DESC:4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the Invention

This invention pertains to the domain of electrical appliances, with a focus on ceiling fans. It specifically introduces a ceiling fan equipped with an illuminating ring designed to facilitate control through the utilization of both Infrared (IR) and Radio Frequency (RF) signals.

Background of the Invention

In the realm of household appliances, few items are as ubiquitous and essential as the ceiling fan. Providing relief from sweltering summer heat and circulating air for comfort, the ceiling fan has become a staple in homes around the world. However, despite its widespread use, the control mechanisms for traditional ceiling fans have remained largely unchanged for decades. This stagnant landscape in ceiling fan control has prompted inventors to seek innovative solutions to address the limitations and challenges faced by users.

Traditional ceiling fans are typically controlled using a combination of switches, regulators, and remote controls. These control mechanisms, while functional, often suffer from several limitations that hinder their effectiveness and usability. One of the primary issues with traditional ceiling fan controls is their reliance on either infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) signals for operation. While both IR and RF technologies have their advantages, they also come with their own set of limitations.

Firstly, IR-based control systems require line-of-sight communication between the remote control and the fan's receiver unit. This means that users must be within the direct line of sight of the fan in order to operate it effectively. This limitation can be particularly cumbersome in larger rooms or spaces where obstacles may obstruct the line of sight between the remote control and the fan. Additionally, IR signals are susceptible to interference from ambient light sources, such as sunlight or fluorescent bulbs. This interference can disrupt communication between the remote control and the fan, leading to unreliable operation and frustration for users.

On the other hand, RF-based control systems offer greater flexibility and range compared to IR systems. RF signals can penetrate obstacles and walls, allowing users to control the fan from a greater distance and from different angles within a room. However, RF control systems still face challenges related to signal interference, particularly in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference.

Furthermore, traditional ceiling fan controls often lack versatility and customization options. Users are typically limited to basic functions such as adjusting fan speed and direction, with little to no ability to customize or tailor the control experience to their preferences. Given the limitations and challenges associated with traditional ceiling fan controls, there is a clear need for innovative solutions that address these issues and enhance the overall user experience. The inventors of the present invention recognized this need and set out to develop a novel control mechanism that combines the benefits of both IR and RF technologies while overcoming their respective limitations. The solution proposed by the inventors comes in the form of a multipurpose illuminated ring designed specifically for controlling ceiling fans.

This innovative device serves as both an IR transceiver and an RF receiving window means, enabling users to control the fan using either of IR or RF signals. The key feature of the illuminated ring is its integration into the structure of the ceiling fan itself. Sandwiched between the top and bottom enclosures of the fan's motor housing, the ring acts as a central hub for receiving and processing control signals. By embedding IR sensors, IR LEDs, and visible light LEDs into the motor shaft inside the fan rotor, perpendicular to the sandwiched ring, the inventors have created a versatile control mechanism that is both efficient and effective. The circular arrangement of the components ensures optimal transmission of light and reception of IR and RF signals, enhancing the overall responsiveness and reliability of the control system. One of the primary advantages of the multipurpose illuminated ring is its ability to overcome the limitations of traditional ceiling fan controls. Unlike traditional IR based systems, which require line-of-sight communication, the illuminated ring allows users to control the fan from any direction within the room. This is made possible by the ring's ability to receive RF signals, which can penetrate obstacles and walls, providing greater flexibility and convenience for users.

Furthermore, the incorporation of visible light LEDs into the ring enables users to receive feedback on their control inputs. By emitting different colors of light depending on the mode of operation, the ring provides users with visual confirmation that their commands have been received and executed. This feedback mechanism not only enhances the user experience but also helps to mitigate potential issues related to signal interference and communication errors. Another notable feature of the multipurpose illuminated ring is its programmability and customization options. The electronic components within the ring are programmable, allowing users to customize fan control functions and compatibility with different remote control protocols. This level of versatility ensures that the control system can be tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of individual users, enhancing overall satisfaction and usability.

In conclusion, the inventors of the multipurpose illuminated ring for ceiling fan control have developed a groundbreaking solution to address the limitations and challenges associated with traditional control mechanisms. By combining the benefits of IR and RF technologies in a single device, the illuminated ring offers users greater flexibility, reliability, and customization options. With its innovative design and advanced features, the multipurpose illuminated ring represents a significant advancement in the field of ceiling fan controls and is poised to revolutionize the way users interact with their ceiling fans.

