NL2034129B1

NL2034129B1 - Connected relay box, and controlling system and remotely controlled system including the same

Info

Publication number: NL2034129B1
Application number: NL2034129A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Mahaut Charles
Original assignee: Schreder Sa
Priority date: 2023-02-10
Filing date: 2023-02-10
Publication date: 2024-09-03

Abstract

A controlling unit for control of at least one electric device, comprising: an enclosure; at least one relay contact module provided within the enclosure, wherein a relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module is configured for being connected to an electric device of the at least one electric device; a receptacle mounted to an external surface of the enclosure, said receptacle comprising a socket configured for cooperating with a plug of a pluggable module such as to electrically connect the pluggable module to the receptacle; and a power supplying interface electrically connected with the relay contact module and the electric device. Each relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module is configured to communicate with the pluggable module.

Description

CONNECTED RELAY BOX, AND CONTROLLING SYSTEM AND REMOTELY

CONTROLLED SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME

FIELD OF INVENTION

The field of the invention relates to controlling units in order to control at least one connected electric device, preferably for an outdoor utilization, and controlling systems and remotely controlled systems including the same. Particular embodiments relate to controlling units with commanded relays.

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in technology towards more intelligent and connected devices, there is still a gap to be bridged in terms of remote control of electric devices. As such, retrofitting, or adding an intelligent control system to a preexisting electric device, are still major design points to tackle in order to improve compatibility in control systems between different levels of technology amongst electric devices, for example between “smart” control systems reacting to changes in the environment thanks to data sensing and more “basic” control systems relying on an internal timer.

Typically, there is very little possibility for two electric devices with different intelligence levels to be controlled in the same manner, or only in quite cumbersome ways. So, the generally employed solution is to completely replace the old electric devices by new ones. However, replacement can be expensive and does not ensure that the new electric devices will technically replace the old ones in use.

In particular, the design of intelligent controlled electric devices generally presents a high degree of complexity and specificity which renders it not readily adaptable to another different electric device. On the other hand, basic electric devices have generally poor control possibilities due to their low level of complexity. Thus, there is a need for alternative control solutions taking into account the typical problems encountered.

SUMMARY

The object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a controlling unit enabling for a practical and convenient way to enhance the control possibilities of electric devices, and a controlling system and a remotely controlled system including the same.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a controlling unit for control of at least one electric device. The controlling unit comprises an enclosure, at least one relay contact module, a receptacle, and a power supplying interface. The at least one relay contact module is provided within the enclosure. A relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module is configured for being connected to an electric device of the at least one electric device. The receptacle is mounted to an external surface of the enclosure, said receptacle comprising a socket configured for cooperating with a plug of a pluggable module such as to electrically connect the pluggable module to the receptacle. Each relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module is configured to communicate with the pluggable module. The power supplying interface is electrically connected with the relay contact module and the electric device.

Depending on embodiments, the power supplying interface is configured to be connected to any one or more of: an energy storage means such as a battery, the mains, a power converter, a solar panel, a wind turbine, etc.

The at least one electric device may comprise any one or more of: a laminaire, a decorative lighting, a screen, a billboard, an electric gate, an automatic watering system, a mobile bollard, a sensing means, a speaker, a projecting means, a spraying/sanitizing device, etc.

In embodiments of the controlling unit, the enclosure is configured for protecting against the external environment the at least one relay contact module and optionally various circuitry contained within. Since the receptacle is mounted to the external surface of the enclosure, the receptacle acts as an electrical interface between both sides of the external surface of the enclosure.

Additionally, a sealing means may be provided in contact with the receptacle and the external surface and may be configured for preventing water ingress at the level of the mounting, preferably for providing an IP66 sealing rating.

The socket may comprise a plurality of terminals, and the plug may comprise a corresponding plurality of contacts, such as a plurality of protruding contacts, configured to cooperate with the plurality of terminals to establish the electrical connection between the pluggable module and the receptacle. In an embodiment, the socket and plug cooperate mechanically following a twist-lock mechanism. The electrical connection established between the plurality of terminals and the plurality of contacts may be used for powering the pluggable module.

Optionally, the electrical connection may also be used for data transmission from and/or to the pluggable module.

The communication between the pluggable module and each relay contact module may be achieved wirelessly, e.g. via Bluetooth, and/or in a wired manner, e.g. via the electrical connection between the receptacle and the pluggable module. Thanks to this communication, a switching (on and off) of the relay contact module may be commanded, thereby allowing the control of the electric device connected thereto. Mainly, the switching of the relay contact module enables controlling the supply of power of the electric device through the power supplying interface.

Preferably, the relay contact module, the electric device, and the power supplying interface are serially connected.

The addition of a communication functionality to the electric device, via the coupling to the relay contact module, allows to enhance the intelligent controllability of the electric device in a simple and convenient manner. Depending on embodiments, the electric device may be provided within the enclosure of the controlling unit or outside the enclosure of the controlling unit.

The enclosure may be made of metal or plastic. It may also comprise a heat dissipating element. The heat dissipating element may be provided to the enclosure internally and/or externally. The enclosure may be configured for providing an IP65-rated sealing, preferably and 1P66-rated sealing, even more preferably an IP67-rated sealing.

According to a preferred embodiment, the controlling unit further comprises an interfacing bus electrically connected to the receptacle, said interfacing bus configured for transmitting control signals to the at least one relay contact module such as to control a switching of the at least one relay contact module.

