Remote switch and method for communication with a remote switch

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a wireless switch. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for communicating with a wireless switch.

[0002] Wireless switches, after manual activation by a user and / or mechanical activation by technical equipment, send commands via radio over predetermined distances (typically less than 200 meters range in buildings and less than 20 km range outside of buildings) to one or more actuators, devices or systems.

[0003] Such radio switches include, in particular, radio switches and other remote controls that are triggered to transmit radio signals by manual operation. Such radio switches are shown, for example, in publication WO 2004 / 034560 A2. However, such radio switches also include radio switches that are triggered by mechanical changes in the state of other devices or systems, e.g., position switches, limit switches, switches with sensor functions for the position, weight, presence of objects, etc. Such radio switches are shown, for example, in publication DE 101 25 059.

[0004] US 2015 / 044966 A1 discloses a wireless switch with a first wireless interface and a second wireless interface, separate from the first wireless interface, which is configured for wirelessly transmitting information from an external device to the wireless switch and / or from the wireless switch to the external device. The second wireless interface is also configured for wirelessly transmitting power from the external device to the wireless switch during configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch by the external device. The power to operate a lighting control system is supplied by a generator, which charges an energy storage device, after a switch is activated.

[0005] Standard wireless switches, when placed on the market, have a fixed set of functions that cannot be changed without significant effort and specialized technology (e.g., wired reprogramming or hardware modification). A dealer, installer, or end user is typically unable to do so.

[0006] One problem with such wireless switches is that their functionality and various operating parameters are currently fixed or can only be changed to a very limited extent, for example, through coding devices on the wireless switches themselves, or via complex processes. Maintenance of such wireless switches is also currently very limited, if not impossible.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a radio switch and a method that enable a simpler and more flexible configuration or maintenance of a radio switch.

[0008] According to one aspect, this task is solved by a wireless switch, which will be explained below.

[0009] Such a wireless switch has a first wireless interface for sending switching commands. Furthermore, the wireless switch has a second wireless interface, separate from the first. The second wireless interface is configured for wirelessly transmitting information from an external device to the wireless switch and / or from the wireless switch to the external device.

[0010] Such a wireless switch enables easy configuration, maintenance, or diagnostics of the functionality of the wireless switch or a system with such a wireless switch and the actuators, devices, or subsystems controlled by it, using an external device that can be paired with the wireless switch's second wireless interface. Information or data can be easily transferred from the external device to the wireless switch and / or from the wireless switch to the external device via the wireless switch's second wireless interface.

[0011] In this way, the functionality and operating parameters of the wireless switch can be defined during installation or easily and comprehensively modified later. Software updates and activations can also be performed wirelessly, easily, and cost-effectively via the second wireless interface. This second wireless interface allows for simple and flexible configuration and maintenance. The wireless switch can thus be flexibly adapted to various (potentially changing) operating situations or scenarios.

[0012] In various embodiments, the wireless switch, specifically its second wireless interface, is implemented to receive encrypted information or data from and / or transmit it to the external device. This increases the security of communication between the wireless switch and the external device via the second wireless interface.

[0013] The wireless switch is designed to control one or more actuators. Such actuators can be, for example, devices and components of an automated building or home technology system, such as lamps, lights, displays, blinds, shutters, window actuators, electronic access or locking systems, air conditioning systems (especially heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, HVAC systems), etc. In various configurations, the wireless switch is designed to be mobile and flexibly positioned.

[0014] The second wireless interface of the wireless switch is configured for wirelessly transmitting power from the external device to the wireless switch. This has the advantage that the wireless switch can be supplied with power via this second wireless interface, which is used to operate the switch. This is very helpful, for example, during configuration or maintenance by the external device using the second wireless interface. The wireless switch itself does not need to supply or expend any power for this purpose. This is particularly advantageous for so-called energy-autonomous wireless switches with very limited power reserves. Configuration or maintenance of such wireless switches is easily feasible despite their limited power reserves because the necessary power is supplied via the second wireless interface.

[0015] In various embodiments of the radio switch, operating the radio switch means, for example, that the radio switch is set up to be powered in an active operating state by energy transferred from the external device to the radio switch.

