Patent ID: 10219353

Abstract:
A Z-wave controlled smart switch for multi-way switch circuits can be either an on/off switch or a dimmer switch. The Z-wave switch connects through two travelers to each of the fixed contacts of the remote switch. Depending on the position of the remote switch, the Z-wave switch alternately directs the line AC voltage, or dimmed line voltage, to either of the fixed contacts of the remote switch through either of two parallel hot terminals. The direction of AC voltage through the Z-wave switch is controlled by the Z-wave module through a relay or by bidirectional TRIACs or anti-series FETs. The Z-wave switch is operative to fully control the state of the load in any multi-way system regardless of the state of the remote switches and without replacing or rewiring the remote switches. The Z-wave module also uniquely integrates the smart switch microcontroller and RF communications functions in one unit and leverages the superior connectivity capabilities of the Z-wave technology.