Wireless Trailer Light Switch for Off-Grid Remote Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote light switches that require internet connectivity are ineffective in remote areas where internet access is unavailable, making it difficult for users to turn on lights at their campsite or locate their recreational vehicle in the dark.
Innovation Solution
A remote light switch system with a power harness, enclosure, connector, and wireless module that allows users to remotely activate trailer lights using infrared, radio frequency, or Wi-Fi signals, without internet connection, and includes a controller and antenna for selective light operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If internet connectivity is required for remote light control, then users can control lights from anywhere in the world, but the system becomes unusable in remote areas without internet access
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control functionality into two independent segments: Wi-Fi enabled remote control capability and Bluetooth low energy local control capability. This segmentation allows the system to function in both internet-connected and remote environments without requiring one mode to depend on the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The light switch system incorporates multiple communication protocols (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) to provide universal control capability across different environments. The dual-protocol approach enables the system to adapt to various usage scenarios whether internet access is available or not, making the system universally applicable.
2Ease of operation
If users must physically approach the light switch to turn on lights, then the system remains simple, but users cannot locate their camp in the dark and must fumble around
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical approach of physically locating and operating a light switch with wireless control technology. Users can activate lights from a distance using a smartphone or remote control, eliminating the need to physically approach the switch in the dark and significantly reducing the time and effort required to illuminate the camp area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to turn on lights before they need to approach the camp area. By enabling remote light activation, users can prepare the lighting environment in advance, making their subsequent movement to the camp safe and convenient rather than having to fumble in the dark.
3Illumination intensity
If headlamps or vehicle lights are used to locate camp, then users can see in the dark, but the lighting is limited and does not provide adequate illumination for the entire camp area
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the trailer's existing lighting infrastructure to serve the dual purpose of safety lighting and campsite illumination. By allowing remote activation of the trailer lights, the system eliminates the need for separate lighting devices like headlamps or external spotlights, making the trailer lights self-sufficient for both navigation and camping needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines the navigation function and campsite lighting function into a single lighting solution. The trailer lights serve both to guide users to the camp location and to illuminate the entire camp area once arrived, consolidating multiple lighting needs into one system rather than requiring separate headlamps, vehicle lights, and camp lights.
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 users to turn on trailer lights and locate their campsite without internet, providing additional lighting and enhancing safety in remote areas.
Implementation Method 1
The wireless module can be an infrared signal, radio frequency signal, or Wi-Fi signal
Implementation Method 2
The wireless module can be an infrared signal, radio frequency signal, or Wi-Fi signal
Implementation Method 3
an antenna attached to the enclosure is connected to the control
Data Source
AI summary
A remote light switch system for mobile structures is disclosed. The system includes a power harness, an enclosure with a connector for engaging a light harness, and a control with a wireless module, a switch, and a controller. The control allows a user to selectively activate the electrical connection to the light features on the mobile structure. The system also includes an antenna attached to the enclosure and connected to the control. The system can be wirelessly controlled via a remote control, smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The enclosure can be attached to the mobile structure using a trailer attachment. The system can be used with various types of mobile structures and power sources.