Patent for “Wireless power and light, automation control”

Electronics – Barrie Davis, Benjamin Davis, Matthew Davis, Kortek Industries Pty Ltd

Search Patent for “Wireless power and light, automation control”

Abstract for “Wireless power and light, automation control”

“A power control device and its method of operation for controlling the electricity supply to an electrical appliance using a peer?to?peer wireless communications link between the controller and power control unit. The communication link can be established via Wi-Fi Direct and Bluetooth communications technology.

Background for “Wireless power and light, automation control”

Wireless technology has seen a significant increase in use over the past few years to control mains-powered appliances, lighting systems, and buildings heating and cooling. These systems are typically installed in large buildings, and allow for efficient control over the whole local environment.

The proliferation of domestic wireless networks has provided a framework for wireless home automation. These networks are generally based on Wi-Fi Alliance standards and are commonly known as Wi-Fi. Specialized systems, which use Wi-Fi technology that is not standard, have their own networks and conform to specifications like Zigbee. The network arrangements are in essence similar but not compatible.

Conventional Wi-Fi networks are based on the presence a particular control device called a wireless Access point. These devices are used to provide physical support for wireless networks, bridge and route between devices, and allow devices and users to be added and removed from the network. A typical Wi-Fi home network includes a wired connection with the telephone Wide Area Network for broadband Internet services. There are many computers, printers tablets, smartphones and other similar devices that can be connected wirelessly to an Access Point. These devices don’t communicate with one another directly, but rather through the Access Point which acts as a gateway to all communications.

It is obvious that home automation using a Wi Fi network requires the provision a wireless Access Point as well as a user interface device, such a a PC to run even the most basic of systems. The entire home automation system can fail if the Access Point is disabled. All communications must pass through the Access Point. The Access Point may become overwhelmed if there are many high-traffic devices attached to it, which can cause data latency and impede home automation functions.

“The present invention has two parts in one preferred embodiment: a power control device, or unit, that plugs into a standard mains outlet to supply power to electrical or electronic devices connected to it, and a battery-powered controller that can communicate with the power unit via a short-range wireless link.

The power control unit can be defined as a device that performs functions specifically for the system. A commercially available cellular phone or mobile phone may be used as the controller. It should have the computing power, graphics display, and wireless communication capability that are typical of smartphones. The ability to load and execute an application program on the smartphone operating systems is a major reason why a smartphone may be preferred to control the invention.

The controller acts as an interface between the user’s computer and the power control unit. The user can activate power control unit functions by entering a command into the controller. One preferred use for the switch unit version is to control the switching of mains electricity to an attached electronic or electrical device. This can be done in response to commands from the controller. The wireless link between the controller and the switch unit allows the unit to be hidden from view and controlled by the controller. A simple controller is sufficient to instruct the switch unit to disconnect or connect mains power to the attached device. It is best to have a mobile, hand-held device, such as a tablet or smartphone, as the controller. A stationary device, such as a desktop computer, is not recommended.

“Another preferred embodiment of the invention may include a power controller unit with more functions than a permanent wired home automation system. The controller could be more complex and include a graphic interface to allow the user to control the functions they want.

“The power controller unit should be able to use Wi-Fi Direct technology for wireless communications. “Wi-Fi direct” is the term used here. Refers to Wi-Fi Alliance’s Wi Fi Direct specification. It is subject to change from time to time. What is the Wi-Fi Direct device? Refers to a device that can initiate communication using Wi-Fi Direct technology with another device.

“The controller is typically a cellular phone or mobile phone, also known as a smartphone that supports Wi-Fi and legacy Wi-Fi. As used herein, ?legacy Wi-Fi? Refers to IEEE 802.11a/g/n WiFi specification. The Wi-Fi Direct specification, as well as other wireless communication specifications like Bluetooth, may be supported by the controller. The invention can be described as a smartphone except where otherwise noted. The controller could be, for example, any device that can download or install an application program by another means, and provide a user with a suitable interface so they can interact and execute the functions. It can also have legacy Wi-Fi and/or Wi Fi Direct capabilities to allow communications to be established with a power supply unit. Tablets, laptops, and notebook computers are examples of such devices.

“Most smartphones supporting the Apple, Inc. iOS, Google, Inc. Android, or Microsoft, Inc. Windows operating system also support IEEE 802.11, which allows users to connect to the appropriate Wi-Fi Access point and then to the Internet in much the same manner as other computers connecting to Wi-Fi networks. Smartphones are starting to support Wi-Fi Direct natively, even though this is the minimum wireless communication standard. A Wi-Fi Direct peer to-peer communications link would be the preferred communication method between the power supply unit and the smartphone for smartphones with Wi-Fi Direct capability.

