FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a control system arranged to control at least one controllable device associated with a building space for controlling environmental conditions in the building space, and more particularly to a control system according to preamble of claim 1. The present invention further relates to a method for controlling at least one controllable device associated with a building space for controlling environmental conditions in the building space, and more particularly to a method according to preamble of claim 10.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Environmental condition properties in building spaces, such as rooms or office spaces, are conventionally controlled one or more controllable devices, such as HVAC (humidity, ventilation, air conditioning) devices and lightning devices. The environmental condition properties may comprise humidity, temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, air pressure oxygen concentration or light intensity or light spectrum. The operation of these controllable devices is usually controlled with a control system comprising a user interface with which the user may set preferred control parameters, such as preferred temperature. The control system further comprises one or more sensors for measuring the environmental condition properties in the building space. Then the operation of the controllable devices is controlled by comparing the measured environmental condition properties and the preferred control parameters. This is conventionally carried out by utilizing a thermostat in the building space.

There are also control systems which are arranged to detect a presence of a person or number of persons in the building space and controlling operation and the environmental condition properties in the building space based on the presence of person or the number of persons in the building space. In this case the controllable devices are simply controlled based on the presence information or number of persons present in the building space.

One disadvantage relating to the prior art is that controlling the operation of the controllable devices and the environmental condition properties is not based on needs or characteristics of objects, persons, animals or plants in the building space. Accordingly, the environmental condition properties of the building space are controlled based on general control principles without taking into account specific needs of the object(s), person(s), animal(s) or plant(s) in the building space at specific moment in time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a control system and method for controlling environmental conditions in the building space such that the prior art disadvantages are solved or at least alleviated. The objects of the invention are achieved by the control system which is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 1. The objects of the invention are further achieved by the method which is characterized by what is stated in the independent claim 10.

The preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

The invention is based on the idea of providing a control system arranged to control at least one controllable device associated with a building space for controlling environmental conditions in the building space. The control system comprises a control unit configured to control operation of the at least one controllable device based on target parameters. The control system further comprises two or more reference devices provided to two or more reference objects. The control system also comprises an occupancy module arranged to detect presence of the reference objects in the building space, and a communication module configured to provide communication connection between two or more reference devices and the control unit. According to the present invention, each of the two or more reference devices is configured to provide individual target parameter data specific to the two or more reference objects, respectively. The communication module is configured to transmit the individual target parameter data of the two or more reference objects, respectively, to the control unit as a response to detecting the presence of the two or more reference objects in the building space. Further, the control unit is configured to control operation of the at least one controllable device based on the individual target parameter data of the two or more reference objects detected in the building space.

Accordingly, the control system is arranged to detect the presence of two or more reference objects in the building space and to provide the target individual parameter data of the detected reference objects to the control unit such that the control unit is capable of controlling the at least one controllable device, and thus the environmental conditions of the building space, based on the individual target parameter data specific to the two or more reference objects which are detected in the building space. Thus, the control of the controllable devices, and the environmental conditions, is based in specific needs and characteristics of the particular reference objects present in the building space.

The reference device may comprise a reference device memory configured to store a reference object identifier as the individual target parameter data. The reference device may also comprise reference device memory configured to store the pre-determined individual target parameters or a pre-determined individual target parameter function as the individual target parameter data. Accordingly, the reference device may have a specific identifier representing the reference object or pre-determined individual target parameters or individual target parameter function specific to the reference object stored to the reference device. Thus, the communication module may transmit the identifier or the pre determined individual target parameters or a pre-determined individual target parameter function to the control unit for controlling the at least one controllable device.

The reference device may comprise a reference device memory configured to store a pre-determined individual target parameter function, and a reference device processor configured to calculate the individual target parameters by utilizing the individual target parameter function or the individual target parameter function and at least one variable input parameter, the calculated individual target parameters representing the individual target parameter data. Accordingly, the reference device may be configured to calculate the target parameters or the target parameter data for a specific moment in time or specific circumstances, for example a time of a day or month or year.

The reference device may comprise one or more reference object sensors arranged to measure at least one reference object physical value for providing the individual target parameter data. Alternatively, the control system may comprise one or more separate reference object sensors, meaning separate from the reference device, provided to the reference object or in connection with the reference object, and arranged to measure at least one reference object physical value for providing the individual target parameter data. The at least one reference object physical value represent the individual target parameter data as such or it may be utilized the variable input parameter in the pre-determined individual target parameter function. The reference object sensor is configured to measure at least one physical value of the reference object such that the measured physical value may be utilized for controlling the at least controllable device.

The reference object sensor may comprise for example one or more of the following: a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature of the reference object, a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity of the reference object, a motion sensor configured to measure motion of the reference object in the building space, or a body sensor configured to measure one or more body value of a human or animal body. The human or animal body may thus be the reference object, and the measured body value may be for example heart rate, temperature or motion.

The control system may further comprise one or more building space sensors provided to the building space. The building space sensor are arranged to measure at least one building space physical value as a measured parameter. The building space physical value or the measured parameter may be utilized to determine the existing environmental conditions in the building space and/or the difference between the target parameters and the measured parameters for controlling the at least one controllable device.

The building space sensor may comprise one or more of the following: a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature in the building space, a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity in the building space, a carbon dioxide sensor configured to measure carbon dioxide concentration in the building space, an air pressure sensor configured to measure air pressure in the building space and a light sensor configured to measure light intensity or light spectrum in the building space. Accordingly, the controllable apparatus may be for example, an air-conditioning device, a heater, a humidifier, a ventilation device or light source.

The control unit may comprise a control unit processor configured to calculate or provide the individual target parameters by utilizing the reference object identifier, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects. The control unit processor may be configured to utilize specific pre-determined individual target parameters representing the specific reference object identifier. The pre-determined individual target parameters may be stored to the control unit or to a target parameter database accessible to the control unit. Further, the reference object identifier may be stored in the control unit or in the target parameter database in association with the pre-determined individual target parameters of the reference object. Thus, the control unit may utilize the pre determined individual target parameters as response to receiving the reference object identifier from the reference device. The control unit or the target parameter database may compare the received reference object identifier to all the reference object identifiers in the control unit or in the target parameter database for providing the pre-determined individual target parameters of the reference object(s) detected in the building space.

