Modular Sensor Device for Home Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current home automation systems are expensive, difficult to install, and hard to update, requiring users to understand complex instructions for controlling home environments like lighting and temperature.
Innovation Solution
A modular sensor device with a base that attaches to a wall, featuring a power unit for high-voltage AC and a removable control module for low-voltage DC, allowing users to swap control modules without needing to turn off power or hire an electrician, using a wireless mesh network for control and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional home automation systems are installed, then lighting and environmental control functions are achieved, but the system becomes expensive and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The home automation system is divided into separate modular components: a power unit that remains permanently installed and control modules that can be independently added, removed, or swapped. This segmentation allows the base infrastructure to be simple and easy to install, while functionality is expanded through interchangeable modules rather than complex integrated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The power unit is designed as a universal base that can support multiple different control modules for various functions (lighting, temperature, etc.). This multi-functionality approach allows a single simple installation to provide diverse home automation capabilities through interchangeable modules rather than requiring separate complex installations for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional home automation systems are installed, then environmental control is achieved, but the system becomes hard to update
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adaptable architecture where control modules can be easily added, removed, or swapped on the power unit. This dynamic design allows the system to evolve and update functionality without requiring complex reinstallation or system redesign, as users can simply interchange modules to add new capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If users control home automation systems, then environmental control is achieved, but users must understand complicated instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The control modules are designed as simple, interchangeable units that can be easily replaced or upgraded without requiring users to learn complex system configurations. Each module is self-contained and straightforward to operate, allowing users to swap functionality rather than navigate complicated instruction sets for a single complex system.
4Ease of operation
If control modules are swapped in traditional systems, then functionality changes are achieved, but power must be turned off and electricians are required
Solution Approach 1:
The control modules are extracted from the high-voltage electrical system and designed to interface with the power unit through low-voltage, safe connections. This extraction allows modules to be swapped by end-users without exposing them to dangerous electrical components, as the user-accessible portion operates at safe voltage levels while the power unit handles high-voltage connections separately.
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations generally relate to systems, apparatuses, and methods for providing a modular sensor device in a residential environment. In some implementations, a modular sensor device includes a base that attaches to a wall in a living space. The modular sensor device also includes a power unit coupled to a first side of the base, where the power unit receives power from a power source, and where the power unit includes one or more devices that control conditions in an environment of the living space. The modular sensor device also includes a control module removably coupled to a second side of the base, where the module receives power from the power unit, and where the control module performs one or more predetermined control functions.