The disclosure is related to a ceiling fan control system and method of use. More specifically, this disclosure is related to an electronic ceiling fan control system and method for controlling and manipulating the basic, as well as enhanced, features of a ceiling fan or wireless device.
For many years, ceiling fans have been widely used to provide a cooling function as well as a lighting function to consumers. Controlling such cooling and lighting functions of existing ceiling fans is complex and cumbersome for the user, with such fans having limited incremental features. Ceiling fans offer cooling and lighting functional features which are usually operated by one or more pull chains and/or by a remote control. Such cooling feature typically includes several speeds: high, medium, low and off. The lighting feature of the fan typically includes the options: on, off, and incremental dimming.
The cooling and lighting features are typically mechanically operated by pull chains and reverse switches. Existing ceiling fans comprise switch housings that contain the mechanical hardware which provides the operation to the functional features of the ceiling fan. Such mechanical hardware typically includes pull chains switches, a reverse switch, capacitors, a limiter, wiring, and connectors, all of which have size constraints that dictate the size and location of the switch housing. The switch housing interfaces with a standard 9-pin connector which serves as a universal connection point to provide power to lights, accessories and the motor of the fan.
Operating and/or controlling the cooling and lighting features of a ceiling fan by pull chains has its disadvantages. A ceiling fan typically includes two pull chains, a first pull chain for controlling the fan speed and the second pull chain for controlling the lighting feature. Although the pull chains are often labeled to clarify which pull chain provides which function, these labels are not readily visible and consumers are often confused as to which pull chain provides the desired function. Moreover, consumers often get frustrated when manipulating the pull chains resulting in multiple consecutive unnecessary actuations of the pull chains to achieve the desired fan function. Additionally, because the ceiling fan is secured to the ceiling and suspended therefrom, the pull chains are often difficult for users to reach depending on the height of the user or the height of the ceiling fan suspension. Another disadvantage to pull chains is that such pull chains may also be a distraction during the operation of the ceiling fan. For example, the two pull chains may sway during the operation of the fan which may lead the consumer to believe the ceiling fan is wobbling.
Ceiling fans also typically include a reverse switch which controls the rotary direction of the motor and thus the direction of the air flow. Controlling the direction of the air flow via a reverse switch is also difficult for the consumer due to the reverse switch being located on the switch housing of the suspended ceiling fan. Although a simple switch to operate, the reverse switch is difficult for the consumer to reach, and therefore operate, due to the elevated location of the ceiling fan.
Ceiling fans features, such as the cooling and lighting functions, may also be controlled by remote control operation. Such remote control operation includes using a remote controller to transmit wireless signals to the ceiling fan. Those signals are received by a receiving unit housed within the canopy of the ceiling fan to control the cooling and lighting operations of the ceiling fan. Operating and/or controlling the ceiling fan by an accessory remote control operation also has its disadvantages, including the expense and difficulty associated with the installation of the required canopy mounted receiver. Additionally, any maintenance and service required is extremely difficult, making it practical to install the remote control feature at initial installation. Moreover, while accessory remote control operation may provide the cooling and lighting functional features, such remote control operation is unable to provide control of the reverse air flow feature; and thus a reverse switch, which requires manual operation, must still be used in addition to an accessory remote control operation.
Moreover, the existing methods used to control a ceiling fan are limiting due to the fact that only one fan may be controlled and manipulated by such methods at any one time. For example, when controlling a fan by pull chains, only one fan is connected to the pull chain switches and thus only one fan is capable of being controlled by the manipulation of such pull chains. Also, when controlling a fan by accessory remote control, only one remote control transmits signals to one corresponding unit located in such ceiling fan and thus only one fan is capable of being controlled by the remote control.
