Patents: Amazon’s Clever Voice-Controlled Light Switch is not Just ‘Alexa Inside’
Amazon’s patent application for voice-controlled light switch describes multiple mics on the faceplate and switch itself, so it can respond based on the position of the speaker (user) and whether the light is on or off.
Jun 29, 2017
Article
Patent
Patents: Home Automation Leader Crestron Invents a Smarter Smart Bulb
Crestron patent application describes a smart bulb with an integrated on/off mechanism, so users can turn the lamp "off" locally but still control via app or home automation. Is it practical?
Jun 16, 2017
LG’s Clever Tech for Commissioning Smart Lights Melds ZigBee with VLC Light Waves
Introduced at Lightfair 2017 LG Electronics’ new ZigBee Connector plugs into an Android mobile device, discovers smart lights via visible light communication (VLC), and enables on-the-fly programming via LG's Sensor Connect app.
May 16, 2017
Patent: Vivint ‘Door Knock’ Tech Might Help Identify Guests by Unique Sound Signatures
Security and home-automation giant Vivint Inc. files patent application for identifying guests through their “sound signatures” and running data through AI engine for predictive analytics.
Apr 20, 2017
Article
Patent
Vivint Smart Home Patent App: Door Locks, Keypads Project Video Display onto Surface
Instead of unsightly keypads on door locks and security panels, Vivint proposes a method for projecting a laser image of controls and feedback onto a wall, door or other surface.
Dec 27, 2016
Article
Patent
Patent Application: Is Lutron Reinventing X10?
Lutron’s patent application describes lighting control and home automation over existing powerlines, no neutral wire required.