System arrangement for autonomous operation of sensors for the lighting infrastructure

Abstract

The present invention provides a control module for a street lighting system. The control module is designed to provide power and communication capabilities to at least one module during periods when the street lighting system is unpowered. The module comprises a battery, a charging circuitry configured to charge the battery during periods when the street lighting means is powered, and manage operations of the control module. The control module is configured to provide power to the at least one module during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered; collect data from the module; and transmit the collected data to the external system or store the collected data for later transmission.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of street lighting systems, more specifically, to systems that incorporate sensing and communication functionalities into street luminaires. The invention is relevant to smart city infrastructure, where streetlights play a role beyond illumination, contributing to data collection and communication networks.BACKGROUND

[0002] Street lighting systems are essential components of urban infrastructure, designed to provide illumination during specific periods, typically nighttime hours. The streetlight pole is disconnected from the AC grid during daylight hours, making it necessary to rely on the offline power module for operation during this time. This operational pattern poses challenges for integrating additional functionalities, such as environmental sensing and communication capabilities, which may be required to operate independently of the lighting schedule.

[0003] Prior art solutions, such as sensor-equipped interfaces attached to streetlight posts or housings, enable some level of environmental monitoring and communication. For instance, certain products incorporate sensor systems for detecting traffic, movement, or air quality, and for transmitting data to cloud-based platforms. These interfaces are often directly dependent on the availability of power from the street lighting system, limiting their operational capacity to the periods when the streetlight is active.

[0004] There is a growing need for street lighting systems to provide continuous sensing and communication capabilities, independent of their illumination schedules, to support advanced functionalities and data-driven applications in smart cities.SUMMARY

[0005] In view of the above-discussed limitations, the objective of this invention is to introduce an innovative converter architecture that can support wide output voltage ranges while maintaining efficient operation and soft-switching characteristics. One objective is to enable power converters to dynamically adapt to varying output voltages without compromising performance. Additionally, the invention aims to achieve this adaptability with a simplified control mechanism, reducing complexity and enhancing reliability in a wide range of operating conditions.

[0006] These and other objectives are achieved by the solution of this disclosure as described in the independent claims. Advantageous implementations are further defined in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a control module for a street lighting system is disclosed. The control module is designed to provide power and communication capabilities to at least one module of the street lighting system during periods when the street lighting system is unpowered. The module comprises a battery, a control circuitry configured to charge the battery off a power source of the street lighting system during periods when the street lighting means is powered, and manage operations of the control module. The control module is configured to provide power from the battery to the at least one module during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered; collect data from the at least one module; and transmit the collected data to an external system or store the collected data for later transmission.

[0008] The proposed control module allows modules (e.g., sensors) integrated within the street lighting system to remain operational during unpowered periods, ensuring continuous environmental monitoring or other sensor functionalities. The communication capability of the control module enables seamless integration with external systems, facilitating real-time data exchange or delayed data retrieval. This capability enhances the utility and adaptability of the street lighting system, particularly in smart city applications.

[0009] Optionally, the data may be first stored locally and transmit it as a batch during powered periods. This configuration optimizes energy usage and ensures reliable data transfer even in scenarios with intermittent communication availability. This flexibility makes the system highly adaptable for smart city and IoT applications.

[0010] According to an implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the at least one module comprises at least one sensor, wherein the control module further comprises an interface configured to connect to the at least one sensor, wherein the interface is configured to conform to at least one industry standard socket, optionally a Zhaga socket, or a NEMA socket.

[0011] This feature provides the advantage of ease of integration with a variety of sensors and devices. By adhering to widely accepted standards, the module facilitates interoperability, reduces customization costs, and allows for straightforward upgrades or replacements of connected components. Notably, the industry-standard socket, such as the Zhaga socket or the NEMA socket, can be positioned remotely from the housing of the control module.

[0012] According to another implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the control module further comprises communication means configured to enable data exchange between the control module and the external system.

[0013] The inclusion of communication means enables seamless integration with external systems, facilitating real-time data exchange or delayed data retrieval.

[0014] According to another implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the communication means comprises a wireless communication interface for data exchange between the control module and the external system, or a wired communication interface, preferably compatible with the Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) standard.

