A method of detecting atmospheric conditions in a plurality of device detection zones

Abstract

A method of detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via a plurality of devices, each device being arranged to transmit, receive and / or process radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band; wherein the radio frequency signals can be affected by atmospheric conditions; wherein the method comprises the steps of: transmitting, by a first device of the plurality of devices, a first radio frequency signal intended to be received by a second device of the plurality of devices in order to perform a network communication function between the first device and the second device during a period of time; receiving, by the second device, the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and processing, by the second device, the received first radio frequency signal in order to perform the network communication function; wherein the method further comprises the steps of: selecting a third device from the plurality of devices based on the third device being in a physical location opposite the region in which the atmospheric conditions are to be detected; receiving, at the third device, the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and processing, by the third device, the received first radio frequency signal to determine the extent to which the atmospheric conditions in the region have affected the first RF signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices. The invention also relates to a system and computer program product for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices. Background Technology

[0002] Connected lighting refers to a system of one or more lighting devices that are not controlled by (or not only by) traditional wired, electrical switches, or dimmer circuits, but are controlled via data communication protocols using wired or more commonly wireless connections (such as wired or wireless networks). These connected lighting networks form what is commonly known as the Internet of Things (IoT), or more specifically, the Internet of Lighting (IoL). Typically, a lighting device, or even individual lights within a lighting device, may be equipped with a wireless receiver or transceiver that receives lighting control commands from the lighting control device according to wireless network protocols such as Zigbee, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.

[0003] Recent advancements in wireless network technology have led to the development of highly reliable, low-cost, and high-performance radios operating in the exotic domain (radio frequency (RF) spectrum) previously dominated by millimeter-wave frequencies. The name "millimeter-wave" derives from the fact that wavelengths in this band range from approximately 10 mm to less than 1 mm. While most of the millimeter-wave spectrum is licensed, a portion of the spectrum around 60 GHz is freely available for communications; this issue has been addressed by the standardization working group IEEE 802.11ay.

[0004] Communications in many fields are moving towards millimeter waves to avoid the congested 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz spectrum and enable broadband communication. Millimeter waves have many interesting properties, such as making it possible not only to communicate at this frequency but also to measure air quality.

[0005] WO 2015 / 077644 A1 discloses an intelligent street lighting system employing multiple streetlights, each having a illuminator, illuminator connectors, and support columns. A tamperable millimeter-wave radar is operatively coupled to a communication module contained within the illuminator connectors. The communication module operates in a radio frequency network in the frequency range of 57-64 GHz. The tamperable millimeter-wave radar provides a signal reflected from a target, which can be received by one of the illuminator connectors within the system. A power line communication system interfaces with the radio frequency network to provide communication between the communication module in the streetlight and a PLC system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The inventors have recognized that both RF-based air quality measurement and RF-based network communication can be advantageously provided via multiple devices in a spatially distributed wireless network within an area. The object of this invention is to provide improved air quality detection within an area using multiple (spatially distributed) devices.

[0007] According to the first aspect, the objective is achieved by a method that detects atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices, each device being arranged to transmit, receive, and / or process radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band; wherein the radio frequency signals may be affected by atmospheric conditions.

[0008] The method includes the following steps: a first device among a plurality of devices transmits a first radio frequency signal intended to be received by a second device among the plurality of devices, so as to perform a network communication function between the first device and the second device for a period of time; the second device receives the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and the second device processes the received first radio frequency signal in order to perform the network communication function.

[0009] The method further includes the following steps: selecting a third device from a plurality of devices based on the physical location of the third device relative to the area where atmospheric conditions are to be detected; receiving a transmitted first radio frequency signal at the third device; and processing the received first radio frequency signal by the third device to determine the extent to which atmospheric conditions in the area have affected the first radio frequency signal.

[0010] The method includes transmitting a first radio frequency (RF) signal by a first device and receiving the first RF signal by a second device. The first RF signal is intended for use by the second device to perform network communication functions over a period of time. In an example, the first RF signal may include a 60 GHz signal, and the predetermined frequency band may include millimeter (mm) bands, such as from 30 GHz to 300 GHz. The RF signal is susceptible to atmospheric conditions in the area through which it propagates from the first device transmitting the signal to the second / third device receiving the signal. The first and second devices, among a plurality of devices, may be part of a communication network, and a communication link may exist between them, at least during the time period. The communication link may be a communication channel connecting two or more communication devices.

