A wireless internet-of-things, IoT, node as well as a method of operating such a wireless IoT node

Abstract

A wireless Internet-of-Things, loT, node, comprising communication means arranged for receiving instructions for operating the wireless loT node, a power supply arranged for receiving a mains supply voltage, via a mains power input, and for down-converting the received mains supply voltage to a Direct Current, DC voltage for providing power to a controller and said communication means, said controller for controlling the communication means and for controlling said wireless loT node based on said received instructions, and for controlling said power supply, wherein the wireless loT node further comprises a switch connected to an input of said power supply and arranged to be connected to said mains power input, wherein said switch is arranged to control a flow of power from said mains supply voltage to said power supply, and ambient empowered communication means arranged for harvesting energy from ambient, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal, and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply.

Description

[0001] A WIRELESS INTERNET-OF-THINGS, IOT, NODE AS WELL AS A METHOD OF OPERATING SUCH A WIRELESS IOT NODE.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of wireless Internet-of- Things, loT, nodes and, more specifically, to loT nodes having reduced standby energy consumption.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Connected Internet-of-Things, loT, systems, for example connected lighting systems, may represent a modern and sophisticated approach to illuminating spaces, incorporating advanced technologies to enhance control, efficiency, and user experience. At the core are connected light sources, exemplified by a light source with a lamp driver possessing communication capabilities and a light engine, typically based on Light Emitting Diode, LED, technology. This facilitates not only the emission of light but also enables communication with other components within the system.

[0006] The light controller plays a role by managing and coordinating the connected light sources. It serves as a central hub for data exchange, allowing for the control of light recipes. Light recipes may encompass a variety of settings such as colour temperature, brightness, and other parameters, influencing the ambiance of the illuminated space. Moreover, the light controller may interact with cloud-based storage, where information regarding light recipes, switching rules, and lighting status can be stored and accessed.

[0007] To improve user interaction and environmental responsiveness, the system may incorporate user input devices and sensors. These components can directly communicate with the light controller or indirectly through cloud-based storage, influencing the light state based on user preferences or environmental conditions. For instance, the presence sensors can trigger changes in lighting to optimize energy usage based on occupancy.

[0008] Cloud-based storage may, for example, act as an extended platform for storing and retrieving data related to the connected lighting system. It may serve as a repository for information such as light recipes and system configurations. The communication with the cloud enables remote access and control, providing flexibility and scalability to the system. Despite the numerous advantages offered by connected lighting systems, the International Energy Agency, IEA, with its branch Energy Efficient End-use Equipment, 4E, has identified an issue: standby energy consumption. Standby energy consumption refers to the power consumed by electronic devices when they are in a standby or idle mode, not actively performing their primary functions.

[0009] In the context of connected lighting systems, even when the lights are not actively in use, there might be energy usage associated with the communication capabilities, standby modes, or maintenance of connectivity. This standby energy consumption can contribute to overall energy inefficiency and environmental impact.

[0010] Raising awareness of standby energy consumption may be of importance as it directly impacts energy efficiency and sustainability goals. Users and manufacturers may need to understand the implications of standby power usage in connected lighting systems to make informed decisions. The IEA 4E SSL Annex is actively working towards this goal, aiming to educate stakeholders and promote energy-efficient practices in the design, implementation, and usage of smart lighting technologies.

[0011] US20190081503A1 discloses a wake-up power receiver functioning as a means to receive wake-up power and configured extendably inside or outside the loT device to wirelessly receive wake-up power.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] It would be advantageous to achieve a wireless Internet-of-Things, loT, node that has a reduced standby energy consumption. It would further be advantageous to achieve a corresponding method of operating such an loT node for obtaining the reduced standby energy consumption.

