Smart Switch Adapter PCB for Retrofit Home Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switching devices in building installation technology require complex and costly upgrades to integrate them into smart home systems, necessitating professional electrician assistance.
Innovation Solution
A switching device with an adapter circuit board containing a power supply unit, radio unit, and sensor is retrofitted to existing devices, allowing integration into a smart home network without removing them from the installation box, retaining original haptics and using existing manufacturing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical switching device is smartified by installing a function module in an installation box, then the switching device can be integrated into a smart home system, but the installation becomes complex and requires assistance from an electrician
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter unit is inserted into the installation opening of the existing switching device, nesting the smart functionality within the existing mechanical structure. This allows the switching device to be integrated into a smart home system without requiring complex external installations or electrician assistance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electronic components are integrated directly into the switching device, then smart functionality is achieved, but manufacturing costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switching device is segmented into two independent parts: the original mechanical switching device and the separate adapter unit containing the electronic components. This segmentation allows existing switching devices to be manufactured using conventional methods without incurring additional costs, while the adapter unit can be produced separately and inserted to provide smart functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter unit acts as an intermediary between the existing mechanical switching device and the smart home network. It contains the necessary electronic components (radio unit, sensor, power supply unit) and communicates with both the switching device and the smart home network, enabling smart functionality without modifying the original device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the switching device structure is modified to accommodate smart components, then smart integration is achieved, but the original haptics and installation characteristics change
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter unit is designed to be inserted into the existing installation opening of the switching device, nesting the smart components within the original installation space. This allows the switching device to participate in a smart home network while maintaining its original installation characteristics and haptics, as the mechanical structure remains unchanged.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A switching device S for building installation technology is presented, in particular a switch or a push-button, comprising a base part SK fixed to a support ring T, wherein the base part SK has a mains voltage supply unit, and further comprising an actuating element arranged on a holder for actuating the switching device and an adapter for holding and centering a design frame D surrounding the actuating element B, wherein the adapter AH is connected to the support ring T by means of holding feet. What is special here is that the adapter AH has an adapter circuit board L, wherein a power supply unit, a radio unit which makes the switching device a participant in a smart home network, and a sensor X for detecting the actuation of the actuating element B are arranged on the adapter circuit board L.