[0011] A third device can be selected from a plurality of devices based on its physical location relative to the area where atmospheric conditions are to be detected. The third device can be located within or near the area. Atmospheric conditions can include the state of the atmosphere; for example, the conditions can include the state of the atmosphere in relation to one or more of the following: detecting air pollutants, detecting gaseous substances in the air, measuring humidity, moisture content in the air, rain, fog, snow, etc. Other examples of defining atmospheric conditions known to those skilled in the art are not excluded. The selected third device is arranged to receive a transmitted first radio frequency (RF) signal. In this example, the third device can sniff the first RF signal. Since the third device is also arranged to process the received first RF signal to determine the extent to which atmospheric conditions in the area have affected the first RF signal, detection of atmospheric conditions along the first RF signal transmission path from the first device to the third device is provided. This detection of atmospheric conditions can be referred to as RF-based atmospheric condition detection.

[0012] The degree to which the first radio frequency signal has been affected by atmospheric conditions is relevant to the detection of those conditions. In a simple example, if the first radio frequency is affected, the presence (yes / no) of atmospheric conditions (such as air pollutants) can at least be detected. In a more advanced embodiment, the degree to which the first radio frequency signal is affected determines the quantity of the atmospheric conditions (e.g., the quantity of air pollutants measured in appropriate units).

[0013] In an embodiment, during this time period, the third device may not have a communication link connecting the third device to the first device and / or the second device, such that the first radio frequency signal may not be intended for the third device.

[0014] In this example, the third device may not have a communication link with the first and / or second devices during that time period. The third device may be part of a communication network that includes the first and / or second devices, but it does not have a communication link with them during that time period. During subsequent time periods, the third device may have a communication link with the first and / or second devices. Alternatively, the third device may not be part of a communication network that includes the first and / or second devices, but it may receive and process the first radio frequency signal.

[0015] In an embodiment, a third device may be configured to transmit information about detected atmospheric conditions to one or more of a plurality of devices and / or to an external device (not part of the plurality of devices) over a subsequent time period.

[0016] The third device can advantageously transmit information about the detected atmospheric conditions to one or more of the plurality of devices. This information may include the degree to which the first radio frequency signal has been affected by the atmospheric conditions. One or more of the plurality of devices may also transmit the detected atmospheric conditions to a central server. Additionally and / or alternatively, the third device may transmit the detected atmospheric conditions to an external device, such as a central server device located in the cloud.

[0017] In an embodiment, the selection of a third device among a plurality of devices may be further based on the physical location of the third device relative to the physical location of the first device and / or the second device.

[0018] To further improve air quality detection in the area, the selection of a third device can be further based on its physical location relative to the physical locations of the first and / or second devices. For example, the selection can be based on the coverage area of ​​the transmitted first radio frequency signal, choosing a third device with a physical location within that coverage area. This is advantageous because if the third device is placed outside the coverage area of ​​the transmitted first frequency signal, it may be unable to receive the first radio frequency signal and therefore perform the processing for detecting atmospheric conditions. In another example, the physical location of the third device can be related to the transmission direction of the first radio frequency signal, such that the third device is positioned along the transmission direction.

[0019] In an embodiment, the third device may include an airlift device; and wherein at least one airlift device is selected based on the altitude difference between the selected at least one airlift device and the first device and / or the second device.

[0020] Where the altitude of the area where atmospheric conditions are to be monitored is higher than that of the first and / or second devices, the airborne device can be used for RF-based atmospheric condition detection. For example, the first device can be arranged to transmit a first radio frequency signal, and at least one airborne device can be arranged to receive and / or process the first radio frequency signal used for RF-based atmospheric condition detection.

[0021] In an embodiment, the selection of a third device among multiple devices may be further based on one or more of the following: the hardware capabilities of the third device, wireless interference near the third device, the altitude of the third device, and the orientation of the third device.

[0022] In this embodiment, several additional selection criteria are advantageously defined for the selection of the third device. For example, participating in RF-based atmospheric condition detection typically requires receiving and / or processing radio messages. This requires additional processing and memory resources, and therefore evaluating available processing and memory resources as a selection criterion is beneficial. Radio interference near the third device can also be an important factor in its selection. Evaluating interference and accessibility-related criteria makes it possible to avoid devices that may be subject to or have been identified (e.g., based on historical data) to suffer from radio interference that affects the device's ability to perform RF-based atmospheric condition detection. Additionally or alternatively, altitude can be an important factor in the selection of the third device, depending on the area to be monitored. For example, a third device installed at a high altitude (e.g., on a high point in urban terrain or on the top of a tall building) may be suitable because it can cover a larger area.