[0014] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a wireless Internet- of-Things, loT, node, comprising: communication means arranged for receiving instructions for operating the wireless loT node; a power supply arranged for receiving a mains supply voltage, via a mains power input, and for down-converting the received mains supply voltage to a Direct Current, DC voltage for providing power to a controller and said communication means; said controller for controlling the communication means and for controlling said wireless loT node based on said received instructions, and for, in certain examples, controlling said power supply; wherein the wireless loT node further comprises: a switch connected to an input of said power supply and arranged to be connected to said mains power input, wherein said switch is arranged to control a flow of power from said mains supply voltage to said power supply; ambient empowered communication means arranged for harvesting energy from ambient, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal, and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply.

[0015] The present disclosure is directed to an loT system comprising one or more loT nodes. Each of the nodes comprises communication means arranged for wirelessly receiving instructions for operating the wireless loT node. The loT node may have a variety of functionalities. For example, the loT node may be directed to providing lighting, may be arranged to perform some sort of sensing, like temperature, humidity, pressure, or anything alike.

[0016] The communication means are arranged to at least receive instructions for operating the wireless loT node. In addition thereto, the loT node may be arranged to transmit data as well. This data may, for example, be directed to acknowledgements, or sensor data, or instructions, or anything alike.

[0017] The power supply is arranged for receiving an mains supply voltage, via a mains power input, and for down-converting the receiving mains supply voltage to a DC voltage for providing power to the loT node. For example, the loT node may be connected to a 230Vac mains supply voltage. A buck converter, or a flyback converter, may be implemented to down-convert the 230Vac mains supply voltage to a DC voltage suitable for operating the loT node.

[0018] The controller is arranged for controlling the communication means and for controlling the wireless loT node based on the received instructions, and for controlling the power supply.

[0019] The inventors have found that it may be beneficial to implement a switch as well as ambient empowered communication means to help in reducing consumed standby power of the loT node. This is explained as follows.

[0020] The switch is connected to an input of the power supply and is arranged to be connected to the mains power input. As such, the switch is able to control a flow of power from the mains supply voltage to the power supply. Basically, the switch determines whether the loT node is connected to the mains supply voltage, or not. Finally, ambient empowered communication means are implemented, and are arranged for harvesting energy from ambient, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal, and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply.

[0021] The inventors have found that, in for example standby modus of the loT node, still power may be consumed by the power supply, the controller and / or the communication means. In order to reduce the power consumption during standby modus, the inventors have found to introduce the switch to disable the flow of power from the mains supply to the power supply.

[0022] The switch should, however, be enabled / activated whenever the loT node needs to perform an operation. That is, a wakeup signal may be sent to the loT node for activating the loT node. The ambient empowered communication means will receive the wakeup signal and will activate, triggered by receipt of the wakeup signal, the switch such that the flow of power is enabled from the mains supply voltage to the power supply. The energy needed for activating the switch is drawn from energy harvested from the ambient.

[0023] The term "ambient" denotes the loT node’s capacity to tap into various environmental energy sources, such as radiofrequency signals, solar radiation, vibrations, or temperature gradients. By leveraging these ambient energy sources, the ambient communication means can operate without traditional power sources like batteries or wired connections.

[0024] This ambient empowerment is particularly advantageous when the harvested energy is channelled towards the switch. The loT node then does not consume any power from the mains supply during the standby period.

[0025] In accordance with the present disclosure, the power supply is arranged for receiving a mains supply voltage, via the mains power input, and for down-converting the received mains supply voltage to a DC voltage for providing power to the controller and the communication means. Typically, the power supply is arranged for receiving an Alternating Current, AC, mains supply voltage such as a 230Vac or 1 lOVac mains supply voltage. Alternatively, the power supply is arranged for receiving a Direct Current, DC, mains supply voltage.

[0026] In an example, the switch comprises an optically triggered solid state relay.

[0027] An optically triggered solid-state relay, SSR, is an electronic switching device that uses optical signals to control the flow of power, i.e. from the mains supply to the power supply. Traditional electromechanical relays rely on physical switches, but optically triggered SSRs use semiconductor components, often thyristors or triacs, for their switching operations. The distinctive feature of these relays is their reliance on optical signals, typically in the form of light, to initiate the switching process.

