Optical Smartphone Programming for Wi-Fi Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a wireless load control device that can connect to the Internet via a wireless connection and control or program a lighting load in response to messages received from a wireless device, such as a smartphone, allowing for remote operation and programming.
Innovation Solution
A load control device comprising a controllable conductive device, a controller, and an optical module that can be coupled in series electrical connection between an AC power source and a load, enabling control based on received optical signals, including those transmitted via a smartphone for programming and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication (RF/IR) is used for load control, then remote operation is enabled, but Internet connectivity and advanced programming capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical module as an intermediary communication interface between the smartphone and the load control device. This optical module enables Internet connectivity and advanced programming capabilities by receiving optical signals from the smartphone, effectively mediating between the wireless communication requirement and the need for Internet connectivity without directly complicating the core control architecture.
2Ease of operation
If optical module is added for smartphone communication, then programming capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical module is designed to serve multiple functions: it can receive optical signals for programming the load control device, transmit device status information back to the smartphone, and potentially support various programming protocols. This multi-functionality improves ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity by consolidating multiple communication tasks into a single module.
3Manufacturing precision
If series connection is used for load control, then control precision is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality into a separate load control device that can be independently installed in series connection. This allows the precision control mechanism to be implemented as a modular unit, simplifying installation by separating the control precision requirements from the overall system integration. The series-connected device can be installed as a standalone component without requiring modification of the entire lighting system.
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 remote control and programming of lighting loads through wireless communication, allowing users to adjust intensity, schedule, and configure lighting settings using smartphones, enhancing convenience and energy management.
Implementation Method 1
The optical module may be operable to receive an optical signal. In an embodiment, the optical signal may be for programming the load control device.
Data Source
AI summary
A load control device for controlling the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load is able to receive radio-frequency (RF) signals from a Wi-Fi-enabled device, such as a smart phone, via a wireless local area network. The load control device comprises a controllably conductive device adapted to be coupled in series between the source and the load, a controller for rendering the controllably conductive device conductive and non-conductive, and a Wi-Fi module operable to receive the RF signals directly from the wireless network. The controller controls the controllably conductive device to adjust the power delivered to the load in response to the wireless signals received from the wireless network. The load control device may further comprise an optical module operable to receive an optical signal, such that the controller may obtain an IP address from the received optical signal and control the power delivered to the load in response to a wireless signal received from the wireless network that includes the IP address.