[0023] In an embodiment, the method may further include the steps of: receiving input during the time period or during a subsequent time period; wherein the input indicates tracking information of an atmospheric pollutant layer relative to the region; wherein the selection of a third device among a plurality of devices is also based on the tracking information according to the received input.

[0024] When an input (indicating tracking information for an atmospheric pollutant cloud) is received in a subsequent time period, the spatial location of the atmospheric pollutant cloud may differ from its spatial location in a previous time period. The selection of a third device can be based on the received input, for example, by selecting a third device from multiple devices based on its physical location relative to the atmospheric pollutant cloud. If the selected third device is no longer near the atmospheric pollutant cloud in a subsequent time period, the selected third device may cease processing the first radio frequency signal.

[0025] In this embodiment, the radio frequency signal can be modulated using broadband signal modulation techniques for network communication.

[0026] In this embodiment, network communication can use a wideband modulation method such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) to generate a unique mixture of radio frequency signals. For example, when a wideband is used to generate the first radio frequency signal, atmospheric conditions along the path from the first device to the third device characteristically affect the frequency mixing and thus improve the detection quality.

[0027] In this embodiment, during this time period, only the first device among the multiple devices can be allowed to transmit.

[0028] In this embodiment, during this time period, only one of the multiple devices (e.g., the first device) is permitted to transmit radio frequency signals. This helps reduce interference and further improves detection quality.

[0029] In an embodiment, the method may further include selecting the spectral intensity of a predetermined frequency band that exceeds a threshold.

[0030] In the example, the predetermined frequency band may include a dedicated test spectrum with high spectral intensity at frequencies absorbed by certain pollutants or air components, which can advantageously allow for more detailed analysis of RF-based atmospheric condition detection.

[0031] In one embodiment, the predetermined frequency band may include a calibrated test spectrum; wherein the first device may be arranged to transmit the calibrated test spectrum randomly, periodically, or on demand.

[0032] In this embodiment, a calibrated test spectrum can be used, which allows for easier and more stable measurements because typical communication spectra will vary over time. To avoid consuming too much airtime, this calibrated spectrum can be transmitted randomly or periodically, for example, once a day. Dedicated spectrum (or even a class of spectrum) can be used for improved analysis targeting specific atmospheric conditions or air pollution. This can be triggered, for example, when normal observations of the spectrum provide an initial indication, so that the observation can be confirmed in a second measurement cycle optimized for suspicious points in the first path.

[0033] In one embodiment, the plurality of devices may include at least one lighting device; and the first radio frequency signal may include a lighting control command for controlling the lighting device.

[0034] In this advantageous embodiment, the multiple devices may include at least one lighting device, such as an outdoor lighting device (e.g., a lamppost) or an indoor lighting device. In an outdoor environment, the lamppost infrastructure can be advantageously utilized to combine RF-based atmospheric condition detection with RF-based network communication; wherein the RF-based network communication can be used to control the light output of the lamppost. For example, the RF-based network communication can be used to control the color, color temperature, intensity, beam width, beam direction, illumination intensity, and / or other parameters of one or more light sources of at least one lighting device.

[0035] According to the second aspect, this objective is achieved by a third device for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region; comprising: a communication unit arranged for transmitting and / or receiving radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band; and a processing unit configured to process the radio frequency signals to detect atmospheric conditions. The processing may include determining the extent to which atmospheric conditions in the region have affected the radio frequency signals.

[0036] According to the third aspect, the objective is achieved by a system for detecting atmospheric conditions via multiple devices in a region; each device is arranged to transmit, receive and / or process radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band; wherein the radio frequency signals may be affected by atmospheric conditions; wherein the system includes: a controller arranged to perform the steps of the method according to the first aspect; a first device and a second device according to the first aspect; and a third device according to the second aspect.

[0037] According to the fourth aspect, this objective is achieved by a computer program product including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of the method according to the first aspect.

[0038] It should be understood that computer program products, systems, and devices may have similar and / or the same embodiments and advantages as the methods described above. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the above and additional objects, features, and advantages of the disclosed systems, devices, and methods will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 An embodiment of a system for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices is illustrated schematically and exemplary.

[0041] Figure 2 An embodiment of a method for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices is illustrated schematically and exemplary.

