Compact Controller for Existing Outlets via Radio Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current home automation systems rely on centralized servers for communication, raising privacy concerns and requiring complex hardware and software modifications for device integration, while lacking seamless integration with existing electrical architectures.
Innovation Solution
A compact electrical device controller with a circuit board, connector block, controllable switch, AC-to-DC power converter, and programming port, designed to connect seamlessly with standard electrical outlets and switches, enabling radio communication with a remote system controller without the need for soldering or specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing outlets and switches are replaced with IoT devices, then remote control functionality is achieved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device that interfaces between existing electrical outlets/switches and the control system. This intermediary contains a microcontroller that can read the state of existing switches and relay control commands, allowing IoT functionality without replacing the entire existing infrastructure. The intermediary acts as a bridge that preserves legacy components while adding smart capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed to work with multiple types of existing electrical components (outlets, single-pole switches, three-way switches) through a universal interface. The device can detect and adapt to different switch configurations automatically, providing remote control functionality across various installation scenarios without requiring different specialized devices for each switch type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If specialized hardware modifications are made to integrate devices, then device functionality is enhanced, but ease of manufacture and user installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a control device with microcontroller, a power adapter component, and a communication module. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, then assembled into a complete unit. The modular design enables mass production of standardized components that can be easily installed by users without custom fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses software-based configuration rather than hardware modification to adapt to different installation scenarios. The microcontroller can be programmed with different detection algorithms and control logic to work with various switch types, eliminating the need for physical hardware variations. This parameter-based adaptability maintains manufacturing simplicity while providing versatility.
3Reliability
If centralized server architecture is used for IoT communication, then system coordination is improved, but privacy security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the coordination functionality from a centralized cloud server and implements it locally within the control device itself. The microcontroller contains the logic to manage device states, process commands, and coordinate control actions locally, eliminating the need to transmit personal usage data to external servers. This localizes intelligence while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary layer between the user's local network and any external systems. It can filter and aggregate data before transmission, or process commands locally without external intervention. This intermediary position protects user privacy by preventing direct exposure of detailed usage patterns to manufacturers or third parties while maintaining coordinated control functionality.
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
Provides a privacy-friendly, user-friendly solution for home automation by integrating with existing electrical systems, allowing remote control of devices without a centralized server, while being compact enough to fit within standard electrical boxes.
Implementation Method 1
an AC-to-DC power converter
Implementation Method 2
a controllable switch
Implementation Method 3
provides a means for radio communicating with a remote system controller
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic system that controls existing electrical devices, such as those typically found in buildings such as electrical outlets and single-pole single-throw switches, which can include a circuit board upon which is mounted a connector block, a controllable switch, an AC-to-DC power converter, electrically conductive jumpers, and a control circuit. The electronic system further provides a radio means for communicating with a system controller, which may be local or remote, which provides commands for controlling the electrical device. The electronic system is configured to compactly connect with the existing electrical device by way of the electrically conductive jumpers and to fit within the confines of a single gang electrical box.