A control device configured to provide visual feedback

Abstract

A control device configured to be used in a load control system to control an external electrical load can provide simple feedback regarding the operation of the control device. For example, the control device can include a base portion configured to be mounted to an electrical wall box or mounted above a mechanical switch, and a control unit connected to the base portion. The control unit can include a rotating portion, an actuating portion, and a light source that are capable of rotating relative to the base portion. The control unit can be configured to control the light source in response to actuation of the rotating portion and the actuating portion to at least illuminate an illuminated portion of the actuating portion. Additionally, when the electrical load has reached a limit, the control unit can provide a limit indication on the illuminated portion by causing the illuminated portion to blink.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 729,810, filed on Sep. 11, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 846,275, filed on May 10, 2019, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] In accordance with certain installations of load control systems, one or more standard mechanical toggle switches can be replaced with more advanced load control devices (e.g., dimmer switches). Such load control devices can operate to control the amount of electrical power delivered from an alternating current (AC) power source to an electrical load. The process of replacing a standard mechanical toggle switch with a load control device typically requires disconnecting wires, removing the mechanical toggle switch from an electrical wall box, installing the load control device in the wall box, and reconnecting the wires to the load control device. Generally, such processes are performed by an electrical contractor or other skilled installer. The average consumer may be reluctant to undertake the electrical wiring required to complete the installation of a load control device. Accordingly, there is a need for a load control system that can be installed into an existing electrical system having a mechanical toggle switch without any electrical wiring work. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A control device configured for use in a load control system to control an external electrical load (such as a lighting device) can provide feedback regarding the operation of the control device (e.g., simple feedback). For example, the control device can include a base portion configured to be mounted to an electrical wall box or mounted above a mechanical switch, and a control unit configured to be connected to the base portion. The control unit can include a rotatable portion capable of rotating relative to the base portion, an actuating portion having a front surface, a light source, and a control circuit. The control circuit can be configured to control the light source to illuminate at least an illuminated portion (e.g., near the top of the front surface of the actuating portion) on the front surface of the actuating portion. In response to rotation of the rotatable portion, the control circuit can determine first control data for controlling the lighting device, control the light source to illuminate the illuminated portion of the actuating portion, and transmit a control signal including the first control data. In response to actuation of the actuating portion, the control circuit can determine second control data for controlling the lighting device, control the light source to illuminate the illuminated portion of the actuating portion, and transmit a control signal including the second control data. The control unit can further include a mask that can be located between the light source and the actuating portion and can have an aperture through which light emitted by the light source can irradiate the actuating portion. Additionally, the control unit can be configured to control the light source to emit light from the rear side of the control unit to illuminate at least a portion of the panel of the mechanical switch on which the base portion is mounted.

[0005] The control circuit can be configured to provide a limit indication when the lighting device is at or has reached a limit (e.g., high-end trim or maximum intensity). The control circuit can provide a limit indication on the illuminated portion of the actuating portion in response to determining that the rotating portion has rotated a predetermined threshold amount continuously. For example, the predetermined threshold amount can be the amount of rotation required to raise the lighting device from low-end intensity to high-end intensity. Additionally, the control circuit can track the intensity of the lighting device and provide a limit indication on the illuminated portion of the actuating portion when the intensity of the lighting device has reached a limit. Further, the control unit can include a communication circuit configured to receive a message indicating that the lighting device has reached a limit, and the control circuit can provide a first indication on the illuminated portion of the actuating portion in response to receiving the message indicating that the lighting device has reached a limit.

[0006] The control circuit can also be configured to determine control data for adjusting the color temperature of the one or more lighting devices in response to rotation of the rotating portion. When the rotating portion rotates in a first direction (e.g., to increase the color temperature), the control circuit can illuminate the illuminated portion with a first color (e.g., cool white or blue), and when the rotating portion rotates in a second direction (e.g., to decrease the color temperature), illuminate the illuminated portion with a second color (e.g., warm white or red).

[0007] The control device can also be configured to provide advanced feedback on a visible indicator of the control unit. In response to rotation of the rotating portion, the control circuit can determine control data for controlling the intensity of the lighting device, control the light source to illuminate at least a portion of the visible indicator to indicate the intensity of the lighting device, and transmit a control signal including the control data. The control circuit can be configured to control the plurality of light sources to provide a limit indication on the visible indicator when the intensity of the lighting device has reached a limit.

[0008] A control device configured for use in a load control system to control an external electrical load (such as a lighting device) can provide feedback regarding the operation of the control device. The control device can include a base portion configured to be mounted to an electrical wall box or above a mechanical switch, and a control unit configured to be connected to the base portion. The control device can include a control unit that can be connected to the base portion. The control unit can include an actuating portion and a light source. The light source can be configured to emit light from the rear side of the control unit. For example, the light source can be configured to emit light from the rear side of the control unit and illuminate a portion of the panel of the mechanical switch (e.g., the mechanical switch on which the control unit is mounted).

[0009] A portion of the faceplate of the mechanical switch can be illuminated to provide feedback in response to a user interface event. For example, the control unit can be configured to control a light source to illuminate the entire perimeter around the control unit on the faceplate of the mechanical switch in response to actuation of the actuating portion. Additionally, or alternatively, the control unit can be configured to control the light source to illuminate a section of the perimeter around the control unit in a specific color (e.g., red) after detecting the actuation of the actuating portion to indicate a low power condition. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1A and Figure 1B depicts an exemplary load control system including one or more exemplary control devices.

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary control device that can be deployed as Figure 1A and Figure 1B a dimmer switch and / or a remote control device of the load control system shown.

[0012] Figures 3A to 3D shows different forms of simple feedback that can be provided by the Figure 2 control device.

[0013] Figure 3E shows, in response to actuation of an actuator, Figure 2 an example graph of the intensity of the illuminated portion of the control device versus time.

[0014] Figure 3F shows Figure 2 an example graph of the intensity of the illuminated portion of the control device versus time to generate a "heartbeat" animation.

[0015] Figure 4 is a perspective view of another exemplary control device that can be deployed as Figure 1A and Figure 1B a dimmer switch and / or a remote control device of the load control system shown.

[0016] Figures 5A to 5B shows different forms of simple feedback that can be provided by the Figure 4 control device.

[0017] Figures 6A to 6C shows different forms of advanced feedback that can be provided by the Figure 4 control device.

[0018] Figure 7A is a front perspective view of an exemplary remote control device that can be deployed as Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe remote control device of the load control system shown, wherein the control unit is separated from the base portion.

[0019] Figure 7B is Figure 7A The rear perspective view of the control unit and the base portion of the remote control device depicted in.

[0020] Figure 7C is Figure 7A The front exploded view of the control unit of the remote control device depicted in.

[0021] Figure 7D shows Figure 7C The rear exploded view of the control unit of the exemplary remote control device depicted in.

[0022] Figure 8A is the front perspective view of an exemplary remote control device that can be deployed as the remote control device of the load control system shown in FIG. 1, wherein the control unit is separated from the base portion.

[0023] Figure 8B is Figure 8A The rear perspective view of the control unit of the remote control device of.

[0024] Figure 8C is Figure 8A The front exploded view of the control unit of the remote control device depicted in.

[0025] Figure 8D shows Figure 8C The rear exploded view of the control unit of the exemplary remote control device depicted in.

[0026] Figure 8E is the perspective view of the control unit mounted to the base in a horizontal orientation of Figure 8A of.

[0027] Figure 9 shows a simplified block diagram of an exemplary control device that can be deployed as Figure 1A and Figure 1B the remote control device of the load control system shown in.

[0028] Figures 10 to 12 is a flowchart of an exemplary control process that can be executed by the control unit of the control device in response to the rotation of the rotating part. Detailed Description

[0029] Figure 1A and Figure 1B depict examples of a load control system 100 that can implement one or more message types for transmitting messages (e.g., digital messages). As Figure 1AAs shown, the load control system 100 can include various control devices, such as a controller device and / or a load control device. The controller device can send digital messages to the load control device to cause the load control device to control the amount of electrical power provided from the AC power supply 102 to the electrical load in the load control system 100.

[0030] The load control device can control the electrical load in a room and / or a building. Each load control device may be capable of directly controlling the amount of electrical power provided to the electrical load in response to communication from the controller device. Exemplary load control devices can include lighting devices 112a, 112b, and / or lighting device 122 (e.g., a load control device in a light bulb, a ballast, an LED driver, etc.). The lighting device can be the lighting load itself, or a device including the lighting load and a lighting load controller.

[0031] The controller device can indirectly control the amount of electrical power provided to the electrical load by transmitting digital messages to the load control device. The digital message can include control data, such as a control instruction (e.g., a load control instruction), an indication of the actuation of a button or an actuator, or another indication that causes the load control device to determine a load control instruction for controlling the electrical load. Exemplary controller devices can include a remote control device 116. The controller device can include a wired device or a wireless device.

[0032] The control device (e.g., the controller device and / or the load control device) can communicate with other control devices and / or other devices via wired and / or wireless communication. The control device can communicate using digital messages transmitted as wireless signals. For example, the control device can communicate via a radio frequency (RF) signal 106. The RF signal 106 can be transmitted via any suitable RF communication protocol (e.g., Thread; Near Field Communication (NFC); a proprietary communication protocol such as CLEAR CONNECT TM etc.). The digital message can be transmitted as a multicast message and / or a unicast message via the RF signal 106.

[0033] The lighting device 122 can be installed in an insertion device 124, such as a lamp (e.g., a table lamp). The insertion device 124 can be connected in series electrically between the AC power supply 102 and the lighting device 122. The insertion device 124 can be inserted into an electrical socket 126 powered by the AC power supply 102. The insertion device 124 can be inserted into the electrical socket 126, or into a separate insertion load control device that is inserted into the electrical socket 126 and is configured to control the power delivered to the lighting device 122.

[0034] The lighting devices 112a, 112b can be controlled by the wall-mounted load control device 110. Although the lighting devices 112a, 112b are shown in Figure 1A , any number of lighting devices that can be supported by the wall-mounted load control device 110 and / or the AC power supply 102 can be implemented. The wall-mounted load control device 110 can be connected in series between the AC power supply 102 and the lighting devices 112a, 112b. The wall-mounted load control device 110 can include a mechanical switch 111 (e.g., a previously installed light switch) that can be opened and closed in response to the actuation of a switching actuator (not shown) to control the power transmitted from the AC power supply 102 to the lighting devices 112a, 112b (e.g., to turn on and off the lighting devices 112a, 112b). The lighting devices 112a, 112b can be installed in corresponding ceiling-mounted downlight fixtures 114a, 114b or other downlight fixtures mounted to another surface. The wall-mounted load control device 110 can be adapted for wall-mounted installation in a standard electrical wall box.

[0035] The remote control device 116 can be configured to transmit messages via the RF signal 106 to control the lighting devices 112a, 112b. The remote control device 116 can be a modified remote control device mounted above the switching actuator of the mechanical switch 111. The remote control device 116 can be configured to hold the switching actuator of the mechanical switch 111 in the "on" position (e.g., by covering the switch when in the "on" position) to maintain the flow of power from the AC power supply 102 to the lighting devices 112a, 112b. The remote control device 116 can include an actuating portion 117 that can be actuated (e.g., pushed toward the mechanical switch 111) and a rotating portion 118 (e.g., a knob) that can be rotated (e.g., relative to the mechanical switch 111). Although the rotating portion 118 is disclosed, the remote control device 116 can include another type of intensity adjustment actuator, such as a linear slider, an elongated touch-sensitive actuator, a rocker switch, a separate raise / lower actuator, or another form of intensity adjustment actuator. The remote control device 116 can be battery-powered. Additionally, the remote control device 116 can be mounted to another structure (e.g., other than the switching actuator of the mechanical switch 111) such as a wall, can be attached to a base located on a horizontal surface, or can be handheld. Further, the wall-mounted load control device 110 can include a wall-mounted remote control device that replaces the previously installed mechanical switch 111 and can be configured to operate as the remote control device 116 to control the lighting devices 112a, 112b (e.g., by transmitting messages via the RF signal 106). Such a wall-mounted remote control device can obtain power from the AC power supply 102.

[0036] In response to the remote control device 116 (e.g., in response to actuation of the actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116), the lighting devices 112a, 112b can be turned on or off, or the intensity level can be adjusted. For example, the lighting devices 112a, 112b can be switched on or off by a switching event identified at the remote control device 116. The switching event can be a user event identified at the remote control device 116. The actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116 can be actuated to switch the lighting devices 112a, 112b on or off. The rotary portion 118 of the remote control device 116 can be rotated to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b. A switching event can be identified when the rotary portion 118 of the remote control device 116 is rotated for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time, and / or when the actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116 is actuated. The intensity level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b can be increased or decreased by rotating the rotary portion 118 of the remote control device 116 in one direction or the other, respectively. For example, the intensity level of each lighting device 112a, 112b can be adjusted between a high-end intensity (e.g., maximum intensity, such as approximately 100%) and a low-end intensity (e.g., minimum intensity, such as approximately 0.1% - 10%). Although shown in Figure 1A and Figure 1B as including a knob, the remote control device 116 can include a paddle switch that can be actuated by a user, a linear control on which the user can swipe a finger, a raise / lower slider, a rocker switch, or another type of control that can receive a user interface event as a command.

[0037] The remote control device 116 can provide feedback (e.g., visual feedback) to the user of the remote control device 116 on a visible indicator 119 (e.g., a status indicator). The visible indicator 119 can provide different types of feedback. The feedback can include feedback indicating actuation by the user or other user interface events, the status of the electrical load controlled by the remote control device 116, and / or the status of the load control device controlled by the remote control device 116. The feedback can be displayed in response to a user interface event and / or in response to a received message indicating the status of the load control device and / or the electrical load. The visible indicator 119 can be illuminated by one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to provide the feedback. For example, the visible indicator 119 can be a light bar that includes the entire perimeter or a portion thereof around the actuation portion 117 of the remote control device 116. The visible indicator 119 can also be or alternatively a light bar on a line on the remote control device 116, such as when the remote control device is a paddle switch or a linear control. Additionally, the visible indicator 119 can be an illuminated portion on the actuation portion 117.

