MOTORIZED SHADES OVER COAXIAL CABLE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

This invention relates to motorized shades. More specifically, and without limitation, this invention relates to a system and method of powering and controlling motorized shades over coaxial cable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

Since the advent of electricity, electric motors have been employed to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. Electric motors have been used in applications as diverse as industrial fans, blowers, pumps, automotive windows, power tools, and disk drives, to name a few. Electric motors require both electricity, to power the motor, as well as a control mechanism to control the flow of power and/or the direction and speed of the motor. This control mechanism is often referred to as a motor controller.

A motor controller is a device or group of devices that serves to govern in some predetermined manner the performance of an electric motor. Operations a motor controller perform include manual or automatic starting and stopping of the motor, selecting forward or reverse rotation, selecting and regulating the speed of the motor, regulating or limiting the torque, protecting against overloads and faults, and the like.

Conventionally, electric motors require one set of wiring to provide power to the electric motor and one set of wiring to provide control signals to the motor. These multiple- wire systems are often referred to as multi-channel cable, multi-conductor cable, fiber-optic cable, or simply control cable systems (hereinafter multiple wire system). The use of a multiple-wire system carries with it a plurality of disadvantages. One substantial

disadvantage is that multiple-wire systems increase the cost and expense of controlling a motor due to the increased cost of multiple-wire systems over a single wire system or coaxial cable. In addition, the use of a multiple-wire system increases the complexity of the system. Due to the presence of a plurality of wires, this arrangement carries with it the risk that one of the many wires could be connected wrong which will likely lead to inoperability of the system, and could further lead to damage or destruction of the system. In addition, there are countless styles and designs of multiple-wire systems, which tend to lead to less familiarity and experience with any one multiple-wire system. In addition, as the number of wires increase, so does the potential for any one of those individual wires to be corrupt, damaged or otherwise cause problems for the system.

Thus it is a primary object of the invention to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that addresses these problems.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that reduces expense and cost when compared to the state of the art.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is less complex than the state of the art.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that reduces or eliminates the possibility of connecting wires in an incorrect manner.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that uses components that are standardized and well known.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is more robust than the state of the art.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that has greater durability and less potential for corruption than the state of the art.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is more aesthetically pleasing than the state of the art.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

A system and method of controlling a plurality of motorized devices using only a single cable. The system includes a gateway having a microprocessor, memory and a transceiver. A plurality of motorized devices, such as a motorized window shade or blind, are electronically connected to the gateway by a single cable, such as a coaxial cable. Each motorized device includes a microprocessor, memory and a transceiver. The gateway simultaneously transmits power and control signals over the cable which are received and responded to by the microprocessor and transceiver of each motorized device. The gateway communicates using one frequency wherein each motorized device uses a different frequency for communication. This system provides the advantage of powering and controlling a plurality of motorized devices using only a single cable which reduces cost, improves robustness and improves aesthetic appearance over the prior art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

Fig. 1 is a plan view of the system;

Fig. 2 is a plan view of the structure of a gateway of the system;

Fig. 3 is a plan view of a control module of the system;

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a coaxial cable;

Fig. 5 is a plan view depicting the arrangement wherein the gateway command signal at 433.00 MHZ is combined with power, of 9 to 40 volts and transmitted over a single wire; and.

Fig. 6 is a plan view depicting the arrangement wherein the gateway command signal at 433.00 MHZ is combined with power, of 9 to 40 volts and transmitted over a single wire simultaneously with return signals from the first window shade at 433.01 MHz, the second window shade at 433.02 MHz, and the third window shade at 433.03 MHz.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventions. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end and sides are referenced according to the views presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination of objects may change without departing from the scope of the invention.

As used herein, the invention is shown and described as being used in association with a plurality of power window blinds or shades which include electric motors. However the invention is not so limiting and this depiction and description is used only as an example. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the invention shown and described herein is equally applicable to any and all systems utilizing one or a plurality of electric motors.