In this way, interconnection between the receptacle and the at least one relay is more convenient and reliable. Costs are also saved due to the implementation of this dedicated interface.

According to an exemplary embodiment, each relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module is associated to a unique identifier and is configured to perform switching based on a control signal including the associated unique identifier.

In this manner, selective switching, and therefore selective control of an electric device of the at least one electric device, can be achieved practically.

More specifically, each relay contact module is associated with a unique identifier. Each unique identifier may be stored in a memory of the relay contact module. In an embodiment, every relay contact module receives the same control signal from the pluggable module. The control signal may comprise a header containing one or more unique identifiers. Upon reading the one or more unique identifiers in the control signal, the corresponding one or more relay contact modules may recognize that the control signal is directed to them and switch according to the received control signal.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one relay contact module comprises a plurality of relay contact modules, preferably four relay contact modules.

In this way, the controlling unit is equipped to independently control a corresponding plurality of electric devices each connected to a different relay contact module of the plurality of relay contact modules. Thus, using a single controlling unit, multiple electric devices may be provided with enhanced controllability.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the pluggable module and the at least one relay contact module are configured for communicating using a DALI communication protocol.

Additionally, in a typical embodiment, the interfacing bus may be configured for communicating using the DALI communication protocol.

In this manner, an appropriate communication protocol for network usage is employed which is readily implementable by a user of the controlling unit.

In alternative embodiments, other short-range and/or long-range communication protocols can be employed, such as LoRa, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wireless DALI, 6LoWPAN (Wi-SUN), etc.

According to a preferred embodiment. the electric device of the at least one electric device comprises a wireless control circuitry configured for wireless communication, preferably short- range wireless communication. An input of the wireless control circuitry is connected to the relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module. The wireless control circuitry is configured for wirelessly sending a command signal to a remote apparatus in communication therewith upon switching of the relay contact module.

The remote apparatus may comprise any one or more of: a luminaire, a decorative lighting, a screen, a billboard, an electric gate, an automatic watering system, a mobile bollard, a sensing means, a speaker, a projecting means, a spraying/sanitizing device, etc.

In this way, enhanced controllability can also be provided to remotely connectable apparatuses having wireless communication capabilities, e.g. Bluetooth.

In one embodiment, the remote apparatus comprises a lighting unit, and the wireless control circuitry of the electric device comprises a wireless controller, such as a short-range wireless controller; e.g. a Casambi controller, configured for transmitting a lighting signal to the lighting unit as the command signal. The lighting signal may comprise lighting duration data, lighting hue data, lighting time frequency data (continuous light, blinking light, etc.), dimming data, or light distribution data.

Additionally, the wireless control circuitry may comprise a plurality of inputs, each input associated with a different output channel of the wireless control circuitry, and the at least one relay contact module may comprise a corresponding plurality of relay contact modules, each of the plurality of relay contact modules being connected to a different input of the plurality of inputs. 5 Thus, more than one remote apparatus can be remotely controlled, and/or more than one kind of command signal can be sent to one remote apparatus via the wireless control circuitry.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the wireless control circuitry and the remote apparatus are configured to communicate using a DMX communication protocol.

In this manner, an appropriate communication protocol for network usage is employed, especially to control lighting, which is readily implementable by a user of the controlling unit with the wireless control circuity.

According to a preferred embodiment, the remote apparatus comprises a lighting unit and the command signal comprises a lighting signal for the lighting unit.

The lighting signal may comprise lighting duration data, lighting hue data, lighting tine frequency data (continuous light, blinking light, etc), dimming data, or light distribution data.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle is a NEM A-type receptacle.

In this way, an appropriate receptacle is employed which can be readily used for transmitting power to the pluggable module. The power can be directly transmitted through the power supplying interface, e.g. from a mains input connected thereto, to the receptacle. Additionally, the

NEMA-type receptacle may also be configured with terminals for transmitting data. Examples of receptacles, notably NEMA-type and Zhaga-type receptacles, configured for cooperating with a pluggable module are disclosed in patent applications WO2017/133793A1, WO2020/212515A1,

WO2021/001544A 1, WO2020/099393A1, WO2022/029099A 1, and PCT/EP2022/050240 in the name of the applicant, which are included herein by reference.

WO2017/133793A1 describes how to implement a receptacle comprising a near-field communication means configured to communicate with a near-field communication unit .

WO2020/212515A1 describes a receptacle wherein at least one receptacle contact of a plurality thereof is provided, at a rear end of the receptacle, with at least two wires, such that the number of wires provided at the rear side is higher than the number of front contact portions.

WO2021/001544A1 describes a receptacle including at least one peripheral body around its peripheral side and coupled in such a manner with a wall of a luminaire that the at least one peripheral body is non-rotatable relative to the wall; and wherein the at least one peripheral body and the peripheral side of the receptacle are coupled such that the receptacle is non-rotatable relative to the at least one peripheral body. WO2020/099393A 1 describes a receptacle with a wire connector having a front side and a rear side, said wire connector housing a plurality of connector contacts, each connector contact being provided, at a rear end, with a wire receiving contact for receiving and fixing a wire end and, at a front end, with a front contact portion; wherein the rear side of the receptacle and the front side of the wire connector are configured such that the wire connector is removably pluggable in the rear side of the receptacle. WO2022/029099A 1 describes a receptacle assembly including a receptacle and a gasket, said gasket being configured for being located between the receptacle and a housing of a luminaire; wherein said receptacle assembly is provided with an indicator means at a location which is visible when the receptacle is mounted on the housing. PCT/EP2022/050240 describes a receptacle assembly including a receptacle and a protection skirt; wherein said receptacle assembly is configured to be mounted on a lower side of a housing of a luminaire; wherein said protection skirt is configured to surround the receptacle.

