled by several local remote controls.

We now describe, with reference to the , a first mode of execution of a method of configuring the installation 100 described previously.

In an initial state of the home automation installation:
- the remote control 12a and the home automation device 3a belong to a first network and the remote control 12a is paired with the home automation device 3a, and
- the remote control 12b and the home automation device 3b belong to a second network and the remote control 12b is paired with the home automation device 3b,
the first and second networks being distinct, that is, defined by a distinct network data or key.

In other words, the remote control 12a and the home automation device 3a can communicate with each other in the first network and the remote control 12b and the home automation device 3b can communicate with each other in the second network.

This situation in which two networks coexist within the same installation may be linked to an installation in several stages separated in time, for example during the construction and then during the renovation of the building. For example, the second remote control 12b and the second home automation device 3b may have been installed during the renovation of a room in the building not originally equipped when the first home automation device 3a and its remote control 12a were installed.

The configuration method aims to simplify the procedure when removing the separation between the two networks, which removal could allow the integration of the remote control 12b into the first network or the integration of the second remote control 12a into the second network, or the integration of the two remote controls 12a, 12b into a third common network. Thus, the remote control 12b would have the possibility of also controlling the home automation device 3a and/or the remote control 12a would have the possibility of also controlling the home automation device 3b. The method can also be applied to any installation in which a network share can be redefined without worrying about existing network shares.

In a first step S110, the user or installer acts on the remote control 12b to request its at least partial reset. To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example 12 seconds on a “Prog” programming button. The reset concerns the membership of the remote control 12b in the second network.

As a result of the first step S110, in other words, automatically when the reset request is taken into account by the second remote control 12b, in a step S115, the remote control 12b sends, to all the home automation devices with which it is paired (in particular to the home automation device 3b), an instruction to switch to a home automation device configuration mode. This mode may be the Touchlink mode of the Zigbee protocol. Upon receipt of this instruction to switch to the home automation device configuration mode, the home automation devices switch from a usage mode to a configuration mode for a determined maximum duration, for example between 10 minutes and 20 minutes, typically 15 minutes. In this home automation device configuration mode, the transmission power and/or the reception power of the signals at the home automation devices is attenuated, to allow reprogramming or pairing actions with a remote control based in particular on a proximity between two devices. The dimming only affects setup and pairing commands. Home automation devices can remain functional during this time, for example to move the screen they are associated with.

Furthermore, as a result of the first step S110, in a step S120, a partial or complete zeroing procedure of the remote control 12b is performed, i.e. at least all network membership data is erased, for example the network key is erased or forgotten. The pairing data may or may not also be erased.

Similarly, with regard to the home automation devices 3b, the pairing data of the home automation devices with the remote control may also be deactivated, possibly temporarily, in step S120 as a result of the switch to the home automation device configuration mode that occurs in step S115. However, this deactivation is not necessarily necessary. The temporary nature of the deactivation makes it possible to find this pairing data upon returning to usage mode, when the remote control 12b and the home automation device(s) with which it is paired are once again part of a new common network.

The home automation devices 3b may be configured to subsequently automatically erase their old network membership and pairing data when, in a home automation device configuration mode, they record new network membership and pairing data for one or more new remote controls. Alternatively, the pairing data of the home automation devices with the remote control may also be erased in step S120.

Furthermore, if during the duration determined during step S115, a home automation device has not joined a new network, it retains its link with its original network and its old membership and pairing data when it returns to usage mode.

Following step S120, in a step S125, the remote control 12b switches to a remote control configuration mode (Programming mode). To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example less than 3 seconds, on the “Prog” programming button. The remote control 12b remains in this mode for a determined maximum duration, for example between 2 minutes and 4 minutes, typically 3 minutes. Alternatively, the remote control 12b is automatically switched to a remote control configuration mode at the end of the reset step S120. This mode makes it possible to wait for a new network sharing with another remote control, i.e. a data sharing with the remote control 12a making it possible to define a new network or, more precisely, allowing the remote control 12b to now be part of the network of which the remote control 12a is part, this network then constituting a common network. In this remote control configuration mode, the 12b remote control is passive, waiting for information.

