System and method for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting

Abstract

A system (108) for controlling and monitoring individual airfield lighting is disclosed. The system (108) includes one or more Lamp Control Units (LCUs) (202) connected to one or more Lighting Elements (LEs) (106) of an airfield and at least one Master Control Unit (MCU) (204) connected to the one or more LCUs (204) over a Power-Line-Communication (PLC) channel (206) and a wireless communication channel (208). The MCU (202) receives one or more control signals from a server (102). The MCU (202) determines a channel state of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208) corresponding to the LE with an address. The MCU (202) transmits the control signals to an LCU corresponding to the LE via the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208) based on the determined channel state. The LCU controls the LE based on the control signals.

Description

10259W0015SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AND MONITORING AIRFIELD LIGHTINGFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of airfield lighting systems. More particularly, the present disclosure discloses a system and a method for controlling and monitoring individual airfield lighting.BACKGROUND

[0002] Airfield lighting systems provide essential visual guidance for aircraft operations during takeoff, landing, and ground movement. Airfield lighting systems require precise control and continuous monitoring to ensure safe aircraft operations under various weather and visibility conditions. Aviation authorities mandate specific lighting patterns and intensities for different operational phases to maintain standardized safety protocols across airport facilities.

[0003] Conventional techniques for airfield lighting control typically employ centralized control architectures that manage multiple lighting circuits distributed across the airport. Conventional techniques are based on series circuit configurations where constant current regulators supply power to Lighting Elements (LEs) arranged in sequential loops. Conventional techniques commonly rely on circuit-level status indicators rather than individual LE. Additionally, conventional techniques employ dedicated wired communication networks for transmitting control signals and receiving status signals from LEs. However, the wired communication networks suffer from vulnerability to physical damage from ground maintenance equipment, weather conditions, and electromagnetic interference from aircraft operations.

[0004] Further, conventional techniques typically provide limited visibility into the operational status of each individual LEs, making fault detection and maintenance challenging. The monitoring often requires manual inspection procedures to identify failed lighting components, resulting in extended periods of reduced lighting functionality and suspension of airfield operations.

[0005] Further, electronic components within airfield lighting endure varying environmental conditions such as temperature variations, vibration from aircraft operations, and electromagnetic interference from radar and communication10259W0015 equipment. The varying environmental conditions cause premature failure of electronic components, resulting in frequent maintenance requirements and reduced availability.

[0006] Moreover, conventional techniques lead to substantial safety concerns due to vulnerability to fault. Conventional techniques typically lack redundant communication paths, making airfield lighting vulnerable to single points of failure that can compromise entire LE circuits. The vulnerability to fault potentially affects aircraft safety during critical operations.

[0007] Therefore, it is desirable to overcome one or more of above-mentioned limitations.SUMMARY

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting is disclosed. The system comprises one or more Lamp Control Units (LCUs) connected to one or more Lighting Elements (LEs) of an airfield. Further, the system comprises at least one Master Control Unit (MCU) connected to the one or more LCUs over a Power-Line- Communication (PLC) channel and a wireless communication channel. The at least one MCU is configured to receive one or more control signals from a server. The one or more control signals comprise a control state of an LE among the one or more LEs and an address of the LE. Furthermore, the at least one MCU is configured to determine a channel state of at least one of the PLC channel or the wireless communication channel corresponding to the LE with the address upon receiving the one or more control signals. The at least one MCU is configured to transmit the one or more control signals to an LCU from among the one or more LCUs corresponding to the LE with the address via at least one of the PLC channel or the wireless channel based on the determined channel state. The LCU from among the one or more LCUs is configured to control the LE with the address10259W0015 based on the one or more control signals. Each of the PLC channel and the wireless communication channel is configured to utilize a common application layer, a common presentation layer, a common session layer, a common transport layer, and a common network layer. The PLC channel is configured to utilize a PLC media access control sublayer. The wireless communication channel is configured to utilize a wireless media access control sublayer.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by at least one Master Control Unit (MCU), one or more control signals from a server. The one or more control signals comprise a control state of a Lighting Element (LE) among the one or more LEs of the airfield lighting and an address of the LE. The at least one MCU is connected to one or more Lamp Control Units (LCUs) over a Power-Line-Communication (PLC) channel and a wireless communication channel. The one or more LCUs are connected to the one or more LEs of an airfield. Further, the method includes determining, by the at least one MCU, a channel state of at least one of the PLC channel or the wireless communication channel corresponding to the LE with the address upon receiving the one or more control signals. Furthermore, the method includes transmitting, by the at least one MCU, the one or more control signals to an LCU from among the one or more LCUs corresponding to the LE with the address via at least one of the PLC channel or the wireless channel based on the determined channel state. Each of the PLC channel and the wireless communication channel is configured to utilize a common application layer, a common presentation layer, a common session layer, a common transport layer, and a common network layer. The PLC channel is configured to utilize a PLC media access control sublayer. The wireless communication channel is configured to utilize a wireless media access control sublayer.

