PROGRAMMABLE SWITCH AND SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in general relates to electrical switches used in lighting environments.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the past, switches in lighting environments have been primarily limited to manipulation into either an on or off position. Alternatively, switches in lighting environments have incorporated a “dimmer” or dimming feature, which utilizes a rotational member or a vertically sliding adjustment tab.

It has not been known to provide a programmable lighting switch for a lighting environment which may include various alternative lighting settings or sequences which may be selected by an individual through the toggling of a switch having a standard appearance.

The art referred to and/or described above is not intended to constitute an admission that any patent, publication or other information referred to herein is “prior art” with respect to this invention. In addition, this section should not be construed to mean that a search has been made or that no other pertinent information as defined in 37 C.F.R. §1.56(a) exists.

All U.S. patents and applications and all other published documents mentioned anywhere in this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Without limiting the scope of the invention, a brief description of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodiments of the invention may be found in the Detailed Description of the Invention below.

A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification is provided for the purposes of complying with 37 C.F.R. §1.72.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In some embodiments a light switch will be in communication with a programmable device to provide a user with a plurality of options for light settings or sequences within a lighting environment.

In some embodiments, the light switch is in communication with a light fixture having light emitting diode or other types of light sources.

In at least one embodiment, the light switch is in communication with a light emitting diode light fixture having light emitting diode light sources and at least one photodetector providing for the transmission and receipt of pulsed light communication signals.

In some embodiments the light fixture is in communication with a power control unit having a controller, processor, or microprocessor having memory for storage of a plurality of different illumination settings or sequences for a lighting environment.

In some embodiments, the power control unit and/or controller, processor or microprocessor is in communication with a remotely located computer having a website, where the website is utilized to establish customized illumination settings or sequences for a lighting environment for storage within the memory of the controller, processor, or microprocessor, which in turn is in communication with, or integral to, the power control unit.

In at least one embodiment the visible light or embedded pulsed light communications may be comprised of a plurality of rapid flashes of light having a frequency which is not observable or detectable by the unaided eyes of an individual, where the rapid flashes of light may be organized into data packets and/or communications. In addition, the wavelength of the visible light is not in the infrared spectrum which may cause physical damage to an individual's eyes.

In some embodiments a software application, which is used to create customized illumination settings or sequences, may be downloaded onto a computer or server. The server may be located within a desired environment or remotely located relative to the light fixtures providing illumination within an environment. In some embodiments, the software application may be downloaded onto an electronic device, computer or server over the global telecommunications network or Internet.

In some embodiments, a facility administrator or individual may access a website to create customized illumination settings or sequences for a designated location within a lighting environment. An individual located within an adjacent space to the lighting environment may also access the website to create customized illumination settings or sequences for an alternative designated location.

In some embodiments, the light fixtures within a designated space will each include a unique identifier which may be utilized to create customized illumination settings within a lighting environment. In some alternative embodiments the controller, processor, or microprocessor may include memory where the unique identifier will be stored in memory. The unique identifier may include information and/or data representative of the location of the individual light fixtures within a lighting environment.

In some embodiments, the facility administrator or individual may activate previously customized illumination settings or sequences which have been stored on the controller, processor, or microprocessor by toggling a light switch.

In some embodiments, a switch, such as a light switch, may be in communication with the controller, processor, or microprocessor of a power control unit to activate or deactivate various types of programs representative of illumination settings or sequences which may be identified for example as Program A, B, or C.

In some embodiments, Program A and Program B represent customized and preset illumination configurations for one or more LED light panels or individual LEDs within an LED light panel within a desired location within a lighting environment.

In some embodiments, an individual may access a webpage in order to control individual LEDs and/or one or more LED light panels within a select lighting environment.

In at least one embodiment, a webpage on a computer or a server may be manipulated to initiate the transmission of control signals to activate or deactivate one or more of the customized illumination programs.

In at least one embodiment, illumination Program A may define a preset or pre-established customized illumination configuration for individual LEDs or LED light panels within a lighting environment.

In at least one embodiment, illumination Program A and/or illumination Program B may represent any setting, sequence, or configuration of illumination and/or color of illumination for a lighting environment.

In at least one embodiment, illumination Program A may represent a setting where the LEDs are providing illumination at a level which is decreased by 50% from a fully on, or a maximum illumination setting.

In some embodiments, a switch may be used to alternate between customized illumination programs. The switch may include actuating elements to return the switch to an initial or neutral position following manipulation or toggling of a switch to activate an illumination setting or sequence.

