Microprocessor Switch with Display for Energy Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical switches require additional components and complexity for controlling multiple applications, lacking an integrated solution for managing system states and energy efficiency in domestic appliances.
Innovation Solution
A switch with a microprocessor-controlled actuation element and display that allows selection of system states (e.g., shut-off time, temperature) by comparing actual values with stored maximum values, initiating specific signals and warning signals for energy management, enabling efficient operation and energy-saving features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single switch is used to control electrical appliances, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to manage multiple system states and applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it can select between different system states (first, second, third states), control appliance operation, and provide warning signals. A single switch housing integrates all these functions, eliminating the need for separate control devices for each function while maintaining full adaptability across multiple applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch incorporates a microprocessor that dynamically changes its behavior based on the selected system state. The microprocessor adapts the switch's control logic, warning signal thresholds, and operational parameters according to which system state is active, allowing the same physical switch to handle diverse control scenarios without additional hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switches are used to control different system states, then system state control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single switch device. The first, second, and third system states are all controlled through one switch housing with one actuator, rather than requiring separate switches for each state. The microprocessor integrates the control logic for all states within a single device, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single switch is designed as a universal controller that can manage multiple system states and appliance functions. By making the switch multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for multiple specialized switches while maintaining full control capability across all system states.
3Use of energy by moving object
If additional components are added to the switch for energy management, then energy management capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microprocessor within the switch automatically monitors operational parameters, compares them against predefined thresholds for each system state, and generates warning signals when limits are approached. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external energy management components or separate monitoring devices, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining advanced energy management functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch incorporates feedback mechanisms where the microprocessor continuously monitors appliance operation and provides real-time warning signals when operational parameters approach maximum limits. This integrated feedback system enables effective energy management without requiring additional external components, keeping manufacturing costs low.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A switch for controlling an electrical appliance has a switch housing (7), an actuation element (6), a display (4), and a microprocessor (3) disposed in the switch housing (7). The actuation element (6) can activate an identifier through the display (4), which identifier is determined by the microprocessor (3). Selection of an appropriate system state and an associated maximum value is effected by again actuating the actuation element (6), specifically while the corresponding identifier associated with this system state is active or displayed. Reaching or exceeding the maximum value is indicated by a signal that is produced by the microprocessor (3). The microprocessor (3) can optionally be activated once again for a reset mode and/or for a change mode.