LIGHT SWITCH USED AS A COMMUNICATION DEVICE
First Claim
1. A control device comprising:
- a control element having a native control function for controlling at least one managed device remote from said control device in response to a first user provided action;
a communications control element for providing communication features in response to a second user provided action; and
control operable for switching said control device between said native control element and said communications control element.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
The present invention is directed to systems and methods which permit a light switch or other control device to operate as a communications device as well as a switch. The light switch or other control device is mounted or otherwise attached to a wail and is capable of operating alternatively in, or in coordination with, at least two separate modes. The first mode is typically a power control mode and the second mode is a communications mode. In the power control mode the light switch can operate singularly or call communicate through a remote controller with a light or electrical outlet to turn on/off the light or outlet. In the communications mode the user speaks into the switch and receives responses at the switch. The transmission of this device communication is handled internal to the switch or by the remote controller.
24 Citations
29 Claims
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1. A control device comprising:
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a control element having a native control function for controlling at least one managed device remote from said control device in response to a first user provided action; a communications control element for providing communication features in response to a second user provided action; and control operable for switching said control device between said native control element and said communications control element. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16)
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17. A method of controlling a power switch, said method comprising:
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receiving a command corresponding to a selected mode of operation of said power switch; and performing a function corresponding to an accepted command in response to a user provided action, said command relating to at least one of;
controlling power;
a communication operation mode. - View Dependent Claims (18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24)
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25. A power control device comprising:
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means for selecting either a power control function or a communication function; means for accepting from a user a desired action pertaining to a selected function; and means for transmitting an indication of said accepted action to a remote location. - View Dependent Claims (26, 27, 28, 29)
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Specification