Rotary Knob Multifunction Switch with Incremental Encoder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multifunction operating devices for building system technology are not optimized in terms of functionality and integration with standard flush-mounted installations, lacking a seamless user interface for controlling various functions like lighting, blinds, and heating.
Innovation Solution
A flush-mounted multifunction operating device with a central rotary knob, incremental encoder, microcontroller, and LED light display, connected to a building system bus, allowing for precise selection and activation of function symbols via a rotary knob and pushbutton, with programmable function symbols and a harmonious integration with existing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control elements are integrated into a single device, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control elements (rotary knob for function selection, pushbutton for activation, LED display for feedback) into a single integrated operating device that controls multiple building functions through one unified interface, rather than requiring separate controls for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The operating device is designed as a universal controller that can handle multiple building functions (lighting, blinds, heating, etc.) through a single device with programmable function symbols, making one device perform the work of multiple specialized controls
2Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of function symbols are integrated into the central disk, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The function symbols are arranged in a circular pattern around the rotary knob, dividing the control interface into distinct selectable positions. Each position corresponds to a specific function, allowing users to systematically navigate through multiple functions by rotating the knob to different angular positions rather than searching through a cluttered interface
3Loss of information
If LED light display is added to indicate selected function, then loss of information is reduced, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The LED display provides visual feedback by illuminating specific segments or patterns corresponding to the selected function symbol position. Rather than illuminating the entire display continuously, only the relevant local area around the selected function is activated, providing clear visual information while minimizing energy consumption
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 device provides a simplified and optimized user interface for controlling multiple building functions, ensuring smooth operation and clear visual feedback through LED lighting, while being seamlessly integrated with standard flush-mounted installations, supporting up to twenty different functions.
Implementation Method 1
the rotary knob being connected to an incremental encoder
Implementation Method 2
a microcontroller is provided, which receives incremental encoder signals from the incremental encoder and emits a corresponding function symbol signal to an LED control unit of an LED light display
Data Source
Figure 1~4
AI summary
A multifunctional control device (1) is proposed in the form of a flush-mounted installation device, which can be installed in a standard flush-mounted device box and includes a central plate (2), device base (3), and cover frame (4). It features: ● a rotary knob (6) as the primary control element, which is connected to an incremental encoder (7) and mounted in the central plate (2) via a roller bearing (8); ● a plurality of function symbols (11.1, 11.2, 11.3...) integrated into the central plate (2) along the circumference of the rotary knob and selectable by rotating the rotary knob (6), each function symbol being assigned to a device to be controlled; ● a microcontroller (14) which receives incremental encoder signals (IS) from the incremental encoder (7) and sends a corresponding function symbol signal (FS.1, FS.2, FS.3...) to an LED control unit. (15.1, 15.2, 15.3...) of an LED indicator light (12.1, 12.2, 12.3...) outputs, ● with a push button (9) as a second control element which actuates a microswitch (10), ● with a bus coupler (16) which is connected to a bus (18) of the building systems technology to which the controllable devices are connected, ● wherein the microcontroller (14) receives activation signals (AS) from the microswitch (10) and accordingly outputs control signals (AN) to the bus coupler (16) to be sent to the selected device.