The above steps S110 to S125 are repeated for all remote controls in the installation that need to change network to allow them to control a new home automation device that they were not controlling until now, as well as for all home automation devices that also need to change network.

Then, in a step S130, the user or installer acts on the remote control 12a to perform a network sharing, i.e. a sharing of data defining the network to which the remote control 12a belongs or of a network newly created by the remote control 12a. This network will constitute a network common to the first and second remote controls. To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example less than 3 seconds on the “Prog” programming button.

In a step S135, the remote control 12a transmits the data defining the network on which the remote control 12a operates or will operate. This data is received and recorded by the remote control 12b in a step S140. After this recording, the remote control 12b is part of the network on which the remote control 12a is located. Thus, the key of the network on which the remote control 12a operates or will operate is then transmitted to another remote control 12b which must be part of the new common network. This sharing, carried out during steps S135 and S140, is preferably carried out with a transmission and/or reception of signals at attenuated power. This ensures that the sharing of network information is only done when the remote controls exchanging data are in proximity to each other. The sharing of information relating to the new common network involves forgetting the network to which the remote control 12b previously belonged. The attenuation only concerns the configuration and pairing commands.

Steps S110 and S140 are iterated on all remote controls that must join the network on which the remote control 12a operates or will operate. Thus, the key of the network on which the remote control 12a operates or will operate is then transmitted to these other remote controls 12b that must be part of the new common network.

Then, in a step S145, the remote control 12b switches to a remote control configuration mode (Programming mode). The remote control 12b remains in this mode for a determined duration, for example 10 seconds or a few tens of seconds. To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example less than 3 seconds, on the programming button “Prog”. Alternatively, the remote control 12b is automatically switched to a remote control configuration mode at the end of the network sharing step S140. In this remote control configuration mode, the remote control 12b is in active mode. It searches for home automation devices that are also in configuration mode, to transmit data to them.

Then, in a step S150, the remote control 12b exchanges pairing data with the home automation device 3b that it must control. This data is for example received and recorded by the home automation device 3b which is still maintained in the mode obtained at the end of step S115. After this recording, the home automation device 3b and the remote control 12b are paired. This sharing of pairing data, initiated in step S150, is preferably carried out with a transmission and/or reception of signals at attenuated power. This ensures that the sharing of the pairing data is only done when the remote control 12b and the home automation device 3b are close to each other. The attenuation only concerns the configuration and pairing commands. This pairing data may correspond to one or more individual identifiers of the remote control 12b or the home automation device 3b that are exchanged, or a group identifier, possibly independent of the individual identifiers of the remote control 12b or the home automation device 3b that is shared. Adding the home automation device 3b to the new common network involves forgetting the network to which the home automation device 3b previously belonged.

Once the pairing is performed, in a step S155, the remote control 12b emits an acknowledgement of receipt such as for example an acknowledgement display on an interface. In a step S160, the home automation device 3b also emits an acknowledgement of receipt such as for example a brief back-and-forth movement of the screen 2.

Steps S145 to S160 are iterated on all home automation devices that are to be controlled by one of the remote controls that has newly joined the network on which the remote control 12a is now operating. Thus, after these steps S145 to S160, the remote control 12b can again control the home automation device 3b. In addition, the remote control 12b can also, subject to appropriate pairing, also control the home automation device 3a.

Thus, once the network share is established, the old functional links (deleted in step S120) between the remote controls and the home automation devices are recreated.

If a pairing can no longer be performed according to the steps S145 to S160 described above, in particular because a home automation device to be paired has exited its configuration mode triggered in step S115, a pairing according to another procedure preferably remains possible. However, this procedure requires a physical action by the user or installer on the home automation device, in particular on a button of the home automation device.

