Intelligent ECO Switch with Microprocessor Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switches lack the ability to automatically switch from the on to the off position and do not incorporate additional functions for monitoring and reacting to various input variables, limiting their functionality in controlling and regulating household appliances.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent, compact electrical switch (ECO switch) with external sensors and a microprocessor that can evaluate and react to various input variables, such as temperature, light, and power consumption, using an electromagnet actuator for automatic switching and optical display for user feedback, integrated within a standard housing for easy integration into devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external sensors and signal detection capabilities are added to the switch, then the functionality and adaptability of the switch are increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is designed with universal signal detection capabilities that can handle multiple types of signals (analog and digital) through a single input interface. The electronics include a microprocessor that can evaluate various signal types from different sensors (temperature, light, humidity, etc.), allowing one device to perform multiple functions without requiring separate switching mechanisms for each signal type.
Solution Approach 2:
The microprocessor acts as an intermediary between the external sensors and the contact system. It receives and evaluates signals from various sensors, processes the information, and then controls the actuator accordingly. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing the evaluation logic in one component rather than requiring complex direct connections between each sensor and the contact system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the switch incorporates signal evaluation electronics and external sensor interfaces, then additional functions for monitoring and reacting to input variables are enabled, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The signal evaluation electronics, including the microprocessor and sensor interfaces, are integrated into a single compact unit within the switch housing. The external sensor connections are merged into a unified input interface that accepts multiple signal types. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process despite the increased functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronics are designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate different sensor types without requiring custom manufacturing for each sensor configuration. The microprocessor can be programmed to handle various signal types, allowing the same hardware platform to be manufactured once and then configured for different applications through software rather than hardware modifications.
3Extent of automation
If the actuator is operatively connected to the actuating member for automatic switching, then the extent of automation is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microprocessor continuously monitors signals from external sensors and automatically activates the actuator when predetermined conditions are met. This feedback mechanism allows the switch to automatically respond to changing conditions without manual intervention. The system evaluates sensor input, compares it against programmed thresholds, and triggers the actuator accordingly, creating a closed-loop automatic control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch is designed to automatically perform the switching function based on sensor input without requiring external control logic or additional automation components. The microprocessor within the switch itself evaluates the signals and controls the actuator, allowing the device to serve itself by making autonomous decisions about when to switch the contact system based on the evaluated signals.
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 the ECO switch to recognize and respond to device states, integrating additional functions for energy savings and cost reduction by allowing automatic switching and visual feedback, enhancing the control and regulation of household appliances without additional design effort.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is preferably an electromagnet having a coil and an armature
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical switch (1), in particular a rocker switch, with a contact system (3) and with a movable actuating element (4) for switching the contact system (3) between two switching positions, in particular an on and an off position. The switch (1) has a controllable actuator (5), which, when activated, switches the contact system (3) to the other switching position, in particular from the on to the off position of the contact system (3). The switch (1) has an input for acquiring at least one signal, in particular a measured value, and/or electronics, in particular a microprocessor, for evaluating the signal.