[0015] This feature offers the advantage of reliable and standardized data communication, ensuring compatibility with widely used systems. It also provides the advantage of flexibility in system configuration, as wireless communication eliminates the need for physical data transfer connections. This can simplify installation, reduce maintenance complexity, and improve system scalability, especially in large-scale street lighting deployments. A wired interface may also provide increased security and robustness against wireless interference, making it ideal for sensitive or high-reliability applications.

[0016] According to an implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the communication means is configured to be positioned remotely from a housing of the control module, allowing placement anywhere across the street lighting system.

[0017] It may be understood that the control module is an offline power and communication box. It is important to note that the communication means and the sensor are not required to be arranged within the box itself or the housing of the control module. Instead, they can be positioned remotely anywhere along the street lighting infrastructure, providing flexibility in system design. This flexibility facilitates customized configurations, reduces hardware dependencies, and supports broader deployment scenarios where sensors and communication units may be installed in optimal positions across the street lighting network.

[0018] According to a further implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the control module further comprises a memory configured to store collected data from the at least one module for subsequent transmission to the external system.

[0019] The stored data can be transmitted as a batch during periods when the street lighting system is powered. This feature ensures efficient data handling and energy management by allowing delayed transmission during optimal periods, such as when the mains power is available. It guarantees data preservation and reduces energy consumption during unpowered periods, enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability.

[0020] According to another implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the control module is configured to receive data from the external system.

[0021] Possibly, the data may include firmware updates, configuration data, or commissioning commands. This feature enhances the adaptability and longevity of the control module by enabling remote updates and reconfigurations, even during periods when the lighting system is not operational. By allowing communication from the cloud, the system minimizes downtime and maintenance costs, ensuring efficient operation of the sensors and their control units while supporting scalability and integration into smart infrastructure.

[0022] According to another implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the control module further comprises a routing means configured to provide power and communication lines to at least one additional device connected to the street lighting system.

[0023] This feature extends the module's functionality by enabling it to support additional devices such as sensors or communication antennas. This capability promotes modularity and scalability within the street lighting system, accommodating diverse use cases.

[0024] According to another implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the additional device comprises another sensor or a communication antenna positioned remotely from the control module.

[0025] This feature offers the advantage of extending the operational range and coverage of the street lighting system, enabling comprehensive environmental monitoring or enhanced communication capabilities.

[0026] According to another implementation of the first aspect of the invention, the control module is physically separable from the street lighting means and configurable for placement at a location distinct from the street lighting means.

[0027] This feature enhances the flexibility of system design and deployment. A separable control module can be strategically positioned to optimize sensor performance or ease of access for maintenance, ensuring efficient and user-friendly operation.

[0028] According to a second aspect of the invention, a street lighting system is disclosed, comprising a street lighting means and a control module as described in the first aspect of the invention.

[0029] This configuration allows the street lighting system to maintain sensor functionality during unpowered periods while leveraging the advanced features of the control module, such as data communication and adaptability, to enhance overall system performance and integration.

[0030] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method for operating a control module in a street lighting system is disclosed. The method involves receiving power from a power source during powered periods, charging a battery within the control module, powering at least one connected modules from the battery during unpowered periods, collecting and transmitting or storing collected data from the connected module, and enabling communication with external systems.

[0031] This method ensures efficient energy usage and data management, maintaining sensor functionality and supporting smart city applications through seamless integration and adaptability.

[0032] All steps that are performed by the various components described in this application, as well as the functionalities described to be performed by the various components, are intended to mean that the respective component is adapted to or configured to perform the respective steps and functionalities. Even if, in the following description of specific embodiments, a specific functionality or step to be performed by external components is not reflected in the description of a specific detailed element of that component that performs that specific step or functionality, it should be clear to a skilled person that these methods and functionalities can be implemented in respective software or hardware elements, or any kind of combination thereof.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0033] The above-described aspects and implementation forms are now further explained with respect to the drawings by way of example only, and not for limitation. In the drawings: Figure 1shows an exemplary control module according to an embodiment of this invention. Figure 2shows a conventional street lighting setup. Figure 3shows an exemplary control module according to an embodiment of this invention. Figure 4shows an exemplary control module according to an embodiment of this invention. Figure 5shows a method according to an embodiment of this invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0034] Illustrative embodiments of a control module, a system, and a method for operating the control module are described with reference to the figures. Although this description provides a detailed example of possible implementations, it should be noted that the details are intended to be exemplary and in no way limit the scope of the application.

