Optical Smartphone Provisioning for Wi-Fi Lighting 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 with a controllable conductive device, a controller, and an optical module that receives optical signals for programming and control, enabling it to connect to the Internet and adjust power delivery to a lighting load based on received messages, using technologies like Wi-Fi, NFC, or proprietary protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a load control device uses wireless communication (RF or IR) for remote control, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device cannot connect to the Internet for remote programming and messaging
Solution Approach 1:
The load control device is equipped with multiple communication interfaces including Wi-Fi module, optical communication module, and traditional RF/IR modules. This multi-functionality allows the device to operate in different modes: wireless remote control for ease of operation, and Internet connectivity via Wi-Fi for remote programming and messaging, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a load control device enables Internet connectivity for remote programming, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gateway device as an intermediary between the load control device and the Internet. The gateway handles complex Internet protocols, network management, and data processing, while the load control device uses simpler communication protocols. This mediator approach enables Internet connectivity without significantly increasing the complexity of the load control device itself
3Manufacturing precision
If optical communication is used for programming the load control device, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical alignment-based optical communication with a more robust system that uses visual indicators and automated detection. The device displays visual cues to guide proper alignment, and the optical receiver is designed to detect signals within a broader angular range, reducing the precision alignment requirements while maintaining manufacturing quality
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 devices, enhancing convenience and flexibility in managing lighting settings, and allowing for integration with various communication protocols for seamless operation.
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.