Gesture control for in-wall devices

Abstract

The invention relates to gesture control for in-wall devices. A method for controlling operation of a power switch includes obtaining, by one or more processors of the power switch, data indicative of one or more contactless gestures. The method includes determining, by the one or more processors, a control action based at least in part on the data indicative of the one or more contactless gestures. The method includes performing, by the one or more processors, the control action.

Description

[0001] Information about divisional applications

[0002] This case is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application date of December 19, 2018, application number 201880086532.8, and invention name “Gesture control for wall-mounted devices”.

[0003] Priority claim

[0004] This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 608,121, filed on December 20, 2017, entitled “Gesture Control for In-Wall Device,” which is incorporated herein by reference. This application is also based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 640,296, filed on March 8, 2018, entitled “Gesture Control for In-Wall Device.” In addition, this application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 673,239, filed on May 18, 2018, entitled “Gesture Control for In-Wall Device.” Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to in-wall devices, such as power switching devices. Background Art

[0006] In-wall devices may include devices that can be mounted on a wall or other surface or at least partially disposed therein (e.g., in a wall-mounted electrical box). Example in-wall devices may include power switches used to control various powered devices such as electronic devices, light sources, appliances, power outlets, and other devices. The power switch may control the power delivered to the load, for example, by interrupting the conductor that delivers the power to the load. Example power switches may include, for example, single or multiple on / off two-state toggle switches, foot or rocker switches, single or multiple pole dimmer switches, power outlets, etc.

[0007] As Internet of Things (IoT) technology advances, power switches and other in-wall devices can communicate with other electronic devices through one or more communication links. For example, the power switch can communicate using communication technologies such as low-energy Bluetooth, Bluetooth mesh networking, near field communication, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Ethernet, etc. Summary of the invention

[0008] Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be learned from the description, or may be learned through practice of the embodiments.

[0009] An example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a power switch. The power switch includes a housing that can be mounted on a surface or at least partially within a surface. The housing includes a front panel. The power switch includes an interface element disposed on the front panel. The power switch includes a power interrupter. The power interrupter is operable to control the delivery of power to one or more powered loads based at least in part on user interaction with the interface element. The power switch includes one or more processors. The one or more processors may be configured to obtain data indicating one or more contactless gestures. The one or more processors may also be configured to determine a control action based at least in part on the data indicating the one or more contactless gestures. The one or more processors may also be configured to implement the control action.

[0010] Another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method for operating a power switch. The method includes obtaining, by one or more processors at a power switch, data indicating one or more contactless gestures. The method includes determining, by the one or more processors, a control action based at least in part on the data indicating the one or more contactless gestures. The method includes implementing, by the one or more processors, the control action.

[0011] Yet another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a power switch. The power switch includes a housing that can be mounted on a surface or at least partially within a surface. The housing includes a front panel. The power switch includes an interface element disposed on the front panel. The power switch includes a power interrupter. The power interrupter is operable to control the delivery of power to one or more powered loads based at least in part on user interaction with the interface element. The power switch includes one or more processors. The one or more processors may be configured to obtain data indicating the presence of a user in a space associated with the power switch. The one or more processors may also be configured to determine a control action based at least in part on the data indicating the presence of the user. The one or more processors may also be configured to implement the control action.

[0012] These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodiments will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the relevant principles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] A detailed discussion of embodiments for those of ordinary skill in the art is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 depicts a perspective view of an example power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 depicts a front view of an example power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3 depicts an exploded view of an example power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 depicts a first button and a second button assembly of a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5 depicts a front view of an example power switch with the rocker button removed according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 6 depicts an example acoustic gap defined between a rocker button and a footrest housing according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 depicts an example halo indicator on a rocker button according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 8 depicts an example night light indicator on a rocker button according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 9 depicts an example access door for gaining access to program a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Fig.10 A block diagram depicting example components of a power switch according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig.11 depicts an example computing environment for use in conjunction with a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig.12 A flowchart depicting an example method according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig.13A depicts an example indicator for display on a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Fig. 13B depicts an example indicator for display on a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig. 13C depicts an example indicator for display on a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Fig.13Ddepicts an example indicator for display on a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Fig.14 depicts an example contactless gesture for controlling a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Fig.15 depicts an example contactless gesture for controlling a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Fig.16 depicts an example contactless gesture for controlling a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Fig.17 A flowchart depicting an example method according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Fig.18 A flowchart depicting an example method according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Fig.19 depicts an example lighting system incorporating a plurality of power switches according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Fig. 20 depicts a rear view of an example light blocker according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0037] Fig.21 Depicted is a front view of an example light blocker according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided in a manner that explains the invention rather than limiting the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used together with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is desired that aspects of the present invention encompass such modifications and variations.

[0039] Example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an in-wall device for controlling and / or powering one or more other devices, such as electrical loads. In some embodiments, the in-wall device may be a power switch, such as a single or multiple on / off toggle switches, a foot or rocker button, a single or multiple pole dimmer switch, a power outlet, or other device capable of controlling the delivery of power to one or more powered loads. For example, the power switch may be configured to interrupt power delivered to one or more loads by interrupting or controlling power to conductors that deliver power to the loads.

[0040] For purposes of illustration and discussion, embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to a power switch. A person skilled in the art using the disclosure provided herein will understand that aspects of the present disclosure are applicable to other in-wall devices. As used herein, an "in-wall device" is an electrical or electronic device that can be mounted on and / or in a wall or other surface, such as a panel, ceiling, floor, or other surface. In some embodiments, the in-wall device can be installed in an electrical box secured to and / or in a wall or other surface.

[0041] It should be understood that the wall mounted device can be installed in any suitable type of electrical box. For example, in some embodiments, the wall mounted device can be installed in a single-gang electrical box. As another example, the wall mounted device can be installed in a double-gang electrical box. As yet another example, the wall mounted device can be installed in a triple-gang electrical box.

[0042] The power switch may be a "smart" device. For example, the power switch may include one or more processors and one or more memory devices. The one or more processors may execute computer-readable instructions stored in the one or more memory devices to provide desired functionality. Example functionality may include communicating with other devices over one or more communication links. For example, the power switch may communicate with an electrical load (e.g., a lighting fixture, a ceiling fan, an appliance, an electronic device, an electrical outlet, a household device, etc.) to control the operation of the electrical load. The power switch may communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., a server, a cloud computing device, a user device such as a smart phone, a tablet computer, a wearable device, etc.) to receive data, access processing resources, store data, receive user input or control, access models, access services (e.g., a digital audio assistant service), receive software updates or other updates, etc.

[0043] Example communication technologies and / or protocols may include, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth mesh networking, near field communication, Thread, Transport Layer Security (TLS), Wi-Fi (e.g., IEEE 802.11), Wi-Fi Direct (for peer-to-peer communications), Z-Wave, ZigBee, HaLow, cellular communications, LTE, low power wide area networking, VSAT, Ethernet, Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), power line communications (PLC), digital line transmission (DLT), etc. Other suitable communication technologies and / or protocols may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0044] According to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the power switch may be capable of performing one or more actions based at least in part on audio data (e.g., a voice command) received at the power switch. For example, the power switch may include at least one microphone configured to obtain audio input. The audio input may be, for example, a voice command received from a user. In response to the audio input, the power switch may be configured to take one or more actions. For example, one or more processors located in the power switch may perform audio processing on the audio input to recognize the voice command and control the power switch to take one or more actions. Additionally and / or in an alternative, the audio input may be transmitted to one or more other devices (e.g., a cloud computing device) for audio processing to recognize the voice command.

[0045] In some embodiments, in response to the audio input, the power switch may be configured to take an action associated with controlling and / or providing power to one or more devices powered by the in-wall device. As an example, the power switch may be configured to control power delivery to or otherwise provide control signals to a powered device, such as one or more lighting fixtures, appliances, electronic devices, user devices, etc., in response to an audio command received as an audio input at the power switch.

[0046] In some embodiments, the audio input may be used to take actions that facilitate the operation of the power switch or a load powered by the power switch. For example, the audio input may be transmitted to one or more devices for implementing a digital audio assistant service. The digital audio assistant service may process the audio input to identify one or more voice commands and take actions in response to the search command. As examples, the digital audio assistant may access search results, conduct online shopping, play music, set appointments / reminders, perform tasks, control networked devices, etc.