[0016] In various versions of the wireless switch, the second wireless interface is configured as a bidirectional data interface for the wireless exchange of information between the wireless switch and the external device. For example, the wireless switch is configured via this bidirectional data interface to transmit a response to a request sent to it from an external device. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless switch can be configured via this bidirectional data interface to transmit a request to the external device and subsequently receive a response from the external device. This has the advantage that not only can information / data be transmitted from the external device to the wireless switch, but information / data can also be read from the wireless switch by the external device. In this way, for example,Maintenance data or a history of the reliability of the wireless switch can be collected. The bidirectional interface enables such data to be read. Furthermore, the reliability or quality of the wireless switch during operation (according to the invention, the link quality of a radio connection between the wireless switch and one or more actuators) can be exchanged and queried bidirectionally in this way.

[0017] In various versions of the wireless switch, the second wireless interface is configured as follows: as an inductive interface, especially for near-field communication (range typically a few centimeters to a few meters) and / or as a radio interface and / or as an optical interface and / or as a capacitive interface and / or as an acoustic interface.

[0018] For example, the second wireless interface is configured as an inductive interface according to the so-called "Near Field Communication" or "NFC" standard. This enables good and reliable compatibility with external devices that also have a corresponding NFC interface. Alternatively or additionally, the second wireless interface is configured as a radio interface for the wireless exchange of information and / or power via radio signals (Radio Frequency, RF). This enables communication even over longer distances. This is advantageous for very exposed locations and / or in industrial environments. Furthermore, as an alternative or additionally, the second wireless interface is configured as an optical interface for the wireless exchange of information and / or power via light. This is advantageous, for example, when interference or disruption of radio signals must be avoided, e.g.,in a laboratory environment or an operating environment with strictly regulated electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements. Alternatively or additionally, the second wireless interface is configured as an acoustic interface for the wireless exchange of information and / or energy via acoustic signals, e.g., ultrasound.

[0019] In various embodiments of the wireless switch, the switch incorporates an energy converter for converting ambient energy, particularly mechanical, light, or thermal energy, into electrical energy to power the switch. The wireless switch is thus designed as an energy-autonomous device. For example, the energy converter may be configured to convert a mechanical actuation force into electrical energy to operate the wireless switch. Alternatively or additionally, the energy converter may be configured, for example, as a solar cell or Peltier element to convert light or thermal energy into electrical energy. In various embodiments, the wireless switch also includes an energy storage device to store the electrical energy provided by the energy converter.

[0020] In this way, the wireless switch can be installed in locations without direct access to wired infrastructure and advantageously draws the energy required for operation from its immediate surroundings. This has the advantage of (from an energy supply perspective) maintenance-free operation without battery changes or charging.

[0021] As an alternative or supplement to versions of the radio switch with an energy converter, battery operation via one or more batteries is also possible.

[0022] In various versions of the wireless switch, the switch can be configured and maintained via the second wireless interface in such a way that the functionality and / or operating parameters of the wireless switch can be influenced by one or more of the following measures: activation, deactivation, reading, and modification. Some or all functions and / or operating parameters of the wireless switch are implemented / stored within the wireless switch itself. These can be selected and / or activated via an external device through communication via the second wireless interface. Alternatively, new functions and / or operating parameters not yet stored in the wireless switch can also be loaded / programmed via an external device through communication via the second wireless interface.For this purpose, the radio switch is equipped, for example, with devices or controls for enabling or limiting or defining a specific range of functions or specific working or operating parameters.

[0023] For example, one or a combination of the following options can be set or provided: Predefined operating parameters such as radio frequencies, operating modes, communication standards, etc., predefined security levels, enabling one, several or all predefined functions, enabling one, several or all functions only conditionally or temporarily or permanently, programming new functions not previously stored in the radio switch, operating or working parameters.

[0024] The above task is solved according to a second aspect by a procedure explained below.

[0025] Such a procedure is set up for communication between a wireless switch and an external device and includes the following steps: Establishing or setting up a communication link between a wireless interface of the radio switch and a wireless interface of the external device, wherein the wireless interface of the radio switch is set up separately from another wireless interface of the radio switch for sending switching commands, transmitting information from the external device to the radio switch and / or from the radio switch to the external device by means of the established communication link.

[0026] Such a method achieves the same effects and advantages as those explained above in connection with the radio switch according to the first aspect.

[0027] In various implementations of the method, information or data is transmitted in encrypted form from the wireless switch to the external device or vice versa. This increases the security of communication between the wireless switch and the external device via the dedicated wireless interface. Otherwise, the same effects and advantages are achieved as described above in connection with the wireless switch, as outlined in the first section.

[0028] According to the invention, the method comprises the following step: Transfer of energy from the external device to the wireless switch via the wireless interface of the wireless switch.