With reference to the Figures, a system 10 for powering and controlling a plurality of motorized window shades or blinds is presented. The system 10 includes a wireless access point 12 which is electronically connected to a router 14. Wireless access point 12 is any device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network using Wi-Fi, or any other form of over the air electronic communication. Router 14 is any device that forwards data packets between computers and/or computer networks. A router is connected to two or more data lines from different computers and/or networks. When a data packet comes in one of the lines, the router reads the address information contained in the data packet to determine its ultimate destination. Then, using information in its routing table or routing policy, it directs the data packet to the next computer and/or network on its journey. A router performs the "traffic directing" functions between computers on a network. In one arrangement, wireless access point 12 and router 14 are separated stand-alone devices. In another arrangement, wireless access point 12 and router 14 are combined into a single unit. Hereinafter unless specifically stated otherwise, for purposes of convenience these devices shall be considered a single unit and therefor reference to both wireless access point 12 and router 14

A wireless device 16 is electronically connected to wireless access point 12. Wireless device 16 is any electronic device which sends and/or receives signals using Wi-Fi, or any other form of over the air electronic communication. In one arrangement, as is depicted, wireless device 16 includes a smart phone 16A and a wirelessly enabled computer laptop or tablet 16B or the like, however any other wireless device is hereby contemplated such as a remote, a wireless switch, or the like. Wireless device 16 sends and/or receives information and control signals to wireless access point 12. Any number of wireless devices 16 are hereby contemplated for simultaneous use with the system 10.

A wired device 18 is electronically connected to router 14. Wired device 18 is any electronic device which sends and/or receives signals through wired communication. In one arrangement, a desktop computer, or laptop computer is connected to router 14 via a cable, such as an Ethernet cable or Ethernet physical layer, however any other form of connection is hereby contemplated. Wired device 18 sends and/or receives information and control signals to wireless access point 12. Any number of wired devices 18 are hereby contemplated.

Gateway 20 is electronically connected to wireless access point 12 and/or router 14 via cable 22. In one arrangement, cable 18 is a conventional Ethernet cable, or Ethernet physical layer, however any other form of connection is hereby contemplated. Gateway 20 is electronically connected to power source 24. Power source 24 is any form electric power. In one arrangement, power source 24 is a conventional AC wall outlet, however any other form of electric power is hereby contemplated such as a battery system, a generator or the like.

Gateway 20 is connected to router 14 at input 26. Gateway 20 receives control signals from wireless device 16 or wired device 18 through input 26. Gateway 20 includes a transceiver 28 and a microprocessor 30. Transceiver 28, is any device which transmits and receives an electronic signal. In one arrangement, the sending and receiving functions of transceiver 28 are performed on common circuitry, whereas in an alternative arrangement, the sending and receiving circuitry is separate. Microprocessor 30 is any programmable device that accepts analog digital signals or data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory 32, and provides results as output. Microprocessor 30 receives signals from transceiver 28, and/or router 14 and processes them according to its instructions stored in its memory 32 and then sends signals to transceiver 28 instructing transceiver 28 to transmit control signals to other components of system 10 through output 34. In one arrangement, microprocessor 30 and transceiver 28 communicate with one another using digital signals, such as I s and 0s, whereby transceiver 28 communicates with other components of this system 10 using electromagnetic signals or electromagnetic waves. In one arrangement, the electromagnetic wave or electromagnetic signal is in the range of 433 MHz radio wave, also known as radio frequency waves ( F). In another arrangement, any other electromagnetic wave and/or frequency is used. Hereinafter, this electromagnetic wave or electromagnetic signal will simply be referred to as an "electromagnetic signal", however, this term is not meant to be limiting in any way. This signal is either digital or analog and can be of any wave length, these include AM and FM signals or any other signal or wave in the electromagnetic spectrum. Gateway 20 is connected via coaxial cable 36 at output 34 through which gateway 20 is connected to the other components of the system 10. Coaxial cable 36 is a conventional and well known type of cable. Coaxial cable 36 includes an external insulator layer 38 which is formed of any conventional insulating material such as plastic, rubber, composite, or the like. A metallic shield 40 is positioned below or inside the external insulator layer 38.