[0047] In some embodiments, the audio input may be processed (e.g., using a classifier model, such as a machine learning model) to recognize certain sounds. For example, the audio input may be processed to recognize sounds associated with, for example, smoke alarms, environmental sensor alarms, breaking glass, etc. The power switch may be configured to take appropriate actions in response to the sounds. For example, the power switch may provide an audio output that alerts a user to a dangerous condition. The power switch may transmit data associated with the dangerous condition to a monitoring service and / or a user so that an appropriate response may be implemented. The power switch may control one or more powered loads in response to the dangerous condition, such as lighting a space, de-energizing one or more appliances, etc.

[0048] The power switch may include an audio output device (e.g., a speaker) for providing an audio output in response to an audio input. In some embodiments, the audio output device may be a 20 millimeter (mm) speaker. The audio output may be a response to one or more audio commands received as an audio input by one or more microphones located on the in-wall device. The audio output device may also be used, for example, to play music or play sounds associated with a connected media device (e.g., a television).

[0049] In some embodiments, a user may interface with the power switch via a user device, which is connected to the power switch via a communication link. For example, a user may access an application implemented on a user device (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a wearable device, a display with one or more processors, etc.). The application may present a graphical user interface or other user interface (e.g., an audio interface) to the user. The user may interact with the graphical user interface to control the settings and / or operation of the power switch. Signals associated with user interactions may be transmitted to the power switch, for example, over a network to control and / or adjust the settings of the power switch. Additionally and / or in an alternative, data collected by the power switch (e.g., one or more sensors, power meters, etc. associated with the power switch) may be transmitted to the user device for presentation to the user.

[0050] In some example embodiments, the power switch may include a housing that can be mounted on or at least partially within a surface, such as a wall, panel, ceiling, floor, or other surface. The housing may include a front panel. When the power switch is mounted on a surface, at least a portion of the front panel may be visible to a user.

[0051] The power switch may include an interface element disposed on the front panel. The interface element is operable to receive user input to control the operability of the power switch. For example, in some embodiments, the interface element may be a rocker button or a switch. When the rocker button is pressed in a first direction, the power switch may be controlled to deliver power to the powered load. When the rocker button is pressed in a second direction, the power switch may be controlled to disconnect the power to the powered load. In this way, the user may interact with the interface element to control the delivery of power to one or more powered loads. Other suitable interface elements may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, such as a two-state switch, a dimmer knob, a slider, a touch screen, a touch pad, etc.

[0052] In some embodiments, the rocker button may include one or more capacitive touch sensors or other touch sensors. This may allow a user to interact with the rocker button without having to mechanically manipulate the rocker button. For example, a user may control the power switch to turn power on or off to a powered device by performing a finger swipe on the surface of the rocker button. As an example, a vertical swipe may be used to power on and off one or more powered devices. A horizontal swipe may be used to change the operating mode of the power switch (e.g., from a passive listening mode to an active listening mode). A circular swipe (e.g., clockwise and / or counterclockwise) may be used, for example, to control dimming of one or more light sources powered by the power switch.

[0053] The power switch may include a power interrupter that is operable to control the delivery of power to the powered load based at least in part on a user interaction with an interface element. The power interrupter may be any suitable device configured to interrupt and / or release the interruption of power to the powered load. For example, in some embodiments, the power interrupter may be a thyristor (e.g., a TRIAC device), a semiconductor switching element (e.g., a transistor), a relay, a contactor, etc., which is controlled to provide power or not to provide power to the powered load. The power interrupter may be controlled based at least in part on a user interaction with an interface element. The power interrupter may also be controlled based on a signal received at the power switch through, for example, a communication interface (e.g., in response to a signal received through a network from a user device such as a smart phone, a tablet computer, a wearable device, a laptop computer, or other device).

[0054] The power switch may include one or more microphones configured to obtain audio input. For example, the power switch may include a first microphone and a second microphone. The power switch may include an audio output device, such as a speaker. The first microphone, the second microphone, and the speaker may be arranged in the power switch to provide enhanced audio performance of the power switch.

[0055] For example, in some embodiments, the front panel of the power switch may include a front panel with a rocker button. A speaker may be located behind the rocker button. The location of the speaker behind the rocker button may allow the sound emitted from the speaker to be amplified, thereby reducing the need for a large speaker. In this way, a smaller speaker may be used while maintaining the loud, full sound that can typically be obtained from a larger speaker. An acoustic gap may be incorporated around the sides of the rocker button to allow sound to escape from the power switch while hiding the appearance of the speaker from the front of the power switch.

[0056] The front panel may further include a first button and a second button located vertically below the rocker button. In some embodiments, a Fresnel lens may be disposed between the first button and the second button. The first button may, for example, be used to pair the power switch with one or more powered loads over a communication link (e.g., low energy Bluetooth, etc.). The second button may be used as an air gap switch. One or more sensors (e.g., a passive infrared sensor, an ambient light sensor, etc.) may be located behind the Fresnel lens.

[0057] The first microphone may be disposed in the first switch. The second microphone may be disposed in the second switch. In this way, the positioning of the first microphone and the second microphone may be used, for example, for beam sweeping to determine the origin of the sound in the space. In addition, the positions of the first microphone and the second microphone may be positioned away from the speaker so that there is less sound projected from the speaker to the microphone. More specifically, the first microphone and the second microphone may be located at the lower left and lower right corners of the power switch, respectively, thereby creating a large separation from the speaker located near the top of the power switch. This can achieve efficient operation of audio echo cancellation using microphones. In some embodiments, the sound deflector may be positioned relative to the speaker to increase performance (e.g., increase the ability of audio cancellation) by deflecting the sound away from the microphone.

[0058] In some embodiments, the power switch may include one or more indicators, such as a light ring and / or light bar. For example, the power switch may include a ring of light emitting diodes (LEDs) or other light sources positioned behind the rocker button. The rocker button may be made of a plastic material that acts as a light pipe and light diffuser for the light emitted from the LED ring, such that a light ring is depicted on the rocker button.

[0059] In some embodiments, the light ring can be controlled in response to various actions, such as in response to voice commands. For example, in some embodiments, the light ring can be controlled to be displayed in response to a voice command received via the one or more microphones. Once the voice command is completed, the light ring can be turned off or no longer illuminated. In some embodiments, various different animation sequences can be displayed in response to detecting different voice commands or other user inputs. For example, a circular animation configured to simulate a rotating circle can be displayed in response to detecting a voice command.

[0060] In some embodiments, a night light (e.g., a light bar) may be disposed on the front of the rocker button. The night light may provide ambient lighting at night, allowing the user to easily locate the power switch in the dark. The color and / or brightness of the night light may be specified as part of the settings associated with the power switch (e.g., via an application implemented on the user device). In some embodiments, the night light may be disposed in the center of the light ring.

[0061] The power switch may have various other features to enhance the functionality of the device. For example, in some embodiments, the power switch may have power metering incorporated into the power switch. Power metering may be implemented, for example, by measuring the voltage and / or current flowing through the load wires passing through the power switch. The current may be measured, for example, using a sense resistor. The voltage may be measured using, for example, a voltage divider. The power flowing through the load wires may be calculated (e.g., using one or more processors located on and / or remote from the power switch) based on the measured current and voltage.

[0062] Information from power metering can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, in some embodiments, data indicating power consumption can be transmitted to a user device (e.g., via a network) to provide the user with feedback (e.g., real-time feedback) on the power consumption of one or more powered loads powered by the power switch. As another example, in some embodiments, the power switch and / or a device communicating with the power switch can process data indicating power consumption to detect when the power delivered to the powered load exceeds the rated power associated with the powered load. The power switch can be configured to automatically reduce the power delivered to the powered load to a safe level. In addition, an alert can be transmitted to the user.

[0063] As used herein, an "alert" provided by a power switch can be an audio alert, a visual alert, an electronic data communication, a display on a user interface associated with a device in communication with the power switch, and the like. For example, an audio alert can be provided via a speaker in the power switch. A visual alert can be provided via one or more indicators (e.g., a light ring, a night light, etc.). A visual alert can also be provided by controlling one or more lighting devices powered by the power switch. An alert can be provided by transmitting data from the power switch to another device over a communication link. For example, data associated with the alert can be transmitted to a user device. The user device can then provide an audio alert, a visual alert (e.g., via a graphical user interface), a tactile alert, and the like.

[0064] In some embodiments, the power switch may include a near field communication (NFC) tag. The near field communication tag may allow the power switch to pair with another device (e.g., a user device) for communication without requiring, for example, a pairing code. The NFC tag may, for example, be located behind a rocker button, allowing it to be positioned on the front of the power switch. This may allow the NFC tag to interface with an NFC-compatible user device.

[0065] In some embodiments, the power switch may include an ambient light sensor. Signals from the ambient light sensor may, for example, be used to implement a control action (e.g., control of power delivery to one or more powered loads) based on ambient lighting in the space. In some embodiments, the ambient light sensor may, for example, be located behind a Fresnel lens.

