Description:
FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970 (39 OF 1970)
&
The Patents Rules, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10; rule 13)
1. Title of the invention – A FAIL-SAFE SMART SWITCH SYSTEM
2. Applicant(s)

(a) NAME: ETARNUS INNOVATIONS PRIVATE LIMITED

(b) NATIONALITY: INDIAN

(c) ADDRESS: 201,SHAILY COMPLEX, NEHRU PARK SOC, NR HIGH COURT, NAVRANGPURA-380009, AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT, INDIA
3. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

 
A FAIL-SAFE SMART SWITCH SYSTEM
FIELD OF INVENTION:

The present invention relates to smart home automation systems, specifically to a fail-safe smart switch system designed to provide seamless operation of electrical loads. More particularly, the invention enables automatic switching between digital and manual control modes, ensuring continuous functionality even during power or system failures. The invention further integrates voltage regulation, electrical isolation, and wireless connectivity, enhancing safety, reliability, and ease of use without requiring rewiring or modifications to existing switchboards.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION:

Smart home technology has fundamentally transformed our interaction with living spaces, offering unparalleled convenience and control over household appliances. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has empowered users to manage lighting, climate, security, and entertainment systems through mobile applications and voice commands. However, as the dependency on smart home systems grows, so does the complexity and potential for system failures. Traditional smart switches often rely on microcontroller units (MCUs), network connectivity and AC to DC power convertors to function, which can result in complete system inoperability in the event of a failure. This presents significant challenges for users, who may find themselves unable to control essential home functions during power outages or technical malfunctions. The demand for a more resilient and reliable solution is clear, as users seek assurance that their smart home systems will continue to operate seamlessly, even in the face of technical disruptions.

In addition to reliability concerns, the compatibility of smart home systems with existing infrastructure is a critical consideration. Many smart switches are limited to basic on/off operations and do not support variable controls such as fan speed regulators or LED dimmers. This limitation restricts the full potential of home automation, as users are unable to integrate more sophisticated control features into their smart home ecosystems. The demand for smart switches that can seamlessly integrate with existing electrical systems, without requiring extensive rewiring or modifications, is growing. Users are looking for solutions that not only enhance the functionality of their homes but also offer ease of installation and operation, ensuring that smart home technology is accessible and user-friendly for all.

The evolution of smart home technology has brought about a new era of convenience and efficiency, yet it has also introduced a set of challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its continued success and adoption. One of the primary challenges is the reliability of smart home systems. As these systems become more complex, the likelihood of technical failures increases, which can lead to significant inconvenience for users. For instance, a failure in the microcontroller unit (MCU) or a disruption in network connectivity can render a smart switch inoperable, leaving users without control over their home appliances. This is particularly concerning during power outages or other technical malfunctions, where the inability to control essential home functions can lead to discomfort and frustration.

To address these challenges, there is a growing need for smart home solutions that prioritize reliability and resilience. Users are seeking assurance that their smart home systems will continue to function seamlessly, even in the face of technical disruptions. This requires the development of smart switches that are not only capable of operating independently of network connectivity but also equipped with fail-safe mechanisms that ensure continued operation in the event of an MCU failure or other technical issues.

Another critical consideration in the development of smart home technology is compatibility with existing infrastructure. Many smart switches currently available on the market are limited to basic on/off operations and do not support more advanced control features such as fan speed regulation or LED dimming. This limitation restricts the full potential of home automation, as users are unable to integrate more sophisticated control features into their smart home ecosystems. As a result, there is a growing demand for smart switches that can seamlessly integrate with existing electrical systems, without requiring extensive rewiring or modifications.

In addition to enhancing functionality, users are also looking for smart home solutions that offer ease of installation and operation. The goal is to make smart home technology accessible and user-friendly for all, regardless of technical expertise. This means developing smart switches that can be easily retrofitted into existing homes, without the need for specialized equipment or extensive modifications to the existing wiring.

To overcome these challenges in smart home technology, manufacturers are exploring various strategies; however, these approaches also have certain limitations.