[0011] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The10259W0015 invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail in the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0013] Figure 1 illustrates an environment for implementation of a system for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of the system for controlling and monitoring the airfield lighting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of implementation of the system for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 4A illustrates a block diagram of a Master Control Unit (MCU) of the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4B illustrates a block diagram of a Lamp Control Unit (LCU) of the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5 illustrates a process flow associated with a transmitting submodule of the MCU, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 6 illustrates a process flow associated with a receiving sub-module of the MCU, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary Open System Interconnection (OSI) model for the MCU and the one or more LCUs, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0021] Figure 8 illustrates a flow chart depicting a method for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.10259W0015

[0022] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the various embodiments, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0024] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0025] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect,” “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment,” “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0026] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded10259W0015 by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0027] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. Also, the various embodiments described herein are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments can be combined with one or more other embodiments to form new embodiments. The term “or” as used herein, refers to a non-exclusive or unless otherwise indicated. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein can be practiced and to further enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0028] As is traditional in the field, embodiments may be described and illustrated in terms of blocks that carry out a described function or functions. These blocks, which may be referred to herein as units or modules or the like, are physically implemented by analog or digital circuits such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuits, or the like, and may optionally be driven by firmware and software. Each block of the embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks without departing from the scope of the invention. Likewise, the blocks of the embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0029] The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents, and10259W0015 substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings. Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0030] Figure 1 illustrates an environment 100 for implementation of a system 108 for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting 104, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] In an embodiment, the environment 100 may be an airfield environment. The airfield environment may be a designated area of land for aircraft 110 operations, including takeoff, landing, and ground movement. The environment 100 may include a runway for aircraft 110 takeoff and landing operations, a taxiway for aircraft 110 ground movement between the runway and terminal areas, and apron areas for aircraft 110 parking and servicing. The environment 100 may provide navigation guidance for aircraft 110 during various phases of aircraft 110 operations.

[0032] The environment 100 may further include airfield lighting 104. The airfield lighting 104 may be a lighting infrastructure installed across the airfield environment. The airfield lighting 104 may provide visual guidance to aircraft pilots during low visibility conditions. The airfield lighting 104 may facilitate safe aircraft operations during nighttime and adverse weather conditions. The airfield lighting 104 may include one or more Lighting Elements (LEs) 106. The one or more LEs 106 may be individual lighting units distributed throughout the airfield environment. The one or more LEs 106 may include, but is not limited to, runway edge lights, taxiway lights, approach lights, and threshold lights. The one or more LEs 106 may provide directional guidance and boundary marking for aircraft movement. The one or more LEs 106 may operate at different brightness intensities based on visibility conditions and operational requirements.

[0033] In an embodiment, an operating state may be associated with each LE among the one or more LEs 106. The operating state may indicate a current functional status of the LE. The operating state may include, but is not limited to, an active state, an inactive state, a dimmed state, and a fault state. Each LE may be configured to operate at multiple brightness intensity levels. The multiple10259W0015 brightness intensity levels may comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. The brightness intensity levels may range from high intensity for low visibility conditions to low intensity for normal visibility conditions. The one or more LEs 106 may guide aircraft pilots through visual indication of safe operational paths within the airfield environment.

[0034] In an embodiment, the operating states of the one or more LEs 106 may be decided by a server 102. The server 102 may be an airfield control and monitoring server. The server 102 may be a centralized control unit for airfield lighting management. The server 102 may determine appropriate lighting configurations based on at least one of current weather conditions, visibility levels, and air traffic requirements. The server 102 may interface with air traffic control systems to receive operational directives. The server 102 may generate lighting control commands for specific operational scenarios. For example, the server 102 may activate high-intensity runway lights during low visibility approaches and may dim taxiway lights during normal visibility conditions.

[0035] In an embodiment, the system 108 for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting may be implemented in the environment 100. The system 108 may receive one or more control signals from the server 102. The one or more control signals may indicate desired operational configurations for the one or more LEs 106. The one or more control signals may include a control state of an LE among the one or more LEs 106 and an address of the LE. The control state may indicate the desired operational configuration for the LE. The address may indicate the specific identification and location of the LE within the airfield lighting 104. The address may be based on an Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) based address. The LE with the address may be the specific LE requiring operational control. The system 108 may control the one or more LEs 106 based on the one or more control signals. The system 108 may also be configured to monitor the operating state of the one or more LEs 106.

[0036] Detailed implementation of the system 108 is described in subsequent paragraphs in reference to Figures 2 - 8.10259W0015

[0037] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of the system 108 for controlling and monitoring the airfield lighting 104, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] In an embodiment, the system 108 may include one or more Lamp Control Units (LCUs) 204. Each LCU 204A, or 204B, or 204N among the one or more LCUs 204 may be electrically connected to a corresponding LE 106A, or 106B, ..., or 106N. Each LCU 204A, or 204B, ..., or 204N among the one or more LCUs 204 may be configured to control the corresponding LE 106 A, or 106B, ..., or 106N. Each LCU 204A, or 204B, ..., or 204N among the one or more LCUs 204 may be configured to monitor the operating state of the corresponding LE 106A, or 106B, ..., or 106N. The LCU 204 may also collect operational state from the connected LE 106 and may transmit the operational status information to the upstream.

[0039] In an embodiment, the system 108 may include at least one Master Control Unit (MCU) 202. The at least one MCU 202 may be configured to receive the one or more control signals from the server 102. The at least one MCU 202 may be configured to transmit the one or more control signals to the one or more LCUs 204 to control the one or more LEs 106. The at least one MCU 202 may act as an intermediary communication interface between the server 102 and the one or more LCUs 204. Further, the at least one MCU 202 may also be configured to communicate the operating state of the one or more LEs 106 to the server 102. The at least one MCU 202 may aggregate status information from the one or more LCUs 204 and may relay the aggregated status information to the server 102.