In some embodiments, the manipulation of the switch in an upward direction, and the subsequent release of the switch, when the LED light sources and/or LED light panels within a lighting environment are operating at 100% capacity, will toggle the LED light sources and/or LED light panels between illumination Program A and illumination Program B.

In some embodiments, the manipulation of the switch in a downward direction, and the subsequent release of the switch, when the LED light sources and/or LED light panels within a lighting environment are operating at 100% capacity, will turn all or a portion of the LEDs light sources and/or LED light panels off

In some embodiments, the manipulation of the light switch in an upward direction, and the subsequent release of the light switch, will turn all or a portion of the LED light sources and/or LED light panels on to a fully operable position, or alternatively, to one of the customized pre-set illumination programs such as illumination Program A and/or illumination Program B.

In some embodiments, an individual may manipulate and hold the switch upwardly, which in turn may incrementally increase the illumination from one or more of the LED light sources and/or LED light panels to increase illumination within a lighting environment.

In an alternative embodiment, an individual once the LED light sources or LED light panels have been illuminated, may manipulate and hold the switch in a downward direction, which in turn will incrementally decrease the illumination of the LED light sources and/or LED light panels within the lighting environment.

In an alternative embodiment, an individual may subsequently manipulate the switch in an upwardly direction, and release the switch, which will return the illumination level for the LED light sources and/or LED light panels to a customized preprogrammed illumination setting or sequence such as the illumination levels established for either illumination Program A and/or illumination Program B.

In some embodiments illumination Program B will provide a different level, setting, or sequence of illumination as compared to illumination Program A within a designated lighting environment.

In some embodiments if an LED light panel is used within a classroom environment, a teacher may communicate to students that a movie or video presentation will be shown, whereupon the teacher may toggle the light switch to alternate the LEDs and/or LED light panels within the classroom from a pre-set illumination Program A configuration of full illumination to a pre-set configuration of illumination Program B, where the LEDs and/or LED light panels are providing illumination at less than 50% of full illumination. In some embodiments illumination Program B will represent a preset illumination setting for presentation of videos and/or movies.

In some embodiments either illumination Program A or illumination Program B may represent full illumination, and the other program may represent an alternative illumination level for an environment.

In some embodiments illumination Program B may represent a three-quarter setting for illumination as compared to illumination Program A. In some embodiments the illumination setting for illumination Program A is an increment of the illumination as provided by illumination Program B.

In some embodiments the toggling of the switch in an upward direction will increase the illumination setting between illumination Program A and illumination Program B, providing an increased level of illumination for an area within a facility.

Alternatively, in some embodiments the toggling of the switch in a downward direction will decrease the illumination between illumination Program A and illumination Program B, providing a decreased level of illumination for an area within a facility.

Alternatively, in some embodiments the toggling of the switch in a downward direction and holding the switch in a downward direction will incrementally and continuously decrease illumination for an area within a facility.

Alternatively, in some embodiments the toggling of the switch in an upward direction and holding the switch in an upward direction will incrementally and continuously increase the illumination for an area within a facility.

In some embodiments the toggling of a switch in an upward direction will turn the LEDs and/or LED light panels on. In some alternative embodiments the toggling of the switch in a downward direction will turn the LEDs and/or the LED light panels off

In some embodiments a preset illumination Program A will establish an illumination level, weather dim or bright, and/or color of individual LEDs or LED light panels, in any configuration as desired. For example, illumination Program A may represent the illumination level of morning sunshine on a partially cloudy day. Illumination Program B may represent the illumination level of afternoon sunshine of a mostly cloudy day. In addition, the color of the LEDs within the LED light panels may be adjusted from warm to cool, or from yellow to blue, as desired for a particular environmental setting.

In some embodiments preset illumination Program A may only illuminate one LED light panel while preset illumination Program B may illuminate all LED light panels within a given area.

In some embodiments a mainframe computer is utilized to run one or more LED light panels. In some embodiments each power distribution unit may control up to 16 LED light panels. Each power distribution unit may operate between 120 and 277 V. In some embodiments each LED light panel is operating on 48 V.

In some embodiments, each LED light system may include a power unit controller which may control power distribution units. The power unit controllers may also meter and record the electricity being used by the LED light system. In some embodiments the power unit controllers transmit the recorded and/or metered amount of electricity being used by the LED light system to another server.