One such invention is disclosed in patent cited documents IN2022210550806, discloses the present invention relates to system for controls of electronic appliance in failure of automatic smart home. The system comprises a processing unit, a switched-mode power supply (SMPS) unit, a relay circuit, a two-way switch and an ac detection unit. The objective of the present invention is to solve the problems in the prior art technologies related to the control of the electronic appliance in failure of smart home system.

Another prior art document IN201921033218 discloses the present invention discloses an automatic smart home system failure control mechanism that transfers the digitally controlled smart home system into manually controllable system that can be controlled using manual switches when the system failure or power failure occurs and when digital control of the automatic system fails. The present invention discloses a mechanism made of Relays, Triacs, Smart controller and manual switch that is capable of being used as controlling mechanism of digitally controlled smart home system or that is capable of replacing conventional digital control mechanism of smart home systems that instead of shutting whole smart home system in power failure or system failure conditions, allows user to control smart home system manually using manual switches. The smart home system failure control mechanism of present invention discloses various embodiments of systems to control various loads, according to type and power requirement of load.

The problem associated with the available prior art include the smart home failure control mechanisms face several limitations, including reliance on two-way electrical switches, restricting compatibility with various home setups. These systems primarily support basic on/off switches, lacking advanced home automation features such as fan speed regulation and LED dimming. Additionally, they do not address failures in the microcontroller unit (MCU), leading to complete system non-functionality. A comprehensive fail-safe mechanism is required to ensure seamless operation, allowing users to control smart home devices manually without disruptions. The system should provide a reliable transition between digital and manual control modes, maintaining operational continuity even in case of power or system failures.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION:

The primary object of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system that ensures uninterrupted operation of connected electrical loads by seamlessly transitioning between digital control and manual operation modes.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to integrate a microcontroller unit (MCU) to regulate the voltage supply and control the switching operation while maintaining system reliability.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to enable manual control of connected loads through a physical switch and an adjustable control unit, allowing users to adjust intensity, speed, or power levels even during system or power failures.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to incorporate a relay-based regulator circuit controlled by the MCU to efficiently manage voltage levels and enhance power regulation for connected loads.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide an SPDT relay-based fail-safe mechanism that bypasses the MCU and allows direct connection between the adjustable control unit and the AC power supply during failure conditions, ensuring continuous operation without requiring rewiring.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to enhance safety and system reliability by incorporating an optocoupler for electrical isolation and a voltage measurement system for monitoring user-selected output levels.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to enable wireless connectivity through mobile applications and voice commands, allowing users to remotely monitor and control appliances, set schedules, and receive operational status updates.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to facilitate easy retrofitting by allowing the smart switch system to be installed behind existing switchboards without requiring modifications to wiring or infrastructure.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to integrate a diagnostic system that continuously monitors the operation of the MCU and relay-based regulator circuit, providing alerts for malfunctions and enabling proactive maintenance.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to include an operational confirmation mode, which provides real-time monitoring of system status and alerts users in case of anomalies or failures, ensuring system reliability and user convenience.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a wireless LED dimmer functionality, allowing users to control LED brightness levels through both digital and manual operations without requiring additional wiring.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to develop a smart fan regulator that enables smooth speed control of ceiling fans through mobile applications, voice commands, or manual adjustment without rewiring existing switchboards.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to support multi-device integration, allowing the smart switch system to work with multiple home automation systems and smart hubs for enhanced connectivity and compatibility.

Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a modular design that enables users to upgrade or customize their smart switch system as per their requirements without replacing the entire system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further disclosed in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

The present invention relates to a fail-safe smart switch system.

