Adaptive lighting system and method for operators in an operating area

Abstract

Adaptive lighting system (110, 120, 130, 210, 510) for one or more operators (200) in an operating area, characterized in that it comprises: - one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510) arranged in the operating area, having the capacity for automated directing of one or more respective light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515); - means for tracking (130) the position of the one or more operators (200) with respect to said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510); - dynamic control means (120) of said one or more electronic rotating beacons, the dynamic control means being configured for the activation and / or direction of the respective one or more light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515) depending on the reciprocal position of said one or more operators (200) and of said one or more beacons (110, 410, 510); wherein said dynamic control means (120) are configured for the automatic transition from one headlight to another of said one or more electronic rotating headlights (110) based on said position of said one or more operators (200), and for the direction of a light beam (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515) of said one or more respective light beams forward with respect to the position of said one or more operators (200) for the illumination of a forward path of the one or more operators.

Description

Adaptive lighting system and method for operators in an operating area The present invention relates to an adaptive lighting system and method for operators in an operating area. Field of invention This invention falls within the field of lighting systems for personnel in operational areas, particularly for emergency and rescue vehicles. Specifically, it is a system that utilizes advanced tracking technologies and dynamic controls to automatically direct headlights toward moving personnel, thereby improving visibility and the effectiveness of operations such as emergency and rescue, and significantly increasing operator safety. State of the art Traditional lighting systems for personnel, particularly for emergency and rescue vehicles, are often inadequate for responding quickly to the dynamics of operations where personnel are frequently on the move and operate in varying visibility conditions. These systems typically require manual intervention to direct the headlights, causing delays and reducing operational efficiency. For example, in nighttime search and rescue situations, personnel may need to move rapidly across uneven terrain and obstacles, making it difficult to maintain constant illumination. This invention aims to overcome the limitations of existing systems by offering a more reactive and adaptive mechanism that allows for optimal illumination of moving personnel without the need for constant manual intervention. Object and purpose of the invention The objective of the present invention is to provide an adaptive lighting system and method that solves the problems and overcomes the drawbacks of the known art. The object of the present invention is a system and a method according to the appended claims. Detailed description of examples of embodiment of the invention LIST OF FIGURES The invention will be described below by way of illustration, but not limitation, with special reference to the drawings in the accompanying figures, in which: - Figure 1 shows a first view from above of the aiming in the advanced aiming lighting system according to one embodiment of the invention; - Figure 2 shows a second view from above of the aiming of the light beam with respect to the operator according to a different embodiment; - Figure 3 shows a third view from above of the pointing according to a different embodiment of the invention; - Figure 4 shows a fourth side view of the pointing according to a different embodiment of the invention; - Figure 5 shows a fifth top view of the personnel lighting by means of a light bar installed on a vehicle, according to one aspect of the system of the invention; - Figure 6 shows a block diagram of the system's operation according to one aspect of the invention: - Figure 7 shows a different embodiment of the invention with headlights that can be placed arbitrarily in the field, for example at a construction site; - Figure 8 shows a form of embodiment similar to that of Figure 7, but in which different sets of headlights follow different operators in the field; - Figure 9 shows a form of embodiment similar to those in Figures 7 and 8, in which a set of headlights follows a single operator. It is specified here that elements of different embodiments can be combined with each other to provide additional embodiments without limit, respecting the technical concept of the invention, as the average technician in the sector readily understands from the description. This description also refers to the known technique for its implementation, in relation to the detailed characteristics not described, such as the minor elements that are commonly used in the known technique in solutions of the same type. When an element is introduced, it is always understood that it can be "at least one" or "one or more". When a list of elements or features is enumerated in this description, it is understood that the invention according to the invention "comprises" or, alternatively, "is composed of" such elements. When features are listed in the same sentence or list, one or more of the individual features may be included in the invention without connection to the other features in the list. FORMS OF REALIZATION For the illustration of the forms of realization, reference will be made to the set of figures 1 to 9. Integration and configuration of electronic rotating headlights One or more headlights 110 are equipped with motorized mechanisms that allow for precise and rapid rotation, configurable to respond to specific location signals received, for example, from the operator's device 210. These headlights 110 can be mounted on weatherproof and shockproof structures suitable for use in extreme conditions. For example, the headlights can rotate 360 ​​degrees horizontally and 180 degrees vertically to ensure complete coverage. Furthermore, with reference to the specific embodiment shown in Figure 5, one or more headlights 410 can be integrated into a light bar 400 that can also rotate perpendicularly to the vehicle 300 to allow for orientation of the light bar equipment and ensure its visibility in all operating situations. Operating mode: 1. Tracking Mode. In this mode, the headlights 110 are adjusted to maintain illumination on the operator 200 by modifying the type, intensity, and / or direction of the beam 111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415 (or by turning on the headlight itself, all possibilities included in the term "activation" in this document, including the claims) according to the distance of the operator 200 from the vehicle 100, 300. The tracking technology ensures that the operator 200 is always visible, regardless of their rapid or sudden movements. For example, if the operator 200 moves quickly between obstacles, the headlights 110 are adjusted in real time to maintain continuous illumination. 