Adaptable Electrical Load Control Device with Wireless Sensor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote control systems for electrical loads integrated with wall switches often require significant modifications to the electrical circuit and do not allow for control when the load is switched off, leading to inconvenient operation modes.
Innovation Solution
A device that locks the electrical switch in a closed position, using a sensor and wireless communication transmitter to enable remote control of the load without modifying the circuit, allowing for conventional operation while preventing inadvertent switching off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a remote control device is integrated into the load or wired in series between the switch and load, then remote control functionality is achieved, but the operation is prevented when the load is switched off by the power supply switch and significant modification of the electrical circuit is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device that couples to the switch without being wired in series with the load. This intermediary contains a sensor that detects switch operations and a wireless transmitter that sends commands to the remote control receiver, thereby enabling remote control functionality without modifying the electrical circuit wiring or preventing operation when the switch is off
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical series wiring system with a wireless communication system. Instead of wiring the remote control receiver in series between the switch and load, the system uses a sensor to detect mechanical switch operations and transmits control signals wirelessly to the receiver, eliminating the need for circuit modifications
2Reliability
If a mechanical locking system is used to prevent inadvertent operation of the wall rocker switch, then inadvertent operation is prevented, but the exclusive use of remote control device is imposed which does not correspond to the desired mode of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sensor detects the state of the mechanical switch and transmits this information wirelessly to the remote control receiver. The system receives feedback about switch operations and can respond appropriately, allowing both manual switch operation and remote control to function without conflict
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal control system that can operate in multiple modes: direct mechanical switch operation, remote control operation, and a combination of both. The intermediary device with sensor and wireless transmitter enables the system to accommodate different operation modes without requiring exclusive use of one method
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure, conventional operation of electrical loads with remote control functionality without circuit modifications, allowing users to control loads without direct intervention and preventing inadvertent deactivation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor arranged to be actuated by the operating member of the first load control circuit and to activate a communication transmitter
Implementation Method 2
activate a communication transmitter, preferably a radio frequency wireless communication transmitter
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a control device (2) for an electrical load (7) arranged to cooperate with a first control circuit (1) comprising an operating member (12). The control device (2) comprises: - a locking device (20) for the position of the first control circuit (1), and - at least one sensor (21) arranged to be actuated by the operating member (12) of the first control circuit (1) and to activate a communication transmitter (22). When the sensor (21) is actuated, the communication transmitter (22) sends a command message (25) to start or stop the load (7) by means of a second control circuit (4). The invention also relates to an electrical switch comprising such a control device.