In other embodiments, the receptacle is a Zhaga-type receptacle, and the controlling unit comprises a power converter connected between the power supplying interface and the receptacle for converting a supply power voltage to the receptacle to 24V supply power.

According to a preferred embodiment. the enclosure is further provided with a power plug member mounted to the external surface thereof. The power plug member is configured for supplying power to an external apparatus connected thereto.

The external apparatus may comprise any one or more of: a luminaire, a decorative lighting, a screen, a billboard, an electric gate. an automatic watering system, a mobile bollard, a sensing means, a speaker, a projecting means, a spraying/sanitizing device, etc.

In some embodiments, the external apparatus may correspond to the electric device.

In this manner, the controlling unit may provide additional practical functionalities. The power plug member may be connected directly to the power supplying interface or may be connected to a power converter configured for outputting a supply power at a desired voltage from the power supplied from the power supplying interface. Additionally, the power plug member may comprise a seal to prevent water ingress within the enclosure, preferably for providing an IP66 sealing rating.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the power plug member is serially connected to the relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module such as to supply power to the external apparatus upon switching of the relay contact module.

In this way, the controlling unit can advantageously provide the double functionality of powering and controlling the electric device through a convenient plugging interface. In an embodiment, the electric device is external from the controlling unit, and the external apparatus and the electric device are one and the same.

According to a preferred embodiment, the enclosure is further provided with a sensor plug connection interface mounted to the external surface thereof,

Additionally, in a typical embodiment, the sensor plug connection interface may be electrically connected to the receptacle. The sensor plug connection interface may be configured for transmitting sensed data from a sensor connected thereto to the pluggable module.

In this manner, also a sensing functionality may be provided to the controlling unit for probing the surrounding environment and further improving the intelligence capabilities of the controlling unit.

The sensor may comprise: a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a particle sensor, a RF sensor, an image-capturing sensor, a presence sensor, a light sensor, a sound sensor, a radar sensor, a vibration sensor, etc.

Depending on embodiments, the sensor connected to the sensor plug connection interface may be powered by the pluggable module or may be powered by an energy source via the power supplying interface. Also depending on embodiments, the sensed data may be directly transmitted to the pluggable module via a terminal comprised by the receptacle or may require the use of a dedicated data transmitting means between the sensor plug connection interface and the pluggable module.

Additionally, the sensor plug connection interface may comprise a seal to prevent water ingress within the enclosure, preferably for providing an IP66 sealing rating.

In an embodiment, the controlling unit is connected to a server wirelessly or in a wired manner via a network. The sensed data may then be transmitted by the pluggable module to the server.

Depending on embodiments, the sensor is connected to a processing means. The connection between the sensor and the processing means may be achieved wirelessly or in a wired manner. The processing means may be provided within the enclosure, in another device, in the pluggable module, or can be integrated with the sensor, etc. The processed data based on the sensed data may be used by the another device as a basis for an action. The processed data based on the sensed data may, additionally or alternatively, be used to control the at least one relay contact module.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the power supplying interface is connected to a mains input.

Optionally, the electric device is being supplied in power by the mains input via the relay contact module upon switching of the relay contact module.

In this way, the controlling unit may be directly connected to the grid by the user.

According to a preferred embodiment, the controlling unit further comprises an attaching means provided to the enclosure, said attaching means configured for attaching the controlling unit to a mounting support.

In this manner, the controlling unit may be readily fixed to the mounting support by the user. The mounting support may be, for example, a wall or a pole. The attaching means may comprise clamping means, fixing means, a bracket, a magnet, chemical bonding means, a U-bolt, a flexible tie, etc, In an embodiment, the attaching means may be provided with a orientable fixation between the attaching means and the enclosure such as to allow orienting the enclosure.

The skilled person will understand that features and advantages of the above-described aspects related to controlling unit embodiments apply, mutatis mutandis, to the below described aspect related to controlling system embodiments.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a controlling system for control of at least one electric device. The controlling system comprises: the controlling unit as described above; and the pluggable module comprising the plug configured for cooperating with the socket of the receptacle such as to electrically connect the pluggable module to the receptacle.

The skilled person will understand that features and advantages of the above-described aspects related to controlling unit embodiments and controlling system embodiments apply, mutatis mutandis, to the below described aspect related to remote controlled system embodiments.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a remotely controlled system controlling at least one electric device. The remotely controlled system comprises: the controlling system as described above; and the electric device of the at least one electric device connected to the relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module. The pluggable module further comprises a communication circuitry, preferably a long-range communication circuitry. The pluggable module is configured for transmitting the control signals to the at least one relay contact module, said control signals being received via the communication circuitry.

Due to the communication circuitry, e.g. Wi-Fi. the remotely controlled system may be readily connected via a network to a server. Management of the network, and therefore management of the remotely controlled system may be achieved by sending from the server the control signals.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an interfacing unit for interfacing with at least one electric device, comprising: an enclosure; a receptacle mounted to an external surface of the enclosure, said receptacle comprising a socket configured for cooperating with a plug of a pluggable module such as to electrically connect the pluggable module to the receptacle; a power supplying interface electrically connected with the at least one electric device.

