Vantage Controls, Inc.

Legrand Home Systems, Inc.

Legrand North America, LLC

Douglas E Allen

Paul T Clegg

Wallace E Day

James Beagley

Jared Lemke

Jon Erik Knabenschuh

Michelle Chatterton

Scott C Losee

David Earl James

Jared Meiners

Scott Chandler

Michael Whatcott

David Smith

The present disclosure provides improved dimming or dimmer assemblies/modules for controlling lights or loads (e.g., as part of a control or automation system). More particularly, the present disclosure provides for systems and methods for utilizing dimmer control assemblies/modules advantageously having: (i) an adjustable output response, (ii) enhanced thermal management, (iii) a voltage detector to determine amplitude and zero-crossing, and/or (iv) an estimation of power consumption for multiple loads (e.g., using a single sensor).

Dimming control including an adjustable output response

Assemblies, systems, and methods which prolong relay life by dynamically compensating the make and break contact timing between the contact points of the relay and a zero crossing point of the power supply's waveform are provided according to the present disclosure. The life cycle of the relay components are dramatically increased through the use of these assemblies, systems, and methods due to a decrease in arcing and other physically damaging phenomena between the contacts of the relay. The present disclosure also provides for assemblies, systems, and methods whereby a processor analyzes the inductive kickback effect in the relay load voltage signal and dynamically adjust the relay open time such that the inductive kickback effect is minimized. In exemplary embodiments, the systems/methods provided herein advantageously adjust the relay open time such that the relay switching time corresponds with current zero cross and do so without requiring complicated current monitoring components.

Current zero cross switching relay module using a voltage monitor

An integrated controller for complete automation with the ability to control electrical devices through both RF transmission and IR transmissions. In one illustrative embodiment, the integrated controller comprises an antenna for two-way communication with stations located throughout a structure. Each station may control the power supply to an attached electrical device. The buttons on the station may control any electrical device on the system through RF transmission with the integrated controller. The integrated controller also may comprise an IR receiver and at least one IR output. The IR receiver may receive signals from a remote and pass them through to a device, such as a device used in a home theater system, with a built in IR receiver via the IR output. In this manner, the integrated controller is capable of providing complete in home automation.

Automation and theater control system

A configurable switch matrix assembly with button assembly is disclosed for keypads used in devices such as primary control points for automation systems in homes vehicles, or commercial environments. The configurable switch matrix assembly preferably includes a frame for supporting a plurality of positionable cross members and optionally a baffle. The cross members and frame each preferably include cantilevers which can be deflected by pressing the button assemblies to activate switches associated with the keypad. Dynamic status lights and back lights may provide illumination of varying colors and intensities. Button labels may be easily replaced in the button assemblies. Button assemblies of different sizes and shapes may be easily attached to the configurable switch matrix assembly in various configurations without the need for different attaching devices for each situation and/or environment.

Button assembly with status indicator and programmable backlighting

Growing community of inventors

Orem, UT, United States of America

Douglas E Allen