There are many wireless standards that can be used to implement the wireless connection, including Bluetooth, Zigbee and Near Field Communications. A Frequency-shift Keying system (FSK), which operates in unrestricted radio frequency band could be used.

“In particular, smartphones support Bluetooth wireless specification Bluetooth IG class 2.1+EDR and later. Bluetooth, like Wi-Fi Direct is a peer-to-peer wireless communication method that can be used to provide similar capabilities for certain embodiments of the invention. However, it does not alter the originality or function of the invention.

The present invention, in one preferred embodiment, provides a power control device that controls an electrical apparatus via a peer to peer link with a controller. This allows for control of the supply of electricity to the apparatus. The controller includes a processor, memory, a user interface and a wireless communication transceiver. A microprocessor with a memory, a power control circuit to adjust the electricity supply to the electrical device; and a wireless communication transceiver that can be used for peer-to-peer two-way communication with the controller. If the controller is Wi-Fi Direct, the microprocessor can be configured to create a peer to-peer wireless communications connection with the controller.

“Simulating an Access Point” is the term used herein. (or variations thereof) A role in which a discovery messages is sent to initiate contact with another device.

“The present invention also provides a method of remotely controlling an electric apparatus to control the supply of electricity to it. This is a preferred aspect. This method involves opening a peer-to peer wireless communications link that is secure and two-way between a wireless control device (the power control devices controlling the supply electricity to an electrical apparatus), and then opening the peer to peer wireless communications link. The command includes: transmitting a command to the wireless controller to change the supply electricity to the apparatus; receiving it at the power controller; and changing the supply electricity to the apparatus in accordance to the command.

“Another preferred aspect of the invention is a power control device that controls an electrical apparatus via a peer to peer link with a controller. This allows for control of the supply of electricity to the apparatus. The controller includes a processor, memory, a user interface and a wireless communication transceiver. The power control device comprises a microprocessor with a memory, a power control circuit that implements a command from microprocessor to change the supply of electricity to electrical apparatus; and wireless communications transceiver capable of peer-to-peer two-way communication with controller. To initiate contact with the controller, the microprocessor will always send a discovery signal to establish a peer to peer wireless communications link.

The present invention also provides a method of remotely controlling an electric apparatus to control the supply of electricity to it. This method involves opening a peer-to peer wireless communications link that is secure and two-way between a wireless control device and a power controller. The power control devices control the supply electricity to the apparatus. A discovery message is sent by the power controller to establish contact with the wireless control device.

“In another preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a power controller device for controlling an electric apparatus via a peer to peer link with a controller. This allows the controller to control the supply of electricity to the apparatus. The controller includes a processor, memory, a user interface and a wireless communication transceiver. The device comprises a microprocessor with a memory, a power control circuit that implements a command from microprocessor to change the supply of electricity to electrical apparatus; and wireless communications transceiver capable of two-way, peer to-peer communication between the controller and the user. While the device is connected to the controller, the microprocessor can negotiate with the controller to determine whether the controller or microprocessor will take on the role of group owner.

“Those skilled in the art will see alternate embodiments of this invention from the consideration of the specification. The examples and specification should be considered exemplary and the true scope and spirit the invention will be revealed by the claims.

“FIG. “FIG. Three network clients are connected wirelessly to access point 12, although there is a limit to the number of clients. For example, a network can have access to point 12, a client 14 (tablet), 16 (power control device), and 18 (smartphone). Access point 12 must be used for all communications. To allow the smartphone to communicate over the network with a power controller device, it must communicate with access point 12. This is true for all messages that the tablet sends to a power control device. It can be seen that access point 12 must always remain operational for communications to take place; (2) the network must be limited to the area defined by the minimum radio transmission range between a client and the access points; (3) an access point must have at least one client; and (4) a client must be capable of configuring and maintaining the access point operations.

“FIG. “FIG. Both peer-to-peer client can connect wirelessly to the group owner (power controller unit) without the need for an access point. Below is a detailed description of the power control unit. If desired, the group owner can establish 1:N connections so that both the tablet and smartphone have a communication link with him. The group owner can also limit itself to 1:N connections, in which case it will only establish one communication link with a peer-to-peer client. FIG. FIG. 2 shows that the power control unit can be used as a group owner to choose whether it wants to communicate with either the tablet or the smartphone depending on the access rules between the devices. It can be seen that (1) an access point 12 or a third device is not necessary for peer-to?peer communications; (2) the communications link can be formed as needed. The only restriction on the positioning of the group owner is the ability to bring the client within radio range if a communications link needs to be established.