Metallic shield 40 is any conducting and shielding material, such as copper or aluminum or the like, that in one arrangement, is a woven mesh conducting material which serves both as a ground, or return, as well as a shield or block for electromagnetic interference. An internal insulator 42 is positioned below or inside metallic shield 40. Internal insulator 42 is formed of any conventional insulating material such as plastic, rubber, composite, or the like. Internal insulator 42 serves to insulate metallic shield 40 from center conductor 44. Center conductor 44 is any conducting material, in one arrangement it is a monolithic or woven conducting material such as copper or aluminum or the like.

One advantage of coaxial cable over other types of cable, wire or radio transmission line is that in an ideal coaxial cable the electromagnetic field carrying the signal exists only in the space between the inner conductor 44 and outer conductor 40. This allows coaxial cable runs to be installed next to metal objects without suffering the power losses that occur in other types of transmission lines. Coaxial cable also provides protection of the signal from external electromagnetic interference. Another advantage of coaxial cable is that the impedance of coaxial cable is generally known. In other cabling or wiring, impedance is general a function of length, whereas coaxial cable reduces or eliminates the effect of length on impedance. Common impedances for coaxial cable include 50 ohms, 52 ohms and 75 ohms. Coaxial cable provides these advantages while utilizing only a single strand of cable. In addition, the connecting of coaxial cable are robust, easy to use and many people have substantial familiarity with this type of cable.

In one arrangement, transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 send and receive signals over center conductor 44 of coaxial cable 36, while using metallic shield 40 as a ground or return. In an alternative arrangement, transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 send and receive signals over metallic shield of coaxial cable 36, while using center conductor 44 as a ground. In yet another alternative arrangement, transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 send and receive signals over both center conductor 44 and metallic shield 40 while using the other as the ground. While coaxial cable is herein described, any other form of cable having at least two conductors is hereby contemplated, such as any dual wire system or the like.

Gateway 20 also includes a power converter 46 which is electronically connected to power source 24. Power converter 46 is any form of a device that converts one form of power to another, such as AC to DC, or vice versa. Gateway 20 also includes a power control system 48 which is electronically connected to power converter 46. Power control system 48 takes power from power converter 46 and adjusts or regulates to the proper form or amount needed by the downstream components of system 10. Power control system 48 also distributes power to the components of gateway 20 as is described herein to power said devices. In one arrangement, power control system 48 and power converter 46 are a single device. In another arrangement, power control system 48 and power converter 46 are separate devices. In one arrangement, power control system 48 and power converter 46 transmit power in the range of ~9 volts to -40 volts however any other range is hereby contemplated for use.

Power converter 46 and power control system 48 transmit power through output 34 over the same conductor as transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30. In this way the power and the control signal are laid over one another. To prevent interference and damage to the other components of the system, gateway 20 has a DC block 50 positioned between output 34 and transceiver 28/microprocessor 30. DC block 50 essentially blocks a predetermined amount of, most of, or all of the power (or voltage) sent by power converter 46 and/or power control system 48 from entering transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30; while being essentially invisible to the electromagnetic signals generated by transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 which freely pass through DC block 50. Similarly, to prevent interference and damage to the other components of the system, gateway 20 has an RF block 52 positioned between output 34 and power control system 48 and/or power converter 46. RF block 52 essentially blocks a predetermined amount of, most of, or all of the electromagnetic signals sent by transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 from entering power control system 48 and/or power converter 46; while being essentially invisible to the power (or voltage) generated by power control system 48 and/or power converter 46. which freely passes there through. One common form of RF block is an inductor, while any other form of RF blocking is herein contemplated for use. One common form of DC block is a capacitor, however any other form of DC block is hereby contemplated for use. Coaxial cable 36 extends from output 34 of gateway 20 and connects to one or a plurality of motorized window shades 54. More specifically, coaxial cable 36 connects to a first window shade 56. A second coaxial cable 58 connects first window shade 56 to a second window shade 60. A third coaxial cable 62 connects second window shade 60 to a third window shade 64. and so on. This arrangement is known as a series circuit. One, two, three, four, five or more series circuits can be connected to gateway 20.