2. Beam Transition: The headlights 110 automatically switch from a wide to a narrow beam when the operator moves more than 20 meters away from the vehicle, maintaining visibility typically up to 50 meters. This function is especially useful for operations in open and spacious environments where personnel 200 may need to cover large distances quickly. The transition between beam types is made possible by distance sensors 130 (shown only in the block diagram in Figure 6) that continuously calculate the operator's position relative to the headlights. The sensors 130 can be integrated into the headlights or placed in other known locations. In all embodiments, the sensors or "tracking means" 130 for the position of one or more operators 200 are capable of providing the position relative to one or more electronically adjustable beacons 110, 410, 510. This can be done by determining the distance to the beacons and / or the position of the operators and calculating the difference with the known positions of the beacons. For example, the relative position can be calculated with respect to a single beacon, and then the unit 120 uses this position for tracking, or it calculates an average position relative to the entire set of beacons, knowing the positions of the other beacons. There are other ways to calculate this relative distance. Intuitive control The 110, 120, 130, and 210 system can be controlled via a 210 remote control with a touch interface, which responds to specific tap sequences to change lighting modes or activate / deactivate the system. The 210 remote control can be designed for easy use even with gloves, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted interaction during emergency and rescue operations. For example, a double tap could activate the invention's automatic tracking mode, while a swipe could adjust the beam intensity 111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, and 511-515. In addition to the automated functions that can be activated and customized with touches, the 210 remote control can also manually control the 110 beacon using buttons to move it up to a distance of 150 meters. Voice commands The system of the invention can be designed to support voice command input, allowing operators to control the system hands-free. Using an integrated microphone or one connected to the system via Bluetooth, operators can activate specific modes, adjust the beam intensity, or manually aim the headlights simply by speaking predefined voice commands. This feature is particularly useful in situations where the operator's hands are occupied or when using a remote control is impractical. For example, during an emergency intervention, a 200 operator could say "Activate tracking mode" to enable automatic tracking and maintain optimal lighting without having to resort to manual interactions. Control via augmented reality glasses (ARG) The system of the invention can also be controlled via compatible augmented reality glasses. Integrated into the system via a wireless connection, the AR glasses display a user interface superimposed on the operator's field of vision, allowing the lighting system to be controlled and adjusted without taking their eyes off the work area. Gestures, such as a head movement or a tap on the glasses, can be used to modify the spotlight settings or to switch between modes. For example, a firefighter could use AR glasses to see in real time where the 110 spotlights are pointing and adjust them with a simple head movement, without interrupting their operations. In any form of embodiment, the control unit allows switching from one lighthouse to another that insists on a specific operator. Offset Aiming of the Light Beam In addition to the existing control methods, the system according to the invention offers the possibility of displacing the point of the light beam 111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515 with respect to the operator's position 200. This function allows the operator to decide whether the light beam should precede their movement, illuminating the area in front instead of their current position (in which case it is always necessary to know the current position in order to perform a differential displacement). Using voice commands, the touch interface of the remote control 210, or augmented reality glasses, the operator can adjust the displacement of the light beam 111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515 by a few meters in the direction of travel. For example, the 200 operator can use commands such as "Move the beam 5 meters forward" to have the system illuminate the path ahead, facilitating progress in dark environments or unfamiliar terrain. Alternatively, via the touch interface of the 210 remote control, the operator can easily adjust the beam offset with a simple swipe or tap, defining the advance distance of the light relative to its position. Alternatively, with the use of augmented reality glasses, the operator can visualize and regulate in real time the point of the light beam 111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515 by virtually moving it forward to illuminate the path before physically reaching it. For example, a healthcare worker moving quickly in a hostile environment can shift the light beam 10 meters forward to ensure the path is well illuminated, allowing them to move forward safely without having to manually control the light's positioning at each step. The following are three application scenarios for the present invention. The first scenario involves police responding to an accident. During the response, officers can move freely around the accident scene (generally the "operations area") knowing that their surroundings are constantly illuminated. They can block the light beam or adjust its focus by selecting the beam's angle, thus ensuring optimal illumination without distractions. The second scenario relates to healthcare. Medical personnel and / or paramedics responding to an accident scene will benefit from dynamic lighting that follows them from the initial first aid, through loading the stretcher, to loading the stretcher into the ambulance, without the need to manage the light beam with a remote control. This allows them to fully concentrate on providing medical assistance. The third scenario concerns firefighting operations. Firefighters can move freely with the necessary equipment, confident that the lighting will follow them from