Wireless Outlet Switching Power via RF Transceiver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical outlets lack the capability for remote wireless control, limiting the ability to manage power distribution efficiently in AC power systems.
Innovation Solution
A 120 Volt AC outlet with a wireless receiver/transmitter that switches power ON and OFF, both locally and to daisychained outlets, using an AC/DC converter to power internal electronics and communicate control signals via RF transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electrical outlets are used without wireless control capabilities, then the structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the ability to remotely manage power distribution is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a wireless receiver/transmitter module with the traditional electrical outlet structure, integrating remote control functionality into the existing outlet design. This merging allows the outlet to receive wireless control signals while maintaining its basic power distribution function, resolving the contradiction between adding remote control capability and increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional power distribution and wireless-controlled power management. By making the outlet universal enough to handle both basic electrical connection and smart control operations, the patent enables remote power control without requiring completely separate control systems, thus improving ease of operation while managing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless control components are added to the outlet, then remote power management capability is improved, but the cost and complexity of the outlet increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless receiver/transmitter is integrated into the outlet housing as a unified component rather than as a separate external device. This merging approach allows the outlet to gain adaptability for remote power management while consolidating components to manage overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless receiver/transmitter acts as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between remote control systems and the electrical outlet. This intermediary enables power management flexibility by translating wireless control signals into electrical switching actions, adding versatility without requiring complex direct integration between control systems and power distribution.
3Area of stationary object
If outlets are daisychained for extended control range, then the coverage area is improved, but the potential points of failure and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables daisychaining by designing outlets with both input and output terminals that can be connected in series. This segmentation allows the control coverage area to be extended by connecting multiple outlets, with each outlet acting as an independent segment that can relay control signals to the next outlet in the chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet includes preliminary integrated components (wireless receiver, relay switch, and output terminals) that are pre-configured to enable daisychaining. This preliminary action ensures that when outlets are connected in series, the control signals can be properly transmitted through the chain without requiring additional configuration, thereby extending coverage area while maintaining system reliability through pre-established connection protocols.
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 remote control of power to AC outlets and connected devices, enhancing power management and usage monitoring through wireless communication, allowing for efficient and flexible power distribution.
Implementation Method 1
the line-in power is connectable to the disclosed outlet housing similar to any known power outlet. This provided power is used to drive an AC/DC converter to create a DC bus internal to the outlet housing
Implementation Method 2
a wireless transceiver incorporated within the outlet housing. In at least one instance, the wireless transceiver will receive a command from another wireless device to turn power ON or OFF to the local outlet and the downstream outlets
Data Source
AI summary
A line-in power is connectable to the disclosed outlet housing similar to any known power outlet. This provided power is used to drive an AC/DC converter to create a DC bus internal to the outlet housing. This DC bus powers the electronics, including, for example, a wireless transceiver incorporated within the outlet housing. In at least one instance, the wireless transceiver will receive a command from another wireless device to turn power ON or OFF to the local outlet and the downstream (e.g. daisychained, etc.) outlets. These outlets can be wired to the output terminations (push-in and/or other) on the back of the local outlet and/or outlet housing, or may be connected through any other suitable electrical connection.