Tactile Light Switch Control for Always-On Smart Bulbs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home lighting control systems are often complex, expensive, and require expert installation, with smart light bulbs becoming inoperable when associated light switches are turned off, and are limited by the lighting fixture and switch configuration.
Innovation Solution
A light control device featuring a light switch module with a tactile display and wireless communication capabilities, allowing for customizable lighting settings and remote operation through a mobile device, enabling seamless integration with various fixtures and switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If smart light bulbs are used with traditional light switches, then lighting control is simplified, but the smart light bulb becomes inoperable when the light switch is turned off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light control device as an intermediary component between the light switch and the smart light bulb. This device includes a relay that can bypass the traditional light switch connection, allowing the smart light bulb to remain powered and controllable even when the main light switch is turned off. The intermediary device receives control signals from the light switch but maintains an independent power path to the bulb, resolving the contradiction between simplified control and continuous operability.
2Extent of automation
If automated home lighting control systems with central hubs are installed, then lighting automation is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the central hub functionality from the system and relocates it to a cloud-based server. The light control device includes a communication module that connects directly to cloud services, eliminating the need for a physical central hub in the home. This reduces on-premises device complexity while maintaining automation capabilities through wireless communication and cloud processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The light control device is designed to work with multiple types of lighting fixtures and control methods simultaneously. It can interface with traditional light switches, provide remote control via mobile devices, enable voice control through assistants, and support cloud-based automation. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate systems into a single universal device, reducing overall complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light switches are installed to control different fixtures, then lighting control coverage is improved, but the interface becomes confusing and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The light control device incorporates visual feedback indicators that show the current state of connected lighting fixtures. The display shows which fixtures are on or off, their brightness levels, and which control mode is active. This feedback mechanism helps users understand the system state and avoids confusion about which switch controls which fixture, maintaining ease of operation while supporting multiple fixtures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple control functions into a single light control device interface. Instead of having separate switches for different fixtures, the device provides a unified interface that can control multiple fixtures through a single location. The touchscreen or button interface allows users to select and control different fixtures from one consolidated control point, reducing the number of physical switches needed while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides light switch modules and methods of implementing a light switch module for a lighting control system. The light switch modules include a light switch actuator including an actuation surface. The light switch actuator is movable to connect an electrical flow path and to activate a tactile display housed in the light switch actuator. One or more tactile motions are applied on the actuation surface of the light switch actuator for selecting a lighting setting from among a plurality of lighting settings using the tactile display.