Smart Control System for Automated Household Device Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing household device control systems require user attendance and in-depth knowledge to operate, as users need to manually select and input programs, which can be complex and inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

A smart control system comprising a controller, memory, display, and input device that groups devices based on criteria and control parameters, allowing automated control of household devices like windows, blinds, and lights without user intervention, using sensors and network connections to achieve desired effects such as comfort, energy conservation, and security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If pre-stored programs are used for controlling household devices, then automation is improved, but user complexity increases as users need to remember and select appropriate programs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of device controlVSAvoiduser operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting environmental conditions through sensors and executing appropriate control sequences without requiring user selection of programs. The controller autonomously determines which pre-stored program to execute based on sensor inputs, eliminating the need for users to remember or select programs manually.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor environmental conditions (such as light levels, temperature, or occupancy) and feed this information back to the controller. The controller then automatically selects and executes the appropriate pre-stored program based on the current sensor readings, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing conditions without user intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If user-specified programs are allowed, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases as users need in-depth knowledge of system design to input programs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogram customization capabilityVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains adaptability through pre-configured programs that are automatically selected based on sensor inputs, eliminating the need for users to manually configure or understand complex system design parameters. Users simply benefit from the adaptability without needing to engage with the complexity of program creation or modification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2467975B1Method and apparatus for control of household devices
Publication Date: 2015.12.02 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP2467975B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1C
  • EP2467975B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP2467975B1 patent drawingFigure 4A~7

AI summary

In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus comprising means for executing a smart function controlling at least one device to achieve an effect specified by a criterion for a desired effect of a group according to control parameters, wherein said group comprises at least one device, is disclosed.