[0028] Typically, an optocoupler and a semiconductor switching element is used. The optocoupler consists of a light-emitting diode, LED, and a light-sensitive semiconductor, such as a phototransistor or photodarlington. When an external control signal is applied, the LED emits light, which, upon crossing an isolation barrier, activates the light-sensitive component. This, in turn, triggers the semiconductor switching element, allowing controlled electrical current flow between the relay's input and output terminals.

[0029] The above mentioned LED may thus be empowered by the ambient empowered communication means.

[0030] In a further example, the power supply is further arranged for keeping activation of said switch.

[0031] Once the wakeup signal has been received, the switch is activated, by the ambient empowered communication means, and the loT node will start its operation. During these kinds of normal operation times, the power supply may take over the control of the switch to ensure that the switch keeps being activated. This would prevent the switch from going to a deactivation state in case there is not enough ambient power harvested.

[0032] One a standby signal is received, either by the ambient empowered communication means or by the communication means, the power supply may stop keeping activation of the switch. The power supply may actively disable the switch itself, thereby putting the loT node in a standby modus. Once a wakeup signal is received via the ambient empowered communication means, the switch may be activated again.

[0033] In a further example, the ambient empowered communication means is arranged for receiving said wakeup signal, said wakeup signal being a burst of energy in a frequency spectrum, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is arranged for harvesting energy from said burst of energy in said frequency spectrum.

[0034] The inventors have found that it may be beneficial if a particular transmitter of the loT system is arranged to generate a burst of energy in a frequency spectrum. The ambient empowered communication means may interpret receiving that burst of energy as the wakeup signal, and - at the same time - may harvest energy from the received burst of energy to control the switch to the activation state.

[0035] In another example, the ambient empowered communication means further comprises: self-activation means arranged for detecting restoration of said mains supply voltage after a power outage of said mains supply voltage and for self-activating said switch based on said detected restoration.

[0036] Short power outages in the mains supply voltage may occur. If such a short power outage occurs, it may cause the switch to go from an activation state to a deactivation state. This is undesired.

[0037] The inventors have found that it may be beneficial to introduce self-activation means that are arranged for detecting restoration of the mains supply voltage after a power outage of the mains supply, and for self-activating the switch based on the detected restoration.

[0038] In a further example, the ambient empowered communication means is further arranged for: receiving an initiation power command, wherein said initiation command is used by said controller for controlling said power supply.

[0039] The initiation power command may comprise instructions for the power supply with respect to the amount of power that is to be delivered.

[0040] In a further example, the ambient empowered communication means are further arranged for: wirelessly reporting a status of said wireless loT node.

[0041] In another example, the ambient empowered communication means is further arranged for: receiving an initiation control command, wherein said initiation command is used by said controller for controlling said wireless loT node.

[0042] The initiation control command may, for example, comprise functionality commands for the loT node. For example, the colour setting, the brightness setting, or anything alike. The initiation control command may also comprise a request to report a particular measurement, for example a request to report temperature and / or a request to report humidity.

[0043] In yet another example, the wireless loT node is a wireless lighting node, wherein said wireless lighting node comprises: at least one Light Emitting Diode, LED, based lighting device, wherein said controller is arranged for controlling said at least one LED based lighting device based on said received instructions. In a specific example hereof, the wireless lighting node comprises a lighting bulb, wherein said communication means, said controller, said switch and said ambient empowered communication means are integrated in said lighting bulb.

[0044] The inventors have found that it may be beneficial to integrate the electronics in a single light bulb. This would make for an efficient light bulb.

[0045] In yet another example, the switch comprises an optically triggered solid state relay, wherein at least one of said at least one LED is positioned such that it is arranged to trigger said optically triggered solid state relay.

[0046] The inventors have found that it may be beneficial if the power supply takes over the control of the switch once the loT node is activated. This would prevent energy to be drawn from the ambiently empowered communication means. One of the ways to accomplish this, is that at least one of the LEDs of the lighting device is also positioned such that it is able to trigger the optically triggered solid state relay.

