Occupancy Light Control with Adaptive Ambient Threshold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital load control devices lack the ability to adjust the ambient light threshold after installation, and mechanisms for adjustment are often hidden or add additional cost.
Innovation Solution
A load control device with an occupancy detection circuit and ambient light detector that automatically adjusts the ambient light threshold based on user interactions within a predetermined time period after detecting occupancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated mechanism (knob or button) is provided for adjusting the ambient light threshold, then the adaptability of the device is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically adjusts the ambient light threshold by detecting user interactions (such as manual override of automatic lighting control) and using these interactions to modify the threshold value, eliminating the need for dedicated adjustment mechanisms while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors user behavior patterns and feedback (manual overrides, usage timing) to dynamically adjust the ambient light threshold, allowing the device to learn and adapt to user preferences without requiring physical adjustment controls
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated mechanism for adjusting the ambient light threshold is provided, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to hidden mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is integrated into the normal operation of the device, where users interact with the device in its conventional manner (manual override, usage patterns) to trigger automatic threshold adjustment, making the adjustment process as easy as normal operation without hidden controls
3Ease of operation
If the lighting load is turned on in response to occupancy detection regardless of ambient light levels, then the ease of operation is improved, but the energy savings deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the parameter (ambient light threshold) based on detected conditions, adjusting it automatically to balance between energy savings and ease of operation by learning user preferences and environmental factors
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 user-friendly and cost-effective adjustment of the ambient light threshold, optimizing energy savings by accurately responding to user preferences and ambient conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an ambient light detector for measuring the ambient light level
Data Source
AI summary
A load control device adapted to be coupled between an AC power source and an electrical load for controlling the power delivered to the load includes a controller, an actuator for turning the electrical load on and off, an occupancy detection circuit, and an ambient light detector. The load control device automatically turns on the electrical load in response to the presence of an occupant only if the detected ambient light is below a predetermined ambient light level threshold. After first detecting the presence of an occupant, the load control device monitors actuations of the actuator to determine whether a user has changed the state of the load. The load control device automatically adjusts the predetermined ambient light level threshold in response to the user actuations that change the state of the load.