[0038] Exemplary types of feedback can include illuminating the entire visible indicator 119 (e.g., illuminating to different levels), flashing or pulsing one or more LEDs in the visible indicator 119, changing the color (e.g., color temperature) of one or more LEDs on the visible indicator 119, and / or illuminating different segments of one or more LEDs in the visible indicator 119 to provide an animation (e.g., clockwise and counterclockwise animations for raising and lowering the illumination level). The feedback on the visible indicator 119 can indicate the state of the electrical load or the load control device, such as the illumination intensity level of a lamp (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122), the volume level of an audio device, the light-shielding level of an electric curtain, and / or the speed of a fan or other similar types of devices operating at different speeds. The feedback on the visible indicator 119 can be changed based on the selection of different presets. For example, different ones or more LEDs can be illuminated on the visible indicator 119 to identify different presets (e.g., the preset intensity levels of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and / or other preset configurations of the load control device).

[0039] The visible indicator 119 or a portion thereof can be turned on or off to indicate the state of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the visible indicator 119 can be turned off to indicate that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are in the off state. The entire visible indicator or a portion thereof can be turned on to indicate that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are in the on state. The turned-on portion of the visible indicator 119 can indicate the intensity level of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, when the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are at a 50% intensity level, 50% of the visible indicator 119 can be turned on to reflect the intensity level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0040] The remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback to the user on the visible indicator 119, for example, in response to an actuation or other user interface event received at the remote control device 116. For example, the simple feedback can indicate to the user that the remote control device 116 is operating correctly (e.g., in response to the actuation or rotation of a toggle button). In response to a button press, the simple feedback can illuminate or flash one or more LEDs. The simple feedback can indicate that the remote control device 116 or a button thereon has been actuated. The simple feedback can indicate that a command has been selected in response to a user interface event. For example, the simple feedback can provide a flashing sequence in response to the actuation of a toggle event. The simple feedback can be in response to the clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the remote control device 116 (e.g., as Figure 11As shown, provide solid illumination of the visible indicator 119 at different illumination levels. Since simple feedback can provide information that does not indicate the state of the load control device, the visible indicator 119 can operate more as a visible indicator of other types of states, or may not indicate the state of the device at all.

[0041] The remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback to the user on the visible indicator 119 based on knowledge of the state of the load control device, such that the feedback can provide status information to the user. For example, rotation of the remote control device 116 can cause the visual feedback to track the light levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The light levels can be stored in the remote control device 116 (e.g., if a remote control device is assigned to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be controlled as a group from the dedicated remote control device 116), or can be received by the remote control device 116 in response to a query message transmitted from the remote control device 116. For advanced feedback in response to a user interface event such as a switching event, when the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are turned on, the lights on the visible indicator 119 can increase from off to the on light level, and when the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are turned off, decrease from the on light level to off. Examples of remote control devices that provide simple and / or advanced feedback are described in more detail in the co-owned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0114434, titled "CONTROLLING GROUPS OF ELECTRICAL LOADS", published on April 26, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] The remote control device 116 can provide different feedback on the visible indicator 119 based on the number of load control devices associated with the remote control device 116. For example, when a single lighting device 112a is associated with the remote control device 116, the remote control device 116 can provide different feedback on the visible indicator 119 compared to when multiple lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are associated with the remote control device 116. When a single load control device is associated with the remote control device 116, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback on the visible indicator 119. When multiple load control devices are associated with the remote control device 116, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback on the visible indicator 119. When the remote control device 116 is associated with multiple load control devices, simple feedback can be provided because the load control devices can be different types of devices, can currently be controlled differently, can be at different levels (e.g., different intensity levels), and / or may be at levels unknown to the remote control device 116.

[0043] The remote control device 116 can provide different feedback on the visible indicator based on whether the loads of the associated load control devices are synchronized. When the loads are synchronized (e.g., the same state of the associated load control devices is received), the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback on the visible indicator 119. For example, in response to a switching event or rotation for controlling the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., continuously predefined angular distance and / or continuously predefined amount of time in a certain direction), the remote control device 116 can wake up from the sleep state and query the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 about their current states. The remote control device 116 can receive the current states of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., on / off state, lighting level, color, etc.) and determine that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are in the same state. The visible indicator 119 on the remote control device 116 can indicate the states of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 received in response to the query message. While the remote control device 116 remains awake, the visible indicator 119 can reflect the updated states of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 as the states change. After a predefined period of time, the remote control device 116 can return to the sleep state. The visible indicator 119 can be turned off in the sleep state to save battery power.

[0044] When the loads are out of sync (e.g., receiving different states of an associated load control device), the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback or advanced feedback on the visible indicator 119. For example, in response to a switching event or rotation for controlling the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., continuously for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time in a certain direction), the remote control device 116 can wake up from the sleep state and query the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 for their current states. The visible indicator 119 on the remote control device 116 can indicate the state of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 received in response to the query message. When the states of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are in sync, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback such that the visible indicator 119 on the remote control device 116 indicates the intensity level at which all the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are operating.

[0045] When the states of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are out of sync, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback on the visible indicator 119. For example, the visible indicator 119 on the remote control device 116 can reflect the current state of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 that first respond to the query message, or the state of a specific lighting device 112a, 112b, 122 in the group. For example, in response to a query message for the current state of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, the lighting device 112a can first respond that it is at an intensity level of 10%. The visible indicator 119 on the remote control device 116 can reflect the current state of the lighting device 112a on the visible indicator 119. The group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be lighting devices that have been associated with the remote control device 116 in the memory, or lighting devices that are stored in the memory together with a group identifier for being controlled together.

[0046] When the states of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are not synchronized, the visible indicator 119 can provide high-level feedback representative of the states of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the visible indicator 119 can indicate the average intensity of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 or the states of most of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The visible indicator 119 can provide high-level feedback to indicate the states of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 in the following ways: lighting up the entire visible indicator 119 when most of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are in the on state; turning off the visible indicator 119 when most of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are in the off state; lighting up the part of the visible indicator 119 that identifies the average lighting level of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122; increasing the intensity of the visible indicator 119 to a percentage that reflects the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, etc.

[0047] When the states of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are not synchronized, the visible indicator 119 can provide simple or high-level feedback indicating that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are not synchronized. For example, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback by causing the entire visible indicator 119 to light up, turn off, or flash to indicate that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are not synchronized. The remote control device 116 can provide high-level feedback in the following ways: flashing or pulsing the visible indicator 119 when displaying the average intensity level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122; causing the visible indicator 119 to periodically transition between the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122; or causing the visible indicator 119 to periodically transition between the maximum intensity level and the minimum intensity level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. When the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 is not synchronized, no feedback can be provided, a constant feedback indication can be provided, or feedback indicating that the group of lighting devices is not synchronized (e.g., a flashing LED) can be provided.

[0048] The remote control device 116 can be configured to display feedback (e.g., simple feedback) in response to determining that one or more of the "missing" lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are missing. For example, the remote control device can be configured to blink the entire visible indicator 119 (e.g., in a specific color such as red) and / or provide an animation to indicate that one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are missing. The remote control device 116 can be configured to determine that a particular lighting device is missing, for example, in response to not receiving a response to a query message transmitted to one of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, if one of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 has been removed (e.g., unscrewed) from its fixture or lamp, unplugged, malfunctioned, the corresponding light switch is turned off (e.g., a series light switch is turned off while other light switches are on), and / or has reached the end of its life, then the lighting device may be "missing".

[0049] If the load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122) associated with the remote control device 116 are not associated with other remote control devices, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback. If one or more of the load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122) associated with the remote control device 116 are also associated with other remote control devices, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback. This can allow for more refined feedback for a separate set of load control devices associated with the remote control device 116 while preventing continuous updates or confusion when other remote control devices are controlling multiple load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122).

[0050] The remote control device 116 can transmit digital messages via the RF signal 106 to control the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The remote control device 116 can be configured to use absolute control to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 so as to control the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to an absolute level (e.g., a specific level). For example, the remote control device 116 can transmit a digital message that includes a move-to-level command (e.g., a go-to-level or go-to command) identifying the lighting level to which the lighting device can change. The move-to-level command can include the amount of time at which the lighting level can be changed at the lighting device. The move-to-level command can indicate an "on" event or an "off" event to turn on or off the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, respectively. For example, the "on" event can be indicated by a 100% lighting level or another preset lighting level. The "off" event can be indicated by a 0% intensity level. The lighting levels of the "on" event and / or the "off" event can also or alternatively be stored at the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, and the lighting devices can change to that lighting level when an indication that the "on" event or the "off" event has occurred is received at the remote control device 116. When the remote control device 116 rotates in one direction for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time, the digital message can indicate an "on" event. As an example, when the remote control device 116 rotates for 100 milliseconds (ms), the remote control device 116 can transmit a digital message. When the remote control device 116 rotates in the opposite direction for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time, the digital message can indicate an "off" event. When the remote controller device 116 is pressed (e.g., when a button on the surface of the remote control device is pressed or the remote control device 116 is pressed), the digital message can indicate an "on" event or an "off" event. A toggle command can be utilized in the digital message to indicate an "on" event or an "off" event, which indicates that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 switch from "on" to "off", or vice versa.

[0051] In response to a user interface event (e.g., actuation, rotation, finger swipe, etc.) or a proximity sensing event (e.g., the sensing circuit senses occupancy near the remote control device 116) at the remote control device 116, the remote control device 116 can determine a starting point (e.g., a dynamic starting point) from which the lighting level of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be controlled. Each rotation of the rotating part 118 can cause the remote control device 116 to determine a dynamic starting point from which control can be performed. In response to a user interface event and / or a proximity sensing event (e.g., the sensing circuit senses occupancy near the remote control device 116), the remote control device 116 can query the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 for their current status (e.g., after waking up from the sleep mode). The current status of one or more of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be used to set the dynamic starting point from which the remote control device 116 can perform control. For example, the remote control device 116 can set the dynamic starting point of the rotating part 118 to the first one of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 in response to the query or to a predefined current intensity level (e.g., on, off, 10%, 20%, etc.) of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0052] In another example, the remote control device 116 can set the dynamic starting point of the rotating part 118 based on the intensity levels of multiple lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the remote control device 116 can set the dynamic starting point of the rotating part 118 to the average intensity level (e.g., on, off, 10%, 20%, etc.) of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, or to the common lighting intensity (e.g., on, off, 10%, 20%, etc.) of most of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, when rotating the rotating part 118 clockwise to increase the intensity level of the lighting devices, the remote control device 116 can set the dynamic starting point of the rotating part 118 to the maximum level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, or when rotating the rotating part 118 counterclockwise to decrease the intensity level of the lighting devices, set the dynamic starting point of the rotating part to the minimum level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The visible indicator 119 can be illuminated as feedback to inform the user of the dynamic starting point. For example, the remote control device 116 can illuminate a part of the visible indicator 119 that reflects the lighting intensity set as the dynamic starting point.

[0053] The remote control device 116 can calculate an increase or decrease in the intensity level from a dynamic starting point based on a user interface event. For example, the remote control device 116 can calculate an increase or decrease in the intensity level based on the distance or amount of time that the rotating part 118 rotates. Rotation from the point of the user's initial interaction with the rotating part 118 can be used to identify an increase or decrease in the intensity level starting from the dynamic starting point. When the remote control device 116 includes a linear control, the remote control device 116 can calculate an increase or decrease in the intensity level based on the distance or amount of time that the user swipes a finger up or down on the linear control. The swipe of the user's finger from the point of the user's initial interaction with the linear control can be used to identify an increase or decrease in the intensity level from the dynamic starting point.

[0054] An updated intensity level can be calculated from the user's initial interaction and stored at the remote control device 116. For example, when the remote control device 116 uses absolute control, the updated intensity level can be included in the move to level command transmitted from the remote control device 116 to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0055] When the remote control device 116 uses absolute control, the visual feedback displayed by the visible indicator 119 can be provided in or derived from the information in the move to level command. For example, the remote control device 116 can reflect the intensity level transmitted in the move to level command in the visible indicator 119.

[0056] The remote control device 116 can transmit a digital message that is configured to increase the illumination level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 when the rotating part 118 rotates in a certain direction (e.g., clockwise). As previously described, the remote control device 116 can be configured to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to an absolute level using absolute control. Additionally or alternatively, the remote control device 116 can be configured to adjust the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 using relative control to adjust a relative amount of the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the remote control device 116 can transmit a digital message that is configured to decrease the illumination level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 when the remote control device 116 rotates in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise). The digital message can include a move-with-rate command that can cause the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to change their respective intensity levels by a predefined amount. The move-with-rate command can include the amount of time at which the lighting level can be changed at the lighting device. The move-with-rate command can cause the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 to maintain their relative or proportional intensity levels and / or the difference in the respective intensity levels. The remote control device 116 can send a digital message to increase or decrease the illumination level by a predefined amount when the rotation continues for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time. The amount of increase or decrease can be indicated in the digital message or can be predefined at the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0057] When the remote control device 116 is operated using relative control and when the remote control device 116 is operated using absolute control, the visible indicator 119 can be controlled differently. When performing absolute control, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback on the visible indicator 119 because each of the load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122) can be synchronized. When performing relative control, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback because each of the load control devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122) may not be synchronized. When using relative control, the visible indicator 119 may not be illuminated to provide feedback on the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. When the remote control device 116 raises and lowers the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, the visible indicator 119 can be illuminated to different intensities. For example, when raising the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, the visible indicator 119 can be illuminated to a first intensity (e.g., 66%), and when lowering the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, it can be illuminated to a second intensity (e.g., 33%). Alternatively or additionally, the visible indicator 119 can be illuminated to match the maximum or minimum intensity of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122.

[0058] The control mode (e.g., relative control or absolute control) can be dynamically updated at the remote control device 116. For example, the remote control device 116 can change the control mode based on the number of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with the remote control device 116. When associated with a single lighting device, the remote control device 116 can use absolute control. When associated with multiple lighting devices, the remote control device 116 can use relative control. The control mode can also or alternatively be updated based on whether the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are synchronized or not. When the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are synchronized, the remote control device 116 can use absolute control. When the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are not synchronized, the remote control device 116 uses relative control.

[0059] The visual feedback provided by the visible indicator 119 can be dynamically updated according to the control mode used at the remote control device 116. The remote control device 116 can provide feedback according to a simple feedback mode when using relative control and according to an advanced feedback mode when using absolute control. For example, the advanced feedback mode can provide feedback indicating the intensity level of one or more lighting devices that are part of the entire visible indicator 119. The simple feedback mode can provide simple feedback that illuminates the entire visible indicator 119 to different levels when the intensity is increased or decreased.