[0047] Whenever a shutdown command is received, the lighting device will stop illuminating and, automatically, the solid state relay is no longer activated. As such, the lighting device will go into standby mode.

[0048] The present disclosure may be explicitly suitable for lighting scenarios. A scenario with multiple independently controllable bulbs is one of them. A lighting system may, for example, involve a chandelier equipped with multiple bulbs, each capable of independent control. In this setup, a specific lamp (denoted as ) may serve as a signal generator that can be harnessed for a unique purpose.

[0049] This scenario, for example, allows for enabling the capability to turn off all lamps <B...N> except for one (). This remaining powered lamp () can then be accessed through control commands, allowing it to generate a changing signal for the ambient empowered communication means in all the other lamps (<B...N>). As a result, these lamps can subsequently switch on their individual power supplies.

[0050] In the context of this chandelier embodiment, lamp may play a dual role. During the wake-up process, it may transform into an command buffering device and acts as a proxy, storing and recalling lighting control commands. This function may be useful when the remaining lamps (<B...N>) are ready to receive instructions, facilitating a synchronized and controlled activation.

[0051] Additionally, various embodiments for waking up the lamps are possible. These include utilizing entities such as movement detectors like radar, PIR, Thermopile, as well as daylight sensors, or user interface devices like wall switches. In many instances, these devices can be strategically placed in areas where mains power is available, ensuring an adequate power budget for the wake-up process as disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0052] In yet another example, the switch comprises any of a triode for alternating current, TRIAC, Thyristor, a Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor, MOSFET or insulated-gate bipolar transistor, IGBT.

[0053] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating a wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous examples, wherein said method comprises the steps of: controlling, by said switch, said flow of power from said mains supply voltage to said power supply; harvesting energy, by said ambient empowered communication means, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply.

[0054] It is noted that the advantages as explained with respect to the first aspect of the present disclosure, being the wireless loT node, are also applicable to the second aspect of the present disclosure, being the method of operating the wireless loT node.

[0055] In an example, the method further comprises the step of: keeping activation, by said power supply, of said switch.

[0056] In a further example, the method comprises the steps of: receiving said wakeup signal, said wakeup signal being a burst of energy in a frequency spectrum, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is arranged for harvesting energy from said burst of energy in said frequency spectrum.

[0057] In a further example, the ambient empowered communication means further comprises self-activation means, and wherein said method comprises the step of: detecting, by said self-activation means, restoration of said mains supply voltage after a power outage of said mains supply voltage and for self-activating said switch based on said detected restoration.

[0058] In yet another example, the method further comprises the step of: receiving, by said ambient empowered communication means, an initiation power command, wherein said initiation command is used by said controller for controlling said power supply.

[0059] In an example, the method further comprises the step of: receiving, by said ambient empowered communication means, an initiation control command, wherein said initiation command is used by said controller for controlling said wireless loT node.

[0060] The present disclosure is described in conjunction with the appended figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

[0061] In the appended figures, similar components and / or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.

[0062] The above and other aspects of the disclosure will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the examples described hereinafter.

[0063] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] Fig. 1 discloses an example of a connected lighting system in accordance with the prior art;

[0065] Fig. 2 discloses an example of a connected lighting loT node in accordance with the prior art;

[0066] Fig. 3 discloses an example of a connected lighting loT node in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0067] Fig. 4 discloses an example of a method in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0068] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0069] It is noted that in the description of the figures, same reference numerals refer to the same or similar components performing a same or essentially similar function.

[0070] A more detailed description is made with reference to particular examples, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings, such that the manner in which the features of the present disclosure may be understood in more detail. It is noted that the drawings only illustrate typical examples and are therefore not to be considered to limit the scope of the subject matter of the embodiments. The drawings are incorporated for facilitating an understanding of the disclosure and are thus not necessarily drawn to scale. Advantages of the subject matter as claimed will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0071] The ensuing description above provides preferred exemplary embodiment s) only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the preferred exemplary embodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment of the disclosure, it being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements, including combinations of features from different embodiments, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0072] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the embodiments, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to." As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, electromagnetic, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the Detailed Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word "or," in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0073] These and other changes can be made to the technology in light of the following detailed description. While the description describes certain examples of the technology, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the description appears, the technology can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its specific implementation, while still being encompassed by the technology disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the technology should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following embodiments should not be construed to limit the technology to the specific examples disclosed in the specification, unless the Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the technology encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the technology under the embodiments.

