Master-Slave Outlet Control for Standby Power and Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical appliances in standby mode and unattended lighting fixtures contribute significantly to energy wastage due to phantom consumption, and existing safety measures for outlets are inadequate, particularly in households with children.
Innovation Solution
A hierarchical control system comprising master and slave devices with optical sensors and communication circuits that allow remote control and automatic switching based on ambient light levels, enabling centralized management of electrical appliances and ensuring safety by interrupting current when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrical appliances remain connected to mains in standby mode, then they are ready for immediate use, but they consume energy continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by keeping appliances in a controlled standby state through the master device, which can quickly activate them when needed. The master device maintains communication readiness and can immediately power on connected appliances without requiring continuous full-power operation, thus reducing phantom consumption while preserving quick accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switches and continuous power connection with an electronic control system using the master device. This system uses electrical signals through communication circuits to control appliance power states, substituting mechanical intervention with electronic control that can more efficiently manage power delivery and reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
2Ease of operation
If lighting fixtures are left on for convenience, then illumination is continuously available, but energy is wasted unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The master device incorporates feedback mechanisms through optical sensors that detect ambient light levels and automatically adjust lighting fixture operation accordingly. When sufficient natural light is detected, the system automatically turns off lighting fixtures, eliminating the need for manual intervention and preventing unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining convenience through automated response to environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting control system provides self-service by automatically monitoring ambient light conditions and making decisions about when to turn lighting fixtures on or off. The optical sensors and control circuitry in the master device enable the system to autonomously manage lighting without requiring user presence or manual operation, thus preventing energy waste from forgotten lights while maintaining convenience.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If mechanical safety elements are used in outlets, then physical protection is provided, but they fail when stressed or broken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical safety elements in outlets with an electronic control system centered on the master device. Instead of relying on physical barriers that can break or fail under stress, the system uses electrical control signals to manage power delivery to connected devices. The master device can remotely interrupt power supply and monitor device status, providing more reliable protection that doesn't depend on the mechanical integrity of outlet covers or plugs.
Solution Approach 2:
The master device acts as an intermediary between the electrical network and connected appliances, mediating power delivery and safety control. Rather than relying on passive mechanical elements at the outlet, the master device actively manages power flow and can interrupt electrical current as needed, providing a more reliable safety mechanism that operates through electronic control rather than mechanical barriers.
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
Significantly reduces energy consumption by automatically turning off appliances and lighting fixtures, enhances user convenience through remote control, and provides enhanced safety by preventing accidental electrical contact, especially in environments with children.
Implementation Method 1
said first switch device or said second switch device comprises an optical sensor designed to detect a light level in an environment in which said first switch device or said second switch device is located
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement for controlling electrical gadgets, which comprises at least one master device and a slave switch device; or at least one master device and a slave socket device; or at least two master devices, as long as at least one of them is a switch-type device; or any of the master and switch devices and an external control. The arrangement for controlling electrical gadgets provides safety to the user and a substantial energy saving while generating comfort for the user.