Wireless Lighting Control Module for Smart Bulb Operability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home lighting control systems are often complex and require expert installation, with smart light bulbs being limited by the associated light switch and fixture, leading to inefficiencies and inoperability when the switch is turned off.
Innovation Solution
A lighting control system with a detector circuit and controller that adjusts electrical energy transmission based on time of day and changes in wireless signal strength, using a processor to automate lighting adjustments and prevent reduction in energy when motion is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a light switch is associated with a smart light bulb to control lighting, then the lighting can be switched on and off, but the smart light bulb becomes inoperable when the switch is turned off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control function from the traditional light switch by introducing a separate control module that communicates wirelessly with the smart light bulb. This allows the light switch to remain simple while the control module handles the intelligence, ensuring the bulb remains operable even when the switch is off.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control module as an intermediary between the light switch and the smart light bulb. This intermediary communicates wirelessly with the bulb, allowing the bulb to receive control signals independent of the physical switch state, thus maintaining operability while reducing system complexity.
2Extent of automation
If automated lighting control systems include large central hubs, then lighting can be controlled automatically, but expert or skilled technicians are required for installation and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized hub functionality into distributed control modules that can be independently installed and operated. Each control module handles local automation tasks, eliminating the need for complex centralized hubs while maintaining automated control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed to be self-configuring and easy to install without requiring expert technicians. The system automatically detects and configures devices, enabling ordinary users to install and operate the automated lighting system independently.
3Adaptability or versatility
If lighting control systems use multiple light switches mapped to respective fixtures, then lighting fixtures can be controlled, but the switches become confusing and unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves multiple functions: it communicates with the smart light bulb, detects motion, monitors wireless signals, and controls lighting based on various conditions. This single multi-functional device replaces multiple specialized switches, simplifying the user interface while maintaining full control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control functions for multiple lighting fixtures into a single control module that can manage various fixtures through wireless communication. This consolidation eliminates the need for multiple physical switches mapped to different fixtures, reducing visual clutter and operational confusion.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an intelligent lighting control system for automated lighting adjustments. The system includes a lighting control module configured to cause a transmission of a quantity of electrical energy to a lighting circuit and a detector circuit positioned in the lighting control module and configured to detect a change in a strength of detected signal, such as wireless signal. The system includes a controller coupled to the detector circuit and the lighting control module. The controller includes a processor configured to determine a time of day and to cause the lighting control module to change the quantity of electrical energy transmitted to the lighting circuit in response to the time of day exceeding a predetermined time threshold and the change in the strength of the wireless signal falling below a predetermined value. The controller can cause the lighting control module to reduce the quantity of electrical energy.