[0029] This measure achieves the same effects and advantages as those explained above in connection with the wireless switch, as described in the first aspect. This step can also be performed initially, before or in parallel with the other steps described above.

[0030] In various implementations, the energy transferred from the external device to the wireless switch is advantageously used to operate the wireless switch. This energy transfer is particularly beneficial during configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch.

[0031] In various implementations, the process includes the following step: Configuring or maintaining the wireless switch using the external device depending on the transmitted information, whereby the functionality of the wireless switch and / or operating parameters of the wireless switch are influenced by one or more of the following measures: activation, deactivation, reading, changing.

[0032] The desired configuration of the wireless switch is advantageously stored in the external device. By establishing a communication link and exchanging information between the wireless switch and the external device via this link, the desired configuration can be set in the wireless switch.

[0033] In various implementations of the procedure, a query / exchange between the external device and an online service (server) is provided. This includes, for example, authentication of the external device with the online service to verify the appropriate rights of the external device to perform the configuration described above and / or to retrieve, specify, or authorize a desired configuration of the wireless switch. For security reasons, the connection between the external device and the online service is preferably encrypted.

[0034] In various implementations of the procedure, the external device is connected to the online service and obtains authorization from the online service to configure or maintain the wireless switch. Configuring or maintaining the wireless switch via the external device is only possible if this authorization has been granted by the online service. Therefore, configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch via the external device can only be performed if the configuration or maintenance, or its scope, has been authorized by the online service.

[0035] In various implementations of the process, the online service defines a specific scope for configuring or maintaining the wireless switch, with the scope of configuration or maintenance on the external device being authorized via the granted permissions. For example, the external device first sends a request to the online service for configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch. The online service then checks the request, the associated scope of configuration or maintenance, and whether the external device has the necessary permissions. For instance, the online service checks a user account to see if certain configurations or settings of the wireless switch have been previously enabled or acquired by a user of the external device. If so, the online service authorizes the request, the associated scope of configuration or maintenance, which can then be performed on the wireless switch via the external device.If these mechanisms fail, configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch via the external device through the online service will fail.

[0036] In various implementations, the process includes the following step: Reading identification information from the wireless switch by the external device, The configuration and maintenance of the wireless switch are carried out based on the retrieved identification information. This has the advantage that the wireless switch is identified for the aforementioned actions, and these actions are then performed based on this identification. This ensures secure and error-free configuration and maintenance of the wireless switch.

[0037] In various implementations of the method, the identification information of the wireless switch is read via the communication link between the wireless interfaces of the wireless switch and the external device. Alternatively, the identification information is read via a separate method, e.g., by reading a QR code on the wireless switch using a sensor (such as a camera) on the external device.

[0038] In various implementations of the procedure, the identification information of the wireless switch is forwarded or verified by the external device to an online service (server). This online service can be the aforementioned online service or another online service. For security reasons, the connection between the external device and the online service for this purpose is preferably encrypted.

[0039] In various implementations, the process includes the following steps: Sending a radio signal by the radio switch to one or more actuators initiated by the external device via the communication link, receiving one or more return signals from the one or more actuators by the radio switch, storing a pairing of the radio switch with the one or more actuators.

[0040] These measures allow for very simple pairing of the wireless switch with one or more actuators, controlled or triggered by the external device, which communicates with the wireless switch via the communication link and the dedicated wireless interface. The transmission of the radio signal occurs, for example, via the wireless switch's separate interface. The pairing is stored, for example, in the wireless switch or the actuator, and optionally also in the external device.

[0041] In various implementations of the method, information is exchanged bidirectionally between the wireless switch and the external device via the communication link. This achieves the same effects and advantages as those explained above in connection with the wireless switch according to the first aspect.

[0042] According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps: The radio switch transmits a radio signal to one or more actuators, the radio switch receives one or more return signals from the one or more actuators, transmits status information from the radio switch to the external device via the communication link depending on the received return signal(s), and the external device evaluates the transmitted status information.

[0043] These measures allow for the testing, configuration, maintenance, or modification of an entire system, comprising the wireless switch and one or more actuators controlled by the wireless switch. The established communication link between the external device and the wireless switch allows for the monitoring and / or manipulation of the transmission path between the wireless switch and one or more actuators. Thus, not only information / data concerning the wireless switch itself, but also information / data concerning the one or more actuators are generated and transmitted back to the wireless switch (triggered by the radio signal sent by the wireless switch). This transmitted information / data is then transferred to the external device via the wireless switch's dedicated wireless interface, where it can be evaluated and analyzed.In these implementations, the transmission of radio signals from the radio switch to one or more actuators also takes place via the radio switch's separate interface.