Brief Summary of the Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The invention's primary objective is to provide an advanced control mechanism for ceiling fans, surmounting traditional control systems' limitations. By integrating both infrared (IR) and radio frequency (RF) technologies within a single device, the invention affords users an enhanced control range, versatility, and reliability.

A secondary objective is to improve user experience by introducing innovative features and functionalities. The multipurpose illuminated ring serves as the control nexus, enabling intuitive operation and visual feedback, thereby increasing usability and satisfaction.

This invention also offers customizable solutions, with programmable components within the illuminating ring for tailoring fan control functions and ensuring compatibility with various remote control protocols. This adaptability caters to the diverse preferences of users.

Moreover, the invention enhances the aesthetic appeal of ceiling fans. The illuminating ring, constructed from transparent or translucent materials, emits a soft glow, beautifying the environment and adding a decorative element.

The invention revolutionizes ceiling fan control by introducing a multipurpose illuminated ring, pivotal in utilizing RF technology to augment functionality and user experience. The illuminating ring is smartly placed between the fan's top and bottom enclosures, acting primarily as an RF receiver and also as an IR transceiver.

The ring efficiently receives RF signals, allowing for fan control from various directions without the line-of-sight restrictions inherent in IR systems. This RF functionality complements the IR control, enabling seamless fan operation irrespective of the user's position in the room.

The compatibility with both IR and RF frequencies ensures a smooth experience, with the transparent or translucent illuminating ring also improving the ceiling fan's visual impact. Users benefit from the customizable nature of the ring's electronic components, which provides a tailored operating experience.

In essence, by using IR or RF technologies, the ceiling fan offers unmatched convenience, versatile control options, and aesthetic enhancement. It signifies a transformative step in ceiling fan technology, making user interactions more efficient and enjoyable.

The advantages of this invention over traditional ceiling fan controls are manifold. It extends the control range, allows versatile operation through both IR and RF signal reception, improves reliability by mitigating signal interference, and offers customization through programmable components. Intuitive operation and visual feedback via the illuminating ring leverages to an enhanced user experience, and the ring's material contributes to the ceiling fan's aesthetic appeal.

In conclusion, this invention delivers a comprehensive suite of benefits: extended control range, operational versatility, reliable performance, customizable functionality, improved user experience, and aesthetic enhancement. These collectively create a superior ceiling fan control solution aligning with the modern user's needs and preferences.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig.1 illustrates an exploded isometric view of a ceiling fan, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Fig.2 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the ceiling fan rotor, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 3 illustrates an exploded front view of the ceiling fan rotor, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The present invention offers a novel approach to controlling ceiling fans via a multipurpose illuminated ring, which integrates both radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) technologies. This description outlines the invention's components, their functions, and the resultant benefits, emphasizing its adaptability, reliability, and enhanced control features.

Ceiling fans are indispensable in providing comfort by circulating air in residential and commercial settings. However, the range, reliability, and adaptability of traditional fan control mechanisms, such as switches and remotes, often fall short. Addressing these challenges, this invention introduces the multipurpose illuminated ring, a device crafted to enrich user experience and surmount traditional constraints. The integration of IR and RF technologies within a unified system furnishes users with expanded control range, heightened reliability, and greater flexibility, transforming the paradigm of ceiling fan operation.

The heart of this system is the illuminating ring, which is adeptly incorporated within the fan's structure, cradled between the motor housing's top and bottom enclosures. The ring acts simultaneously as an IR transceiver for direct signal communication and an RF receiver for broader signal reception. Accommodating a LED strip holder, the PCB rounds out the design, supporting the LED strip.

Strategically embedded in the ring are IR receiver modules and LEDs. These are meticulously positioned to maximize the transmission of light and the reception of RF signals. The IR modules are tasked with picking up IR frequencies from remote controls, while the LEDs provide both visual feedback and ambient illumination. The ingenuity of the design is furthered by the PCB's programmable electronics, which permit customization of the fan's control functionalities and adapt to different remote control protocols.