[0042] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating, and demonstrating, is shown schematically and exemplary, illustrating a method for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices; and

[0043] Figure 4 An apparatus for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region is illustrated schematically and exemplary.

[0044] All accompanying drawings are schematic and not necessarily to scale, and generally only show the parts necessary to illustrate the invention, where other parts may be omitted or only suggested. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Communications in many sectors are moving towards millimeter-wave bands to avoid the congested 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz spectrum and enable broadband communication. For example, this could be the last-mile connection between locations with fiber optic access (such as on building rooftops) and lampposts, which would use available data rates not only for lighting control but also for, for example, public Wi-Fi facilities, security camera image backhaul, or other data-intensive services.

[0046] Millimeter waves possess many interesting properties, making it possible not only for communication at these frequencies but also, for example, for measuring air quality. The millimeter wave (30-300 GHz) band contains many fundamental rotational resonant frequencies of molecular gases composed of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur. The high specificity of the rotational spectrum for organic molecules provides the millimeter wave spectrum with potential applications in remote sensing atmospheric conditions. The detection of airborne chemicals is increasingly important for environmental monitoring. For example, monitoring and / or measuring air pollutants caused by industrial waste, biodegradable waste, etc.

[0047] Figure 1 An embodiment of a system 100 for detecting atmospheric conditions in an area via multiple devices 110a-i in a wireless network is illustrated schematically and exemplary. Each device 110a-i may be arranged to transmit, receive, and / or process radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band, for example, for RF-based network communication and RF-based atmospheric condition detection. The predetermined frequency band may include a millimeter wave band. Millimeter waves (also known as millimeter wave bands) are spectrum bands between 30 GHz and 300 GHz. Radio frequency signals may include 60 GHz signals. RF-based network communication may include 60 GHz Wi-Fi communication (WiGig), 5G technology, etc. The use of any other wireless technologies known in the art for such millimeter waves is not excluded. Radio frequency signals may possess characteristics that make them susceptible to atmospheric conditions in the area they pass through, such that when a first radio frequency signal propagates from one device in that area to another, this characteristic is affected and can be observed at the receiving device. For example, the receiving device may process the received first radio frequency signal to determine the effect of this characteristic, and through this determination, the affected characteristic leads to atmospheric condition detection.

[0048] exist Figure 1 In this example, multiple devices 110a-i are exemplarily shown as lampposts. The multiple devices 110a-i can be sensor devices, gateways, or any other type of device with network communication capabilities. The multiple devices 110a-i (in this example, lampposts) can be connected in a mesh network such that each of the multiple devices 110a-i has a communication link 115 with its neighboring device 110a-i, such as... Figure 1The dotted line 115 is shown in the diagram. Other network topologies, such as star topologies, are also possible. In such a (lighting) system 100, multiple (lighting) devices are not controlled by (or not only by) conventional wired, electric switches, or dimmer circuits, but are controlled via data communication protocols using wired or more common wireless connections (e.g., wired or wireless networks), such as according to wireless network protocols such as Zigbee, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. Therefore, radio frequency signals can include lighting control commands for controlling the light output of the lighting devices 110a-i.

[0049] Atmospheric conditions 130 may include the state of the atmosphere. Atmospheric conditions may include air pollutants. Air pollutants 130 are substances that accumulate in the air to a degree that is harmful to living organisms or materials exposed to the air. Common air pollutants 130 include particulate matter, smog, and gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen and sulfur oxides, and hydrocarbon smoke. While gaseous pollutants are generally invisible, solid or liquid pollutants in particulate matter and smog are easily visible. Atmospheric conditions may include rain (raindrop particles), fog, snow, etc.

[0050] The first, second, and / or third device can be selected based on the physical location of devices 110a-i relative to the area where atmospheric conditions 130 are to be monitored. For example, the first device may include device 110d, which is included in the area where atmospheric conditions 130 are to be monitored. The third device may include device 110b, the selection of which may also be based on, for example, the physical location of the third device 110b relative to the area where atmospheric conditions 130 are to be detected. The selection of the third device may be further based on the relative physical location of the third device 110b relative to the physical locations of the first and / or second devices 110d. For example, this relative physical location may be related to the reachability of a first radio frequency signal.