their vehicle to the scene. This ensures they can work safely, with optimal visibility throughout all phases of the operation. Referring to the block diagram in Figure 6, the vehicle-mounted control unit 120 receives the relative position from the sensor 130, which may be a vehicle-mounted sensor 100, 300, an operator-carrying sensor 200, or both, and possibly from commands from the touch device 210 or an augmented reality device. The control unit then modifies the position and / or orientation of the headlights 110 to direct the light beams accordingly. The control unit 120 can also be placed in an operational scenario in the absence of the vehicle, as illustrated below, and receive commands from the device 210 or from an AI 550 that processes images of the operational scenario (see below) and that can operate in the same control unit or on a remote server. Other applications In addition to its use in emergency and rescue vehicles, the system of the invention is useful in contexts such as: • Roadside assistance and road maintenance: Operators working on busy roads can rely on automated and adaptive visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. • Private surveillance: security teams can use the invention to illuminate and monitor sensitive areas such as parking lots, residential complexes, and industrial sites. • Construction works: the system can be installed on self-powered telescopic tripods to provide a flexible and distributed lighting network over large work areas. With specific reference to Figures 7 to 9, in contexts such as large-scale construction or road maintenance, the 510 spotlights of the invention can be mounted on self-powered telescopic tripods 520, strategically distributed in a work area. These tripods 520 (more generally, vertical support means) act as hubs to extend the reach of the lighting network, creating a distributed system that allows operators to move freely. Each spotlight 510 can be connected to the network and synchronized with the others to maintain optimal coverage of the area with light beams 511, 512, for example, on a construction site. Each 510 spotlight functions as a node in the network of spotlights, extending coverage and allowing operators to be followed by a beam of light even in large, open spaces. The spotlights 510 mounted on the tripods 520 are automatically oriented towards the operator, ensuring constant lighting while the operator 200 moves around the work area. This system can be monitored and managed via a touch screen or remote control, with the ability to configure the direction and / or activation of the 510 spotlights in real time. The spotlights 510 can be controlled so that they split to follow different operators 200, as in figure 8, where beams 515 on one side and 513, 514 follow different operators 200. On the other hand, several spotlights 510 can follow a single operator 200, as in figure 9, to illuminate a whole wide field of work (e.g., an area under surveillance), e.g., in front of a wall 600. In general, each 510 spotlight (including the emergency and rescue versions) can be equipped with an intelligent system capable of communicating with a remote control for personal use by an operator, allowing operators to independently pair themselves with spotlights that are not yet paired. Alternatively, the spotlights can be divided into two units, each connected to which the operator connects independently, with their position tracked by suitable tracking systems mounted on tripods or other locations. In this regard, the system of the invention can be further enhanced by implementing cameras with normal and / or infrared (night vision) capabilities, combined with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. This improvement allows the system to learn and adapt to operational scenarios, optimizing lighting management and improving operator safety in real time. The cameras, supported by AI, provide images that the AI ​​can process to recognize the characteristics of work environments or areas and the typical behaviors of operators. This allows the system to identify recurring patterns and predict the optimal lighting distribution, ensuring that crucial areas are consistently illuminated. In this way, the operator does not have to interact with the lighting system of the invention. According to one aspect of the invention, using facial recognition or other visual indicators, the system can further locate the group coordinator within the stage. Dynamic lighting automatically follows the coordinator, improving visibility in areas where the most critical operations are performed. Thanks to real-time image and data processing, AI can detect anomalous situations such as: - Aggressions or confrontations: the system can detect sudden or violent movements and intensify the lighting in the affected area, quickly alerting the operators. - Sudden fires or explosions: heat sensors and thermal cameras allow the detection of sudden and dangerous heat sources, automatically activating an emergency protocol. - Injured among the rescuers: the system of the invention can identify an operator who collapses or becomes immobilized, signaling a possible injury situation and drawing the attention of the other members of the group. In all embodiments, the dynamic control means 120 of one or more of said electronic rotating headlights can regulate, autonomously or under control, the color or intensity of the light beams of one or more of said spotlights, when equipped with suitable lighting elements. Two or more of the parts (elements, devices, systems) described above may be freely combined and considered as a kit of parts according to the invention. Applications and advantages The present invention represents a significant advancement in the field of field lighting systems, with particular emphasis on improving visibility and safety through the use of advanced tracking and dynamic control technologies. The integration of precise localization technologies and automatic lighting control allows operators to remain visible at all times, reducing risks and improving operational efficiency. The possibility of integrating artificial intelligence systems for automatic obstacle recognition and real-time optimization of lighting routes is also envisaged. One example of this application is a large-scale construction project. Workers on the site at night can move freely between the various tripods distributed around the area, knowing that the lights will automatically adjust to their movements to ensure constant and safe visibility. Another example is highway maintenance: during maintenance work on a section of highway, headlights mounted on tripods ensure that all work areas are illuminated, preventing potential accidents with passing vehicles. Another field of application is private surveillance in large areas: in surveillance contexts, spotlights