[0066] In some embodiments, the power switch may include a passive infrared (PIR) sensor. The PIR sensor may, for example, be located behind a Fresnel lens disposed at the front of the power switch. The PIR sensor may, for example, be used to detect motion in the vertical and / or horizontal directions. This may be used for gesture-based control of the power switch.

[0067] In some embodiments, gesture control may allow a user to operate a power switch without physically touching the power switch. As an example, a user may turn on the power switch to deliver power to a powered load by moving his hand in a vertical direction from the bottom of the power switch toward the top of the power switch. A user may turn off the power switch to interrupt power to a powered load by moving his hand in a vertical direction from the top of the power switch toward the bottom of the power switch. Dimming of the power switch may be achieved, for example, by rotating a finger in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction in front of the power switch. Other suitable non-touch gestures may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] In some embodiments, the one or more processors may obtain data indicating an active listening mode trigger condition. For example, data may be obtained via the one or more microphones of the power switch. Alternatively or in addition, data may be obtained via a passive infrared (PIR) sensor. In this way, the data indicating the active listening mode trigger condition may include audio input received via the one or more speakers and / or gesture data obtained via the PIR sensor. In response to detecting an active listening mode trigger condition, the one or more processors may be configured to change the operating mode of the power switch from a passive listening mode to an active listening mode. When the power switch is operating in the active listening mode, the one or more microphones of the power switch may be activated to detect one or more voice commands provided by the user.

[0069] Referring now to the drawings, example embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described. Figure 1-3An example power switch 100 is depicted according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 A perspective view of a power switch 100 is depicted. Figure 2 A front view of the power switch 100 is depicted. Figure 3 An exploded view of the power switch 100 is depicted.

[0070] The power switch 100 may be a wall mounted device that may be mounted on a surface or at least partially within a surface, such as a wall, floor, panel, ceiling, or other surface. The power switch 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 houses and / or contains one or more components of the power switch 100. The housing 102 may include a front panel 105 and a frame 106. The front panel 105 may be a visible portion of the power switch 100 when mounted on a surface or at least partially within a surface. The frame 106 may house various components of the power switch 100, such as one or more circuit boards 150, 160 having electronic components associated with the power switch 100.

[0071] One or more of the circuit boards 150 and 160 may contain various electronic components associated with the power switch 100, such as one or more processors, one or more memory devices, one or more circuits for wireless communication, and other components. Fig.10 Example electronic components associated with the power switch 100 are discussed.

[0072] Still refer to Figure 1-3 , the power switch 100 may receive conductors 202, 204, and 206 for delivering power to one or more powered loads. For example, power may be delivered to the power switch 100 from a power source (e.g., a circuit breaker, a panel, etc.) via conductors 204 and 206. In some embodiments, conductor 204 may be a hot conductor. Conductor 206 may be a neutral conductor. Conductor 202 may be a load conductor (e.g., a load wire) for delivering power to one or more powered loads (e.g., a lighting fixture, an electronic device, a powered socket, an appliance, a machine, etc.).

[0073] The power switch 100 can control the delivery of power to one or more powered loads via the conductor 202 via a power interrupter. The power interrupter controls whether power is delivered via the conductor 202. Figure 1-3 In the example embodiment of the power switch 100 shown in FIG. 1 , the power interrupter is a thyristor 155 (e.g., a TRIAC). When the thyristor 155 is in a first state, power is conducted to the one or more powered loads via the conductor 202. When the thyristor 155 is in a second state, power is not conducted to the one or more powered loads via the conductor 202.

[0074] Aspects of the present disclosure are discussed with reference to thyristor power interrupters for purposes of illustration and discussion.Other suitable devices and / or components may be used to control power delivery via conductor 202, such as power semiconductors, relays, contactors, mechanical switches, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0075] The state of the thyristor 155 may be controlled based on various inputs. For example, the state of the thyristor 155 may be controlled based on user input received at an interface element, such as a rocker button of the power switch 100 or the switch 110. The state of the thyristor 155 may also be controlled based on signals received over a communication link from other devices (e.g., a user device such as a smart phone, tablet computer, wearable device, laptop computer, display with one or more processors).

[0076] For example, still refer to Figure 1-3 , the front panel 105 may include a rocker button 110, a foot housing 108, and a heat sink 112. The rocker button 110 may be received in the foot housing 108. The rocker button 110 may rotate about an axis passing through the center of the rocker button 110, such that the rocker button 110 may rotate in a first direction when a user presses a top portion of the rocker button 110 and may rotate in a second direction when a user presses a bottom portion of the rocker button 110.

[0077] The rocker button 110 may interface with a rocker plunger 114. The rocker plunger 114 may pass through an aperture 109 defined in the foot housing 108 and an aperture 113 defined in the heat sink 112. The rocker plunger 114 may engage an actuator 116 located on the circuit board 150. The actuator 116 may provide a signal for control of the thyristor 155 based on user input via the rocker button 110. For example, when the user presses the rocker button 110 to rotate the rocker button 110 in a first direction, the thyristor 155 may be controlled in a first state to allow power to be delivered to one or more powered loads via the conductor 202. When the user presses the rocker button 110 to rotate the rocker button 110 in a second direction, the thyristor 155 may be controlled in a second state to stop delivering power to one or more powered loads via the conductor 202.

[0078] like Figure 1-3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the front panel 105 may further include a first button 122 and a second button 124. A Fresnel lens 126 may be disposed between the first button 122 and the second button 124. A user may interact with the first button 122 and the second button 124 to control various operations of the power switch 100.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first button 122 may be a pairing button. More specifically, a user may interact with the first button 122 (e.g., press and / or pull out the first button 122) to initiate a pairing sequence with another device, such as a powered load, another power switch, or a user device. The pairing sequence is used to enable communication between the power switch 100 and the other device. For example, the pairing sequence may be used to allow communication between the power switch 100 and the other device using a direct peer-to-peer communication protocol. Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, any of a number of suitable interactions (e.g., a user interaction sequence) via the first button may be used to initiate the pairing sequence.

[0080] In some embodiments, the second button 124 may be an air gap switch. User interaction with the air gap switch may be used to remove power from the power switch 100 and / or the one or more powered loads. In some embodiments, the user may interact with the second button 124 by pulling the second button 124 away from the front panel 105. The second button 124 may be associated with a long plunger arm so that when the second button 124 is pulled away from the front panel 105, power to the power switch 100 and one or more connected loads is removed. In some embodiments, the user may interact with the second button 124 by pushing the second button 124 toward the front panel 105. For example, the user may push the second button 124 toward the front panel 105 to perform one or more functions. As an example, the one or more functions may include activating a digital voice assistant service.

[0081] Figure 4 A perspective view of an example assembly including a first button 122 and a second button 124 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. As shown, the first button 122 and the second button 124 can be coupled to a single flexure plate 125. The single flexure plate 125 can be connected to a printed circuit board 150 ( Figure 3 As shown), the complexity of the power switch 100 is reduced.

[0082] View now Figure 1-4 , the power switch 100 may include a first microphone 142 and a second microphone 144. The first microphone 142 may be disposed in the first button 122. The second microphone 144 may be disposed in the second button 124. The first microphone 142 may be sealed in plastic. The first microphone 142 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 150 using a flexible printed circuit (FPC) cable, which allows the first button 122 to be pressed up and down while still maintaining a connection to the printed circuit board 150. The second microphone 144 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 150 using a flexible printed circuit (FPC) cable, which allows the second button 124 to be pressed up and down while still maintaining a connection to the printed circuit board 150.

[0083] Audio data received at the first microphone 142 and / or the second microphone 144 may be communicated to one or more processors (eg, on and / or remote from the power switch 100). As described in more detail below, the audio data may be processed to provide audio responsiveness functionality.

[0084] In some embodiments, the first microphone 142 and / or the second microphone 144 may each be covered with a membrane. More specifically, the membrane may include a water-resistant material. In this way, the membrane may prevent moisture from reaching the microphones 142, 144.

[0085] Figure 5 Depiction Figure 1-3 100, wherein the rocker button 110 is removed. As shown, the power switch 100 includes an antenna 175. The antenna 175 can be used to wirelessly transmit and receive data and other signals on one or more communication links. The antenna 175 is positioned behind the rocker button 110 to achieve increased communication capabilities. This can be important when the power switch 100 is installed in a metal electrical box (e.g., single, double, triple, etc.). Positioning the antenna 175 as far forward as possible allows the antenna 175 to remain outside the metal electrical box. In this way, a reduction in signal strength can be prevented.

