Distributed Lighting Fixture Sensor Data Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional lighting control systems rely on central controllers to manage lighting fixtures, which limits decentralized control and coordination among fixtures, especially in dynamic environments where ambient light and occupancy levels vary.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a distributed lighting control system where each lighting fixture is equipped with sensors and a communication interface, allowing them to share sensor data and operate independently while coordinating with other fixtures to adjust light output based on ambient light and occupancy levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a central controller is used to manage lighting fixtures, then centralized control is achieved, but decentralized control and coordination among fixtures are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized control function into distributed control nodes within each lighting fixture. Each fixture contains its own controller that can independently process sensor data and make control decisions, segmenting the monolithic central controller into multiple autonomous units that maintain coordination through inter-fixture communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The control architecture transitions from a static centralized model to a dynamic distributed model where control authority can be flexibly allocated. Fixtures can operate autonomously based on local sensor conditions while also coordinating with neighboring fixtures, allowing the system to adapt its control strategy dynamically based on environmental factors and occupancy patterns.
2Device complexity
If lighting fixtures operate independently without coordination, then device complexity is reduced, but coordination among fixtures in dynamic environments is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces communication interfaces and protocols as intermediaries between independently operating fixtures. These intermediaries enable fixtures to exchange sensor data and control commands with neighboring fixtures, allowing coordinated responses to dynamic environmental conditions while maintaining the simplicity of independent fixture operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each lighting fixture is equipped with sensors that continuously monitor ambient light levels and occupancy conditions. This feedback information is processed locally and shared with adjacent fixtures through communication interfaces, enabling coordinated control decisions that respond dynamically to changing environmental conditions while preserving fixture independence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensor data is shared among fixtures, then adaptive lighting control is enhanced, but communication infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication functions into integrated communication modules within each lighting fixture. These modules handle sensor data exchange, control command transmission, and coordination protocols through unified interfaces, reducing the overall communication infrastructure complexity while enabling comprehensive adaptive lighting control across the distributed fixture network.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting fixture having a light source, a light sensor, a communication interface, and circuitry is described. In addition to controlling the light source, the circuitry is adapted to monitor for a light signal provided from a handheld device via the light sensor; upon receiving the light signal, measure a signal level associated with the light signal; and effect transmission of the signal level to the handheld device via the communication interface. In one embodiment, the circuitry is further configured to receive an instruction to monitor for the light signal from the handheld device via the communication interface such that the circuitry begins monitoring for the light signal upon receiving the instruction.