Power Receptacle Wireless Access Point Devices for Home Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current home automation systems are limited in their ability to integrate multiple components and require extensive installation efforts, including wiring and modifications to building infrastructure, making them costly and difficult to use, and often rely on third-party services with monthly subscription fees.
Innovation Solution
The development of devices such as smart outlets, switches, and adapters that form a network using power line communication, allowing for wireless connectivity and integration with a digital hub to monitor and control various parameters like temperature, motion, and air quality, enabling a comprehensive home automation system without the need for additional cabling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional home automation systems are implemented using specially designed control and monitor devices with third-party services, then centralized control and monitoring capabilities are provided, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly due to wiring requirements and building infrastructure modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with wireless communication technology. The control and monitor devices communicate with the central hub via wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical cable installation and building infrastructure modifications while maintaining centralized control capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary that mediates between the control/monitor devices and the central hub. This intermediary enables data transmission without direct physical connections, simplifying installation while preserving system functionality
2Reliability
If traditional home automation systems are implemented with extensive wiring and building infrastructure modifications, then reliable control and monitoring are achieved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical wiring connections with wireless communication links, maintaining system reliability through robust wireless protocols while dramatically improving installation ease by eliminating the need for professional electricians and building infrastructure work
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables end-users to install and configure the home automation system themselves without requiring professional installation services. The wireless devices are designed for plug-and-play setup, allowing users to independently achieve reliable control and monitoring
3Reliability
If third-party service providers are used for home automation installation and maintenance, then professional support is provided, but ongoing subscription fees are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent empowers end-users to perform installation, configuration, and maintenance tasks independently through intuitive setup procedures and user-friendly interfaces, eliminating the need for ongoing professional service subscriptions while maintaining system reliability through self-troubleshooting capabilities
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
These devices create a comprehensive home automation network that can monitor and control various parameters, providing enhanced convenience, energy efficiency, and security without the need for extensive installation or third-party services, allowing users to manage their home environments more effectively.
Implementation Method 1
a power line communication circuit, the circuit configured to receive data from and to transmit data on a power line
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are power receptacle wireless access point (AP) devices that may be used as part of a networked (smart) living and work space. These power receptacle wireless AP devices may be wall-mounted and/or retrofitted over existing electrical outlets or light switches, for providing wireless access to a room or region of a room. The power receptacle wireless AP device may connect via power line communication to a data connection.