Programmable Switching System with Networked ISDs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current household electrical switching systems are cumbersome and expensive to program, making it difficult to control multiple lights and appliances simultaneously, such as turning on bedroom, hallway, and bathroom lights from a single location without the need for complex and costly intelligent automation tools.
Innovation Solution
A programmable switching system comprising interconnected switching devices (ISDs) with unique network addresses, where a master ISD communicates with slave ISDs over a network, allowing users to program and control multiple appliances through a simple switch interface, enabling simultaneous on/off functions without additional wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional intelligent household automation tools are used to control multiple lights and appliances simultaneously, then the control functionality is achieved, but the system cost and programming complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the household automation function into independent interconnected switching devices (ISDs), each capable of operating autonomously or in coordination with others. Each ISD is a self-contained unit with switch, communication interface, microprocessor, and memory, allowing modular deployment without requiring a complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
Each ISD is designed as a universal device that can control different types of electrical loads (lights, appliances) and can operate in multiple modes (individual control, grouped control, scene control). The same basic hardware platform serves multiple functions through software configuration rather than requiring specialized devices for each function.
2Ease of operation
If traditional intelligent household automation tools are used to control multiple lights and appliances simultaneously, then the control functionality is achieved, but the system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses standard, readily available components (microcontrollers, communication modules, switch hardware) that can be mass-produced and copied across multiple ISD units. This approach leverages existing manufacturing ecosystems rather than requiring custom-built expensive automation equipment, significantly reducing system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Each ISD is designed as a cost-effective, replaceable unit with standardized functionality. If an individual ISD fails or needs upgrading, it can be replaced independently without affecting the entire system, reducing the risk and cost associated with system-wide failures.
3Ease of operation
If multiple switches are installed in different locations to control different lights, then each light can be controlled locally, but the ability to control all lights simultaneously from one location is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the control capabilities of multiple distributed switches into a unified networked system. Each ISD retains its local switching function while also being able to communicate with and control other ISDs, enabling both local control and simultaneous whole-house control from any single location.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication network acts as an intermediary between distributed ISDs, enabling them to exchange control signals and coordinate actions. This allows a switch in one location to send commands through the network to switches and loads in other locations, achieving simultaneous control without direct physical connection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional wiring is installed to enable simultaneous control of multiple appliances from one switch, then the control capability is improved, but the installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical/electrical wiring-based control system with a communication-based control system. Instead of running additional control wires throughout the building, ISDs use wireless or existing data network infrastructure to transmit control signals, eliminating the need for complex additional wiring while maintaining full control capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a programmable switching system having N interconnected switching devices (ISDs), each of the ISDs having a unique network address. An ISD includes a switch operating in switching mode and programming mode, a communication interface, a microprocessor, and a memory. The microprocessor controls operation of ISDs when switch is in switching mode and programs ISD when switch is in programming mode. The memory includes a network address storage, and firmware. When the firmware is executed at the microprocessor, firmware is configured to: communicate with all ISDs of programmable switching system through communication interface over a network, receive user's inputs at switches of ISDs, and in response of the received user's inputs, to program ISDs, when switch is in programming mode, and receive user's input at the switch to perform switching functions of the ISD, when the switch is in switching mode.