In some embodiments each LED light fixture may include an optical transceiver which may be identified as a Charlie unit. Each Charlie unit may include a photodetector, microphone, speaker, and/or camera. In some embodiments each Charlie unit may be programmed to provide communications such as telephone communications without the use of a telephone, where the communications are transmitted via pulsed light embedded LED light signals. The light signal transmissions may pass through a PBX unit.

In some embodiments an individual may become a customer of pulsed light communication and data transfer services by downloading of software onto an electronic device or incorporation of LED light panels within a facility. Each controller for a Charlie unit may also include facial and/or other biometric recognition software to facilitate communication over an embedded pulsed LED light network and/or system.

In a first alternative embodiment, a lighting system comprises a light fixture emitting illumination and a light switch in communication with the light fixture, the light switch having an actuator member, a controller in communication with the light switch, and a website in communication with the controller, the website communicating to the controller a plurality of illumination settings, the illumination settings comprising an initial illumination level, a pre-set illumination level, an incremental increase illumination level, an incremental decrease illumination level, and a termination of illumination, where manipulation of the actuator changes an illumination setting for the illumination emitted from the light fixture.

In a second alternative embodiment according to the first embodiment, the illumination settings further comprise a second pre-set illumination level.

In a third alternative embodiment according to the second embodiment, the controller comprises memory, the memory comprising the plurality of illumination settings.

In a fourth alternative embodiment according to the third embodiment, the memory comprises a light fixture identifier.

In a fifth alternative embodiment according to the fourth embodiment, the actuator member has an initial operative position, an activation and release operative position, and an activation and hold operative position.

In a sixth alternative embodiment according to the fifth embodiment, the activation and release operative position changes the illumination setting.

In a seventh alternative embodiment according to the sixth embodiment, the activation and hold operative position changes the illumination setting.

In an eighth alternative embodiment according to the seventh embodiment, the light fixture comprises light emitting diodes and an optical transceiver comprising a photodetector.

In a ninth alternative embodiment according to the eighth embodiment, the optical transceiver is constructed and arranged to provide pulsed light communication embedded within light in the visible spectrum.

In a tenth alternative embodiment, a lighting system comprises a light fixture emitting illumination and a light switch in communication with the light fixture, the light switch having an actuator member, a controller in communication with the light switch and the light fixture, and a website in communication with the controller, the website communicating to the controller a plurality of illumination settings, the illumination settings comprising an initial illumination level, a first pre-set illumination level, a second pre-set illumination level, an incremental increase illumination level, an incremental decrease illumination level, and a termination of illumination, and combinations thereof, wherein manipulation of the actuator changes an illumination setting for the illumination emitted from the light fixture.

In an eleventh alternative embodiment according to the tenth alternative embodiment, the controller comprises memory, the memory comprising the plurality of illumination settings.

In a twelfth alternative embodiment according to the eleventh alternative embodiment the memory comprises a light fixture identifier.

In a thirteenth alternative embodiment according to the twelfth alternative embodiment, the actuator member has an initial operative position, an activation and release operative position, and an activation and hold operative position.

In a fourteenth alternative embodiment according to the thirteenth alternative embodiment activation and release operative position changes the illumination setting.

In a fifteenth alternative embodiment according to the fourteenth alternative embodiment the activation and hold operative position changes the illumination setting.

In a sixteenth alternative embodiment according to the fifteenth alternative embodiment the light fixture comprises light emitting diodes and an optical transceiver comprising a photodetector.

In a seventeenth alternative embodiment according to the sixteenth alternative embodiment the optical transceiver is constructed and arranged to provide pulsed light communication embedded within light in the visible spectrum.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of one alternative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 depicts a bottom environmental view of one alternative embodiment of an LED light fixture as utilized with the invention;

FIG. 3 depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch utilized in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 4 depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch utilized in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5a depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5b depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5c depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5d depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5e depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5f depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5g depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5h depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5i depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 5j depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 6a depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 6b depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 6c depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 7a depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 7b depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 7c depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 8a depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 8b depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 8c depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 8d depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 8e depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 9a depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 9b depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 9c depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 9d depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 9e depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 10a depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 10b depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 10c depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention;

FIG. 10d depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention; and

FIG. 10e depicts an isometric view of one alternative embodiment of a light switch being manipulated in the practice of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In at least one embodiment, the programmable switch and system is indicated by the numeral 10. In some embodiments as may be seen in FIG. 1, the programmable switch and system 10 includes a switch 12 which is in communication with a light fixture 14. Light fixture 14 is in communication with a controller, processor, or microprocessor 16 having memory. The controller 16 may be a portion of a power control unit 18. In some embodiments, the power control unit 18 and/or controller, processor or microprocessor 16 is in communication with a remotely located computer having a website 20, where the website 20 is utilized to establish customized illumination settings or sequences for a lighting environment for storage within the memory of the controller, processor, or microprocessor, 16.