The main aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system comprising an AC line being capable of supplying power to the system, a microcontroller unit being capable as the central processor to control the adjustable control unit and switch operation, a physical switch being connected to the system for manual operation of connected load, an optocoupler being capable of detecting the status of the physical switch and providing electrical isolation between said AC line and said microcontroller unit, an adjustable control unit being capable of adjusting the intensity, speed, or power level of the connected load, a voltage measurement system being capable of monitoring the voltage through detecting the user-selected level on said adjustable control unit, a relay-based regulator circuit being capable of comprising relays and capacitors to regulate the voltage supply to the connected load and being controlled by said microcontroller unit during normal operation, said microcontroller unit being capable of controlling a Single-Pole Double-Throw relay to switch between said relay-based regulator circuit and a bypass mode, wherein, upon system or power failure, said Single-Pole Double-Throw relay disconnects from said relay-based regulator circuit and bypasses the microcontroller unit, connecting said adjustable control unit directly to the AC line, said physical switch enables manual operation of connected loads, with the output level being adjusted through the said adjustable control unit, said microcontroller unit being capable of ensuring that the smart switch with said adjustable control unit seamlessly transitions between digitally controlled and manually controllable modes, maintaining user convenience without requiring rewiring or access to internal system components.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system wherein the adjustable control unit is compatible with standard home regulators, allowing manual adjustment of output levels during system or power failure.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system wherein the relay-based regulator circuit can be configured with any peripheral devices used with or without regulators, offering flexibility in system design.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system wherein the optocoupler provides electrical isolation between the AC line and the microcontroller unit, ensuring safety during failure scenarios and enhancing system reliability.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system wherein MCU operates as a central controller for regulation and other appliances, integrating all controls into a unified system.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system with wireless connectivity, allowing it to interconnect with a mobile application and voice commands, enabling users to control appliances, set schedules, and monitor the status remotely.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system designed to be installed behind existing switchboards without requiring rewiring, enabling easy retrofitting of standard regulators into smart control systems.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system with a diagnostic system configured to monitor the operation of the microcontroller unit and the relay-based regulator circuit, alerting users to any malfunctions for proactive maintenance.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a fail-safe smart switch system that includes an operational confirmation mode, which is triggered by the microcontroller unit to indicate that the system is functioning correctly, ensuring real-time monitoring of the system’s operational status and providing alerts in case of anomalies or failures.
 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, exemplary constructions of
the invention is shown in the drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale; emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such
drawings include disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
Fig 1 is a schematic representation of a system working mode diagram with adjustable control unit of the present invention.

Fig 2 is a schematic representation of a system failure mode diagram with adjustable control unit of the present invention.

Fig 3 is a schematic representation of a system working mode diagram without adjustable control unit of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific functional and structural details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.

The present invention overcomes the aforesaid drawbacks of conventional electric system. The objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will now be described in greater detail. Also, the following description includes various specific details and is to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that: without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and its various embodiments there may be any number of changes and modifications described herein.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Although any systems and methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present invention, the preferred, systems are now described.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, as per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, A Fail-safe smart switch system (100) comprising an AC line (101) being capable of supplying power to the system (100).
a microcontroller unit (MCU) (102) being capable of functioning as the central processor to control an adjustable control unit (105) and switch operation, with the MCU (102) including an operational confirmation mode (110) being capable of determining system functionality. a physical switch (103) being connected to the system for manual operation of connected Load (109). an optocoupler (104) being capable of detecting the status of the physical switch (103) and providing electrical isolation between said AC line (101) and said MCU (102). an adjustable control unit (105) being capable of adjusting the intensity, speed, or power level of the connected Load (109). a voltage measurement system (106) being capable of monitoring the voltage through detecting the user-selected level on said Adjustable control unit (105). a relay-based regulator circuit (107) being capable of comprising relays and capacitors to regulate the voltage supply to the connected Load (109) and being controlled by said MCU (102) during normal operation. a Single-Pole Double-Throw (SPDT) relay A (108 A) being capable of controlling the AC supply to the relay-based regulator circuit (107), with the MCU (102) triggering relay (108 A) upon receiving ON/OFF commands from either the physical switch (103) or a mobile application. a Single-Pole Double-Throw (SPDT) relay B (108 B) being capable of switching between a MCU (102) control mode and a bypass mode, with relay (108 B) being triggered by an operational confirmation mode (110) indicating system functionality. wherein, the MCU (102) is being capable of controlling relay (108 A) to manage power to the relay-based regulator circuit (107), while relay (108 B) is being capable of ensuring the system remains in MCU control mode based on the operational confirmation mode (110), during system working mode. said relay (108 B) is being capable of bypassing the MCU (102), said relay (108 A), and the relay-based regulator circuit (107), directly connecting the adjustable control unit (105) to the load (109), allowing manual operation via the physical switch (103), during system failure mode. said physical switch (103) being capable of enabling manual operation of the connected load (109), with the output level being adjustable through the adjustable control unit (105). said MCU (102) being capable of ensuring seamless transition between digitally controlled and manually controllable modes, maintaining user convenience without requiring rewiring or access to internal system components.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) includes an adjustable control unit (105) that is compatible with standard home regulators, enabling manual adjustment of output levels during system or power failure.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) incorporates a relay-based regulator circuit (107) that can be configured with any peripheral devices used with or without regulators.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) features an optocoupler (104) that provides electrical isolation between the AC line (101) and the MCU (102), ensuring safety during failure scenarios and enhancing system reliability.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) utilizes an MCU (102) that operates as a central controller for regulation and other appliances, integrating all controls into a unified system.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) has wireless connectivity, allowing it to interconnect with a mobile application and voice commands. The mobile application enables users to control appliances, set schedules, and monitor status remotely.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) is designed to be installed behind existing switchboards without requiring rewiring, enabling easy retrofitting of standard regulators into smart control systems.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) further comprises a diagnostic system configured to monitor the operation of the MCU (102) and the relay-based regulator circuit (107), alerting users to any malfunctions for proactive maintenance.