Alternatively, the control unit may be configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on the pre-determined individual target parameters. In this case, the control unit may receive the pre determined individual target parameters directly from the reference device.

The control unit may comprise a control unit processor configured to calculate the individual target parameters by utilizing the pre-determined individual target parameter function, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on the calculated individual target parameters. In this case, the reference device may provide the individual target parameter function to the control unit and the control unit may calculate, by the individual target parameter function and utilizing instructions stored in a control unit memory and executed by the control unit processor, the individual target parameters.

The control unit may be configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on comparison of the pre-determined individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects and the measured parameters. Accordingly, the control unit may control the operation of the controllable devices such that the environmental conditions in the building space may correspond pre-determined individual target parameters.

The control unit may also comprise a control unit processor configured to calculate the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects by utilizing the pre-determined individual target parameter function, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on comparison of the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects and the measured parameters. The control unit may utilize pre-determined individual target parameter function such that the individual target parameters may vary based on one or more variable input parameter, such as time or measured target parameters. The pre-determined individual target parameter function may be further configured to calculate the individual target parameters. The control of the controllable devices may be based on individual target parameter obtained by utilizing the pre-determined individual target parameter function. The control unit may also comprise a control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the pre-determined individual target parameter function and at least one variable input parameter, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on comparison of the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects and the measured parameters. Thus, the controllable devices maybe controlled by utilizing both the pre-determined individual target parameter function and the measured parameters.

The occupancy module may comprise at least one of the following: a Bluetooth beacon configured to provide location identification of the reference device in the in the building space, a local area network configured to provide location identification of the reference device in the in the building space, an indoor positioning system configured to provide location identification of the reference device in the in the building space, a camera or microphone configured to detect the reference object in the building space by utilizing image recognition or voice recognition, and an occupancy registration interface provided in connection with the building space configured to provide location registration on request by a user. The occupancy module may thus be configured to automatically detect presence of the reference device in the building space or alternatively occupancy model may be configured to detect the presence of the reference device in the building as response to registration request of the user acting as the reference object or acting on behalf of the reference object.

The control unit may be a central control unit arranged to control at least one controllable central device common to two or more separate building spaces. In this case, there is at least partly centralized control system for controlling the environmental conditions in two or more separate building space or at least part of the parameters affecting the environmental conditions in the two or more separate building spaces.

The control unit may also be a building space specific control unit arranged to control a building space specific controllable device associate with one specific building space. In this case, there is separate control system for controlling the environmental conditions in specific building space or at least part of the parameters affecting the environmental conditions in the specific building space.

It should be noted, that the control system may also be combination of centralized and building space specific control system such that the control system comprises comprise both the central control unit and one or more building space specific control units

The present invention further relates to a method for controlling at least one controllable device associated with a building space for controlling environmental conditions in the building space. The method comprises detecting presence of two or more reference devices or reference objects in the building space, the two or more reference device being provided to a reference object, providing individual target parameters of each of the two or more reference objects with the reference device upon detecting the presence of the two or more reference devices or the reference objects in the building space, each reference object having the individual target parameters being specific to the reference object, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects detected in the building space. Accordingly, controlling the controllable devices and the environmental conditions is based on the target parameters which are specific for a certain reference object.

Detecting the presence of the two or more reference objects in the building space may comprises automatically detecting the presence of the reference devices or the reference objects in the building space with an occupancy module. Thus, the detecting may automatically detect when the reference object enters, stays and leaves the building space.

Detecting the presence of the two or more reference devices or the reference objects in the building space may comprise detecting the presence of the two or more reference device or the reference object upon occupancy registration request of a user in the building space. In this case, the user may carry out registration of the reference device or reference object in the building space. Thus, the detecting is not carried automatically but on request by the user.

Providing the individual target parameters of the reference object may comprise transmitting pre-determined individual target parameters from the reference device to the control unit. The pre-determined individual target parameters may be stored in a reference device memory. Accordingly, the pre determined individual target parameters are incorporated to the reference device.

Providing the individual target parameters may also comprise transmitting a reference object identifier from the reference device to the control unit, and matching, by utilizing instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, the reference object identifier to pre-determined individual target parameters specific to the reference object. In this case, the reference device may be incorporated with the identifier specific to the reference object and the identifier is transmitted to the control unit. In this case, providing the target parameters may comprise transmitting the reference device identifier to the control unit and matching the received reference object identifier to a stored reference object identifier in the control unit or in the target parameter database accessible to the control unit. The pre-determined individual target parameters of the reference object are stored in the control unit or on the target parameter database in association with the reference object identifier. Thus, upon matching the control unit receives the pre-determined individual target parameters for controlling the controllable device.

Providing the target parameters may comprise transmitting a pre determined individual target parameter function from the reference device to the control unit, and calculating, by utilizing the target parameter function and instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, the individual target parameters specific to the reference object. In this case, reference device may be provided with the pre-determined individual target parameter function or the pre-determined individual target parameter function may be stored in the memory of the reference device.

Alternatively, providing the target parameters may comprise calculating, by utilizing a pre-determined individual target parameter function stored a reference device memory and instructions stored in the reference device memory and executed by a reference device processor, the individual target parameters specific to the reference object, and transmitting the calculated individual target parameters from the reference device to the control unit. In this case, the reference device determines the individual target parameters utilizing the pre-determined individual target parameter function.

Providing the target parameters of the reference object may comprise measuring at least one reference object physical value with a reference object sensor provided to the reference device or to the reference object, transmitting the measured reference object physical value from the reference device to the control unit, and calculating, by utilizing the measured reference object physical value and instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, the individual target parameters specific to the reference object. Thus, the individual target parameters may be based on measuring at least one reference object physical value.

Alternatively, providing the individual target parameters of the reference object may comprise measuring at least one reference object physical value with a reference object sensor provided to the reference device or to the reference object, calculating, by utilizing the measured reference object physical value and instructions stored in the reference device memory and executed by a reference device processor, the individual target parameters specific to the reference object, and transmitting the calculated individual target parameters from the reference device to the control unit.