A splitter 66 is connected at or to each window shade 54. Splitter 66 serves as a connection point for the incoming and outgoing coaxial cable 36. Splitter 66 splits the signal into two components. A first component which is fed into the first window shade 56, and a second component which is passed on to later window shades (60,64) in the system. Each splitter 66 splits the signal in approximately half, which reduces the strength of the signal and/or power (or voltage). In one arrangement, as each shade requires approximately 200 milliamps (MA), in this system is limited to approximately 30 window shades before a booster is required. With the use of appropriate boosters this system can accommodate up to hundreds or thousands of window shades 54.

A control module 68 is connected to each window shade 54. Control module 68 receives the power (or voltage) and control signals (electromagnetic signals) from gateway 20, interprets them and controls the operation of the window shade 54. In one arrangement, control module 68 is connected to coaxial cable 36 at an input 70 through which the control signal (electromagnetic signal) and power (or voltage) is transmitted.

A diverter 72 is connected adjacent input 70 and diverts the input into a first channel 74 and a second channel 75. First channel 74 is electronically connected to an RF block 76, which is similar to or identical to the RF block 52 previously described and used in association with gateway 20. Like RF block 52, RF block 76 essentially blocks a

predetermined amount of, most of. or all of the electromagnetic signals (or RF) sent by transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 from passing there through, while being essentially invisible to power (or voltage) which freely passes there through. RF Block 76 is

electronically connected to a power control system 78. Like power control system 48, power control system 78 receives the incoming power (or voltage) and adjusts or regulates it to the proper form or amount needed and distributes it to the other components within control module 68, such as a motor 88. transceiver 82, microprocessor 30, as is described herein. Second channel 75 is electronically connected to a DC block 76, which is similar to or identical to the DC block 50 previously described and used in association with gateway 20. Like DC block 50, DC block 80 essentially blocks a predetermined amount of, most of, or all of the electromagnetic waves (or RF) sent by transceiver 28 and microprocessor 30 of Gateway 20 from passing there through, while being essentially invisible to power (or voltage) which freely passes there through.

DC block 80 is electronically connected to a transceiver 82 and a microprocessor 84. Transceiver 82 is similar if not identical to transceiver 28, and is any device which transmits and receives an electronic signal. In one arrangement, the sending and receiving functions of transceiver 28 are performed on common circuitry, whereas in an alternative arrangement, the sending and receiving circuitry is separate. Microprocessor 84 is similar if not identical to microprocessor 30, and is any programmable device that accepts digital signals or data as input, processes it according to instructions stored in its memory 86, and provides results as output. Microprocessor 84 receives signals from transceiver 82, processes them according to its instructions stored in its memory 86 and then sends signals to transceiver 82 instructing transceiver 82 to transmit electromagnetic signals to other components of system 10 through coaxial cable 36.

Motor 88 is also part of control module 68. Motor 88 is electronically connected to power control system 78 and transceiver 82 and microprocessor 84. Motor 88 is any form of a motor, which, when actuated, converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. In the example provided, motor 88 opens and closes window shade 54.

Assembly: System 10 is assembled in the following manner: Wireless access point 12 is connected to router 14 which is connected to an external network 90 such as the Internet or Cloud. At least one wireless device 16, such as a smart phone 16A or wireless computer 16B is wirelessly connected to access point 12 when the two components are within over-the-air communication distance to one another such that the two devices communicate and exchange information with one another (this is often described as being on the "home network ^* ').