At the end of the procedure, the remote controls 12a, 12b leave the remote control configuration mode and return to usage mode, in which they are adapted to transmit control commands to the home automation devices in their network. Similarly, at the end of the procedure, the home automation devices 3a, 3b leave the home automation device configuration mode and return to usage mode, in which they are adapted to receive, in their network, control commands and to execute them.

It is possible to switch the remote controls 12a, 12b in advance to usage mode, by means of a user action on a button of the remote control. Advantageously, this operation simultaneously triggers the sending of a message to the home automation devices of the network so that they too can leave the home automation device configuration mode and return to usage mode, before the expiration of the maximum duration of the configuration mode. Advantageously, this message also includes a configuration indication, which is recorded by the devices concerned so that they are no longer likely to switch to home automation device configuration mode.

Thus, in a first mode of execution of the configuration method, the remote controls of a second network are reset and their registration on a first network is caused, by means of a remote control of this first network.

In a first variant of this first mode of execution of the configuration method, the remote control 2a may initially be part of no network and therefore may initially not be configured to control the home automation device 3a.

In a second variant of this first mode of execution of the configuration method, a remote control 2a may initially be part of a network and may initially be configured to control the home automation device 3a. However, it may be a third remote control which defines a new network which will be common to at least the third remote control and to the remote control 2b.

We now describe, with reference to the , a second mode of execution of a method of configuring the installation 100 described previously.

In an initial state of the home automation installation:
- the remote control 12a and the home automation device 3a belong to a first network and the remote control 12a is paired with the home automation device 3a, and
- the remote control 12b and the home automation device 3b belong to a second network and the remote control 12b is paired with the home automation device 3b,
the first and second networks being distinct, i.e. defined by a distinct network data or key. In other words, the remote control 12a and the home automation device 3a can communicate with each other in the first network and the remote control 12b and the home automation device 3b can communicate with each other in the second network.

This situation in which two networks coexist within the same installation may be linked to an installation in several stages separated in time, for example during the construction and then during the renovation of the building. For example, the second remote control 12b and the second home automation device 3b may have been installed during the renovation of a room in the building not originally equipped when the first home automation device 3a and its remote control 12a were installed.

The configuration method is intended to simplify the procedure when removing the separation between the two networks, which removal could allow the integration of the remote control 12b into the first network or the integration of the second remote control 12a into the second network, or the integration of the two remote controls 12a, 12b into a third common network. Thus, the remote control 12b would have the possibility of also controlling the home automation device 3a and/or the remote control 12a would have the possibility of also controlling the home automation device 3b.

In a first step S200, the user or installer acts on the remote control 12a to reset it at least partially. To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a specific duration, for example 12 seconds on a “Prog” programming button.

As a result of the first step S200, in other words, automatically when the reset request is taken into account by the second remote control 12a, in a step S210, the remote control 12a sends, to all the home automation devices to which it is paired (in particular to the home automation device 3a), an instruction to switch to a home automation device configuration mode. This mode may be the Touchlink mode of the Zigbee protocol. Upon receipt of this instruction to switch to the home automation device configuration mode, the home automation devices switch from a usage mode to a configuration mode for a determined maximum duration, for example between 10 minutes and 20 minutes, typically 15 minutes. In this home automation device configuration mode, the transmission power and/or the reception power of the signals at the home automation devices is attenuated, to allow reprogramming or pairing actions with a remote control based in particular on a proximity between two devices. Attenuation only affects setup and pairing commands.

Furthermore, as a result of the first step S200, in a step S220, a partial or complete zeroing procedure of the remote control 12a is performed, i.e. at least all network membership data is erased, for example the network key is erased or forgotten. The pairing data may or may not also be erased.