As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the fail-safe smart switch system (100) further comprising an operational confirmation mode (110), said operational confirmation mode (110) being integral part of the MCU (102) and being capable of continuously monitoring the system's functionality; The MCU (102) is being capable of triggering the operational confirmation mode (110) to verify proper operation, ensuring real-time monitoring of the system’s status, and generating alerts in response to detected anomalies or failures.
As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the Relay (108 A) SPDT is responsible for controlling the AC supply by turning it ON or OFF for the Relay-based Regulator Circuit (107). It is triggered by the Microcontroller Unit (MCU) (102) upon receiving ON/OFF commands, which can originate from either a physical switch or a mobile application. This mechanism allows efficient and seamless control over the system's power supply.
As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the Relay (108 B) SPDT is responsible for switching between MCU Control Mode and Bypass Mode. It is activated by the Operational Confirmation Mode (110) when the system is functioning correctly. This relay ensures that the system operates under controlled conditions when the MCU is active, allowing precise regulation and operation.
As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, in case of a system failure, the Relay (108 B) SPDT automatically bypasses the MCU (102), Relay (108 A), and the Relay-based Regulator Circuit (107), ensuring that the Adjustable Control Unit is directly connected to the Load (109). This bypass mechanism ensures that the system continues to function even if the primary control components fail.
As per the detailed embodiment of the present invention, the system is designed to maintain continuous operation even during failures such as MCU failure, AC-DC power supply failure, or other technical issues. This fail-safe design enhances the reliability and efficiency of the system, preventing disruptions and ensuring stable performance.
The technical specification of the said microcontroller (102) is further explained below, providing a comprehensive understanding of its functionality:

1. Wireless Communication System:
• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Zigbee/Z-Wave Systems:
• Enables remote control via mobile apps and integration with voice assistants.

2. Mobile Application Software:
• User Interface for Smartphones/Tablets:
• Allows users to control appliances, set schedules, and monitor status remotely.

3. Embedded Firmware:
• Software Programmed into the MCU:
• Handles the logic for smart control, communication protocols, and the fail-safe mechanism.

4. Voice Control Integration:
• APIs and Protocols:
• Components and software necessary for compatibility with voice assistants like, but not limited to, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri.

5. Communication Antenna:
• Built-in or External Antennas:
• Improves the range and reliability of wireless communication.

6. Non-Volatile Memory Storage:
• EEPROM or Flash Memory:
• Stores user settings, schedules, and preferences even after power loss.

7. Real-Time Clock (RTC) System (Optional):
• Timekeeping Component:
• Enables scheduling and timing functions even when not connected to the internet.