“In one preferred embodiment, a power control unit is designed to use the Wi-Fi Direct specifications to perform the functions as a WiFi Access Point. It can also appear to legacy WiFi devices such as smartphones as a WiFi Access Point. This mode allows the Wi-Fi Direct device to communicate with legacy WiFi devices that support IEEE 802.11 specifications. This allows Wi-Fi Direct devices to establish peer-to-peer connections with legacy Wi Fi devices on an as-needed basis.

Wi-Fi Direct offers a number advantages that make it easier to communicate between a power controller unit and a smartphone acting as a controller. The significant advantages include mobility and portability. Both the power control unit and smartphone can be placed anywhere, with the exception of being within radio range. This is necessary to establish wireless communications. When the radio of the power control unit is set up to work according to Wi-Fi Direct specifications, it can connect and communicate with any device that supports Wi-Fi Direct or legacy Wi-Fi communications. The smartphone’s graphical display can show the identity and services of each power controller unit, which allows the user to see if a connection has been established. Wi-Fi Direct can provide secure communications between your smartphone and the power controller unit using the Wi-Fi Direct encryption capability to transport messages. This ensures that the system is safe and only qualified devices are able communicate with one another. Wi-Fi Direct allows peer-to-peer communication. This means that the smartphone and power control unit can establish a unique wireless communications link according to their own specifications.

“In a preferred embodiment, the control unit contains a Wi Fi Direct radio. This radio is configured to preferably only work as the Wi Fi Direct Group Owner (GO). Wi-Fi Direct devices can connect to other devices within 1:N groups (GO-N devices), but when integrated into a power controller unit, the functionality is limited to a 1:1 or peer to-peer connection. If the power control unit grants the right, the legacy Wi-Fi devices will be able set up a communication link. Wi-Fi Alliance specifications describe the details of setting up a communications link between Wi-Fi Direct devices and legacy Wi-Fi device. This would be easily understood by professionals who are skilled in communication protocols.

As smartphones continue to develop, new models are being released at an increasing rate. One of the improvements that is now available is Wi-Fi Direct. One preferred embodiment of this invention is that, if the power controller radio receives a Wi-Fi Direct reply to a device discovery messages, they will negotiate which device will become the Group Owner according to the Wi-Fi Alliance Wi-Fi Direct specification as modified from time to time. A 1:1 or peer-to-peer Wi-Fi Direct communication connection is established. Wi-Fi Direct specifications permit any Wi-Fi direct device to become the Group Owner. Depending on the device’s capabilities, the negotiation process determines which device is best suited to fulfill this role. The power control unit can regulate significant amounts of electrical power, up to 1,875 Watts for a 110-volt domestic system and 2,400 Watts for an 240-volt domestic system. Any connected device must be identified and authorized.

“FIG. “FIG. A controller can be simple or complex. It can switch on the power control unit, turn it off, or provide a user with an extensive range of functions.

“Smartphone 100” is preferably a commercially-available smartphone, such as the iPhone by Apple, Inc., Blackberry by RIM Ltd., Google, Inc., Android products by Motorola, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, LG, and other manufacturers, and Windows-based products from Nokia and others. Preferably, the smartphone will have a touch-sensitive graphical interface, a compatible radio transmitter (TX/RX), and the ability run an application program (App). This app provides control for the wirelessly connected power controller unit. The term “Controller App” is used herein. The term “Controller App” will be used herein to describe an application program that acts as a control interface to a wirelessly connected power controller unit. Although the Controller App functions will be the same on all smartphones, each Controller App must be compatible with the operating system that it is designed to run on, including iOS, BlackBerry OS Android, Windows Phone or any other applicable operating systems. The smartphone should have Wi-Fi capability so that the user can connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi access points or hotspots.

“FIGS. “FIGS. Below, we will discuss the functional electronics in greater detail. To protect the user from high voltage circuits and allow for easy transference of radio frequency power between the power control unit 200, and smartphone 100, the body or housing 202 should be made of plastic.

“Front face 200 of power control unit 200 features a socket208 with two slots 215 and 212, and semicircular hole 214. These slots are intended to accept NEMA 1-15 or NEMA 5-15 unpolarized plugs. The plug 216 is located on the rear face of power control unit 200. It has two parallel flat non-coplanar blades 218, 220- and a prong or grounding pin 222. The prong and blades should conform to the NEMA 5-15P North American mains plug. They can be inserted in any NEMA 5-15R outlet or socket. The slot and hole should conform to NEMA 5-15R North American power socket outlet. They will accept any NEMA 1 or NEMA 5 (two-prong) plug.

