Abstract:
A barrier operator is configured to learn and receive disparate wireless transmission signals to control movement of a barrier. The operator includes a receiver core circuit adapted to receive wireless transmission signals containing known and unknown formatted data words. A microcontroller is adapted to determine a fixed code portion of the unknown formatted data words. The microcontroller is also associated with a memory unit and connected to the receiver core circuit for storing in the memory unit the known formatted data words and the unknown formatted data words if the fixed code portion can be determined when the microcontroller is in a learn mode. The receiver core circuit may also scan only frequencies associated with learn codes, pre-selected frequencies, and incremental frequencies within a predetermined range of frequencies.
Abstract:
A discrete add-on control system for a barrier operating system is provided. The control system includes a mobile transmitter, a barrier state transmitter a controller and an indicator. The mobile transmitter automatically and periodically generates a mobile signal. The barrier state transmitter generates a barrier state signal. The controller is connected to the barrier operating system, receives the mobile signal and the barrier state signal, and commands the barrier operating system to move a barrier based upon the mobile signal and the barrier state signal. The indicator indicates a condition of the barrier.
Abstract:
The present invention advantageously provides methods for manually and/or remotely controlling a motorized roller shade that includes a shade attached to a shade tube, a DC gear motor disposed within the shade tube and a microcontroller. One method includes detecting a manual movement of the shade using a sensor, determining a displacement associated with the manual movement, and, if the displacement is less than a maximum displacement, moving the shade to a different position by energizing the DC gear motor to rotate the shade tube. Another method includes receiving a command from a remote control, and moving the shade to a position associated with the command by energizing the DC gear motor to rotate the shade tube.
Abstract:
A barrier operating system having a diagnostic performance feature includes a motorized barrier movable between limit positions and a counterbalance system coupled to the barrier. A disconnect mechanism may be interposed between the motor and the counterbalance system so that the barrier can be moved manually without assistance from the motor. A position detection device is coupled to either the barrier or the counterbalance system and generates a barrier position signal. One of the motor and the position detection device generates operational parameter values for the barrier moving in either direction. A controller receives the operational parameter values and the barrier position signal, and as the barrier is manually moved, the controller compares operational parameter values for each direction of movement at a given position and generates a diagnostic signal based upon the comparison.
Abstract:
A network operator radio module (NORM) configured to be removably attached to a barrier operator comprises a transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, a transceiver antenna, and a microcontroller. The module communicates with a communication network that comprises various nodes configured by a network controller module and a network communication module. Each node may be associated with a network appliance, and may be remotely controlled by sending a suitable function code to the module via local command signals. Furthermore, various local remote transmitters and keyless entry transmitters are configured to transmit function codes to control the module and the associated various network appliances.
Abstract:
An uninterruptible power source (UPS) for supplying power to a barrier operator when mains power has failed is disclosed. The UPS includes a UPS controller for detecting and responding to a mains power failure and capable of generating a plurality of control signals. A backup power source and an up-converter is connected to the UPS controller, wherein the up-converter increases the voltage of the backup power source when needed. A switch is responsive to one of the plurality of control signals of the UPS controller and toggles the operator barrier between the up-converter and the mains power source, and awakens the operator via a standby receiver power line. Another embodiment awakens the operator anytime a UPS receiver receives a preamble of a wireless transmission signal. Auxiliary lighting may also be associated with the UPS and/or photo-electric safety devices.
Abstract:
A limited-use appliance is disclosed which has at least one input device for generating an input signal and a controller associated with the input device and receiving the input signal. The controller initiates at least one limited-use function of the appliance upon receipt of the input signal. A test device is maintained by the controller, and has a predetermined criteria which determines whether the input signal should be sent on to the controller or not. A method for pre-installing an appliance is also disclosed and includes the steps of pre-installing an appliance with a controller, wherein the controller operates the appliance in a limited manner. An input device from a group of input devices is associated with the controller, wherein the input device generates an input signal to operate the appliance. And the pre-determined criteria maintained by the controller is tested such that the input signal from the controller is blocked when the pre-determined criteria is met. The appliance is most likely a garage door operator, but it could be any large appliance that is installed prior to the purchase of a home or facility.
Abstract:
A network bridge device that links a wireless network and a wired network to one another. The bridge includes a wireless signal transceiver adapted to receive and send signals in a wireless format, and a wired signal transceiver adapted to receive and send signals in a wired format. A bridge controller is connected to both transceivers and converts the wireless signals from the first format to the second format and the wired signals from the second format to the first format. The bridge may also be configured to communicate with a wireless network control device and/or a wired network control device.
Abstract:
A wireless operating system (10) utilizing a multi-functional wall station (12) for a motorized door/gate operator includes an operator (50) for controlling the movement of a door/gate (54) between various positions. The system has an operator with a receiver (56) and a wall station transmitter (12) for transmitting a signal (42) to the receiver. The signal initiates separate operator functions in addition to opening and closing of the door/gate. A remote transmitter (70) may send a remote signal (74) received by the receiver, wherein the receiver is capable of distinguishing between the wall station signal (42) and the remote signal (74). The wall station includes a transmitter programming button (24), wherein actuation of the transmitter programming button places the wall station transmitter in a learn mode, and wherein subsequent actuation of the remote transmitter positively identifies the remote transmitter for use with the wall station. A light (66) powered by the operator and a light actuation button (18) provided by the wall station transmitter is included in the system. Actuation of the light actuation button (18) functions to switch the light on or off. A pet height button (22), provided by the wall station transmitter, selectively positions the height of the gate/door (54) from its fully closed position to allow ingress and egress of a pet. A delay-close button (20) closes the door/gate after a predetermined period of time. Actuation of a door installation button (28) sequences the door/gate and said operator through various operational parameters to establish a door operating profile. A keyless entry transmitter (80) and a second wall station may also control the operator.