Lighting Device Soft Interface Hardware State Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lighting devices face challenges with hardware-based configuring due to limited space, which restricts the range of settings available, and software-based configuring requires expertise and specialized tools, making it complex and inflexible.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device equipped with both hardware and software interfaces allows users to set hardware elements to desired states through a soft interface, enabling flexible configuration without excessive space requirements or user expertise, while preventing unauthorized changes by separating the programming port and using protected memory parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hardware-based configuring is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to limited space for hardware elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hardware configuration system (DIP switches, physical connectors) with a software-based configuration system. The processor reads configuration data from memory, eliminating the need for physical hardware elements to be accessible by users. This substitution maintains ease of operation through user-friendly software interfaces while reducing the physical space required for configuration components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software-based configuring is used, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to required expertise and specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration capabilities where the system automatically detects and configures parameters without requiring deep user expertise. The processor autonomously reads configuration data from memory, and the system provides automatic recognition of connected devices and parameters, reducing the need for specialized knowledge while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration layer between the user and the complex software parameters. This intermediary interface abstracts the complexity of software configuration, presenting users with simplified options while the underlying system handles the complex parameter mappings and device recognition automatically.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hardware elements are increased for more settings, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses software copies of configuration data stored in memory to replace physical hardware elements. Instead of adding more physical DIP switches or connectors, the system creates software-based configuration profiles that can be loaded into memory, providing extensive adaptability without increasing physical device complexity or space requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A lighting device comprises a memory and a processor configured to control operation of the lighting device by executing a program stored in said memory. The lighting device comprises a hardware element that is coupled to said processor and adapted to acquire one of a plurality of possible states. The lighting device comprises a hard interface available to a user for allowing said user to set said hardware element to a desired one of said plurality of possible states. Additionally, the lighting device comprises a soft interface available to a configurer for allowing said configurer to select and store into said lighting device an effect that a set state of said hardware element is to cause during the execution of said program.