Measuring the at least one reference object physical value may comprise one or more of the following: measuring temperature of the reference object with a temperature sensor, measuring humidity of the reference object with a humidity sensor, measuring motion of the reference object in the building space with a motion sensor, and measuring one or more body value of a human or animal body with a body sensor, the human or animal body being the reference object.

The method of the present invention may further comprise measuring at least one building space physical value with a building space sensor in the building space, transmitting the at least one measured building space physical value from the building space sensor to the control unit, and calculating, by utilizing the at least one measured building space physical value and instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, measured parameters of the building space. Accordingly, controlling the environmental conditions may be based on the measured parameters and the individual target parameters specific to the reference device.

Alternatively, the method of the present invention may further comprise measuring at least one building space physical value with a building space sensor in the building space, calculating, by utilizing the at least one measured building space physical value and instructions stored in the building space sensor memory and executed by a building space sensor processor, measured parameters of the building space, and transmitting the calculated measured parameters from the building space sensor to the control unit.

Measuring the at least one building space physical value may comprise one or more of the following: measuring temperature in the building space with a temperature sensor, measuring humidity in the building space with a humidity sensor, measuring carbon dioxide concentration in the building space with a carbon dioxide sensor, measuring air pressure with an air pressure sensor in the building space, or measure light intensity or light spectrum in the building space with a light sensor. Controlling the at least one controllable device based on the target parameters may comprise controlling the at least one controllable device based on the pre-determined individual target parameters or calculated target parameters of the two or more reference objects. Thus, controlling is carried out directly according to the pre-determined individual target parameters or the calculated target parameters.

Controlling the at least one controllable device based on the individual target parameters may comprise comparing the pre-determined individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects and the measured parameters, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the comparison of the pre-determined individual target parameters and the measured parameters. Thus, controlling is carried out based on the difference between the pre-determined individual target parameters and the measured parameters.

Controlling the at least one controllable device based on the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects may comprise comparing the calculated individual target parameters and the measured parameters, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the comparison of the calculated individual target parameters and the measured parameters. In this case, controlling is carried out based on the difference between the calculated individual target parameters and the measured parameters

The method of the present invention comprises detecting presence two or more reference devices or reference objects in the building space, the two or more reference devices being provided to two or more reference objects, respectively, providing individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects respectively, upon detecting the two or more reference devices or reference objects in the building space, the individual target parameters being specific to each of the two or more reference objects, respectively, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects, respectively. Accordingly, controlling the controllable devices is based on target parameters of several reference objects present invention building space, or controlling the controllable devices takes into account several reference objects in the building space.

The method may further comprise calculating, by utilizing the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects and instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, combined target parameters for the two or more the reference objects, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the combined target parameters of the two or more reference objects.

Alternatively, the method may comprise comparing the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects, respectively, calculating, by utilizing the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects and instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, combined target parameters for the two or more the reference objects, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the combined target parameters of the two or more reference objects.

Yet alternatively, the method may comprise determining one or more primary reference devices or primary reference objects, the one or more primary reference devices or primary reference objects being provided to one or more primary reference objects, respectively, and being provided with primary control status and primary individual target parameters, calculating, by utilizing only the primary individual target parameters of the one or more reference objects and instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor of the control unit, primary target parameters for the two or more the reference objects, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the primary target parameters of the one or more primary reference objects.

Further alternatively, the method may comprise determining one or more primary reference devices, the one or more primary reference devices being provided to one or more primary reference objects, respectively, and being provided with primary control status and primary individual target parameters, and controlling the at least one controllable device based on the primary target parameters of the one or more primary reference objects.

Different objects or persons or animals may have individual needs or requirements for environmental conditions in the building space. The individual needs or requirements may also vary in time or in different situations. For example, a specific plant may need certain humidity or light intensity, or a person may need certain temperature during sleeping or during physical exercise.

An advantage of the present invention is that controlling the environmental conditions of the building space is based on the individual needs or requirements of several objects, persons or animals. Furthermore, according to the present invention controlling the environmental conditions of the building space is based on the needs or requirements of the several objects, persons or animals present in the building space. Therefore, the environmental conditions of the building space may be automatically adjusted to be suitable for the circumstances at a particular moment or period in time and especially for particular persons, objects or animals present in the building space. Accordingly, the environmental conditions are adjusted such that needs or restrictions of different persons, objects or animals is taken into account. T

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is described in detail by means of specific embodiments with reference to the enclosed drawings, in which

Figure 1 shows schematically one embodiment of a control system for controlling environmental conditions in the building space;

Figure 2 shows schematically another embodiment of a control system for controlling environmental conditions in the building space;

Figure 3 shows schematically a further embodiment of a control system for controlling environmental conditions in the building space;

Figure 4 shows schematically yet another embodiment of a control system for controlling environmental conditions in the building space;

Figure 5 shows schematically one embodiment of a control system according to the present invention;

Figure 6 shows schematically another embodiment of a control system according to the present invention;

Figure 7 shows schematically a further embodiment of a control system according to the present invention;

Figure 8 shows schematically yet another embodiment of a control system according to the present invention; and

Figure 9 shows schematically still another embodiment of a control system according to the present invention;

Figure 10 shows schematically one embodiments of controllable devices;

Figure 11 shows schematically control apparatuses of HVAC -system, and

Figure 12 shows schematically a reference device of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Figure 1 shows schematically one embodiment of a HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system of a building. The building comprises four building spaces 1, which may be rooms, halls, closets, or any known kind of room spaces. One building space 1 may be comprise one or more interconnected rooms which form a single zone in which air, heat and humidity may flow substantially freely or in which environmental conditions are controlled in a uniform manner. The one building space 1 also forms one HVAC -area in which the environmental conditions are controlled in a uniform manner.