[0040] In an embodiment, the at least one MCU 202 may be configured to be connected to the one or more LCUs 204 over one or more communication channels. The one or more communication channels may be communication pathways for data transmission between the at least one MCU 202 and the one or more LCUs 204. The one or more communication channels may include a Power- Line-Communication (PLC) channel 206 and a wireless communication channel 208. The PLC channel 206 may be a communication medium that utilizes existing electrical power lines for data transmission. The PLC channel 206 may enable communication over the same electrical infrastructure that provides power to the10259W0015 one or more LEs 106. The PLC channel 206 may provide a reliable communication path without requiring additional cable infrastructure. The PLC channel 206 may utilize a narrow band PLC technology or a mid-range band PLC technology for long-range communication. In an exemplary embodiment, the PLC channel 206 may be configured to support physical data rates up to 300 kilobytes per second (kbps). The wireless communication channel 208 may utilize a radio frequencybased communication medium. The wireless communication channel 208 may operate without physical cable connections between the at least one MCU 202 and the one or more LCUs 204. The wireless communication channel 208 may correspond to a sub - Giga Hertz (GHz) radio frequency communication channel, i.e. the data transmission one the wireless communication channel may utilize radio frequency waves with frequency in a range of 865 Mega Hertz (MHz) to 870 MHz

[0041] Accordingly, one or more communication channels may be configured to be established between the at least one MCU 202 and each LCU 204A, or 204B, or 204N. The one or more communication channels may provide redundant communication paths for enhanced system reliability.

[0042] In an embodiment, the at least one MCU 202 and the one or more LCUs 204 may be configured to be connected in a mesh configuration. The mesh configuration may provide multiple interconnected communication paths between one or more LCUs 204. The mesh configuration may enable direct communication between any two LCUs among the one or more LCUs 202. In an advantageous aspect, the mesh configuration may provide enhanced network resilience through alternative communication routes in case of individual link failures.

[0043] Although the figure is illustrated with only one MCU connected to one or more LCUs, the present disclosure may be extended to include multiple MCUs. The one or more LCUs may be divided into one or more sets of LCUs, with each set being connected to one MCU. The system architecture may be scaled to accommodate larger airfield lighting installations with multiple MCUs managing different zones or sectors of the airfield lighting infrastructure within the scope of present disclosure.10259W0015

[0044] Further operational details of the system 108 are described in reference to Figure 3.

[0045] Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the implementation of the system for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] In an embodiment, the system 108 may be implemented with the one or more LCUs 204 connected to corresponding LEs 106A, or 106B, or 106C, ..., or 106N. The one or more LCUs 204 may receive electrical power through High Voltage (HV) power supply. The HV power may provide electrical energy required for the operation of the one or more LEs 106. The one or more LCUs 204 may control the intensity and operational states of the corresponding LEs 106 A, or 106B, or 106C, ..., or 106N.

[0047] In an embodiment, the one or more LCUs 204 may be spatially distributed across the airfield environment in proximity to the corresponding LEs 106. Each LCU among the one or more LCUs 204 may be positioned adjacent to or within the immediate vicinity of the corresponding LE.

[0048] The at least one MCU 202 may be positioned within the airfield environment to enable communication with the one or more LCUs 204. The at least one MCU 202 may be centrally located within the airfield environment to optimize communication range with the distributed one or more LCUs 204. The at least one MCU 202 may be housed in a control building or electrical substation facility within the airfield environment. The at least one MCU 202 may communicate with the one or more LCUs 204 through the PLC channel 206 utilizing the power infrastructure. The PLC channel 206 may enable simultaneous power delivery and data communication through the same electrical lines. The at least one MCU 202 may also communicate with the one or more LCUs 204 through the wireless communication channel. The wireless communication channel 208 may provide communication through radio frequency waves without requiring physical cable connections.

[0049] The server 102 may be implemented at an Air Traffic Control (ATC) 302. The ATC 302 may be a facility responsible for directing aircraft movement within controlled airspace and on airport surfaces. The ATC 302 may coordinate aircraft10259W0015 takeoff, landing, and ground movement operations to ensure aviation safety. The at least one MCU 202 may be connected to the server 102 through network infrastructure, including Optical Fiber Connections (OFC). The at least one MCU 202 may connect to a field switch through OFC. The field switch may connect to a server switch through an additional OFC. The network infrastructure may enable data transmission between the system 108 and the server 102.

[0050] Further, Central Control Room (CCR) Room 304 may connect to the system 108 through Category 6 (CAT6) network infrastructure. The CCR Room 304 may be a centralized facility for monitoring and controlling multiple airfield operations.

[0051] The system 108 may integrate power distribution, dual communication channels, and network connectivity simultaneously to provide comprehensive airfield lighting control and monitoring.

[0052] Figure 4A illustrates a block diagram of the at least one MCU 202, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4B illustrates a block diagram of the LCU 204, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] In an embodiment, the at least one MCU 202 (alternatively referred to as MCU 202) and the one or more LCUs 204 (alternatively referred to as LCU 204) may include, but is not be limited to, a processor 404A, 404B, a memory 402A, 402B, module 406 A, 406B, and data 408 A, 408B. The module 406 A, 406B may be coupled to the processor 404 A, 404B and the memory 402A, 402B.