“The power control unit should be rated for a current of at least 15 amps at a voltage of 125 V. Preferably, the power control unit described is in accordance to the specifications of National Electrical Manufacturers Association. This association is used in the majority of North America as well as 38 other countries. You will appreciate that the power controller unit can be set up according to the requirements of different countries in terms of current and voltage, as well as plug and socket configurations.

“FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the functional electronics of power controller unit 300. The mains power plug terminals are used to connect the power control unit. They are denoted as Ap (active), Ep (earth) and Np (neutral). The Power Supply Unit (PSU), 302 provides the mains power to the power control unit. The Micro Controller Unit (MCU), 304 is recommended to determine the functions of power control unit. This can be done under the direction of smartphone 100.

“Commands and responses between MCU304 and smartphone 100 are transmitted via a radio frequency wireless link that is supported by radio 306 or aerial 308. The power control unit’s output socket is used to connect electrical or electronic devices. It can be connected as As (active), Ns, and Es. The Ep and Np input plug terminals can be connected directly to the Es and Ns output sockets. The As plug terminal is connected via power control circuits 311 to the As output socket. These power control circuits are controlled by MCU304. They allow the power controller to connect or disconnect mains power to any attached device or appliance under the control of the user via smartphone 100. The user can manually turn power control unit 300 off by disconnection switch 312. This allows power control circuits to 310 to disconnect Ap. Connect switch 314 allows you to manually turn power controller unit 300 ON, by activating power control circuits 311 to connect Ap with As.

“Referring FIGS. “Referring to FIGS. This allows power control unit 300 to control mains power supply to connected devices using power control circuits 311.

The power supply unit PSU302 should be plugged into mains power outlets or sockets that have mains power. PSU 302 converts high-voltage mains power (which can be as high as 125 volts) to the appropriate voltage to power MCU304, power control circuits 311 and radio 306

“MCU 304 preferably includes a firmware program that defines the operation of the power control units. The MCU ensures that power control circuits 311 are not closed when power is applied to it. This prevents any power being sent to any attached device or appliance. The MCU activates radio 306 to attempt communication with nearby smartphones.

“Pairing smartphone 100 with power control unit 300 is necessary before they can communicate. This is done using the wireless standard’s pairing process. This is only necessary once, and every time smartphone 100 and power control unit 300 are within wireless range, smartphone 100 will be able to initiate a dialogue using serial data commands and replies. Smartphone 100 can therefore send commands to power controller 300, which will then execute the commands, using its firmware and MCU 304.

“Smartphone 100 can be configured to establish a wireless connection with a paired control unit 300. However, the Controller App determines the commands that cause power control unit to execute one or more functions. The Controller App prefers to determine the commands and replies smartphone 100 exchanges with power controller unit 300.

“The Controller app is activated by the user using the smartphone’s touch sensitive graphic screen 102 (FIG. 3). 3. The Controller App can be preloaded on a device or downloaded from a server via a wireless network, Internet, or computer.

“The Controller app is programmed to convert user requests via smartphone’s graphics screen, 102 into commands that are transmitted to the power controller unit MCU304 through the transmitter from smartphone 100 to radio 306.

Referring to FIG. “Referring to FIG. Graphics screen102 is also preferred to be touch-sensitive. This allows the Controller App to display a graphical representation of available options to the user, and then decide which option they want by touching the graphics screen. FIG. 1 shows an example of a Controller App graphical picture. 13 (Controller App 106). The Controller App is activated most often by touching an icon that represents the Controller App on the graphics screen. So that the user can continue with the instructions to the paired power controller unit, the operating system will load the Controller App as the currently running App.

The ease with which the graphical presentation can change for different languages is an important consideration when using touch sensitive graphics screen102 as the interface between the smartphone’s user and the device. The icon images can be kept the same but the graphical interface allows text from an alphabetic language like English to be replaced by text in a pictorial language like Japanese. This is done by changing the graphics on the graphics screen. The screen’s underlying functions respond to touch inputs, regardless of language.

Below is an example of a preferred interaction between the Controller App, and the power controller unit. This example assumes that the pairing is a single paired wireless link. Smartphones have a standard feature: a hierarchy of pages. This can be accessed by clicking on an icon on graphics screen 102, or pressing a physical button on your device. The icons are specific to a particular App, such as a World Time Calendar or a Telephone Directory.

“The Controller app is best represented by an icon on graphics 102. When it is selected, the smartphone’s operating system activates Controller App which displays the user interface on graphics 102. You can select the desired function from the list and then by touching the appropriate graphic representation, the function will be executed.