The building comprises a HVAC -system comprising one or more controllable devices arranged to adjust the environmental conditions in the building spaces 1. In the embodiment of figure 1, there is a centralized control apparatus 2 comprising one or more controllable devices arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of all the building spaces 1 which are connected to the centralized control 2. The HVCA -system further comprises at least one central supply channel 4 connected to the central centralized control apparatus 2 and extending from the centralized control apparatus 2. The central supply channel 4 is common to two or more building spaces 1, and at least one branch supply channel 6 connected to the central supply channel 4 and extending from the central supply channel 4 to the building space 1. Air is supplied to the building space 1 with an air supply device (not shown), such as fan, blower or pump via the centralized control apparatus 2 and along the central supply channel 4 and the branch supply channel 6. The branch supply channel 6 usually comprises a supply terminal (not shown) for supplying the air to the building space 1 from the branch supply line 6. The branch supply lines 6 may further comprise space specific control apparatus 8 comprising one or more controllable devices arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of a specific building space 1 to which the branch supply channel 6 is connected. The space specific control apparatus 8 is arranged between the central supply line 4 and the building space 1 or the supply terminal of the branch supply line 6. The space specific control apparatus 8 is arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of the specific building space 1 to which the branch supply channel 6 is connected. It should be noted, that in some embodiment the space specific control apparatus 8 may be omitted, and there may be only the centralized control apparatus 2.

The centralized control apparatus 2 and the room specific control apparatus 8 and the controllable devices provided to them are arranged to adjust the properties or values of the air supplied to the building spaces 1. The controllable devices may comprise one or more of the following: a heating device arranged to heat the air supplied to the building space 1, a cooling device arranged to cool air supplied to the building space 1, humidifier arranged to increase humidity of air, dehumidifier arranged to decrease humidity of air and air intake device arranged control intake of fresh air to the HVAC -system for controlling the oxygen (O ² ) and/or carbon dioxide (CO ² ) concentration of air in the building space. It should be noted that there may also be other controllable devices such as filters for filtering the air supplied to the building space 1 or the like devices. Further, the heating and cooling devices may be provided as one device and the humidifier and the dehumidifier may be provided as one device. The air supply device may also be one of the controllable devices arranged to control the air supply rate and flux to the building space(s) 1.

The environmental conditions of the building spaces 1 are controlled with a control system arranged to control the control apparatus (es) 2, 8, and specifically at least one controllable device of the control apparatus(es) 2, 8 for controlling environmental conditions in the building space 1. The control system comprises at least one control unit configured to control operation of the at least one controllable device. In figure 1 it is shown a centralized control system.

The control unit may be any known kind of control unit. Usually, the control unit comprises at least one memory storing information and control instructions and at least one processor arranged to execute the control instructions and calculate control parameters for controlling the controllable devices. Accordingly, the control unit may comprise a computer or a server. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited any particular control unit, but the control unit may be any control unit capable of carrying the control of the controllable devices according to the present invention.

In the embodiment of figure 1, the control system comprises central control unit 10 connected to central control apparatus 2 and the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 with a central control connection 14. Thus, the central control unit 10 is arranged transport control parameters to the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 and to control operation of the controllable devices based on the control parameters. The central control unit 10 is further connected to the space specific control apparatus(es) 8 and the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus(es) 8 with space specific control connection(s) 16. Therefore, the central control unit 10 is arranged transport control parameters to the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus(es) 8 and to control operation of the controllable devices based on the control parameters. Accordingly, in this embodiment the central control unit 10 may be arranged to control both the central control apparatus 2 and the building space specific control apparatuses 8, each possibly individually, separately from each other.

The building spaces 1 are provided with one or more building space sensors 12 arranged to measure one or more physical value of the building space 1. The building space sensors 12 of different building spaces 1 are connected to the central control unit 10 with a building space sensor connection 18 such that physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 are arranged to be transported to the central control unit 10. The measured physical values of the building space 1 are then used for controlling the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 and/or the building space specific control apparatus 8. Accordingly, the central control unit 10 may be arranged to determine or calculate the control parameters of the controllable devices based on the measured physical values of building space 1, and/or the controllable devices may be controlled based on the measured physical properties.

The building space sensor 12 may be arranged to measure for example one or more of the following: temperature in the building space 1, humidity in the building space 1, air pressure in the building space 1, or carbon dioxide concentration in the building space 1. Accordingly, the building space sensor 12 may comprise at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, air pressure sensor, or a light sensor arranged measure light intensity or light spectrum.

It should be noted that the building space sensors 12 may also be omitted or they may be connected to only to the central control unit 10 or only to the building space specific control unit 20.

It should be noted, that all the features described above apply to all the embodiments of the present invention and their description is not repeated.

Figure 2 shows an alternative control system which is a combination centralized and decentralized control system. In this embodiment, the HVAC system corresponds the embodiment of figure 1. However, the control system comprises building space specific control units 20 arranged in association with the building spaces 1. The building space specific control units 20 are arranged to control the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatuses 8. Accordingly, each building space 1 or space specific control apparatus 8 is connected to one building space specific control unit 20 and/or the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 with building space specific control connection 24 such that the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus 8 are controlled independently of the other building spaces 1 and other space specific control apparatuses 8. The central control unit 10 is connected to central control apparatus 2 and the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 with a central control connection 14.

In the embodiment of figure 2, the central control unit 10 is arranged to control only the central control apparatus 2 and/or the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2. Further, the building space specific control unit 20 is arranged to control only the space specific apparatus 8 and/or the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus 8. This enables, adjusting some environmental conditions of the building spaces 1 similarly in all the building spaces or providing similar basic conditions to all building spaces 1. Further, control system enables also adjusting some environmental conditions of the building spaces 1 individually in each building space 1 and independently of the other building spaces 1.

In the embodiment of figure 2, the building space sensors 12 from different building spaces 1 are connected to the central control unit 10 with the building space sensor connection 18 such that physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 are arranged to be transported to the central control unit 10. Furthermore, the building space sensor 12 in a specific building space is connected to the building space specific control unit 20 of the same or corresponding building space 1 with a building space specific sensor connection 22 such that physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 are arranged to be transported to the building space specific control unit 20.

It should be noted that the building space sensors 12 may also be omitted or they may be connected to only to the central control unit 10 or only to the building space specific control unit 20.

The measured physical values of the building space 1 are then used for controlling the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 by utilizing the central control unit 10 and/or the building space specific control apparatus 8 by utilizing the building space specific control unit 20. Accordingly, the central control unit 10 may be arranged to determine or calculate the control parameters of the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 based on the measured physical values of building space 1, and/or the controllable devices of the central control apparatus 2 may be controlled based on the measured physical properties. Similarly, the building space specific control unit 20 may be arranged to determine or calculate the control parameters of the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 based on the measured physical values of building space 1, and/or the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 may be controlled based on the measured physical properties.