[0054] The processor 404A, 404B may be a single processing unit or several units, wherein all units may include multiple computing units. The processor 404A, 404B may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and / or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor 404A, 404B may be adapted to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions and data stored in the memory 402 A, 402B.10259W0015

[0055] The processor 404A, 404B may be a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or a graphics processing unit (GPU), a visual processing unit (VPU), and / or an Al-dedicated processor such as a neural processing unit (NPU). The processor 404A, 404B may control the processing of the RF signal parameters in accordance with predefined signal processing techniques stored in the memory 402 A, 402B.

[0056] The memory 402A, 402B may include any non-transitory computer- readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random-access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes. The RF signal parameters, signal processing algorithms, and determined direction of arrival estimates may be stored in the memory 402A, 402B.

[0057] The data 408A, 408B may serve as a repository for storing processed data, received data, and generated data by one or more of the modules 404 A, 404B.

[0058] The modules 406A, 406B, amongst other things, may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, which perform particular tasks or implement data types. The modules 406A, 406B may also be implemented as signal processor(s), state machine(s), logic circuitries, and / or any other device or component that manipulates signals based on operational instructions.

[0059] Further, the modules 406A, 406B may be implemented in hardware, instructions executed by a processing unit, or by a combination thereof. The processing unit may comprise a computer, a processor, a state machine, a logic array, or any other suitable devices capable of processing instructions. The processing unit may be a general-purpose processor which executes instructions to cause the general-purpose processor to perform the required tasks or the processing unit may be dedicated to performing the required functions. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 404A, 404B via the modules 406A, 406B may be configured to execute machine-readable instructions (software) which perform the working of the systems 108 within the scope of the present disclosure as described in forthcoming paragraphs.10259W0015

[0060] The module 406A in the MCU 202 may include a receiving sub-module 410, a determining sub-module 412, and a transmitting sub-module 414. The module 406B of the LCU 204 may include a receiving sub-module 416, a controlling sub-module 416, a monitoring sub-module 418, and a transmitting submodule 420.

[0061] In an embodiment, the receiving sub-module 410 may be configured to receive the one or more control signals from the server 102. The receiving submodule 410 may establish a communication interface with the server 102 through the network infrastructure. The receiving sub-module 410 may be configured to continuously monitor for incoming control signals transmitted from the server 102. The one or more control signals may contain the control state of the LE among the one or more LEs and the address of the LE. The receiving sub-module 410 may be configured to parse the received control signals to extract the control state information and the address information.

[0062] In an embodiment, the determining sub-module 412 may be configured to determine a channel state of the PLC channel 206 or the wireless communication channel 208. The channel state may indicate the operational reliability and communication capability of the respective communication channel. The channel state may be a healthy channel state or an unhealthy channel state. The healthy channel state may indicate that the communication channel maintains reliable data transmission capabilities with acceptable signal quality and minimal transmission errors. The healthy channel state may enable successful bidirectional communication between the at least one MCU 202 and the one or more LCUs 204. The unhealthy channel state may indicate that the communication channel experiences degraded performance, signal interference, or communication failures that compromise reliable data transmission. The unhealthy channel state may result from physical damage to communication infrastructure, electromagnetic interference, or equipment malfunction.

[0063] The channel state may be determined based on a heartbeat signal associated with the corresponding communication channel. The determining submodule 412 may initiate transmission of the heartbeat signal to each LCU among the one or more LCUs 204 at predetermined time intervals. The heartbeat signal10259W0015 may be a periodic communication signal used to verify communication channel connectivity and operation. The determining sub-module 412 may monitor for acknowledgment responses from the one or more LCUs 204 following heartbeat signal transmission. The determining sub-module 412 may measure response time delays between heartbeat signal transmission and acknowledgement receipt. The determining sub-module 412 may analyze one or more parameters including signal strength, data transmission error rates, and communication latency to assess channel performance. The determining sub-module 412 may classify the channel state as healthy when heartbeat acknowledgements are received within acceptable parameters with minimal transmission errors. The determining sub-module 412 may classify the channel state as unhealthy when heartbeat acknowledgements are not received, exceed acceptable parameters, or contain excessive transmission errors.

[0064] The transmitting sub-module 414 may be configured to transmit the one or more control signals to the one or more LCUs 204. The transmitting sub-module 414 may receive the one or more control signals from the receiving sub-module 410 and channel state information from the determining sub-module 412 of the MCU 202. The transmitting sub-module 414 may identify the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address specified in the one or more control signals. The transmitting sub-module 414 may select an appropriate communication channel between the MCU 202 and the LCU corresponding to the addressed LE based on the determined channel state of the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208. The transmitting sub-module 414 may format the control signals according to the communication protocol requirements of the selected communication channel.

[0065] Figure 5 illustrates a process flow 500 associated with the transmitting sub-module 414 of the MCU 202, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] In an embodiment, the process flow 500, at step 502 may involve selecting the communication channel from the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 based on the determined channel state.10259W0015

[0067] In an embodiment, the PLC channel 206 may be selected if the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the unhealthy channel state. The transmitting sub-module 414 may prioritize the PLC channel 206 when the PLC channel 208 maintains reliable communication capabilities while the wireless communication channel experiences degraded performance.