In some embodiments, controller 16 includes any number of customized, pre-set illumination settings or sequences. For convenience, customized, pre-set illumination settings or sequences will be identified as Program A reference numeral 22, Program B reference numeral 24, and/or Program C reference numeral 26. It should be noted that any number of customized, pre-set illumination settings or sequences may be stored in memory on controller 16 as desired by an individual.

In some embodiments, as may be seen in FIG. 2, the light fixture 14 includes a cover 28 having a transparent, translucent, and/or reflective surface. Light fixture 14 may also include a plurality of light emitting diodes for LEDs 30. Further, light fixture 14 may include an optical transceiver 32. Optical transceiver 32 may be referred to as a Charlie unit. Optical transceiver 32 preferably includes a photodetector 34 and an internal controller, microprocessor, and/or processor.

In some embodiments any number of light fixtures 14 may be utilized within a lighting environment. In some embodiments the controller 16 regulates the illumination from one or any number of light fixtures 14 and/or individual light emitting diodes 30 within individual or a plurality of different light fixtures 14 to provide a customized pre-set illumination setting or sequence such as Programs A, B, and/or C.

In some embodiments, the LEDs 30 may be used to transmit both data or information, and illumination. In some embodiments the controller within the optical transceiver 32 is in electrical communication with the LEDs 30. The controller within the optical transceiver 32 may also be in communication with the controller 16 through the use of a category six cable. In some embodiments, each of the power control units 18 may be in communication with up to sixteen or more light fixtures 14. In some embodiments, each power control unit 18 meters the amount of electricity being utilized by the LEDs 30 within a particular light fixture 14. The controller 16 of the power control unit 18 also functions to interpret the functions or settings of the switch 12 which is in communication with the light fixture 14.

In some embodiments the power control unit 18 transmits the recorded and/or metered amount of electricity being used by the LED light fixtures 14 to another remote computer or server. The remote computer or server may control a plurality of power control units 18.

In some embodiments each optical transceiver 32 may additionally include a microphone, speaker, and/or camera. In some embodiments each controller 16 for an optical transceiver 32 may also include facial and/or other biometric recognition software to facilitate communication over an embedded pulsed LED light communication network and/or system. In some embodiments each optical transceiver 32 may provide communications, such as telephone communications, without the use of a telephone, where the communication is transmitted via pulsed light embedded LED light communication signals. The light communication signal transmissions may also pass through a PBX unit.

In some embodiments, an individual may become a customer of pulsed light communication and data transfer services by downloading software onto an electronic device (which may be a cellular telephone for example) and carrying the electronic device into a transmission/reception area which incorporates the use of LED light fixtures 14 within or proximate to a facility. In some embodiments, a software application, which is used to create customized illumination settings or sequences, may be downloaded onto a computer or server. The server may be located within a desired environment or remotely located relative to the light fixtures 14 providing illumination within a lighting environment. In some embodiments, the software application may be downloaded onto an electronic device, computer or server over the global telecommunications network or Internet.

In some embodiments, a facility administrator or individual may access a website 20 to create customized illumination settings or sequences for a designated location within a lighting environment. An individual located within an adjacent space to the lighting environment may also access the website 20 to create customized illumination settings or sequences for an alternative designated location.

In at least one embodiment, the light switch 12 is in communication with a light emitting diode light fixture 14 having light emitting diode light sources 30 and at least one photodetector 34 providing for the transmission and receipt of pulsed light communication signals. In at least one embodiment the visible light or embedded pulsed light communications may be comprised of a plurality of rapid flashes of light having a frequency which is not observable or detectable by the unaided eyes of an individual, where the rapid flashes of light may be organized into data packets and/or communications. In addition, the wavelength of the visible light is not in the infrared spectrum, which may cause physical damage to an individual's eyes.

In some embodiments each controller 16 for an optical transceiver 32 may also include facial and/or other biometric recognition software to facilitate communication over an embedded pulsed LED light network and/or system.

In some embodiments the remote computer or server, which is in communication with one or more power control units 18, may perform an accounting function.

