Faceplate-Fit Wireless Remote for Flexible RF Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF lighting control systems require multiple control devices for different mounting options, such as table top, wall, and car visor, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device with a housing designed to fit within a standard faceplate opening, equipped with a radio-frequency transmitter, battery, and multiple mounting options like a lanyard, clip, and slide-mount plate, allowing it to be mounted on various surfaces including a wall or car visor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control devices are used for different mounting options (table top, wall, car visor), then each device can be optimized for its specific mounting location, but the system complexity and the number of devices required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single remote control device with a standardized housing that can be mounted in multiple locations (table top, wall, car visor) through different mounting mechanisms. The housing serves multiple functions: it protects internal components, provides a standardized interface for RF transmission, and accommodates various mounting options via integrated or attachable mounting mechanisms, thereby eliminating the need for multiple specialized control devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the mounting mechanisms from the main housing body. The housing contains standardized mounting interfaces that can accept different mounting attachments (e.g., wall mounting plates, car visor clips, table top bases), allowing the core device to remain unchanged while adapting to different mounting locations through interchangeable or attachable mounting components
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single remote control device is designed to fit standard faceplate openings, then it can be mounted on walls using standard electrical boxes, but the housing dimensions are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with universal dimensions that match standard electrical faceplate openings, enabling wall mounting in standard electrical boxes. This standardized sizing allows the same housing to be used across different installation locations and configurations, providing versatility while accepting dimensional constraints as a trade-off for broad compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The housing dimensions are specifically designed to match standard faceplate parameters (opening sizes), transforming the constraint into a feature. By aligning the housing dimensions with industry standards, the device gains universal wall mounting capability while the dimensional parameters are optimized for this specific application
3Ease of manufacture
If the remote control housing is made compact to fit standard faceplate openings, then it can be installed in standard electrical boxes, but the internal space for components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the battery, RF transmitter, control circuitry, and mounting mechanisms in a compact, space-efficient arrangement within the housing. Components are nested closely together or integrated into each other (e.g., PCB mounting, integrated battery compartments) to maximize the use of available internal volume while maintaining all necessary functions within the constrained dimensions required for standard faceplate installation
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 single remote control device that can be easily mounted in multiple locations, enhancing convenience and reducing the need for multiple control devices while maintaining reliable RF communication for controlling lighting loads.
Implementation Method 1
a battery coupled to provide power to the controller and the radio-frequency transmitter
Implementation Method 2
radio-frequency (RF) transmission to provide wireless communication between the control devices of the system
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control for a wireless load control system, the remote control comprising: a housing having a front surface and an outer periphery defined by a length and a width; an actuator provided at the front surface of the housing; a wireless transmitter contained within the housing; and a controller contained within the housing and coupled to the wireless transmitter for causing transmission of a wireless signal in response to an actuation of the actuator, the wireless transmitter and the controller adapted to be powered by a battery contained within the housing; wherein the length and the width of the housing are slightly smaller than a length and a width of a standard opening of a faceplate, respectively, such that the outer periphery of the housing is adapted to be received within the standard opening of the faceplate when the housing and the faceplate are mounted to a vertical surface.