[0060] The digital message transmitted via the RF signal 106 can be a multicast message. For example, a digital message including a move-to-level command can be transmitted as a multicast message. The multicast message can include a group identifier for controlling the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 that are part of a multicast group. The lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be part of a multicast group when they are associated with the group identifier (e.g., by storing the group identifier thereon) to identify the multicast message transmitted to the group. The lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with the group identifier can identify the multicast message and control the corresponding lighting load according to the command in the multicast message. The lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can forward the multicast message with the group identifier for identification and load control by other lighting devices associated with the group identifier.

[0061] The group can be formed during the debugging or configuration of the load control system 100. When the remote control device 116 is in an association mode (e.g., entered when one or more buttons are selected), the remote control device 116 can generate a group identifier and send the group identifier to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and / or the hub device. The device storing the group identifier can be part of the group of devices associated with the remote control device 116 and can respond to group messages.

[0062] The remote control device 116 can transmit digital messages as multicast messages and / or unicast messages via the RF signal 106. For example, digital messages including a rate-of-change movement command or a move-to-level command can be transmitted as unicast messages. The unicast messages can be sent directly from the remote control device 116 or sent via a hop to each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The remote control device 116 can individually send unicast messages to each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with the remote control device 116 for performing load control. The remote control device 116 can store the unique identifier of each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with it in a memory. The remote control device 116 can generate separate unicast messages for each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and address the unicast messages independently to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The unicast messages can also include the unique identifier of the remote control device 116. The lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can identify the unicast messages sent to them by recognizing their own unique identifiers stored in the associated dataset and / or the corresponding identifiers of the remote control device. The lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can operate according to the instructions (e.g., load control instructions) in the digital message, which includes their own unique identifiers and / or the unique identifiers of the associated devices (such as the remote control device 116).

[0063] The remote control device 116 can transmit digital messages including a rate-of-change movement command (e.g., as unicast messages and / or multicast messages) so that when the user turns the remote control device 116 in one direction or the other for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time, the lighting intensity level of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 is increased or decreased in predefined increments. When the user continues to turn the remote control device 116, the remote control device 116 can continue to transmit digital messages to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the remote control device 116 can recognize a rotation of a predefined distance or a predefined time and send one or more digital messages to indicate that each of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 is increased by ten percent (10%). The remote control device 116 can recognize a continuous rotation for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time and send digital messages to indicate that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are increased by ten percent (10%) again.

[0064] The remote control device 116 may also or alternatively send digital messages for commands to move to a level (e.g., "on" command, "off" command, toggle command, etc.) to turn on / off the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. When an on event or off event is detected, the remote control device 116 may transmit one or more digital messages to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. For example, the remote control device 116 may recognize a rotation or actuation and send a digital message to indicate that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are turned on / off. The remote control device 116 may operate by sending a move at rate command after turning on. For example, the remote control device 116 may recognize a rotation that continues for a predefined angular distance and / or for a predefined amount of time after turning on, and send a digital message to indicate that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 increase / decrease the predefined intensity (e.g., ten percent (10%)).

[0065] The embodiments described herein are not limited to remote control devices. Other controller devices may be used in the same or similar manner. For example, the embodiments may include a wired control device and / or a plug-in control device that transmits digital messages as described herein.

[0066] Figure 1B An exemplary load control system 100 with other devices is shown. For example, the load control system 100 may include other control devices, such as a controller device and / or a load control device. The load control device may be capable of controlling the amount of electrical power supplied to a corresponding electrical load based on a digital message received from a controller device (which may be an input device). The digital message may include a load control instruction or another indication that causes the load control device to determine a load control instruction for controlling the electrical load.

[0067] Examples of load control devices may include motorized curtains 130 and / or lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, but other load control devices may be implemented. The controller device may include a remote control device 150, an occupancy sensor 160, a daylight sensor 170, and / or a network device 190, but other controller devices may be implemented. The controller device may perform communication in a configuration similar to the remote control device 116 described herein. The load control device may perform communication in a configuration similar to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 described herein.

[0068] The load control device may communicate via a wireless signal such as a radio frequency (RF) signal 106 (e.g., NFC; Thread; or a dedicated communication channel, such as CLEAR CONNECT TMetc.) receive digital messages. The wireless signals can be transmitted by the controller device. In response to the received digital message, the corresponding lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be turned on and off, and / or the intensity of the corresponding lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 can be increased or decreased. In response to the received digital message, the motorized curtain 130 can increase or decrease the level of the covering material 134.

[0069] The battery-powered remote control device 150 can include one or more actuators 152 (e.g., one or more of an on button, an off button, a raise button, a lower button, or a preset button). The battery-powered remote control device 150 can transmit an RF signal 106 in response to the actuation of one or more of the actuators 152. The battery-powered remote control device 150 can be handheld. The battery-powered remote control device 150 can be mounted vertically on a wall or supported on a base for mounting on a desktop. Examples of the battery-powered remote control device are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 8,330,638, titled "WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED REMOTE CONTROL HAVING MULTIPLE MOUNTING MEANS," issued on December 11, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0286940, titled "CONTROL DEVICE HAVING A NIGHTLIGHT," published on November 15, 2012, both of which are commonly assigned, and the entire disclosure of the patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0070] The remote control device 150 can be a wireless device capable of controlling the load control device via wireless communication. The remote control device 150 can be attached to or separated from the wall. Examples of the remote control device are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,248,919, titled "LIGHTING CONTROL DEVICE," issued on September 28, 1993; U.S. Patent No. 8,471,779, titled "WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED REMOTE CONTROL WITH LABEL SERVING AS ANTENNA ELEMENT," issued on June 25, 2013; and U.S. Patent No. 9,679,696, titled "WIRELESS LOAD CONTROL DEVICE," issued on June 13, 2017, and the entire disclosure of the patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0071] The occupancy sensor 160 can be configured to detect occupancy and / or vacancy conditions in the space in which the load control system 100 is installed. The occupancy sensor 160 can transmit a digital message to the load control device via the RF communication signal 106 in response to detecting an occupancy or vacancy condition. The occupancy sensor 160 can operate as a vacancy sensor such that a digital message is transmitted in response to detecting a vacancy condition (e.g., no digital message is transmitted in response to detecting an occupancy condition). The occupancy sensor 160 can enter an association mode and can transmit an association message via the RF communication signal 106 in response to actuation of a button on the occupancy sensor 160. Examples of RF load control systems with occupancy and vacancy sensors are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 8,009,042, titled "RADIO-FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM WITH OCCUPANCY SENSING," issued August 30, 2011; U.S. Patent No. 8,199,010, titled "METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING A WIRELESS SENSOR," issued June 12, 2012; and U.S. Patent No. 8,228,184, titled "BATTERY-POWERED OCCUPANCY SENSOR," issued July 24, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] The daylight sensor 170 can be configured to measure the total light intensity in the space in which the load control system 100 is installed. The daylight sensor 170 can transmit a digital message including the measured light intensity via the RF communication signal 106 to control the load control device in response to the measured light intensity. The daylight sensor 170 can enter an association mode and can transmit an association message via the RF communication signal 106 in response to actuation of a button on the daylight sensor 170. Examples of RF load control systems with daylight sensors are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 8,410,706, titled "METHOD OF CALIBRATING A DAYLIGHT SENSOR," issued April 2, 2013; and U.S. Patent No. 8,451,116, titled "WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED DAYLIGHT SENSOR," issued May 28, 2013, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0073] The electric curtain 130 can be installed in front of a window for controlling the amount of daylight entering the space in which the load control system 100 is installed. The electric curtain 130 can include, for example, a cellular shade, a roller shade, a drapery, a roman shade, a venetian blind, a persian shade, a folding curtain, a tensioned roller shade system, or other suitable electric window covering. The electric curtain 130 can include a motor drive unit 132 for adjusting the position of the covering material 134 of the electric curtain 130 to control the amount of daylight entering the space. The motor drive unit 132 of the electric curtain 130 can have an RF receiver and an antenna mounted on or extending from the motor drive unit 132 of the electric curtain 130. The motor drive unit 132 can respond to a digital message to increase or decrease the level of the covering material 134. The motor drive unit 132 of the electric curtain 130 can be battery-powered or can receive power from an external direct current (DC) power source. Examples of battery-powered electric curtains are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 8,950,461, titled "MOTORIZED WINDOW TREATMENT," issued on February 10, 2015, and assigned to the same assignee; and U.S. Patent No. 9,115,537, titled "BATTERY-POWERED ROLLERSHADE SYSTEM," issued on August 25, 2015, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0074] The digital message transmitted by the controller device can include commands and / or identification information, such as a serial number (e.g., a unique identifier) associated with the transmitting controller device. During the configuration process of the load control system 100, each of the controller devices can be associated with the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, and / or the electric curtain 130 such that the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, and / or the electric curtain 130 can respond to the digital message transmitted by the controller device via the RF signal 106. Examples of associating wireless control devices during the configuration process are described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0111491, titled "RADIO-FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM," published on May 15, 2008, and assigned to the same assignee; and U.S. Patent No. 9,368,025, titled "TWO-PART LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM MOUNTABLE TO A SINGLE ELECTRICAL WALLBOX," issued on June 14, 2016, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] The load control system 100 may include a hub device 180 (e.g., a system bridge and / or a system controller), which is configured to be capable of communicating with a network 182 (e.g., a wireless or wired local area network (LAN)). The hub device 180 may be connected to a router via a wired digital communication link 184 (e.g., an Ethernet communication link). The router may allow communication with the network 182, e.g., to access the Internet. The hub device 180 may be wirelessly connected to the network 182, e.g., using wireless technologies such as technology, cellular technology, etc. The hub device 180 may be configured to transmit communication signals (e.g., RF signals 106) to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and / or the motorized curtain 130 to control the devices in response to digital messages received from an external device via the network 182. The hub device 180 may communicate via one or more types of RF communication signals. The hub device 180 may be configured to transmit and / or receive RF signals 106 (e.g., using NFC; or a dedicated communication channel, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM etc.). The hub device 180 may be configured to transmit digital messages via the network 182 to provide data (e.g., status information) to an external device.

[0076] The RF signals 106 may be transmitted via one or more protocols. For example, the remote control device 116 and the remote control device 150 may transmit digital messages to the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 via another protocol different from other devices (e.g., etc.). For example, the occupancy sensor 160, the daylight sensor 170, and / or the motorized curtain 130 may communicate via a dedicated communication channel such as CLEAR CONNECT TM etc. The hub device 180 may format digital communications using an appropriate protocol for the device. The hub device 180 may communicate using multiple protocols.

[0077] The hub device 180 may operate as a central controller of the load control system 100 and / or relay digital messages between the control devices (e.g., lighting devices, motorized curtains, etc.) of the load control system and / or the network 182. The hub device 180 may receive digital messages from a controller device and configure the digital messages for transmission to a load control device. For example, the hub device 180 may configure multicast messages and / or unicast messages for transmission, as described herein. The hub device 180 may be at the site of the load control system 100 or at a remote location. Although the hub device 180 is shown as a single device, the load control system 100 may include multiple hubs and / or its functions may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0078] The load control system 100 may include a network device 190, such as a smart phone (e.g., smart phone, smart phone, or smart phone), a personal computer, a laptop computer, a wireless-enabled media device (e.g., an MP3 player, a gaming device, or a television), a tablet device (e.g., a handheld computing device), or a television that supports wireless communication, or any other suitable network communication or Internet protocol-enabled device. The network device 190 is operable to transmit digital messages in one or more Internet protocol packets to the hub device 180 via an RF signal 108 (either directly or via a network 182). For example, the network device 190 may transmit the RF signal 108 to the hub device 180 via a communication link, a communication link, a communication link, a near field communication (NFC) link, a cellular communication link, a television white space (TVWS) communication link, or any combination thereof. Different protocols and / or radio frequency bands may be used to transmit the RF signal 108 than those used for the RF signal 106. For example, the RF signal 108 may be configured for Wi-Fi communication or cellular communication, while the RF signal 106 may be configured for Thread or a proprietary communication channel, such as CLEAR CONNECT TM . In another example, the RF signal 108 and the RF signal 106 may be the same. Examples of load control systems operable to communicate with network devices on a network are described in more detail in the commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,271,407, titled "LOAD CONTROL DEVICE HAVING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY," issued on April 23, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0079] The network device 190 may include a visual display 192. The visual display 192 may include a touch screen, which may include, for example, a capacitive touchpad displaced above the visual display such that the visual display may display soft buttons that may be actuated by a user. In addition to the visual display 192, the network device 190 may also include a plurality of hard buttons, such as physical buttons (not shown). The network device 190 may download a product control application to allow a user of the network device 190 to control the load control system 100. In response to actuation of the displayed soft buttons and / or hard buttons, the network device 190 may transmit digital messages to the load control device and / or the hub device 180 via the wireless communications described herein.

[0080] The hub device 180 and / or the network device 190 may be used to program and configure the operation of the load control system 100. An example of the configuration process of a wireless load control system is described in more detail in the commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,027,127, titled "COMMISSIONING LOAD CONTROL SYSTEMS", issued on July 17, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0081] When the hub device 180 and / or other control devices are implemented in the load control system 100, the remote control device 116 may receive an indication. The remote control device 116 may be associated with other controller devices (such as the remote control device 150, the occupancy sensor 160, the daylight sensor 170, the network device 190, etc.), or may otherwise be notified when a controller device is associated with another device in the load control system 100 (such as the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 or the hub device 180). The remote control device 116 may be associated with the hub device 180, or may otherwise be notified when the hub device 180 is implemented into the system 100 (such as via a message from the hub device 180, a notification of the association from the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with the hub device 180, etc.).

[0082] The remote control device 116 can operate to provide different types of feedback (e.g., advanced feedback or simple feedback) based on information about the associated device. For example, the remote control device 116 can provide different feedback on the visible indicator 119 when associated with a master device (such as the hub device 180) or another master device than when not associated with a master device. When associated with the hub device 180 that can provide the status of the load control device to the remote control device 116, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback on the visible indicator 119. When not associated with the hub device 180, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback on the visible indicator 119.

[0083] The remote control device 116 can provide feedback via the visible indicator 119 in different feedback modes based on whether the remote control device 116 is associated with the hub device 180 or another master device (such as one of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122). The remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback when associated with a master device and simple feedback when not associated with a master device. When the remote control device 116 is associated with the master lighting device, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback on the visible indicator 119 and display the status of the master lighting device on the visible indicator 119 as feedback. Since the master device can synchronize the status of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, the remote control device 116 can provide advanced feedback indicating the intensity levels of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 in the synchronization group. Additionally, the master device can collect and store the intensity levels of the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 and can decide the level to be displayed for advanced feedback if the lighting devices are not synchronized. When the remote control device 116 is not associated with a master device, the remote control device 116 can provide simple feedback that illuminates the entire visible indicator 119 to different levels when the intensity of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 is raised or lowered, or when the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 are turned on or off.