Similarly, with regard to the home automation devices 3a, the pairing data of the home automation devices with the remote control may also be deactivated, possibly temporarily in step S220 as a result of the switch to the home automation device configuration mode that occurs in step S210. However, this deactivation is not necessarily necessary. The temporary nature of the deactivation makes it possible to find this pairing data upon returning to usage mode, when the remote control 12a and the home automation device(s) with which it is paired are once again part of a new common network.

The home automation devices 3a may be configured to subsequently automatically erase their old network membership and pairing data when, in a home automation device configuration mode, they record new network membership and pairing data for one or more new remote controls. Alternatively, the pairing data of the home automation devices with the remote control may also be erased in step S220

Furthermore, if during the duration determined during step S210, a home automation device has not joined a new network, it retains its link with its original network and its old membership and pairing data when it returns to usage mode.

Following step S220, in a step S230, the remote control 12a switches to a remote control configuration mode (Programming mode). To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example less than 3 seconds, on the “Prog” programming button. The remote control 12a remains in this mode for a determined maximum duration, for example between 2 minutes and 4 minutes, typically 3 minutes. Alternatively, the remote control 12a is automatically switched to a remote control configuration mode at the end of the reset step S220. This mode makes it possible to wait for a new network sharing with another remote control, i.e. a data sharing with the remote control 12b making it possible to define a new network, i.e. a network common to all the remote controls of the installation. In this remote control configuration mode, the remote control 12b is passive, waiting for information.

The above steps S200 to S230 are repeated for all remote controls in the installation as well as for all home automation devices that also need to change networks. In particular, the also illustrates these steps S200 to S230 applied to the remote control 12b and to the home automation device 3b.

Then, in a step S240, at the level of a remote control, the creation of a new common network is initiated. In this step S240, the user or installer acts for example on the remote control 12a to carry out a network sharing, that is to say a sharing of data defining the network newly created by the remote control 12a. To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example less than 3 seconds on the “Prog” programming button.

Then, in a step S250, the remote control 12a transmits the data defining the new common network on which the remote control 12a will operate. This data is received and recorded by the remote control 12b in a step S255. After this recording, the remote control 12b is part of the new network with the remote control 12a. The sharing of information relating to the new common network involves forgetting the network to which the remote control 12b previously belonged. Thus, the key of the new network on which the remote control 12a will operate is then transmitted to another remote control 12b which will then also be part of the new common network. This sharing, carried out during steps S250 and S255, is preferably carried out with a transmission and/or reception of signals at attenuated power. This ensures that the sharing of network information is only done while the remote controls exchanging network data are close to each other. The attenuation only concerns the configuration and pairing commands. Preferably, this sharing is iterated on all remote controls in the installation.

Then, in a step S260, the remote control 12a switches to a remote control configuration mode (Programming mode). The remote control 12a remains in this mode for a determined duration, for example 10 seconds or a few tens of seconds. To do this, the user or installer can press a button for a determined duration, for example less than 3 seconds, on the programming button “Prog”. Alternatively, the remote control 12a is automatically switched to a remote control configuration mode at the end of the network sharing step S250. In this remote control configuration mode, the remote control 12b is in active mode. It searches for home automation devices that are also in configuration mode, to transmit data to them.

Then, in a step S270, the remote control 12a exchanges pairing data with the home automation device 3a that it must control. This data is for example received and recorded by the home automation device 3a which is still maintained in the mode obtained at the end of step S210. After this recording, the home automation device 3a and the remote control 12a are paired. This sharing of pairing data, initiated in step S270, is preferably carried out with a transmission and/or reception of signals at attenuated power. This ensures that the sharing of the pairing data is only done when the remote control 12a and the home automation device 3a are close to each other. The attenuation only concerns the configuration and pairing commands. This pairing data may correspond to one or more individual identifiers of the remote control 12a or the home automation device 3a that are exchanged, or a group identifier, possibly independent of the individual identifiers of the remote control 12a or the home automation device 3a that is shared. Adding the home automation device 3a to the new common network involves forgetting the network to which the home automation device 3a previously belonged.

