Animated Light Switch Integrating Action Figure and Sound Unit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional light switch devices lack an engaging and interactive experience, particularly for children, as they do not combine functional lighting control with action figure elements or auditory feedback.

Innovation Solution

A light switch device integrated with an action unit and sound unit, where the action unit, resembling an action figure, manipulates a lever to turn the light on and off, and emits audible sounds when activated, enhancing user interaction and engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional light switch is used, then the lighting control function is provided, but the user experience lacks engagement and interactivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a conventional light switch mechanism with an action figure toy, merging two previously separate objects into a single integrated device. The action figure is positioned such that manipulating its movable parts (arms, legs, head) directly operates the light switch lever, allowing children to control lighting while playing with the figure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The light switch device serves multiple functions: it provides standard lighting control functionality while simultaneously serving as a playable action figure toy. The action figure can be manipulated for play purposes, and its movements are converted into functional switch operations, making the device both a utility object and a toy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If an action figure is integrated with the light switch, then interactivity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveinteractivityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The action figure and light switch are merged into a single integrated unit where the figure's movable parts are mechanically linked to the switch lever. This integration allows the figure to directly control the switch through its movements, creating an interactive experience without requiring separate control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The action figure serves itself by using its own movable parts (arms, legs, head) to operate the light switch. When a child manipulates the figure's limbs, the figure's body movements automatically trigger the switch lever, eliminating the need for separate controls or additional operational mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a sound unit is added to provide auditory feedback, then user engagement is enhanced, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

A sound unit is integrated into the action figure to provide auditory feedback when the figure manipulates the light switch. The sound unit emits sounds corresponding to the figure's actions (such as speaking when the head moves or sounds when limbs move to operate the switch), enhancing the interactive experience by providing sensory feedback beyond visual and tactile cues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The sound unit adds another layer of functionality to the action figure, transforming it from a simple mechanical toy into a multi-sensory interactive device. The figure not only provides mechanical control through its movements but also provides auditory feedback, making it a more engaging and versatile product.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10030859B2Animated light switch system
Publication Date: 2018.07.24 LANGLOIS GUY
  • US10030859B2 patent drawing
  • US10030859B2 patent drawing
  • US10030859B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An animated light switch system includes a light switch that is coupled to a wall. The light switch may be manipulated. The light switch includes a lever and a faceplate. An action unit is coupled to the light switch and the action unit may be manipulated. The action unit engages the lever such that the action unit turns the light switch on and off when the action unit is manipulated. A sound unit is coupled to the action unit. The sound unit emits an audible sound when the light switch is turned on and off.