[0084] Although the remote control device 116 can operate in the load control system 100 together with other controller devices, the other controller devices may not be associated with the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 associated with the remote control device 116. Since the other controller devices may not be associated with the group of lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122, the other controller devices may not be able to switch the on / off state of the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. The remote control device 116 can determine whether the other controller devices are associated with the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 by querying the associated devices from the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122. Each lighting device 112a, 112b, 122 can respond with a unique identifier of the device associated with the device. The unique identifier can indicate the device or device type associated with the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 (e.g., remote control device, occupancy sensor, daylight sensor, network device, hub device, etc.).

[0085] Figure 2 An exemplary control device 200 is depicted, which can be deployed as the remote control device 116 in the load control system 100. The lighting control system 100 can include one or more electrical loads, such as lighting loads 102, 104. The control device 200 can include a user interface 210 (e.g., user input device) and a panel 212. The user interface 202 can include a rotatable portion 214 that can rotate relative to the panel 212 for controlling one or more characteristics of the lighting load controlled by the control device (e.g., adjusting the intensity and / or color of the lighting load). The user interface 210 can also include an actuating portion 216 having a front surface 218 that can be pressed towards the panel 212 for turning on and off the lighting load (e.g., switching the lighting load). The control device 200 can include a base portion 220 for rotatably supporting the rotatable portion 214. The actuating portion 216 can be received in a central opening (e.g., circular opening) defined by the rotatable portion 214. When the actuating portion 216 is actuated, the actuating portion 216 can move through the central opening of the rotatable portion 214 (e.g., move towards the panel 212 along an axis perpendicular to the panel) to actuate an internal switch (not shown). The actuating portion 216 can return (e.g., move away from the panel 212 along an axis perpendicular to the panel) to an idle position (e.g., as Figure 2 shown).

[0086] The control device 200 can be configured to transmit one or more wireless communication signals to the lighting devices (e.g., lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122 of the load control system 100), such as Figure 1A and Figure 1BRF signal 106). The control device 200 may include a wireless communication circuit (e.g., an RF transceiver or transmitter (not shown)), via which one or more wireless communication signals may be transmitted and / or received. The control device 200 may be configured to transmit digital messages (e.g., including commands for controlling the lighting device) via the wireless communication signal.

[0087] For example, when the actuation portion 216 is actuated (e.g., pressed into the panel 212), the control device 200 may be configured to transmit one or more wireless communication signals including control data for turning on and off the lighting device (e.g., switching the lighting device). The control device 200 may be configured to transmit a command for switching the lighting device (e.g., from off to on, or vice versa) in response to the actuation of the actuation portion 216. Additionally, the control device 200 may be configured to transmit a command to turn on the lighting device in response to the actuation of the actuation portion 216 (e.g., if the control device 200 has information indicating that the lighting device is currently off). The control device 200 may be configured to transmit a command to turn off the lighting device in response to the actuation of the actuation portion 216 (e.g., if the control unit has information indicating that the lighting device is currently on). The control device 200 may be configured to transmit a command to turn on the lighting device to the maximum power level (e.g., turn on the lighting device to full intensity) in response to a double click of the actuation portion 216 (e.g., two consecutive actuations in quick succession).

[0088] When the rotation portion 214 rotates while the actuation portion 216 is in the idle position (e.g., the front surface 218 of the actuation portion 216 is in the first plane), the control device 200 may be configured to transmit one or more wireless communication signals including control data to increase the intensity of the lighting device in response to a clockwise rotation of the rotation portion 214, and transmit a command to decrease the intensity of the lighting device in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the rotation portion 214. Additionally, when the rotation portion 214 rotates while the actuation portion 216 is pressed into the panel 212 (e.g., the front surface 218 of the actuation portion 216 is in the second plane), the control device 200 may be configured to transmit one or more wireless communication signals including control data to adjust the color (e.g., color temperature) of the lighting device in response to a clockwise rotation and a counterclockwise rotation of the rotation portion 214.

[0089] When the lighting device is turned on, the control device 200 can be configured to reduce the power level of the lighting device to a low-end intensity (e.g., minimum intensity) in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the rotating portion 214, and can turn off the lighting device only in response to actuation of the actuating portion 216. The control device 200 can also be configured to be in a spin-to-off mode, in which the control device 200 can turn off the lighting device after the power level of the lighting device (e.g., the intensity of the lighting device) is controlled to a minimum level (e.g., without actuation of the actuating portion) in response to a counterclockwise rotation of the rotating portion 214. When the lighting device is turned off and the rotating portion 214 is rotated clockwise, the control device 200 can be configured to adjust the intensity of the lighting device to a level determined according to how much the rotating portion 214 is rotated (e.g., the angular distance by which the rotating portion is rotated). When the lighting device is turned off and the rotating portion 214 is rotated counterclockwise, the control device 200 can be configured to adjust the intensity of the lighting device to a low-end intensity (e.g., independent of how much the rotating portion 214 is rotated).

[0090] The front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216 can be configured to be illuminated to provide feedback to a user of the control device 200. For example, the front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216 can be illuminated by one or more light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) located inside the control device 200. When each of the actuating portion 216 and / or the rotating portion 214 is in an idle position, the front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216 may not be illuminated. For example, when the actuating portion 216 has been actuated and / or the rotating portion 214 has been rotated, the front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216 can be illuminated to provide simple feedback. The front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216 can be illuminated to provide simple feedback to indicate that the control device 200 has detected rotation of the rotating portion 214 and / or actuation of the actuating portion 216, and can respond to the actuation, for example, by transmitting a wireless signal to the lighting device. Examples of control devices that can provide simple and advanced feedback are described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0116040, titled "CONTROLLING GROUPS OF ELECTRICAL LOADS," and commonly assigned, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0091] In some load control systems, a corresponding control device can be positioned such that the lighting device paired with the remote control device is not visible to a user interacting with the control device. As a result, the user may not perceive or understand the changes caused by user interface events at the control device, which can lead to inefficient interaction between the user and the control device. For example, even when the lighting device is at maximum intensity (e.g., 100% intensity), the user can rotate the rotatable portion in a clockwise direction (e.g., to increase the intensity of the lighting device). Similarly, even when the lighting device is at minimum intensity (e.g., 0% intensity), the user can rotate the rotatable portion in a counterclockwise direction (e.g., to decrease the intensity of the lighting device). To provide an indication of the current and / or future intensity of the lighting device to the user, the control device can be configured to provide feedback (e.g., simple feedback and / or advanced feedback) to the user in response to a user interface event.

[0092] Figures 3A to 3D A control device 200 that provides different forms of feedback (e.g., simple feedback) is shown. As Figures 3A to 3C shown, the control device 200 can be configured to provide a visible indicator by energizing a light source (e.g., an LED) within the control device 200 to illuminate an illuminated portion (e.g., Figures 3A to 3C the corresponding illuminated portions 230a - 230c shown) of the front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216. Referring to Figures 3A to 3D , the visual indicator can be used to provide feedback on the current and / or future intensity of the lighting device paired with the control device 200. For example, Figure 3A the illuminated portion 230a of the front surface 218 shown can be located near the top of the actuating portion 216. As Figure 3A shown, the illuminated portion 230a of the front surface 218 can be illuminated with a diffused (e.g., blurred) aperture. For example, in response to actuation of the actuating portion 216, the illuminated portion 230a can be illuminated with a diffused aperture. Additionally, Figure 3B the illuminated portion 230b of the front surface 218 shown in Figure 3B can be located near the bottom of the actuating portion 216. The illuminated portion 230b of the front surface 218 can be irradiated with a sharp aperture as Figure 3C shown. Further,

[0093] The illuminated portions 230a - 230c of the front surface 218 can be illuminated for a certain period of time (e.g., a fixed period of time) after the actuation of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216 is first detected, and then not illuminated after the expiration of that period. For example, the illuminated portions 230a - 230c of the front surface 218 can be continuously illuminated (e.g., at a single intensity) during that period. Figure 3E An example graph of the intensity of the illuminated portions 230a - 230c versus time is shown after the actuation of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216. For example, the illuminated portions 230a - 230c can quickly fade to a predetermined intensity L0 at a first rate, remain at that predetermined intensity L0, and then fade to zero at a second rate slower than the first rate. The period T1 during which the fade - in occurs can be shorter than the period T3 during which the fade - out occurs. The intensity of the illuminated portions 230a - 230c can remain at the predetermined intensity L0 for a period T1, which can be, for example, a fixed period of time. Additionally, the illuminated portions 230a - 230c of the front surface 218 can remain illuminated (e.g., be continuously illuminated) when the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216 is actuated, and then not illuminated after the actuation ends. For example, the fade - in can be shown at the start of the actuation of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216, and / or the fade - out can be shown at the release of the rotating portion and / or the actuating portion. The period T1 during which the fade - in occurs and the period T3 during which the fade - out occurs can be fixed periods of time, while the period T1 (e.g., during which the intensity of the illuminated portions 230a - 230c can remain at the predetermined intensity L0) can vary depending on how long the actuation of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216 lasts.

[0094] The illuminated portions 230a - 230c of the front surface 218 can be illuminated with an animation (e.g., a predetermined illumination pattern within a certain period of time). For example, the animation can be a "heartbeat" animation. Figure 3F An example graph of the intensity of the illuminated portions 230a - 230c versus time is shown to generate an animation. For example, the intensity of the illuminated portions 230a - 230c can quickly increase to a first intensity L1, quickly decrease to a second intensity L2, quickly increase to a third intensity L3, and then quickly turn off.

[0095] In response to different rotations of the rotating part 214 and / or actuation of the actuating part 216, the illuminating parts 230a - 230c can be illuminated with different types of illumination. For example, if the actuating part 216 is actuated to turn on or off the lighting load, the illuminating parts 230a - 230c can blink, and if the actuating part 216 is actuated to configure the control device (e.g., associate the control device with the lighting load), the illuminating parts can strobe. Additionally, the illuminating parts 230a - 230c can be illuminated with different types of illumination depending on which of the rotating part 214 and the actuating part 216 is currently actuated or rotated.

[0096] When the rotating part 214 is rotated to adjust the color temperature of the lighting device (e.g., when the actuating part 216 is pressed into the panel 212 and the front surface 218 of the actuating part 216 is in the second plane), the illuminating parts 230a - 230c can be illuminated with different types of illumination. For example, when the rotating part 214 is rotated clockwise to increase the color temperature towards the cold white color temperature T CW (e.g., cold white color temperature limit), the illuminating parts 230a - 230b can be illuminated with a first color (e.g., blue or cold white); and when the rotating part 214 is rotated counterclockwise to decrease the color temperature towards the warm white color temperature T WW (e.g., warm white color temperature limit), they are illuminated with a second color (e.g., red or warm white). Additionally, when the rotating part 214 is rotated to adjust the color temperature of the lighting device, the color of the illuminating parts 230a - 230b can be adjusted. Furthermore, when the rotating part 214 is rotated to control the lighting device to a color in the red - green - blue (RGB) color space (e.g., any color), the illuminating parts 230a - 230c can be illuminated with different colors. For example, when the rotating part 214 is rotated while the actuating part 216 is pressed into the panel 212, the control device 200 can adjust the color of the illuminating parts 230a - 230c, and when the actuating part 216 is released, the selected final color is transmitted.

[0097] The illuminated portions 230a - 230c can be illuminated to indicate that the lighting device has reached a limit, such as a high-end intensity. For example, when the lighting device has reached a high-end brightness, the control device 200 can be configured to provide a limit indication (e.g., a limit animation, such as a high-end animation), such as causing the illuminated portions 230a - 230c to blink or flutter (e.g., turn on and off rapidly many times within a certain time period). The control device 200 can be configured to receive a message, for example, including an indication that the lighting device is at a high-end intensity. The control device 200 can be configured to track and / or estimate the intensity of the lighting device when the control device fails to receive feedback on the intensity level of the lighting device. Additionally, the control device 200 can be configured to track and / or estimate the intensity of the lighting device in response to the rotation of the rotating portion 214, and provide a limit indication when the tracked intensity of the lighting device reaches a high-end intensity. Furthermore, the control device 200 can be configured to provide an indication that the lighting device has reached a high-end intensity, for example, when it has not received any wireless communication signal indicating that the lighting device is at a high-end intensity and the rotating portion 214 has rotated (e.g., continuously rotated) a predetermined threshold amount (e.g., approximately 210°). For example, the rotation of the rotating portion 214 by a predetermined threshold amount can cause the intensity level of the lighting device to change from a low-end intensity to a high-end intensity. The control device 200 can also indicate that the lighting device has reached another limit, such as the low-end intensity and / or color temperature limit of the lighting device.

[0098] The illuminated portions 230a - 230c can be illuminated in different ways and / or in different colors to indicate different conditions, the rotation of the rotating portion 214, and / or the actuation of the actuating portion 216. For example, in response to the actuation of the actuating portion 216, if the battery of the control device 200 has appropriate energy, the illuminated portions 230a - 230c can be illuminated white (or blue), and can be illuminated red to indicate a low battery state (e.g., to indicate that the battery does not have appropriate energy). Additionally, a portion different from the illuminated portions 230a - 230c of the actuating portion 216 can be illuminated to indicate a low battery condition. For example, when the illuminated portion 230a is illuminated at the top of the actuating portion 216 in response to the actuation of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216, an indication can be provided at the bottom of the actuating portion 216 to indicate a low battery condition. The control device for providing a low battery condition indication is described in more detail in the co-owned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0354012, titled "USER INTERFACE FOR A CONTROL DEVICE", published on December 7, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0099] In addition, the control device 200 can provide simple feedback by irradiating light from the rear side of the control device 200. For example, the light can be emitted from the back surface of the control device 200 to provide an illuminated area 240 on the front surface 242 of the panel 212 that surrounds at least a portion or the entire perimeter of the rotating portion 214 of the control device, as Figure 3D shown. The light can be emitted from the gap between the control device 200 and the base portion 220. Additionally, the base portion 220 can be at least partially transparent or translucent so that the light emitted from the rear side of the control device is irradiated outside between the control device 200 and the panel 212.