[0074] Fig. 1 discloses an example of a connected lighting system in accordance with the prior art.

[0075] Connected lighting systems have emerged as a responsive solution to users' demands for flexible and easily adaptable lighting environments. These systems, exemplified by Figure 1's block diagram, represent a shift in lighting technology.

[0076] A connected light source (120) integrates a lamp driver (122) with communication capabilities (121) and a light engine (123), typically Light Emitting Diode, LED, based in applications.

[0077] The light controller (110) serves as the orchestrator, establishing a data connection to all connected light sources (120, 130, 140). This central hub is where light recipes are typically controlled, and in some instances, communication with cloud-based storage (150) facilitates the management of light recipes, switching rules, and lighting status. User input devices and sensors, though not explicitly shown, play a role by directly communicating with the light controller (110) or indirectly influencing the light state through cloud-based storage (150).

[0078] The International Energy Agency, IEA, particularly through its 4E - Energy Efficient End-use Equipment - branch, has been actively assessing the standby consumption effects of "smart lamps." The IEA 4E SSL Annex is dedicated to raising awareness of standby energy consumption.

[0079] A recent development in the context of wireless communication, particularly within the IEEE 802.11 working group, is the consideration of Ambient Power, AMP. AMP is a new Task Group (TIG) / Study Group (SG) addressing the integration of Ambient Power communication in 802.11 networks. This initiative responds to the need for radios that operate without external power supplies or batteries.

[0080] Ambient power-enabled loT, Internet of Things, node is an innovative technology designed to facilitate battery -free communication by harnessing energy from diverse sources such as radio waves, sunlight, motion, and heat. This approach eliminates the need for conventional batteries, marking a significant advancement in sustainable and energy-efficient communication.

[0081] The IEEE 802.11 Ambient Power (AMP) working group is at the forefront of exploring the possibilities of this technology. By tapping into ambient energy sources, devices can operate without the limitations of traditional power sources, presenting new opportunities for energy-efficient communication. This concept aligns with the broader trend in loT and connected systems towards sustainability and reduced environmental impact.

[0082] The “smartness” of connected lamps with all their smart features may come at a cost - energy consumption. The constant need for connected devices to be on standby, waiting for control messages even when they're not doing anything, significantly contributes to the overall energy consumption of the entire lighting system. The control message, such as the one to turn on the light when a sensor detects someone or when a user presses a button or gives a voice command, i.e. a wakeup signal, is at the heart of this energy usage. It's not just about turning on the light; it's about doing it quickly because that's what users expect and need.

[0083] The inventors recognize that a sustainable future lifestyle may include smart lighting controls without the energy-draining standby mode. However, the reality is that current connected lighting, CL, systems, especially those using wireless technology like Zigbee, Thread, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, still consume small amounts of energy, typically around 0.15-0.5 watts, in standby mode (i.e. when the light is off) for each light source.

[0084] This standby power is a necessary evil to maintain the responsiveness required for quick activation when needed. While the aim is a sustainable and energy-efficient lifestyle, the current technology landscape shows that there's still work to be done in minimizing standby energy consumption in smart lighting systems.

[0085] The present disclosure is directed to an approach by, for example, utilizing chips originally designed for Ambient Power, AMP, sensor nodes to trigger the mains supply of connected lighting loads. A future is foreseen where wireless sensing Internet of Things, loT, devices, like connected lighting nodes, will commonly adopt harvesting nodes, a trend expected to be endorsed by the developing study group within IEEE 802.11 (as mentioned earlier regarding AMP).

