Smart Bulb Controller Occupancy Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing home lighting control systems are often complex and require expert installation, with smart light bulbs being limited by the light switch and fixture they are associated with, and lack intuitive automation for adjusting lighting based on occupancy and time.

Innovation Solution

A lighting control system that includes light control modules capable of detecting occupancy using sensors like infrared, Bluetooth, and optical sensors, allowing for automated adjustment of lighting circuits based on time of day and occupancy status, enabling seamless integration with smart devices for remote control and configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If smart light bulbs are used with traditional light switches, then smart lighting control is achieved, but the smart light bulb becomes inoperable when the light switch is turned off

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesmart lighting controlVSAvoidlight bulb operability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the control function from the traditional light switch and relocates it to the smart light bulb itself. The smart bulb contains an integrated controller that can independently manage its operation, receiving control signals directly from the controller rather than being controlled by the external light switch. This allows the bulb to remain operable even when the light switch is in the off position, as the bulb's own controller maintains the ability to receive and execute control commands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Extent of automation

If centralized lighting control systems are implemented, then automated lighting control is achieved, but complex installation and expert technician requirements result

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomated lighting controlVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the lighting control system into distributed, independent units where each smart light bulb contains its own controller and communicates wirelessly with a central controller. This eliminates the need for complex wired installations and centralized control hardware, allowing individual bulbs to be installed and configured independently. The system achieves automated lighting control through wireless communication between simple, modular components rather than through complex centralized infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If multiple light switches are installed for different fixtures, then lighting control for multiple fixtures is achieved, but confusing mapping and unsightly appearance result

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting controlVSAvoidswitch configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the light switch universal by enabling it to control any smart light bulb in the system through wireless communication, rather than being hardwired to a specific fixture. The controller receives control signals from the light switch and automatically determines which bulb to control based on proximity detection or user selection. This single universal switch replaces multiple fixture-specific switches, eliminating confusing mapping and reducing the number of wall-mounted devices needed.

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

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 system provides intuitive, automated lighting control that adjusts based on occupancy and time, enhancing user convenience and reducing energy consumption by optimizing lighting usage without requiring complex installations or expert operation.

Implementation Method 1

detecting occupancy using sensors like infrared, Bluetooth, and optical sensors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInfrared radiation detection: Infrared Radiation

Data Source

PatentEP3510840B1Intelligent lighting control system automated adjustment apparatuses, systems, and methods
Publication Date: 2022.11.02 SAVANT SYSTEMS INC
  • EP3510840B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP3510840B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP3510840B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an intelligent lighting control system. A first light control module of a plurality of light control modules determines a time of day. Each light control module in the plurality of light control modules configured to cause a transmission of a quantity of electrical energy to a lighting circuit of a light fixture electrically connected to the respective lighting control module. Occupancy at the first light control module is detected after a specific time of day. The flow of electricity from one or more light control modules in the plurality of light control modules is changed to change the flow of electricity to the respective lighting circuits connected to the one or more light control modules to turn off the respective light fixture based on the occupancy detection the time of day.