installed on tripods can be distributed around a property to monitor every movement and ensure continuous security. Regarding the use of AI in the invention's system, the benefits for operational safety include: - Dynamic adaptation to the environment: the use of AI allows the system to continuously adapt the lighting distribution based on environmental and operational conditions, improving visibility and reducing risks. - Automated and timely response: Integration with AI allows the invention's system to react in real time to dangerous situations, without the need for manual intervention, which significantly improves response times. - Intelligent hazard recognition: the ability to identify abnormal behavior and dangerous situations in advance drastically reduces the risk of accidents or injuries, protecting both operators and civilians involved in the operation. The possible operational scenarios of the invention's system that integrates an AI include: - Intervention in urban emergency situations: In an urban context, the system of the invention, enhanced with cameras and AI, can simultaneously monitor several operators, follow the group coordinator and quickly illuminate potentially dangerous situations such as fights or fires. - Rescue operations in complex construction sites: during an intervention at a construction site, the system can intelligently manage the lighting, improving visibility in active work areas and monitoring for abnormal movements or hazards such as explosions or accidents. - Control of high-traffic areas: In surveillance or security operations in areas with high traffic of people, AI cameras can locate situations of overcrowding, violent or dangerous behavior, and immediately alert intervention teams. The integration of AI-powered cameras into the invention's system represents a significant evolutionary step in operational security management. It not only enhances the ability to adapt and respond to threats, but also provides intelligent, automated protection that dynamically adjusts to changes in the operational environment. Summary The following is a unified embodiment of the present invention that demonstrates the interrelation and interfunctionality of embodiments of the invention described above. Such a unified embodiment comprises an adaptive lighting system (110, 120, 130, 210, 510) for one or more operators (200) in an operating area, the system comprising: - one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510) arranged in the area of ​​operations, which have the capacity for automated direction of one or more respective light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515); - means of monitoring (130) the position of one or more operators (200) with respect to said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510); - dynamic control means (120) of said one or more electronic rotating beacons, the dynamic control means being configured for the activation and / or direction of the respective one or more light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515) depending on the reciprocal position of said one or more operators (200) and of said one or more beacons (110, 410, 510); wherein said dynamic control means (120) are configured for the automatic transition from one headlight to another of said one or more electronic rotating headlights (110) depending on said position of the one or more operators (200), and for the direction of a light beam (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515) of said one or more respective light beams forward with respect to the position of said one or more operators (200) for the illumination of a forward path of the one or more operators. This unified embodiment may further comprise command communication means (210) from said one or more operators (200) to said dynamic control means (120). In this case, said command communication means (210) may comprise: (i) a user interface based on configurable touch gestures and / or configurable voice commands, or (ii) an augmented reality (AR) glasses-based user interface, configured to allow said one or more operators (200) real-time viewing and control of the activation and / or addressing of said one or more respective light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515) with respect to their own position. In the event that the unified embodiment comprises said command communication means (210) with a configurable voice command-based user interface (according to feature (i) above), said dynamic control means (120) may be configured for processing voice commands containing a predefined distance for the respective one or more light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515), wherein said predefined distance is a distance for illuminating the forward path of said one or more operators (200). In any of the aforementioned forms of the present unified embodiment, said one or more electronic rotating beacons (510) may be configured for independent positioning in the operational setting by means of vertical support (520) for said one or more electronic rotating beacons. In such case, said support means may be one or more respective tripods (520). Furthermore, in any of the aforementioned forms of the present unified embodiment, said one or more electronic rotating beacons (510) may be networked, the dynamic control means (120) then being also connected to said network and configured for synchronization between the one or more electronic rotating beacons (510) for the maintenance of optimal coverage of the operating area. Likewise, in any of the aforementioned forms of the present unified embodiment, each of said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510) may be controlled by said dynamic control means (120) for the monitoring of at least one of said one or more operators (200). The system, in any of the aforementioned forms of the present unified embodiment, may further comprise at least one infrared camera, and said dynamic control means (120) may then comprise or communicate with an artificial intelligence (AI) trained for the recognition (550) of features of said area of ​​operations and / or the position of one or more operators (200) in the data of said at least one infrared camera. Optionally, in any of the above forms of the present unified embodiment, at least one of said one or more electronic rotating headlights (110, 410) is installed on a vehicle (100). Finally, in any of the above forms of the present unified embodiment, the tracking means (130) may be integrated into at least one of said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510). The foregoing describes preferred embodiments and suggests variants of the present invention, but it should be understood that those skilled in the art may make modifications and changes without leaving the scope of protection as defined in the attached claims.