Alternatively, a wired device 18, such as a desktop computer is connected to router 14 (which is also known as being on the "home network ^" ). Router 14 is connected via Ethernet cable 22 or other wiring to gateway 20, which is also connected to power source 24. Coaxial cable 36 is connected at one end to gateway 20 and at its opposite end to first window shade 56. More specifically, coaxial cable 36 is connected to the splitter 66 of the first window shade 56. Splitter 66 splits the incoming signal into two components. As such, splitter 66 is connected to the control module 68 of first window shade 56, as well as to second coaxial cable 58 and so on.

Second coaxial cable 58, is connected at one end to the splitter 66 of the first window shade 56, and at its opposite end to second window shade 60. More specifically, second coaxial cable 8 is connected to the splitter 66 of the second window shade 60. Splitter 66 splits the incoming signal into two components. As such, splitter 66 is connected to the control module 68 of second window shade 60, as well as to third coaxial cable 62, and so on. Up to approximately thirty window shades can be assembled in this manner. After each thirty window shades, the signal has been split so many times that it must be boosted due to diminished signal strength. An additional thirty window shades can be added to the system after each booster. This arrangement can essentially be repeated indefinitely.

In Operation: Once the system has been assembled, and all components have been connected, gateway 20 acts as the master, whereas window shades 54 act as slaves.

Upon start up, gateway 20, through the instructions stored in memory 32, instructs transceiver 28 to issue a command to all window shades 54 which are connected to the system to identify themselves. Transceiver 28 receives this signal, which is in one arrangement a digital signal comprised of I s and 0s, and transmits an electromagnetic signal to all window shades 54 which are connected to the system. Transceiver 28 communicates to, or speaks to, all window shades 54 which are a part of the system 10 over a specified frequency. As an example, if an RF range of approximately 433MHz is allocated for the system 10, then, as an example, transceiver 28 communicates to window shades at 433.00 MHz. This

electromagnetic command signal is transmitted through DC block 50 and out output 34.

The command signal is combined with power (or voltage) provided by power source 24, power converter 46 and power control system 48 which passes through RF block 52. This combined power and electromagnetic control signal travels over coaxial cable 36 until it reaches the first window shade 56.

Once the combined power and electromagnetic control signal reaches the first window shade 56 it is split into two components by first splitter 66. First splitter 66 divides the power and control signal roughly in half. Splitter 66 directs one half of the power and

electromagnetic control signal into the control module 68 of first window shade 56; whereas the other half of the power and electromagnetic control signal is directed down the second coaxial cable 58 until it reaches second window shade 60.

When the power and electromagnetic control signal reaches the control module 68 of the first window shade 56, it first reaches diverter 72. Diverter 72 diverts the power and control signal into a first channel 74 and a second channel 75.

First channel 74 is directed into F block 76. RF block 76 blocks a predetermined amount of, most of, or all of the electromagnetic wave or electromagnetic signal while allowing the power (or voltage) to freely pass there through. This blocking or filtering eliminates the potential for interference or other deleterious effects of the combined power and electromagnetic control signal. This blocked or filtered power (or voltage) is passed to power control system 78 which adjusts, regulates and directs power (or voltage) in the needed amounts to the needed components of control module 68 of first window shade 56.

Second channel 75 is directed into DC block 80. DC block 80 blocks a predetermined amount of, most of, or all of the power (or voltage) while allowing the electromagnetic wave or electromagnetic signal to pass freely there through. This electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave is transmitted into transceiver 82. Transceiver 82 is tuned to listen specifically to the precise frequency at which transceiver 28 of gateway 20 communicates to or speaks to transceiver 82 of control module 68 of each window shade 54. In this arrangement, as an example, 433.00 MHz is used. In one arrangement, transceiver 82 knows exactly what frequency to listen to through information stored in its memory 86.