[0051] A first device 110d may be arranged to transmit a first radio frequency (RF) signal over a period of time, which may be affected by atmospheric conditions 130. The first RF signal is intended to be received by a second device 110e. The second device 110e may be arranged to receive and process the first RF signal for network communication. A third device 110b (which may not have a communication link with the first device 110d) may then be arranged to receive the first RF signal transmitted by the first device 110d; and to process the received first RF signal to determine the extent to which atmospheric conditions in the area have affected the first RF signal. The extent to which the first RF signal has been affected can provide detection and monitoring of atmospheric conditions 130 in the area. For example, the extent to which the first RF signal has been affected is related to detecting the presence (yes / no) of atmospheric pollutants 130, detecting the amount of atmospheric pollutants 130 in the atmosphere, etc. Atmospheric conditions may include gaseous substances in the air, humidity, moisture content in the air, etc. The concentration of gaseous substances in the air may vary due to effects such as ozone during clear weather. Other examples of defining atmospheric conditions are not excluded. In examples, the first / second and / or third device may include a set of devices.

[0052] The selection of the first, second, and / or third devices 110d, 110e, 110b can be further based on the hardware capabilities of multiple devices, such as devices 110a-i that can be selected with transceivers that support the millimeter-wave band and processors that process the millimeter-wave band.

[0053] Radio interference near devices 110a-i can be an important factor in selecting the first / second and / or third devices 110d, 110e, 110b, because devices affected by high levels of radio interference may not be suitable for performing RF-based atmospheric condition 130 detection.

[0054] Furthermore, based on the area to be monitored, altitude can be considered to select the first / second and / or third devices 110d, 110e, 110b. For example, devices installed on the roof of a high-rise building can be candidates for performing RF-based atmospheric condition 130 detection and RF-based network communication to cover a larger area at high altitudes.

[0055] System 110 may also include an airlift device 120, wherein at least one airlift device 120 can be selected as a third device based on the altitude difference between the selected at least one airlift device (third device) and the first and / or second devices to detect atmospheric conditions 130. In this example, the airlift device 120 is a helicopter, but other types of airlift devices 120 (e.g., drones, UAVs, balloons, etc.) can be used. In an alternative example, to perform RF-based atmospheric condition 130 detection, the airlift device 120 can be arranged to act as a first device transmitting a first radio frequency signal, and other devices 110d, 110a, 110b, 110e, 110g, and 110h can be arranged to act as receivers receiving the first radio frequency signal and processing the received first radio frequency signal to detect atmospheric conditions 130. In the example, a satellite transmitter can also be used. In such an example of a satellite transmitter, atmospheric conditions such as forest fires or volcanic eruptions can be detected with improved accuracy.

[0056] System 100 may include a controller (not shown) that can be configured to control multiple devices (each of which) and may be implemented in a unit separate from the multiple devices 110a-i, such as a wallpanel, desktop computer terminal, or even a portable terminal (such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone). Alternatively, the controller may be incorporated into the same unit as the multiple devices 110a-i. Furthermore, the controller may be implemented in the region or remotely (e.g., on servers at different geographic locations); and the controller may be implemented in a single unit or as a distributed function distributed across multiple independent units (e.g., a distributed server comprising multiple server units at one or more geographic locations, or a distributed control function distributed across multiple devices 110a-i). Additionally, the controller may be implemented as software stored on memory (including one or more memory devices) and arranged for execution on a processor (including one or more processing units), or the controller may be implemented as dedicated hardware circuitry, or configurable or reconfigurable circuitry (such as a PGA or FPGA), or any combination thereof.

[0057] In the example, atmospheric condition 130 can be a layer of atmospheric pollutants, such as a pollutant cloud (e.g., toxins in the air). An example of a pollutant cloud is an atmospheric brown cloud, which is generated by a series of airborne particles and pollutants from combustion (e.g., forest fires, automobiles, and factories), biomass burning, and industrial processes with incomplete combustion. During this time period, atmospheric detection is performed by this group of devices (e.g., the first, second, and third devices).

[0058] In subsequent time periods, the spatial position of atmospheric pollutant 130 may change in one direction (not shown) relative to the area. The atmospheric pollutant cloud 130 may move, expand, or contract over time. Input including tracking information may be received in subsequent time periods. This input, including tracking information, may be generated by a (wireless) network comprising multiple devices 110a-i or by an external network. The tracking information may include the spatial position of the (moving / expanding / contracting) atmospheric pollutant 130 relative to the area. Based on the received input, a subset of selected devices (first / second and / or third devices) may be modified.