In some embodiments, as may be seen in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, a switch 12 is shown. Switch 12 preferably includes an actuator 36 which may be toggled upwardly or downwardly in a vertical direction. Switch 12 preferably includes one or more positioning elements which return the actuator 36 to a central at rest position relative to the actuator slot 38, after the actuator 36 has been toggled upwardly or downwardly within the actuator slot 38 and released by an individual.

In at least one alternative embodiment, the switch 12 is used to activate various types of customized pre-set illumination settings or sequences which have been previously identified as Program A reference numeral 22, program B reference numeral 24 and/or Program C reference numeral 26. Program A 22, Program B 24, and/or Program C 26 may be used to activate one or more of the customized pre-set illumination settings or sequences for one or more light fixtures 14 or individual light emitting diodes 30 within individual light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments an individual may access a webpage 20 on a computer which controls individual LEDs 30 and/or one or more LED light fixtures 14 within a designated illumination environment. The computer via the webpage 20 may control the illumination from the LED light sources 30 and/or the LED light fixtures 14 for activation of a desired program such as Program A 22 within an illumination environment. In some embodiments, Program A 22 and/or Program B 24 may be configured to provide any desired type and/or color of illumination within a lighting environment.

In at least one embodiment, Program A 22 may be a pre-set illumination configuration where the LEDs 30 are providing illumination at a level which is decreased by 50% from a fully on, or the maximum illumination level within a lighting environment. In some embodiments, the manipulation of the actuator 36 in an upward direction after the lights are already on, will toggle the LED light sources 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 between Program A 22 and Program B 24.

In some embodiments the manipulation of the actuator 36 in a downward direction after the lights are already on, will turn all or a portion of the LEDs 30 and/or LED fixtures 14 off

In some embodiments the manipulation of the actuator 36 in an upward direction will turn all or a portion of the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 on to a fully operable position, or alternatively to one of the pre-set programs such as Program A 22 and/or Program B 24.

In some embodiments an individual may hold the actuator 36, which has been previously manipulated upwardly, which in turn will continuously and incrementally increase the illumination from one or more of the LED light sources 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 to increase illumination within a designated illumination environment. The incremental increase in illumination will continue until such time as the actuator 36 has been released, for return to its central at rest position.

In an alternative embodiment, an individual may hold the actuator 36 in a downward direction once the LEDs 30 or LED light fixtures 14 have been illuminated, which in turn, will incrementally decrease the illumination of the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14. The incremental decrease in illumination will continue until such time as the actuator 36 has been released, for return to its central at rest position.

In an alternative embodiment, subsequent to the reduction in illumination, an individual may toggle the actuator 36 in an upward direction which will return the illumination level for the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 to one of the pre-programmed settings such as Program A 22 and/or Program B 24. In some embodiments Program B 24 activates the light fixtures 14 to provide a different illumination setting as compared to Program A 22.

In some embodiments, if an LED light fixture 14 is used within a classroom environment, a teacher may communicate to students that a movie or video presentation will be shown, whereupon the teacher may toggle the actuator 36 to alternate the illumination from the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 within the classroom from a pre-set Program A 22 configuration of full illumination, to a pre-set configuration of Program B 24 where the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 are providing illumination at less than 50% of full illumination. In some embodiments Program B 24 will represent a pre-set illumination setting for presentation of videos and/or movies.

In some embodiments either Program A 22 or Program B 24 may represent full illumination, and the other program may represent an alternative illumination level for a lighting environment. In some embodiments Program B 24 may represent a 75% illumination setting as compared to Program A.

In some embodiments the illumination setting for Program A 22 is an increment of the illumination setting as provided by Program B 24. In some embodiments, the toggling of the actuator 36 in an upward direction will increase the illumination setting between Program A 22 and Program B 24 providing an increased level of illumination for a lighting environment. Alternatively, in some embodiments the toggling of the actuator 36 in a downward direction will decrease the illumination between Program A 22 and Program B 24 providing a decreased level of illumination for a lighting environment.

Alternatively, in some embodiments the toggling of the actuator 36 in a downward direction, and holding the actuator 36 in a downward direction, will incrementally and continuously decrease illumination for a lighting environment. In some embodiments the toggling of the actuator 36 in an upward direction, and holding the actuator 36 in an upward direction, will incrementally and continuously increase the illumination for a lighting environment.