In terms of functionality, the illuminated ring delivers a diverse array of control options and feedback systems. With an IR remote, the ring receives IR signals, allowing users to tweak fan settings within a direct line of sight, triggering actions like speed adjustments or power toggles. In the case of RF operation, the ring's colored light emissions serve as communication feedback, informing users of successful signal processing and enabling control beyond visual range or physical barriers.

This multipurpose ring's versatility is not limited to functional aspects; its aesthetic contribution is also noteworthy. Constructed from materials that are either transparent or translucent, the ring enhances the visual appeal of the ceiling fan by casting a soft illumination around the room. This not only serves the practical purpose of confirming user inputs through color-coded feedback but also contributes to the fan's decorative effect.

In summary, the present invention's illuminated ring serves as a versatile control interface, offering a significant upgrade over traditional ceiling fan controls by incorporating both IR and RF capabilities. This advancement facilitates a more intuitive and flexible user experience, granting the ability to adjust fan settings through multiple signal pathways and providing visual feedback for operations. By marrying functionality with an aesthetically pleasing design, the illuminated ring sets a new benchmark for ceiling fan technology.

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The terms "including," "comprising," and "having," along with their variations, are intended to cover the listed items and their equivalents, as well as additional items. The articles "a" and "an" do not imply a limitation of quantity but indicate the presence of at least one of the referenced items. The use of ordinal terms such as "first," "second," and "third" is for differentiation purposes only and does not imply any specific order, quantity, or importance.

According to an exemplary embodiment of this invention, a ceiling fan featuring a multipurpose illuminated ring is disclosed. The ceiling fan includes a top and a bottom enclosure, a transceiver module, and a Printed Circuit Board (PCB).

In this exemplary embodiment, the transceiver module includes a Radio Frequency (RF) receiving means, a plurality of InfraRed (IR) sensors, and InfraRed Light Emitting Diodes (IR LEDs), and visible light LEDs, embedded in the motor shaft within the ceiling fan rotor and is placed perpendicular to the illuminated ring.

The said PCB is rounded by a strip holder, is embedded with a plurality of visible Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), wherein the illuminated ring serves as a Radio Frequency (RF) reception window, positioned between the top and bottom enclosures of the ceiling fan rotor.

The ceiling fan, including the illuminated ring and the transceiver module (108), is designed to capture and transmit IR frequencies, receive RF frequencies, and provide feedback in various visible light colors based on the operation mode of the ceiling fan.

The transceiver module, which includes the IR sensors and IR LEDs on the PCB along with the visible light LEDs, is arranged in a circular pattern to ensure efficient transmission of light and reception of IR and RF signals.

The RF reception window also includes circuitry for processing the received RF signals on the PCB and initiating corresponding control actions for the fan.

The remote control system comprises a remote control device that can send IR and RF signals to the illuminated ring, allowing users to control the ceiling fan.

The illuminated ring with the PCB functions as a receiver for IR signals from the remote control, enabling users to adjust the fan settings within the line of sight.

The illuminated ring provides feedback by emitting different colors of light for RF communication, allowing users to operate the fan from any direction, even through obstacles.

The electronic components within the illuminated ring are programmable, enabling customization of fan control functions and compatibility with various remote control protocols.

The illuminated ring is made from a transparent or translucent material, allowing the emitted light from the LED lights to light up the surroundings.

The illuminated ring also acts as a notification indicator, displaying various operational states of the ceiling fan through different colors or patterns of light, each corresponding to specific fan settings or statuses.

This exemplary embodiment also discloses a method for controlling a ceiling fan equipped with a multipurpose illuminated ring. The method includes:
- transmitting Infrared (IR) and Radio Frequency (RF) signals from a remote control device to the ceiling fan;
- receiving the IR signals by the ceiling fan within the line of sight, enabling users to change the fan settings;
- emitting visible light in various colors from the illuminated ring to provide feedback for RF communication, allowing operation from any direction, even through obstacles;
- processing the received IR and RF signals by the transceiver module embedded within the ceiling fan to trigger corresponding control actions;
- customizing fan control functions and ensuring compatibility with various remote control protocols through programmable electronic components within the illuminated ring;
- illuminating the surroundings with light emitted from the LED lights integrated into the illuminated ring, which is positioned between the top and bottom enclosures of the ceiling fan rotor.

