Direct AC Switching Lighting Control System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting control systems are often complex and costly, making them unsuitable for applications that require simpler, cost-effective solutions while still meeting safety codes and industry standards.
Innovation Solution
A lighting control system using direct AC line voltage or DC power switches to control higher-current-capable relays, reducing the number of switches required and facilitating multiple lighting configurations, which is easier to install and operate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex centralized or decentralized lighting control systems are used, then advanced features such as internet and wireless access, utility interface for load shedding, messaging to issue maintenance alerts, and secure two-way communication are achieved, but initial cost and maintenance cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the microprocessor and programming requirements from the lighting control system, removing the complex computational core while retaining basic switching functionality. This allows the system to provide essential lighting control without the high costs associated with sophisticated computer-based systems, directly addressing the contradiction between advanced features and system complexity/cost
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs inexpensive, readily available AC voltage switches instead of expensive microprocessor-based controllers. These simple mechanical or electromechanical switches provide the necessary control functionality at a fraction of the cost of sophisticated systems, resolving the contradiction by accepting limited functionality in exchange for dramatically reduced complexity and cost
2Ease of operation
If sophisticated computer or controller-based lighting control systems are used, then advanced control capabilities are achieved, but initial cost and maintenance cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses AC voltage switches that directly control the lighting loads without requiring external microprocessors or controllers to intervene. The switches themselves perform the control function through simple on/off or dimming mechanisms, eliminating the need for sophisticated computer-based control systems while maintaining operational capability
3Manufacturing precision
If microprocessor control and programming are required, then precise control is achieved, but installation complexity and commissioning requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes microprocessors and programming requirements from the lighting control system, extracting these complex elements while retaining the essential control functionality through simpler AC voltage switching mechanisms. This eliminates the need for complex installation and commissioning procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces electronic/microprocessor-based control systems with direct AC voltage switching mechanisms. This substitution eliminates the need for programming and complex electronic control, simplifying both installation and maintenance while providing sufficient control precision for basic lighting applications
Data Source
AI summary
The invention offers an improvement in lighting control systems by providing a simplified power switching control system (i.e., using direct AC line voltage or DC current power switches instead of low voltage switches that control higher-current-capable relays) that controls the power to the power supplies that drive the light producing devices in a plurality of luminaires or lighting fixtures in a given installation. The lighting control system facilitates multiple modes of lighting configurations while requiring fewer switches that the prior art and also being easier to operate. The system supports the simultaneous use of multiple lighting technologies. Other embodiments showing extensions to the invention are also disclosed.