An electronic ceiling fan control system and method of use to control and manipulate basic functional as well as enhanced features of one or more ceiling fans independently of mechanical operations, utilizing pull chains and reverse switches, is needed. Additionally, an electronic ceiling fan control system and method of use to control and manipulate basic functional features as well as enhanced features of a one or more ceiling fans, wherein such system provides a remote ready ceiling fan, is needed to avoid present remote control installation complications. Moreover, an electronic ceiling fan control system and method of use to control and manipulate basic as well as enhanced functional features of a plurality of ceiling fans located within a defined location, wherein such fan control and manipulation is performed via a wireless device, is needed
In one aspect, a control for a ceiling fan comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) having a wireless communication module and an electronic circuit coupled with the wireless communication module and configured to operate a ceiling fan; and a wired remote control device coupled to the printed circuit board and configured to send user selected signals to the electronic circuit on a first frequency. The electronic circuit is configured to be responsive to signals from the wired remote control device on the first frequency and to be responsive to signals from the wireless communication module on a second frequency.
The wired remote control device can include an isolated discrete digital interface for communication to the electronic circuit of the of printed circuit board. The isolated digital interface can include a capacitive or inductive isolation barrier.
The wired remote control device can be removably attached to the printed circuit board.
The wired remote control can further include a jack plug connector, a user interface, and an electronic cable coupled therebetween. The electronic cable can be an audio cable. The user interface can include at least two pushbuttons. The electronic circuit can be configured to reverse a direction of rotation of a plurality of fan blades in response to activation of one of the two pushbuttons.
The signals from the wired remote control device can be pulse width modulated.
The printed circuit board can further include a three way wall switch monitor configured to detect a state of an external light or wall switch.
The control can include a capacitive, transformerless power supply.
The wireless communication module can be configured to communicate by radio frequency, infrared, Bluetooth, near-field communication (NFC) or Wi-Fi.
In another aspect, a ceiling fan comprises a fan motor housing; a motor positioned within the motor housing; a plurality of fan blades rotatable by the motor; a fan controller comprising a printed circuit board having a wireless communication module and an electronic circuit coupled with the wireless communication module and configured to control the motor to rotate the plurality of fan blades; and a wired remote control device coupled to the printed circuit board and configured to send user selected signals to the electronic circuit on a first frequency. The electronic circuit is configured to be responsive to signals from the wired remote control device on the first frequency and to be responsive to signals from the wireless communication module on a second frequency.
The ceiling fan can further include at least one light. The electronic circuit can be further configured to control the at least one light in response to the signals from the wired remote control device.
An electronic ceiling fan control system and method of use to control and manipulate the basic functional as well as enhanced features of a ceiling fan independently of mechanical operation, utilizing pull chains and reverse switches, is disclosed. Such electronic fan control system replaces the mechanical control features contained in the switch housing of typical ceiling fans with electronic control features by introducing a printed circuit board. A radio frequency chip on board provides pre-loaded control capability of a ceiling fan. Such radio frequency chip may be paired with a transmitter to allow electronic control of a ceiling fan. In one embodiment, the printed circuit board is interfaced with a connector, such as a 9-pin connector, which provides a connection to supply power to the lights, accessories, and drive motor of the ceiling fan. In one embodiment, the 9-pin connector allows simple installation and backward capability. Such fan control system is remote ready and includes a receiver on board which allows its users the option of a low cost remote control upgrade at the time of installation of a ceiling fan or at any subsequent time after initial installation.
In one embodiment, an electronic ceiling fan control system and method of use may comprise a two buttoned wired control device which is connected to the printed circuit board of the fan controller and is used by a user to control the functional features of a ceiling fan. Such wired control device communicates with the fan controller, and thus eliminates the need for mechanical pull chains. In one embodiment, such control device is removably attached to the fan controller. In another embodiment, such electronic fan control system eliminates the need for the reverse switch typically found on the outside of the switch housing of a ceiling fan. Such reverse switch feature may be controlled by the fan controller 400.
The system includes the equipment and/or electrical components for allowing the transmission of communication signals between the wired control device and the ceiling fan controller on a first frequency. In another embodiment, a wireless control device may be used to communicate with the ceiling fan controller. The system herein disclosed includes the equipment and/or electrical components for allowing the transmission of wireless communication signals between a wireless control device and the remote ready ceiling fan controller on a second frequency which is different from the first frequency.
An electronic ceiling fan control system may comprise a radio frequency chip on board which provides pre-loaded control capability of the basic functional features of a ceiling fan as well as enhanced features. Such control capability may be personalized according to the needs and desires of its users. Such electronic control system and method of use provides a full featured fan controller having the hardware, software and electrical components for multiple built in control options including radio frequency communication, IR, PIR, Bluetooth low energy communication, WIFI, touch sense, voice recognition, motion sensing, occupancy sensing, temperature activation, level lights and home automation.