[0059] Figure 2 An embodiment of a method for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices 210a-d is illustrated schematically and exemplary. During time period t1, a first device 210a may transmit a first radio frequency (RF) signal intended to be received by a second device 210b to perform network communication functions between the first device 210a and the second device 210b. The network communication functions may include a set of (communication) protocols that allow the multiple devices 210a-d to communicate with each other and exchange data (e.g., message packets) regardless of hardware and operating system. The transmitted first RF signal may be received by the second device 210b; and processed by the second device 210b to perform the network communication functions. In the example, the second device 210b may also transmit an RF signal intended for use with the first device 210 (shown by dashed lines). Transmission and reception may be performed during time period t1. In this example figure, the multiple devices 210a-d include lampposts, and the first RF signal may include lighting control commands for controlling the light output of the lampposts.

[0060] A third device 210d may be arranged to receive the transmitted first radio frequency signal. In the example, during time period t1, the third device 210d does not have a communication link with the first device 210a and / or the second device 210b. The third device 210d may not be involved in communication with the first device 210a, at least such that the first radio frequency signal is not intended to be received by the third device 210d. In the example, the third device 210d may sniff the first radio frequency signal. The third device 210d may receive the first radio frequency signal along path 220. The third device 210d may process the received first radio frequency signal during time period t1 and / or in subsequent time periods to determine atmospheric conditions in the area.

[0061] In the example, depending on whether beamforming is used, transmission from the second device 210b to the first device 210a may not be easily receivable at the third device 210d because the beamforming antenna focuses radio frequency energy in the direction of the first device 210a. However, when the first device 210a /

[0062] When the second device 210b and the third device 210d are located, for example, on a line, the first radio frequency signal transmitted from the first device 210a toward the second device 210b will be receptive, where typical attenuation depends on atmospheric conditions and distance.

[0063] In the example, the (first) radio frequency signal can be modulated using broadband signal modulation techniques used for network communication. For example, if the network communication is using a broad-spectrum method (such as OFDM), a first radio frequency signal with a unique frequency mix can be generated. The first radio frequency signal, as received by the second device 210b, can be less affected by atmospheric conditions. Typically, these network communication techniques only use relatively low frequency components in the transmission to maintain a high SNR.

[0064] However, because the first radio frequency signal must travel a much longer distance 220 to reach the third device 210d, the transmission characteristics can affect the first radio frequency signal. When the third device 210d knows the original spectral composition of the first radio frequency signal and the composition monitored by the surrounding multiple devices 210a-d, it can use the first radio frequency signal and even infer the determination of atmospheric conditions (such as the density of certain resonant molecules) without actively generating a test radio frequency signal.

[0065] In the example, a first radio frequency (RF) signal (e.g., the spectral composition of the first RF signal) received at a second device 210b (or another device 210c among multiple devices) is compared with a first RF signal received at a third device 210d to generate a frequency-dependent attenuation. The third device 210d can process the received first RF signal to determine the extent to which atmospheric conditions in the area have affected the first RF signal. The distance factor affecting the received first RF signal can be obtained from the installation diagram during installation to determine the impact of atmospheric conditions.

[0066] In the example, when the third device 210d comprises a group of devices (not shown), spectral components can be collected from that group of devices at a central server (not shown). Here, the associated grouped spectra can be processed. Differences in the spectral components can be used to determine atmospheric conditions. Alternatively, one of the devices from the selected group of third devices can be used to perform this processing.

[0067] The third device 210d may be configured to transmit information about detected atmospheric conditions to one or more of the plurality of devices 210a-d and / or to an external device (not shown) during a subsequent time period t2. This external device may be a central server.

[0068] Figure 3A flowchart is schematically and exemplary illustrating a method 300 for detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via multiple devices 110a-i, each device 110a-i being arranged to transmit, receive, and / or process radio frequency (RF) signals in a predetermined frequency band. The RF signals can be affected by atmospheric conditions. For example, the predetermined frequency band may include a millimeter-wave band, and the RF signals may include 60 GHz signals. Millimeter waves occupy the spectrum from 30 GHz to 300 GHz. They exist in the spectrum between microwaves (1 GHz to 30 GHz) and infrared (IR) waves, a spectrum sometimes referred to as extremely high frequency (EHF). The wavelength (λ) is in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. Method 300 may include step 310 where a first device 110d, 210a of a plurality of devices 110a-i, 210a-d transmits a first radio frequency signal, the first radio frequency signal being intended to be received by a second device 110e, 210b of the plurality of devices 110a-i, 210a-d, to perform network communication functions between the first device 110d, 210a and the second device 110e, 210b during time period t1. Method 300 may also include step 320 where the second devices 110e, 210b receive the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and step 330 where the second devices 110e, 210b process the received first radio frequency signal to perform network communication functions. To improve the detection accuracy of atmospheric conditions, only the first devices 110d, 210a may be allowed to transmit during time period t1.

