Multi-Frequency Wireless Outlet Control for Retrofit Wiring Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless sensor systems for controlling power to switches and outlets often require long cabling runs or frequent battery replacements, leading to inefficiencies and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
A wireless sensor system that operates on multiple frequencies and channels, using a dipole or monopole antenna configuration with a metal enclosure as a ground plane, and includes an energy harvester to reduce power consumption, allowing for retrofitting into existing systems without additional wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If long cabling runs are used to control switches and outlets, then power and control signals can be delivered to remote locations, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical cabling system with a wireless communication system. The wireless sensor and controller communicate via wireless signals (e.g., radio frequency) instead of requiring physical cable connections, thereby eliminating the need for long cabling runs while maintaining control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (wireless transceiver system) that mediates between the sensor and controller, allowing data transmission without direct physical connection through cables. This intermediary enables remote control while avoiding installation complexity associated with long cable runs.
2Ease of operation
If battery power is used to operate wireless sensors, then installation flexibility improves, but battery depletion occurs rapidly requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements energy harvesting capability that allows the wireless sensor to generate its own power from environmental sources (such as ambient light, thermal gradients, or vibration). This self-service approach eliminates the need for external battery replacement while maintaining installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power source parameter from finite battery energy to renewable environmental energy. By utilizing energy harvesting from ambient sources, the system transforms the power availability parameter from limited duration to sustained operation.
3Reliability
If additional cabling is used to provide power to local switch and outlet controllers, then reliable power supply is ensured, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical cabling power delivery system with a wireless energy transfer system. Power is transmitted wirelessly to the controller through electromagnetic coupling or radio frequency energy transfer, ensuring reliable power supply without the complexity of additional cabling infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments an apparatus includes a wireless sensor configured to be operatively coupled to a network gateway device that is configured to receive one of a first data packet or a second packet from the wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is configured to send the first data packet at a first time on a first frequency, the first data packet including a payload associated with a value of a measurement that was measured by the wireless sensor. The wireless sensor is configured to send the second data packet at a second time on a second frequency, the second data packet includes a payload associated with the value.