In some embodiments the toggling of the actuator 36 in an upward direction will turn the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 on. In some alternative embodiments the toggling of the actuator 36 in a downward direction will turn the LEDs 30 and/or the LED light fixtures 14 off In some alternative embodiments toggling the actuator 36 in an upward direction subsequent to the illumination of the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 will result in a change of illumination generated from the LEDs 30 and/or LED light fixtures 14 from pre-set Program A 22 to pre-set Program B 24.

In some embodiments, pre-set Program A 22 may establish an illumination level, weather dim or bright, and/or color, for the individual LEDs 30 or LED light fixtures 14 in any configuration as desired by an individual.

In some embodiments, Program A 22 may represent the illumination level and color of morning sunshine on a partially cloudy day. Program B 24 may represent the illumination level and color of afternoon sunshine of a mostly cloudy day. In addition, the color of the LEDs 30 within the LED light fixtures 14 may be adjusted from warm colored light to cool colored light, or from yellow to blue, as desired for a particular lighting environmental.

In some embodiments Program A 22 may represent the illumination of one or more LED light fixtures 14 within a first area where Program B represents the illumination of more or less LED light fixtures 14 within the identical area. Therefore, pre-set Program A 22 may in some embodiments, only illuminate one LED light fixture 14 while pre-set Program B 24 may illuminate all LED light fixtures 14 within a given lighting environment.

In some embodiments a light switch 12 will be in communication with a programmable device to provide a user with a plurality of options for light settings or sequences within a lighting environment.

In some embodiments, the light switch 12 is in communication with a light fixture 14 having light emitting diode 30 or other types of light sources. An individual is not restricted to the use of LED's 30 herein.

In some embodiments, the light fixtures 14 within a designated space will each include a unique identifier which may be utilized to create customized illumination settings or sequences within a lighting environment. In some alternative embodiments the unique identifier will be stored in memory of the controller 16. The unique identifier may include information and/or data representative of the location of the individual light fixtures 14 or light sources 30 within a lighting environment.

In some embodiments as depicted in 5a, a switch 12 is shown with the actuator 36 in an initial central position relative to actuator slot 38. In FIG. 5a no illumination is being generated by the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments arrow 40 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 5b, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in an upward direction within actuator slot 38. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in an upward direction is identified by arrow 42. Following the toggling and immediate release of the actuator 36 in an upward direction, a return mechanism (not shown) will impart downward motion to the actuator 36, returning the actuator 36 to a centralized position within the actuator slot 38.

In some embodiments arrow 44 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 5c. FIG. 5c shows the switch 12 in a central position following the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in an upward direction 42. In FIG. 5c the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14 are fully illuminated to emit 100% illumination as identified by reference numeral 46. The initial toggling and release of the actuator 36 in an upward direction 42 has altered the state of the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 from being off, to 100% illumination level 46.

In some embodiments arrow 48 depicts a subsequent manipulation of actuator 36 as shown in FIG. 5d. In FIG. 5d, once the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14 are emitting 100% illumination 46, the actuator 36 may be manipulated upwardly and released as depicted by arrow 42. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in an upward direction 42, following the full illumination 46 of the LEDs 30 or light fixtures 14, will trigger the initiation of one of the pre-set illumination programs such as Program A 22.

In some embodiments arrow 50 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 5e, and a change in the amount of illumination generated by the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14. In FIG. 5e, the return mechanism has manipulated the actuator 36 to a central position. The toggling and release 42 of the actuator 36 in an upward direction 42 once full illumination has been established, will initiate Program A 22, which in one embodiment will trigger the controller 16 to reduce illumination emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 to a 50% level as identified by reference numeral 52.

In some embodiments arrow 54 depicts a subsequent manipulation of actuator 36 as shown in FIG. 5f and a change in the amount of illumination generated by the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14. In FIG. 5f, the actuator 36 has been toggled in an upward direction and released 42, returning the actuator 36 to a central position of FIG. 5g.

In some embodiments arrow 56 depicts the subsequent illumination level and transition from pre-set Program A 22 to pre-set Program B 24. FIG. 5g depicts a decrease of illumination resulting from the initiation of Program B 24 in substitution for Program A 22. In FIG. 5g, the actuator 36 has been toggled in an upward direction and released 42, returning the actuator 36 to a central position. The toggling of the actuator 36 will implement the initiation of Program B 24, which in one embodiment will trigger the controller 16 to reduce illumination emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 to a level of 25% of full illumination as identified by reference numeral 58.

In some embodiments arrow 60 depicts a subsequent elevation of actuator 36. In FIG. 5h the actuator 36 has been toggled in an upward direction and maintained in an upward direction as depicted by arrow 62.