Figure 3 shows a decentralized HVAC system, in which every building space 1 is independent from the other building spaces 1. Each building space has a building space specific control apparatus comprising one or more controllable devices arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of the one specific building space 1 to which a branch supply channel 6 is connected. The space specific control apparatus 8 is arranged in connection with the branch supply line 6. The branch supply line 6 is arranged in connection with the specific building space 1 such that air may be supplied to the building space via the building space specific supply line 6, and a possible supply terminal. The space specific control apparatus 8 is arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of the specific building space 1 to which the branch supply channel 6 is connected.

The control system of figure 3 comprises building space specific control unit 20 arranged in association with the building space 1. The building space specific control unit 20 is arranged to control the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatuses 8. Accordingly, each building space 1 or building space specific control apparatus 8 is connected to one building space specific control unit 20 and/or the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 with building space specific control connection 24 such that the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus 8 are controlled independently of the other building spaces 1 and other space specific control apparatuses 8. In this embodiment, each building space 1 is separate, each HVAC system is separate to each building space and each control system is separate to each HVAC system.

In the embodiment of figure 3, the building space sensor 12 the building space 1 is connected to the building space specific control unit 20 of the same or corresponding building space 1 with a building space specific sensor connection 22 such that physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 are arranged to be transported to the building space specific control unit 20.

The measured physical values of the building space 1 are then used for controlling the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 by utilizing the building space specific control unit 20. Accordingly, the building space specific control unit 20 may be arranged to determine or calculate the control parameters of the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 based on the measured physical values of building space 1, and/or the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 may be controlled based on the measured physical properties.

Figure 4 shows still another embodiment in which a decentralized HVAC system, in which every building space 1 is independent from the other building spaces 1. Each building space has a building space specific control apparatus comprising one or more controllable devices arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of the one specific building space 1 to which a branch supply channel 6 is connected. The space specific control apparatus 8 is arranged in connection with the branch supply line 6. The branch supply line 6 is arranged in connection with the specific building space 1 such that air may be supplied to the building space via the building space specific supply line 6, and a possible supply terminal. The space specific control apparatus 8 is arranged to adjust the environmental conditions of the specific building space 1 to which the branch supply channel 6 is connected.

In the embodiment of figure 4, the control system comprises central control unit 10 connected to two or more building space specific control apparatuses 8 and the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatuses 8 with a central control connection 26. Therefore, the central control unit 10 is arranged transport control parameters to the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatuses 8 and to control operation of the controllable devices based on the control parameters.

The control system of figure 4, further comprises building space specific control units 20 arranged in association with the building spaces 1. The building space specific control units 20 are also arranged to control the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatuses 8. Accordingly, each building space 1 or building space specific control apparatus 8 is connected to one building space specific control unit 20 and/or the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 with building space specific control connection 24 such that the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus 8 are controlled independently of the other building spaces 1 and other space specific control apparatuses 8.

In the embodiment of figure 4, the central control unit 10 and the building space specific control unit 20 are both arranged to control the building space specific apparatus 8 and/or the controllable devices of the space specific control apparatus 8. This enables, adjusting some environmental conditions of the building spaces 1 similarly in all the building spaces or providing similar basic conditions to all building spaces 1. Further, control system enables also adjusting some environmental conditions of the building spaces 1 individually in each building space 1 and independently of the other building spaces 1. Accordingly, some controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 may be arranged to be controlled with the central control unit 10 and other with the building space specific control unit 20, or alternative all the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatus 8 may be arranged to be controlled by both the central control unit 10 and the building space specific control unit 20.

In the embodiment of figure 4, the building space sensors 12 from different building spaces 1 are connected to the central control unit 10 with the building space sensor connection 18 such that physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 are arranged to be transported to the central control unit 10. Furthermore, the building space sensor 12 in a specific building space is connected to the building space specific control unit 20 of the same or corresponding building space 1 with the building space specific sensor connection 22 such that physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 are arranged to be transported to the building space specific control unit 20.

It should be noted that the building space sensors 12 may also be omitted or they may be connected to only to the central control unit 10 or only to the building space specific control unit 20.

Furthermore, it should be noted that the building space specific control units 20 may be an integral part of the central control unit 10 or the central control unit 10 may be arranged to function as the building space specific control units 20. In this case, the building space specific control units 20 are not separate structural elements, and all the control parameters are provided the controllable devices of the building space specific control apparatuses 8 with the central control connection 26. Further, the physical values measured in the building space 1 with the building space sensor 12 may be arranged to be transported to the central control unit 10 with the building space sensor connection 18.

In the following the control system and control method according to the present invention will be described in detail. The control system and method may be based on any of the above described control systems or methods arranged to control controllable devices for controlling the environmental conditions of the building space 1.

Figures 5 to 9 show different embodiments of the present invention in which the control system. The control system arranged to control at least one controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 associated with a building space 1 for controlling environmental conditions in the building space 1 further comprising a reference device 72, 76, 80 provided to a reference object 70, 74, 78. The reference device 72, 76, 80 is configured to provide target parameter data specific to the reference object 70, 74, 78. The control system also comprises an occupancy module 60 arranged to detect presence of the reference objects 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1, and a communication module 91 configured to transmit the target parameter data of the reference object 70, 74, 78 to the central control unit 10 as a response to detecting the presence of the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1.

The reference object may be any physical object, such as an article 74, a person 70, animal or plant 78 in the building space at specific moment in time. The article may be a specific reference article, such a wooden piece, or normal utility article such as book or furniture. Accordingly, the reference object may be any kind of reference object. This applies to all embodiment of the present invention.

The reference device 72, 76, 80 is provided to the reference object 70, 74, 78, or connected or attached to the reference object 70, 74, 78. Accordingly, the reference device 72, 76, 80 always moves together with the reference object 70, 74, 78 such that the location of the reference object 70, 74, 78 may be determined based on the location of the reference device 72, 76, 80. Accordingly, the occupancy module 60 may be arranged to detect presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1 or the location of the reference device 72, 76, 80 such that the presence of the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1 may be detected. This applies to all embodiments of the invention.