[0035] An embodiment / example may refer to other embodiments / examples. For example, any description including but not limited to terminology, element, process, explanation, and / or technical advantage mentioned in one embodiment / example is applicable to the other embodiments / examples. The same elements are labeled with the same reference signs and may function similarly or likewise.

[0036] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a control module 10 for a street lighting system 1. The control module 10 is designed to provide power and communication capabilities to at least one other module 21 of the street lighting system 1, during periods when the street lighting system 1 is not energized, e.g., not supplied with AC mains power. In one possible implementation, the control module is a standalone unit physically separated from the luminaire, configured to independently power and manage operations for connected sensors and communication devices. In another possible implementation, the control module may be installed together with the other electronics in the luminaire.

[0037] Referring to Figure 1, the control module 10 include a battery 11. A rechargeable battery and circuitry to charge the battery are integrated into the module to provide power during periods when the luminaire of the street lighting system is unpowered. The battery stores energy supplied by the luminaire's power source when available.

[0038] The control module 10 further comprises a control circuitry 12 configured to charge the battery 11 off a power source (e.g., AC main power) of the street lighting means during periods when the street lighting means is powered. For instance, the control circuitry 12 may include a charging circuit connected to the luminaire's mains power supply. This connection may utilize Live (L) and Neutral (N) lines, and in certain cases, it may also include a Protective Earth (PE) wire to comply with applicable safety regulations. The specific configuration of the charging circuit connections can vary depending on the design requirements and regulatory standards applicable to the installation environment.

[0039] In one example, when the street lighting means is supplied with an AC mains power, during powered periods, the control circuitry 12 may convert the incoming AC power into DC power to charge the battery 11.

[0040] The control circuitry 12 (Block "Power & DATA Manager" shown in Figure 1) also manages the operations of the module, including battery management, sensor operation, and communication functions.

[0041] The control circuitry 12 is configured to collect data from connected sensors and transmit it to an external system, such as a cloud platform, either in real-time or in batches.

[0042] Possible, the at least one module 21 comprises at least one sensor. Optionally, the control module 10 may further comprise an interface 13 configured to connect to the at least one sensor. These sensors may collect environmental data such as traffic, presence, movement, or air quality. Notably, the interface 13 may be configured to conform to at least one industry standard socket 14.

[0043] In one implementation, the interface 13 refers to a functional and physical connection point that is designed to work with or match the specifications of an industry-standard socket, such as a Zhaga socket or a NEMA socket.

[0044] The Zhaga socket is an industry-standard interface commonly used in smart and connected street lighting systems. It is designed to facilitate easy integration of sensors, communication modules, and other devices into lighting fixtures. The Zhaga socket provides a smaller, low-profile connector suited for modern LED luminaires, which is commonly used for occupancy sensors, light-level detectors, and communication modules. It also ensures compatibility between devices and luminaires across manufacturers, and enables straightforward attachment and replacement of devices without rewiring.

[0045] The NEMA socket is a larger, more traditional industry-standard interface for outdoor lighting systems. It has been widely used in legacy and modern systems for connecting control modules to streetlights.

[0046] Both support smart lighting functions, but Zhaga sockets are more commonly adopted in newer smart city deployments due to their sleek design. NEMA sockets remain prevalent in areas with legacy systems or where robustness is prioritized. However, this invention is not limited to these standards, allowing for flexibility in implementation.

[0047] It may be understood that the interface 13 either integrates the socket 14 directly or is compatible with a socket 14 that meets the specified standards. It is important to note that the socket 14 itself may be positioned remotely from the housing of the control module 10.

[0048] The control module 10 may be further equipped with communication means that enable data exchange with external systems. Communication can be wire-bound, wireless, or both, depending on the implementation.

[0049] Supported communication protocols may include industry standards such as DALI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks.

[0050] As shown in the left part of Figure 1, the control module 10 may be attached to the post of a street light.

[0051] It may be understood that the module 10 may be enclosed in a weatherproof and durable housing to protect against environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures.

[0052] Notably, Figure 1 also shows a street lighting system 1 comprising a street lighting means (not shown in the figure), and said control module 10.

