Patent ID: 8242708
Filing Date: 2012-08-14
Classification: H05B,Y02B

Abstract:
1. A multiple location load control system for controlling an amount of power delivered to an electrical load from an AC power source, the system comprising: a main load control device comprising a bidirectional semiconductor switch adapted to be coupled in series electrical connection between the AC power source and the electrical load for controlling the amount of power delivered to the electrical load, the main load control device operable to conduct a load current from the AC power source to the electrical load, the main load control device comprising a receiver for receiving digital messages, the main load control device operable to control the amount of power delivered to the electrical load in response to the received digital messages; and a remote load control device adapted to be coupled in series electrical connection with the main load control device between the AC power source and the electrical load, such that the remote load control device is operable to conduct the load current from the AC power source to the electrical load, the remote load control device comprising a power supply operable to charge from the AC power source through the main load control device during a first time period of a half-cycle of the AC power source, the remote load control device further comprising a transmitter for transmitting digital messages; wherein the receiver of the main load control device and the transmitter of the remote load control device are coupled together so as to form a communication path, such that the transmitter of the remote load control device is operable to transmit at least a portion of a digital message to the receiver of the main load control device during a second time period of the half-cycle.