The reference device 72, 76, 80 may comprise a reference identification device configured store and transmit, by utilizing the communication module 91, reference object identifier specific to the reference object to which it is provided. The reference object identifier represents the target parameter data transmitted to the control unit. Thus, the reference device may be for example RFID -tag, Bluetooth -tag, or some other identification tag, smart tag or any other known reference identification device. The reference device 72, 76, 80 may also comprise a reference device memory configured to store the reference object identifier as the target parameter data. In this embodiment, the control unit may be configured to match the reference object identifier to stored target parameters corresponding the reference object identifier, for example by utilizing instructions stored to a control unit memory and executed by control unit processor. The stored target parameters corresponding the reference object identifier may be stored to the control unit memory or to an external target parameter database from which the control unit receives the target parameters corresponding the reference object identifier upon receiving and matching the reference object identifier. Then, the control unit 10, 20 is configured to control the controllable devices of the control apparatuses 2, 8 based on or utilizing the reference object identifier and the pre target parameters corresponding the reference object identifier. The control unit 10, 20 may also comprise the control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the reference object identifier, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device 2, 8 based on the target parameters.

The identification tag of the reference device 72, 76, 80 may also be used for detecting the presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space

1.

In an alternative embodiment, the reference device may be a virtual reference device arranged to identify the reference object(s) in the building space. In this embodiment, the virtual reference device may comprise camera or the like utilizing image recognition or a microphone or the like utilizing voice recognition to both detect the presence of the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1 and to identify the reference object(s) in the building space 1. In this embodiment, the control unit may be configured to match the reference object detected and identified with the virtual reference device to stored target parameters corresponding the reference object, for example by utilizing instructions stored to a control unit memory and executed by control unit processor. The stored target parameters corresponding the reference object may be stored to the control unit memory or to an external target parameter database from which the control unit receives the target parameters corresponding the reference object identifier upon receiving and matching the reference object identifier. Then, the control unit 10, 20 is configured to control the controllable devices of the control apparatuses 2, 8 based on or utilizing the identification of the reference object and the pre- target parameters corresponding the reference object. The control unit 10, 20 may also comprise the control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the reference object identifier, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device 2, 8 based on the target parameters.

The control unit 10, 20 may comprise the control unit memory 102 and the control unit processor 104, as shown in figure 11.

Alternatively, the reference device memory of the reference device or the virtual reference device may be configured to store the pre-determined target parameters or a pre-determined target parameter function as the target parameter data. In this case, the pre-determined target parameters or the pre-determined target parameter function is transmitted to the control unit 10, 20, by utilizing the communication module 91, and the control unit 10, 20 is configured to control the controllable devices of the control apparatuses 2, 8 based on or utilizing the reference object identifier, the pre-determined target parameters or the pre determined target parameter function. According, in this embodiment the target parameters or the target parameter function are pre-determined and stored to the reference device 72, 76, 80 or the virtual reference device. The pre-determined target parameter or the pre-determined target parameter function is transmitted to the control unit 10, 20 with the communication module 91 and the control unit 10, 20 may be configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 based on the pre-determined target parameters. Accordingly, in this case the target parameters are received as such from the reference device 72, 76, 80, or from the virtual reference device, and the controllable devices are adjusted based on the pre-determined control parameters. Alternatively, the control unit 10, 20 may comprise the control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the pre-determined target parameter function, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 based on the calculated target parameters.

In another embodiment, the reference device 72, 76, 80, or the virtual reference device, may also comprise the reference device memory configured to store a pre-determined target parameter function, and a reference device processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the target parameter function, the calculated target parameters representing the target parameter data. The target parameter function may be for example a function of target parameters over time, over a day the like. The reference device 72, 76, 80, or the virtual reference device, may also comprise the reference device memory configured to store a pre-determined target parameter function, and a reference device processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the target parameter function and at least one variable input parameter, the calculate target parameters representing the target parameter data. The input parameter may be for example some measured input parameter, as will be explained below. In this case, the target parameters are first calculated in the reference device 72, 76, 80, or the virtual reference device, based on the pre-determined target parameter function and then the calculated target parameters are transmitted to the control unit 10, 20 with the communication module 91. The control unit 10, 20 is configured to control the controllable devices of the control apparatuses 2, 8 based on or by utilizing target parameters received from the reference device 72, 76, 80, or the virtual reference device.

In the above cases the reference device 72, 76, 80 may be any kind of device comprising memory, or memory and a processor and a data transfer connection, such a wifi -connection, Bluetooth -connection, NFC -connection, mobile phone network connection or any other wireless or network or communication connection. The reference device may also be mobile phone, smart watch wearable electronic device or any other kind of personal device such as heart rate monitor or activity sensor carried by a person or animal. The virtual reference device may further comprise the above mentioned components and components and connections.

The reference device 72, 76, 80 may comprise the reference device memory 106 and the reference device processor 108, as shown in figure 12.

The reference device 72, 76, 80 may comprise one or more reference object sensors arranged to measure at least one reference object physical value for providing the target parameter data. The reference device 72, 76, 80 may be configured to calculate the target parameters based on the measured reference object physical values, for example by utilizing the target parameter function, or transmit the reference object physical values to the control unit 10, 20 such that the control unit 10, 20 may calculate the target parameters based on the reference object physical values.

Alternatively, the control system may comprise one or more separate reference object sensors 72, 76, 80 provided to the reference object 70, 74, 78 or in connection with the reference object 70, 74, 78. The separate reference object sensors may be arranged to measure at least one reference object physical value for providing the target parameter data. The reference device 72, 76, 80 may be configured to calculate the target parameters based on the measured reference object physical values, for example by utilizing the target parameter function, or transmit the reference object physical values to the control unit 10, 20 such that the control unit 10, 20 may calculate the target parameters based on the reference object physical values. The separate reference object sensors may be connected to the reference device or the control unit via any known a communication network, communication connection or data transfer connection.

The reference object sensor may a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature of the reference object 70, 74, 78, a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity of the reference object 70, 74, 78, a motion sensor configured to measure motion of the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1 or a body sensor configured to measure one or more body value of a human or animal body 70. The human or animal body may then be the reference object 70, 74, 78. Accordingly, the environmental conditions of the building space 1 and the controllable devices may be controlled based on the measured physical values of the reference object 70, 74, 78. Accordingly, the environmental conditions of the building space may be controlled based on humidity of a plant in the building space, or heart rate, temperature or activity level of a person in the building space.

