Remote Control Light Switch Cover with Motorized Wiper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Homeowners face the challenge of remotely controlling lighting without the need for expensive Wi-Fi enabled light bulbs or switches, as existing solutions require replacement of entire light switch units, which many are unwilling or unable to perform.
Innovation Solution
A remote controlled light switch cover assembly that converts a standard rocker switch into a remotely controllable switch using a wiper mechanism driven by an electric motor, coupled with wireless receiver and processing circuitry, allowing for wireless operation and manual control without replacing the existing switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If Wi-Fi enabled light switches are used to enable remote control, then remote control capability is achieved, but device cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the remote control functionality into a separate cover assembly that attaches to the existing switch. The cover contains the wireless receiver, motor, and wiper mechanism, while the original switch remains unchanged. This segmentation allows remote control capability to be added without replacing or complicating the original switch device.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiper acts as an intermediary mechanical element that transfers the motor's rotational motion into linear motion to push the rocker switch. This intermediary mechanism enables the electric motor to indirectly actuate the switch without requiring direct integration with the switch's internal components.
2Extent of automation
If expensive Wi-Fi enabled equipment is purchased, then remote control functionality is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the wireless receiver for remote control, houses the motor and gear train for mechanical actuation, contains the wiper for switch activation, and maintains aesthetic appearance. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate components into a single cost-effective unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the existing switch to continue serving its primary function while the cover assembly provides additional remote control functionality. The original switch infrastructure is utilized without modification, and the cover assembly is a self-contained unit that can be independently manufactured and installed.
3Extent of automation
If the entire light switch is replaced, then remote control capability is achieved, but installation difficulty and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the remote control functionality into a removable cover assembly that attaches to the existing switch rather than replacing the entire switch. This segmentation allows for simple installation by attaching the cover to the front of the existing switch plate, avoiding complex electrical wiring work.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover assembly is pre-assembled with all remote control components (receiver, motor, gear train, wiper) before installation. This preliminary assembly allows the installer to simply mount the complete unit onto the existing switch without needing to perform complex assembly or wiring tasks on-site.
4Ease of operation
If manual operation is maintained, then simplicity is preserved, but remote control capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly is designed to support both manual and remote operation modes. The wiper can be manually pushed by the user through the cover opening, or it can be automatically actuated by the motor in response to wireless signals. This dual-mode operation maintains simplicity while adding automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts between manual and remote control modes based on user input. The motor is activated only when wireless commands are received, while manual operation remains available at any time. This dynamic behavior allows the system to flexibly switch between automated and manual control as needed.
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 of lighting using smartphones or other devices while allowing manual operation, providing a cost-effective and easy retrofit solution for existing rocker switches, thus eliminating the need for expensive new equipment.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor, coupled to the gear train, for driving the gear train in a first direction to move the wiper in a first wiper direction, and for driving the gear train in a second direction to move the wiper in a second wiper direction
Implementation Method 2
a gear train coupled to the wiper that causes the wiper to move across the surface of the standard rocker switch
Implementation Method 3
a wireless receiver for receiving wireless signals that cause the actuation of the standard rocker switch
Data Source
AI summary
A remote controlled light switch cover assembly is described for converting a standard rocker switch into a remote controlled switch. In one embodiment, a method is described, performed by the remote controlled light switch cover, comprising receiving a wireless signal to actuate the standard rocker switch, activating an electric motor that causes a wiper to move along a surface of the standard rocker switch, detecting when the wiper has actuated the standard rocker switch, causing the electric motor to rotate in a reverse direction from the first direction, which causes the wiper to move back towards a valley of the standard rocker switch, detecting when the wiper is positioned over the valley, and in response to detecting when the wiper is positioned over the valley, causing the electric motor to stop rotating, causing the wiper to remain positioned over the valley.