The skilled person will understand that features and advantages of the above-described aspects related to controlling unit embodiments apply, mutatis mutandis, to the fourth aspect related to interfacing unit embodiments.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle is a Zhaga-type receptacle.

In this way, an appropriate receptacle is employed which can be readily used for transmitting power to the pluggable module. Additionally, the Zhaga-type receptacle may also be configured with terminals for transmitting data. The controlling unit may further comprise a power converter connected between the power supplying interface and the receptacle for converting a supply power voltage to the receptacle to 24V supply power.

In other embodiments, the receptacle is a NEMA-type receptacle, and the power can be directly transmitted through the power supplying interface, e.g. from a mains input connected thereto, to the receptacle.

According to a preferred embodiment, the enclosure is further provided with a sensor plug connection interface mounted to the external surface thereof.

In this manner, also a sensing functionality may be provided to the interfacing unit for probing the surrounding environment and further improving the intelligence capabilities of the interfacing unit.

The sensor may comprise: a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a particle sensor,

a RF sensor, an image-capturing sensor, a presence sensor, a light sensor, a sound sensor, a radar sensor, a vibration sensor, etc.

Additionally, the sensor plug connection interface may comprise a seal to prevent water ingress within the enclosure, preferably for providing an IP6G sealing rating.

In an embodiment. the controlling unit is connected to a server wirelessly or in a wired manner via a network. The sensed data may then be transmitted by the pluggable module to the server.

Depending on embodiments, the sensor is connected to a processing means. The connection between the sensor and the processing means may be achieved wirelessly or in a wired manner. The processing means may be provided within the enclosure, in another device, in the pluggable module, or can be integrated with the sensor, etc. The processed data based on the sensed data may be used by an electric device of the at least one electric device as a basis for an action.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

This and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings showing a currently preferred embodiment. Like numbers refer to like features throughout the drawings.

Figure 1 schematically depicts an exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system;

Figure 2 schematically depicts another exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system;

Figure 3 schematically depicts a further exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system;

Figure 4 schematically depicts yet another exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system;

Figures SA-5C show a side view, a perspective view, and an exploded view of exemplary embodiments of a controlling unit, respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Figure 1 schematically depicts an exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system controlling at least one electric device according to the present invention.

The remotely controlled system comprises: a controlling unit 10; an electric device 20 of the at least one electric device; and a pluggable module 30a. The controlling unit 10 comprises an enclosure 11, at least one relay contact module, a single relay contact module 13a in the embodiment of Fig.1, a receptacle 14, and a power supplying interface 15. The at least one relay contact module, the relay contact module 13a in Fig.1, is provided within the enclosure 11.

Depending on embodiments, the electric device 20 may be provided within the enclosure 11 of the controlling unit 10 or outside the enclosure 11 of the controlling unit 10, outside the enclosure 11 in the embodiment of Fig.1. The enclosure 11 is configured for protecting the relay contact module 13a against the external environment. as well as various circuitry contained within, Depending on embodiments, the various circuitry may include one or more of a power converter, a processing means, a power surge protecting means (e.g. fuses), a memory, a dedicated data transmitting means, a battery, a screen on the surface of the enclosure, a power meter, an accelerometer, etc.

The relay contact module 13a 1s configured for being connected to the electric device 20 of the at least one electric device. Preferably, the relay contact module 13a is connected in series with the electric device 20. In the embodiment of Fig.1, the power supplying interface 15 is electrically connected in series with the relay contact module 13a and the electric device 20. The relay contact module 13a may be connected to the electric device, for example, using a sheathed wire passing through a grommet in the enclosure 11. Depending on embodiments, the power supplying interface 15 is configured to be connected to any one or more of: an energy storage means like a battery, a mains input, a power converter, a solar panel, a wind turbine, etc.

The receptacle 14 is mounted to an external surface 12 of the enclosurel 1, an upper surface of the enclosure in the embodiment of Fig.1. In another embodiment, the receptacle may be mounted to a side surface or lower surface of the enclosure. For example, a gasket such as described in PCT/EP2022/050240 or in WO2022/029099A 1 can be used in a receptacle assembly including the receptacle and said gasket. The receptacle 14 acts as an electrical interface between both sides of the external surface of the enclosure. Additionally, a sealing means (not shown) may be provided in contact with the receptacle 14 and the external surface 12 and may be configured for preventing water ingress at the level of the mounting of the receptacle 14, preferably for providing an IP66 sealing rating.

The receptacle 14 may comprise a socket (not shown) configured for cooperating with a plug (not shown) of the pluggable module 30a such as to electrically connect the pluggable module 30a to the receptacle 14. The socket may comprise a plurality of terminals (not shown), and the plug may comprise a corresponding plurality of contacts, in particular a plurality of protruding contacts (not shown), configured to cooperate with the plurality of terminals to establish the electrical connection between the pluggable module 30a and the receptacle 14. In an embodiment, the socket and plug cooperate mechanically following a twist-lock mechanism. The electrical connection established in that manner between the plurality of terminals and the plurality of contacts may be used for powering the pluggable module 30a. Optionally, the electrical connection may further be used for data transmission from and/or to the pluggable module 30a.