Claims

1. Adaptive lighting system (110, 120, 130, 210, 510) for one or more operators (200) in an operating area, characterized in that it comprises: - one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510) arranged in the operating area, having the capacity for automated directing of one or more respective light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515); - means for tracking (130) the position of the one or more operators (200) with respect to said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510); - dynamic control means (120) of said one or more electronic rotating beacons, the dynamic control means being configured for the activation and / or direction of the respective one or more light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515) depending on the reciprocal position of said one or more operators (200) and of said one or more beacons (110, 410,510); wherein said dynamic control means (120) are configured for the automatic transition from one headlight to another of said one or more electronic rotating headlights (110) based on said position of the one or more operators (200), and for the direction of a light beam (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511-515) of said one or more respective light beams forward with respect to the position of said one or more operators (200) for illuminating a forward path of the one or more operators.

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises command communication means (210) from said one or more operators (200) to said dynamic control means (120).

3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the command communication means (210) comprises a user interface based on configurable touch gestures and / or configurable voice commands.

4. System according to claim 2,characterized in that the command communication means (210) comprise a user interface based on augmented reality (AR) glasses, with access for said one or more operators (200) to the real-time visualization and control of the activation and / or addressing of said one or more respective light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515) with respect to their own position.

5. System according to claim 3, characterized in that the dynamic control means (120) are configured for processing voice commands containing a predefined distance for the one or more respective light beams (111, 112, 113, 114, 411, 415, 511 - 515).

6. System according to any one of claims 1 to 5,characterized in that said one or more electronic rotating beacons (510) are configured for independent positioning in the operational area by means of vertical support means (520) for said one or more electronic rotating beacons.

7. System according to claim 6, characterized in that said support means are one or more respective tripods (520).

8. System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that said one or more electronic rotating beacons (510) are networked, the dynamic control means (120) also being connected to said network and configured for synchronizing the one or more electronic rotating beacons (510) with each other to maintain optimal coverage of the operational area.

9. System according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that each of said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410,510) is controlled by said dynamic control means (120) for monitoring at least one of said one or more operators (200).

10. System according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it further comprises at least one infrared camera, and said dynamic control means (120) comprise or communicate with an artificial intelligence (AI) trained for the recognition (550) of features of said operating area and / or the position of the one or more operators (200) in the data of said at least one infrared camera.

11. System according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one of said one or more electronic rotating headlights (110, 410) is installed on a vehicle (100).

12. System according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the tracking means (130) are integrated into at least one of said one or more electronic rotating beacons (110, 410, 510).