Wireless Lighting Control Panel with Dynamic Button Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security and automation systems often lack convenient and reliable techniques for controlling lighting devices, requiring extensive power wiring or electrical skills for installation.
Innovation Solution
A panel for controlling lighting devices in a home automation system, equipped with a processor, memory, power component, and programmable buttons, allowing for centralized control of light emitting sources without extensive installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional lighting control systems are used, then lighting control functionality is provided, but extensive power wiring and electrical skills are required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical electrical wiring connections with a wireless power transfer system. The panel uses a wireless power source (battery or rechargeable cell) that communicates with lighting devices via radio frequency signals, eliminating the need for extensive power wiring and electrical installation skills while maintaining full lighting control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless power source as an intermediary between the panel and lighting devices. This intermediary component transfers power and control signals without physical electrical connections, serving as a bridge that eliminates the complexity of wiring while enabling the panel to control multiple lighting devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control functions are added to the panel, then control versatility is improved, but button activation duration discrimination becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic button activation durations where the same physical button can trigger different control functions based on how long the user presses it. The system dynamically adjusts the activation duration threshold to distinguish between single presses, long presses, and rapid sequences, enabling one button to control multiple lighting functions including on/off, dimming, and scene activation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic button presses as a control mechanism where the timing and frequency of presses determine the function activated. Rapid sequential presses can trigger different functions compared to sustained presses, allowing the panel to interpret user intent based on the temporal pattern of interactions rather than requiring separate physical buttons for each function
3Ease of operation
If wireless power source is used, then installation simplicity is improved, but power supply reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service power system where the wireless power source automatically recharges when the panel is mounted on a surface with adequate power contact. The system monitors its own power levels and recharges without user intervention, ensuring continuous operation while maintaining installation simplicity through the self-contained battery design
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for lighting control are described. An apparatus may include a processor, memory, a power component, a set of control buttons, and one or more radio components for lighting control. The apparatus may be a light control device associated with a home or automation system. The light control device may be a light switch cover with a cover plate that encapsulate a light switch. The light switch cover may have a radio, a battery, and control circuitry for lighting control.