[0086] In some embodiments, antenna 175 may be a multi-band antenna capable of transmitting and / or receiving information over multiple frequency bands, so that data and other signals may be communicated to other devices using different protocols and / or communication channels. For example, antenna 175 may be configured for communication over a Wi-Fi band (e.g., approximately 2.4 GHz) and a Bluetooth band (e.g., approximately 5 GHz). As used herein, use of the term "about" in conjunction with a numerical value is intended to refer to within 20% of the stated quantity.

[0087] Still refer to Figure 5 , the power switch 100 may include an audio output device, such as a speaker 130. The speaker 130 may be circular in shape. The speaker 130 may be disposed behind the rocker button 110. The speaker 130 may be housed in a recess defined in the foot housing 108. The speaker 130 may be configured to provide an audio output, as will be described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the speaker 130 may include a ported speaker box. In some embodiments, the speaker 130 may include a sealed chamber speaker box. In some embodiments, the speaker 130 may be a 20 mm speaker.

[0088] In some embodiments, the power switch 100 may include a sound deflector 135. The sound deflector 135 may deflect sound emitted from the speaker 130 away from the first microphone 142 and the second microphone 144. The sound deflector 135 may be disposed around a bottom portion of the speaker 130. The sound deflector 135 may reduce the amount of sound projected downward toward the first microphone 142 and the second microphone 144. This may increase the performance of audio echo cancellation.

[0089] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, a gap may be defined between an interface element (eg, rocker button 110) and a foot housing 108 in a front panel 105 of the power switch 100. For example, Figure 6 Depiction Figure 1 A close-up of portion 213 of power switch 100 is shown. As shown, gap 134 is defined around at least a portion of the edge of rocker button 110 and foot housing 108. Gap 134 may be a "sound gap" that allows sound to emanate from speaker 130 behind rocker button 110.

[0090] See again Figure 5 , the power switch 100 may include an LED board 170. The LED board 170 may include a plurality of LEDs for providing indicators via the rocker button 110. More specifically, the rocker button 110 may be made of a material such that the rocker button 110 diffusely transmits light emitted from the plurality of LEDs to the front of the rocker button 110 to provide one or more indications. For example, the rocker button 110 may be formed of a plastic material that may act as a light pipe and light diffuser. In some embodiments, a light blocking housing may extend from the LED board 170 to the rocker button 110 to prevent light from leaking out.

[0091] See especially Figure 5 , the LED board 170 may include an LED ring 172 having a plurality of LEDs arranged in a ring. The LED ring 172 may be used to provide a light ring indicator. The LED board 170 may also include an LED 174 within the LED ring 172 at a central portion of the LED board 170, which may be used to act as a night light indicator.

[0092] Figure 7 A front view of an example power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted, wherein a light ring indicator 210 is illuminated on the rocker button 110. The light ring indicator 210 may be displayed in response to one or more voice commands received at the power switch 100. For example, the light ring indicator 210 may be used in conjunction with an implementation of a digital voice assistant service.

[0093] As an example, the light ring indicator 210 can be displayed when a voice command is detected. Various animations can be implemented using the light ring indicator 210 in response to the voice command. For example, during the completion of the voice command, the light ring indicator 210 can be controlled to provide a spinning ring animation. Once the voice command is completed, the light ring indicator 210 can be turned off. When the light ring indicator 210 is turned off, the light ring indicator 210 is not visible.

[0094] In some embodiments, when a user approaches the power switch 100 as detected by one or more sensors (e.g., a PIR sensor), a light ring indicator 210 may be displayed. The presence of the light ring indicator 210 may provide an indication that the power switch 100 is ready to receive and respond to voice commands from the user. Other suitable configurations of indicators may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0095] Figure 8 A front view of an example power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted, wherein a night light indicator 220 is illuminated on the rocker button 110. The night light indicator 220 is illustrated as a horizontal bar. However, other suitable configurations of the night light indicator 220 may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0096] The night light indicator 220 can be normally on, allowing ambient light. In some embodiments, the night light indicator 220 can be illuminated when the ambient light sensor (e.g., located behind the Fresnel lens 126) determines that the light in the space has decreased below a threshold. In this way, the night light indicator 220 can help the user easily locate the power switch 100 in reduced light.

[0097] See again Figure 1-3 , the power switch 100 may include one or more sensors located behind the Fresnel lens 126. For example, the power switch 100 may include a passive infrared (PIR) sensor 180. The PIR sensor 180 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 150. A PIR cover 182 may be disposed on the PIR sensor 180. The PIR sensor 180 may be used, for example, to detect motion in a vertical and / or horizontal direction.

[0098] In some embodiments, the PIR sensor 180 may be used to detect a contactless user gesture in front of the power switch 100 to allow the user to operate the power switch 100 without touching the power switch 100. Example gestures may include a vertical swipe in front of the power switch 100. An upward vertical swipe may be used to place the power switch 100 in a first state to allow power to be delivered to one or more powered loads. A downward vertical swipe may be used to place the power switch 100 in a second state to stop delivering power to one or more powered loads. Circular gestures in a clockwise and / or counterclockwise direction may be used to control, for example, dimming of one or more light sources powered by the power switch 100. Other example gestures may be used to generate actions for the power switch 100. Additionally, other sensors such as capacitive sensors may be used to detect gestures without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0099] The power switch 100 may further include an ambient light sensor (not shown) disposed behind the Fresnel lens 126. The ambient light sensor may be used to detect ambient lighting in a space. A signal indicative of ambient lighting may be used by the power switch 100 for a variety of purposes. For example, when the ambient light drops below a threshold, the power switch 100 may illuminate a night light indicator. The power switch 100 may automatically turn on or off a light source powered by the power switch 100 based on the detected ambient light. The power switch 100 may be placed in one or more operating modes (e.g., a listening mode) based at least in part on the detected ambient light.

[0100] Fig. 9 1 depicts a side view of an example power switch 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 , the frame 106 of the power switch 100 may include an access door 190. The access door 190 may allow access to a programming header on a printed circuit board disposed within the frame 106. A user may insert the programming header to program the power switch 100 and / or otherwise modify software, firmware, or other computer-readable instructions executed by one or more processors on the power switch 100. In this way, the access door 190 may allow a technician to easily access to program the power switch 100 without disassembly. In some embodiments, a tamper-proof sticker may be placed on the door to hide the appearance of the access door 190. A removed sticker may indicate unauthorized access to the power switch 100 via the access door 190. In some embodiments, the frame 106 may include a series of holes configured to be suitable for access to the programming header for programming the power switch 100.

[0101] Fig.10A block diagram depicting an example control system 200 of an example power switch 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The control system includes one or more processors 240 and one or more memory devices 260. For example, the one or more processors 240 may include dual (e.g., two) processors. Alternatively, the one or more processors 240 may include quad (e.g., four) processors.

[0102] The one or more processors 240 may be any suitable processing device that performs operations to control a component (e.g., any of the components described herein), such as a microprocessor, an integrated circuit (e.g., an application specific integrated circuit), a field programmable gate array, etc. The one or memory devices 260 may be any suitable medium for storing computer-readable instructions and data. For example, the one or more memory devices 260 may include random access memory, such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static memory (SRAM), or other volatile memory. Additionally and / or in the alternative, the one or more memory devices may include non-volatile memory, such as ROM, PROM, EEPROM, flash memory, optical storage device, magnetic storage device, etc.

[0103] The one or more memory devices 260 may store computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors 240, cause the one or more processors 240 to perform operations, such as any of the operations described herein (e.g., Fig.12 The instructions may be software written in any suitable programming language, or may be implemented in hardware.

[0104] The one or more memory devices 260 may also store data that may be obtained, received, accessed, written, manipulated, created, and / or stored. As an example, the one or more memory devices 260 may store data associated with one or more classifier models (e.g., machine learning classifier models) that may be used to classify audio data received at the power switch 100 into one or more sounds (e.g., smoke alarm, breaking glass, etc.). Storing the classifier models locally in the one or more memory devices 260 may allow local processing of the audio data to identify potential out-of-band conditions.

[0105] Still refer to Fig.10, the one or more processors 240 may communicate with the audio circuit 230 and / or may be configured to control its operation. The audio circuit 230 may be configured to receive and process audio data received from, for example, the first microphone 142 and the second microphone 144. The audio circuit 230 may also provide an audio output for the speaker 130. In some embodiments, the audio circuit 230 may include one or more of a digital signal processor (DSP), a codec, an amplifier, etc. For example, the audio circuit 230 may be a low-power smart codec with a dual-core audio DSP. In some embodiments, the audio circuit 230 may include a CS47L24 smart codec with a dual-core DSP manufactured by Cirrus Logic.