[0068] Alternatively, the wireless communication channel may be selected if the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The transmitting sub-module 414 may utilize the wireless communication channel when the PLC channel 206 experiences communication failures, while the wireless communication channel 208 maintains reliable operation.

[0069] Alternatively, the PLC channel 206 may be selected over the wireless communication channel 208 if the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The transmitting sub-module 414 may default to the PLC channel 206 when both communication channels maintain healthy operational states.

[0070] In an embodiment, the process flow 500, at step 504, may involve transmitting the one or more control signals to the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

[0071] Referring again to Figures 4A-4B, the receiving sub-module 416 may be configured to receive the one or more control signals from the at least one MCU 202. The receiving sub-module 416 may continuously monitor both communication channels for incoming control signals transmitted from the at least one MCU 202. The receiving sub-module 416 may parse the received control signals to extract the control state information and verify that the address corresponds to the associated LE.

[0072] In an embodiment, the controlling sub-module 416 may be configured to control the LE based on the received one or more control signals. The controlling sub-module 416 may interpret the control state contained within the received one10259W0015 or more control signals to determine the desired configuration for the corresponding LE. The controlling sub-module 416 may generate electrical control commands corresponding to the desired operational state specified in the one or more control signals. The controlling sub-module 416 may adjust the electrical power supply to the LE to achieve the specified intensity levels. The controlling sub-module 416 may activate or deactivate the LE based on the control state.

[0073] Accordingly, the LE among the one or more LEs 106 may be controlled to operate in accordance with the control state received from the server 102. The LE may be controlled to achieve precise intensity levels as desired. The LE may be controlled to maintain consistent operational states until subsequent control signals modify the operational state.

[0074] In an embodiment, the monitoring sub-module 418 may be configured to monitor the operating state of the corresponding LE. The monitoring sub-module 418 may continuously collect operational parameters from the connected LE, including electrical current consumption, voltage levels, and operational status indicators. The monitoring sub-module 418 may detect fault conditions such as lamp failure, electrical short circuits, or abnormal power consumption patterns.

[0075] In an embodiment, the transmitting sub-module 420 may be configured to transmit one or more status signals to the at least one MCU 202. The one or more status signals may include the operational state of the corresponding LE and the address of the LE to enable proper identification at the MCU 204. The operational state information may include, but is not limited to, current intensity levels, fault status, and operational mode confirmation. The transmitting submodule 420 may transmit the one or more status signals via the PLC channel 206 or the wireless communication channel 208 based on the communication channel selected by the MCU 202.

[0076] In an embodiment, the receiving sub-module 410 may be configured to receive the one or more status signals from the LCU 204. The receiving submodule 410 may establish communication interfaces with the one or more LCUs 204 through both the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 to receive operational state of the LE.10259W0015

[0077] Figure 6 illustrates a process flow 600 associated with the receiving submodule 410 of the MCU 202, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] In an embodiment, the process flow 600, at step 602 may involve selecting the communication channel from the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 based on the determined channel state.

[0079] In an embodiment, the PLC channel 206 may be selected if the channel state of the PLC channel indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the unhealthy channel state. The receiving sub-module 410 may prioritize the PLC channel 206 when the PLC channel 206 maintains reliable communication capabilities while the wireless communication channel 208 experiences degraded performance.

[0080] Alternatively, the wireless communication channel may be selected if the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The receiving sub-module 410 may utilize the wireless communication channel 208 when the PLC channel 206 experiences communication failures while the wireless communication channel 208 maintains reliable operation.

[0081] Alternatively, the PLC channel 206 may be selected over the wireless communication channel 208 if the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The receiving sub-module 410 may default to the PLC channel 206 when both communication channels, such as 208 and 206, maintain healthy operational states.

[0082] In an embodiment, the process flow 600, at step 604 may involve receiving the one or more status signals from the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

[0083] Referring again to Figures 4A-4B, in an embodiment, the transmitting sub-module 414 of MCU 202 may be configured to transmit the one or more status10259W0015 signals to the server 102. The transmitting sub-module 414 may aggregate operation states from multiple LCUs and transmit to the server 102.

[0084] Accordingly, the operating state of the one or more LEs 106 may be monitored continuously through the monitoring sub-module 418 and communicated to the server 102 through the system 108.

[0085] In an embodiment, the system 108 may be configured to utilize the wireless communication channel 208 if the PLC channel 206 fails. In an embodiment, the transmitting sub-module 414 may be configured to attempt an exchange of the heartbeat signal with the LCU among the one or more LCUs 204 for the pre-determined time period when the at least one MCU 202 is connected to the LCU via the PLC channel 206. The pre-determined time period may indicate a duration for evaluating responsiveness and reliability of the communication channels.

[0086] The transmitting sub-module 414 may initiate the heartbeat signal transmission and monitor for corresponding acknowledgment responses within the pre-determined time period. The transmitting sub-module 414 may be configured to transmit the one or more control signals to the LCU via the wireless communication channel 208 in response to an unsuccessful attempt for the predetermined time period. The unsuccessful attempt may occur when the LCU fails to respond to heartbeat signals within the pre-determined time period, indicating potential communication failure on the PLC channel 206.

