Smart Switch Retrofitting Existing Wiring Without Central Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home automation systems require a central controller for network management, which is costly and labor-intensive to install, especially in retrofitting existing homes, and often necessitates multiple controllers for different electrical networks, making retrofitting and integration with existing electrical installations cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that replaces existing switches or dimmers with smart devices equipped with a base for in-wall connection, a communication part for wireless communication, and a microcontroller for data processing and control, allowing for seamless integration and control via mobile devices without the need for a central controller or bus, enabling wireless communication between devices and facilitating gradual retrofitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a central controller is used to build a network for connecting electrical devices, then network management and control functionality are achieved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional centralized control architecture into distributed smart devices, each capable of independent operation and communication. Each electrical device (switch, dimmer, etc.) becomes a standalone intelligent unit with its own microcontroller and communication interface, eliminating the need for a single central controller and reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Smart devices automatically discover and register themselves on the electrical bus without requiring manual configuration or a central controller for network setup. The devices self-configure by detecting their position in the circuit and establishing communication protocols autonomously, significantly simplifying the installation process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a central controller with bus connection is installed, then comprehensive control of electrical devices is achieved, but retrofitting existing homes becomes labor-intensive requiring drilling, channelling, and plastering
Solution Approach 1:
The smart devices are designed to work with existing electrical wiring infrastructure without requiring dedicated communication buses or additional cabling. The same electrical wires that carry power to the devices also serve as the communication medium, allowing the system to function universally across different installation scenarios including retrofits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the existing electrical wiring as an intermediary medium for both power delivery and data communication. By encoding communication signals on the power lines, the system eliminates the need for separate communication infrastructure, enabling easy retrofitting of existing homes without drilling or channelling.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple central controllers are used for different electrical networks (light control, heating control), then specialized control functions are achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each smart electrical device is designed with multi-functional capabilities, able to perform switching, dimming, and various control functions depending on its type and configuration. A single smart switch can replace multiple specialized controllers by providing both switching and dimming functions, as well as integration with home automation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions (switching, dimming, temperature control, etc.) into a single integrated smart device platform. Different device types share the same underlying architecture and communication protocol, allowing multiple specialized control functions to be achieved through a unified system rather than separate controllers.
4Extent of automation
If a central controller is installed in a building, then network intelligence and automation capability are achieved, but additional installation constraints and costs are created
Solution Approach 1:
The smart devices automatically perform network discovery, registration, and configuration without requiring a pre-installed central controller or manual setup. Each device independently establishes its identity and communication parameters by detecting its position in the electrical circuit, eliminating the need for a separate controller installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the intelligence and control functionality from the central controller and distributes it to individual electrical devices. Each smart device contains its own microcontroller and automation capabilities, removing the requirement for a centralized intelligence hub and its associated installation constraints.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for replacing an existing switch or dimmer (710', 810') in an existing circuit with a smart device, the existing circuit comprising said existing switch or dimmer (710', 810') and an other switch (710; 800, 810) connected via existing wiring(720; 820), the method comprising the following steps: removing the existing switch or dimmer (710', 810') from a wall box where cables to a lamp are located; placing the smart device in said wall box; replacing the other existing switch with a new switch (730; 750; 830, 830'; 850, 850') which is capable of providing the smart device with a signal when said new switch is being operated by a user; and changing the wiring diagram using the existing wiring ((a), (b), (c); (a), (b), (c), (e), (f)).