[0106] In some embodiments, the one or more processors 240 may communicate with a microcontroller 280 and / or may be configured to control its operation. The microcontroller 280 may be configured to control the TRIAC 155 and / or provide a signal to the processor 240 for controlling components based on input received via an interface element on the power switch 100, such as a rocker button 110, a first button 122, a second button 124, or other interface elements. The microcontroller 280 may also receive a signal from a PIR sensor 180. The signal from the PIR sensor 180 may be processed for gesture-based control (e.g., control based on contactless gestures) of the power switch 100. In some embodiments, the microcontroller 280 may be a STM32F031G4U6 microcontroller manufactured by STMicroelectronics.

[0107] The one or more processors 240 may communicate with the power meter 244 and / or may be configured to control its operation. The power meter 244 may measure the voltage and / or current flowing through the load wire passing through the power switch 100. The current may be measured, for example, using a sensing resistor. The voltage may be measured using, for example, a voltage divider. The power flowing through the load wire may be calculated (e.g., using one or more processors 240 located on and / or away from the power switch 100) based on the measured current and voltage. In some embodiments, the power meter may be a STPM32 metering circuit manufactured by STMicroelectronics.

[0108] The one or more processors 240 may communicate with an ambient light sensor 242. Signals from the ambient light sensor 242 may be used, for example, by the processor 240 to implement control actions (e.g., control of power delivery to one or more powered loads) based on ambient lighting in the space. In some embodiments, the ambient light sensor 242 may be a LTR-329ALS-01 digital light sensor manufactured by Mouser Electronics.

[0109] The one or more processors 240 may communicate with the LED driver circuit 270 and the LED board 170 to control the operation of the indicator for the power switch 100. The LED driver circuit 270 may provide power to the LED board 170 for driving the plurality of LEDs. The one or more processors 240 may control the emission of light from one or more LEDs on the LED board 170 to provide various indicators (e.g., light rings, night lights, etc.) as described herein. In some embodiments, the LED driver circuit 270 may be an IS31FL3235 LED driver manufactured by Integrated Silicon Solution.

[0110] The one or more processors 240 may communicate with a communication interface 272. The communication interface 272 may allow data communication using the antenna 175 via, for example, one or more wireless links. The communication interface 272 may include any circuits, components, software, etc. for communicating on various communication links (e.g., networks). In some embodiments, the communication interface 272 may include, for example, one or more of a communication controller, a receiver, a transceiver, a transmitter, a port, a conductor, software, and / or hardware for transmitting data. In some embodiments, the communication interface 272 may include a SX-SDPAC module manufactured by Silex Technology.

[0111] Example communication technologies and / or protocols may include, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth mesh networking, near field communication, Thread, Transport Layer Security (TLS), Wi-Fi (e.g., IEEE 802.11), Wi-Fi Direct (for peer-to-peer communications), Z-Wave, ZigBee, HaLow, cellular communications, LTE, low power wide area networking, VSAT, Ethernet, Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA), power line communications (PLC), digital line transmission (DLT), etc. Other suitable communication technologies and / or protocols may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0112] Fig.11 An example computing environment 300 in which a power switch 100 may be integrated is depicted according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the power switch 100 may communicate with various devices, such as a powered load 310 and / or one or more user devices 320, 360. The powered load 310 may be any device powered by the power switch 100, such as one or more lighting fixtures or other light sources, appliances, electronic devices, consumer devices, ceiling fans, machines, systems, or other powered loads. The user devices 320, 360 may be, for example, one or more smartphones, laptops, desktop computers, tablet computers, wearable devices, media devices, displays with one or more processors, or other suitable devices.

[0113] The power switch 100 can communicate with the powered load 310, for example, via a direct communication link (e.g., a direct wired or wireless communication link) or via a network such as a local area network 340. The direct communication link can be implemented, for example, using low-energy Bluetooth or other suitable communication protocols. The power switch 100 can control the delivery of power to the powered load 310 via the load conductors. In some embodiments, the power switch 100 can provide a control signal via the direct communication link to control the operation of the powered load (e.g., fan speed, dimming level, etc.).

[0114] The power switch 100 may communicate with the user devices 320, 360, for example, via a direct communication link (e.g., a direct wired or wireless communication link) or via a network such as a local area network 340. The direct communication link may be implemented, for example, using low-energy Bluetooth or other suitable communication protocols. In some embodiments, a user may control, view information, and / or specify one or more settings associated with the power switch 100 via a graphical user interface implemented on a display of the user device 320, 360. For example, a user may access an application implemented on the user device 320. The application may present a graphical user interface on a display of the user device 320. The user may interact with the graphical user interface to control the operation of the power switch 100 and / or one or more powered loads 310.

[0115] The local area network 340 may be any suitable type of network or combination of networks that allows communication between devices. In some embodiments, the network may include one or more of a secure network, a Wi-Fi network, an IoT network, a mesh network, one or more peer-to-peer communication links, and / or some combination thereof, and may include any number of wired or wireless links. Communication on the network 340 may be achieved, for example, via a communication interface using any type of protocol, protection scheme, encoding, format, encapsulation, etc.

[0116] The computing environment 300 may include a gateway 355 that may allow access to a wide area network 350. The wide area network 350 may be, for example, the Internet, a cellular network, or other network, and may include any number of wired or wireless links. Communications on the wide area network 350 may be implemented, for example, via a communication interface using any type of protocol, protection scheme, encoding, format, encapsulation, etc. As shown, the power switch 100 may transmit information to remote computing systems 380 and 390 and other remote computing systems via the gateway 355 over the network 350.

[0117] The computing environment 300 may include a remote computing system 380. The remote computing system 380 may be associated with a cloud computing platform for implementing one or more services for the power switch 100. Data collected by the cloud computing platform may be processed and stored and provided, for example, to a user device 320 (e.g., for presentation in a graphical user interface).

[0118] The computing environment 300 may include a remote computing system 390. The remote computing system 390 may be associated with a service accessed by the power switch 100, such as a digital audio assistant service. Audio data collected by the power switch 100 may be transmitted to the remote computing system 390 for processing of voice commands. Data responsive to the voice commands may be transmitted to the power switch 100 for output (e.g., by the speaker 130) and / or to the user device 320 (e.g., for display in a graphical user interface). In this way, the power switch 100 may act as a source of voice commands for a digital voice assistant service.

[0119] Remote computing systems 380 and 390 may include one or more computing devices (e.g., servers) having one or more processors and one or more memory devices. Computing systems 380 and 390 may be distributed so that their components are located in different geographic regions. The techniques discussed herein refer to computer-based systems and actions taken by computer-based systems and information sent to and from computer-based systems. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the inherent flexibility of computer-based systems enables a large number of possible configurations, combinations, and division of tasks and functionality between and among components. For example, the processes discussed herein may be implemented using a single computing device or multiple computing devices working in combination. Databases, memories, instructions, and applications may be implemented on a single system or distributed across multiple systems. Distributed components may operate sequentially or in parallel.

[0120] Fig.12 A flow chart depicts an example method 400 for controlling a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 400 may, for example, use the power switch 100 and / or Fig.11 One or more aspects of the computing environment 300 may be implemented. Fig.12 The steps performed in a particular order are depicted for purposes of illustration and discussion. A person skilled in the art will understand, using the disclosure provided herein, that various steps of any method described herein may be omitted, expanded to include other steps, performed simultaneously, rearranged, and / or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0121] At (402), method 400 may include obtaining data associated with a contactless gesture. The data associated with the contactless gesture may include, for example, a signal from a motion sensor such as a PIR sensor. As an example, a PIR sensor located behind a Fresnel lens in a power switch may send a signal to one or more processors on the power switch and / or one or more processes on a remote device via a communication interface. The signal may be processed to determine whether the signal indicates a contactless gesture in front of the power switch. A contactless gesture refers to a gesture that is performed without touching the power switch.

[0122] At (404), method 400 may include processing the data to identify a gesture type. For example, the data may be processed by one or more processors on and / or remote from the power switch to determine whether the data indicates a vertical swipe gesture, a horizontal swipe gesture, a circular swipe gesture, or other gesture.

[0123] At (406), method 400 may include determining a control action based on the contactless gesture type. For example, a lookup table, function, correlation matrix, or other data or model may associate one or more control actions with different gesture types. As an example, a vertical swipe may be associated with switching power on and off a powered device. A horizontal swipe may be associated with changing an operating mode of a power switch and / or accessing settings for the power switch. A circular swipe may be associated with, for example, dimming one or more light sources or controlling power flow (e.g., increasing or decreasing power) to one or more powered devices.