Below is an example sequence in which smartphone 100 activates power controller unit 300. It is assumed that the smartphone can determine which power control unit is present.

“When the Controller App icon is touched on the touch sensitive graphical screen 100 of smartphone 100, the smartphone?s operating system activates Controller App. The Controller App activates smartphone 100’s radio, asking for information about any power control units within wireless range. The Power Control Unit 300 sends a message to the smartphone 100, which includes information about the type of the power controller unit. You can assign a name to your power control unit during pairing so that it is easily identifiable by you. This is especially useful in complex arrangements with multiple power control units. Names like?TV? Names such as?TV? oder?Stereo? can be associated with power control units that control the TV and stereo. These units control the TV and stereo, allowing for easy identification.

Although the power control unit is a basic device that switches electricity to an electronic device or appliance, its functionality can be greatly enhanced by the Controller App which can instruct it to do so.

Referring to FIG. “Referring again to FIG. It is possible to send commands to the power controller unit to create more complicated functions. These commands can be used to define a sequence or events that the power control units will execute as a time sequence. A countdown timer is one example.

“A simple switch on/off of the electrical supply is not sufficient for some applications. If the household iron is being used to remove wrinkles from fabric, for example, it can only be used intermittently by the power control unit. It is known, however, that leaving an iron running after its task is done is a common occurrence, which can lead to fires or injuries to children and pets. Additionally, the iron consumes electricity which can be costly for both the environment and the user.

The Controller App allows the user to select the countdown function of the power control unit from a list. The Controller App will ask the user to choose the time that the appliance connected to the power control unit should be powered. The user can choose to either select a pre-set time interval, such as 1 hour, or enter a time period that is represented by a numeric keyboard (e.g, 20 minutes).

“When the user activates a countdown timer for the specified time period, MCU304 instructs Controller App to connect power to attached appliance for the period of time selected by the user and then to disconnect power. MCU 304’s firmware interprets the commands from the Controller App. It executes the requested function by closing the power control circuits 310 only for the time specified.

The user can send a disconnect request to the control unit via the Controller App if they wish to end the countdown timer at any point. If the power control unit can be accessed by the user, the countdown will stop immediately by pressing the disconnect switch 312. This causes MCU304 to immediately disconnect power control circuits 312. It is possible to program the termination function to be accessible to any user, regardless of whether or not the smartphone has a wireless connection with the power controller unit.

It will be apparent that the power control unit can provide many high-level functions to users by using one or more applications programs. A period timer is an example function where the power controller connects power at a predetermined time and for a predetermined time. The present invention allows for single or multiple daily start/stop times, selection day timers as well as repetition timers, combination timers, and many other functions.

“It is important to note that power control unit 300 does not need to include a clock/calendar function, which can be used independently from smartphone 100. This does not prevent power control unit 300 from performing its timer functions when it is unable to communicate with smartphone 100. MCU304 determines the timing requirements for a Timer function initiated by a user based on the time the function was received via the Controller App.

“Information including the date and current time is sent to the MCU firmware in order that it can perform the function automatically without the Controller App having to intervene. The absolute time parameters of MCU 304 are preferably updated if communications cease between Controller App and MCU 304. However, this is not a requirement for the operation the power control unit. Some preferred embodiments include a hardware clock/calendar function with a battery backup. This would allow for more complex functions and allow functions to be restarted in the event of a mains power failure.

“In one or several preferred embodiments, the Controller App can program a power control unit to perform a function when a communication link is established. It can also stop the function when the link is broken. This operation allows the user to have the power controller unit activate a radio or music source automatically when a communications link is established between the smartphone and the device. It can also deactivate the connected device if the smartphone moves beyond the range of communication. This combination of functions could allow the user to have music or lights turn on automatically when they enter a room, and off when they leave.

“Power control unit 300 may store, or alternatively, functions from the smartphone and run them when a user presses the connect switch 314. The Controller App can be used to program the power control unit as a countdown timer for 30 minutes. This could be activated by the Controller App. You can also allow the power control unit start or resume the desired operation by pressing the connect switch 314. After the power control unit has been programmed, it can connect the attached device or appliance to the mains power supply for up to 30 minutes per press of the connect switch. This is without the need for further communication with the smartphone. The smartphone can be used to terminate or modify any function at any time. Disconnect switch 312 is a device that can be set up to disable an operating function and will terminate it.