Once the pairing is performed, in a step S280, the remote control 12a emits an acknowledgement of receipt such as for example an acknowledgement display on an interface. In a step S290, the home automation device 3a also emits an acknowledgement of receipt such as for example a brief back-and-forth movement of the screen 2.

Steps S260 to S290 are iterated on all home automation devices that are to be controlled by one of the remote controls of the new network. Thus, after these steps S260 to S290, the remote control 12a can again control the home automation device 3a. In addition, the remote control 12a can also, subject to appropriate pairing, also control the home automation device 3b.

Thus, once the network share is established, the old functional links (deleted in steps S220) between the remote controls and the home automation devices are recreated.

If a pairing can no longer be performed according to the steps S260 to S290 described above, in particular because a home automation device to be paired has exited its configuration mode triggered in step S210, a pairing according to another procedure preferably remains possible. However, this procedure requires a physical action by the user or installer on the home automation device, in particular on a button of the home automation device.

At the end of the procedure, the remote controls 12a, 12b leave the remote control configuration mode and return to usage mode, in which they are adapted to transmit control commands to the home automation devices in their network. Similarly, at the end of the procedure, the home automation devices 3a, 3b leave the home automation device configuration mode and return to usage mode, in which they are adapted to receive, in their network, control commands and to execute them.

It is possible to switch the remote controls 12a, 12b in advance to usage mode, by means of a user action on a button of the remote control. Advantageously, this operation simultaneously triggers the sending of a message to the home automation devices of the network so that they too can leave the home automation device configuration mode and return to usage mode, before the expiration of the maximum duration of the configuration mode. Advantageously, this message also includes a configuration indication, which is recorded by the devices concerned so that they are no longer likely to switch to home automation device configuration mode.

Thus, in the second mode of execution of the configuration process, all remote controls are reset and a new network is redefined, the data of which is transmitted to all the remote controls concerned in the installation.

This second mode of execution makes it possible to avoid having to know or identify the membership of remote controls to networks.

Regardless of the mode of execution, preferably, to transmit information from one device to another, the proximity criterion is preferably a distance between devices less than 2 meters or less than 1.5 meters.

Regardless of the execution mode, preferably, network or network membership is defined by a network identifier.

Regardless of the execution mode, preferably, the pairings are defined by a network identifier and a group identifier, a group can consist of a single actuator.

Regardless of the execution mode, preferably, network shares can consist of sending and receiving network keys or network identifiers. This amounts to exchanging a common key. This sharing operation is notably called "joining" in the Zigbee protocol.

Regardless of the execution mode, preferably, the message requesting the switch to programming mode for home automation devices (Touchlink) is sent at normal power (not reduced) so that it can be retrieved by all the home automation devices concerned (either through mesh network repetitions or simply because the home automation devices to be reached are within radio range in the case of a network without a hub.

A network sharing and peering operation includes:
- a network data sharing step or an invitation to join the network (“joining”), and
- a pairing step (“binding”).

The solutions described above have the advantage of avoiding the installer having to press buttons on home automation devices that need to join a new common network.

Preferably, at the time of breaking the links (deleting the links at a remote control), there is no other message exchanged than the one that asks the home automation devices to switch to Touchlink mode. This message is preferably sent at full power so that all the home automation devices concerned can receive it. The remote control deletes its links independently, the home automation device joins a new network when it has the opportunity.

It should be noted that in connected mode (with home automation box or coordinator), there are other ways to ask equipment (remote controls and home automation devices) to leave their network. A "leave network" function can be launched with the equipment concerned, then switching to "network steering" (equivalent to Touchlink in connected mode) allows links to be recreated.

It is noted that in steps S125 and S145, the programming modes discussed are not the same. In the programming mode discussed in step S125, the remote control is waiting for configuration information, and in the programming mode discussed in step S145, the remote control is searching for home automation devices to which it can transmit configuration information.