The control unit 10, 20 may be configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 based on comparison of the pre-determined target parameters and the measured parameters measured with the building space sensor 12. Further, the control unit 10, 20 may comprise the control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the pre-determined target parameter function, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 based on comparison of the target parameters and the measured parameters measured with the building space sensor 12. In an alternative embodiment, the control unit 10, 20 may comprise the control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the pre determined target parameter function and at least one variable input parameter, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 based on comparison of the target parameters and the measured parameters.

The occupancy module 60, 86 may comprises any known kind a positioning system, location system or indoor positioning system configured to provide location identification of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. Further, the virtual reference device may form the occupation module or at least part of the occupation module for detecting the presence the reference object in the building space 1.

Figure 5 shows one embodiment of the present invention, in which the occupation module may comprise for example a Bluetooth beacon 60 configured to provide location identification of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the in the building space 1. Bluetooth beacon 60 may be hardware transmitter provided to the building space 1 and configured to broadcast building space identifier specific to the building space 1 to the reference devices 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. The reference devices 72, 76, 80 may be configured to provide the target parameters to the central control unit 10 with the communication module 90 upon receiving the building space identifier from the Bluetooth beacon 60 in the building space 1. The communication module 90 may be for example local area network enabling wireless or non-wireless communication. The HVAC -system of figure 5 corresponds the HVAC -system of figure 1. In this embodiment, the reference devices 72, 76, 80 may send the reference object identifier, the pre-determined target parameters, the pre-determined target parameter function or the measured physical value of the reference object 70, 64, 78 directly to the central control unit 10.

Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment in which the HVAC -system corresponds the HVAC -system of figure 2. In this embodiment, the control system comprises the occupancy module 61 provided to the building space 1 and arranged to detect presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. The occupancy module 61 is connected directly to the central control unit 10 with central communication connection 30 forming part of the communication module. The occupation module 61 may be for example an indoor positioning system element or local area network element provided to the building space 1 and configured to detect and identify the reference devices 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. In this embodiment, the reference devices 72, 76, 80 may send the reference object identifier, the pre-determined target parameters, the pre determined target parameter function or the measured physical value of the reference object 70, 64, 78 to the occupation module element 61 in the building space 1 or directly to the central control unit 10.

The embodiment of figure 6 further comprises target parameter database 32 for storing the target parameters of different reference objects 70, 74, 78. Accordingly, when the central control unit 10 receives the reference object identifier from the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1, the central control unit 10 may match the reference object identifier to target parameters corresponding the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the target parameter database 32 for controlling the controllable devices. The database 32 may be connected to the control unit 10, 20 with a database communication connection 31, as shown in figure 11.

Figure 7 shows an alternative embodiment in which the HVAC -system corresponds the HVAC -system of figure 3. In this embodiment, the control system comprises the occupancy module 61 provided to the building space 1 and arranged to detect presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. The occupancy module 61 is connected directly to the building space specific control unit 20 with central communication connection 30 forming part of the communication module. The occupation module 61 may be for example an indoor positioning system element or local area network element provided to the building space 1 and configured to detect and identify the reference devices 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. In this embodiment, the reference devices 72, 76, 80 may send the reference object identifier, the pre-determined target parameters, the pre determined target parameter function or the measured physical value of the reference object 70, 64, 78 to the occupation module element 61 in the building space 1 or directly to the building space specific control unit 20 with the communication module. In the embodiment of figure 7, the building space sensor 12 is provided in connection or as integral part of the occupation module 61. Further, as shown in figure 7, the reference devices 72, 76, 80 may be connected to the occupation module 61 or the communication module wirelessly or with wired connection 75. It should be noted that the communication module and the occupation module may be integrated into one apparatus or device.

Figure 8 shows an alternative embodiment in which the HVAC -system corresponds the HVAC -system of figure 4. In this embodiment, the control system comprises the occupancy module 60 provided to the building space 1 and arranged to detect presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. The occupancy module 60 is connected directly to the central control unit 10 with central communication connection 30 and to the building space specific control unit 20 with the wireless connection 90, the central communication connection 30 and wireless connection 90 forming part of the communication module. The occupation module 60 may be for example an indoor positioning system element or local area network element provided to the building space 1 and configured to detect and identify the reference devices 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1. In this embodiment, the reference devices 72, 76, 80 may send the reference object identifier, the pre-determined target parameters, the pre-determined target parameter function or the measured physical value of the reference object 70, 64, 78 to the occupation module element 61 in the building space 1 and further to at least one of the control units 10, 20 or directly to at least one of the control units 10, 20 with the communication module.

In one embodiment, the occupancy module 61 may also comprise a camera or a microphone for detecting presence of a reference object in the building space by utilizing image recognition or voice recognition.

As shown in figure 8, the building space 1 further comprises illumination device or lightning device 82 arranged to provide light to the building space 1. The illumination device 82 may be a lamp of the like. The control system may be arranged to control and adjust the light intensity or light spectrum provided by the illumination device 82 based on the target parameters provided by the reference device 72, 76, 80. Alternatively, the building space 1 may comprise one or more windows or other light openings through which light may pass into the building space 1. The one or more windows or light openings may be provided with light shade for adjusting light intensity or light spectrum passing into the building space through the window or the light opening. The light shade may comprise adjustable window shade(s), curtain(s), marquis, dimmer, sun shade or any other equipment or element allowing adjusting the light passing through the window or light opening. The control system may be arranged to control and adjust the light intensity or light spectrum passing through window or light opening based on the target parameters provided by the reference device 72, 76, 80. Thus, the building space sensor 12 may also comprise a light sensor for measuring the light intensity or light spectrum in the building space 1 such that the control system may be arranged to control and adjust the light intensity or light spectrum provided by the illumination device 82 or the window or light opening based on the target parameters provided by the reference device 72, 76, 80 and the measured light intensity or light spectrum. The illumination device 82 is connected with an illumination control connection 82 to the central control unit 10, but it may also or alternatively be connected to the building space specific control unit 20.