In an embodiment, the receptacle 14 may be a NEMA-type receptacle. Power can be directly transmitted through the power supplying interface 15, e.g. from a mains input connected thereto, to the receptacle 14, for supplying power to the pluggable module 30a through power terminals of the receptacle 14. Additionally, the NEMA-type receptacle may also be configured with data terminals for transmitting data. In another embodiment, the receptacle 14 may be a

Zhaga-type receptacle, and the controlling unit 10 may comprise a power converter (not shown) connected between the power supplying interface 15 and the receptacle 14 for converting a supply power voltage to 24V supply power.

In the embodiment of Fig.1, the relay contact module 13a is configured to communicate with the pluggable module 30a. The communication between the pluggable module and each relay contact module may be achieved wirelessly, e.g. via Bluetooth, and/or in a wired manner, e.g. via the electrical connection between the receptacle and the pluggable module. Thanks to this communication, a switching (on and off) of the relay contact module 13a may be commanded, thereby allowing the control of the electric device 20 connected thereto. Mainly, the switching of the relay contact module 13a enables controlling the supply of power of the electric device 20 from an energy source connected to the power supplying interface 15.

More specifically, in the embodiment of Fig.1, the pluggable module 30a comprises a first short-range transceiver 32 in communication with a second short-range transceiver 16 comprised by the controlling unit 10. The pluggable module 30a further comprises a communication circuitry 31, preferably a long-range communication circuitry. The pluggable module 30a is configured for transmitting the control signals to the relay contact module 13a, said control signals being received via the communication circuitry 31. The second short-range transceiver 16 is configured for transmitting the control signals received from the first short-range transceiver 32 to the relay contact module 13a such as to switch the relay contact modulel3a. In an embodiment, the control signals may be sent between the first short-range transceiver 32 and the second short-range transceiver 16 according to a wireless DALI communication protocol.

Figure 2 schematically depicts another exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system controlling at least one electric device according to the present invention.

The remotely controlled system comprises: a controlling unit 10; at least one electric device, a first electric device 20 and a second electric device 21 in the embodiment of Fig.2; and a pluggable module 30b. The controlling unit 10 comprises an enclosure 11, at least one relay contact module, a first relay contact module 13a and a second relay contact module 13b in the embodiment of Fig.2, a receptacle 14, and a power supplying interface 15°. The first and second relay contact modules 13a, 13b are provided within the enclosure 11 in the embodiment of Fig.2.

The first and second electric devices 20, 21 are provided outside of the enclosure 11 in the embodiment of Fig.2.

The receptacle 14 is mounted to an external surface 12 of the enclosurel 1, an upper surface of the enclosure in the embodiment of Fig.2. The receptacle 14 may comprise a socket (not shown) configured for cooperating with a plug (not shown) of the pluggable module 30b such as to electrically connect the pluggable module 30 to the receptacle 14.

Each relay contact module 13a, 13b of the at least one relay contact module is configured to communicate with the pluggable module 30b. More specifically, in the embodiment of Fig.2, the controlling unit 10 further comprises an interfacing bus 17 electrically connected to the receptacle 14. The interfacing bus 17 is configured for transmitting control signals to the at least one relay contact module 13a, 13b such as to control a switching of the at least one relay contact module 13a, 13b. The interfacing bus 17 and the at least one relay contact module 13a, 13b may be configured for communicating using a DALI communication protocol. In alternative embodiments, other short-range and/or long-range communication protocols can be employed, such as LoRa,

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wireless DALI 6LoWPAN (Wi-SUN), etc.

Moreover, each relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module 13a, 13b may be associated to a unique identifier and may be configured to perform switching based on a control signal including the associated unique identifier. For example, the first relay contact module 13a may be associated with a first unique identifier ID1, and the second relay contact module 13b may be associated with a second unique identifier ID2. Each unique identifier ID1 and ID2 may be stored in a memory (not shown) of the respective relay contact module, the first relay contact module 13a and the second relay contact module 13b, respectively. It follows that, every relay contact module 13a, 13b may receive the same control signal from the pluggable module 30b via the interfacing bus 17. The control signal may comprise a header containing one or more unique identifiers ID1, ID2. Upon reading the one or more unique identifiers ID1, ID2 in the control signal, the corresponding one or more relay contact modules 13a, 13b may recognize that the control signal is directed to them and switch according to the received control signal.

Also, in the embodiment of Fig.2, the first relay contact module 13a is configured for being connected to the first electric device 20, and the second relay contact module 13b is configured for being connected to the second electric device 21. So, depending on the unique identifier ID1, ID2 used in the control signal, a selective control of the first electric device 20 and/or the second electric device 21 may be achieved. Indeed, upon switching the first relay contact module 13a or the second relay contact module 13b, power may be supplied through the power supplying interface 15’ to the first electric device 20 or the second electric device 21, respectively, due to the connection in series of the power supplying interface with the first or second relay contact module 13a, 13b and the first or second electric device 20, 21, the first and second relay contact modules 13a, 13b being connected in parallel.

The pluggable module 30b further comprises a communication circuitry 31, preferably a long-range communication circuitry. The pluggable module 30b in the embodiment of Fig.2 is configured for transmitting the control signals via the interfacing bus 17 to the first and second relay contact modules 13a, 13b. The control signals which are transmitted are first being received by the communication circuitry 31.