It is noted that, in steps S230 and S260, the programming modes discussed are not the same. In the programming mode discussed in step S230, the remote control is waiting for configuration information and, in the programming mode discussed in step S260, the remote control is searching for home automation devices to which it can transmit configuration information.

Claims (15)

Method for configuring a home automation installation (100) comprising:
- at least one first home automation device (3a),
- at least one second home automation device (3b),
- at least one first remote control (12a), in particular at least one first remote control (12a) configured to control the first home automation device (3a) so that the first remote control and the first home automation device are part of a first network, and
- at least one second remote control (12b) configured to control the second home automation device (3b), the second remote control and the second home automation device being part of a second network,
the method comprising the following steps:
- a step of requesting resetting the membership of the second remote control (12b) to the second network,
- a step of sending, by the second remote control (12b), a command to switch the at least one second home automation device (3b) to a home automation device configuration mode, the sending step being triggered automatically by the second remote control (12b) taking into account the reset request,
- a step of sharing information between (i) the first remote control (12a) or a third remote control and (ii) the second remote control (12b) so that the first or third remote control and the second remote control (12a, 12b) are part of a common network,
- a step of adding at least one second home automation device (3b) to the common network,
the step of adding to the common network taking place while the at least one second home automation device is maintained in the home automation device configuration mode. Configuration method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, in the information sharing step, the information exchanged is such that the first and second remote controls (12a, 12b) are part of the first network at the end of this step. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one first remote control (12a) is configured so as to control the first home automation device (3a) so that the first remote control and the first home automation device are part of a first network and in that the step of sharing information between the first remote control (12a) or a third remote control and the second remote control (12b) so that the first or the third remote control and the second remote control (12a, 12b) are part of a common network includes a step of creating a third network distinct from the first network and the second network, the third network constituting the common network. Configuration method according to claim 3, characterized in that the method comprises the following steps:
- a step of requesting resetting the membership of the first remote control (12a) to the first network,
- a step of sending, by the first remote control (12a), a command to switch the at least one first home automation device (3a) to a home automation device configuration mode, the sending step being triggered automatically by the first remote control (12a) taking into account the reset request,
- a step of adding to the common network the at least one first home automation device (3a), the step of adding to the common network taking place while the at least one first home automation device is maintained in the home automation device configuration mode. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the home automation device configuration mode comprises a mode of waiting for a request to add to a new network, in particular a “Touchlink” mode of a “Zigbee” protocol, the addition to a new network involving forgetting the network to which the home automation device belongs. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the home automation device configuration mode is maintained for a determined maximum duration, in particular a duration of between 10 minutes and 20 minutes, typically 15 minutes. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the home automation device configuration mode is a mode authorizing communication between a first or second home automation device and a remote control provided that the remote control is close to the home automation device, typically less than 2 meters or less than 1.5 meters. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the request to reset the first remote control and/or the second remote control causes it to switch to a remote control configuration mode. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the remote control configuration mode comprises a mode of waiting for sharing information, in particular a “Touchlink” mode of a “Zigbee” protocol, the sharing of information relating to a new network involving forgetting the network to which the remote control belongs. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the remote control configuration mode is maintained for a determined maximum duration, in particular a duration of between 2 minutes and 4 minutes, typically 3 minutes. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the remote control configuration mode is a mode authorizing sharing of information with another remote control provided that the remote controls are close to each other, typically less than 2 meters or less than 1.5 meters. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that membership of a network is defined by a network identifier. Configuration method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that communication between a remote control and a home automation device belonging to the same network is defined by a group identifier. Remote control comprising hardware and/or software elements implementing the method according to one of claims 1 to 13, in particular hardware and/or software elements designed to implement the method according to one of claims 1 to 13. Home automation device comprising hardware and/or software elements implementing the method according to one of claims 1 to 13, in particular hardware and/or software elements designed to implement the method according to one of claims 1 to 13.