[0124] At (408), method 400 may include implementing a control action using the power switch. For example, the one or more processors in the power switch may control a power interrupter (e.g., a TRIAC) to control power delivery to one or more powered devices. The one or more processors may control the power switch to enter a different operating mode (e.g., a passive listening mode to an active listening mode). Other suitable control actions may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0125] At (410), method 400 may include providing an indicator associated with the control action. For example, the one or more processors may control one or more LEDs on the LED board to present a light ring indicator (e.g., with various animations) to represent a response to the contactless gesture. For example, the light ring indicator may appear to indicate to the user that the power switch is implementing a control action in response to the contactless gesture.

[0126] In some embodiments, sub-portions of the light ring indicator may be displayed (e.g., on a rocker button) to indicate dimming levels and / or other settings (e.g., fan speed). One-quarter of the light ring indicator may be displayed when the light source is dimmed to approximately 25% of full power or the fan speed is reduced to approximately 25% of full speed. One-half of the light ring indicator may be displayed when the light source is dimmed to approximately 50% of full power or the fan speed is at approximately 50% of full speed. Three-quarters of the light ring indicator may be displayed when the light source is dimmed to approximately 75% of full power or the fan speed is reduced to approximately 75% of full speed. The full light ring may be displayed when the light source is at full power or the fan is operating at full speed.

[0127] More precisely, Fig.13A , 13B , 13C and 13D depict example displays of indicators on an in-wall device (e.g., power switch 100) according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig.13A In the example shown, the power switch 100 can be configured to display a quarter portion of the light ring indicator 210 when the light source is dimmed to a first level or the fan speed is at a first speed. Fig. 13B In the example shown, the power switch 100 can be configured to display one-half of the light ring indicator 210 when the light source is dimmed to a first level or when the ceiling fan is operating at a second speed (eg, a medium speed). Fig. 13C In the example shown, the power switch 100 can be configured to display three-quarters of the light ring indicator 210 when the light source is dimmed to the third level or when the ceiling fan is operating at a third speed (eg, high speed). Fig.13D In the example shown, the power switch 100 can be configured to display the full light ring indicator 210 when the light source is operating at full power or when the ceiling fan is operating at full speed.

[0128] Other suitable indicators indicating operating parameters of the powered load may be displayed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in another embodiment, the power switch 100 may be configured to display one-third of the light ring indicator 210 when the light source is dimmed to a first level or when the ceiling fan is operating at a first speed (e.g., low speed). The power switch 100 may be configured to display two-thirds of the light ring indicator 210 when the light source is dimmed to a second level or when the ceiling fan is operating at a second speed (e.g., medium speed). The power switch 100 may be configured to display the full light ring indicator 210 when the light source is dimmed to a third level (e.g., full power) or when the ceiling fan is operating at a third speed (e.g., full speed).

[0129] In some embodiments, a user may control the dimming of one or more light sources based on an interaction with the light ring indicator 210. For example, a user may touch or place a finger, hand, or other stylus or device near the light ring indicator 210. The user may perform a tracking motion in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) around or near the light ring indicator 210 to increase the dimming level of the one or more light sources powered by the power switch. The user may perform a tracking motion in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) around or near the light ring indicator 210 to decrease the dimming level of the one or more light sources powered by the power switch.

[0130] As another example, the user may control the fan speed of one or more fans powered by the power switch based on interaction with the light ring indicator 210. For example, the user may touch or place a finger, hand, or other stylus or device near the light ring indicator 210. The user may perform a tracking motion in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) around or near the light ring indicator 210 to increase the fan speed of the one or more fans powered by the power switch. The user may perform a tracking motion in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) around or near the light ring indicator 210 to decrease the fan speed of the one or more fans powered by the power switch.

[0131] Fig.14 A representation of an example contactless gesture for controlling a power switch 100 according to example aspects of the present disclosure is depicted. For example, a user may move a hand 502 or other item in a vertical swipe 510 in front of the power switch 100. A signal from a PIR sensor located, for example, behind a Fresnel lens may be processed to identify the vertical swipe 510. The power switch 100 may bi-state switch power to a powered load based on the vertical swipe 510. For example, a vertical swipe in an upward direction may bi-state switch to power on a powered load. A vertical swipe in a downward direction may bi-state switch to power off a powered load.

[0132] Fig.15A representation of an example contactless gesture for controlling power to a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. For example, a user may move a hand 502 or other item in front of the power switch 100 in a horizontal swipe 520. A signal from a PIR sensor located, for example, behind a Fresnel lens may be processed to identify the horizontal swipe 520. The power switch 100 may change a mode or operation or access settings of the power switch based on the horizontal swipe 520. For example, a left horizontal swipe may change the power switch from a passive listening mode to an active listening mode for receiving one or more voice commands or other data for, for example, a digital audio assistant service. A right swipe may allow a user to access settings associated with the power switch (e.g., for pairing with other devices, controlling the color of one or more indicators, etc.). In some embodiments, the settings may be adjusted using a voice command provided from the user after the horizontal swipe is provided.

[0133] Fig.16 Representations of example contactless gestures for controlling power to a power switch according to example embodiments of the present disclosure are depicted. For example, a user may move a hand 502 or other item in a circular swipe 530 in front of the power switch 100. A signal from a PIR sensor located, for example, behind a Fresnel lens may be processed to identify the circular swipe 530. The power switch 100 may adjust a dimming level or other setting (e.g., fan speed) of one or more powered loads based on the circular swipe 530. For example, a circular swipe in a clockwise direction may increase the dimming level of one or more light sources and / or increase the fan speed. A circular swipe in a counterclockwise direction may decrease the dimming level of one or more light sources and / or decrease the fan speed.

[0134] Provided for illustration and discussion purposes Figure 14-16 An example non-contact gesture in FIG. A skilled artisan using the disclosure provided herein will understand that other suitable gestures may be used to control a power switch without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0135] Fig.17 A flow chart depicts an example method 600 for operating a power switch according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 600 may, for example, use the power switch 100 and / or Fig.11 One or more aspects of the computing environment 300 may be implemented. Fig.17 The steps performed in a particular order are depicted for purposes of illustration and discussion. A person skilled in the art will understand, using the disclosure provided herein, that various steps of any method described herein may be omitted, expanded to include other steps, performed simultaneously, rearranged, and / or modified in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0136] At (602), method 600 may include operating the power switch in a passive mode. In the passive mode, the power switch may be configured to process audio data to listen for trigger conditions, such as voice prompt commands, horizontal swipes, and / or trigger conditions associated with out-of-band conditions. In some embodiments, audio data is not recorded, stored, or otherwise processed when operating in the passive mode (except to identify a trigger condition or user presence).

[0137] At (604), method 600 may include obtaining data from a PIR sensor.For example, method 600 may include obtaining one or more signals from a PIR sensor disposed behind a Fresnel lens on a power switch.

[0138] At (606), method 600 may include obtaining data from one or more microphones.For example, method 600 may include obtaining data associated with audio input at a first microphone and data associated with audio input at a second microphone.

[0139] At (608), method 600 may include processing the data to determine data indicating the presence of a user. For example, data from the PIR sensor may be processed to identify movement of a user in a space associated with the power switch. Additionally and / or in the alternative, data from the one or more microphones may be processed to identify that a user may be in the space associated with the power switch due to the presence of a sound from the user.

[0140] In response to determining data indicating the presence of a user, method 600 may include controlling an indicator to indicate to the user that the power switch is ready to receive audio input (e.g., a voice prompt command for triggering an active listening mode). The indicator may be, for example, a light ring displayed on a rocker button of the power switch. As an example, the indicator may be normally off. However, when signals from the PIR sensor and / or one or more microphones indicate that a user is in the space, the indicator may be displayed to indicate to the user that the power switch is ready to receive audio input (e.g., for entering an active listening mode, as discussed in more detail below).

[0141] At (612), method 600 may include detecting an active mode triggering condition. According to an example aspect of the present disclosure, the active mode triggering condition may be a voice prompt command. The voice prompt command may be a preset voice command that, when used, is intended to invoke the active listening functionality of the power switch. For example, the voice prompt command may be a recognizable term or phrase, such as "Hello switch," "Listen now," "Hey, power device." In some embodiments, the voice prompt command may be associated with a digital assistant service, such as a digital assistant service provided by Amazon ("Alexa"), Apple ("Hey Siri"), Google ("Ok Google"), or other services. Other suitable conditions may be used as active triggering mode conditions. For example, detecting a horizontal swipe contactless gesture may be an active triggering mode condition.

