Motion sensor module for controlling devices with centralized communication

Abstract

A motion sensor control system consisting of: a sensor module configured to receive an alternating current supply, wherein the sensor module is capable of converting the alternating current into an operating voltage for operating a motion detection sensor and a microcontroller; a motion detection sensor within the sensor module, configured to detect movements within a defined area and to generate a motion signal when a movement is detected; a microcontroller that is operationally coupled with the motion detection sensor and configured to process the motion signal and, in response to a detected movement, to transmit a control signal to a control module; a control module, comprising: a switching module configured to control an electrical load, wherein the switching module is capable of managing resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads; Communication ports to enable communication with a central system, allowing the reception of control signals and the transmission of status information; the control module is configured to switch the electrical load on or off based on the control signal from the sensor module.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a motion sensor module for controlling electrical devices via a central communication system. Background of the invention

[0002] As the need for energy-efficient solutions and the need for automation to control electrical appliances increases, so does the need for systems that can automatically control the operation of lights, fans, appliances, etc. Current systems typically use simple motion sensors or manual controls, which, while effective, limit functionality and flexibility. The goal of this invention is to address these disadvantages by combining motion detection with centralized communication and intelligent device control functionality.

[0003] Given the current basic need for automation and improved energy efficiency in homes and businesses, various types of control systems, especially automation systems, have been further developed for many household electrical appliances. Most of these solutions use sensors to detect movement or changes in the environment and then activate connected devices. Motion sensors, in particular, are a popular solution today for automating lights, fans, and other electrical devices. They help save energy and provide greater convenience for the user by detecting the presence and movement of people in a specific area and turning the lights on or off accordingly. Although various motion sensor-based solutions have entered the market in recent years, many of them have significant practical limitations that users face in real-world environments.

[0004] Traditionally, these types of motion sensor solutions are standalone units, usually specifically designed to control one type of device or application, or to perform a specific function. They typically rely on passive infrared (PIR) or ultrasonic sensors to detect motion, although PIR sensors are more widely used. PIR sensors detect infrared radiation emitted by people or animals, and once motion is detected, the sensor activates the connected device to turn it on or off. These simple and inexpensive sensors are often used for basic applications such as parking lots, basements, bathrooms, etc. However, PIR sensors have serious drawbacks that limit their usefulness in more complex or diverse environments. The limited sensitivity and range of PIR-based systems is one of their main drawbacks.Most PIR sensors can only be used to detect motion within a narrow field of view and cannot detect motion if the object / person they are intended to detect moves out of range. This can result in lights not turning on when needed or remaining on unnecessarily, wasting power.

[0005] Existing motion sensor solutions are limited in another important aspect: They do not allow for coordinated control of multiple devices or applications. Most systems control the state of devices based solely on motion detection but cannot operate as a module that controls multiple devices simultaneously with a central control system. Without a universal communication protocol, this means that each electronic device must have its own method of communication, and this is not limited to conventional commercial appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners. The motivation behind the development of these systems lies primarily in the area of ​​efficient building management, especially in larger configurations such as smart homes, where coordination between multiple devices is required.Furthermore, these isolation technologies offer users little freedom in controlling parameters that are important to the outcome, such as light intensity, time, or environment. This means that users often have to manually override settings to make changes, making the system overall less adaptable and more difficult to use.

[0006] In addition, current solutions often do not take into account changing environmental conditions, such as ambient brightness and variations in external factors. In locations where natural light plays a significant role in meeting lighting needs, lighting operation must be adjusted based on the availability of natural light. Conventional motion sensors cannot detect brightness and change their state accordingly. This can result in lights being turned on when natural light is sufficient, leading to unnecessary energy consumption. This is particularly problematic in outdoor applications where daytime and nighttime conditions differ greatly. Without the ability to adjust lighting to ambient conditions, energy can be wasted and operating costs can increase.

[0007] Most conventional motion sensor solutions also lack user configurability. In the most common scenarios, these systems rely on basic motion detection techniques that activate or deactivate devices based solely on whether or not motion is detected. This might work for simple use cases, but it is not effective for advanced use cases; for example, when the timing of motion detection and the device turning on or off is important. For example, a user might want to add a time delay to turn off a device when motion stops, or configure the system to respond to other contextual information (time of day, etc.).Custom settings for these requirements are generally not possible with conventional systems, which can leave users who desire more control over usage frustrated and inefficient. However, this typical specificity means that in the absence of more complex or changing environments, the benefits of motion sensor technology cannot be fully realized.