[0100] The light irradiated on the illuminated area 240 can be controlled as described above for the illuminated portions 230a - 230c of the front surface 218 of the actuating portion 216, as Figures 3A to 3C shown (for example, it can be continuously illuminated, flashed, or strobed for a certain period of time, as an animation, etc.). In response to different actuations of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216, and / or depending on which of the rotating portion 214 and the actuating portion 216 is currently being actuated, the illuminated area 240 can be illuminated with different types of illumination. Additionally, the illuminated area 240 can be illuminated with different colors and / or different portions of the perimeter surrounding the rotating portion 214 can be illuminated to indicate different conditions and / or actuations of the rotating portion 214 and / or the actuating portion 216. For example, in response to the actuation of the actuating portion 216, if the battery of the control device 200 has sufficient energy, the entire perimeter surrounding the rotating portion 214 can be illuminated white (or blue), and a portion of the perimeter surrounding the rotating portion 214 (e.g., near the bottom of the rotating portion 214) can be illuminated red to indicate a low - power condition (e.g., indicating that the battery does not have sufficient energy).

[0101] Figure 4 Another exemplary control device 200′ is depicted, which can be deployed as the remote control device 116 in the load control system 100. The control device 200′ can be very similar to Figure 2 、 Figures 3A to 3Dcontrol device 200. However, the control device 200' may include a visible indicator 250 (e.g., a light bar or a light ring), which can be illuminated to provide feedback (e.g., simple feedback and advanced feedback). The visible indicator 250 can be used to provide feedback on the current and / or future intensity of the lighting device paired with the control device 200'. The visible indicator 250 can be located at various positions of the control device 200', such as between the rotating part 214 and the actuating part 216 (e.g., attached to the perimeter of the actuating part 216). The visible indicator 250 can extend along the perimeter of the rotating part 214 and / or the actuating part 216, and / or be configured to move with the actuating part 216 (e.g., when the actuating part is actuated). The visible indicator 250 can have different shapes and / or other geometric characteristics. For example, the visible indicator 250 can form a complete or partial ring, the visible indicator 250 can be linear (e.g., substantially linear), the visible indicator 250 can have an irregular shape, such as an irregular curve or a twist and / or a similar shape. As referred to herein, a ring can be circular or curved, but this is not required. A complete ring can form a circle (e.g., as Figure 4 shown), an ellipse, a rectangle, a triangle, a star, a diamond, etc., and a partial ring can include one or more parts of the above structures. The visible indicator 250 can be illuminated by a plurality of light sources (e.g., LEDs) arranged in a circular pattern inside the control device 200'.

[0102] Figures 5A to 5B shows an example of the control device 200' providing simple feedback on the visible indicator 250. As Figure 5B shown, the control device 200' can be configured to provide feedback after the control device 200' has been activated. Additionally, as described herein, the feedback provided by the visible indicator 250 can indicate to the user interacting with the control device 200' the current and / or future intensity of the lighting device paired with the control device 200'. For example, the control device 200' can be configured to provide feedback when a user near the control device is detected and / or when a user interface event is detected on the user interface of the control device 200'. The user interface event can be the actuation of the actuating part 216 or the rotation of the rotating part 214. The feedback can indicate that in response to the activation, the control device 200' is transmitting a wireless communication signal (e.g., an RF signal). The control device 200' can keep the visible indicator 250 illuminated during the duration of the event that triggers the feedback (e.g., when the rotating part 214 is rotated). The control device 200' can be configured to continue illuminating the visible indicator 250 for several seconds (e.g., 1 to 2 seconds) after the event, and then turn off the visible indicator 250, e.g., to save battery life.

[0103] The visible indicator 250 may be extinguished (e.g., as shown in Figure 5A ) to provide feedback that the load control device associated therewith is turned off. When the load control device associated with the visible indicator 250 is turned on or a user interface event is detected, the LED illuminating the visible indicator 250 may be turned on to full intensity (e.g., as shown in Figure 5B ). For example, the lighting device may be turned on in response to a switching event identified by actuating the actuating portion 216 or rotating the rotating portion 214. The LED illuminating the visible indicator 250 may be turned on to full intensity to reflect the intensity level of the lighting device controlled by the control device 200'. When the actuating portion 216 is actuated (e.g., pressed), the visible indicator 250 may flash between the two states shown in Figure 5A and Figure 5B to provide feedback that the actuating portion 1104 has been pressed and the control device 200' is operating.

[0104] When the rotating portion 214 is rotated, the visible indicator 250 may be illuminated to provide feedback in a different manner (e.g., different intensity and / or color). For example, as shown in Figure 5B , when the rotating portion 214 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise (e.g., to increase or decrease the intensity of the lighting device), the visible indicator 250 may be fully illuminated and maintained at the maximum light bar intensity L LB-MAX (e.g., 100%) to provide a simple feedback. For example, when the rotating portion 214 is being rotated clockwise (e.g., to increase the intensity of the lighting device), the visible indicator 250 may be illuminated to a first intermediate level light bar intensity L LB-MAX less than the maximum light bar intensity L LB-MID1 (e.g., 80%) to provide a simple feedback that the rotating portion 214 is being rotated. For example, when the rotating portion 214 is being rotated counterclockwise (e.g., to decrease the intensity of the lighting device), the visible indicator 250 may be illuminated to a second intermediate level light bar intensity L LB-MID1 (and thus less than the maximum light bar intensity L LB-MAX ) less than the first intermediate level light bar intensity L LB-MID2 (e.g., 40%) to provide a simple feedback that the rotating portion 214 is being rotated.

[0105] Similarly, the visible indicator 250 can be illuminated with different colors to indicate different user inputs and / or the status of the power load or load control device. For example, the visible indicator 250 can be illuminated with different colors to indicate that the intensity of the lighting load is increasing or decreasing, the shading level is increasing or decreasing, and / or the volume level is increasing or decreasing. When increasing the lighting intensity, the visible indicator 250 can be illuminated red, and when decreasing the lighting intensity, it can be illuminated blue. Additionally, the visible indicator 250 can be illuminated in response to actuation of the actuation portion 216 to indicate that the power load is being switched on or off. For example, when the lighting load is switched on or off, the visible indicator 250 can be illuminated to display an animation to provide a simple feedback that the actuation portion 216 has been actuated (e.g., as Figure 3F shown).

[0106] The visible indicator 250 can be illuminated to indicate that the lighting device has reached a limit, such as a high-end intensity. For example, the control device 200' can be configured to provide a limit indication (e.g., a limit animation) by causing the visible indicator 250 to blink or flutter (e.g., turn on and off rapidly many times within a certain time period) when the lighting device has reached the high-end brightness. The control device 200' can be configured to determine that the lighting device is at the high-end intensity in response to a received wireless communication signal. Additionally, the control device 200' can be configured to track and / or estimate the intensity of the lighting device in response to rotation of the rotation portion 214 and provide a limit indication when the tracked intensity of the lighting device reaches the high-end intensity. Further, the control device 200' can be configured to provide an indication that the lighting device has reached the high-end intensity when the rotation portion 214 has rotated (e.g., continuously rotated) a predetermined threshold amount (e.g., approximately 210°). For example, rotation of the rotation portion 214 by a predetermined threshold amount can cause the intensity level of the lighting device to change from a low-end intensity to a high-end intensity. The control device 200' can also indicate that the lighting device has reached another limit, such as the low-end intensity and / or color temperature limit of the lighting device.

[0107] The visible indicator 250 can be illuminated to further indicate the amount of electrical power supplied to the lighting device. The control device 200' can be configured to illuminate portions of the visible indicator 250 to provide advanced feedback, such as to indicate the intensity of the lighting device controlled by the control device 200'. For example, instead of illuminating the entire light bar of the visible indicator 250, the control device 200' can turn on one or more light sources in the light source to illuminate a portion of the visible indicator 250, and adjust the length of the illuminated portion according to the control applied by the user. For example, when the light bar of the visible indicator 250 is configured to have a circular shape, in response to adjustment of the user interface event and / or the state of the electrical load, the illuminated portion can expand or contract around the circumference of the light bar. The control device 200' can adjust the intensity of the LEDs at the endpoints of the illuminated portion of the visible indicator 250 to provide adjustment of the endpoints of the illuminated portion, as described in more detail herein.

[0108] Figures 6A to 6C FIG. shows a control device 200' that provides an example of advanced feedback on the visible indicator 250. The feedback provided by the visible indicator 250 can indicate to the user interacting with the control device 200' the current and / or future intensity of the lighting device paired with the control device 200'. For example, Figures 6A to 6C FIG. shows the illuminated portion 260 of the visible indicator 250 expanding and contracting in one direction to provide an indication of the intensity of the lighting device (e.g., a single indication). For example, the control device 200' can include a plurality of light sources (e.g., LEDs) configured to illuminate the visible indicator 250. In response to actuation of the control device 200 to adjust the intensity of the lighting device, the control device 200' (e.g., the control circuit is included therein) can illuminate a subset of the light sources such that the illuminated portion 260 of the visible indicator 250 is illuminated to indicate the intensity corresponding to the actuation. The illuminated portion 260 can start from a starting point 262 (e.g., at the bottom of the visible indicator 250 as shown in Figure 6A FIG.) and end at an end point 264 (e.g., along the circumference of the visible indicator 250). The length and / or intensity of the illuminated portion 260 of the visible indicator 250 can indicate the intensity of the lighting device. The subset of light sources can be illuminated to a common intensity uniformly. Alternatively, the subset of light sources can be illuminated to different intensities.

[0109] The control circuit of the control device 200' can be configured to increase the length of the illuminated portion 260 (e.g., move the end point 264 of the illuminated portion in the clockwise direction as shown in Figures 6A to 6C FIG.) when the intensity of the lighting device is increased. The control circuit can be configured to decrease the length of the illuminated portion 260 (e.g., move the end point 264 of the illuminated portion in the counterclockwise direction as shown in Figures 6A to 6Cas shown). In this way, the illuminated portion 260 can expand and contract as the intensity of the lighting device is adjusted. For example, the visible indicator 250 can be illuminated to indicate that the intensity of the lighting device is approximately 30%, as Figure 6A shown, approximately 60%, as Figure 6B shown, and approximately 90%, as Figure 6C shown. When the lighting device is at a high-end intensity (e.g., approximately full intensity), the entire visible indicator 250 can be illuminated. When the lighting device has reached the high-end intensity, the visible indicator 250 can also be illuminated to provide a limit indication. For example, the control device 200' can be configured to cause the visible indicator 250 to blink or flutter (e.g., turn on and off rapidly many times within a certain time period) when the lighting device has reached the high-end intensity. When the control device 200' is configured to control multiple lighting devices and set the respective light intensities of the multiple lighting loads to different values, the control device 200' can be configured to illuminate the visible indicator 250 to indicate the average value of the respective intensities of the lighting devices, indicate the intensity of the lighting device closest to the control device 200', etc.

[0110] The control device 200' can be configured to indicate the last known intensity of the lighting load when a user input to turn on the lighting load is received. For example, before the lighting load is turned off, the control device 200' can store the intensity of the lighting load in the memory of the control device 200', while rapidly decreasing the length of the illuminated portion 260 from the end point 264 to the start point 262. Subsequently, when the control device 200' is actuated to turn on the lighting load again, the control device 200' can illuminate the visible indicator 250 to rapidly increase the length of the illuminated portion 260 to correspond to the previously stored intensity of the lighting load. An example of a control device with a light bar is described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0354011, titled "USER INTERFACE FOR A CONTROL DEVICE", filed on December 7, 2017, and commonly assigned, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0111] Figure 7A and Figure 7B are a front exploded perspective view and a rear exploded perspective view of an exemplary remote control device 310, which can be deployed as Figure 1A and Figure 1B the remote control device 116 in the load control system 100 shown, Figure 2 the control device 200 shown, and / or Figure 4The control device 200' as shown. The remote control device 310 can be configured to be mounted above an actuator of a standard light switch 312 (e.g., the switching actuator of a single-pole single-throw holding mechanical switch). The remote control device 310 can be mounted above an existing panel 316, which is mounted (e.g., via panel screws 318) to the light switch 312. The remote control device 310 can include a base portion 320 and a control unit 330 that can be operatively coupled to the base portion 320. The control unit 330 can be supported by the base portion 320 and can include a rotating portion 332 (e.g., an annular rotating portion) that can rotate relative to the base portion 320.

[0112] As Figure 7A shown, the control unit 330 can be separated from the base portion 320. The base portion 320 can be attached (e.g., fixedly attached) to the switching actuator 314 and can be configured to hold the switching actuator 314 in the open position. The switching actuator 314 can be received through a switching actuator opening 322 in the base portion 320. A screw 324 can be tightened to attach (e.g., fixedly attach) the base portion 320 to the switching actuator 314. In this regard, the base portion 320 can be configured to prevent a user from inadvertently switching the switching actuator 314 to the closed position when the remote control device 310 is attached to the light switch 312. When the control unit 330 is coupled to the base portion 320, the rotating portion 332 can rotate around the base portion 320 in opposite directions (e.g., in the clockwise direction and / or the counterclockwise direction). The base portion 320 can be configured to be mounted above the switching actuator 314 of the switch 312 such that the rotational movement of the rotating portion 332 does not change the operating state of the switching actuator 314 (e.g., the switching actuator 314 can be held in the open position to maintain the function of the remote control device 310).

[0113] The control unit 330 may include an actuation portion 334. The actuation portion 334 may in turn include a part or all of the front surface of the control unit 330. For example, the control unit 330 may have a circular surface within an opening defined by the rotating portion 332. The actuation portion 334 may include a part of the circular surface (e.g., the central region of the circular surface) or approximately the entire circular surface. The actuation portion 334 may be received in a central circular opening defined by the rotating portion 332. In an example, the actuation portion 334 may be configured to move towards the lamp switch 312 (e.g., through the central opening of the rotating portion 332) to actuate a mechanical switch (not shown) inside the control unit 330, which will be described in more detail below. When the actuation portion 334 is in the idle position, the front surface of the actuation portion 334 may be in a first plane, which may be parallel to the front surface of the base portion 320. The rotating portion 332 and / or the actuation portion 334 may be pushed towards the base portion 320 so that the front surface of the actuation portion 334 is in a second plane, which is parallel to the front surface of the panel and closer to the panel than the first plane. Additionally, the rotating portion 332 may be connected to the actuation portion 334 and may move together with the actuation portion to actuate the mechanical switch when the actuation portion 332 is actuated.