[0086] These nodes, at least partly powered by ambient energy, are anticipated to have enough capability to activate power supplies in loT nodes only when necessary. The networking of connected lighting (CL) systems may use Wi-Fi or other wireless techniques.

[0087] The proposed approach offers several advantages. Firstly, there is no power consumption from the mains when the system is in sleep / standby mode. Additionally, simple commands can be transmitted in AMP mode, enabling direct load control, including basic instructions such as turning on the lights or specifying desired brightness / scenes. For more complex controls, a full CL connection establishment may be required. The application for Zigbee (or other wireless control protocols) wake-up is also considered in this invention. However, it is acknowledged that these changes may introduce increased latency or delays when attempting to activate lights.

[0088] Figure 2 provides an illustrative and schematic representation of a conventional light source 300 used in connected lighting systems, as seen in prior art. This light source is equipped with a power train that includes a mains power input 311, a power supply 310, an LED driver 320, and the actual LED light source 321.

[0089] Additionally, it features a controller 330 and a communication means 340 equipped with an antenna 341. The arrows in the diagram symbolize the flow of control and power within the system. The power supply 310 not only provides power to the LED driver and light source but also supplies power to the controller and communication means, as they need to be operational to receive control messages. This operational requirement for the power supply 310, even when the light source 321 is inactive, stems from the need to maintain readiness for incoming control messages, consequently drawing power from the mains connection even during periods of inactivity.

[0090] In an example, as shown in Figure 3, enhancements have been made to the Connected Lighting, CL, light source 301 to improve standby power during inactive periods. In contrast to the previous block diagram, i.e. Figure 3, functional blocks have been introduced to enable an Ambient Power, AMP, node-activated power supply. Notable additions in Figure 3 include the AMP receiver 350 and a mains isolation means 352.

[0091] With this upgraded CL light source 301, the primary power supply 310 operates during active periods of the light source 301. When the system indicates an extended deactivation of light source 301, the mains isolation means 352 switches off, rendering the entire circuitry of the light source powerless and eliminating standby power consumption. Multiple mechanisms may be deployed for realizing this. For example, a control signal from a controller 330 may be utilized or one of the LEDs 321 may, or may not, provide light towards the mains isolation means 352.

[0092] This deactivation can be triggered by detecting minimal power draw from 310 over a period, receiving a communication message signalling standby, experiencing a timeout in communication to the light's controller, or through AMP communication 351. To reactivate the light source, the AMP node 350 may receive a wake-up signal, instructing the mains isolation means 352 to switch on, providing power to the complete circuitry. The CL control means can then activate the light source as needed. The ambient-powered node may need sufficient power reserves to enable the mains isolation means 352, i.e. the switch, to switch on. This can be achieved through an optically triggered solid-state relay, for instance, built from a TRIAC, Thyristor, MOSFET, or IGBT, requiring minimal power to switch into a conductive state. When the power supply 310 is active, it may also power the control of the isolation means 352, keeping it in the conductive state until the next deactivation command from the CL system is received.

[0093] In a further example, the AMP node may receive a minimal lamp control command to set the power-up control value for the driver 320, reducing activation latency. Additionally, the AMP node might report sensor values, status information, or functional properties regarding the powered-down lamp 301, aiding in system setup after a power outage.

[0094] Another improvement involves the isolation switch 352 automatically entering the conductive state when mains power is absent and gets reconnected, simplifying commissioning as newly inserted light sources can directly boot and report availability to the CL system. The CL system could also use a multi-hop / mesh Zigbee or Thread network, deciding which nodes require routing messages and selectively powering down unnecessary nodes using the isolation means 352.

[0095] Moreover, the system may predict light sources that may need to be reactive, pre-powering them so that the controller 330 is fully booted when required. The AMP "channel" could also be utilized to send commands or data while the light is off, storing information during inactive periods and transferring it to the CL system upon activation.

[0096] In an example, the wireless loT node comprises a battery. The battery may be charged by the power supply. During standby of the loT node the battery may be disconnected from the other electronics, to prevent drainage of the battery during the standby mode.