[0008] Furthermore, the convergence of motion sensor systems with other smart home or building automation technologies has been slow. Many of the solutions available today are standalone devices that cannot be integrated into the home automation system. The system already communicates with each other using an established communication protocol, and we need to make it smarter and more energy-efficient by introducing some sensors. This isn't possible under these conditions. This sensor we've developed can control such systems. This leads to users missing out on the broader benefits of home automation, including managing multiple devices from a single hub or combining motion sensors with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.One of the biggest drawbacks is the lack of interoperability between different systems as smart home technologies become increasingly popular. The possibility of better energy management is limited by the lack of integration with other systems that allow users to monitor and control devices remotely or in response to real-time data from other connected devices.

[0009] In addition to these technical deficiencies of current motion sensor systems, there are also limitations regarding the types of loads these systems can handle. Most conventional motion sensor systems are designed to control simple resistive loads such as light bulbs. However, in new buildings, the loads of many power supplies are often more complex and include reactive loads (inductance in motors of fans or air conditioning units such as A / C) or loads / circuits with inductive loads (e.g., power factor correction circuit design in most appliances). The majority of current systems cannot handle these types of loads safely and effectively. While solutions exist to control these types of loads, they are often complicated and expensive systems that may not be economical or useful for all users.A major limitation of all current motion sensor-based systems is their inability to handle a wide range of load types.

[0010] This highlights the limitations of the proximity motion sensor solution, which doesn't allow for centralized communication, control of multiple devices, and user configuration of automation parameters. Finally, it must be capable of generating a variety of load types and integrating with additional smart home devices to ensure smooth and productive user interaction. Technological advances that would allow systems to adjust lighting based on ambient light levels or enable finer timing and motion detection would significantly improve the energy efficiency and convenience of motion-activated automation.

[0011] Finally, despite their usefulness in simple applications, current motion sensor systems are limited by various constraints, such as range limitations, the inability to control multiple devices, poor environmental adaptability, and low configurability. However, this also involves many limitations that make them difficult to operate effectively in complex and dynamic environments. 04 must be equipped with centralized communication, advanced load control, and custom settings to address these issues. These systems are more flexible, energy-efficient, and convenient for users, facilitating the wider application of motion sensor-based automation in homes, workplaces, and industrial facilities. Summary of the invention

[0012] The motion sensor module consists of two parts: the sensor module and the control module. The sensor module detects motion and sends a control signal to the control module, which communicates with a central device control system. It supports resistive and inductive loads and can therefore be used with various loads. It ensures safe and easy operation of devices, as they cannot be controlled separately by the user via central communication.

[0013] The objective of the present invention is to design and develop a novel motion sensor module that enables automatic control of electrical devices using motion transmission and communication, with the incentive to centralize all these interactions. This system is designed to operate both resistive and inductive loads and provides efficient and safe performance for a wide range of electrical devices. With centralized control, the present invention is intended to replace the autonomous control of individual devices, thus controlling the entire electrical system in a unified and energy-saving manner.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to improve the use of motion sensor systems by enabling user-configurable parameter settings for functions such as light intensity and time according to the user's requirements or needs. This creates a system that can respond to changing ambient light levels and modify functions of devices that use natural light to reduce the need for lighting devices when the ambient light level allows. Furthermore, the time parameter can be used to specify how long a device should continue to operate after the last detected motion, contributing to additional energy savings by preventing devices from operating when not needed.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to provide such a motion sensor module that can automatically adjust the operating settings of devices to predetermined conditions such as ambient light intensity and time intervals, thus reducing power consumption. This locking system aims to minimize energy consumption, especially in spaces where the use and activation of lights and machines depend on the presence of people and environmental conditions (office buildings, residential buildings, and outdoor areas).

[0016] Furthermore, the invention aims to address existing limitations of motion sensors through a versatile and modular design capable of handling virtually any electrical load, linear and nonlinear discharge, etc. This performance allows a single system to handle various types of loads, making the invention more flexible and applicable to a wide variety of use cases, from residential buildings to office towers.