[0114] The control unit 330 may be released from the base portion 320. For example, a control unit release tab 326 may be provided on the base portion 320. By actuating the control unit release tab 326 (e.g., pushing upwards towards the base portion or pulling downwards away from the base portion), the user may remove the control unit 330 from the base portion 320. The control unit 330 may include one or more clamps 338, which may be held by corresponding locking members 328 connected to the control unit release tab 326 when the base portion 320 is in the locked position. When the control unit release tab 326 is actuated (e.g., pushed upwards towards the base portion or pulled downwards away from the base portion) to place the base portion 320 in the unlocked position, the one or more clamps 338 may be released from the corresponding locking members 328 of the base portion 320. In an example, the locking member 328 may be spring-biased to the locked position and may automatically return to the locked position after actuating and releasing the control unit release tab 326. In an example, the locking member 328 may not be spring-biased, in which case the control unit release tab 326 may be actuated to return the base portion 320 to the locked position.

[0115] Additionally, the control unit 330 may be mounted on the base portion 320 without adjusting the base portion 320 to the unlocked position. For example, one or more clamps 338 of the control unit 330 may be configured to flex around the corresponding locking members 328 of the base portion and snap into place so that the control unit 330 is fixedly attached to the base portion.

[0116] The control unit 330 can be released from the base portion 320 to access one or more batteries 340 through the rear side 339 of the control unit 330 (e.g., as Figure 7B shown). The battery 340 can supply power to at least the remote control device 310. The battery 340 can be held in place by a battery holding strap 342, which can also serve as an electrical contact for the battery. The battery holding strap 342 can be loosened by loosening the battery holding screw 344 to allow the battery 340 to be removed and replaced. Although Figure 7B the battery 340 is depicted as being located in the control unit 330, it should be understood that the battery 340 can be placed elsewhere in the remote control device 310 (e.g., in the base portion 320) without affecting the functionality of the remote control device 310.

[0117] Figure 7C is a front exploded view of the control unit 330 of the remote control device 310, and Figure 7D is a rear exploded view. The actuating portion 334 can be received within an opening defined by the rotating portion 332. The rotating portion 332 can include an inner surface 416 having tabs 418 around the circumference of the rotating portion. The tabs 418 can be separated by notches 420 configured to receive engagement members 422 of the actuating portion 334, thereby engaging the actuating portion 334 with the rotating portion 332. The control unit 330 can also include a bushing 424 received within the rotating portion 332 such that the upper surface 426 of the bushing can contact the lower surface 428 of the tabs 418 inside the rotating portion. When the rotating portion 334 rotates, the actuating portion 334 can rotate with the rotating portion. The engagement members 422 of the actuating portion 334 can move in the z-direction (e.g., toward the base portion) through the notches 420 such that the actuating portion 334 can move in the z-direction.

[0118] The control unit 330 can also include a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) 430, which can be disposed on a carrier 432. The flexible PCB 430 can include a main portion 434 on which most of the control circuits (e.g., including the control circuits) of the control unit 330 can be mounted. The control unit 330 can include one or more light sources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) 436 mounted to the front surface of the flexible PCB 430 near the bottom of the flexible PCB, to illuminate an illuminated portion of the actuating portion 334 (e.g., Figure 3B the illuminated portion 230b of the control device 200 as shown).

[0119] The control unit 330 may include a mask 460 configured to be mounted above the LED 436. The mask 460 may include a folded piece of a flexible opaque material such as Mylar. The mask 460 may include a main portion 462 having an aperture 462 through which light from the LED 436 may shine to generate an illuminated portion on the actuation portion 334. The mask 460 may include legs 466 configured to rest on and / or attach to the flexible PCB 430, and legs 468 configured to hold the main portion 362 and the aperture 464 above the LED 436. The mask 460 may help generate a sharp aperture on, around, or near the actuation portion 334 (e.g., as Figure 3B shown). The actuation portion 334 may be made of white plastic, which may diffuse the light shining on the inner surface of the actuation portion through the aperture 462. Additionally, the actuation portion 334 may be made of transparent plastic with its inner surface coated with a paint (e.g., white paint), which may provide a sharper aperture on the actuation portion 334. The mask 460 may be omitted to generate a more diffused aperture on the actuation portion 334 (e.g., as Figure 3A shown).

[0120] The flexible PCB 430 may include a switch tab 438, which may be connected to the main portion 434 (e.g., via a flexible arm 440). The switch tab 438 may have a mechanical tactile switch 442 mounted thereon. The switch tab 438 of the flexible PCB 430 may be configured to rest on a switch tab surface 444 on the carrier 432. The carrier 432 may include an engagement member 446 configured to be received within a notch 448 in the bushing 424. A ring 450 may snap onto the lower surface 452 of the rotating portion to hold the control unit 330 together. A clamp 338 may be attached to the carrier 432 to allow the control unit 330 to be connected to the base portion.

[0121] When the actuation portion 334 is pressed, the actuation portion 334 may move in the z - direction until the inner surface 458 of the actuation member actuates the mechanical tactile switch 442. The actuation portion 334 may return to the idle position via the mechanical tactile switch 442. Additionally, the control unit 330 may include an additional return spring for returning the actuation portion 334 to the idle position. In some examples, the actuation of the actuation portion 334 may not cause the actuation portion to move (e.g., the actuation portion 334 may substantially maintain its position in the z - direction). For example, the front surface of the actuation portion 334 may be a touch - sensitive surface (e.g., a capacitive touch surface) configured to detect user input via point actuation and / or gestures.

[0122] As Figure 7DAs shown, the battery 340 may be adapted to be received within a battery recess 462 in a carrier 432. The battery 340 may be held in place by a battery holding strap 342, which may also serve as a negative electrical contact for the battery and a tamper resistant fastener for the battery. The flexible PCB may include a contact pad 466 that may serve as a positive electrical contact for the battery 340. The battery holding strap 342 may include legs 468 that terminate in feet 470, which may be electrically connected to a flexible pad 472 on the flexible PCB 430 (e.g., as shown in Figure 7C ). The battery holding strap 342 may be held in place by a battery holding screw 344 received within an opening 476 in the carrier 432. When the battery holding screw 344 is loosened and removed from the opening 476, the flexible pad 472 may be configured to move (e.g., bend or twist) to allow the battery holding strap 342 to move out of the path of the battery 340 to allow removal and replacement of the battery.

[0123] The control unit 330 may also include a magnetic strip 480 located on an inner surface 416 of the rotating portion 332 and extending circumferentially around the rotating portion. The flexible PCB 430 may include a rotation sensor pad 482 on which a rotation sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor integrated circuit 484) may be mounted. The rotation sensor pad 482 may be arranged perpendicular to a main portion 434 of the flexible PCB 430, as shown in Figure 7D . The magnetic strip 480 may include a plurality of alternating north (e.g., positive) polarized segments and south (e.g., negative) polarized segments, and the Hall effect sensor integrated circuit 484 may include two sensor circuits that may be operative to detect the passage of the north polarized segments and the south polarized segments of the magnetic strip as the rotating portion 332 rotates. Thus, the control circuit of the control unit 330 may be configured to determine the rotational speed and direction of rotation of the rotating portion 332 in response to the Hall effect sensor integrated circuit 484. The flexible PCB 430 may also include a programming tab 486 to allow programming of the control circuit of the control unit 330.

[0124] As shown in Figure 7D , the carrier 432 may include an actuator opening 490 that is adapted to receive a switching actuator of a lamp switch when the control unit 330 is mounted to the base portion. The carrier 432 may include a flat portion 492 that may prevent the switching actuator of the lamp switch from extending into the internal structure of the control unit 330 (e.g., if the switching actuator is particularly long). The flexible PCB 430 may also include an antenna 494 on an antenna tab 496, which may be placed against the flat portion 492 in the actuator opening 490.

[0125] Although in Figure 7Cis not shown in the figure, but the control unit 330 may include a plurality of LEDs arranged around the perimeter of the flexible PCB 430, for example, for illuminating Figures 4 to 6C the visible indicator 250 of the control device 200′ shown in

[0126] The control unit 330 may also be configured to irradiate light beyond the rear surface 339 of the control unit and onto the panel 312. The control unit 330 may include a plurality of LEDs (not shown) mounted to the flexible PCB 430 and an optical waveguide (not shown) for conducting the light generated by the LEDs so as to emit the light from the rear side 339 of the control unit 330. For example, the optical waveguide may be cylindrical and may be located near the inner surface of the rotating portion 332. The optical waveguide may be configured to irradiate light through the gap between the control unit 330 and the base portion 320. For example, the control unit 330 may include a plurality of rearward LEDs mounted to the rear surface of the flexible PCB 430. Additionally, the control unit 330 may include a plurality of side-emitting LEDs mounted to the front or rear side of the flexible PCB 430 and configured to emit light onto the optical waveguide. Furthermore, the base portion 320 may be at least partially transparent or translucent so as to irradiate the light emitted from the rear side 339 of the control unit 330 outside between the control unit 330 and the panel 312.

[0127] Figure 8A is a front exploded perspective view of another exemplary remote control device 510, which may be deployed as Figure 1A and Figure 1B the remote control device 116 in the load control system 100 shown in Figure 2 the control device 200 shown in Figure 4 and / or the control device 200′ shown in Figure 8B is Figure 8A a rear perspective view of the control unit 530 of the remote control device 510. The control unit 530 may be supported by the mounting assembly 520 and may include a rotating portion 532 (e.g., an annular rotating portion) and an actuating portion 534. The rotating portion 532 is capable of rotating relative to the mounting assembly 520.

[0128] As Figure 8AAs shown, the control unit 530 can be separated from the mounting assembly 520. The mounting assembly 520 can be attached (e.g., fixedly attached) to the switching actuator 514 and can be configured to hold the switching actuator 514 in the open position. The mounting assembly 520 can include a base 521 that defines a switching actuator opening 522 that extends through the base and is configured to receive at least a portion of the switching actuator 514. The mounting assembly 520 can include an engagement mechanism such as a lever 525 that can be configured to engage the switching actuator 514, for example, when the switching actuator 514 is received in the switching actuator opening 522. The lever 525 can be configured to engage the switching actuator 514 such that the mounting assembly 520 is fixed in place relative to the switching actuator 514. The lever 525 can be operatively coupled to the base 521 and can be configured to be movable relative to the base 521, e.g., translatable. The lever 525 can be configured to translate within the switching actuator opening 522 such that the lever 525 engages the switching actuator 514, thereby fixedly attaching the mounting assembly 520 to the appropriate position relative to the switching actuator 514 of the light switch 512 when the switching actuator 514 is in the up position or the down position. In this regard, the mounting assembly 520 can be configured to prevent a user from inadvertently switching the switching actuator 514 to the closed position when the remote control device 510 is attached to the light switch 512.

[0129] The control unit 530 can be released from the mounting assembly 520. For example, a control unit release tab 526 can be provided on the mounting assembly 520. By actuating the control unit release tab 526 (e.g., pushing upwardly towards the base portion or pulling downwardly from the base portion), the user can remove the control unit 530 from the mounting assembly 520. The mounting assembly 520 can include one or more engagement features configured to engage complementary engagement features of the control unit 530. For example, as shown, the base 521 of the mounting assembly 520 can include a resilient snap-fit connector 524, and the control unit 530 can define a corresponding recess 525 configured to receive the snap-fit connector 524. The mounting assembly 520 can include a release mechanism operable to release the control unit 530 from an attached position relative to the mounting assembly 520. As shown, the base 521 of the mounting assembly 520 can include a release tab 526 that can be actuated (e.g., pushed) to release the control unit 530 from the mounting assembly 520. In operation, the release tab 526 can be pressed upwardly towards the base 521 to allow the lowermost snap-fit connector 524 adjacent the release tab 526 to be removed from the corresponding lower recess 525 of the control unit 530, such that the control unit 530 can be released from the mounting assembly 520. When the control unit 530 is attached to the mounting assembly 520, the uppermost snap-fit connector 524 can first be positioned in the corresponding upper recess 525 of the control unit 530. Then, the lower portion of the control unit 530 can be pressed towards the base 521 to allow the lower snap-fit connector 524 to be received in the lower recess 525 of the control unit 530.

[0130] The control unit 530 can be released from the mounting assembly 520 to access one or more batteries 540 through the rear side 539 of the control unit 530 (e.g., as Figure 8B shown). The batteries 540 can provide power to at least the remote control device 510. The control unit 530 can include a battery retention strap 542 configured to hold the batteries 540 in place between the battery retention strap 542 and the printed circuit board (PCB) 544 of the control unit 530. The battery retention strap 542 can be configured to serve as a first electrical contact for the batteries 540. A second electrical contact can be located on the rearward surface of the PCB 544. In an example of removing the batteries 540 from the control unit 530, the control unit 530 can be separated from the mounting assembly 520, such as described herein, and the batteries 540 can be slid out from between the battery retention strap 542 and the PCB 544. The PCB 544 can define an actuator opening 546 that extends through the PCB and is configured to receive at least a portion of the switching actuator 514 of the lamp switch 512 when the control unit 530 is mounted to the mounting assembly 520.

[0131] Figure 8C is a front exploded view of the control unit 530 of the remote control device 510, and Figure 8D is a rear exploded view. The PCB 544 may include a mechanical tactile switch 548, which may be mounted to the front surface of the PCB 544. The control circuit of the control unit 530 may be mounted to the PCB 544, such as to one or both of the front surface and the rear surface. The control unit 530 may include an attachment portion 552, which is configured to carry one or more components of the control unit 520, such as the PCB 544. For example, as shown, the PCB 544 may be attached to the attachment portion 552 via a snap-fit connector 554. The attachment portion 552 may include a plurality of tabs 556 arranged around the circumference of the attachment portion 552. The tabs 556 may be configured to be received within corresponding channels 558 defined by the rotating portion 532, thereby coupling the rotating portion 532 to the attachment portion 552 and allowing the rotating portion 532 to rotate around the attachment portion 552. As shown, the attachment portion 552 may define a groove 525. When the control unit 530 is connected to the mounting assembly 520, the snap-fit connector 524 of the mounting assembly 520 may be received within the groove 525 of the attachment portion 552. When the rotating portion 532 rotates around the attachment portion 552, the attachment portion 552 and the PCB 544 may remain fixed in place relative to the mounting assembly 520. When the control unit 530 is attached to the mounting assembly 520, a portion of the switching actuator 514 of the lamp switch 512 may be received within the actuator opening 546 of the PCB 544, such that the rotating portion 532 rotates around the switching actuator 514 during operation.