[0087] In an embodiment, in response to the unsuccessful attempt at the predetermined time period, the at least one MCU 202 may be configured to detect a breakage on the PLC channel 206. The breakage may indicate communication interruption or failure due to physical damage in the PLC channel 206. The at least one MCU 202 may be configured to determine a location of the breakage based on the address of the LE associated with the detected breakage. The at least one MCU 202 may be configured to correlate the address of the LE which did not acknowledge the heartbeat signal with the physical location within the airfield lighting infrastructure to identify the exact location of the breakage. The location determination may facilitate targeted maintenance and repair operations.10259W0015

[0088] In an embodiment, in response to the unsuccessful attempt for the predetermined time period, the transmitting sub-module 414 may be configured to transmit a notification to one or more user devices. The notification may indicate the breakage in the PLC channel 206. The notification may include information about the affected LE and the determined location of the breakage. The one or more user devices may include maintenance personnel devices, control room systems, and administrative interfaces. The notification transmission may enable immediate awareness of communication failures and facilitate rapid response to system anomalies.

[0089] In an embodiment, each of the at least one MCU 202 or the one or more LCUs 204 may be implemented on a single chipset. The single chipset may provide integrated processing capabilities for managing dual communication channel operations within a unified hardware platform. The single chipset may execute a network communication protocol to enable communication functionality across both the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208.

[0090] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary Open System Interconnection (OSI) model for the MCU and the one or more LCUs, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] In an embodiment, the network communication protocol may include a plurality of protocol layers. The plurality of protocol layers may provide structured communication functionality with defined responsibilities at each layer level. The plurality of protocol layers may include an application layer 702, a presentation layer 704, a session layer 706, a transport layer 707, a network layer 708, a data link layer 710, a PLC physical layer 716, and a wireless physical layer 718.

[0092] The application layer 702 may provide high-level communication services for airfield lighting control and monitoring applications. The application layer 702 may handle command interpretation, status reporting, and applicationspecific data formatting. The presentation layer 704 may manage data representation, encryption, and compression functions for secure and efficient data transmission. The presentation layer 704 may ensure data compatibility between different system components. The session layer 706 may provide session management, connection establishment, and connection recovery procedures10259W0015 between communicating entities. The session layer 706 may maintain communication sessions and handle session synchronization.

[0093] The transport layer 707 may provide end-to-end communication services, including data flow control, error recovery, and segmentation functions. The transport layer 707 may ensure reliable data delivery between source and destination endpoints and may handle port addressing and multiplexing for multiple concurrent communication sessions. The network layer 708 may manage routing, addressing, and packet forwarding functions within the communication network. The network layer 708 may handle Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) based addressing for the one or more LEs.

[0094] The data link layer 710 may provide error detection, error correction, and frame synchronization for reliable data transmission between adjacent network nodes. The data link layer 710 may ensure data integrity during transmission across communication channels. The data link layer 710 may include a PLC channel media access control sublayer 712 and a wireless communication channel media access control sublayer 714. The PLC channel media access control sublayer 712 may manage access control and collision avoidance for communications transmitted over the PLC channel. The PLC channel media access control sublayer 712 may coordinate multiple device access to the shared power line communication medium. The wireless communication channel media access control sublayer 714 may manage access control and collision avoidance for communications transmitted over the wireless communication channel. The wireless communication channel media access control sublayer 714 may coordinate radio frequency spectrum usage and prevent communication interference between wireless devices.

[0095] The PLC physical layer 716 may define electrical characteristics, signal modulation, and physical transmission parameters for the PLC channel. The PLC physical layer 716 may manage power line coupling and signal conditioning for data transmission over electrical infrastructure. The wireless physical layer 718 may define radio frequency characteristics, antenna specifications, and wireless transmission parameters for the wireless communication channel. The wireless physical layer 718 may manage radio frequency signal generation and reception10259W0015 for wireless data transmission. The network communication protocol may be implemented at all the one or more LCUs 204 and the at least one MCU 202 to ensure consistent communication functionality across the system 108. The network communication protocol may be implemented on both the transmitting side and the receiving side of the communication channels to enable bidirectional data exchange between system components.

[0096] In an embodiment, each of the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 may be configured to utilize a common application layer 702, a common presentation layer 704, a common session layer 706, a common transport layer 707, and a common network layer 708. The PLC channel 206 may be configured to utilize the PLC media access control sublayer 712 in the data link layer 710. The wireless communication channel 208 may be configured to utilize the wireless media access control sublayer 714 in the data link layer 710. The single chipset implementation may enable dual mode communication capabilities through shared upper protocol layers while maintaining channelspecific media access control implementations for optimized performance across both communication channels.

[0097] The single chipset implementation may enable dual-mode communication through shared upper protocol layers while maintaining channelspecific media access control and physical layer implementations for performance across both communication channels. The shared upper protocol layers may reduce computational overhead and memory requirements by eliminating protocol duplication within the single chipset. The shared upper protocol layers may enable seamless switching between communication channels without requiring modification or data reformatting of application layer.

