Magnetically programmable remote switch controller
First Claim
1. A control unit for operating at least one switch comprising a controller placed inside an environmentally protective enclosure having at least one embedded program stored therein for controlling the at least one switch, at least one magnetically operable switch electrically connected to said controller and located inside said enclosure that is capable of being triggered by a magnet on the outside of said enclosure when said magnet is brought into the conductive proximity of said at least one magnetically operable switch, and a hand held magnet for triggering said at least one magnetically operable switch.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A simple battery powered programmable remote switch or valve controller is provided that may be sealed inside an environmentally protective enclosure after receiving initial programming. One or more magnetically operable switches electrically connected to said controller are provided inside the enclosure and are capable of being triggered by a magnet on the outside of the enclosure when the magnet is brought into conductive proximity. As a result, initiating programmed operations, performing maintenance functions, changing settings, or interrogating the controller may all be accomplished using a simple magnet without opening the controller enclosure.
49 Citations
12 Claims
- 1. A control unit for operating at least one switch comprising a controller placed inside an environmentally protective enclosure having at least one embedded program stored therein for controlling the at least one switch, at least one magnetically operable switch electrically connected to said controller and located inside said enclosure that is capable of being triggered by a magnet on the outside of said enclosure when said magnet is brought into the conductive proximity of said at least one magnetically operable switch, and a hand held magnet for triggering said at least one magnetically operable switch.
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4. A method for activating at least one imbedded program stored in a controller comprising the steps of:
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a. bringing a magnet into conductive proximity with at least one magnetically operable switch in said controller;
b. performing an activation sequence using said magnet to initiate a selected embedded program of said controller. - View Dependent Claims (5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. A method for operating a dormant remotely-located battery-powered controller having at least one embedded program stored therein comprising the steps of:
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a. initially programming the controller;
b. placing the controller in an environmentally protective enclosure that is made of material which allows the transmission of a magnetic field therethrough;
c. bringing a magnet into conductive proximity with at least one magnetically operable switch in said controller to awaken said dormant controller; and
d. thereafter performing an activation sequence using said magnet to initiate a selected embedded program of said controller. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12)
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Specification