Modular Lamp Controller with Rotatable Signal Window
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Solution Overview
Problem
Most light fixtures lack remote control mechanisms, requiring manufacturers to redesign fixtures to include control electronics and mechanisms, which is a barrier to adding remote control functionality.
Innovation Solution
A modular control system that includes a housing with a removable and reconfigurable window for receiving signals, a sensor, and a controller to position a lamp using a motor, allowing for flexible installation and compatibility with various lamp designs, while separating power supply from the motor and lamp.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers add remote control electronics and mechanisms to light fixtures, then remote control functionality is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and redesign costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is designed as a separate, self-contained unit with housing, sensor, and controller that can be independently installed in the light fixture without redesigning the entire fixture. This segmentation allows manufacturers to add remote control functionality as a modular component rather than integrating it into the core fixture design.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed to be universally compatible with various light fixture types and geometries. The housing can be oriented in multiple positions (ceiling, wall, track mounting) and the window can be rotated to different orientations, allowing a single module design to serve multiple fixture configurations and manufacturer requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control electronics are integrated into the fixture housing, then remote control is enabled, but manufacturing costs and regulatory approval complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is pre-assembled and pre-tested as a complete functional unit before installation in the light fixture. The housing, sensor, and controller are configured and validated together in advance, which simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces the complexity of regulatory approval by treating the module as a certified component rather than requiring approval of the entire integrated fixture.
3Reliability
If the window is fixed in the housing, then signal reception is stable, but the module cannot adapt to different fixture geometries and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The window is designed to be rotatable relative to the housing, allowing it to dynamically change its orientation. This enables the control module to adapt to different fixture geometries and mounting positions (ceiling, wall, track) while maintaining reliable signal reception by orienting the window toward the remote control transmitter regardless of the fixture's installation orientation.
4Ease of manufacture
If the sensor is fixed relative to the housing, then internal alignment is simple, but the module cannot be installed in various orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is mounted on a mechanism that allows it to rotate or reposition relative to the housing. This dynamic positioning capability enables the sensor to maintain proper alignment with the window and external signal source regardless of how the entire control module is oriented during installation, while keeping the internal mounting mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor mounting mechanism is designed with asymmetric features that allow the sensor to be positioned at different angles relative to the housing. This asymmetric design enables the sensor to face the correct direction for signal reception while the housing itself can be installed in various orientations, decoupling the sensor's operational orientation from the fixture's installation orientation.
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
Enables remote control of lamp position and brightness in a modular form, reducing manufacturing costs and streamlining regulatory approval, with a reconfigurable design that fits various geometries and materials, including those that block radio signals.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor disposed within the housing so as to face the window, the sensor configured to receive a signal provided from outside the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A modular controller for a lamp allows for the easy addition of remote control to multiple lamp fixture designs. The controller housing protects circuitry from shorts and has a window included for receiving remote control signals. The window is detachable and can be re-oriented relative to the controller housing to accommodate different lamp fixture designs. The position of the sensors within the controller housing can also be reconfigured, and it is also possible to connect external sensors to the controller for situations where sensors must be placed in a tight space. In some embodiments, the lamp power supply is incorporated within the modular controller, saving space and cost, and allowing for dimming of individual lamps.