Faceplate Remote Control With Toggle Detection and Wireless Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems face issues when power is removed from the switched receptacle, rendering wireless communication components unresponsive and limiting user control options, such as plugging into unswitched receptacles which compromises the ability to switch power via wall-mounted switches.
Innovation Solution
A faceplate remote control device is attached to a wall-mounted mechanical light switch, detecting operation of the toggle actuator and generating wireless communication signals to maintain control over connected loads, allowing continuous power and independent operation from the switched receptacle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the load control device is plugged into a switched receptacle, then the device can be controlled by the wall-mounted switch, but the wireless communication component becomes unresponsive when power is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the power supply path for the wireless communication component from the switched receptacle circuit. The device draws power from both the switched receptacle (for load control) and an unswitched receptacle or backup power source (for maintaining wireless communication), ensuring that wireless functionality remains operational even when the main power is cut by the wall switch.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power state parameter of the wireless communication component by providing it with continuous power from an alternative source, while the load control function experiences intermittent power states based on wall switch operation. This parameter differentiation resolves the contradiction between switch control and communication reliability.
2Reliability
If the load control device is plugged into an unswitched receptacle, then continuous power is maintained for wireless communication, but the ability to switch power via wall-mounted switch is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power input into two separate circuits: one from the switched receptacle for load control functionality and another from an unswitched receptacle for wireless communication. This segmentation allows each function to operate independently with its appropriate power source, resolving the contradiction between continuous communication and switchable power control.
Solution Approach 2:
The load control device is designed to perform multiple functions with different power requirements simultaneously - load switching control and wireless communication - by accepting power from multiple sources. This multi-functionality approach allows the device to satisfy both contradictory requirements through a single unified system.
3Device complexity
If the wireless communication component is powered from the switched receptacle, then the device structure is simplified, but user control options and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into multiple input paths, allowing the device to adapt to different installation scenarios. Users can configure the device to draw power from switched or unswitched receptacles based on their specific needs, providing flexibility without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic power management that can adapt its power sourcing based on availability and configuration. The system can switch between different power sources or combinations thereof, providing dynamic flexibility in device placement and installation options while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A faceplate remote control device may be attached to a wall-mounted mechanical light switch that has a toggle actuator. The faceplate remote control device may include a toggle indicator that detects operation of the toggle actuator of the mechanical switch. The toggle indicator may cause the generation of an indication of detected operation of the toggle actuator. The toggle indicator may comprise a sliding member that is configured to move with the toggle actuator. The toggle indicator may comprise an obstruction detection device that includes an infrared (IR) transmitter and an IR receiver. The faceplate remote control device may include a control circuit and a wireless communication circuit. The control circuit may be configured to cause the wireless communication circuit to transmit one or more messages in response to detecting operation of the toggle actuator of the mechanical switch.