[0069] In the example, the spectral intensity of the predetermined frequency band can be selected to exceed a threshold. Such a high spectral intensity at frequencies absorbed by certain pollutants or air components allows for more detailed analysis. This will allow for amplification of radio frequency energy at frequencies of interest, and even observation at increased distances. In the example, this spectral component can be generated on demand only if the first result requires more detailed information. In another example, this spectral component burst can be a pre-calculated data packet. In yet another example, the spectral components at the first devices 110d, 210a can be predetermined and known, for example, for multiple devices (also allowing processing at the third devices 110b, 210d).

[0070] In the example, the predetermined frequency band may include a calibrated test spectrum; wherein the first devices 110d and 210a may be arranged to transmit the calibrated test spectrum randomly or periodically. Since typical communication spectrum will vary over time, a calibrated test spectrum allows for simpler and more stable measurements. To avoid consuming too much broadcast time, this calibrated spectrum may be transmitted only infrequently, for example, once a day.

[0071] Method 300 may further include step 340 of selecting third devices 110b and 210d from among a plurality of devices 110a-i and 210a-d based on the physical location of third devices 110b and 210d relative to the area where atmospheric conditions 130 are to be detected. This selection may be further based on the radio frequency reachability of a first radio frequency signal, for example, based on the physical location of third devices 110b and 210d relative to the first / second devices. Method 300 may further include step 350 of receiving a transmitted first radio frequency signal at third devices 110b and 210d; and step 360 of processing the received first radio frequency signal by third devices 110b and 210d to determine the extent to which atmospheric conditions 130 in the area have affected the first radio frequency signal. The extent to which the first radio frequency signal has been affected is proportional to, for example, the detection of atmospheric conditions 130. In one example, more than one third device 110b or 210d is selected. In another example, all devices with physical locations are selected, the physical locations being included in or near the area where atmospheric conditions are to be detected. Attached to and / or replacing the previous example selection, select (all) devices that can receive the transmitted first radio signal (e.g., have sufficient signal strength to process the signal).

[0072] Figure 4 A (third) device for detecting atmospheric conditions in an area is illustrated schematically and exemplary. As an example, (third) device 410 is shown as a lighting device or illuminator with a light source 411. Illuminator 410 is a device or structure arranged to emit light suitable for illuminating the environment, thereby providing or substantially contributing to illumination at a scale appropriate for that purpose. Illuminator 410 includes at least one light source 411 or lamp, such as an LED-based lamp, a gas discharge lamp, or a filament bulb, and optionally any associated bracket, housing, or other such enclosure. Each illuminator 410 can take any of a variety of forms, such as a ceiling-mounted illuminator, a wall-mounted illuminator, a wall washer, or a freestanding illuminator (and illuminators need not all be of the same type), an outdoor light pole, etc.

[0073] (Third) Device 410 may include a communication unit 413, which may be arranged for transmitting and / or receiving radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band. Communication unit 413 allows the device to communicate with other devices 110a-i, 210a-d and / or (not shown) a central controller (such as a lighting controller and / or building management system (BMS)) via input / output interface unit 414. Communication unit 413 may include a wireless transceiver and may provide communication via radio frequency using protocols such as Wi-Fi (including 60 GHz WiGig), Bluetooth, or Zigbee. Input / output interface 414 may be used to receive input in subsequent time periods; wherein the input indicates tracking information of an atmospheric pollutant layer relative to a selected subset of devices.

[0074] Device 410 may include memory cell 412, such as one or more random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), dynamic random access memories (DRAM), fast cycle RAM (FCRAM), static RAM (SRAM), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROMs), electrically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs), microcontrollers, or microprocessors. Memory cell 412 may be arranged to store a received first radio frequency signal used for RF-based atmospheric condition detection.

[0075] Device 410 may include a processing unit 415 arranged for processing the first radio frequency signal. Some steps of method 300 may be performed by the processing unit 415 of (third) device 410.

[0076] When the computer program product is running on the processing unit of a computing device (such as the controller of system 100), method 300 can be executed by the computer program code of the computer program product.

