Control module for engergy management system

Abstract

A control module for controlling at least one variable-power-consuming load responsive to data input from local and/or remote locations, utilizes a controller microcomputer having an output setting the gain of a variable gain amplifier. The variable gain amplifier operates on a substantially-constant output of an oscillator to provide, on a cycle-by-cycle or long-term basis, a periodic waveform of controlled amplitude to the at least one load. The amplitude of the waveform sets the energy consumption/output of the load. Another data bus facilitates connection of local control means to a control module interface providing local control information to the controller microcomputer, while a third data bus is dedicated to communication with a remote central controller, if used. The control module includes circuitry for allowing a unique local address to be set for a particular control module, to which unique address the control module responds when a plurality of such control modules are connected in parallel to a central controller. A fourth data bus connects local sensors, such a photocells, thermistors and the like, through analog-to-digital conversion circuitry to the controller microcomputer, to facilitate control of the local loads responsive to local ambient conditions. The maximum level of the load(s) connected to a control module may be programmably established such that this maximum level can not be exceeded by local and/or remote commands, until the maximum level is altered.