Pushbutton Control Module With Photodetector For Emergency Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional emergency lighting systems have large or dispersed controls, limiting miniaturization and requiring improved, compact, and integrated control solutions for efficient operation and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A pushbutton-controlled switch system with a photodetector and an opening for object insertion, allowing remote control of electrical flow through light transmission and physical interaction, enabling compact and efficient control modules for emergency lighting systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional controls are used in emergency lighting systems, then the system can be operated and controlled, but the control components become large and dispersed, limiting miniaturization and efficient space utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions (pushbutton switch, photodetector, object insertion control) into a single integrated control module that fits within a compact housing. This merging of previously dispersed control components into one unified unit directly addresses the contradiction by reducing overall control system volume while preserving all necessary control functionalities for emergency lighting operation, testing, and commissioning
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed to perform multiple functions through different input mechanisms: the pushbutton provides user-actuated control, the photodetector enables remote control via light transmission, and the object insertion capability allows commissioning and testing operations. This multi-functionality ensures that despite the reduced size, the control system maintains comprehensive operational capabilities across all required scenarios
2Area of stationary object
If control components are miniaturized and integrated, then space utilization improves, but the complexity of integrating multiple control functions into a compact module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is segmented into distinct functional sections: a pushbutton mechanism for manual control, a photodetector assembly for optical control, an object insertion receptacle for commissioning, and associated circuitry. Each segment is independently designed and then integrated into the compact housing. This segmentation approach manages integration complexity by creating modular sub-components that can be independently optimized and assembled, rather than designing one monolithic complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary elements to bridge different control modalities: the pushbutton acts as an intermediary between user finger pressure and electrical switch activation; the photodetector serves as an intermediary converting light signals into electrical control signals; and the object insertion mechanism provides an intermediary interface for commissioning operations. These intermediaries simplify the integration complexity by providing standardized interface points between different control functions and the underlying electrical 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
The solution provides a compact and integrated control system that supports system testing, user interface, and remote operation, enhancing miniaturization, space utilization, and operational efficiency in emergency lighting systems.
Implementation Method 1
The pushbutton can be formed of a material that transmits light from the user side to the switch side so that light can pass through the pushbutton for receipt by the photodetector
Implementation Method 2
A photodetector can be located on the switch side of the pushbutton. The pushbutton can be formed of a material that transmits light from the user side to the switch side so that light can pass through the pushbutton for receipt by the photodetector
Data Source
AI summary
A pushbutton and an electrical switch can be linked to one another so that movement of the pushbutton, for example by a user depressing the pushbutton, can control the switch. The switch can be in a closed position prior to being depressed and in an open position afterwards, or vice versa. A photodetector can be located on the switch side of the pushbutton. The pushbutton can be formed of a material that transmits light so that light can pass through the pushbutton for receipt by the photodetector. The pushbutton can additionally or alternatively be formed with an opening that is sized to receive an object inserted by a user. Insertion of the object can manipulate a second electrical switch, which may control flow of electricity from a battery, for example.