In one embodiment of the invention, the control system may comprise an occupancy registration interface provided in connection with the building space 1 and configured to provide location registration on request by a user. The occupancy registration interface may be provided as separate registration device (not shown) or to the building space sensor 12. Alternative, the occupancy registration interface may be provided to the reference device 72, 76, 80, such as mobile phone or smart watch, such that the user may manually register the presence in the building space 1 when the occupation module detects the presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1.

Figure 9 shows an alternative embodiment, in which the reference devices 72, 76, 80 and the control units 10, 20 are all connected to a wireless communication network 86. The wireless communication network 86 form the communication module enabling wireless communication 90 between the devices.

The occupation module 60 and the controllable devices 82 in the building space 1 and the controllable device of the control apparatus 2, 8 of the HVAC -system may also be connected to the wires network 86. Furthermore, the building space sensor 12 may also be connected to the same wireless network 86.

It should be noted that the present invention is not restricted to any particular communication system, method or configuration and the communication module may be provided in any known manner between the reference devices, control units, building space sensors and the occupation modules.

Figure 10 shows one embodiment of the control apparatus 2, 8. The building space specific control apparatus 8 may comprise one or more controllable devices, such a heater 94 and humidifier 95. The central control apparatus 2 may also comprise one or more controllable devices, such a heater 94 and humidifier 95, a filter 96, or ventilation device 97.

The control unit may comprise a control unit processor configured to calculate the target parameters by utilizing the reference object identifier, and configured to control the operation of the at least one controllable device based on the target parameters. The control unit processor may be configured to utilize specific pre-determined target parameters representing the specific reference object identifier.

According to the above mentioned, the present invention provides a method for controlling at least one controllable device associated with a building space 1 for controlling environmental conditions in the building space 1. The method comprises detecting presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1 with the occupation module for detecting the presence of the reference object 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1. The reference device 72, 76, 80 provides target parameters of the reference object 70, 74, 78 upon detecting the reference device 70, 74, 78 in the building space 1. The target parameters are specific to the reference object 70, 74, 78. Then the target parameters are utilized and operation of the at least one controllable device 2, 8, 82 is controlled based on the target parameters.

Accordingly, the target parameters may be provided to the control unit 10, 20 for controlling the controllable devices based target parameters. The method may also comprise automatically detecting the presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1 with the occupancy module 60, 61, 86, or detecting the presence of the reference device 72, 76, 80 in the building space 1 upon occupancy registration request of a user 70 in the building space 1.

In the present invention, the controllable devices and the environmental conditions of the building space 1 are controlled or adjusted based on the specific preferences of the reference object(s) 70, 75, 78 in the building space. The control may thus be based on the preferences and target parameters of one reference object present in the building space 1 or on the preferences and individual target parameters of several reference objects present in the building space 1 at the same time. In the latter case, different several reference objects may have different effect or weight, or weight coefficient to overall or summarized control target control parameters or the summarized or overall target control parameters may be an average of the target parameters of the several reference objects.

According to the present invention the method comprises detecting presence of two or more reference devices 72, 76, 80 or reference objects 70, 74, 80 in the building space, as disclosed above. The method further comprises providing individual target parameters of each of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78 detected in the building space 1. Each of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78 has the individual target parameters specific to the reference object 70, 74, 78. The individual target parameters of the two or more reference devices may be provided in manner as disclosed above. Then, the at least one controllable device 2, 8 is based on the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78 detected in the building space 1.

Accordingly, in the present invention the control unit adjusts the controllable device based on the individual target parameters of two or more reference objects taking into account the different individual target parameters of each of the two or more reference objects. Thus, the environmental conditions are not adjusted based on number of reference objects or based on only one reference objects, but based on two or more reference objects present invention building space 1.

Adjusting the controllable device with the control unit may comprise calculating, by utilizing the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78 and the control unit 10, 20, combined target parameters for the two or more the reference objects 70, 74, 78 detected in the building space. Then the method comprises controlling the at least one controllable device 2, 8 based on the combined target parameters of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78.

Calculating the combined target parameters may comprise calculating average, weighted average or summarized target parameters. There are number of different calculating methods for providing the combined target parameters. It should be noted that the combined target parameters or the calculation thereof may be based on pre-determined individual target parameters or measured individual target parameters or calculated individual target parameters of each of the two or more reference objects.

Alternatively, adjusting the controllable device with the control unit may comprise comparing the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78, respectively, calculating, by utilizing the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78 and the control unit 10, 20, combined target parameters for the two or more the reference objects 70, 74, 78. Then the method comprises controlling the at least one controllable device 2, 8 based on the combined target parameters of the two or more reference objects 70, 74, 78.

Accordingly, in the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects detected in the building space may be first compared to each other for determining difference between the individual target parameters of the two or more reference objects. This information may be further utilized for calculating the combined target parameters.

Further, the method may in some embodiment also comprise determining one or more primary reference devices 72, 76, 80. The one or more primary reference devices 72, 76, 80 are provided to one or more primary reference objects 70, 74, 78, respectively. The primary reference objects 70, 74, 78 or the primary reference devices 72, 76, 80 are provided with primary control status and primary individual target parameters. The method then comprises calculating, by utilizing only the primary individual target parameters of the one or more primary reference objects 70, 74, 78 and the control unit 10, 20, primary target parameters for the two or more the primary reference objects 70, 74, 78, and controlling the at least one controllable device 2, 8 based on the primary target parameters of the one or more primary reference objects 70, 74, 78. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the reference devices or reference objects and individual target parameters thereof without primary control status and primary individual target parameters are omitted or neglected in controlling the adjustable device or in calculating the combined target parameters. The reference devices or reference objects thereof without primary control status are secondary reference devices or reference objects.

Further, in one embodiment the method may comprise determining one or more primary reference devices 72, 76, 80. The one or more primary reference devices 72, 76, 80 are provided to one or more primary reference objects 70, 74, 78, respectively, and provided with primary control status and primary individual target parameters. Thus, the controlling the at least one controllable device 2, 8 is based on the primary target parameters of the one or more primary reference objects 70, 74, 78

The invention has been described above with reference to the examples shown in the figures. However, the invention is in no way restricted to the above examples but may vary within the scope of the claims.