The power supplying interface 15° of the embodiment of Fig.2 is connected to a mains input. So, the first and second electric devices 20, 21 are being supplied in power by the mains input via the first and second relay contact modules 13a, 13b, respectively, upon switching.

Figure 3 schematically depicts a further exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system controlling at least one electric device according to the present invention.

The remotely controlled system comprises: a controlling unit 10; at least one electric device, a single electric device 22 in the embodiment of Fig.3; and a pluggable module 30b. The controlling unit 10 comprises an enclosure 11, at least one relay contact module, a first relay contact module 13a, a second relay contact module 13b, a third relay contact module 13c, and a fourth relay contact module 13d in the embodiment of Fig.3, a receptacle 14, and a power supplying interface 15°. The first to fourth relay contact modules 13a-13d are provided within the enclosure 11 in the embodiment of Fig.3.

The receptacle 14 is mounted to an external surface 12 of the enclosure 11, an upper surface of the enclosure in the embodiment of Fig.3. The receptacle 14 may comprise a socket (not shown) configured for cooperating with a plug (not shown) of the pluggable module 30b such as to electrically connect the pluggable module 30b to the receptacle 14.

Each relay contact module 13a-13d of the at least one relay contact module is configured to communicate with the pluggable module 30b. More specifically, in the embodiment of Fig.3, the controlling unit 10 further comprises an interfacing bus 17 electrically connected to the receptacle 14. The interfacing bus 17 is configured for transmitting control signals to the at least one relay contact module 13a-13d such as to control a switching of the at least one relay contact module 13a- 13d. The interfacing bus 17 and the at least one relay contact module 13a-13d may be configured for communicating using a DALI communication protocol. In alternative embodiments, other short-range and/or long-range communication protocols can be employed, such as LoRa,

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, wireless DALI 6LoWPAN (Wi-SUN), etc.

Moreover, each relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module 13a-13d may be associated to a unique identifier and may be configured to perform switching based on a control signal including the associated unique identifier. For example, the first relay contact module 13a may be associated with a first unique identifier ID1, the second relay contact module 13b may be associated with a second unique identifier ID2, the third relay contact module 13c may be associated with a third unique identifier ID3, and the fourth relay contact module 13d may be associated with a fourth unique identifier ID4. Bach unique identifier ID1-ID4 may be stored in a memory (not shown) of the respective relay contact module, the first to fourth relay contact modules 13a-13d, respectively. It follows that, every relay contact module 13a-13d may receive the same control signal from the pluggable module 30b. The control signal may comprise a header containing one or more unique identifiers ID1-ID4. Upon reading the one or more unique identifiers ID1-ID4 in the control signal, the corresponding one or more relay contact modules 13a- 13d may recognize that the control signal is directed to them and switch according to the received control signal.

In the embodiment of Fig.3, the electric device 22 of the at least one electric device comprises a wireless control circuitry configured for wireless communication, preferably short- range. Bach input 22a-22d of the wireless control circuitry is connected to a corresponding relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module 13a-13d. Depending on embodiment, the inputs 22a-22d of the wireless control circuitry and the corresponding at least one relay contact module 13a-13d are connected wirelessly or in a wired manner. Further, each input 22a-22d is associated with a different output channel of the wireless control circuitry. Each output channel of the wireless control circuitry may be configured for sending a different kind of command signal.

The wireless control circuitry may be configured for wirelessly sending command signals to a remote apparatus 40 in communication therewith upon switching of the relay contact modules 13a-13d. In the embodiment of Fig.3, the wireless control circuitry of the electric device 22 and the remote apparatus 40 are configured for communicating using a DMX communication protocol.

In the embodiment of Fig.3, the remote apparatus 40 comprises a lighting unit with four different types of light emitters 41a-41d, and the wireless control circuitry of the electric device 22 comprises a wireless controller, such as a short-range wireless controller, e.g. a Casambi controller, configured for transmitting lighting signals to the remote apparatus 40 as the command signals.

The lighting signal may comprise lighting duration data, lighting hue data, lighting time frequency data, dimming data, or light distribution data, dimming data in the embodiment of Fig.3. Thus, each relay contact module 13a-13d may be configured for controlling a different type of light emitter 41a-41d of the lighting unit.

Depending on embodiments, more than one remote apparatus 40 can be remotely controlled, and/or more than one kind of command signal can be sent to one remote apparatus 40 via the wireless control circuitry of the electric device 22.

The pluggable module 30b further comprises a communication circuitry 31, preferably a long-range communication circuitry. The pluggable module 30b in the embodiment of Fig.3 is configured for transmitting the control signals via the interfacing bus 17 to the first to fourth relay contact modules 13a-13d. The control signals which are transmitted are first being received by the communication circuitry 31.

The power supplying interface 15° of the embodiment of Fig.3 is connected to a mains input. So, the electric device 22 is being supplied in power by the mains input, and its inputs are detecting the change in voltage of the first to fourth relay contact modules 13a-13d, respectively, upon switching.

Figure 4 schematically depicts yet another exemplary embodiment of a remotely controlled system controlling at least one electric device according to the present invention.

The remotely controlled system comprises: a controlling unit 10; at least one electric device, a single electric device 23 in the embodiment of Fig.4; and a pluggable module 30c. The controlling unit 10 comprises an enclosure 11, at least one relay contact module, a single relay contact module 13a in the embodiment of Fig.4, a receptacle 14, and a power supplying interface 15’. The at least one relay contact module, the relay contact module 13a in Fig.4, is provided within the enclosure 11. The electric device 23 is provided outside the enclosure 11 of the controlling unit 10 in the embodiment of Fig.4.