[0044] The above measures also have the advantage that the transmission path between the wireless switch and the one or more actuators can be checked without the external device needing to be connected to a wireless network (e.g., Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN, or Wi-Fi) within which the wireless switch communicates with the one or more actuators. Instead, the wireless switch acts as an intermediary between the transmission path of the one or more actuators and the external device, transmitting data about the one or more actuators to the external device via the wireless switch and its established wireless interface. In this way, checking the transmission path between the wireless switch and the one or more actuators using the external device is very easy, without having to grant an unknown external device access to a private wireless network.

[0045] When applying the measures provided for in these implementations, the following further steps will be carried out in more extensive implementations: Specifying a defined range of functions and / or defined operating parameters using the external device, which includes defined control of one or more actuators by the radio switch, setting up the defined range of functions and / or the defined operating parameters in the radio switch, transmitting the radio signal by the radio switch to the one or more actuators depending on the defined range of functions and / or the defined operating parameters, saving a pairing of the radio switch with the one or more actuators if the evaluated status information meets predetermined criteria.

[0046] These additional measures, as an alternative or supplement to the measures mentioned above, enable a particularly easy and advantageous pairing of components and functions between multiple devices within the system, including the wireless switch and one or more actuators. This is controlled by the external device via the communication link established with the wireless switch. This is especially useful during the installation of the wireless switch, but also during maintenance and troubleshooting within the system.

[0047] The above problem is solved according to a third aspect by an arrangement comprising a radio switch and an external device according to claim 15. The arrangement is particularly configured to carry out a method according to the second aspect. In various embodiments of the arrangement, the radio switch is advantageously configured as the radio switch according to the first aspect. The external device is configured to communicate with the radio switch.

[0048] The external device described herein is, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.

[0049] All structural features, aspects, advantages, and effects of the radio switch according to the first aspect are reflected in procedural features, aspects, advantages, and effects of the method according to the second aspect, and vice versa. The same applies between the arrangement according to the third aspect and the method according to the second aspect.

[0050] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to embodiments and several drawings.

[0051] They show: Figure 1 a schematic representation of an embodiment of a radio switch and an external device, Figure 2 a schematic representation of an embodiment of a system with a radio switch, an external device with online connection and several actuators, Figure 3 a perspective view of another embodiment of the radio switch, Figure 4 an exploded view of the embodiment of the radio switch according to Figure 3 , as well as Figure 5 A schematic representation of an implementation of a procedure for configuring a wireless switch.

[0052] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a radio switch 1 and an external device 12.

[0053] In this embodiment, the radio switch 1 is designed as an energy-autonomous radio switch 1. The radio switch 1 has an actuating element 6 for actuating the radio switch 1. The actuating element 6 is, for example, a rocker switch. Furthermore, the radio switch 1 has an energy converter 7, which is configured to convert the mechanical actuating energy of the actuating element 6 into electrical energy. The energy converter 7 is, for example, designed as a piezoelectric or electromagnetic converter. The electrical energy converted by the energy converter 7 is temporarily stored by means of an energy storage device 8, and the radio switch 1 also has a voltage converter 9 for converting the electrical energy stored in the energy storage device 8 into a defined operating voltage of the radio switch 1.

[0054] In this way, the wireless switch 1 is energy self-sufficient, with the electrical energy required for operation being supplied by the mechanical actuation energy of the actuator 6. The wireless switch 1 is therefore flexible and mobile, suitable for use in various locations and scenarios.

[0055] Furthermore, the radio switch 1 in the embodiment according to Figure 1 The microcontroller 11 comprises a microcontroller or central processing unit and a non-volatile memory 10. The non-volatile memory 10 stores data, particularly program data or software. This information is processed by the microcontroller 11. In general, the microcontroller 11 is configured to control the radio switch 1 for its intended use.

[0056] The radio switch 1, in the embodiment according to Figure 1Two separate wireless interfaces, 2 and 3, are available. The first wireless interface, 2, is a radio interface, whereby radio signals can be transmitted from the radio switch 1 via an antenna. Such radio signals are used, for example, to control one or more actuators that communicate with the radio switch 1 via a radio connection. Such communication takes place, for example, within a WLAN network.

[0057] The second wireless interface 3 is, for example, an NFC interface, whereby a wireless communication connection can be established between the radio switch 1 and the external device 12 via the antenna 5, allowing information or data 19 and / or energy 20 to be exchanged between the radio switch 1 and the external device 12.