Transceiver 82 receives the electromagnetic wave or electromagnetic signal, interprets it and converts it to digital signal of I s and 0s. This digital signal is then transmitted by transceiver 82 to microprocessor 84. Microprocessor 84 reads and interprets the digital signal based on the code and instructions saved within memory 86. Microprocessor 86 recognizes the request to identify itself and instructs transceiver 82 to transmit a return electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave back to gateway 20. Transceiver 82 receives this digital signal of I s and 0s and transmits an electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic waive through DC block 80, diverter 72, splitter 66 and down coaxial cable 36 and into gateway 20. Transceiver 82 transmits this return signal on the same as or a different frequency than the frequency used by transceiver 28 such as 433.01 MHz or the like. This different frequency prevents interference between incoming and outgoing signals. When this electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave reaches gateway 20, the electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave is prevented from passing through RF block 52. However, DC block 50 is essentially invisible to the electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave which passes there through and into transceiver 28.

Pursuant to the instructions stored in memory 32, microprocessor 30 instructs transceiver to intermittently switch between a transmitting mode, wherein electromagnetic signals are sent, and a receiving mode, wherein electromagnetic signals are received. Upon transceiver 28 entering into a receiving mode, transceiver 28 receives and interprets the electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave sent from control module 68 of the first window shade 56. Because the two transceivers 28/82 communicate using different frequencies, they are able to communicate using the same line or wire without talking over one another or interfering with one another or interfering with one another. Transceiver 28 converts this electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave into a digital signal of 1 s and 0s and transmits it to microprocessor 30. Microprocessor 30 then interprets the information received from control module 68 of first window shade 56.

In this manner each and every one of the window shades 54 communicate with gateway 20. Transceiver 28 of gateway 20 communicates to all window shades 54 using the same frequency, in this example 433.00 MHz. In contrast, each of the window shades 54 communicates with gateway 20 using a different or unique frequency (such as 433.01 MHz).

Once gateway 20 is apprised of all window shades 54 connected to the system 10, gateway 20 assigns a specific frequency to each and every one of the window shades. As an example, if gateway 20 communicates to all shades using 433.00 MHz and all window shades initially respond using the different frequency of 433.01 MHz then the first window shade 56 is assigned a frequency of 433.02 MHz, the second window shade 60 is assigned a frequency of 433.03 MHZ, the third window shade 64 is assigned a frequency of 433.04 MHZ, and so on. This specific frequency is transmitted to each window shade and is stored in the memory 86 of each microprocessor 84.

In one arrangement, once gateway 20 is apprised of all window shades 54 connected to the system 10, gateway 20 assigns a specific identification (unique ID) to each and every one of the window shades. As an example, a multi-digit code, or the like is assigned. This specific unique ID is transmitted to each window shade and is stored in the memory 86 of each microprocessor 84. When a unique ID is assigned to all window shades 54, in one mode of operation, all signals to or from that shade will have that unique ID attached to the signal.

In an alternative arrangement, the specific frequency and/or the specific unique ID is embedded within the memory 86 of each microprocessor 84 and therefore does not need to be assigned upon start-up. In this arrangement, upon start-up the window shades 54 merely report their unique IDs to the gateway 20. Or otherwise, this information is associated with the system 10 by any other means.

Using this system, gateway 20 communicates with all window shades 54 over the same frequency, such as 433.00 MHz. Gateway 20 sends control signals, such as open, close, go to position 1 , go to position 2, go to position 3, identify status, identify position, or the like. These signals are sent in association with a unique ID, identifying which window shade 54 the instruction is intended for. As an example, the first window shade 56 is assigned a unique ID of "2074". Then the transceiver 28 would send the following signal over coaxial 36 to all shades to open only the first window shade 56 - "2074 OPEN".

Each transceiver 82 of each window shade 54 listens to the signals transmitted by gateway 20. When a transceiver 82 receives a signal from gateway 20, it interprets it into a digital signal and passes it to microprocessor 84. If microprocessor 84 recognizes that the instruction is intended for that particular shade, by comparing the unique ID in the signal with the unique ID stored in the memory 86 of the microprocessor 84, then the microprocessor 84 carries out the instruction. As one example, when the microprocessor 84 receives an instruction to open the shade, microprocessor 84 sends a control command to motor 88, thereby opening the window shade 54.

