Multi-Zone Dimming Control via Wireless Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-zone, multi-scene lighting systems require extensive wiring and professional installation, making them costly and complex to implement, especially in existing constructions, and are not easily adaptable to control individual lighting devices within a room.
Innovation Solution
A multi-zone, multi-scene dimming system that eliminates the need for new wiring by integrating a master dimming control system into a single lighting device, such as a chandelier or ceiling light, allowing for remote control of various lighting effects like general area, task, grazing, and accent lighting through a wall-mounted or handheld remote with programmable scenes and fade rates, using power line or wireless technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-zone multi-scene lighting system is installed using traditional wiring methods, then the lighting control functionality is achieved, but the installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from the wiring infrastructure by using wireless communication between remote controls and lighting fixtures. This eliminates the need for complex multi-gang electrical boxes and extensive wiring while maintaining multi-zone multi-scene control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between the user and the lighting system. Remote controls transmit signals wirelessly to lighting fixtures, eliminating the need for direct electrical wiring connections for control purposes while preserving full lighting control functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multi-zone lighting systems are installed in existing constructions, then the desired lighting effects are achieved, but the installation requires cutting drywall and extensive rewiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the requirement for physical wiring modifications by using wireless communication technology. Lighting fixtures can be installed in existing constructions without cutting drywall or running new wires, as control signals are transmitted wirelessly through the air.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with an electromagnetic wireless communication system. Instead of physically connecting control circuits through wires and electrical boxes, the system uses radio frequency or other wireless signals to transmit control commands.
3Manufacturing precision
If professional lighting specialists are hired to design and install multi-zone systems, then the lighting design quality is improved, but the installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables lighting system installation and configuration to be performed by consumers without requiring professional lighting specialists. The wireless system comes pre-programmed with scene capabilities, allowing users to simply install fixtures and remotely program their own lighting zones and scenes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pre-programmed scene capabilities directly into the lighting fixtures during manufacturing. Multiple lighting zones and scene configurations are prepared in advance, allowing consumers to select and customize scenes without requiring professional design services.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing single-pole switches are replaced with wall-mounted remotes, then multi-scene control is enabled, but the switch box requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the scene selection functionality from the electrical switch box by using wireless remote controls. The remote controls can be mounted on walls without requiring multi-gang electrical boxes, as they communicate wirelessly with the lighting fixtures rather than through electrical wiring.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system that includes a lighting device and a dimming controller. The lighting device has a support structure that supports multiple lighting zones. Each lighting zone including one or more lighting sources. The dimming controller is in communication with multiple dimmers supported by the lighting device. Each of the lighting sources is coupled to a corresponding dimmer from the multiple dimmers. The dimming controller is configured to communicate a controlled setting for one or more of the lighting zones to the multiple dimmers.