[0097] Once a wakeup signal is received, via the ambient empowered communication means, the battery may be activate to empower the electronics of the wireless loT node. The advantage of the above is, amongst other things, a longer battery life since no battery charge is used in the “standby” state.

[0098] Fig. 4 discloses an example of a method 501 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0099] The method is directed to operating a wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said method comprises the steps of: controlling 502, by said switch, said flow of power from said mains supply voltage to said power supply; harvesting energy 503, by said ambient empowered communication means, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal 504 and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch 505, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply.

[0100] It should be noted that the above-mentioned examples illustrate rather than limit the idea, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative examples without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The word “comprising” does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in a claim, “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality, and a single processor or other unit may fulfil the functions of several units recited in the claims.

[0101] Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed so as to limit their scope.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A wireless Internet-of-Things, loT, node, comprising: communication means arranged for receiving instructions for operating the wireless loT node; a power supply arranged for receiving a mains supply voltage, via a mains power input, and for down-converting the received mains supply voltage to a Direct Current, DC voltage for providing power to a controller and said communication means; said controller for controlling the communication means and for controlling said wireless loT node based on said received instructions; wherein the wireless loT node further comprises: a switch connected to an input of said power supply and arranged to be connected to said mains power input, wherein said switch is arranged to control a flow of power from said mains supply voltage to said power supply; ambient empowered communication means arranged for harvesting energy from ambient, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal, and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply, wherein said ambient empowered communication means further comprises a self-activation means arranged for detecting restoration of said mains supply voltage after a power outage of said mains supply voltage and for self-activating said switch based on said detected restoration.

2. A wireless loT node in accordance with claim 1, wherein said switch comprises an optically triggered solid state relay.

3. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said power supply is further arranged for keeping activation of said switch.

4. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is arranged for receiving said wakeup signal,said wakeup signal being a burst of energy in a frequency spectrum, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is arranged for harvesting energy from said burst of energy in said frequency spectrum.

5. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is further arranged for: receiving an initiation power command, wherein said initiation command is used by said controller for controlling said power supply.

6. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said ambient empowered communication means are further arranged for: wirelessly reporting a status of said wireless loT node.

7. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is further arranged for: receiving an initiation control command, wherein said initiation command is used by said controller for controlling said wireless loT node.

8. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said wireless loT node is a wireless lighting node, wherein said wireless lighting node comprises: at least one Light Emitting Diode, LED, based lighting device, Wherein said controller is arranged for controlling said at least one LED based lighting device based on said received instructions.

9. A wireless loT node in accordance with claim 8, wherein said wireless lighting node comprises a lighting luminaire, wherein said communication means, said controller, said switch and said ambient empowered communication means are integrated in said lighting luminaire.

10. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the claims 8 - 9, wherein said switch comprises an optically triggered solid state relay, wherein at least one of said at least one LED is positioned such that it is arranged to trigger said optically triggered solid state relay.

11. A wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said switch comprises any of a triode for alternating current, TRIAC, Thyristor, a Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor, MOSFET or insulated-gate bipolar transistor, IGBT.

12. A method of operating a wireless loT node in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said method comprises the steps of: controlling, by said switch, said flow of power from said mains supply voltage to said power supply; harvesting energy, by said ambient empowered communication means, wirelessly receiving a wakeup signal and, triggered by said received wakeup signal, activating said switch, using said harvested power, such that flow of power is enabled from said mains supply voltage to said power supply; and detecting restoration of said mains supply voltage after a power outage of said mains supply voltage and for self-activating said switch based on said detected restoration.

13. A method in accordance with claim 12, wherein said method further comprises the step of: keeping activation, by said power supply, of said switch.

14. A method in accordance with any of the claims 12 - 13, wherein said method comprises the steps of: receiving said wakeup signal, said wakeup signal being a burst of energy in a frequency spectrum, wherein said ambient empowered communication means is arranged for harvesting energy from said burst of energy in said frequency spectrum.

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