In one embodiment, such electronic control system may comprise a full featured fan controller having the hardware, software and electrical components for providing the additional functional features including off premises control capability which includes status confirmation and control; scheduling capability which includes programming vacation mode and security lights; scene selection capability which allows personalized setting of a ceiling fan's cooling and lighting functions depending on the activity of a user such as when a user may be watching a movie, exercising or sleeping; alarm clock capability which may include waking the user gently with fan operation creating a sunrise light or wind gust; and remote diagnostics capability which may include analyzing and troubleshooting consumer issues.
Compatible application may comprise additional application features including a notification feature which may include push notifications to change direction of blades, product launches, and sales; a registration feature which may include collecting user data in setup process and building a database for marketing and support; and a data feature which may include collecting data to understand how products are used by consumers to allow advancement and modifications of product and/or partnerships with others in industry such as utility companies.
In one embodiment, such electronic control system may comprise a full featured fan controller having the hardware and electrical components for multiple built in features which may include bidirectional radio frequency data communication in the 433 Mhz range; fully down-light control; audible feedback to the user; and integrated reversing module. The electronic control system may comprise the equipment or components for upgrading functionality of a ceiling fan including smart light module for additional lights; dumb light module with direct control from fan controller; light module interface which can also be used for ceiling fan peripherals (e.g., heater); and radio frequency module interface for expanding wireless communication capability, including Bluetooth low energy, Wi-Fi, and Zigbee.
In one embodiment, the wireless control device may be operable to communicate data messages via wireless signals such as radio frequency signals to one or more fan controllers via a direct wireless communication link, such as Bluetooth communication technology owned by Bluetooth Sig, Inc. The wireless control device may be operable to establish a wireless communication link with one or more fan controllers.
The preceding summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the present disclosure and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the present disclosure may be gained by taking into consideration the entire specification including the drawings.
In the drawings:
With reference next to the drawings, there is shown an electronic fan control system and method of use for controlling and manipulating functional features of a ceiling fan 100 in a preferred form of the invention.
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The interface 104 includes a low-cost isolated discrete digital interface with an isolation barrier by using a pulse-width modulated (PWM) digital pulse to excite a passive electrical circuit. In operation, the wired remote device includes a pulse-width modulated (PWM) digital pulse that excites passive electrical circuit elements. When the switches indicative of a user operating the interface of the wired remote device are closed, a signal is returned through the circuit. Because the PWM signal is DC coupled, it is not referenced to the digital ground when it returns and therefore does not to inspect the signal value just after these capacitors in order to determine the switch state. The ground path provides a low impedance path for the PWM signal to return when no buttons are closed to allow the circuit to operate with common, off-the-shelf audio cables that have a tightly coupled shield to the signal wires.
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In one embodiment, the remote-ready ceiling fan controller 400 may comprise the electrical components shown in
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In one embodiment, the nominal power that the supply may provide is as follows:
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The fan controller 400 may comprise an interface for controlling an off-board light interface as shown in
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In one embodiment, the electronic ceiling fan control system comprises a fan controller 400 which may be controlled by a wireless control device. The wireless control device (or wireless device) may be a smart phone, personal digital assistant (pda), laptop, personal computer, MP3 player, gaming device, television, tablet device or any other Internet Protocol-enabled device.