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to facilitate integration with other smart home or building automation systems. The invention also enables communication with central control systems through the use of the connectivity module, which enables integration with larger automation systems, allowing the control of multiple devices and appliances to be coordinated from a central hub. Integration, which is part of this greater convenience, leads to improved comfort in the operation of devices and individual energy consumption. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURE

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily understood when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout. Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of the motion sensor control system.

[0019] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the drawings are shown for convenience and may not necessarily be drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts illustrate the method by key steps to enhance understanding of aspects of the present disclosure. Furthermore, with respect to device construction, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawing may show only the specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of the present disclosure in order not to clutter the drawings with details that would be readily apparent to those skilled in the art who would benefit from the description herein. Detailed description of the invention

[0020] To facilitate an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and described in specific language. It is to be understood, however, that no limitation on the scope of the invention is intended thereby, since such changes and further modifications of the illustrated system and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.

[0021] It will be understood by one skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be limiting thereof.

[0022] References in this specification to "one aspect," "another aspect," or similar language mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, occurrences of the phrase "in one embodiment," "in another embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may or may not all refer to the same embodiment.

[0023] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] In Fig.1 shows a block diagram of a motion sensor control system. The system 100 includes: a sensor module 102 configured to receive an AC power supply for operating a motion detection sensor and a microcontroller; a motion detection sensor 104 within the sensor module configured to detect motion within a defined area and generate a motion signal upon motion detection; a microcontroller 106 operatively connected to the motion detection sensor and configured to process the motion signal and transmit a control signal to a control module in response to detected motion; a control module 108 including: a switching module configured to control an electrical load, wherein the switching module can manage resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads;Communication ports 110 for enabling bidirectional communication with a central system, allowing control signals to be received and status information to be transmitted; wherein the control module is configured to turn the electrical load on or off based on the control signal from the sensor module.

[0026] In one embodiment, the sensor module 102 further includes: user-configurable inputs for adjusting the light intensity and time parameters; the light intensity input allows the user to set a threshold for the ambient light conditions so that the sensor module activates lighting devices only when the ambient light falls below the set threshold; the time input allows the user to set a time threshold so that the connected device is automatically turned off if no motion is detected for the specified time.

[0027] In one embodiment, the switching module is capable of controlling high current electrical loads, including resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads, and is designed to safely disconnect the electrical load when no motion is detected.

[0028] In one embodiment, the system includes microcontroller-based control logic configured to interpret the motion signal from the motion detection sensor, process the light intensity and time parameters, and generate control commands to the switching module based on the detected motion and user-defined settings.

[0029] In one embodiment, the system is designed to enable communication between the sensor module 102 and the control module 108 via either wired or wireless communication protocols, thereby enabling flexible installation and operation in various environments.

[0030] In one embodiment, the system is integrated into a central control system and can control multiple devices simultaneously based on the coordinated control signals it receives from the central system.

[0031] In one embodiment, the control module 108 is connected to the electrical load via terminal blocks. These terminal blocks are designed to handle different load types, ensuring compatibility with resistive, inductive, and capacitive devices.

[0032] In one embodiment, the sensor module 102 is powered by a standard 230V AC power supply and consumes 0.1 watts of power for operation.

[0033] In one embodiment, the microcontroller 106 is configured to extend or reset the operating time for device operation based on continued motion detection, thus maintaining device activity until motion ceases for the user-defined time interval.

[0034] In one embodiment, the control module 108 is configured to automatically resume operation of the electrical load upon detection of motion, while ensuring that the load is turned off if no motion is detected after the user-defined time threshold is reached.

[0035] The sensor module is powered by a standard 230V AC power supply and consumes only 0.1 watts to operate. Upon receiving power, the sensor module converts the 230V AC input into the required operating voltage for the sensor and the microcontroller within the module. The sensor's main function is to detect movement within a defined area. When movement is detected, the sensor sends a command to the microcontroller, which processes the signal and triggers the control module to perform the required actions.

[0036] The motion signal is processed by the sensor module's microcontroller, and control communication with the control module is initiated. The microcontroller uses the received signal to send a command to the control module to turn the respective device on or off. The control module can interact with central systems to manage the status of connected loads. The motion detector device automatically turns off the device after a predetermined period of non-detection to save energy consumption and automate the devices.

