Voice-Controlled Light and Speaker Fitting With Integrated Power Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing integrated light and sound systems face challenges with power management, heat dissipation, and installation complexity, limiting their power output and flexibility in control, especially when integrated into standard light fittings, and often require additional wiring and user proximity to control devices.
Innovation Solution
A combined light and sound system that includes a microphone for voice command control, allowing users to manage lighting and audio independently without needing a smartphone or remote, with local voice recognition and processing to reduce latency and maintain privacy, and a heat management system enabling higher power operation without the need for additional wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mains power is reduced with a transformer or power convertor placed in a junction box, then higher voltage power can be supplied to lighting elements, but additional wiring is required which increases installation cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power convertor and control electronics directly into the light fitting housing, eliminating the need for separate junction boxes and additional wiring. The mains power is converted to lower voltage within the light fitting itself, integrating multiple functions (power conversion, LED control, speaker amplification) into a single unit that can be installed using existing lighting infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The light fitting acts as an intermediary device that receives mains power and transforms it into usable low-voltage power for both LED lighting and audio amplification. This intermediary function is built into the light fitting itself rather than requiring separate power conversion infrastructure, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining high power output capability.
2Ease of operation
If control panels are installed to replace existing light switches, then light settings can be controlled, but additional wiring is required which increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control panels and wiring with wireless communication technology. The light fitting includes a wireless transceiver that communicates with mobile devices, tablets, or computers via Wi-Fi or other wireless protocols, eliminating the need for additional control wiring while providing flexible control options including remote access, scheduling, and integration with smart home systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to be universally compatible with multiple types of devices (smartphones, tablets, computers) and operating systems, allowing any user with a standard wireless device to control the lighting and audio functions. This universal approach eliminates the need for proprietary control panels or additional wiring infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated infrared or Bluetooth remote controls are provided, then wireless control can be achieved, but a direct data connection is required with each light which increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control architecture so that each light fitting operates as an independent node with its own wireless transceiver and control logic. This allows each light to be controlled individually or in groups without requiring direct point-to-point connections, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining wireless control capability. The modular design enables lights to communicate with a central controller or directly with user devices.
4Ease of operation
If all individual lights are connected to a wireless network with a smartphone application, then control can be achieved, but user access to the router is required which restricts control to limited users
Solution Approach 1:
The light fitting includes built-in voice recognition capabilities with microphones and processing electronics that allow users to control the system through voice commands alone, without requiring a smartphone, app installation, or router access. The device can independently process and respond to voice instructions, making the system accessible to anyone regardless of their familiarity with technology or their ability to access network infrastructure.
5Adaptability or versatility
If combined light and loudspeaker devices are distributed throughout a building, then integrated lighting and audio can be provided, but independent control of each device becomes challenging and may require significant rewiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control where the distributed light and speaker devices can operate independently or in coordinated groups based on real-time conditions. Each device has independent control capabilities and can be dynamically assigned to different zones, rooms, or functional groups. The system can adapt its topology and control relationships on-the-fly without requiring physical rewiring, allowing flexible configuration changes as needs evolve.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of controlling a lighting and sound system comprising a controller and a plurality of lighting and sound devices (10) is provided. Each lighting and sound device (10) includes a light, a loudspeaker and a microphone (380). The method comprises receiving an audio instruction from a first user of the system at the microphone of a first device of the plurality of devices. The method further comprises processing the received audio instruction. The method further comprises transmitting the instruction from the first device to the controller. The method further comprises executing an action based upon the processed audio instruction.