If, on the other hand, unique ID associated with the instruction does not match the unique ID of that particular window shade 54. the instruction is ignored, and the

microprocessor 84 instructs transceiver 82 to go back to listening for further instructions.

After the instructed action is completed, microprocessor 84 instructs transceiver 82 to return to a listening mode to listen to further instructions from gateway 20. Alternatively, after an action is completed, microprocessor 84 instructs transceiver 82 to transmit a status update signal to gateway 20. This status update includes information regarding the current status, position or other information of the window shade. Any such signal is transmitted to gateway 20 over coaxial cable 36 using the unique frequency assigned to that particular window shade. In the event that gateway 20 requests a response from any one of or all of the window shades 54, the microprocessor 30 of gateway 20 instructs transceiver 28 to enter a listening mode. In the event that thirty window shades 54 are part of the system 10, the microprocessor 30 instructs transceiver to cycle through each and every one of the specific frequencies assigned to each window shade 54. As an example, if the gateway 20 transmits

electromagnetic signals or electromagnetic waves at a designated frequency of 433.00 MHz, and the first window shade 56 is assigned a frequency of 433.02 MHz. the second window shade 60 is assigned a frequency of 433.03 MHZ, the third window shade 64 is assigned a frequency of 433.04 MHZ, and so on, then the transceiver 28 cycles through each of these frequencies listening for a response from each of the window shades 54.

That is, as an example, if transceiver 28 transmits an electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave to all of the window shades 54 over 433.00 MHz and requests each and every window shade 54 to provide a status report, each window shade 54 will respond by transmitting their status over their designated frequency back to gateway 20, at which point transceiver 28 will first tune to 433.02 MHz and listen for a status from the first window shade 56, then transceiver 28 will tune to 433.03 MHz and listen for a status from the second window shade 60, then transceiver 28 will tune to 433.04 MHz and listen for a status from the third window shade 64, and so on. Fig. 5 is a depiction showing the arrangement wherein the gateway 20 command signal at 433.00 MHZ is combined with power, of 9 to 40 volts and transmitted over a single wire. Fig. 6 is a depiction showing the arrangement wherein the gateway 20 command signal at 433.00 MHZ is combined with power, of 9 to 40 volts and transmitted over a single wire simultaneously with return signals from the first window shade 56 at 433.02 MHz, the second window shade 60 at 433.03 MHz, and the third window shade at 433.04 MHz, and so on.

This method is known as frequency division duplex (FDD), which is a technique where separate frequency bands are used at the transmitter and receiver side. Transceivers 28/82 must be capable of manipulating the operational frequency in accordance with the chosen frequencies. In addition, a minimum amount of frequency separation must be maintained so as to mitigate or prevent interference with upstream and downstream transmissions in both directions.

As the control and command signals are sent using different frequencies, gateway 20 and all window shades 54 can communicate simultaneously using only a single wire. In one arrangement, all control and command signals, as well as the power (or voltage) are sent over the center conductor 44 of coaxial cable 36. Alternatively, all control and command signals, as well as the power (or voltage) are sent over the metallic shield 40 of coaxial cable 36.

Alternatively, some control and command signals, are sent over the metallic shield 40 whereas others are sent over the center conductor 44 of coaxial cable 36, while power (or voltage) is transmitted through either.

The functionality described herein is controlled by a user via wireless device 16, such as a smart phone 16A or a wireless computer 16B, or the like, through wireless access point 12 and then into router 14, or alternatively through wired communication through a desktop computer 18 to router 14. Thereafter, these signals are transmitted into microprocessor 30, which instructs transceiver 28 to communicate with window shades 54 as is described herein. Information is transmitted back to wireless device 16 and/or wired device 18 in the reverse order. In this way, a user can two-way communicate with and control a plurality of window shades 54 using only a single coaxial cable 36.