[0037] This describes a control module for switching high-current loads (resistive, capacitive, inductive). This control module includes a switching module that shuts off the device's power when motion is no longer detected. This switching module can be used to control various types of devices with different power requirements in a controlled environment.

[0038] The control module is equipped with communication ports that enable communication with a central load management system.

[0039] The system's internal process includes two user-configurable inputs that define key parameters such as light intensity and time. The light intensity parameter controls the ambient light conditions. The sun is shining brightly, and the sensor detects natural light and controls the operation of the connected device. If the light intensity is below the threshold, the IoT device turns on the connected lighting device. Conversely, if the ambient light is above the threshold, the device remains off until motion is detected. This feature helps save energy because the lighting is only turned on when needed.

[0040] The second parameter, time, allows the user to select a period of inactivity before the system shuts down. For example, if the time is set to 10 seconds and no motion is detected after that, the connected device will automatically shut down. However, if motion is detected within that time, the timer resets, and the entire process repeats continuously until no motion is detected for a set period of time. This provides the convenience of not having to remember to turn off devices and also saves power if they would otherwise remain on.

[0041] The control module also features the necessary cabling and connectors for interfacing with various load types. It consists of both centralized units and units that can be connected to individual devices. Special connectors are used for resistive, capacitive, and inductive loads to ensure smooth operation and the central system can communicate with all loads. The connectors and cabling details are configured accordingly for the various load types, ensuring a suitable implementation of the control module.

[0042] In the present invention, the sensor module and the control module together form the motion sensor control system, which automatically controls electrical appliances based on motion detection while improving energy efficiency. The input to the sensor module is 230 V AC, which the sensor module converts into a suitable operating voltage to power the motion detection sensor and a microcontroller. The sensor module includes a motion detection sensor, typically a passive infrared (PIR) or ultrasonic sensor, that continuously monitors for movement within its specified detection zone. The sensor activates the microcontroller to process the event, and this microcontroller sends a corresponding control signal to the control module once motion is also detected. Such event-driven communication acts as a hotlink for controlling the devices in the system.

[0043] The signal detected by the motion sensor is processed by a microcontroller in the sensor module and determines whether the detected motion meets user-defined criteria, including user-defined light intensity and duration. The light intensity variable allows the sensor to check the ambient light level, usually using a light sensor, and determine whether the estimated light level is above or below a certain fixed value. The system promptly activates connected lighting devices when the measured ambient light falls below the specified threshold, indicating that there is insufficient natural light. Conversely, if the ambient light level is higher than the threshold, the system does not turn on the devices, thus preventing excessive energy consumption.In this way, this technology ensures that the lights only work when needed and depending on the amount of natural light detected under the conditions.

[0044] The time parameter gives the system an additional degree of freedom. This is the length of time the system must wait without detecting any motion before turning off the connected device. If motion is detected during this period, the timer is reset, leaving the device on for an additional period. This prevents devices from turning off while the user is still in the detection zone and keeps the devices running as long as activity is detected in the area. When the time has elapsed and no motion is detected, the system automatically turns off the device to save power and avoid waste. This approach enables real-time motion detection and the ability to dynamically change the operating time based on detected motion, significantly improving the energy efficiency of the overall system, as the results show.

[0045] The motion detection sensor can trigger the microcontroller to send a signal that the microcontroller understands and sends a control signal to the control module. The control module itself contains a switching module, which can contain specialized circuitry for driving various types of electrical loads, such as resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads. The PWM duty cycle of the DC motor, which drives the DC motor by controlling the DC motor's speed and direction, helps control the two connected devices using the circuitry that operates based on the magnets connected to the sensor module. In other words, when the sensor module detects motion and the ambient light is below the threshold, the microcontroller sends a signal to the switching module to turn on the lights.If no motion is detected after a user-specified time, the user sends a signal to the switch module to turn off the power to the load.

[0046] The control module also features one or more communication ports that enable communication with a central system, such as a smart home or building automation system. It is designed to receive control signals from the central system to manage the operation of multiple devices. The communication ports can be either wired or support wireless communication protocols for installation and system integration. The control module could also act as a gateway between the motion sensor system and the smarter building automation system, where the interaction of devices in the field (lights, fans, air conditioners, heaters, etc.) could be coordinated.