Reference Numerals in the Drawings (Fig’s 1-3):
- Ceiling Fan: (100)
- Illuminating Ring: (102)
- Top Enclosure: (104)
- Bottom Enclosure: (106)
- Transceiver Module: (108)
- Visible Light LEDs: (110)
- Printed Circuit Board (PCB): (112)
- LED Strip Holder: (114)

The accompanying figures provide a comprehensive depiction of the ceiling fan (100) featuring the innovative multipurpose illuminating ring (102). These illustrations illuminate the inventive components and their deliberate arrangement within the fan’s structure. The illuminating ring (102) is ingeniously integrated between the top enclosure (104) and the bottom enclosure (106), encircling the motor. This strategic positioning ensures the ring's efficacy in signal reception while reinforcing the structural integrity of the fan.

Detailing the specifics of the illuminating ring (102), it accommodates the transceiver module (108) along with the LED lights (110) on the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) (112). Arranged perpendicular to the motor shaft, this configuration is optimal for light distribution and signal reception. The circular design of the ring (102) also supports uniform light distribution and promotes bidirectional communication with remote control devices, thus enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the ceiling fan. The translucent material of the ring (102) plays a key role in diffusing the light from the LED strip (110), which amplifies the ambiance and visual appeal around the fan.

The illustrations detail the precise placement and function of the IR receiver modules (108) and the LED strip (110) within the illuminating ring (102). Positioned to maximize signal reception and light emission, these components facilitate precise control of the fan settings via the remote control and are seamlessly integrated within the ring for efficient communication. The LED strip (110) works in conjunction with the IR modules, emitting colored light as a signal for successful remote interaction, thereby enhancing user experience and convenience.

Further scrutiny of the illuminating ring (102) reveals the sophisticated integration of IR and RF technologies combined with advanced LED lighting. This synergy not only provides users with unparalleled control over the fan but also signifies a shift in the paradigm of ceiling fan operation and control.

The design blueprint, as further elaborated in the figures, accentuates the seamless integration of the illuminating ring (102) within the fan assembly. The ring's essential placement between the top (104) and bottom (106) enclosures, extending from the rotor, is key for optimized signal interaction. Such thoughtful design underpins the stability and durability of the ring within the fan's structure.

Encased within the illuminating ring (102) are the IR modules (108) and LED lights (110), strategically organized to enhance signal transmission and light distribution. This collaborative arrangement ensures efficient fan setting adjustments through remote controls, highlighting the design’s innovation and technical acumen.

Beyond design, the narrative includes thorough safety evaluations, affirming the fan's reliable operation across various conditions. From initial startup under reduced voltage to rigorous leakage current and electric strength tests, the design has been proven to meet stringent safety and durability criteria. Mechanical strength tests have further validated the fan's resilience to physical stress, in line with exhaustive endurance testing that simulates prolonged use.

This detailed exposition, underpinned by illustrative figures and meticulous testing, not only corroborates the innovative design of the ceiling fan (100) but also underscores the significant impact of the multipurpose illuminating ring (102) on the utility and design of the fan. This inventive approach elevates the ceiling fan beyond traditional limits, offering improved user interaction, aesthetic enhancement, and operational dependability, thus establishing new standards in ceiling fan technology and design.

The figure descriptions provide a detailed overview of the key components, functionality, structural integration, and testing procedures of the multipurpose illuminated ring for controlling ceiling fans. Through innovative design and rigorous testing, the invention offers users unparalleled control, reliability, and safety, revolutionizing the way ceiling fans are operated and controlled. With its advanced features and robust performance, the multipurpose illuminated ring sets a new standard for fan design and technology, enhancing user experience and satisfaction in residential and commercial settings.

SAFETY TESTS:
Starting: The fan started from rest when 85% of test voltage or lower limit of voltage range is applied.

Leakage Current and Electric Strength: Leakage current didn’t exceed the maximum value 3.5 mA and withstood high voltage test at 1250 volt for one minute.
Mechanical strength: The ceiling fan had adequate mechanical strength and is constructed to withstand rough handling that is expected in normal use. A load of 10000 N is suspended from the body of the fan for 1 min. A torque of 50 Nm is then applied to the fixed body of the fan for 1 min. The test is repeated with the 25 torque applied in the reverse direction.

