Optically Switchable Device Control Using Voice and Gestures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optically switchable devices lack efficient and user-friendly control methods, particularly for users with disabilities, and there is a need for intelligent control systems to optimize power consumption and lighting conditions.

Innovation Solution

Implementing voice and gesture control systems for optically switchable devices, including voice recognition, gesture recognition, and authentication modules, to allow users to change optical states and control multiple devices on a network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional control methods are used for optically switchable devices, then the control system is simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates and accessibility for users with disabilities is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical control interfaces (switches, knobs, physical buttons) with voice recognition and gesture recognition systems. Users can control optically switchable devices through spoken commands or hand gestures, eliminating the need for physical interaction with control mechanisms. This substitution dramatically improves ease of operation and accessibility while managing system complexity through software-based solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces voice recognition software and gesture recognition software as intermediary layers between the user and the optically switchable device. These intermediaries translate natural human interactions (speech, gestures) into control signals that the device can understand and execute, providing a more intuitive and accessible control method without directly modifying the device's core mechanical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If manual control methods are used, then the control system is simple, but productivity and energy efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements control systems that incorporate feedback mechanisms, where the system monitors user commands, device state, and environmental conditions to optimize performance. The voice and gesture recognition systems provide real-time feedback to users about command recognition and device response, enabling more efficient control and reducing the time needed to achieve desired optical states, thereby improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables optically switchable devices to respond autonomously to voice commands and gestures without requiring manual intervention or complex mechanical actuation. The devices can independently adjust their optical properties based on user intent expressed through natural language or gestures, improving operational efficiency and reducing the need for intermediary mechanical control components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If voice and gesture control systems are implemented, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements control systems that can process multiple types of user inputs (voice commands, gestures) through a unified software architecture. The voice recognition and gesture recognition modules share common processing pathways and control logic, allowing the system to handle diverse input methods without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each control type. This multi-functionality approach improves ease of operation while managing complexity through code reuse and integrated processing.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20260038499A1Controlling optically-switchable devices
Publication Date: 2026.02.05 VIEW OPERATING CORP
  • US20260038499A1 patent drawing
  • US20260038499A1 patent drawing
  • US20260038499A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure relates generally to optically switchable devices, and more particularly, to methods for controlling optically switchable devices. In various embodiments, one or more optically switchable devices may be controlled via voice control and/or gesture control.