[0142] At (614), method 600 may include implementing an active listening mode. The active listening mode may be used to control the power switch via one or more voice commands. Additionally, the one or more voice commands may be used to execute power switch derivative functions, such as for a digital audio assistant service.

[0143] Fig.18 A flow chart depicting an example method 700 associated with an active listening mode according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. At (712), the power switch may be controlled to listen to audio data via one or more microphones. Additionally, one or more indicators (e.g., a light ring indicator with animation) may be provided to the user to indicate that the power switch is operating in the active listening mode.

[0144] At (714), the audio data may be processed at the power switch. For example, the audio data may be formatted into one or more data packets for transmission to a digital audio assistant service.

[0145] At (716), the audio data may be transmitted to a digital assistant service (e.g., via an API). In some embodiments, aspects of the digital assistant service may be implemented locally at the power switch and / or at a device remote from the digital assistant service (e.g., a cloud computing system).

[0146] The digital assistant service may receive the audio data at (718). The digital assistant service may process the audio data using a speech recognition algorithm at (720) to identify one or more voice commands from the user.

[0147] At (722), the digital assistant service may determine responsiveness data to the voice command. Responsiveness data may be any data used by the digital assistant service to respond to a voice command or other audio data. For example, the responsiveness data may include a text string of a voice command provided by a user. The responsiveness data may include data associated with a voice response that will be played to the user (e.g., via a speaker in the power switch) in response to the user's voice command. The responsiveness data may include data in response to a request provided by the user via the voice command. For example, if the user asks about the weather via a voice command, the responsiveness data may include the weather. If the user asks to set a reminder item, the responsiveness data may include a confirmation that the reminder item has been set in the user's calendar. The above examples are provided by way of example. The responsiveness data may include data associated with any of a number of different actions that can be implemented using the digital assistant service. The responsiveness data may be transmitted to the power switch at (724).

[0148] At (726), responsiveness data may be received at the power switch. The responsiveness data may be processed at (730) to determine one or more control actions based on voice commands or audio data received at the power switch during the active listening mode. The control action may include, for example, controlling power delivery to one or more powered devices, replaying a voice response to a user, playing music requested by a user, or other suitable control actions. For example, the control action may include adjusting the volume of a television communicatively coupled to the power switch. Alternatively or in addition, the control action may include changing the channel displayed by the television. The control action may be implemented by the power switch at (732).

[0149] An example application of the active mode of the power switch may be to control the lighting in a space. For example, the power switch may control the power delivery to one or more light sources in the space. The user may use a preset voice command to put the power switch into active mode. The power switch may obtain an instruction of "turn off the lights" from the user via one or microphone when the switch is in active mode. The power switch may transmit audio data to a digital assistant service. The digital assistant service may process the audio data using speech recognition and send responsive data associated with turning off the lights to the power switch. The power switch may then control the power delivery to the light source to turn off the lights. A responsive audio output (e.g., in the form of human speech) may be provided to the user, such as "turn off the lights now."

[0150] Another example application of the active mode of the power switch may be to perform actions incidental to controlling the delivery of power to one or more powered devices. For example, a user may use a preset voice command to put the power switch into active mode. The power switch may obtain a command from the user via one or microphones when the switch is in active mode, "Tell me what the weather is like." The power switch may transmit the audio data to a digital assistant service. The digital assistant service may process the audio data using speech recognition and send responsive data associated with the current weather. The power switch may then provide a responsive audio output (e.g., in the form of human speech) to the user, such as "Sunny, 65 degrees."

[0151] Fig.19 An example lighting system 800 incorporating multiple power switches is depicted according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The lighting system 800 includes multiple lighting fixtures 802 (e.g., lamps) operable to provide lighting for a space 810 (e.g., a room). The lighting system 800 may include a first power switch 820 and a second power switch 830. The first power switch 820 and / or the second power switch 830 may include one or more aspects of any of the power switches described herein. The first power switch 520 may be disposed near a first entrance 812 of the space 810. The second power switch 830 may be disposed near a second entrance 814 of the space 810.

[0152] The first power switch 820 and / or the second power switch 830 may be configured to control power delivery to the one or more lighting fixtures 802 (or other powered loads) to control lighting within the space 810. In some embodiments, the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830 may provide 3-way switching functionality (or other multi-directional switching functionality in the presence of other switches, such as 4-way switching functionality).

[0153] In an example embodiment, the first power switch 820 may be a master power switch. The second power switch 830 may be a slave power switch that communicates with the first power switch via a wireless communication link 840 (e.g., a low-energy Bluetooth communication link or other suitable communication link). User interaction with the second power switch 830 may cause data to be transmitted to the first power switch 820 via the communication link 840 to control the light source 802. The first power switch 820 may also be configured to communicate with other devices (e.g., user devices, cloud computing systems, servers, etc.) on the second communication link 850 via one or more networks. The user may remotely interact with the second power switch 830 by communicating with the first power switch 820, which then relays data and other information to the second power switch 830 on the communication link 830. The relationship between the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830 has been described as a master-slave relationship. However, other suitable relationships (e.g., peer-to-peer) may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0154] In an example embodiment, the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830 can be paired with each other via user interaction with one or more interface elements of the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830. For example, in some embodiments, the user can manipulate the second button 124 ( Figure 1 More specifically, the user may move (eg, pull) the second button 124 away from the front panel 105 ( Figure 1 After pulling the second button 124 away from the front panel 150, the user can manipulate the first button 122 of the first power switch 820 ( Figure 1 ). More specifically, the user may press the first button 122 (e.g., a pairing button). Subsequently, while still pressing the first button 122, the user may move (e.g., push) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105. After moving (e.g., pushing) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105, the user may continue to press the first button 122 until a notification is received from one or more output devices of the first power switch 820. For example, the user may continue to press the first button 122 until the LED 174 ( Figure 5 ) flashes light of a predetermined color (e.g., blue).

[0155] After receiving the notification, the user may perform the same sequence of steps on the second power switch 830. More specifically, the user may move (eg, pull) the second button 124 of the second power switch 830 away from the front panel 105 ( Figure 1). After pulling the second button 124 away from the front panel 150, the user may press the first button 122 (e.g., a pairing button) of the second power switch 830. Subsequently, while still pressing the first button 122, the user may move (e.g., push) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105. After moving (e.g., pushing) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105, the user may continue to press the first button 122 until a notification is received from one or more output devices of the second power switch 830. For example, the user may continue to press the first button 122 until the LED 174 of the LED board 170 included in the second power switch 830 flashes light having a predetermined color (e.g., blue).

[0156] After receiving the notification (e.g., flashing blue light) from the second power switch 530, the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830 may provide a notification (e.g., audible, visible) to indicate that the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830 have been successfully paired with each other. For example, the notification may include the speaker 130 associated with the first power switch 820 and the speaker 130 associated with the second power switch 830 each emitting an audible noise (e.g., a beep). More specifically, the speaker 130 may emit a predetermined number of beeps, such as 5 beeps. Alternatively or in addition, the notification may include the LED 174 of the first power switch 820 and the LED 174 of the second power switch 830 flashing a predetermined number of times (e.g., 5 times). More specifically, the LED 174 of the first power switch 820 and the second power switch 830 may flash green.

[0157] Reference again Figure 1, via user interaction with one or more interface elements of the power switch 100, the power switch 100 may be configured as a switch (e.g., a fan switch). For example, in some embodiments, the user may manipulate the second button 124 of the power switch 100 to configure the power switch 100 as a switch. More specifically, the user may move (e.g., pull) the second button 124 away from the front panel 105. After pulling the second button 124 away from the front panel 105, the user may move the rocker button 110 to the first position. Subsequently, while still holding the rocker button 110 in the first position, the user may move (e.g., push) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105 of the power switch 100. After moving (e.g., pushing) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105, the user may continue to hold the rocker button 110 in the first position for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 5 seconds) until the power switch 100 provides some indication (e.g., audible, visual) indicating that the configuration is complete. For example, the sign may include an audible noise (e.g., one or more beeps) emitted via the speaker 130. Alternatively or in addition, the sign may include an LED ring 172 ( Figure 5 ) pulses a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times).