[0077] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative and not limiting of the invention, and those skilled in the art will be able to devise many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0078] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The use of the verb "comprising" and its variations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in the claims. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer or processing unit. In an apparatus claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are referenced in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0079] Various aspects of the present invention can be implemented in a computer program product, which may be a collection of computer program instructions stored on a computer-readable storage device, the computer program instructions being executable by a computer. The instructions of the present invention can be any interpretable or executable code mechanism, including but not limited to scripts, interpretable programs, dynamic link libraries (DLLs), or Java classes. The instructions may be provided as a complete executable program, a partial executable program, as a modification (e.g., an update) of an existing program, or as an extension (e.g., a plug-in) of an existing program. Furthermore, portions of the processing of the present invention may be distributed across multiple computers or processors or even the “cloud.”

[0080] Storage media suitable for storing computer program instructions include all forms of non-volatile memory, including but not limited to EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices, disks such as internal and external hard drives, removable disks, and CD-ROMs. Computer program products may be distributed on such storage media or made available for download via HTTP, FTP, email, or through a server connected to a network (such as the Internet).

Claims

1. A method of detecting atmospheric conditions in a region via a plurality of devices, each device being arranged to transmit, receive and / or process radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band; wherein the radio frequency signals are susceptible to atmospheric conditions; wherein the method comprises the steps of: transmitting, by a first device of the plurality of devices, a first radio frequency signal intended for reception by a second device of the plurality of devices, so as to perform a network communication function between the first device and the second device during a time period; receiving, by the second device, the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and processing, by the second device, the received first radio frequency signal so as to perform the network communication function; wherein the method further comprises the steps of: selecting, from the plurality of devices, a third device based on a physical location of the third device opposite to the region where the atmospheric conditions are to be detected; sniffing, at the third device, the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and processing, by the third device, the sniffed first radio frequency signal to determine a degree to which the atmospheric conditions in the region have affected the first radio frequency signal; wherein, during the time period, the third device does not have a communication link connecting the third device with the first device and / or the second device, such that the first radio frequency signal is not used to perform a network communication function between the first device and the third device.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the third device is arranged to transmit, to one or more of the plurality of devices and / or to an external device, which is not part of the plurality of devices, information about the detected atmospheric conditions in a subsequent time period.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the selection of the third device of the plurality of devices is further based on a physical location of the third device opposite to a physical location of the first device and / or the second device.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the third device comprises a flying device; and wherein the at least one flying device is selected based on a difference in altitude between the selected at least one flying device and the first device and / or the second device.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the selection of the third device of the plurality of devices is further based on one or more of: a hardware capability of the third device, a wireless interference close to the third device, an altitude of the third device, an orientation of the third device, a currently available processing power, a standby power of the third device.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the method further comprises the steps of: receiving an input during the time period or during a subsequent time period; wherein the input is indicative of tracking information of an atmospheric pollutant layer relative to the region; wherein the selection of the third device of the plurality of devices is further based on the tracking information according to the received input.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the radio frequency signals are modulated using a wideband signal modulation technique for network communication.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, during the time period, only the first device is permitted to transmit among the plurality of devices.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: selecting a spectral intensity of the predetermined frequency band that exceeds a threshold value.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the predetermined frequency band comprises a calibration test spectrum; wherein the first device is arranged for transmitting the calibration test spectrum randomly, periodically and / or on demand.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of devices comprises at least one lighting device; and wherein the first radio frequency signal comprises a lighting control command for controlling a lighting device.

12. A system for detecting atmospheric conditions via a plurality of devices in a region; each device being arranged for transmitting, receiving and / or processing radio frequency signals in a predetermined frequency band; wherein the radio frequency signal is susceptible to influence by the atmospheric condition; wherein the system comprises: a controller arranged for performing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-11; a first device arranged for: transmitting a first radio frequency signal intended for reception by a second device of the plurality of devices, so as to perform a network communication function between the first device and the second device during a time period; the second device arranged for: receiving the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and processing the received first radio frequency signal so as to perform the network communication function; a third device arranged for: sniffing, at the third device, the transmitted first radio frequency signal; and processing, by the third device, the sniffed first radio frequency signal to determine a degree to which the atmospheric condition in the area has influenced the first radio frequency signal; wherein during the time period the third device does not have a communication link connecting the third device with the first device and / or the second device, such that the first radio frequency signal is not used to perform a network communication function between the first device and the third device.

13. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the steps of the method of any one of claims 1-11.

Images