Endurance test: Fan is subjected to 1000 cycles of operation at rated voltage and frequency, each cycle of operation comprises the blades to reach maximum rated speed and then shutting off the fan and allowed the blades to come to a complete 30 stop.

During the starting test, the fan successfully initiated operation when subjected to 85% of the test voltage or the lower limit of the voltage range, demonstrating its reliability under normal operating conditions. The leakage current and electric strength tests confirm the fan's compliance with safety standards, with the leakage current remaining below the maximum allowable value and the fan withstanding a high voltage test without failure.

Mechanical strength tests evaluated the fan's ability to withstand rough handling and external forces, demonstrating its robust construction and durability. The fan successfully withstands the applied load and torque, indicating its resilience and structural integrity.

Finally, the endurance test assessed the fan's long-term performance and reliability by subjecting it to repeated cycles of operation. The fan successfully completes 1000 cycles of operation without degradation or failure, confirming its suitability for prolonged use.

By adhering to rigorous testing standards, the invention ensures the quality and performance of the ceiling fan, enhancing user confidence and satisfaction.

The features and functions described above, as well as alternatives, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements may be made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

The described exemplary embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Variations in the arrangement of the structure are possible falling within the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
,CLAIMS:5. CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A ceiling fan (100) with a multipurpose illuminated ring (102), comprising:
a top (104) and a bottom enclosure (106), an illuminating ring (102), a transceiver module (108), and a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) (112);
the transceiver module (108) includes a Radio Frequency (RF) receiving means, a plurality of InfraRed (IR) sensors, and InfraRed Light Emitting Diodes (IR LEDs);
the said PCB (112) is rounded by a strip holder (114), embedded with a plurality of visible Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) (110);
Characterized in that,
the transceiver module (108) comprising of the IR sensors, IR LEDs, and visible light LEDs (110) embedded to the motor shaft, inside the ceiling fan (100) rotor, and is placed perpendicular to the sandwiched illuminating ring (102);
the illuminating ring (102) acts as Radio Frequency (RF) receiving window sandwiched between the top (104) and the bottom enclosures (106) of the ceiling fan (100) rotor; and
the ceiling fan (100), including the illuminating ring (102) and the transceiver module (108), is configured for capturing and transmitting IR frequencies and receiving RF frequencies, while providing feedback in various visible light colors depending on a mode of operation of the ceiling fan (100).

2. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transceiver module (108) including the IR sensors, IR LEDs, on the PCB (112) and visible light LEDs (110) are arranged in a circular pattern, enhancing light transmission and signal reception.

3. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transceiver module (108) also includes circuitry to process received IR and RF signals on the PCB (112), triggering corresponding control actions for the ceiling fan (100).

4. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a remote control system with a device capable of transmitting both IR and RF signals to control the fan (100).

5. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the illuminating ring (102) functions as a receiver for RF signals, enabling users to alter fan (100) settings without the need for direct line of sight.

6. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the illuminating ring (102) provides feedback by emitting light in various colors based on RF signal communication, enabling operation from any direction through potential obstacles.

7. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the programmable electronic components within the illuminating ring (102) allow for customized fan (100) control functions and compatibility with various remote control protocols.

8. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the illuminating ring (102) is constructed from transparent or translucent material, enabling the emitted light from the LEDs (110) to brighten the surrounding area.

9. The ceiling fan (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the illuminating ring (102) serves as an indicator, displaying operational states of the ceiling fan (100) with different light colors and patterns corresponding to specific fan settings or conditions.

10. A method for controlling a ceiling fan (100) equipped with a multipurpose illuminated ring (102) as claimed in claim 1, the method comprising:
transmitting IR and RF signals from a remote control device to the ceiling fan (100);
receiving the IR signals by the fan within the line of sight;
emitting visible light from the illuminating ring (102) to provide feedback for RF communication, enabling operation from any direction through obstacles;
processing received IR and RF signals via the transceiver module (108) to execute fan control actions;
customizing control functions and remote control protocol compatibility using programmable components within the illuminating ring (102); and
illuminating the environment with light from the visible light LEDs (110) integrated in the illuminating ring (102), which is interposed between the top (104) and bottom (106) enclosures of the ceiling fan (100) rotor.