8. Diagnostics and Monitoring System:
• Self-Test Circuits and Indicators:
• Monitor the health of the system and initiate the fail-safe mechanism if a fault is detected.

The technical features of the present invention are further elaborately shown and explained through the figures of the invention, providing a comprehensive understanding of its design and functionality.

As shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, FIG. 1 represent FIG. 1 depicts the overall system architecture, where the AC Line (101) serves as the primary power source, supplying electrical energy throughout the system, with a neutral connection providing the necessary return path. The Physical Switch (103) allows manual control of the system, functioning similarly to standard electrical modular switches commonly used in households for operating electrical appliances. When toggled, the physical switch sends a signal detected by an Optocoupler (104), which ensures electrical isolation between the high-voltage AC circuit and the Microcontroller Unit (MCU) (102) while transmitting the switching status to the MCU.

The Adjustable Control Unit (105) is used to regulate the operation of the connected Load (109). The Voltage Measurement System (106) continuously monitors the voltage levels across the Adjustable Control Unit (105), allowing the MCU (102) to determine the current setting selected by the user. Based on this information, the MCU processes the data and takes appropriate actions to maintain or adjust the load operation accordingly.

The Relay-Based Regulator Circuit (107), composed of polyester capacitors and relays, is responsible for regulating the voltage supply to the Load (109). The system features SPDT Relay A (108A) and SPDT Relay B (108B), which operate based on signals from the MCU (102). These relays are controlled in a manner where, upon activation, the Operational Confirmation Mode (110) is connected to the Normally Open (NO) position, ensuring that power is supplied through the regulated path as determined by the MCU.

The Operational Confirmation Mode (110) is triggered by the MCU (102), serving as an indicator that the system is functioning correctly. This operational mode confirms that the system is actively processing input signals and responding accordingly to user interactions or pre-programmed conditions.

By integrating manual control, automatic voltage detection, and relay-based switching, the system efficiently manages load regulation while maintaining operational reliability. FIG. 1 effectively demonstrates the working principle of the system, ensuring optimal load management through smart automation and real-time voltage monitoring.

FIG. 2 illustrates the System Failure Mode, depicting the operational behavior when a failure occurs, ensuring uninterrupted functionality by shifting control from the Microcontroller Unit (MCU) (102) to manual operation. The system is powered by an AC Line (101) with a Neutral connection, ensuring continuous power availability. In normal operation, the Relay (108A) SPDT controls the AC supply by switching the Relay-Based Regulator Circuit (107) ON or OFF based on commands received from the MCU (102), which can be triggered through a Physical Switch (103) or a Mobile Application. The Relay (108B) SPDT serves as a mode selector, switching between MCU Control Mode and Bypass Mode, activated by the Operational Confirmation Mode (110) when the system functions correctly, ensuring precise control and regulation.

In the event of a system failure, the System Working Flag detects the fault, causing the Relay (108B) SPDT to automatically bypass the MCU (102), Relay (108A), and the Relay-Based Regulator Circuit (107), thereby directly connecting the Adjustable Control Unit (105) to the Load (109). As part of the failure mode response, both Relay (108A) and Relay (108B) transition to their Normally Closed (NC) positions, ensuring that power is directly supplied to the Adjustable Control Unit (105) without interference from the MCU or automation logic. This mechanism ensures that the system remains operational, preventing disruptions.

During failure mode, the Voltage Measurement System (106) becomes inactive since system automation is disabled. The Physical Switch (103) remains fully functional, allowing users to manually control and regulate the Load (109), similar to conventional systems. The fail-safe mechanism guarantees continuous operation, even in scenarios of MCU failure, AC-DC power supply failure, or other technical issues. By utilizing the NC state of the relays (108A, 108B), the system effectively bypasses automated controls, ensuring uninterrupted load management and operational continuity.

FIG. 3 illustrates the system operation mode, demonstrating how the Microcontroller Unit (MCU) (102) manages the Load (109) based on the status of the Physical Switch (103) and the SPDT Relay (108B). The system operates on an AC Line (101) and Neutral, ensuring continuous power availability.