[0132] The control unit 530 may include a resilient return spring 560 that may be located between the actuating portion 534 and the PCB 544. The return spring 560 may be configured to be attached to the PCB 544. As Figure 8D shown, the actuating portion 534 may define a protrusion 562 that extends rearwardly from the inner surface of the actuating portion 534. When a force is applied to the actuating portion 534 (e.g., when a user of the remote control device 600 presses the actuating portion 534), the actuating portion 534 may move in the direction Z until the protrusion 562 actuates the mechanical tactile switch 548. The return spring 560 may be compressed under the force. When the application of the force stops (e.g., the user no longer presses the actuating portion 534), the return spring 560 may decompress, thereby biasing the actuating portion 534 forwardly such that the actuating portion 534 abuts the edge 564 of the rotating portion 532. In this regard, the return spring 560 may operate to return the actuating portion 534 from an activated (e.g., pressed) position to a rest position.

[0133] The control unit 530 may include a magnetic strip 580 that may be disposed along the inner surface 582 of the rotating part 532. The magnetic strip 580 may extend around the inner circumference of the rotating part 522. The control unit 520 may include one or more rotation sensors 584A, 584B that may be mounted on the PCB 544. For example, the rotation sensors 584A, 584B may each include a Hall effect sensor integrated circuit. The magnetic strip 580 may include a plurality of alternating north-polarized segments and south-polarized segments, and the rotation sensors 584A, 584B may be operable to detect the passage of the north-polarized segments and south-polarized segments of the magnetic strip 580 as the rotating part 532 rotates around the attachment part 552. The control circuit of the control unit 530 may be configured to determine the rotational speed and / or rotational direction of the rotating part 532 in response to the rotation sensors 584A, 584B.

[0134] As shown, the control unit 530 may include two pairs of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that are mounted to the front surface of the PCB 564, where each pair of LEDs includes a first LED 586 of a first color (e.g., white or blue) and a second LED 588 of a second color (e.g., red). The first pair of LEDs 586, 588 may be located near the top of the control unit 530 adjacent to the perimeter of the PCB 564 as Figure 7C shown, and the second pair of LEDs 586, 588 may be located near the bottom of the control unit 530 adjacent to the perimeter of the PCB 564. The control unit 530 may be configured to control the LEDs 586, 588 to illuminate an illuminated portion (e.g., Figure 3A the illuminated portion 230a of the control device 200 shown in ) near the top of the actuating part 534.

[0135] The control unit 530 may be configured to be mounted to the mounting assembly 530 in a first orientation (e.g., a first vertical orientation) and a second orientation (e.g., a second vertical orientation), in the first orientation, the switching actuator 514 of the lamp switch 512 is in an upward position (e.g., as Figure 8AAs shown, in the second orientation, the toggle switch 514 is in the downward position. The control unit 530 may include an orientation sensing circuit (not shown) such that the control unit 530 can be configured to determine the orientation of the control unit. For example, by using the orientation sensing circuit, the control unit 530 can determine its orientation relative to the space in which it is mounted (e.g., based on gravity) and / or its orientation relative to another component (such as the panel 516, the toggle actuator 514 of the light switch 512, etc.). For example, the control unit 530 can be configured to use the orientation sensing circuit to determine whether the control unit 530 is attached to the mounting assembly 520 in the first orientation or the second orientation. The control unit 530 can be configured to illuminate one of the first LEDs 586 to illuminate an illuminated portion (e.g., white or blue) near the top of the actuating portion 534 depending on whether the control unit 530 is mounted in the first orientation or the second orientation. The control unit 530 can be configured to illuminate one of the second LEDs 588 to illuminate a portion near the bottom of the actuating portion 534 (e.g., red) of the actuating portion 534 to indicate low battery. The control unit 530 can be configured to illuminate two LEDs 586, 588 of a pair of LEDs in a plurality of pairs of LEDs to illuminate the illuminated portion near the top of the actuating portion 534 in different colors according to whether the rotating portion 532 is rotated to adjust the color temperature of the lighting device. For example, when the rotating portion 532 is rotating clockwise to increase the color temperature towards the cold white color temperature T CW increases, the illuminated portion can be illuminated blue or cold white, and when the rotating portion 532 is rotating counterclockwise to decrease the color temperature towards the warm white color temperature T WW decreases, the illuminated portion can be illuminated red or warm white.

[0136] Although not shown in Figure 8C , the control unit 520 may include a plurality of LEDs arranged around the perimeter of the PCB 564, for example, for illuminating Figures 4 to 6C the visible indicator 250 of the control device 200' shown in

[0137] The control unit 530 may also be configured to direct light beyond the rear side 539 of the control unit and onto the panel 512. The control unit 530 may include a plurality of LEDs (not shown) mounted to a flexible PCB 564 and a light guide (not shown) for conducting the light generated by the LEDs to exit from the rear side 539 of the control unit 530. For example, the light guide may be cylindrical and may be located near the inner surface of the rotating part 532. The light guide may be configured to direct light out through the gap between the control unit 530 and the base part 520. For example, the control unit 530 may include a plurality of rearward LEDs mounted to the rear surface of the flexible PCB 564. Additionally, the control unit 530 may include a plurality of side-emitting LEDs mounted to the front or rear side of the flexible PCB 564 and configured to emit light onto the light guide. Further, the mounting assembly 520 may be at least partially transparent or translucent to direct the light emitted from the rear side 539 of the control unit 530 outside between the control unit 530 and the panel 512.

[0138] Additionally, the control unit 530 may be configured to be mounted in a horizontal orientation. Figure 8E FIG. is a perspective view of the control unit 530 mounted to the base 570 in a horizontal orientation. The control unit 530 may be mounted to the base 570 such that the control unit 530 can be placed on a horizontal surface such as a tabletop. The control unit 570 may be configured to determine that it is in a horizontal orientation in response to an orientation sensing circuit. When the control unit 530 is mounted in a horizontal position, the control unit 530 may be configured to illuminate one or the other of the first LEDs 586. For example, the control unit 530 may be configured to decide to illuminate one of the first LEDs 586 when the control unit 530 is mounted in a horizontal position and prevent subsequent adjustment of which LED is illuminated in response to the orientation sensing circuit (e.g., prevent subsequent illumination of the other of the first LEDs 586). For example, which one of the first LEDs 586 the control unit 530 decides to illuminate in the horizontal position may be pre-determined (e.g., predefined) and / or may depend on the last of the first vertical orientation or the second vertical orientation in which the control unit 530 is oriented. Additionally, the control unit 530 may determine to illuminate one of the first LEDs 586 in the horizontal position in response to one or more actuations of the rotating part 532 and / or the actuating part 534. Further, the control unit 530 may determine to illuminate one of the first LEDs 586 in the horizontal position in response to a digital message (e.g., in one or more wireless communication signals received via a wireless communication circuit). The control unit 530 may prevent subsequent adjustment of which LED is illuminated in response to the orientation sensing circuit while the control unit remains in a horizontal orientation. The control unit 530 may resume adjustment of which LED is illuminated in response to the orientation sensing circuit.

[0139] The control unit 530 can be configured to determine in a similar manner which of the second LEDs 588 to illuminate when the control unit 530 is installed in a horizontal position.

[0140] Although the rotating portions 214, 332, 532 and the actuating portions 216, 334, 534 of the control device 200, the remote control device 310 and the remote control device 510 shown and described herein have a circular shape, the rotating portions and the actuating portions can have other shapes. For example, the rotating portions and the actuating portions can be rectangular, square, diamond, triangular, oval, star-shaped or any suitable shape. The front surface of the actuating portions 216, 334, 534 and / or the side surface of the rotating portions 214, 332, 532 can be planar or non-planar. The surface of the control device 200, the remote control device 310 and / or the remote control device 510 can be characterized by various colors, finishes, designs, patterns, etc.

[0141] Figure 9 is a simplified block diagram of an exemplary control device 900 (e.g., a remote control device) that can be deployed as the remote control device 116, the control device 200, the remote control device 310 and / or the remote control device 510 in the load control system 100. The control device 900 can include a control circuit 910, one or more actuators 912 (e.g., buttons and / or switches), a rotation sensing circuit 914, a wireless communication circuit 918, a memory 920, a battery 922, an orientation detection circuit 924 and / or one or more LEDs 926. The memory 920 can be configured to store one or more operating parameters of the control device 900 (e.g., such as pre-configured color scenes or preset light intensities). The battery 922 can supply power to Figure 9 one or more of the components shown.

[0142] One or more actuators 912 may include buttons or switches (e.g., mechanical buttons or switches, or facsimiles thereof), such as those described in association with the actuation portion 216 of the control device 200, the actuation portion 334 of the remote control device 310, and / or the actuation portion 534 of the remote control device 510. The actuator 912 may be configured to send a corresponding input signal to the control circuit 910 in response to actuation of the actuator 912 (e.g., in response to movement of the actuator 912). The rotation sensing circuit 914 may be configured to convert a force applied to a rotating mechanism (e.g., the rotating portion 214 of the control device 200, the rotating portion 332 of the remote control device 310, and / or the rotating portion 532 of the remote control device 510) into an input signal and provide the input signal to the control circuit 910. The rotation sensing circuit 914 may include, for example, one or more magnetic sensors (such as Hall effect sensors (HES), tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors, anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) sensors, giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensors, reed switches, or other mechanical magnetic sensors), mechanical encoders, optical encoders, and / or potentiometers (e.g., polymer thick films or other resistive traces on a printed circuit board).

[0143] The control circuit 910 may be configured to convert the input signals provided by the actuator 912 and / or the rotation sensing circuit 914 into control data for controlling one or more electrical loads. The control circuit 910 may cause a control signal (e.g., a digital message) including the control data to be transmitted via the wireless communication circuit 918 to the electrical load. For example, the wireless communication circuit 918 may transmit a control signal including the control data to one or more electrical loads or to a central controller of an associated load control system. The control circuit 910 may transmit a control signal that includes control data for turning on or off one or more lighting loads in response to actuation of one of the actuators 912. The control circuit 910 may transmit one or more control signals that include control data for adjusting the intensity of one or more lighting loads in response to rotation of the rotating mechanism determined by the rotation sensing circuit 914. The control circuit 910 may transmit one or more control signals that include control data for adjusting the color (e.g., color temperature) of one or more lighting loads in response to rotation of the rotating mechanism when one of the actuators 912 is actuated. The control data may include commands for controlling the electrical load and / or indications of actuation of the actuator 912 and / or the rotating mechanism.

[0144] The control circuit 910 can be configured to determine the orientation of the control device 900 in response to the orientation sensing circuit 924. The control device 900 can be mounted to a mounting assembly (e.g., mounting assembly 530) in a first orientation (e.g., a first vertical orientation) and a second orientation (e.g., a second vertical orientation), the second orientation being, for example, approximately 180° from the first orientation. For example, the mounting assembly can be mounted above the toggle actuator of a light switch when the toggle actuator is in an upward position in the first orientation (e.g., as shown in Figure 8A shown) and when the toggle actuator is in a downward position in the second orientation. The orientation sensing circuit 924 can include, for example, an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope. The control circuit 910 can be configured to determine the orientation (e.g., whether the control device 900 is in the first orientation or the second orientation) each time the control circuit wakes up from a closed state or a sleep state. Additionally, the control circuit 910 can be configured to determine that the control device 900 is mounted in a horizontal orientation in response to the orientation sensing circuit 924.

[0145] The control circuit 910 can illuminate one or more LEDs 926 to provide simple feedback regarding various conditions. For example, the control circuit 910 can control one or more LEDs to illuminate an illuminated portion (e.g., illuminated portions 230a - 230c) on the front surface 218 of the actuator portion 216, as shown in Figures 3A to 3C shown, and / or shine light from the rear side of the control module 200 onto the panel 212, as shown in Figure 3D shown. In response to the actuation of one or more of the actuators 912 and / or an input received from the rotation sensing circuit 914, the control circuit 910 can control one or more LEDs 926 to provide simple feedback indicating that the control circuit 910 is currently transmitting a wireless signal via the wireless communication circuit 918. The control circuit 910 can be configured to determine which of the LEDs 926 to illuminate to provide simple feedback in response to the orientation sensing circuit 924 (e.g., depending on whether the control device 900 is in the first orientation or the second orientation). Additionally, when the control device 900 is mounted in a horizontal orientation, the control circuit 910 can be configured to determine which of the LEDs 926 to illuminate and then prevent subsequent adjustment of which LED is illuminated in response to the orientation sensing circuit 924.

[0146] A user interacting with a corresponding control device may not be aware of specific conditions existing at the control device and / or other devices within the load control system. For example, the user may not know the status of the control device (e.g., the status of the battery of the control device) and / or the type of control that the control device is configured to perform (e.g., adjusting an intensity level or color temperature). Additionally, the user may not know the impact of interacting with the control device on other devices within the load control system (e.g., a lighting device paired with the control device). As a result, the user may not be able to effectively interact with the control device. To provide the user with the ability to effectively interact with the control device, the control device can be configured to provide feedback (e.g., simple feedback and / or advanced feedback) to the user in response to a user interface event. Figures 10 to 12 An exemplary process for providing feedback to a user in response to a user interface event is shown.

[0147] Figure 10 FIG. is a flowchart of an exemplary control process 1000 that can be executed by a control circuit of a control device (e.g., the control circuit 910 of the control device 900). For example, the control circuit can execute the control process 1000 at 1010 in response to rotation of a rotating portion (e.g., the rotating portions 118, 214, 332, and / or 532). At 1012, the control circuit can determine the orientation of the control device (e.g., based on the orientation sensing circuit 924) to determine whether the control device is in a first orientation or a second orientation. Additionally, at 1012, the control circuit can be configured to determine whether the control device is in a horizontal orientation. At 1014, the control device can determine whether the battery level of the control device is low. At 1014, if the battery level of the control device is low, then at 1016, the control circuit can provide an indication of the low battery condition, which can indicate the status of the control device to the user, and the control process 1000 can exit. Additionally, an indication of the low battery condition is provided. For example, the control circuit can control one or more LEDs to illuminate the bottom portion of an actuating portion (e.g., the actuating portions 117, 216, 334, and / or 534) red. The control circuit can determine which of the LEDs to turn on to illuminate the bottom portion of the actuating portion in response to the orientation determined at 1012.

[0148] If the battery level of the control device is not low at 1014, then at 1018, the control circuit can provide a rotation animation. For example, the control circuit can control one or more of the LEDs to provide an actuation animation by illuminating an illuminated portion near the top of the actuating portion (e.g., Figure 3A the illuminated portion 230a shown in Figure 3E ). The control circuit can turn the LEDs on and off once (e.g., as shown in Figure 3Fas shown) to provide actuation animation. The control circuit can determine which of the LEDs to control in response to the orientation determined at 1012 to illuminate an illuminated portion near the top of the actuating portion.