This system provides substantial efficiencies by having the plurality of motorized window shades 54 that communicate with the gateway 20 using a similar, but slightly different frequency. This use of similar but slightly different frequencies allows the use of tunable transceivers that can communicate with one another. This allows the use of a single transceiver to send and receive specific messages for a plurality of individual devices. This avoids the need to have multiple or different transceivers or electronic components to handle communication. As is described herein as an example, when the gateway communicates using 433.0 MHz, the individual window shades 54 communicate using 433.01 , 433.02, 433.03, 433.04, etc. That is, each of these individual frequencies vary approximately 0.002% from one another (433.01 MHz / 433.00 MHz = 1.00002309 or -0.002%). Any other amount of variation is hereby contemplated for use as a similar but slightly different frequency, such as 0.001 % variation, 0.003%, 0.004%, 0.005%, 0.006%, 0.007%, 0.008%, 0.009%. 0.01 %, 0.01 1 %, 0.012%, 0.013%, 0.014%, 0.015%, 0.016%, 0.017%, 0.018%, 0.019%, 0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, 0.05%, 0.06%, 0.07%, 0.08%, 0.09%, 0.1 %, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1. 0%, or any other amount or range.

In an alternative arrangement, while a single string of window shades 54 connected in series is shown and described, it is contemplated that multiple strings of window shades 54 connected in series to one another is hereby contemplated. This arrangement of multiple strings of window shades 54 connected in series are connected to a single gateway 20, as is shown in Fig. 1 , reduces or eliminates the need to have a booster. In addition, having multiple strands of window shades connected in series and connected to a single gateway 20 provides some advantages in certain structures where strands of window shades 54 are located in opposites sides of the building. That is, when gateway 20 is centrally located within a structure, and window shades 54 are positioned east, west, north and south of the gateway 20, a single coaxial cable 36 can stretch in each direction to power and control these window shades 54. Having multiple strands of window shades 54 shortens the length of any one coaxial cable 36, and provides a more-direct route to particular window shades 54 and particular areas of the building or structure.

In another arrangement, as is shown in Fig. 1 , it is hereby contemplated that window shades 54 can be linked to gateway 20 in branches 92. A branch 92 is one window shade 54, or a plurality of window shades 54 linked in series, which branch off of a main line of coaxial cable 36. Adding branches 92 allow for access to different areas of a structure or building and help to reduce the cost and complexity of wiring a building or structure. In all other ways, branches 92 of window shades 54 operate and communicate in the same way described herein.

In yet another alternative arrangement, while the window shades 54 connected to gateway 20 are described as being linked in series, it is hereby contemplated that the improvements described herein equally apply to shades linked in parallel to one another.

In an alternative arrangement, the system 10 has been described when wireless device

16 is operating within over-the-air communication distance with wireless access point 12, or when wired device 18 is connected to wireless access point 12 through the home network. The system 10 however works in the same manner when wireless device 16 and/or wired device 18 are not within over-the-air communication distance or connected by wire to home network. In this arrangement, wireless device 16 wirelessly connects to cell tower 94 which connects to the users Internet service provider 94 which then connects to the external network 90 (otherwise known as the cloud or the internet) which then connects to the wireless access point 12 and/or router 14. From there, the system 10 operates in the same manner described herein.

From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the system and method offers and provides many advantages over the prior art. Specifically, the invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that improves upon the state of the art. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is reduces expense and cost when compared to the state of the art. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is less complex than the state of the art. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that reduces or eliminates the possibility of connecting wires in an incorrect manner. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that uses components that are standardized and well known. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is more robust than the state of the art. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that has greater durability and less potential for corruption than the state of the art. The invention provides a system and method of powering and controlling a motorized system that is more aesthetically pleasing than the state of the art due to the reduction in the number of wires needed.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this invention. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.