Self-Powered Remote Control Using Angular Position Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-powered wireless remote controls, such as those using Peltier and piezoelectric energy converters, face inefficiencies in energy generation and management, leading to bulky, expensive, and complex designs that fail to maintain preselected light levels or modes, requiring continuous user input to switch or adjust settings.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered wireless remote control incorporating an angular position sensor connected to an energy converter, allowing for efficient energy production and independent adjustment or selection functions without additional complex mechanisms, using a small-sized MEMS accelerometer to detect angular positions and transmit control signals via an RF transmitter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If mechanical-electrical generator with rotary knob is used to generate energy and detect direction/magnitude, then energy for electronic circuit operation is supplied, but device becomes bulky, expensive, and prone to wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control functions into two independent parts: a simple push-button for energy generation and an angular position sensor for direction/magnitude detection. This segmentation eliminates the need for a complex mechanical-electrical generator while maintaining both energy supply and control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical-electrical generator system with an electronic solution: a piezoelectric or Peltier element for energy generation and an angular position sensor for control signal generation. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and reduces device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pressure buttons each with own cog are used, then multiple functions are achieved, but device becomes very bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single push-button universal by combining it with an angular position sensor. The same button serves both for energy generation and for controlling multiple functions (ON-OFF, dimmer levels, device selection) depending on its angular position, eliminating the need for multiple separate buttons.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the energy generation function and the control function into a single integrated component: the push-button with angular position sensor. This combination allows one component to perform multiple functions that previously required separate mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If generator coil pulses are used to determine magnitude of variation, then dimmer function is achieved, but cog mechanism is necessary causing bulk and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cog mechanism with an electronic angular position sensor. The sensor directly provides digital or analog signals corresponding to the button's angular position, eliminating the need for mechanical pulse generation and counting while achieving the same dimmer control function.
4Adaptability or versatility
If rotary knob mechanism is used for both energy generation and control, then single mechanism achieves dual function, but ON-OFF switch function cannot be independent of brightness level
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control logic by using the angular position sensor to provide distinct signals for different functions. A first angular position range (including vertical position) triggers ON-OFF switching, while other angular positions trigger dimmer level adjustments, allowing independent control of switching and brightness functions.
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 enables compact, cost-effective operation with minimal electrical energy consumption, allowing for precise adjustments and selections without the need for continuous user input, maintaining preselected settings and optimizing energy use across various devices.
Implementation Method 1
use will preferably be made of energy converters of the Peltier type, using in particular the heat of the user's body, or of the piezoelectric type by exploiting pressure exerted on the device to momentarily generate electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
The sensor is preferably an accelerometer used for static measurements relating to terrestrial acceleration (gravity)
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7B
AI summary
The device (2) has an angular position sensor (10) for determining an angular position of the device. An electromagnetic signal emitting circuit (6) is connected to an electronic control unit (4). An energy converter (8) is arranged for producing electric energy that is supplied to the control unit. The control unit provides a control and/or selection signal corresponding to the angular position detected by the sensor. The sensor is connected to the control unit and the converter.