[0149] At 1020, the control circuit can transmit control data for controlling at least one lighting device. For example, at 1020, the control circuit can transmit one or more digital messages including a "move to horizontal" command to increase and / or decrease the intensity of the lighting device in response to the rotation of the rotating portion. If the rotation is completed at 1022, the control process 1000 can exit. If the rotation is not completed at 1022, then at 1024, the control circuit can determine whether the rotating portion has rotated (e.g., continuously rotated) a predetermined threshold amount (e.g., approximately 210°). If the predetermined threshold amount has not been rotated, then at 1020, the control circuit can transmit the control data again (e.g., at a periodic rate). If at 1024 the rotating portion has been rotated the predetermined threshold amount and at 1026 the rotation of the rotating portion is for increasing the intensity of the lighting device (e.g., clockwise rotation), then at 1028, the control circuit can provide a high-end animation to indicate that the lighting device has reached the high-end intensity, and then the control process 1000 exits. For example, rotating the rotating portion the predetermined threshold amount can cause the intensity level of the lighting device to change from a low-end intensity to a high-end intensity. At 1028, the control circuit can provide a high-end animation by causing the illuminated portion of the actuating portion to blink or flutter (e.g., turn on and off quickly many times within a certain time period).

[0150] Figure 11 is a flowchart of another exemplary control process 1100 that can be executed by the control circuit of the control device (e.g., the control circuit 910 of the control device 900). For example, the control circuit can execute the control process 1100 at 1110 in response to the rotation of the rotating portion (e.g., the rotating portions 118, 214, 332, and / or 532). At 1112, the control circuit can determine the orientation of the control device (e.g., based on the orientation sensing circuit 924) to determine whether the control device is in a first orientation or a second orientation. Additionally, at 1112, the control circuit can be configured to determine whether the control device is in a horizontal orientation. At 1114, if the battery level of the control device is low, then at 1116, the control circuit can provide an indication of the low battery condition, and the control process 1000 can exit. For example, the control circuit can control one or more LEDs to illuminate the bottom portion of the actuating portion (e.g., the actuating portions 117, 216, 334, and / or 534) red. The control circuit can determine which of the LEDs to turn on to illuminate the bottom portion of the actuating portion in response to the orientation determined at 1112.

[0151] If the battery power of the control device is not low at 1114, then at 1118, the control circuit can determine whether the actuating portion is being actuated while the rotating portion is being rotated. If the actuating portion is not being actuated at 1118 while the rotating portion is being rotated, then at 1120, the control circuit can provide an illuminated indicator, such as an illuminated portion near the top of the actuating portion (e.g., Figure 3A the illuminated portion 230A shown in

[0152] For example, at 1120, the control circuit can control one or more of the LEDs to illuminate the illuminated portion white. At 1118, if the actuating portion is being actuated while the rotating portion is being rotated, and at 1122 the rotation is clockwise (e.g., to increase the color temperature of the lighting device), then at 1124, the control circuit can illuminate the indicator (e.g., the illuminated portion of the actuating portion) in cool white (or blue). At 1118, if the actuating portion is being actuated while the rotating portion is being rotated, and at 1122 the rotation is counterclockwise (e.g., to decrease the color temperature of the lighting device), then at 1126, the control circuit can illuminate the indicator (e.g., the illuminated portion of the actuating portion) in warm white (or red).

[0153] After illuminating the indicator at 1120, 1124, or 1126, at 1128, the control circuit can transmit control data for controlling the lighting device. For example, if the rotation of the rotating portion is to increase or decrease the intensity of the lighting device, then at 1128, the control circuit can transmit a "move to level" command in response to the rotation of the rotating portion to adjust the intensity of the lighting device. If the rotation of the rotating portion is to increase or decrease the color temperature of the lighting device, then at 1128, the control circuit can transmit a "move to color temperature" command in response to the rotation of the rotating portion to adjust the color temperature of the lighting device. If the rotation is completed at 1130, then at 1132, the control circuit can turn off the indicator (e.g., by turning off the LEDs that illuminate the illuminated portion of the actuating portion), and the control process 1100 can exit.

[0154] If the rotation is not completed at 1130, at 1134, the control circuit can determine whether the rotating part has rotated a predetermined threshold amount (e.g., approximately 210°). If the rotating part has rotated less than the predetermined threshold amount, at 1128, the control circuit can transmit the control data again (e.g., at a periodic rate). If the rotating part has rotated the predetermined threshold amount at 1134, at 1136, the control circuit can provide a limit indication (e.g., a limit animation) to indicate that the lighting device has reached a limit (e.g., a high-end intensity, a low-end intensity, a cold white color temperature limit, and / or a warm white color temperature limit), and then the control process 1100 exits. For example, the rotating part rotating the predetermined threshold amount can cause a change in the intensity level of the lighting device between the low-end intensity and the high-end intensity and / or between the cold white color temperature limit and the warm white color temperature limit. At 1136, the control circuit can provide the limit animation by causing the illuminated part of the actuating part to blink or flutter (e.g., turn on and off quickly many times within a certain time period).

[0155] Figure 12 is a flowchart of another exemplary control process 1200 that can be executed by a control circuit of a control device (e.g., the control circuit of the remote control device 116 in the load control system 100, the control circuit of a system controller such as the hub device 180, and / or the control circuit 910 of the control device 900). For example, the control circuit can execute the control process 1200 at 1210 in response to the rotation of a rotating part (e.g., the rotating parts 118, 214, 332, and / or 532), and / or execute the Figure 11 control process 1100 at 1128. Additionally, the control circuit can execute the control process 1200 in response to receiving control data indicating the rotation of a rotating part of an external device (e.g., the control circuit of the hub device 180 can execute the control process 1200 in response to receiving a digital message including control data indicating the rotation of the rotating part 118 of the remote control device 116). During the control process 1200, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for controlling at least one lighting device (e.g., the lighting devices 112a, 112b, 122).

[0156] At 1212, the control circuit can determine whether an actuation part (e.g., actuation parts 117, 216, 334, and / or 534) is being actuated while the rotating part is being rotated. If at 1212 the actuation part is being actuated while the rotating part is being rotated and at 1214 the rotating part is being rotated clockwise, then at 1216, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for increasing the color temperature of the lighting device. If at 1212 the actuation part is being actuated while the rotating part is being rotated and at 1214 the rotating part is being rotated counterclockwise, then at 1218, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for decreasing the color temperature of the lighting device. For example, at 1216 and 1218, the control circuit can adjust the color temperature of the lighting device by an amount depending on the amount of rotation of the rotating part.

[0157] At 1212, if the actuation part is not being actuated while the rotating part is being rotated, then at 1220, the control device can determine whether the lighting device is on. If at 1220 the lighting load is on and at 1222 the rotating part is being rotated clockwise, then at 1224, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for increasing the intensity of the lighting device. If at 1220 the lighting load is on and at 1222 the rotating part is being rotated counterclockwise, then at 1226, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for decreasing the intensity of the lighting device. For example, at 1224 and 1226, the control circuit can adjust the intensity of the lighting device by an amount depending on the amount of rotation of the rotating part. If at 1220 the lighting load is off and at 1228 the rotating part is being rotated clockwise, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for turning on the lighting device at 1230 to an intensity determined by the amount of rotation of the rotating part. If at 1220 the lighting load is off and at 1228 the rotating part is being rotated counterclockwise, the control circuit can generate and / or transmit control data for turning on the lighting device to a low-end intensity (e.g., minimum intensity). The control circuit may not adjust the intensity of the lighting device from the low-end intensity in response to continuous rotation of the rotating part in the counterclockwise direction.

Claims

1. A control device configured to be used in a load control system to control a lighting device, the control device comprising: A base portion; A control unit configured to be connected to the base portion, the control unit including a rotating portion capable of rotating relative to the base portion, an actuating portion including a front surface and received in an opening of the rotating portion, a light source, and a control circuit; Wherein the light source is configured to at least illuminate an illuminated portion on the front surface of the actuating portion, and the control circuit is configured to: In response to rotation of the rotating portion in the clockwise direction, determine first control data for increasing the intensity of the lighting device based on a first rotation amount, control the light source to illuminate the illuminated portion of the actuating portion to indicate an increase in the intensity of the lighting device, and transmit a control signal including the first control data for increasing the intensity of the lighting device; When the rotating portion has continuously rotated a predetermined threshold amount in the clockwise direction, determine that the intensity of the lighting device has reached a high-end limit, wherein the predetermined threshold amount of continuous rotation in the clockwise direction is the rotation amount required to generate control data configured to raise the intensity of the lighting device from a low-end intensity to a high-end intensity; When it is determined that the intensity of the lighting device has reached the high-end limit, control the light source to cause the illuminated portion to blink; In response to rotation of the rotating portion in the counterclockwise direction, determine second control data for reducing the intensity of the lighting device based on a second rotation amount, control the light source to illuminate the illuminated portion of the actuating portion to indicate a decrease in the intensity of the lighting device, and transmit a control signal including the second control data for reducing the intensity of the lighting device; When the rotating portion has continuously rotated a predetermined threshold amount in the counterclockwise direction, determine that the intensity of the lighting device has reached a low-end limit, wherein the predetermined threshold amount of continuous rotation in the counterclockwise direction is the rotation amount required to generate control data configured to lower the intensity of the lighting device from a high-end intensity to a low-end intensity; When it is determined that the intensity of the lighting device has reached the low-end limit, control the light source to cause the illuminated portion to blink; and In response to actuation of the actuating portion, determine third control data for turning on or off the lighting device, control the light source to continuously illuminate the illuminated portion of the actuating portion for a fixed period of time after detecting the actuation of the actuating portion, and transmit a control signal including the third control data.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the light source to continuously illuminate the illuminated portion when the actuating portion is actuated.

3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the light source to illuminate the illuminated portion red after detecting the actuation of the actuating portion to indicate a low battery condition.

4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to: Determine fourth control data for adjusting the color temperature of the one lighting device in response to rotation of the rotating part in the clockwise direction; When the rotating part rotates in the clockwise direction, illuminate the illuminating part with a first color; Determine fifth control data for adjusting the color temperature of the lighting device in response to rotation of the rotating part in the counterclockwise direction; and When the rotating part rotates in the counterclockwise direction, illuminate the illuminating part with a second color.

5. The control device according to claim 4, wherein the control circuit is configured to illuminate the illuminating part with blue when the rotating part is rotated to adjust the color temperature towards cold white, and to illuminate the illuminating part with red when the rotating part is rotated to adjust the color temperature towards warm white.

6. The control device according to claim 4, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the fourth control data or the fifth control data for adjusting the color temperature of the one or more lighting devices when the actuating part is actuated while the rotating part is rotated.

7. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a mask located between the light source and the actuating part, the mask including an aperture through which light emitted by the light source can irradiate onto the actuating part.

8. The control device according to claim 7, wherein the actuating part is made of transparent plastic, and an inner surface of the actuating part is coated with a coating, and wherein the illuminating part of the actuating part is a sharp aperture.

9. The control device according to claim 7, wherein the actuating part is made of white plastic, and the illuminating part of the actuating part is a diffused aperture.

10. The control device according to claim 7, wherein the mask includes a piece of polyester film that is folded and configured to be mounted above a printed circuit board to which the light source is mounted.

11. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the illuminating part of the actuating part is located near the top of the actuating part.

12. The control device according to claim 11, wherein the control unit includes a first light source and a second light source, the first light source for illuminating the illuminating part at the top of the actuating part when the control unit is mounted to the base part in a first orientation, and the second light source for illuminating the illuminating part at the top of the actuating part when the control unit is mounted to the base part in a second orientation.

13. The control device according to claim 12, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine whether the control unit is mounted to the base part in the first orientation or the second orientation in response to an orientation sensing circuit, and the control circuit is configured to determine which of the first light source and the second light source to control in response to the orientation sensing circuit.

14. The control device according to claim 13, wherein when the control unit is mounted in a horizontal orientation, the control device is configured to determine which of the first light source and the second light source to control, and then prevent subsequent adjustment of which of the first light source and the second light source is controlled in response to the orientation sensing circuit.

15. The control device according to claim 12, wherein the base portion is configured to be mounted above a mechanical switch.

16. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the illuminating portion of the actuating portion is located near the center of the actuating portion.

17. The control device according to claim 16, wherein the illuminating portion of the actuating portion is an annular ring.

18. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the light source to illuminate the illuminating portion differently according to which of the actuating portion and the rotating portion is actuated.

19. A control device configured for use in a load control system to control an external lighting device, the control device comprising: A base portion; A control unit configured to be connected to the base portion, the control unit including a rotating portion capable of rotating relative to the base portion, a visible indicator, an actuating portion, a plurality of light sources configured to illuminate the visible indicator, and a control circuit configured to: In response to rotation of the rotating portion in a clockwise direction, determine first control data for increasing the intensity of the lighting device based on a first rotation amount, control the plurality of light sources to illuminate at least a portion of the visible indicator to indicate an increase in the intensity of the lighting device, and transmit a control signal including the first control data; When the rotating portion has continuously rotated a predetermined threshold amount in the clockwise direction, determine that the intensity of the lighting device has reached a high-end limit, wherein the predetermined threshold amount of continuous rotation in the clockwise direction is the rotation amount required to generate control data configured to raise the intensity of the lighting device from a low-end intensity to a high-end intensity; By controlling the plurality of light sources to cause the visible indicator to blink when it is determined that the intensity of the lighting device reaches the high-end limit, control the plurality of light sources to provide a limit indication on the visible indicator; In response to rotation of the rotating portion in a counterclockwise direction, determine second control data for reducing the intensity of the lighting device based on a second rotation amount, control the plurality of light sources to illuminate at least a portion of the visible indicator to indicate a decrease in the intensity of the lighting device, and transmit a control signal including the second control data for reducing the intensity of the lighting device; When the rotating portion has continuously rotated a predetermined threshold amount in the counterclockwise direction, determine that the intensity of the lighting device has reached a low-end limit, wherein the predetermined threshold amount of continuous rotation in the counterclockwise direction is the rotation amount required to generate control data configured to lower the intensity of the lighting device from a high-end intensity to a low-end intensity; and By controlling the plurality of light sources to cause the visible indicator to blink when it is determined that the intensity of the lighting device reaches a low-end limit, the plurality of light sources are controlled to provide a limit indication on the visible indicator.

20. The control device according to claim 19, wherein the visible indicator includes a circular light bar located between the rotating portion and the actuating portion.

21. The control device according to claim 19, wherein the base portion is configured to be mounted above a mechanical switch.

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