The wireless control device may be operable to communicate data messages via wireless signals such as radio frequency signals to one or more fan controllers via a direct wireless communication link, such as a Bluetooth communication technology owned by Bluetooth Sig, Inc. The wireless control device may be operable to establish a wireless communication link with a plurality of fan controllers. The Bluetooth Specification defines a uniform structure for a wide range of devices to connect and communicate with each other. The wireless control device communicates data messages to and from the fan controller via Bluetooth Smart Technology. Bluetooth Smart Technology includes Bluetooth low energy protocols. Bluetooth low energy (BTLE) is a subset of Bluetooth v4.0 and includes a protocol stack for rapid build-up of simple links. BTLE is aimed at low power applications running off a coin cell. BTLE chip designs allow for two types of implementation, dual-mode and single-mode, as well as enhanced past versions. In a single mode implementation, the low energy protocol stack is implemented solely. Single mode chips feature a lightweight Link Layer providing simple device discovery, ultra-power idle mode operation, and reliable point-to-multipoint data transfer. Such data transfer is made with advanced power-save and secure encrypted connections. Bluetooth technology transfers data within a user's Personal Area Network at distances up to 100 meters, depending on device implementation. Bluetooth technology operates in the unlicensed industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) band at 2.4 to 2.485 GHz, using a spread spectrum, frequency hopping, full-duplex signal at a nominal rate of 1600 hops/sec. The wireless device includes a small computer chip containing the Bluetooth radio transmitter and software operable to connect and transfer data, via a wireless communication link, to the fan controller which includes a receiver and software operable to receive and process data.
In another example embodiment, the wireless device may transmit data messages to the fan controller via any other wireless communication link, such as Wi-Fi communication or wireless network.
The wireless device may have an electronic visual display having a touch screen which allows the user to interact with the visual display through simple or multi-touch gestures by touching the screen with one or more fingers. The wireless control device may download a product control application which may allow the user to operate and control the fan control system.
Wireless control device displays a plurality of soft buttons and controls for the user to manipulate to control the fan load. In one embodiment, when utilizing a product control application to control fan load, a series of screenshots may be displayed on wireless control device. Upon launching a product control application via wireless device, a home screenshot may be displayed via electronic visual display while the application is launching as well as locating and connecting wireless control device with one or more nearby fan controllers. Wireless device may pair with any number of fan controllers in the event such fan controller is located within 100 feet of the wireless device. Once a wireless device locates and pairs with one or more fan controllers, a product control application may display a screenshot which demonstrates each fan controller with which the wireless device is now capable of transmitting data messages. If the wireless device attempts to pair with a fan controller but such fan controller is not visible, such fan controller may not be displayed and may be “greyed out” via the product control application. A fan controller may be greyed out when the wireless device is outside of the range of the fan controller. When this happens, the product control application will show the fan controller greyed out and thus such fan controller is not operable by wireless device. The product control application may refer to or designate each fan controller as a zone. It should be understood that other various designations other than “zone” may be used as desired by one of skill in the art.
Each fan controller (or zone) has a receiving unit or receiver located within a particular ceiling fan. In order to pair fan controller with a wireless control device, the receiving unit may be required to undergo a power cycle procedure before allowing the user to select the pair option on the screenshot during the configuration process. Such pairing between the receiving unit of fan controller and wireless control device allows wireless control device to transmit radio frequency signals to the receiving unit of one or more ceiling fans. The control device transmits wireless signals to the fan controller on a first frequency (for example, Bluetooth).
The foregoing disclosure has been set forth merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. Since modification of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to persons skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the disclosed invention and equivalents thereof.
The above-described embodiments provide a variety of benefits including providing a circuit that requires only single digital input from a microprocessor to detect the tri-state mode of a 3-way switch input. Another benefit includes providing an integrated solution that reduces the cost by integrating the motor control functions inside a single integrated circuit. That is, the processing, radio frequency control and communication, and motor control circuits are integrated inside of the single chip which reduces the board area required for the circuitry and allows for a tighter packaged product. Another benefit includes providing a low-cost isolated discrete digital interface with an isolation barrier by using a pulse-width modulated (PWM) digital pulse to excite a passive electrical circuit which provides an advantage over other solutions that include several components, including directional buffers, isolation barriers (inductive or capacitive) and a DC to DC converter to provide power to the isolated circuit in order to achieve an isolated discrete digital interface.
To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various embodiments may be used in combination with each other as desired. That one feature may not be illustrated in all of the embodiments is not meant to be construed that it may not be, but is done for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different embodiments may be mixed and matched as desired to form new embodiments, whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described. All combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered by this disclosure. These features may be combined in any suitable manner to modify the above embodiments and create new embodiments.
While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation. Reasonable variation and modification are possible within the scope of the forgoing disclosure and drawings without departing from the spirit of the invention which is defined in the appended claims.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/036,604, filed Aug. 12, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62036604 | Aug 2014 | US |