Optical sensor light switch

Abstract

A switch for controlling a lighting device includes a contact surface, a light source, and an optical navigation sensor. The contact surface includes a generally transparent zone and is configured for removably receiving a fingertip adjacent to the transparent zone. The light source is configured to illuminate the transparent zone of the contact surface. The optical navigation sensor is configured to sense relative motion of the illuminated fingertip at the transparent zone to modify a function of a lighting device external to the light switch based on the relative motion.

Description

technical field [0001] The invention relates to an optical sensor lighting switch. Background technique [0002] Almost everyone has had the dilemma of being in a room that is too brightly lit for the room they want to use. However, the absence of lighting in a room renders the room unusable. One traditional way to deal with this situation is to install a dimmer switch, which can change the lighting intensity of the room to the desired intensity. Traditional dimmer switches typically include some form of circuitry to adjust the voltage supplied to the lamp. In one example, a circuit known as a triac (eg, a silicon controlled rectifier) ​​is used to vary the voltage by controlling the waveform of the alternating current. Triac circuits are commonly referred to as TRIACs. [0003] There are many difficulties with effectively operating a dimmer switch, including radio frequency interference, power harmonics, heat, and the non-linear current demand of an incandescent light b...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Each switch of this type includes moving parts which often fail and add to the cost of the switch

Also, traditional wall switches are often unsightly, but are put up with because of the functionality they provide

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