[0058] The external device 12 has a corresponding wireless interface 14 with an antenna 16 for wireless communication with the radio switch 1, via which a corresponding wireless communication connection can be established with the interface 3 (antenna 5) of the radio switch 1.

[0059] In the constellation according to Figure 1For example, a bidirectional exchange of information / data 19 takes place between the wireless switch 1 and the external device 12 via the respective wireless interface 3 on the wireless switch 1 and the wireless interface 14 on the external device 12. Furthermore, the external device 12 provides power 20 to the wireless switch 1 via this wireless connection. This power supply is advantageous in order to operate the wireless switch 1 independently of its own power supply, as explained above, at least for configuration purposes. The power 20 is transmitted from the external device 12 to the wireless switch 1 via the corresponding wireless interfaces 3 and 14.

[0060] Furthermore, the external device 12 includes a user interface 13, for example a touch-sensitive display, a battery 18 for powering the external device 12, a microcontroller or central processing unit 28 for controlling the external device 12, and another wireless interface 15 with an antenna 17, which is configured, for example, as a radio interface. In this way, the external device 12 can also be used portably and integrated into any wireless network, for example a WLAN. The external device 12 is, for example, a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.

[0061] Figure 2Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a system comprising a wireless switch 1, an external device 12 with online connection to an online service 21, and several actuators 22, 23, and 24 that can be controlled via the wireless switch 1. The wireless switch 1 and the external device 12 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 1 are... Figure 2 are, for example, according to the configuration of the embodiment made of Figure 1 furnished.

[0062] Actuators 22 and 23 are implemented according to Figure 2 For example, lights, while actuator 24 is, for example, a blind. All actuators 23, 23 and 24 each have a corresponding transmitter / receiver 22a, 23a and 24a as well as corresponding antennas 22b, 23b and 24b. The radio switch 1 can be controlled via its radio interface 2 and antenna 4 (see figure). Figure 1) communicate bidirectionally with the actuators 22, 23 and 24, in particular sending control signals to the actuators 22, 23 and 24 or receiving corresponding feedback signals (for example status signals) from the actuators 22, 23 and 24.

[0063] The external device 12 communicates with the radio switch 1, as described in connection with Figure 1 has been explained, i.e., in particular via a wireless interface within the radio switch 1 (e.g., interface 3 according to Figure 1 ) and via a corresponding wireless interface in the external device 12 (e.g., the interface 14 according to Figure 1 ). In the implementation in Figure 2The wireless switch 1 and the external device 12 are configured to exchange information and data 19 bidirectionally via the corresponding wireless interfaces 3 and 14. Furthermore, the external device 12 is configured to supply electrical power 20 to the wireless switch 1 via the corresponding wireless interfaces 3 and 14.

[0064] The external device 12 is connected via a separate wireless radio interface (e.g., interface 15 according to Figure 1) is connected to the online service 21. The online service 21 is, for example, a service provided via a server for authenticating the external device 12 or the wireless switch 1. Alternatively or additionally, the online service 21 specifies a range of functions, operating parameters, or working parameters of the wireless switch 1, or a permitted scope of configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch 1, depending on which the wireless switch 1 can be configured. The online service 21 is, for example, configured to authorize or release the permitted scope of configuration or maintenance of the wireless switch 1 in the external device 12. A corresponding functionality or procedure for configuring the wireless switch 1 using the external device 12 from the system, as described in Figure 2 presented, is in connection with a procedure according to Figure 5 Explained in more detail below.

[0065] In the system according to Figure 2The external device 12 is optionally equipped with sensors to capture additional information about the wireless switch 1. Such additional information includes, for example, identification information for the wireless switch 1. The sensors on the external device 12 are, for example, a camera. The camera of the external device 12 optically detects a marker on the wireless switch 1, such as a QR code. This marker contains, for example, identification information for the wireless switch 1, which can be processed accordingly after the external device 12 scans the marker. Optionally, the captured identification information for the wireless switch 1 can be sent via the external device 12 to the online service 21 for review and verification.

[0066] Preferably, the implementation will be carried out according to Figure 2one or more communication links between the radio switch 1 and the actuators 22, 23 and 24, between the radio switch 1 and the external device 12 or between the external device 12 and the online service 21 in encrypted form.

[0067] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a radio switch 1, as used, for example, in the Figure 1 and 2 can be used. The form factor of the radio switch 1 according to Figure 3 is chosen in such a way that the wireless switch 1, for example, can be installed as a surface-mounted switch.

