Multi-Zone Dimming Control System with Wireless Scene Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-zone, multi-scene lighting systems require extensive wiring and professional installation, making them costly and complex to implement, especially in existing constructions, and lack the ability to control individual lighting devices within a room effectively.
Innovation Solution
A multi-zone, multi-scene dimming system that eliminates the need for new wiring by integrating a master dimming control system into a single lighting device, such as a chandelier or ceiling light, allowing for remote control of various lighting effects like general area, task, grazing, and accent lighting through a wall-mounted or handheld remote with programmable scenes and fade rates, using power line or wireless technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing multi-zone multi-scene lighting control systems are installed, then multiple lighting zones and scenes can be controlled, but extensive wiring and professional installation are required, increasing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical wiring-based control system with a wireless communication system. Remote controls and wall-mounted controls communicate with lighting devices via wireless signals (RF, infrared, or Bluetooth), eliminating the need for complex electrical wiring between control points and lighting fixtures. This substitution maintains multi-zone multi-scene control capability while dramatically reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal control devices that can control multiple lighting zones and scenes through a single interface. The remote controls and wall-mounted controls are designed to work with various lighting device types and configurations, providing multi-functional control without requiring separate wiring for each lighting zone. This universal approach simplifies the control system while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing multi-zone multi-scene lighting control systems are installed, then multiple lighting zones and scenes can be controlled, but professional installation expertise is required, increasing installation cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables do-it-yourself installation by eliminating the need for professional electricians. The wireless control system can be installed by end-users without specialized electrical knowledge. Lighting devices and control units are designed with user-friendly installation processes, allowing consumers to set up multi-zone multi-scene lighting control independently, thereby reducing installation costs and increasing accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication technology as an intermediary between control devices and lighting fixtures. This intermediary layer eliminates the need for direct electrical wiring connections, allowing control signals to be transmitted through the air or existing power lines. This mediation simplifies installation requirements and removes the barrier of needing professional electrical installation expertise.
3Reliability
If traditional wiring-based lighting control is used, then reliable control can be achieved, but installation in existing constructions requires cutting drywall or lath and plaster, greatly increasing complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with wireless communication technology. Control signals are transmitted wirelessly between remote controls, wall-mounted controls, and lighting devices using RF, infrared, or Bluetooth communication. This substitution maintains reliable control functionality while completely avoiding the need to cut into building structures, thereby eliminating the associated complexity and costs of drywall or lath and plaster work.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the control system from a two-dimensional wiring plane (requiring physical pathways through walls and ceilings) to a three-dimensional wireless space. Control signals propagate through the air space surrounding the building, allowing installation without penetrating structural elements. This dimensional shift enables control system installation that preserves the integrity of existing building constructions while maintaining control reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-scene, multi-zone lighting device includes a support structure supporting multiple lighting zones, an ensemble of the zones defining a lighting scene. A master dimming control built into the support structure has a power input line and multiple dimmers. The zones are coupled to the dimmer output lines to receive a controlled setting from the corresponding dimmer. A remote control device communicates with the master dimming control, and has a memory for storing settings for the multiple zones and a user interface for a user to select a stored setting for each zone or a scene composed of multiple zones. Settings can be prestored or programmed by the user. The master dimming control includes a controller responsive to receiving the set of settings to set the controlled setting of the corresponding dimmer for each zone in the selected scene to conform the zones to the settings in the selected scene.