Wireless Lighting Controller Using RF Mediator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting systems lack a convenient and wireless method for controlling multiple lighting fixtures independently or collectively, requiring physical connections and cables for operation.

Innovation Solution

A portable wireless remote control device and lighting system controller system that uses wireless communication (RF or infrared) to transmit control signals to lighting modules, allowing for remote operation of lighting systems via a user interface with buttons and LEDs for status indication, enabling control of lighting systems without physical cables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If wireless control is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A wireless controller acts as an intermediary device between the user and the lighting system. The controller includes a microprocessor that receives user inputs through various interfaces (keypad, buttons, sensors) and translates them into control signals that are transmitted wirelessly to the lighting system, thereby simplifying user interaction while managing system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical cable connections and physical switches with wireless communication technology. The controller uses wireless transmission methods (such as radio frequency or infrared) to send control signals to lighting fixtures, eliminating the need for complex physical wiring between control devices and lighting elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple lighting fixtures are controlled independently, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is segmented into independent controllable units or zones. Each lighting fixture or group of fixtures can be controlled individually through the wireless controller, allowing selective control of different segments without affecting other parts of the system. This modular approach enables independent control while keeping each control module relatively simple

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The wireless controller is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple types of lighting fixtures and control scenarios. It can operate in various modes (individual control, group control, scene setting, dimming) and is adaptable to different lighting technologies, thereby providing high versatility without requiring separate control devices for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables convenient, wireless control of lighting systems, allowing for individual or simultaneous operation of multiple lighting fixtures, with status feedback, reducing installation complexity and enhancing user interaction.

Implementation Method 1

The portable wireless remote control device may communicate wirelessly (e.g., radio frequency, infrared frequency, etc.) with the lighting system controller

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation:

Data Source

PatentUS9271377B2Wireless controller for lighting system
Publication Date: 2016.02.23 ADJ PRODUCTS LLC
  • US9271377B2 patent drawing
  • US9271377B2 patent drawing
  • US9271377B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a system and method for controlling at least one lighting system by means of a portable wireless remote control device. The system comprises a portable wireless remote control device, a lighting system controller, and at least one lighting system coupled to the lighting system controller. Each lighting system comprises one or more lighting modules (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent bulbs, etc.). The portable wireless remote control device comprises a wireless transceiver, processor, memory, light control logic, user interface (UI), and an antenna. The lighting system controller-comprises a wireless transceiver, processor, memory, light control logic, and an antenna. Each lighting system coupled (e.g., wired) to the lighting system controller may be wirelessly controlled via the remote control device.