[0068] Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the embodiment of the radio switch 1 according to Figure 3 , whereby individual components of the radio switch 1 are illustrated. In particular, the radio switch 1 exhibits according to Figure 4an upper housing part 26 and a lower housing part 27. The upper housing part 26 includes, in particular, four spring elements for actuating / triggering corresponding switching functions of the radio switch 1. For the sake of simplicity, one or more rocker switches for actuating the radio switch 1 are arranged in Figure 4 not shown, but are mounted on the top of the upper housing part 26 when the radio switch 1 is installed, in order to actuate the corresponding spring elements.

[0069] The lower housing part 27 serves to accommodate two actuating elements 6 and an energy converter 7 for converting mechanical energy from the actuating elements 6 into electrical energy, as described in connection with Figure 1as explained above. Furthermore, a circuit board 25 is mounted between the upper housing part 26 and the lower housing part 27, which comprises all electrical and electronic components of the switch 1 (except for the energy converter 7). In particular, according to Figure 4 The first wireless interface 2 is set up on board 25, which is analogous to the implementation in Figure 1 a radio interface. Furthermore, the second wireless interface 3 is set up on board 25, which, for example, is analogous to the implementation according to Figure 1 It is an NFC interface.

[0070] Figure 5 Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of an implementation of a procedure for configuring a wireless switch with several procedure steps S1 to S9. The following describes such a procedure for configuring wireless switch 1 in a system according to the exemplary implementation from Figure 2. Figure 2explained in more detail. All subsequent explanations refer structurally to the exemplary implementation in Figure 2 , where various process steps of a procedure are implemented in different examples according to Figure 5 will be explained.

[0071] As explained above, the external device 12 is battery-operated (battery 18) with a user interface 13 and enables bidirectional communication 19 with the wireless switch 1 and power transfer 20 to the wireless switch 1. The communication link between the external device 12 and the wireless switch 1 is established via the wireless interfaces 3 and 14 (see Figure 1) with a short range, typically a few meters. The external device 12 has access to the online service 21 in order to exchange data and / or permissions / authorizations for performing actions related to the configuration of the wireless switch 1 with the online service 21, either during use or at a time later. A communication link between the wireless switch 1 and the external device 12, or between the external device 12 and the online service 21, is preferably established via secure (encrypted) communication. 1) Implementation example of a procedure according to Figure 5 for the process of configuring the functions of the radio switch 1 according to Figure 2 .

[0072] In step S1, a set of predefined functions of the wireless switch 1 is selected on the external device 12. In an optional step S2, permission (rights to make this change) is obtained via the connection to the online service 21. This is done either by obtaining permission for the individual wireless switch 1 (e.g., via identification information of the wireless switch 1 captured by the device 12) or by obtaining a limited-use permission for all wireless switches of a certain type, e.g., "wireless switch with properties xyz". For example, the online service 21 checks an account linked to the external device 12 to see if the corresponding rights have been activated or acquired, e.g., whether a specific set of functions or certain configurations of the wireless switch 1 have been unlocked, e.g., through purchase.

[0073] In a further step S3, device 12 is brought close to the radio switch 1. In a further step S4, the wireless interface (interface 14 according to Figure 1 ) of device 12 supplies electrical energy to the radio switch 1. In step S5, a communication link is established between the wireless interface of device 12 and the wireless interface (interface 3 according to Figure 1 ) of radio switch 1 initiated.

[0074] In step S6, the transfer of the set of predefined functions to radio switch 1 is started manually or automatically. Once the set of predefined functions has been transferred to radio switch 1, the functions of radio switch 1 are configured in step S7 based on this set of predefined functions. In an optional step S8, after the configuration of radio switch 1 is complete, which is communicated to device 12, for example, via a corresponding feedback signal from radio switch 1, the configured settings of radio switch 1 are checked by device 12. This is done, for example, by sending test data from device 12 to radio switch 1.

[0075] In an optional final step S9, after the configuration of the radio switch 1 is completed, this configuration is stored in the device 12 and / or in the online service 21 in a way that can be uniquely assigned (e.g. via an identification number of the radio switch 1).

[0076] 2) Implementation example of a procedure according to Figure 5 for the process of assigning the radio switch 1 to one or more actuators 22, 23 or 24 in the system according to Figure 2 .

[0077] In step S1, device 12 is brought close to the radio switch 1. In step S2, the wireless interface (interface 14 according to Figure 1 ) of device 12 supplies electrical energy to the radio switch 1. In step S3, a communication link is established between the wireless interface of device 12 and the wireless interface (interface 3 according to Figure 1 ) of radio switch 1 initiated.