In the embodiment of Fig 4. the enclosure 11 is further provided with a first power plug member 18a mounted to the external surface thereof, and a second power plug member 18b mounted to the external surface thereof. The first power plug member 18a is connected with the power supplying interface 15°, the relay contact module 13a, and the electric device 23 such that, upon switching of the relay contact module 13a, the electric device 23 is supplied in power by an energy source through the power supplying interface 15°. The second power plug member 18a is connected with the power supplying interface 15° and an external apparatus 45, and is configured for supplying power to the external apparatus 45 connected thereto.

Depending on embodiments, the power plug member 18a, 18b may be connected directly to the power supplying interface 15° or may be connected to a power converter configured for outputting a supply power at a desired voltage from the power supplied through the power supplying interface 15°. Additionally, the power plug member 18a, 18b may comprise a seal to prevent water ingress within the enclosure 11, preferably for providing an IP66 sealing rating.

In the embodiment of Fig 4, the enclosure 11 is further provided with a sensor plug connection interface 19 mounted to the external surface 12 thereof. The sensor plug connection interface 19 is electrically connected to the receptacle 14. The sensor plug connection interface 19 is configured for transmitting sensed data from a sensor 50 connected thereto to the pluggable module 30c. The sensor 50 may comprise: a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a particle sensor, a RF sensor, an image-capturing sensor, a presence sensor, a light sensor, a sound sensor, a radar sensor, a vibration sensor, etc. Additionally, the sensor plug connection interface 19 may comprise a seal to prevent water ingress within the enclosure 11, preferably for providing an [P66 sealing rating.

Depending on embodiments, the sensor 50 connected to the sensor plug connection interface 19 may be powered by the pluggable module 30c or may be powered through the power supplying interface 15°. In the embodiment of Fig.4, the sensor 50 is powered through the power supplying interface 15° via a power converter 15” configured for converting a supply power voltage.

Also depending on embodiments, the sensor data may be directly transmitted to the pluggable module 30c via a terminal comprised by the receptacle 14 or may require the use of a dedicated data transmitting means between the sensor plug connection interface 19 and the pluggable module 30c. In the embodiment of Fig.4. the sensor data is transmitted directly to the pluggable module 30c. More particularly, the pluggable module 30c comprises a controller 33. The controller 33 communicates with the relay contact module 13a via an interfacing bus 17 and send control signals based on the sensor data received.

The skilled person will understand that the remotely controlled system may be integrated in a network, and the controlling unit 10 in particular may be connected to a server wirelessly or in a wired manner via the network. The sensed data may be transmitted by the pluggable module 30c tothe server in that way.

Figures 5A-5C show a side view, a perspective view, and an exploded view of exemplary embodiments of a controlling unit, respectively, according to the present invention.

In Figure 5A, a controlling unit 10a’ is shown which comprises an enclosure 11a’, at least one relay contact module provided within the enclosure (not shown), a receptacle 36a, and a power supplying interface (not shown). The controlling unit 10a’ is configured for control of at least one electric device, a hanging lantern luminaire 20a’ in the embodiment of Fig. SA. The hanging lantern luminaire 20a’ is provided to a wall-mounted mounting support 65a. The controlling unit 10a’ may also be provided to the wall-mounted mounting support 65a, in an upper part thereof, via an attaching means (not shown) such as a pair of bolts. The receptacle 36a may be mounted to an upper external surface of the enclosure 11a’. A pluggable module 35a may be coupled to the receptacle 36a. The controlling unit 10a” and the hanging lantern luminaire 20a” may be connected in a wired manner, and lighting data received by communication circuitry within the pluggable module 35a may be used for control of the hanging lantern luminaire 20a’.

In Figure SB, a controlling unit 10b’ is shown which comprises an enclosure 11b°, at least one relay contact module provided within the enclosure (not shown), a receptacle 36b, and a power supplying interface (not shown). The receptacle 36b may be mounted to a lower external surface of the enclosure 115’. A pluggable module 35b may be coupled to the receptacle 36b. An attaching means is provided to an external surface of the enclosure 11b’. The attaching means is configured for getting attached to a mounting support. In the embodiment of Fig.5B, the mounting support may be fixed to a wall or a ceiling. The mounting support comprises a base 65b and a pair of arms 64b extending substantially perpendicular to the base 65b of the mounting support 65b. The attaching means comprises a pair of attaching plates 66b extending away from the enclosure 11b’, substantially perpendicular with respect to the external surface of the enclosure 11b'. Each of the attaching plates 66b comprises a pivot axle 61b configured to cooperate with a corresponding slot at an extremity of the arm 64b of the mounting support. Also, each of the attaching plates 66b comprises a plurality of positioning holes 62b. For each of the attaching plates 66b, a positioning pin 63b may be slid through one of the positioning holes 62b and a corresponding hole (not shown) of the arm 64b of the mounting support. Doing so, an angular positioning of the enclosure 11b’ relative to the base 65b of the mounting support may be fixed.

