Miniature Remote Control System for Lighting and Appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote control systems for lighting and appliances are often complex, expensive, and prone to interference, lacking simplicity and convenience, especially for controlling light levels from multiple locations within a room.
Innovation Solution
A miniature remote controller system with two buttons (UP and DOWN) for controlling lights or appliances, designed to be small, inexpensive, and easily mountable on various objects, using pre-programmed microprocessors for error correction and user intention inference, compatible with multiple receiver types such as light bulb adapters, lamp sockets, and wallswitch dimmers, allowing for flexible and interference-free control without a central station.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional remote control systems are used, then lighting and appliances can be controlled remotely, but the systems become complex and expensive with interference problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the remote control system into independent miniature controllers and receivers. Each controller is a separate, simple unit with minimal buttons, and each receiver independently processes signals. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex centralized control systems and allows multiple controllers to operate without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, disposable miniature remote controllers that can be easily replaced. These controllers are designed to be low-cost items with simple functionality, eliminating the need for expensive, complex reusable systems. The disposable nature allows for easy replacement without concern for maintenance or complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple remote controls are used in a room, then control from multiple locations is enabled, but interference between controls occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns unique characteristics to each receiver, allowing it to selectively respond to specific controllers. Each receiver can be configured to accept signals only from designated controllers, creating localized control zones within the room. This prevents interference between multiple controllers while maintaining the ability to control devices from multiple locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where receivers acknowledge and confirm received signals. This feedback allows controllers to verify successful communication and enables the system to manage multiple controllers reliably by confirming which controller is currently active and which devices are responding.
3Adaptability or versatility
If elaborate home automation systems are used, then comprehensive control is achieved, but the systems become expensive and require extensive configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service linking where controllers and receivers automatically establish communication without manual configuration. When a controller approaches a receiver, they automatically pair through a simplified process, eliminating the need for users to consult manuals or enter codes. This maintains comprehensive control functionality while removing complex configuration requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary pairing actions automatically during initial setup or when devices are brought into proximity. Controllers and receivers pre-establish communication channels and identification protocols before actual control operations begin, so users never need to manually configure the system during normal use.
4Device complexity
If a single remote control is used, then the system is simple, but control from multiple locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal miniature controllers that can control multiple different devices and receivers. Each controller maintains simple two-button operation but can be linked to various receivers for lights, appliances, or other devices. This universality allows a single simple controller design to provide multi-location control flexibility across diverse devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for remote control of lights and small appliances utilizing miniature remote control units, and a method for easily and simply setting which remote controls control which item(s). Unlike conventional remote controls which are moved from place to place, these miniature remote controls are so small they may be removably mounted at each location needed, unobtrusively or even hidden. Receivers for the remote signal are described manufactured within a lamp socket assembly, a very short light bulb socket adapter, the light bulb itself, a wallswitch dimmer and an outlet adapter. One remote control can control multiple receivers, or vice versa, or any other combination, without conflict and with the combination set up or changed more intuitively than in completing systems. Appliances may be turned on or off and lights may be dimmed precisely or set flashing in unison to summon help.