In some embodiments arrow 64 depicts an incremental increase or gain in illumination from the pre-set illumination level 58 of Program B 24. In FIG. 5i, the actuator 36 has been held 62 in an upward direction until a desired illumination level has been acquired, whereupon the actuator 36 will be released as depicted by arrow 66. For example, the actuator 36 may be released when an illumination level of 65%, as identified by reference numeral 68, has been obtained. The return of the actuator 36 to a central position is depicted in FIG. 5j.

In some embodiments as depicted in 6a, switch 12 is shown with the actuator 36 in an initial central position relative to actuator slot 38. In FIG. 6a, 100% illumination, reference numeral 46, is being generated by the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments arrow 70 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 6b, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in a downward direction 72 within actuator slot 38. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction is identified by arrow 72. Following the toggling and immediate release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72, a return mechanism (not shown) will impart upward motion to the actuator 36, returning the actuator 36 to a centralized position within the actuator slot 38.

In some embodiments arrow 74 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 6c. FIG. 6c shows the switch 12 in a central position following the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72. In FIG. 6c the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14 have been turned off to generate no illumination as identified by reference numeral 76. The initial toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72 has altered the state of the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 from being fully on 46 to off 76.

In some embodiments as depicted in 7a, switch 12 is shown with the actuator 36 in an initial central position relative to actuator slot 38. In FIG. 7a, 100% illumination, reference numeral 46, is being generated by the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments arrow 78 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 7b, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in a downward direction within actuator slot 38. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction is identified by arrow 72. Following the toggling and immediate release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72, a return mechanism (not shown) will impart upward motion to the actuator 36, returning the actuator 36 to a centralized position within the actuator slot 38.

In some embodiments arrow 80 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 7c. FIG. 7c shows the switch 12 in a central position following the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72. In FIG. 7c, once the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14 are emitting 100% illumination 46, the actuator 36 may be manipulated downwardly and released as depicted by arrow 72. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72 will trigger the initiation of one of the pre-set illumination programs such as Program A 22.

In some embodiments arrow 80 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 7c, and a change in the amount of illumination generated by the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14. In FIG. 7c the initiation of Program A 22, will trigger the controller 16 to reduce illumination emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 to a 50% level as identified by reference numeral 52.

In some embodiments as depicted in 8a, switch 12 is shown with the actuator 36 in an initial central position relative to actuator slot 38. In FIG. 7a, 100% illumination, reference numeral 46, is being generated by the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments arrow 82 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 8b, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in a downward direction within actuator slot 38. The toggling and holding of the actuator 36 in a downward direction is identified by arrow 84.

In some embodiments arrow 84 also depicts an incremental decrease or dimming of illumination from the 100% illumination level 46. In FIG. 8b, the actuator 36 has been toggled and held 84 in a downward direction until a desired illumination level has been acquired, whereupon the actuator 36 will be released. For example, the actuator 36 may be released when an illumination level of 15% has been obtained, as identified by reference numeral 88. The return of the actuator 36 to a central position is depicted in FIG. 8c. The change in the illumination level emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 between FIGS. 8a and 8c is depicted by arrow 86.

In some embodiments arrow 90 depicts a subsequent manipulation of actuator 36 as shown in FIG. 8d. In FIG. 8d, once the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14 are emitting for example 15% illumination 88, the actuator 36 may be manipulated upwardly and released as depicted by arrow 42. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in an upward direction 42 will trigger the initiation of one of the pre-set illumination programs such as Program A 22 or Program B 24, and a corresponding illumination level of 50%, reference numeral 52, or 25%, reference numeral 58, respectively.

In some embodiments arrow 92 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 8e, and a change in the amount of illumination generated by the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14. In FIG. 8e, the actuator 36 has been toggled in an upward direction and released 42, and the return mechanism has manipulated the actuator 36 to a central position. The toggling and release 42 of the actuator 36 in an upward direction, once any desired illumination level has been established, will initiate a pre-set program such as either Program A 22 or Program B 24, which in one embodiment will trigger the controller 16 to increase illumination emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments as depicted in 9a, switch 12 is shown with the actuator 36 in an initial central position relative to actuator slot 38. In FIG. 9a, 100% illumination, reference numeral 46, is being generated by the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments arrow 94 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 9b, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in a downward direction within actuator slot 38. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction is identified by arrow 72. Following the toggling and immediate release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72, a return mechanism (not shown) will impart upward motion to the actuator 36, returning the actuator 36 to a centralized position within the actuator slot 38.