The above description of a countdown clock that is activated by pressing the connect button is one example of complex functions that can sent to any of the power control units. This allows them to initiate and complete a program without the Controller App. Although it is best to use a complex system to build functions for the power controller unit, the end result is a device capable of performing programmed tasks by simply pressing the connect switch. The task might be different at another time. In this case, the power control unit can be: (a. reprogrammed using Controller App with a new function to operate autonomously; (b. controlled directly by the user via the Controller App running on Android operating system; and/or (c. cleared from the store operation using a combination or all of the exposed controls.”

“Those skilled in the art will see that the power control unit described here may be a simple device with a few basic functions. These basic functions can be combined in many ways with one or more time parameters to create complex functions. The Controller App runs on the smartphone’s operating system. However, the basic functions can be found in the power control unit. This allows for complex functions to be created.

It is better to cover all aspects of the product’s operation from the beginning, as any changes once the product hits the market could lead to obsolescence at best or the need to replace units if new features become necessary.

The power control unit can be set up to allow for the addition or updating of functions in one preferred embodiment. Reprogrammable memory is a type of semiconductor memory that can store the control functions of a power controller unit. It is more durable than other permanent memories and can be programmed with new data as needed. Over time, additional functions may be required by a power controller unit that were not available in previous versions. It is possible to transfer new applications and functional programs from the smartphone to the control unit by using the reprogrammable memory.

“Normally, this operation would be controlled by the user. They would choose if they want to modify the functions of their power control unit. This capability can also be achieved using the Controller App upgrade, if the radio firmware or MCU needs to be upgraded. While an upgrade is not always necessary, it may be essential in some instances. The Controller App will activate a special procedure that will download the updated power control unit functional code and/or applications codes from the appropriate server. The Controller App and the MCU would then transfer new firmware to power control unit using wireless communication link. It would then be stored in the programable memory. The functional firmware of the power controller would use a specific transfer mechanism to load the firmware, then perform a system reset. This would allow the operation of the power control units to be transferred to the new firmware. The Controller App could be updated at the same time as the firmware for the power control unit. This would ensure that both the smartphone’s and power control units functions are compatible.

This capability could be used in a number of ways. For example, if the original power control unit was only equipped with an ON/OFF switch and an ON/(delay timer)/OFF countdown timesr functions. A Controller App that includes these functions and a programmable event timing device that cycles every 24hrs with a new ON/ (delay period 1)/OFF/ (delay period 2)/ON function may be created at a later date. This function may be provided by the physical hardware of the power control unit, however the earlier-developed Controller App wasn’t available when the power control unit was made. The Controller App, which was developed later than the original MCU program, can be used to update the power controller unit so it recognizes and processes all three functions instead of just the two functions originally programmed. This is a unique capability that can’t be found in conventional control devices.

“Every smartphone is individually known? The MCU allows more than one smartphone to be paired with each power control unit. Each paired smartphone may have different functions, or user profiles. These profiles describe the specific users’ needs for power control units.

“Before a power controller unit can communicate wirelessly with a smartphone, the two devices must be?paired? They will be able to communicate with one another. This validates the association between smartphone and power control unit, so that the power controller can recognize the smartphone and accept it as authorized. If the power control unit 300 is used, it should be placed in ‘pairing mode. It is best to place the power control unit 300 in?pairing mode’. This can be done by plugging it into a mains outlet and pressing and holding the disconnect switch 312 for a minimum of 10 seconds. You will appreciate that the paring time may take longer or shorter than 10 seconds. If the smartphone is in?pairing mode? It will recognise the request from power controller 300 to?pair. Both devices will then exchange information to complete the pairing. process. The Controller App on the smartphone will notify the user when the ‘pairing? process is complete. The pairing process has been completed by the Controller App running on the smartphone. Pairing is typically only necessary once per smartphone. Each power control unit should be able to?pair?. If desired, you can pair more than one power control unit with a smartphone. You will appreciate the other?pairing’ options. It is possible to use other methods.”

When a power control unit has been manufactured, it is preferred that its sole function is to act as a switch device. By pressing the connect switch 314, power control circuits 312 will connect the attached device with the mains power. When disconnect switch 312 is pressed the connection is maintained. This causes power control circuits to 310 to disconnect attached devices from mains power.

“As stated above, the Controller App can be used to program the power controller unit with the countdown function. You can manually program the power control unit to act as a countdown timer for controlling power to appliances and electrical equipment. The user can manually program the countdown by pressing and holding the disconnect switch 312 for 10 seconds. After that, press and release the connect switch 314. The countdown program mode is initiated by power control unit 300 when connect switch 314 is released. It will take a minimum of 30 minutes before the initial delay starts. The countdown timer function will be executed by power control unit 300 if the user releases disconnect switch 314. This happens every time connect switch 314 can be pressed and released. You will appreciate that other time intervals can be programmed in the same way.