The Physical Switch (103) allows manual control of the load and is also monitored by the Optocoupler (104), which detects switch operation and transmits the status to the MCU (102). The SPDT Relay (108B) plays a key role in switching between microcontroller-controlled operation and direct AC supply to the load.

In normal operation, the MCU (102) determines the state of the Load (109) based on input signals and controls the SPDT Relay (108B) accordingly. When the relay is in its Normally Open (NO) position, the MCU actively regulates the load. If necessary, the relay transitions to the Normally Closed (NC) position, allowing direct AC power flow from the AC Line (101) to the Load (109), bypassing MCU control.

The Operational Confirmation Module (110) monitors the overall system state, ensuring proper functionality and seamless operation between manual and automatic control modes.

The advantages of the present invention are further highlighted through a detailed description of its design and functionality, providing a comprehensive understanding of its technical benefits.

1. Seamless Transition to Manual Control: The present invention enables a smooth switch to traditional manual control without requiring any wiring modifications or additional hardware when the smart system fails. This ensures uninterrupted appliance functionality, unlike conventional smart switches that may render appliances inoperative upon failure.

2. Integrated Automatic Fail-Safe Mechanism: The invention detects malfunctions within the smart switch system and instantly reverts control to physical switches. This self-recovery feature eliminates the need for professional intervention or rewiring, making it highly user-friendly.

3. Uninterrupted Functionality: By ensuring continuous control over appliances without technical assistance, the present invention prevents downtime and disruptions in daily activities. This is particularly beneficial in residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

4. Preserves Previous Settings and Preferences: Upon resolving any smart system malfunction, the system automatically restores all configurations, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration. This feature significantly improves the user experience.

5. Multi-Modal Control Support: The invention allows users to operate appliances through mobile applications, voice commands, and physical switches. Unlike existing smart switches, it ensures that physical switches remain operational at all times, even when smart functionalities fail.

6. Robust Against Network and Power Fluctuations: Unlike traditional smart switches that become non-functional during network outages or power instability, this system maintains consistent performance by allowing manual operation at all times. This ensures reliability for critical appliances like medical equipment, security systems, and essential home utilities.

7. Eliminates Single Point of Failure: The invention removes the common single point of failure associated with existing smart switch designs, significantly enhancing safety and resilience in smart home environments.

8. Non-Invasive Installation for Retrofitting: The system is ideal for upgrading existing structures, as it does not require modifications to the current wiring infrastructure. This makes it a cost-effective and convenient solution for older homes and buildings.

9. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly: The invention reduces electronic waste by ensuring that the physical switch remains operational even when the smart system fails, extending the lifespan of electrical components.

10. Scalability and Future Smart Home Integration: Designed for easy expansion, the invention allows additional systems to be incorporated without altering the existing setup. It supports robust communication protocols for consistent performance across various control interfaces.

11. Enhanced Security Against Cyber Threats: In case of hacking attempts or network attacks targeting smart functionalities, the system ensures that manual control remains unaffected, providing an extra layer of safety not found in conventional smart switches.

12. User-Friendly with No Learning Curve: The invention ensures that users can revert to physical switches without needing to learn new procedures, making it accessible to all demographics.

13. Aesthetic Integration: The system seamlessly blends with different interior designs, maintaining the visual appeal of living spaces while enhancing functionality.

14. Reliable and Efficient Smart Switch Technology: By guaranteeing uninterrupted control, promoting energy efficiency, and addressing critical safety concerns, the invention sets a new benchmark in smart home automation.

As per the optional embodiment of the present invention includes status indicators, such as LEDs or LCD displays, to provide visual feedback on the operational status of the system, including power status, Wi-Fi connectivity, and fail-safe activation. Additionally, the invention may incorporate optional sensor inputs, including touch sensors, ambient light sensors, and motion detectors, to enable enhanced automation and control features.

Another optional embodiment of the present invention includes compatibility with wired automation for enhanced control and integration.