In Figure 5C, a controlling unit 10¢’ is shown which comprises an enclosure 11c’, at least one relay contact module provided within the enclosure (not shown), a receptacle 36c, and a power supplying interface 15c. The receptacle 36c may be mounted to an upper external surface of the enclosure 11¢”. A pluggable module 35c may be coupled to the receptacle 36c. In the embodiment of Fig.5C, the enclosure 11¢’ is substantially cylindrical. The enclosure 11¢’ is configured to be mounted to a mounting support, a tubular pole 65c in the embodiment of Fig. 5C. More particularly, an outer diameter of the enclosure 11e’ is sized such that the enclosure can be placed within the tabular pole 65c, at least partially. The enclosure 11c° may be fixed to the tubular pole 65c using a plurality of bolts. The power supplying interface 15c may be provided to a lower external surface of the enclosure 11¢’, opposite the receptacle 36c. The power supplying interface 15¢ may be configured for being connected to a mains input going through the tubular pole 65c.

The skilled person will understand that also a sensing functionality may be provided to the controlling unit, wirelessly or in a wired manner, of any of the embodiments of Fig.5A-5C, for probing the surrounding environment and further improving the intelligence capabilities of the controlling unit. The sensor may comprise: a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a gas sensor, a particle sensor, a RF sensor, an image-capturing sensor, a presence sensor, a light sensor, a sound sensor, a radar sensor, a vibration sensor, etc.

Whilst the principles of the invention have been set out above in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that this description is merely made by way of example and not as a limitation of the scope of protection which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

CONCLUSIONS

1. A control unit (10) for controlling at least one electrical device, comprising: - a housing (11); - at least one relay contact module provided within the housing (11), a relay contact module (134) of the at least one relay contact module being configured to be connected to an electrical device (20) of the at least one electrical device; - a receptacle (14) mounted on an outer surface (12) of the housing (11), the receptacle (14) comprising a socket configured to mate with a plug of a pluggable module (30a) such that the pluggable module (30a) is electrically connected to the receptacle (14); - each relay contact module (13a) of the at least one relay contact module being configured to communicate with the pluggable module (30a); - a power supply interface (15) electrically connected to the relay contact module (13a) and the electrical device (20).

2. The control unit of claim 1, further comprising an interface bus (17) electrically connected to the receptacle (14), the interface bus (17) configured to transmit control signals to the at least one relay contact module (13a, 13b) to control switching of the at least one relay contact module (13a, 13b).

3. The control unit of claim 1 or 2, wherein each relay contact module (13a, 13b) of the at least one relay contact module is associated with a unique identification code and is configured to switch based on a control signal with the associated unique identification code.

4. The control unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one relay contact module comprises a plurality of relay contact modules (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d), preferably four relay contact modules

5. The control unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pluggable module (30a) and the at least one relay contact module (13a, 13b) are configured for communication via a DALI communication protocol.

6. The control unit according to any of claims 2 and 5, optionally in combination with claim 3 or 4, wherein the interface bus (17) is configured for communication via the DALI communication protocol.

7. The control unit according to any one of the preceding claims, - wherein the electrical device (22) of the at least one electrical device comprises a wireless control circuit configured for wireless communication, preferably short-range wireless communication; - wherein an input (22a, 22b, 22¢, 22d) of the wireless control circuit is connected to the relay contact module of the at least one relay contact module (13a, 13b, 13¢, 13d); and - wherein the wireless control circuit is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal to a remote device (40) in communication therewith, upon switching the relay contact module (13a, 13b, 13c, 13d).

8. The control unit of claim 7, wherein the wireless control circuit of the electrical device (22) and the remote device (40) are configured to communicate via a DMX communication protocol.

9. The control unit of claim 7 or 8, wherein the remote device (40) comprises a lighting unit and wherein the control signal comprises a lighting signal for the lighting unit.

10. The control unit of any preceding claim, wherein the receptacle (14) is a NEMA type receptacle.

11. The control unit of any preceding claim, - wherein the housing further comprises a power connector member (18b) mounted on the outer surface thereof; and - wherein the power connector member (18b) is configured to supply power to an external device (45) connected thereto.

12. The control unit according to claim 11,

- wherein the power plug member (18b) is connected in series with the relay contact module (13a) of the at least one relay contact module to supply power to the external device (45) when the relay contact module (13a) is switched.

13. The control unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing (11) further comprises a sensor connector interface (19) mounted on the outer surface (12) thereof.

14. The control unit of claim 13, - wherein the sensor plug connection interface (19) is electrically connected to the socket (14); and - wherein the sensor plug connection interface (19) is configured to transmit data from a sensor (50) connected thereto to the pluggable modal (30a).

15. The control unit according to any preceding claim, wherein the power supply interface (157) is connected to mains power.

16. The control unit of any preceding claim, further comprising a mounting means provided on the housing (11), the mounting means configured to secure the control unit (10) to a mounting bracket.

17. A control system for controlling at least one electrical appliance comprising: - the control unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims; - the pluggable module (30a, 30b, 30c) comprising the plug configured to cooperate with the socket of the receptacle (14) such that the pluggable module (30a, 30b, 30c) is electrically connected to the receptacle (14).

18. A remotely controlled system controlling at least one electrical device, comprising: - the control system according to claim 17; - wherein the pluggable module (30b) further comprises a communication circuit (31), preferably a long-distance communication circuit; - wherein the pluggable module (30b) is configured to transmit control signals to the relay contact module (13a, 13b) of the at least one relay contact module, the control signals being received via the communication circuit (31);

- the electrical appliance (20, 21) of the at least one electrical appliance connected to the relay contact module (13a, 13b) of the at least one relay contact module.