[0053] The present invention relates to an advanced street lighting system capable of providing sensing and communication functionalities during periods when the lighting means of the street luminaire is unpowered.

[0054] Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary socket (left) and a conventional street lighting setup with the socket (right), which relies on direct integration of sensors and communication modules within or near the luminaire housing. In this design, the sensors and communication devices are powered directly by the same AC mains that power the lighting means. When the AC mains is turned off (e.g., during daytime), the sensors and communication functionalities are also disabled.

[0055] The sensors and communication modules are typically installed within the luminaire's physical housing or in close proximity. This limits flexibility in positioning and may result in suboptimal placement for certain applications, such as environmental monitoring or traffic management.

[0056] Standard sockets, such as NEMA or Zhaga, are often used to interface sensors and communication modules with the luminaire. However, their fixed placement within the luminaire housing constrains the ability to customize the system for specific use cases.

[0057] The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining functionality independent of the luminaire's power state and introduces an innovative design that incorporates a remote interface for sensors and communication devices, supported by an independent power and communication supply system.

[0058] The invention proposes arranging the interface (i.e., the control module 10) for the sensor remotely from the lighting means of the street luminaire. This remote configuration is distinct from prior art, which typically integrates sensors directly with or adjacent to the luminaire. The remote arrangement provides flexibility in the placement of sensors, allowing them to be positioned optimally for environmental monitoring without being constrained by the luminaire's physical or electrical design.

[0059] To enable the sensor and communication means to operate during periods when the luminaire is unpowered, the invention incorporates a self-contained power supply within a dedicated module, referred to the control module, or namely the offline power and communication box, as shown in Figure 1.

[0060] The stored energy in the battery enables the sensor to function continuously, including during the daytime or other periods when the street lighting is switched off.

[0061] The sensor integrated into the system collects environmental data, such as: Traffic density Presence and movement detection Lighting levels Air quality and other environmental parameters

[0062] This data can be processed and transmitted to external systems, such as cloud-based platforms. Communication between the sensor module and the cloud can occur in real-time or be deferred until the luminaire is powered, depending on system configurations. Additionally, the control module 10 may include memory means for storing collected data locally, allowing for batch transmission at a later time, e.g., during periods when the street lighting system is powered.

[0063] This feature ensures efficient data handling and energy management by allowing delayed transmission during optimal periods, such as when AC mains power is available. It guarantees data preservation and reduces energy consumption during unpowered periods, enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability.

[0064] To ensure accurate time tracking and scheduling, the control module 10 may further include an inbuilt real-time clock (RTC). The RTC enables precise recording of the actual time associated with data collection, even when the street lighting system 1 is unpowered. This ensures that temporal information is retained, allowing for accurate scheduling and analysis of system performance. The inclusion of the RTC is particularly advantageous for luminaires that remain constantly powered or operate independently of an external time source, as it provides an internal mechanism for maintaining time synchronization without reliance on external systems.

[0065] This capability supports enhanced system functionality, such as time-stamped data logging, precise scheduling of communication or operational tasks, and synchronization with external systems when network connectivity is available.

[0066] In addition to transmitting data, the system allows communication from external platforms (e.g., the cloud) to the sensor module. This capability facilitates operations such as: firmware updates, commissioning of sensors, or configuration of system parameters.

[0067] This two-way communication ensures that the sensor module remains adaptable and up-to-date, even during periods when the luminaire is unpowered.

[0068] Figure 3 expands upon the embodiment of Figure 1 by illustrating additional connections and routing features within the control module 10. These features highlight the enhanced modularity and flexibility of the system.

[0069] The module incorporates internal routing lines (e.g., +24V, DA+, DA- shown in the figure) for distributing power and communication signals between internal components, such as the battery, control unit, and sensors. The internal routing ensures efficient management of power and data within the module.

[0070] The module 10 may further incorporate external routing lines 15 (shown in the dashed circle) extend beyond the module to connect additional devices, such as external sensors or communication components (e.g., antennas). These lines can support devices positioned remotely from the module, such as on the luminaire itself or elsewhere on the streetlight infrastructure.