To reset a power controller unit, it is advisable to press both the disconnect and connect switches simultaneously for a period of at least 5 seconds. After the five second period ends, all stored functions are cancelled. The power control unit then reverts back to its primary function. In the case of power control unit 300 it is preferably an ON (connect button 314) or OFF (disconnect button 312) power switching device that connects attached equipment and/or appliances with the mains power.

“Each time that the Controller App sends an operation command to the power controller unit, the function is stored in memory and replaced the previous command. The last function stored is activated whenever the start button is pressed. In some cases, it may be more convenient to temporarily activate another function while still keeping the primary function in memory. The Controller App temporary function mode allows you to sequence the desired function by the Controller App by simply sending appropriate function commands directly to the power control unit. The power control unit doesn’t store these function commands but executes them when they are received from Controller App. The last stored function will be reactivated if the function is ended or the power controller unit loses communication link with the smartphone. Temporary function mode should be activated only while the communication link between the smartphone’s power control unit and the smartphone is active.

“Referring to FIG. “Referring now to FIG. 6, a switch unit 400 has been shown in accordance of another preferred embodiment. The switch unit 400 is identical to the power control unit 300, except that the power control circuits of 310 are constructed as a relay.

“In many cases, a cheap relay can be used to connect and disconnect the mains power supply to connected appliances or devices. All of the power control functions and capabilities of power control unit 300 are possible with switch unit 400. The switch unit 400 is a cost-effective and simple way to regulate power to electronic devices.

“In another preferred embodiment, the power control unit can be formed as a wall outlet unit. This configuration may be similar to the one shown in FIG. 6. Wall outlet switches perform preferably the same functions as switch unit 400.

The wall outlet switch can be used to replace standard electrical wall outlets. It connects to electrical circuits in a building in a similar manner and has a switch like switch 414 that turns on the power outlet socket and a switch like switch 412 that turns off the electricity to the power outlet socket.

The wall outlet switch can link to a Controller App that runs on a smartphone operating platform in a manner similar to switch unit 400. The wall outlet switch may have all of the functions that are available to the unit.

“Referring to FIG. “7” shows a dimmer control 500 in accordance to another preferred embodiment. Dimmer unit 500 is identical to power control unit 300, except that power circuits 310 also include a dimmer controller 510.

The dimmer unit controls and adjusts the power transfer to attached lights. These lights must have the right characteristics to enable the user to vary the output of light from full on to full off using the smartphone 100. MCU 504 firmware is best suited for the dimmer units.

The dimmer unit’s preferred function is to regulate the amount of light emitted from a connected individual or system light. The attached light’s electrical power can be controlled by the dimmer control510. This is controlled by MCU 504 with its firmware. The dimmer control can dim the leading and trailing edges of the lamp by adjusting the electrical load. This is possible because it can be resistive or inductive depending on the arrangement.

“As with power control unit 300,” the Controller App runs on the smartphone’s operating system. The user can control the dimming unit functions using the Controller App. The Controller App will recognize that the light dimming unit must be controlled when it establishes radio communication with MCU504 via radio 506

Instead of showing the timer and switch functions to the user the Controller App displays a list of functions that are applicable to the dimmer units by touching the icon of the dimmer on the smartphone’s screen. The user might be asked to select the type of light that is connected to the dimmer units during pairing to ensure the proper dimming algorithm. The Controller App allows for the user to change the type of light that is selected during subsequent activations.

“The dimmer unit 500’s preferred function is to turn the attached light ON or OFF, in a manner similar to a light switch. Graphics screen 102 (FIG.2) can also display a graphic representation. The attached lighting system emits light at different levels. The graphics screen 102 allows the user to input touch gestures that will allow the Controller App to determine if the user wishes to modify the light intensity, increase or decrease the intensity depending on the user’s touch input, and (c) to specify the rate atwhich the light intensity should change. (d) to specify how much light is to be released at the end of the function.

“The Controller Apps use the smartphone operating system, communications link, and preferably instruct MCU 504 to the firmware of the desired function. The controller then executes the instructions.

It may be noted that basic functions of the dimmer unit 500 are also available to power control unit 300. The Controller App and graphics screen may offer options that allow for dimming to be delayed, turning off the light at a specific time, or turning it on and off at a later date. The Controller App graphics screen 102 and touch sensitive graphics screen 102 allow the user to select these and other functions.

The functions of power control unit 300 can be supported by the “dimmer unit 500”. The control function of dimmer unit 500 can connect or disconnect the power supply to a light system. It can also be used to connect and disconnect the communication link with the smartphone. The power control unit 300 timer function can be used with dimmer units 500 and 500. It is also capable of supporting multiple paired smartphones with different user profiles.

