Motorized Switch Cover for Remote Toggle Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Homeowners face challenges in retrofitting existing electrical switches to add remote control capabilities without the need for expensive equipment or replacing entire light switches, as existing solutions require access to household AC voltages and are not user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled switch cover assembly that converts a standard toggle switch into a remotely controlled switch using a switch cover with a gear train, electric motor, motor driving circuitry, receiver, and processing circuitry, allowing wireless or internet-based control of lights and other devices while maintaining manual operation capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If Wi-Fi enabled light switches are used to enable remote control, then remote control functionality is achieved, but the cost increases and replacement of entire light switch is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the remote control system into two separate components: an existing light switch and a separate control module that can be independently installed and operated. This segmentation allows the control functionality to be added without replacing the entire light switch assembly, reducing complexity and cost while maintaining remote control capability.
2Extent of automation
If Wi-Fi enabled light switches are used to enable remote control, then remote control functionality is achieved, but expensive equipment must be purchased
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is designed to work with standard, widely-available light switches and power sources, eliminating the need for specialized expensive equipment. By using common components and existing infrastructure, the system reduces costs while maintaining full remote control functionality through self-contained operation.
3Extent of automation
If replacement of entire light switch is performed to add remote control, then remote control functionality is achieved, but access to household AC voltages is required
Solution Approach 1:
The separate control module acts as an intermediary between the user and the light switch system. It interfaces with the existing switch through mechanical or electrical coupling that does not require direct exposure to household AC voltages, thereby mediating the interaction and eliminating the need for users to handle dangerous electrical components during installation or operation.
4Extent of automation
If standard toggle switch is converted to remote controlled switch using switch cover, then remote control functionality is added, but manual operation capability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables remote control operation while simultaneously preserving and facilitating manual operation of the light switch. This multi-functionality ensures that the system adapts to different user needs and situations, providing versatility in how the lighting can be controlled without compromising either remote or manual capability.
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 homeowners to retrofit existing switches for remote control functionality economically and safely, allowing manual operation without damaging components, and integrates with home automation systems for seamless control.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor, coupled to the gear train, for driving the gear train in a first direction to cause the switch toggle member to place the toggle light switch member into the on position, and for driving the gear train in a second direction to cause the switch toggle member to place the toggle light switch member into the off position
Data Source
AI summary
A light switch cover for converting a standard toggle switch into a remote-controlled toggle switch. In one embodiment, the light switch cover comprises a switch toggle member for acting upon a toggle light switch member to place the toggle light switch member into either an on position or an off position, a gear train coupled to the switch toggle member that causes the switch toggle member to act upon the toggle light switch member, an electric motor, coupled to the gear train, for driving the gear train in a first direction to cause the switch toggle member to place the toggle light switch member into the on position, and for driving the gear train in a second direction to cause the switch toggle member to place the toggle light switch member into the off position, motor driving circuitry coupled to the electric motor, a receiver for receiving signals that cause actuation of the standard toggle switch, and processing circuitry coupled to the receiver and the motor driving circuitry that causes the light switch cover to receive a signal to turn the toggle switch into the on position and, in response, causing the electric motor to rotate in a direction to cause the switch toggle member to place the toggle light switch member into the on position.