[0071] It may be understood as a preferred embodiment, which includes external routing of DALI communication lines (e.g., DA+, DA-) and DC power (e.g., 24 V DC) from the power and communication box. This routing enables the connection of additional sensors or devices to the street lighting system 1. For instance, another sensor can be positioned closer to the luminaire or at another location on the streetlight. In another example, an external antenna can be placed remotely for improved communication capabilities.

[0072] This external routing allows the system to support a modular and scalable architecture, accommodating various configurations and functionalities. Further, the extended routing allows the module to operate as a hub for multiple devices, supporting future scalability and integration into smart city infrastructure.

[0073] The additional features illustrated in Figure 3 make the control module highly versatile, accommodating a wide range of applications and configurations while maintaining continuous operation regardless of the luminaire's power state.

[0074] Notably, a key aspect of the invention is the decoupling of the sensor and communication means from the control module 10. These components can be arranged remotely anywhere on the streetlight structure, independent of the box or the housing of the control module 10. This design eliminates the need for standard sockets (e.g., Zhaga or NEMA) at the box itself, further increasing installation flexibility.

[0075] Figure 4 illustrates the arrangement of an offline power and communication module for a smart streetlight system 1. In this embodiment, the offline power and communication box, or the control module 10, is mounted on the streetlight post (as shown in the left part of Figure 4), with a sensor module and communication antenna installed higher up the post, near the luminaire. The control module 10 supplies DC power and handles communication lines, while the remote sensor collects data and communicates with the cloud. This arrangement maximizes the system's adaptability and functionality.

[0076] This allows the offline power and communication module to be strategically placed at the lower part of the post for easy maintenance and adaptability, while the sensor module and antenna to be positioned near the luminaire at the top of the post, optimizing data collection and communication with the cloud. This arrangement ensures the streetlight system is both efficient and adaptable for smart infrastructure applications.

[0077] Figure 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method 500 for operating a control module 10 in a street lighting system 1 that includes a street lighting means. The control module 10 may be the control module shown in Figure 1, Figure 3, or Figure 4. The method enables the control module 10 to provide power and communication capabilities to at least one module of the street lighting system during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered. The method comprises six key steps (501-507) described in detail below:

[0078] At step 501, the control module receives power from a power source, e.g., an AC mains power, during periods when the street lighting means is powered. The AC mains power is typically supplied from the same source that powers the street luminaire, such as the electrical grid or a localized power network. The control module is designed to seamlessly integrate with the power infrastructure of the street lighting system.

[0079] For instance, the control module accesses this power via L and N connections, ensuring compatibility with standard street lighting setups. In certain cases, it may also include a PE wire to comply with applicable safety regulations. The AC mains power is the primary energy source for charging the module's battery and powering any integrated systems during the luminaire's active periods.

[0080] Next, at step 502, the received power is converted into DC power using a charging circuit integrated within the control module. This step is critical for powering the module's internal electronics and charging the battery.

[0081] The charging circuit ensures a stable DC voltage and current output suitable for charging the battery and powering other module components.

[0082] Conversion efficiency may be optimized to minimize energy loss and maximize the utility of the received AC power.

[0083] At step 503, the converted DC power is used to charge a battery integrated into the control module. The battery serves as an energy reservoir, enabling the module to operate during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered.

[0084] The battery is designed for durability and optimized for energy storage, ensuring that it can provide sufficient power for extended periods of operation.

[0085] The control circuitry in the module manages the charging process to prevent overcharging and ensure the longevity of the battery.

[0086] At step 504, during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered, the control module supplies power from the battery to at least one connected module. This step ensures continuous functionality of the sensor(s), independent of the street lighting system's power state.

[0087] The at least one module may include sensors for collecting environmental data, such as motion detectors, air quality sensors, or traffic monitoring devices.

[0088] The control module monitors the battery's power output to optimize energy use and ensure sustained sensor operation during prolonged unpowered periods.

[0089] At step 505, the control module collects data from the connected modules (sensor(s)) during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered. The data may include a variety of environmental and operational parameters, such as: traffic density, presence and movement detection, ambient lighting conditions, air quality or other environmental metrics.

[0090] The data collection process is managed by the control circuitry within the module, which ensures that all relevant information is retrieved from the sensor(s) without interruptions.

[0091] At step 506, the collected data is transmitted to an external system, such as using communication means integrated within the control module. The external system could include a cloud-based platform or a centralized control network for the street lighting system.

