Toggle-Mounted Wireless Remote for No-Rewiring Light Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems require electrical rewiring and replacement of mechanical switches to install advanced load control devices, making it difficult for consumers to retrofit their systems without professional assistance.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device that can be mounted over an existing mechanical toggle switch, allowing for energy savings and advanced control features without the need for electrical rewiring or replacement of existing switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard mechanical toggle switches are replaced by advanced load control devices, then energy savings and advanced control features are achieved, but electrical rewiring and professional installation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control device as an intermediary component that interfaces with the existing mechanical toggle switch through its actuator. This mediator enables advanced load control features without requiring replacement of the original switch, thus avoiding complex electrical rewiring while still providing energy savings and control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device is designed to work with standard mechanical toggle switches while providing multiple control functions including dimming, fading, and programmable operations. This multi-functional approach allows the system to deliver advanced control features through a universal interface that兼容 existing switch infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical toggle switches are replaced with load control devices, then power delivery control is improved, but electrical wiring must be accessed and modified
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device serves as a mediator between the user and the electrical load, intercepting and modifying the control signal from the mechanical toggle switch. It couples to the switch actuator and provides intelligent power control capabilities without requiring access to or modification of the electrical wiring infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical toggle switch operation with an electronically enhanced control system. The remote control device incorporates electronic circuits for signal processing, memory storage for programming, and microprocessors for intelligent control algorithms, substituting mechanical functionality with electronic systems while maintaining compatibility with the mechanical actuator interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing mechanical switches are removed and replaced, then advanced control features are achieved, but professional electrical contractor assistance is required
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device acts as an intermediary that bridges existing mechanical switch infrastructure with modern control capabilities. By coupling to the mechanical actuator rather than replacing the entire switch assembly, it enables consumers to install advanced control features themselves without requiring professional electrical contractor assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed for self-service installation by consumers. It includes user-friendly programming capabilities, intuitive controls, and a design that interfaces with existing switches without requiring electrical wiring knowledge or skills. The system enables end-users to independently configure and install advanced control features in their homes.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control device may be configured to be mounted over the toggle actuator of a light switch and to control a load control device via wireless communication. The remote control device may include a base portion and a rotating portion supported by the base portion so as to be rotatable about the base portion. The remote control device may include a control circuit and a wireless communication circuit. The control circuit may be operably coupled to the rotating portion and to the wireless communication circuit. The control circuit may be configured to translate a force applied to the rotating portion of the remote control device into a control signal and to cause the communication circuit to transmit the control signal to the load control device.