In some embodiments arrow 96 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 9c. FIG. 9c shows the switch 12 in a central position following the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72. In FIG. 9c, the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72 will trigger the initiation of one of the pre-set illumination programs such as Program A 22 and will signal the controller 16 to reduce illumination emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 to a level of 50% identified by reference numeral 52.

In some embodiments arrow 98 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 9d, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in a downward direction. The toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction is identified by arrow 72. Following the toggling and immediate release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72, the actuator 36 will return to a centralized position within the actuator slot 38.

In some embodiments arrow 100 depicts a subsequent illumination level as shown in FIG. 9e. FIG. 9e shows the switch 12 in a central position following the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72. In FIG. 9e, the toggling and release of the actuator 36 in a downward direction 72 will trigger the initiation of another of the pre-set illumination programs such as Program B 24, and will signal the controller 16 to reduce illumination emitted from the light emitting diodes 30 and light fixtures 14 to a level of 25% identified by reference numeral 58.

In some embodiments as depicted in 10a, switch 12 is shown with the actuator 36 in an initial central position relative to actuator slot 38. In FIG. 10a, 100% illumination, reference numeral 46, is being generated by the light emitting diodes 30 or light fixtures 14.

In some embodiments arrow 102 depicts a subsequent position of actuator 36 of FIG. 10b, in which the actuator 36 has been toggled in a downward direction within actuator slot 38. The toggling and holding of the actuator 36 in a downward direction is identified by arrow 104.

In some embodiments arrow 106 depicts an incremental decrease or dimming of illumination from the 100% illumination level 46. In FIG. 10b, the actuator 36 has been toggled and held 104 in a downward direction until a desired illumination level has been acquired, whereupon the actuator 36 will be released. For example, the actuator 36 may be released when an illumination level of 15%, reference numeral 88 has been obtained, as identified in FIG. 10c. The return of the actuator 36 to a central position is depicted in FIG. 10c.

In some embodiments arrow 106 depicts a subsequent elevation of actuator 36. In FIG. 10d the actuator 36 has been toggled in an upward direction and maintained in an upward direction as depicted by arrow 108.

In some embodiments arrow 110 depicts an incremental increase or gain in illumination from the illumination level 88 shown in FIG. 10c. In FIG. 10d, the actuator 36 has been toggled and held 108 in an upward direction until a desired illumination level has been acquired, whereupon the actuator 36 will be released as shown in FIG. 10e. For example, the actuator 36 may be released when an illumination level of 85%, as identified by reference numeral 112, has been obtained.

It should be noted that in initial illumination level of 100% is not required, and the initial illumination level may be in the amount of light as desired by an individual.

In some embodiments, any upward toggling and release, upward toggling and holding, downward toggling and release, and downward toggling and holding may be applied to actuator 36 in any combination, in order to provide a desired pre-set illumination level, and that the examples identified herein have been provided for illustrative purposes only and are not restrictive of the number or Programs or the values of illumination which may be selected at website 20 for storage into controller 16.

In some alternative embodiments, an individual may utilize website 20 to establish a timed or sequenced illumination program on controller 16. For example, a teacher in an elementary school setting may access website in order to create a sequenced pre-set program where the light emitting diodes 30 and/or light fixtures 14 will turn off for a period of time of 1 to 2 seconds, at five minutes before every new hour during a school day. The termination of illumination from the light emitting diodes 30 and/or light fixtures 14 will signal to students that the current projects are to be completed and educational items returned to storage in preparation for the next lesson which will begin on the next hour of the school day. A teacher will therefore not be required to be continuously marshaling time and may devote more attention to the student's educational needs.

In an alternative embodiment, each teacher within a school may access website 20 in order to individually customize a classroom setting with any desired number of pre-set illumination programs on controller 16.

In an alternative embodiment, a school administrator may access website 20 in order to override any individual classroom pre-set illumination program on controller 16, where the school administrator has selected a pre-set sequence of illumination flashes as a program on controller 16, to signal a security situation for teachers to close and lock classroom doors until such time as the security situation has been resolved. Alternatively, a school administrator may access website 20 in order to override any individual classroom pre-set illumination programs on controller 16 to signal a schoolwide assembly.

In some embodiments, computer or server hosting websites 20 will include timing, date, calendar, and/or other features to assist in the establishment of pre-set illumination programs for any individual light emitting diode 30, combination of light emitting diodes 30, individual light fixture 14, or combination of light fixtures 14 in any combination.