Wall-Box Load Control Interface for Tool-Free Settings Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Residential electrical load controls often require disassembly to access and program settings, lacking user-friendly interfaces for configuration, whereas commercial controls with wireless communication capabilities are not typically available in residential settings.
Innovation Solution
A wall-box mounted load control with a control assembly and interface that allows user-programming without disassembly, using button switches and indicator devices to navigate a settings data structure, enabling configuration of settings modes without removing the cover or using tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If load control settings are made programmable, then functionality and adaptability are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring disassembly and tool access
Solution Approach 1:
The load control device allows users to program and configure settings directly through the device itself using an integrated interface with buttons and display, eliminating the need for disassembly or external tools. The device serves its own configuration needs through built-in controls that enable users to access and modify parameters such as occupancy sensitivity, timing, and operational modes without requiring technical expertise or physical access to internal components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication capability is added to load control, then adaptability and remote control are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The load control device incorporates multiple functions within a single integrated unit, including occupancy sensing, lighting control, and wireless communication capabilities. The device can operate in various modes (occupancy-based control, manual control, remote control via wireless communication) and serves multiple purposes such as monitoring occupancy, controlling lighting, and providing user feedback through display and indicators, thereby reducing the need for separate devices while enhancing adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If load control integrates multiple sensors and controls, then functionality is improved, but ease of manufacture and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates occupancy sensors, lighting controls, display elements, and wireless communication components into a single unified load control device. By combining these previously separate functions into one integrated unit, the device simplifies installation and manufacturing processes, as it requires only a single device installation rather than coordinating multiple separate components, while still providing comprehensive functionality for occupancy-based lighting control and user interaction.
Data Source
AI summary
A load control is provided which includes a wall-box mounted housing, an electrical device to control electrical power to a load, and a control assembly to control the electrical device. The control assembly includes a user-programmable control, with a saved settings data structure having multiple columns and rows of control settings, and a control interface with first and second button switches to selectively advance through the columns and rows of the settings data structure in a settings mode of the control. The button switches are selectable by a user without disassembly of the load control, and the control interface also includes one or more indicator devices to signal a column of the settings data structure to which the control has been advanced in the settings mode of the control, and to signal a row of the settings data structure to which the control has been advanced.