[0098] Figure 8 illustrates a flow chart depicting a method 800 for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 800 may be a computer-implemented method executed by the at least one MCU 202 and the one or more LCUs 204 of the system 108. For the sake of brevity, constructional and operational features of the system that are already explained in the description of the previous figures are not explained in detail in the description of Figure 8.10259W0015

[0099] The method 800, at step 802, involves receiving, by the at least one MCU 202, one or more control signals from the server 102. The one or more control signals include a control state of the LE among the one or more LEs of the airfield lighting and an address of the LE. In the step 802, the at least one MCU 202 may be connected to one or more LCUs 204 over the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208. In the step 802, the one or more LCUs 204 may be connected to the one or more LEs 106 of the airfield.

[0100] Thereafter, at step 804, the method 800 involves determining, by the at least one MCU 202, a channel state of at least one of the PLC channel 206, or the wireless communication channel 208 corresponding to the LE with the address. The determining the channel state may occur upon receiving the one or more control signals.

[0101] Subsequently, at step 806, the method 800 involves transmitting, by the at least one MCU 202, the one or more control signals to the LCU from among the one or more LCUs 204 corresponding to the LE with the address via at least one of the PLC channel 206 or the wireless communication channel 208 based on the determined channel state.

[0102] The method 800 may further involve selecting a communication channel from the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 for transmitting the one or more control signals. The selection of the communication channel may include selecting the PLC channel 206 in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the unhealthy channel state. The selection of the communication channel may comprise selecting the wireless communication channel 208 in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The selection of the communication channel may include selecting at least one of the PLC channel 206 or the wireless communication channel 208 in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy10259W0015 channel state. The method 800 may involve transmitting the one or more control signals to the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

[0103] The method 800 may further involve monitoring, using the LCU 204, the operating state of the LE. The method 800 may involve transmitting, using the LCU 204, the one or more status signal to the at least one MCU 202 via at least one of the PLC channel 206 or the wireless communication channel 208. The one or more status signals may include the operational state of the corresponding LE. The method 800 may involve receiving at least one MCU 202, the one or more status signals from the LCU 204. The method 800 may involve transmitting, using the at least one MCU 202, the one or more status signals to the server 102.

[0104] The method 800 may further involve selecting a communication channel from the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 for receiving the one or more status signals. The selection of the communication channel may comprise selecting the PLC channel 206 in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the unhealthy channel state. The selection of the communication channel may include selecting the wireless communication channel 208 in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The selection of the communication channel may include selecting the PLC channel 206 over the wireless communication channel 208 in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel 206 indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel 208 indicates the healthy channel state. The method 800 may involve receiving the one or more status signals from the LCU 204 corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

[0105] In the method 800, each of the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208 may be configured to utilize the common application layer, the common presentation layer, the common transition layer, the common10259W0015 network layer, and the common data link layer. The PLC channel may be configured to utilize the PLC media access control layer. The wireless communication channel may be configured to utilize the wireless media access control layer.

[0106] At least by virtue of the aforesaid, the present subject matter at least provides the following advantages:

[0107] The present disclosure herein provides dual communication channels comprising the Power-Line-Communication (PLC) channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208, thereby ensuring communication redundancy and enhanced system reliability in airfield lighting control operations.

[0108] The present disclosure herein implements dynamic channel selection based on real-time channel state determination, thereby enabling automatic switching between communication channels, such as PLC channel 206 to wireless communication channel 208, to maintain continuous communication even when one channel experiences degraded performance or failure conditions.

[0109] The present disclosure herein utilizes a single chipset implementation with shared upper protocol layers for both the PLC channel 206 and the wireless communication channel 208, thereby reducing hardware complexity and computational overhead while enabling efficient dual mode communication capabilities.

[0110] The present disclosure herein provides mesh configuration connectivity between the MCU 202 and the one or more LCUs 204, thereby creating multiple communication paths and enhancing network resilience through alternative routing in case of individual link failures.[oni] The present disclosure herein utilizes Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) based addressing for the one or more Lighting Elements (LEs), thereby providing scalable addressing capabilities for large airfield lighting installations with extensive LE deployments.

[0112] The present disclosure herein enables automatic detection of breakage in the PLC channel 206 and determination of breakage location based on the address10259W0015 of the affected LE, thereby facilitating rapid fault diagnosis and maintenance operations.

[0113] The present disclosure herein transmits notifications to user devices upon detection of communication channel failures, thereby providing immediate alert for system administrators and maintenance personnel.

[0114] The present disclosure herein enables centralized control of distributed airfield lighting elements through the server while maintaining individual LE precision control.

[0115] The present disclosure herein demonstrate high reliability under varying environmental conditions. Furthermore, the present disclosure achieve performance requirements by airfield application including low latency communication, fast data transfers, secure data transmission, and support for simplified installation, configuration, fault detection, and maintenance procedures.

[0116] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0117] The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein.

Claims

10259W0015WE CLAIM:

1. A system (108) for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, the system (108) comprising: one or more Lamp Control Units (LCUs) (204) connected to one or more Lighting Elements (LEs) (106) of an airfield; and at least one Master Control Unit (MCU) (202) connected to the one or more LCUs (204) over a Power-Line-Communication (PLC) channel (206) and a wireless communication channel (208), wherein: the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: receive one or more control signals from a server (102), wherein the one or more control signals comprise a control state of an LE among the one or more LEs (106) and an address of the LE, determine a channel state of at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208) corresponding to the LE with the address, upon receiving the one or more control signals, and transmit the one or more control signals to an LCU from among the one or more LCUs (204) corresponding to the LE with the address via at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208) based on the determined channel state; the LCU from among the one or more LCUs (204) being configured to: control the LE with the address based on the one or more control signals; each of the PLC channel (206) and the wireless communication channel (208) is configured to utilize a common application layer (702), a common presentation layer (704), a common session layer (706), a common transport layer (707), and a common network layer (708); the PLC channel (206) is configured to utilize a PLC media access control sublayer (712); and the wireless communication channel (208) is configured to utilize a wireless media access control sublayer (714).

2. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein: the LCU from among the one or more LCUs (204) being configured to: monitor an operating state of the LE, and10259W0015 transmit one or more status signal to the at least one MCU (202) via at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208), wherein the one or more status signals comprise the operational state of the corresponding LE; and the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: receive the one or more status signals from the LCU; and transmit the one or more status signals to the server (102).

3. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein to transmit the one or more control signals, at least one MCU (202) is configured to: select a communication channel from the PLC channel (206) and the wireless communication channel (208), wherein to select the communication channel, the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: select the PLC channel (206) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates a healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates an unhealthy channel state; select the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; or select the PLC channel (206) over the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; and transmit the one or more control signals to the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

4. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein to receive the one or more status signals, the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: select a communication channel from the PLC channel (206) and the wireless communication channel (208), wherein to select the communication channel, the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: select the PLC channel (206) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates a healthy channel state and10259W0015 the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates an unhealthy channel state; select the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; or select the PLC channel (206) over the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; and receive the one or more status signals from the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

5. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wireless communication channel (208) corresponds to a sub - Giga Hertz (GHz) radio frequency communication channel.

6. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the address of the LE is based on an Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) based address.

7. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one MCU (202) is configured to determine the channel state based on a heartbeat signal associated with the corresponding communication channel.

8. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one MCU (202) is connected to the one or more LCUs (204) in a mesh configuration.

9. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: attempt an exchange of a heartbeat signal with the LCU among the one or more LCUs (204) for a pre-determined time period, when the at least one MCU (202) is connected to the LCU via the PLC channel (206); and transmit the one or more control signals to the LCU via the wireless communication channel (208) in response to an unsuccessful attempt for the predetermined time period.

10. The system as claimed in claim 9, wherein in response to the unsuccessful attempt for the pre-determined time period, the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: detect a breakage in the PLC channel (206); and10259W0015 determine a location of the breakage based on the address of the LE associated with the detected breakage.

11. The system as claimed in claim 9, wherein in response to the unsuccessful attempt for the pre-determined time period, the at least one MCU (202) is configured to: transmit a notification to one or more user devices, wherein the notification indicates a breakage in the PLC channel (206).

12. A method (800) for controlling and monitoring airfield lighting, the method (800) comprising: receiving (802), by at least one Master Control Unit (MCU) (202), one or more control signals from a server (102), wherein the one or more control signals comprise a control state of a Lighting Element (LE) among the one or more LEs (106) of the airfield lighting and an address of the LE, wherein: the at least one MCU (202) is connected to one or more Lamp Control Units (LCUs) (204) over a Power-Line-Communication (PLC) channel (206) and a wireless communication channel (208), and the one or more LCUs (204) are connected to the one or more LEs (106) of an airfield; determining (804), by the at least one MCU (202), a channel state of at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (204) corresponding to the LE with the address, upon receiving the one or more control signals, and transmitting (806), by the at least one MCU (202), the one or more control signals to an LCU from among the one or more LCUs (204) corresponding to the LE with the address via at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208) based on the determined channel state; wherein: each of the PLC channel (206) and the wireless communication channel (208) is configured to utilize a common application layer (702), a common presentation layer (704), a common session layer (706), a common transport layer (707), and a common network layer (708); the PLC channel (206) is configured to utilize a PLC media access control sublayer (712); and the wireless communication channel (208) is configured to utilize a wireless media access control sublayer (714).10259W001513. A method (800) as claimed in claim 11, the method (800) comprising: monitoring, using the LCU, an operating state of the LE; transmitting, using the LCU, one or more status signal to the at least one MCU (202) via at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208), wherein the one or more status signals comprise the operational state of the corresponding LE; receiving, at the at least one MCU (202), the one or more status signals from the LCU; and transmitting, using the at least one MCU (202), the one or more status signals to the server (102).

14. The method (800) as claimed in claim 11, wherein transmitting (806) the one or more control signals comprises: selecting a communication channel from the PLC channel (206) and the wireless communication channel (208), wherein selecting the communication channel comprises: selecting the PLC channel (206) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates a healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates an unhealthy channel state; selecting the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; or selecting at least one of the PLC channel (206) or the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; and transmitting the one or more control signals to the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

15. The method (800) as claimed in claim 12, wherein receiving the one or more status signals comprises:10259W0015 selecting a communication channel from the PLC channel (206) and the wireless communication channel (208), wherein selecting the communication channel comprises: selecting the PLC channel (206) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates a healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates an unhealthy channel state; selecting the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the unhealthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; or selecting the PLC channel (206) over the wireless communication channel (208) in response to the determination that the channel state of the PLC channel (206) indicates the healthy channel state and the channel state of the wireless communication channel (208) indicates the healthy channel state; and receiving the one or more status signals from the LCU corresponding to the LE with the address via the selected communication channel.

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