[0158] In an example embodiment, via user interaction with one or more interface elements of the power switch 100, the power switch 100 may be configured as a dimmer. For example, in some embodiments, the user may manipulate the second button 124 of the power switch 100 to configure the power switch 100 as a dimmer. More specifically, the user may move (e.g., pull) the second button 124 away from the front panel 105. After pulling the second button 124 away from the front panel 105, the user may move the rocker button 110 to the first position. Subsequently, while still holding the rocker button 110 in the first position, the user may move (e.g., push) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105. After moving (e.g., pushing) the second button 124 toward the front panel 105, the user may continue to hold the rocker button 110 in the first position for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 5 seconds) until the power switch 100 provides some sign (e.g., audible, visual) indicating that the configuration is complete. For example, the sign may include an audible noise (e.g., one or more beeps) via the speaker 130. Alternatively or in addition, the sign may include an LED ring 172 ( Figure 5 ) Pulses from 0% to 100% a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times).

[0159] In an example embodiment, a pairing sequence for enabling communication between the power switch 100 and the user device 320 may be initiated when the user physically contacts the power switch 100 with the user device 320. More specifically, the user may initiate the pairing sequence by tapping the user device 320 against the power switch 100 a predetermined number of times, for example, three times. In this way, situations where the user device 320 and the power switch 100 are inadvertently paired with each other may be reduced or eliminated. In some embodiments, the user may need to press the first button 122 of the power switch 100 immediately before tapping the user device 320 against the power switch 100.

[0160] In an example embodiment, both the power switch 100 and the user device 320 may include an accelerometer configured to detect that a user taps the user device 320 against the power switch 100 to initiate a pairing sequence. More specifically, the one or more processors of the power switch 100 may be configured to process data received from the accelerometer of the power switch 100. Alternatively or in addition, the one or more processors of the user device 320 may be configured to process data received from the accelerometer of the user device 320. In this way, the physical contact (e.g., tap) required to initiate a pairing sequence may be detected by the power switch 100, the user device 320, or both the power switch 100 and the user device 320.

[0161] In an example embodiment, the one or more microphones of the power switch 100 may detect an audible noise associated with tapping the user device 320 against the power switch 100. More specifically, the one or more microphones may provide one or more data signals indicative of the audible noise associated with tapping the user device 320 against the power switch 100. The one or more processors of the power switch 100 may be configured to process the data signals to detect that a user taps the user device 320 against the power switch 100. It should be appreciated that the one or more processors of the power switch 100 may process the data signals to recognize the audible noise associated with the user tapping the user device 320 against the power switch 100.

[0162] View now Fig. 20 and 21 , provides an example embodiment of a light blocker 900 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the light blocker 900 can be positioned at the LED ring 172 ( Figure 5 ). When the light blocker 900 is positioned above the LED ring 172, as will be discussed in more detail below, the light blocker 900 can improve the indication light ring 210 ( Figure 7 )’s visual appearance.

[0163] As shown, the light blocker 900 includes a body 910. The body 910 may include a first plurality of segments 912 and a second plurality of segments 914. In some embodiments, the light transmittance of the first plurality of segments 912 may be different from the light transmittance of the second plurality of segments 914. For example, the light transmittance of the first plurality of segments 912 may be greater than the light transmittance of the second plurality of segments 914. In this way, more light can pass through the first plurality of segments 912 than through the second plurality of segments 914.

[0164] In some embodiments, the first plurality of segments 912 and the second plurality of segments 914 are arranged in an alternating manner such that each segment in the first plurality of segments 912 is positioned between two adjacent segments in the second plurality of segments 914. As an example, the first plurality of segments 912 and the second plurality of segments 914 can be arranged in an alternating manner to form a ring 920. The light blocker 900 can be positioned at the LED board 170 ( Figure 5 ) so that the ring 920 of the main body 910 is aligned with the LED ring 172 ( Figure 5 ). More specifically, the light blocker 900 can be positioned above the LED board 170 so that each of the second plurality of segments 914 is aligned with one LED of the LED ring 172. Since the light transmittance of the second plurality of segments 914 is less than the light transmittance of the first plurality of segments 912, the light blocker 900 can reduce or eliminate hot spots in the indicator light ring 210. In this way, the light blocker 900 can improve the visual appearance of the indicator light ring 210.

[0165] In some embodiments, the body 910 of the light blocker 900 may include a segment 930 positioned at the center of the ring 920. In this way, the segment 930 may be aligned with the LED 174 ( Figure 5 ). In some embodiments, the light transmittance of the segment 930 can be different from the light transmittance of the second plurality of segments 914. For example, the light transmittance of the segment 930 can be greater than the light transmittance of the second plurality of segments 914. Thus, more light can pass through the segment 930 than through the second plurality of segments 914.

[0166] In some embodiments, the first plurality of segments 912 may be one or more apertures defined by the body 910 of the light blocker 900. Alternatively or additionally, the segment 930 may be an aperture defined by the body 910 of the light blocker 900.

[0167] It should be understood that the wall-mounted device of the present disclosure can be implemented in any suitable environment. For example, the wall-mounted device can be implemented in one or more rooms of a hotel. In this way, a guest can control one or more features of the room via the wall-mounted device. For example, a guest can control the operation of a television via one or more voice commands received at the wall-mounted device. As another example, a guest can control the operation of one or more lighting fixtures in the room.

[0168] Although the subject matter of the present invention has been described in detail with respect to specific example embodiments of the present invention, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such embodiments may be easily modified, variations of such embodiments may be made, and equivalents thereof may be obtained upon understanding the foregoing. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is by way of example and not by way of limitation, and the present disclosure does not exclude the inclusion of such modifications, variations, and / or additions to the subject matter of the present invention, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A power switch, comprising: a housing capable of being mounted on or at least partially within a surface, the housing having a front panel; a translucent interface element disposed on the front panel; a power interrupter operable to control power delivery to one or more powered loads based at least in part on user interaction with the interface element; a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to project visible light through the interface element; as well as One or more processors configured to obtaining data indicative of one or more contactless gestures, determining a control action based at least in part on the data indicative of the one or more contactless gestures, and One or more of the plurality of LEDs are illuminated to provide an indication associated with the control action. 2 . The power switch of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of LEDs are shielded by the interface element when the LEDs are turned off. 3 . The power switch of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of LEDs are disposed between the interface element and the housing. 4 . The power switch of claim 1 , wherein the interface element diffusely transmits light emitted from the plurality of LEDs to a front of the interface element.

5. The power switch of claim 1, wherein the interface element is formed of a plastic material configured to act as both a light pipe and a light diffuser for light emitted from the plurality of LEDs. The power switch of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged in a ring shape. 7 . The power switch of claim 1 , wherein the data indicative of one or more contactless gestures comprises data indicative of one or more hand postures.

8. The power switch according to claim 7, further comprising: Passive infrared sensors, and Wherein the data indicative of one or more hand gestures is obtained via the passive infrared sensor.

9. The power switch according to claim 1, further comprising: one or more microphones operable to obtain audio input, and One or more speakers configured to provide audio output.

10. A power switch, comprising: a housing capable of being mounted on or at least partially within a surface, the housing having a front panel; a translucent interface element disposed on the front panel; a power interrupter operable to control power delivery to one or more powered loads based at least in part on user interaction with the interface element; a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to project visible light through the interface element; one or more microphones operable to obtain audio input; as well as One or more processors configured to obtaining data indicative of the audio input via the one or more microphones, and One or more of the plurality of LEDs are illuminated to provide confirmation of detection of the audio input.

11. The power switch of claim 10, wherein the audio input comprises one or more voice commands.

12. The power switch of claim 10, wherein the plurality of LEDs are obscured by the interface element when the LEDs are turned off.

13. The power switch of claim 10, wherein the plurality of LEDs are disposed between the interface element and the housing.

14. The power switch of claim 10, wherein the interface element diffusely transmits light emitted from the plurality of LEDs to a front of the interface element.

15. The power switch of claim 10, wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged in a ring shape.

16. The power switch of claim 10, further comprising one or more speakers configured to provide an audio output.

17. A power switch, comprising: a housing capable of being mounted on or at least partially within a surface, the housing having a front panel; An interface element disposed on the front panel; a power interrupter operable to control power delivery to one or more powered loads based at least in part on user interaction with the interface element; a speaker disposed between the housing and the interface element, the speaker being configured to provide an audio output; as well as Wherein at least a portion of an edge surrounding the interface element defines a gap between the interface element and the housing, the gap being configured to allow audio output to emanate from the speaker and pass through the interface element.

18. The power switch of claim 17, wherein the speaker is disposed behind the interface element and in a recess defined in the housing.

19. The power switch according to claim 18, further comprising a microphone operable to obtain audio input, and A sound deflector is disposed between the speaker and the microphone.

20. The power switch of claim 18, wherein the interface element is configured to amplify audio output from the speaker.

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