Without further description, it is believed that one of ordinary skill in the art can, using the preceding description and the illustrative examples, make and utilize the present invention and practice the claimed methods. It should be understood that the foregoing discussion and examples merely present a detailed description of certain preferred embodiments. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and equivalents can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

LIST OF REFRENCE NUMERALS
Fail-safe smart switch system (100)
AC line (101)
Microcontroller unit (MCU) (102)
Physical switch (103)
Optocoupler (104)
Adjustable control unit (105)
Voltage measurement system (106)
Relay-based regulator circuit (107)
Single-Pole Double-Throw (SPDT) relay A (108A)
Single-Pole Double-Throw (SPDT) relay B (108B)
Load (109)
Operational Confirmation Mode (110)
, Claims:Claims:
We claim;
1. A Fail-safe smart switch system (100) comprising:
an AC line (101) being capable of supplying power to the system (100);
a microcontroller unit (MCU) (102) being capable of functioning as the central processor to control an adjustable control unit (105) and switch operation, with the MCU (102) including an operational confirmation mode (110) being capable of determining system functionality;
a physical switch (103) being connected to the system for manual operation of connected Load (109);
an optocoupler (104) being capable of detecting the status of the physical switch (103) and providing electrical isolation between said AC line (101) and said MCU (102);
an adjustable control unit (105) being capable of adjusting the intensity, speed, or power level of the connected Load (109);
a voltage measurement system (106) being capable of monitoring the voltage through detecting the user-selected level on said Adjustable control unit (105);
a relay-based regulator circuit (107) being capable of comprising relays and capacitors to regulate the voltage supply to the connected Load (109) and being controlled by said MCU (102) during normal operation;
a Single-Pole Double-Throw (SPDT) relay A (108 A) being capable of controlling the AC supply to the relay-based regulator circuit (107), with the MCU (102) triggering relay (108 A) upon receiving ON/OFF commands from either the physical switch (103) or a mobile application;
a Single-Pole Double-Throw (SPDT) relay B (108 B) being capable of switching between a MCU (102) control mode and a bypass mode, with relay (108 B) being triggered by an operational confirmation mode (110) indicating system functionality;
wherein,
the MCU (102) is being capable of controlling relay (108 A) to manage power to the relay-based regulator circuit (107), while relay (108 B) is being capable of ensuring the system remains in MCU control mode based on the operational confirmation mode (110), during system working mode;
said relay (108 B) is being capable of bypassing the MCU (102), said relay (108 A), and the relay-based regulator circuit (107), directly connecting the adjustable control unit (105) to the load (109), allowing manual operation via the physical switch (103), during system failure mode;
said physical switch (103) being capable of enabling manual operation of the connected load (109), with the output level being adjustable through the adjustable control unit (105);
said MCU (102) being capable of ensuring seamless transition between digitally controlled and manually controllable modes, maintaining user convenience without requiring rewiring or access to internal system components.
2. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the adjustable control unit (105) is compatible with standard home regulators, enabling manual adjustment of output levels during system or power failure.

3. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the relay-based regulator circuit (107) can be configured with any peripheral devices used with or without regulators.

4. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the optocoupler (104) provides electrical isolation between the AC line (101) and the MCU (102), ensuring safety during failure scenarios and enhancing system reliability.

5. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the MCU (102) operates as a central controller for regulation and other appliances, integrating all controls into a unified system.

6. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smart switch system (100) has wireless connectivity, allowing it to interconnect with a mobile application and voice commands; the mobile application allows users to control appliances, set schedules, and monitor status remotely.

7. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smart switch system (100) is designed to be installed behind existing switchboards without requiring rewiring, enabling easy retrofitting of standard regulators into smart control systems.

8. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smart switch system (100) further comprises a diagnostic system configured to monitor the operation of the MCU (102) and the relay-based regulator circuit (107), alerting users to any malfunctions for proactive maintenance.

9. The fail-safe smart switch system (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an operational confirmation mode (110), said operational confirmation mode (110) being integral part of the MCU (102) and being capable of continuously monitoring the system's functionality; The MCU (102) is being capable of triggering the operational confirmation mode (110) to verify proper operation, ensuring real-time monitoring of the system’s status, and generating alerts in response to detected anomalies or failures.

Dated this 17th Mar 2025