[0092] The system is designed to operate flexibly, supporting both centralized and distributed configurations. The control module may either centralize the functions of powering, sensing, and communication or provide power to a separate sensor and communication module. The sensor and communication module may be integrated within the luminaire or assembled externally, depending on the specific system design and installation requirements. This flexibility allows the system to adapt to various operational and infrastructure setups while ensuring seamless data transmission and processing.

[0093] The communication means can utilize wireless protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or LoRa) or wire-bound protocols such as DALI, depending on the system's configuration.

[0094] If real-time transmission is not feasible, the module stores the collected data temporarily for later transmission.

[0095] At step 507, if immediate transmission of the collected data to the external system is not possible, the control module temporarily stores the data within its memory. The data can then be transmitted in batches during subsequent powered periods of the street lighting means or when network connectivity is available.

[0096] The module's memory ensures no data loss during unpowered periods, enhancing reliability. This functionality is particularly useful for applications where continuous connectivity cannot be guaranteed.

[0097] Figure 5 encapsulates the operational flow of the control module and its interaction with the street lighting system. The method ensures uninterrupted sensor operation and reliable data collection, even during periods when the street luminaire is unpowered. By implementing this method, the control module offers a comprehensive solution for enhancing the functionality and connectivity of street lighting systems.

[0098] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by limitation. Numerous changes to the disclosed embodiments can be made in accordance with the disclosure herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above described embodiments. Rather, the scope of the invention should be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

[0099] Although the invention has been illustrated and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations, and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

1. A control module (10) for a street lighting system (1) comprising a street lighting means, the control module (10) adapted to provide power and communication capabilities to at least one module (21) of the street lighting system (1) in time periods when the street lighting system (1) is unpowered: the control module (10) comprising: a battery (11), a control circuitry (12) configured to charge the battery (11) off a power source of the street lighting means during periods when the street lighting means is powered, and manage operations of the control module; wherein the control module (10) is configured to: provide power from the battery (11) to the at least one module (21) during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered; collect data from the at least one module (21); and transmit the collected data to an external system or store the collected data for later transmission.

2. The control module (10) of claim 1, wherein the at least one module (21) comprises at least one sensor, wherein the control module (10) further comprises an interface (13) configured to connect to the at least one sensor, wherein the interface (13) is configured to conform to at least one industry standard socket (14), optionally a Zhaga socket, or a NEMA socket.

3. The control module (10) of claim 1 or 2, further comprising communication means configured to enable data exchange between the control module (10) and the external system.

4. The control module (10) of claim 3, wherein the communication means comprises a wireless communication interface for data exchange between the control module (10) and the external system, or a wired communication interface, preferably compatible with the Digital Addressable Lighting Interface, DALI, standard.

5. The control module (10) of claims 3 or 4, wherein the communication means is configured to be positioned remotely from a housing of the control module (10), allowing placement anywhere across the street lighting system.

6. The control module (10) of any preceding claims, further comprises: a memory configured to store the collected data from the at least one module (21) for subsequent transmission to the external system.

7. The control module (10) of any preceding claims, wherein the control module (10) is configured to receive data from the external system.

8. The control module (10) of any preceding claims, further comprising a routing means (15) configured to provide power and communication lines to at least one additional device connected to the street lighting system (1) .

9. The control module (10) of claim 7, wherein the at least one additional device comprises another sensor or communication antenna positioned remotely from the control module (10).

10. The control module (10) of any preceding claims, wherein the control module (10) is physically separable from the street lighting means and configurable for placement at a location distinct from the street lighting means.

11. A street lighting system (1), comprising: a street lighting means configured to illuminate during powered periods and remain unpowered during unpowered periods; a control module (10) according to any preceding claims.

12. A method (500) for operating a control module in a street lighting system comprising a street lighting means, comprising: receiving (501) power from a power source during periods when the street lighting means is powered; converting (502) the received power into DC power using a charging circuit integrated within the control module; charging (503) a battery within the control module with the converted DC power; supplying (504) power from the battery to at least one connected module during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered; collecting (505) data from the at least one connected module during periods when the street lighting means is unpowered; and transmitting (506) the collected data to an external system, or storing (507) the collected data within the control module for later transmission.

Images