[0078] In step S4, identification information for the radio switch 1 is transmitted via its wireless interface (see interface 3 from Figure 1 ) is queried. Alternatively or additionally, a QR code of the radio switch 1 is read, which is queried with a camera of the device 12.

[0079] Preferably, the device 12 contains information about which of the actuators 22, 23, or 24 the radio switch 1 is to be assigned to (one or more actuators). In step S5, a defined range of functions and / or defined operating parameters are optionally specified by means of the external device 12, which include defined control of one or more of the actuators 22, 23, or 24 by the radio switch 1. Optionally, the defined range of functions and / or the defined operating parameters are configured in the radio switch 1. The defined range of functions and / or the defined operating parameters are specified, for example, by the online service 21, analogous to the implementation example in 1).

[0080] In a further step S6, the radio switch 1 is optionally caused to send a radio signal to the actuator(s) 22, 23, and / or 24, using the energy 20 supplied via the interface.

[0081] In a further step S7, the radio switch 1 is optionally switched to a receive mode to receive confirmation (acknowledgment signal) of the receipt of its radio signal transmitted in step S6 by the actuator(s) 22, 23 and / or 24. This confirmation is evaluated qualitatively according to signal strength and correctness, e.g., using identifiers (identification information) of the actuator(s) 22, 23 and / or 24. This determines whether the correct actuator(s) 22, 23, or 24 are being controlled with the desired functionality.

[0082] Steps S6 and S7 can also be performed iteratively for several of the actuators 22, 23 or 24.

[0083] In step S8, status information is transmitted to the external device 12 via the communication link, depending on the received confirmation(s) from the radio switch 1, and the transmitted status information is evaluated by the external device 12.

[0084] In a final step S9, after successful communication between the radio switch 1 and an associated actuator 22, 23 or 24, this pairing is permanently stored, preferably in the respective actuators 22, 23 or 24, optionally also in the radio switch 1 and / or in the external device 12 and / or in the online service 21. This establishes an assignment and optionally also verifies the quality of the radio connection.

[0085] The advantage of these measures is that assigning and verifying a pairing between wireless switch 1 and one or more of the actuators 22, 23, or 24 does not require device 12 to access a wireless network or establish a wireless connection between wireless switch 1 and the actuators 22, 23, or 24. Instead, this information is exchanged between wireless switch 1 and device 12 via the wireless communication link between these system components. This allows the system to be configured or maintained without granting a user of device 12 access to the wireless network or a wireless connection between wireless switch 1 and the actuators 22, 23, or 24. This increases security.

[0086] 3) Implementation example of a procedure according to Figure 5 for troubleshooting, maintenance or quality assurance in the system with the radio switch 1 and the actuators 22, 23, 24 according to Figure 2 .

[0087] In the event of malfunctions of the radio switch 1 or one or more of the actuators 22, 23, 24, a comprehensive diagnosis can be easily carried out using the mobile device 12.

[0088] In step S1, device 12 is brought close to the radio switch 1. In step S2, the wireless interface (interface 14 according to Figure 1 ) of device 12 supplies electrical energy to the radio switch 1. In step S3, a communication link is established between the wireless interface of device 12 and the wireless interface (interface 3 according to Figure 1 ) of radio switch 1 initiated.

[0089] In step S4, a radio telegram is transmitted from the radio switch 1 to one or more of the actuators 22, 23, 24, initialized by the device 12. In step S5, a response from one or more actuators 22, 23, 24 is checked. In step S6, the radio switch 1 switches to receive mode and evaluates acknowledge signals from one or more actuators 22, 23, 24. In step S7, the device 12 reads a history of the radio communication between the radio switch 1 and one or more actuators 22, 23, 24 via the wireless communication link and optionally evaluates the read information. Optionally, the device 12 also reads an error memory of the radio switch 1 and optionally evaluates this read information. In an optional further step S8, corrective measures are initiated and carried out, e.g.through a software update or reconfiguration of the wireless switch 1 by the device 12 according to the measures described above. In a final optional step S9, the device 12 recommends other repair measures, e.g., a hardware replacement of the wireless switch 1. All described embodiments and / or implementations are merely examples. Reference symbol list

