Light switch apparatus, control system, and control method thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light switch apparatuses lack automated and convenient means to adjust lighting intensity based on time-dependent electricity prices and do not effectively inform users of price changes, hindering cost-saving opportunities.
Innovation Solution
A light switch apparatus with a network communication unit that receives electricity price data from a server and outputs visual or audible signals to indicate high and low price ranges, along with a power control circuit to adjust lighting intensity accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If light switch apparatuses use manual dimming controls (rotational knobs, mechanical sliders, buttons), then users can adjust lighting intensity according to personal preference, but users cannot automatically save electricity costs based on time-dependent electricity prices
Solution Approach 1:
The light switch apparatus automatically receives electricity price information from a server, compares current prices against historical data, and adjusts lighting intensity without user intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously making pricing-based decisions, eliminating the need for users to manually monitor prices and adjust controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously receives real-time electricity price feedback from a server, processes this information, and automatically adjusts lighting intensity in response to price changes. The apparatus provides visual feedback to users through display elements showing current price levels and automated actions taken, creating a closed-loop control system.
2Loss of information
If light switch apparatuses provide no price information to users, then the device complexity remains low, but users cannot make informed decisions to optimize energy usage based on electricity prices
Solution Approach 1:
A server acts as an intermediary between the utility company's pricing system and the light switch apparatus. The server collects electricity price information, processes it into comparable formats, and delivers it to multiple apparatuses. This intermediary handles the complex information processing, keeping the individual light switch apparatuses relatively simple while still providing comprehensive price information.
Solution Approach 2:
The light switch apparatus integrates multiple functions: it serves as a traditional light control switch, a dimmer, a price information display device, and an automated energy management system. By combining these functions into a single universal device, the system reduces information loss while managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate components.
3Loss of energy
If the light switch apparatus automatically adjusts lighting based on electricity prices, then electricity costs are reduced, but the system requires network communication and server integration increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-receiving and storing electricity price information from the server before peak pricing periods occur. It compares upcoming prices against current settings and proactively adjusts lighting intensity in advance of high-cost periods, maximizing energy cost savings. This preliminary action allows the system to anticipate price changes rather than merely reacting to them.
Data Source
AI summary
A light switch apparatus includes a network communication unit and an output unit. The network communication unit is configured to receive electricity price rate server information from a server, and generate a first high range electricity price output data and a second low range electricity price rate data according to the electricity price rate server information. The output unit is configured to display at least a first output color in response to receiving the first high range electricity price output data from the network communication unit, and a second output color in response to receiving the second low range electricity price rate data from the network communication unit.