“If desired, dimmer unit 500 may be integrated directly into a light pedestal/stand-alone light.

“FIG. 8. This is a block diagram for a 600 watt wall dimmer. The wall dimmer 600 is preferred because it has the same functions of dimmer 500, but is mounted behind a standard domestic light dimmer plate. It can also be interchangeable. The wall dimmer unit 600 can be retrofitted to existing light fixtures to extend light dimming capabilities.

Wall dimmer unit 600 can be used as a replacement for standard wall light switches. It is connected to the electrical circuits of a building wall with switch 614, which turns on the lights, and switch 612 that turns them off. This function works in the same way as a normal light switch.

Wall dimmer units 600 and 500 can be connected to Controller Apps running on smartphones. Wall dimmer 600 may have all of the functions that are available to the dimmer units. Multiple wall dimmer units can be mounted behind one wall plate to create a multi-circuit unit that allows for individual control over large areas of lighting.

“FIG. 9 is a block diagram for a switch strip 700. A switch strip 700 is made up of multiple units that are contained in one housing. It has a common PSU 702, MCU 704 and radio 706. MCU 704 can control multiple mains power outlets AS1, N1, ES1 and ESN using multiple relays 710 through 716.

“Referring FIG. 9 The component parts PSU702, MCU704, radio 706, aerial 708 and relay 710 perform the same functions that are described above for switch unit 400.

“Switch Strip 700 plugs into a standard socket or wall outlet. Switch strip outlets (1) through (N) can be controlled by relay 710 (1) and relay 716 (N), so the switch strip can be considered multiple units connected to one electrical point. The Controller App, which runs on a smartphone’s operating system, can control each outlet individually. This concept is similar to many power boards on the market.

“All functions listed above for switch unit 400 are preferably available to every outlet on switch strip 700. The Controller App allows the user to name each outlet of the switch strip individually using a meaningful notation. Outlet 1 can be renamed?TV? Outlet 2 will become?Stereo? and so forth. You can also give the switch strip a global name, such as “Entertainment Unit.”

“The MCU 704 firmware and the smartphone Controller App are best able to group outlets, so that one function can be applied to multiple outlets. This allows for multiple outlets to be controlled simultaneously, such as turning off a scanner, printer and PC in just 5 minutes. You can control different sub-groups or outlets using different programs.

“It is also possible to replace an outlet relay with the appropriate dimmer control circuits and MCU firmware by using one or more switch strip 700 outlets.”

“FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a representative system, which preferably uses a single smartphone 100 with multiple power control units 200.

Referring to FIG. 10 smartphone 100 wirelessly communicates with power control units 200. It is preferably a peer to peer system without a central hub. The preferred wireless communication connection between smartphone 100 and power control units 200 is a two-way one. Each power control unit 200 should include a wireless interface, such as radio 306

“Preferential embodiments of this invention use a smartphone to control the device, but a smartphone that incorporates at least Wi-Fi Direct and at minimum conventional Wi-Fi is preferred. Other wireless communication systems, such as Near Field Communications (NFC), or Bluetooth, could also be used, depending on the particular application. NFC is an extension to the ISO/IEC 14443 standard for proximity cards. NFC can communicate with distances less than 0.2m and transmit data at approximately 424 Kbit/s. However, it is more than sufficient to meet the data communication requirements of certain preferred embodiments.

“Bluetooth allows Bluetooth devices to establish peer-to-peer connections in the same way as Wi-Fi direct. In such situations, Bluetooth wireless links can replace Wi-Fi direct wireless links and perform similar or similar functions.”

“Bluetooth can coexist within the same frequency band, and most smartphones have both Bluetooth or conventional Wi-Fi capability. The Wi-Fi direct specification only requires one connecting device to support Wi-Fi Direct, so the large number of smartphones that support conventional WiFi means that preferred embodiments support the WiFi Direct standard.

Bluetooth and Wi Fi Direct are two examples of two way communication networks that can be used with preferred embodiments. Future two-way communication systems that are based on different specifications, methods, technologies, or protocols may be developed and made compatible with the preferred embodiments. Peer-to-peer communication is preferred because it eliminates the need for a base station or any other intermediary devices such as access points or wireless routers. In a preferred embodiment, these intermediary devices are excluded to ensure that communication between controller and power control unit is peer-to-peer. A preferred embodiment also excludes the use of traditional ad-hoc radio technology because such technology is too complex relative to any potential benefits it may provide.

Summary for “Wireless power and light, automation control”