Three-way switch for home automation apparatus and method
US8373313B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 15, 2010 |
| Grant date | Feb 12, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 19, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY04S20/14
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A switch for premises electrical circuits provides wireless control compatible with at least one home automation control system technology. A single switch design can operate two-, three-, and four-way circuits without alteration, and without recourse to coordinating remote switches. The switch includes processor functions for restoring a previous state after power interruption, and for establishing a state commanded during the power interruption. The switch uses two single-pole, single-throw relays for positive safety lockout, and adjusts relay actuation timing with reference to power waveform zero-crossing for contact arc reduction with inductive, tungsten, and capacitive loads.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.