[0047] The interaction principle between the sensor module and the control module is based on the data received from both the motion detection sensor and the user mode parameters. The light intensity and time thresholds are then adjusted according to user requirements. The microcontroller effectively reads the motion sensor input, which helps control the device based on motion, ambient light level, and elapsed time. This method enables efficient device utilization, resulting in lower energy consumption and improved overall system performance. It also implements the logic required for scenarios where motion is always detected, allowing devices to remain powered on while activity is present and resetting the system or extending the operating time when new motion is detected.

[0048] In addition, the control module features a switching module that can switch high-current loads such as motors or capacitive and inductive load devices such as power factor correction circuits in appliances. The latter can degrade performance or potentially damage the switching module; however, it can safely handle the switching of these complex loads. A series of terminals for connecting the load allows the connection of any type of load—resistive, inductive, or capacitive loads connected in series. This ensures that these devices operate smoothly while consuming as little power as possible, and the electrical load is shut down when motion is no longer detected.

[0049] Communication between the sensor module and the control module is the most important part of the system's operation. When motion is detected, the sensor module sends a signal to the microcontroller, which analyzes the data and informs the control module with the most precise command. This communication system helps devices operate live when motion is detected. This is especially important as integrated products become increasingly integrated with other devices, allowing the control module to work with the other devices in a larger system. The system also monitors the status of the electrical devices and sends it to the central system for monitoring.

[0050] The drawings and the foregoing description provide examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be separated into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of the processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Furthermore, the actions of any flowchart need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all actions necessarily need to be performed. Also, those actions that are not dependent on other actions may be performed in parallel with the other actions. The scope of the embodiments is in no way limited by these specific examples.Numerous variations, whether explicitly stated in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimensions, and material use, are possible. The scope of the embodiments is at least as broad as indicated in the following claims.

[0051] Advantages, other benefits, and solutions to problems have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, benefits, solutions to problems, and any components that may cause an advantage or solution to occur or become more apparent are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all of the claims. REFERENCES 100 The system for controlling motion detectors is shown. 102 Sensor module 104 Motion detection sensor 106 microcontrollers 108 Control module 110 communication ports

Claims

[1] A motion sensor control system consisting of: a sensor module configured to receive an AC power supply, the sensor module capable of converting the AC power into an operating voltage for operating a motion detection sensor and a microcontroller; a motion detection sensor within the sensor module configured to detect movement within a defined area and generate a motion signal upon detection of movement; a microcontroller operatively coupled to the motion detection sensor and configured to process the motion signal and transmit a control signal to a control module in response to detected motion; a control module comprising: a switching module configured to control an electrical load, the switching module capable of managing resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads; Communication ports to enable communication with a central system to receive control signals and transmit status information; wherein the control module is configured to turn the electrical load on or off based on the control signal from the sensor module. [2] The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor module further comprises: User-configurable inputs for adjusting the light intensity and time parameters, where the light intensity input allows the user to set a threshold for the ambient light conditions so that the sensor module activates lighting devices only when the ambient light falls below the set threshold; where the time input allows the user to set a time threshold so that the connected device is automatically turned off if no motion is detected for the specified time. [3] The system of claim 1, wherein the switching module is capable of controlling high current electrical loads, including resistive, inductive and capacitive loads, and is configured to safely disconnect the electrical load when no motion is detected. [4] The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises microcontroller-based control logic configured to interpret the motion signal from the motion detection sensor, process the light intensity and time parameters, and generate control commands to the switching module based on the detected motion and user-defined settings. [5] The system of claim 1, wherein the system is configured to enable communication between the sensor module and the control module via either wired or wireless communication protocols, enabling flexible installation and operation in different environments. [6] The system of claim 1, wherein the system is integrated into a central control system and is capable of controlling multiple devices simultaneously based on the coordinated control signals received from the central system. [7] The system of claim 1, wherein the control module is connected to the electrical load via terminals suitable for handling different load types, thus ensuring compatibility with resistive, inductive and capacitive devices. [8] The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor module is powered by a standard 230V AC power supply and has a power consumption of 0.1W for operation. [9] The system of claim 1, wherein the microcontroller is configured to extend or reset the operating time for device operation based on the continued motion detection, thereby maintaining device activity until the motion ceases for the user-defined time interval. [10] The system of claim 1, wherein the control module is configured to automatically resume operation of the electrical load when motion is detected, while ensuring that the load is turned off if no motion is detected after the user-defined time threshold is reached.

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