Range-Adjustable Wallbox Controller for Light Fixtures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current light fixture control systems have rudimentary dimming and correlated color temperature (CCT) adjustment capabilities, limiting user control over electrical devices.

Innovation Solution

A range-adjustable wallbox controller with a selector circuit and range limit setting interfaces allows users to adjust parameters such as intensity and CCT within specific ranges, using components like potentiometers and transistors to regulate voltage and control light output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If rudimentary dimming control is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and user flexibility are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic range adjustment by allowing users to programmatically set minimum and maximum dimming levels through a controller. This enables the dimming range to be dynamically adapted to different applications and environments, transforming a static control system into a flexible, programmable one that can accommodate various lighting scenarios without requiring multiple fixed-control devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a separate ON/OFF switch is added, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into a single device by combining the dimming control with programmable on/off functionality. The controller can be programmed to automatically turn lighting loads on and off at predetermined times, eliminating the need for a separate wall switch while maintaining ease of operation. This multi-functional approach reduces overall system complexity by consolidating controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed dimming ranges are used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to different environments is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables parameter changes by allowing users to programmatically define custom dimming ranges (minimum and maximum levels) according to specific application requirements. This transforms the fixed manufacturing parameters into adjustable operational parameters, enabling the same device to adapt to different environments and lighting scenarios without requiring precision manufacturing variations for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 advanced control over light fixtures and other electrical devices, providing flexible and user-defined intensity and CCT settings without the need for a separate ON/OFF switch, enhancing user experience and device performance.

Implementation Method 1

using components like potentiometers and transistors to regulate voltage and control light output

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage regulation: Electrical Resistance

Implementation Method 2

A wallbox controller can include a selector circuit that controls a value of the parameter within a range of values

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical signal control: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS10524327B2Range-adjustable wallbox controllers for electrical devices
Publication Date: 2019.12.31 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • US10524327B2 patent drawing
  • US10524327B2 patent drawing
  • US10524327B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wallbox controller for controlling a parameter of an electrical device can include a selector circuit that controls a value of the parameter within a range of values. The wallbox controller can also include a first range limit setting interface coupled to the selector circuit, where the first range limit setting interface sets a first limit for the range of values.