APPLIANCE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

A system (10) and method for appliance control, including a controller (12) operatively connected to both an appliance motor (14) and lamp (24) thereof, for controlling its speed and direction of rotation, and brightness, respectively, in response to command signals, a control switch (16) adapted to be located remote from the appliance to provide command signals and a communication link (20) such as the existing a.c. power line, for transmitting command signals from the control switch (16) to the appliance controller (12). The control switch is characterized by a plurality of operator members (18) each providing no more than one distinct primary function command when manually operated and a processor (50) for converting function commands provided by the operator members (18) into modulated digital signal command signals for use by the appliance controller (12). The system (10) can include a plurality of appliances and controllers whereupon the control switch (16) provides address information for selecting particular ones (12) or groups of appliance controllers.