Dimmer Switch Secondary Isolation Circuit Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dimmer switches face challenges in providing additional functionality while minimizing component cost and complexity, as well as optimizing power usage.
Innovation Solution
A dimmer switch system incorporating a secondary switch and a secondary switch isolation circuit with a transistor to provide impedance between the power source and a processor, allowing for additional functionality and efficient power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is provided to dimmer switches, then the versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a secondary switch that can serve multiple functions: it can act as an on/off switch, a dimmer control, or a scene control depending on the configuration. This multi-functional approach allows the dimmer switch to provide enhanced versatility without requiring entirely separate control mechanisms for each function, thereby improving functionality while managing complexity through a unified control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the control functionality into distinct segments: a primary switch for basic on/off control and a secondary switch for additional functions. This segmentation allows each switch to be optimized for its specific purpose while working together within a single device, enabling enhanced functionality without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is provided to dimmer switches, then the versatility is improved, but the component cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional secondary switch that can perform multiple roles (on/off control, dimming, scene setting) using a single component implementation. This approach avoids the need for multiple separate components or circuits for each function, thereby reducing component costs while still providing enhanced versatility to the end user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the secondary switch functionality with the existing dimmer switch architecture, merging multiple control functions into a unified device. This consolidation allows shared use of common components such as the processor, power supply, and output circuitry, thereby reducing overall component costs compared to implementing separate devices for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a secondary switch is added to the dimmer switch system, then the versatility is improved, but the power usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a isolation circuit that periodically controls the connection between the secondary switch and the processor based on operational states. The isolation transistor switches between connected and isolated states, enabling the secondary switch to communicate with the processor only when needed, thereby reducing continuous power consumption while maintaining full functionality when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an isolation circuit as an intermediary between the secondary switch and the processor. This isolation circuit includes a transistor that controls the electrical connection, allowing the system to disconnect the secondary switch from the processor when not in use, thereby minimizing standby power consumption while preserving full functionality during active operation.
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
The solution enables the dimmer switch system to offer enhanced functionality with reduced complexity and power consumption, effectively addressing the limitations of existing dimmer switches.
Implementation Method 1
a secondary switch isolation circuit including a transistor electrically coupled between the power source and the processor and being structured to provide impedance between the power source and the processor
Data Source
AI summary
A dimmer switch system electrically connected between a power source and a load includes a primary housing including a primary switch actuatable by a user, a processor structured to change a state of the dimmer switch based on actuation of either the primary switch or the secondary switch, and a secondary switch isolation circuit. The dimmer switch system also includes a secondary housing including a secondary switch actuatable by the user and being electrically connected to the power source. The secondary switch isolation circuit is electrically connected between the secondary switch and the processor, the secondary switch isolation circuit including a transistor electrically coupled between the power source and the processor and being structured to provide impedance between the power source and the processor. The secondary switch isolation circuit is structured to provide a signal to the processor based on a state of the secondary switch.