[0090] 1 Radio switch 2 First wireless interface 3 Second wireless interface 4 Antenna 5 Antenna 6 Actuator 7 Energy converter 8 Energy storage 9 Voltage converter 10 Non-volatile memory 11 Microcontroller, central processing unit 12 External device 13 User interface 14 First wireless interface 15 Second wireless interface 16 Antenna 17 Antenna 18 Battery 19 Information, data 20 Energy 21 Online service 22 Actuator 23 Actuator 24 Actuator 22a Transceiver 23a Transceiver 24a Transceiver 22b Antenna 23b Antenna 24b Antenna 25 Circuit board 26 Upper housing part 27 Lower housing part 28 Microcontroller, central processing unit S1 to S9 Procedure steps

Claims

1. Radio switch (1) with a first wireless interface (2) for transmitting switching commands to one or more actuators (22, 23, 24) and with a second wireless interface (3) that is provided separately from the first wireless interface (2) and that is configured to wirelessly transmit information (19) - from an external device (12) to the radio switch (1) and / or - from the radio switch (1) to the external device (12), wherein the second wireless interface (3) is additionally configured to wirelessly transmit energy (20) from the external device (12) to the radio switch (1) during a configuration or maintenance of the radio switch (1) by the external device (12), characterized in that the energy is used to operate the radio switch (1) and to transmit a radio signal to the actuators (22, 23, 24) via the first wireless interface (2), and wherein the radio switch (1) is configured to receive one or more return signals from the actuators and to transmit status information to the external device (12) by means of the second wireless interface (3) depending on the received return signal or signals, wherein the status information comprises a link quality of a radio connection between the radio switch and the actuators.

2. Radio switch (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the second wireless interface (3) is in the form of a bidirectional data interface for wirelessly exchanging information (19) between the radio switch (1) and the external device (12).

3. Radio switch (1) according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the second wireless interface (3) is in the form of the following: - an inductive interface, in particular for near-field communication and / or - a radio interface and / or - an optical interface and / or - a capacitive interface.

4. Radio switch (1) according to any of Claims 1 to 3, wherein the radio switch (1) comprises an energy converter (7) for converting ambient energy, in particular mechanical energy or light energy or thermal energy, into electrical energy for operating the radio switch (1).

5. Radio switch (1) according to any of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the radio switch (1) is configurable or maintainable via the second wireless interface (3) in such a way that an extent of functions of the radio switch (1) and / or operating parameters of the radio switch (1) are influenced by means of one or more of the following measures: - activation, - deactivation, - reading, - modification.

6. Method for communication between the radio switch (1) according to any of the preceding claims and an external device (12), comprising the following steps: - transmitting energy (20) from the external device (12) to the radio switch (1) during a configuration or maintenance of the radio switch (1) by the external device (12) by means of the second wireless interface (3) of the radio switch (1), wherein the energy is used to operate the radio switch (1), establishing a communication connection between the second wireless interface (3) of the radio switch (1) and the first wireless interface (14) of the external device (12), - transmitting a radio signal to the one or more actuators (22, 23, 24) via the first wireless interface (2), caused by the external device (12) by means of the communication connection, - receiving one or more return signals from the one or more actuators (22, 23, 24) by the radio switch (1), - transmitting status information to the external device (12) by means of the communication connection depending on the return signal or signals received by the radio switch (1), wherein the status information comprises a link quality of a radio connection between the radio switch and the one or more actuators, evaluating the transmitted status information by the external device (12).

7. Method according to Claim 6, comprising the step of: - configuring or maintaining the radio switch (1) by means of the external device (12) depending on the transmitted information (19), wherein an extent of functions of the radio switch (1) and / or operating parameters of the radio switch (1) are influenced by means of one or more of the following measures: - activation, - deactivation, - reading, - modification.

8. Method according to Claim 7, wherein the external device (12) is connected to an online service (21) and obtains approval to configure or maintain the radio switch (1) at the online service (21), wherein the configuration or maintenance of the radio switch (1) is able to be carried out by the external device (12) only if the approval has been obtained at the online service (21).

9. Method according to Claim 8, wherein the online service (21) specifies a particular extent for configuring or maintaining the radio switch (1) and the extent for configuring or maintaining the radio switch (1) in the external device (12) is authorized by way of the obtained approval.

10. Method according to any of Claims 6 to 9, comprising the step of: - storing a pairing of the radio switch (1) with the one or more actuators (22, 23, 24).

11. Method according to any of Claims 6 to 10, wherein information (19) is exchanged bidirectionally between the radio switch (1) and the external device (12) via the communication connection.

12. Arrangement comprising a radio switch (1) and an external device (12), wherein the arrangement is configured to carry out a method according to any of Claims 6 to 11.