Distributed Lighting Control with Random Delay Oscillation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrally controlled lighting systems are vulnerable to failure if the central controller becomes inoperative or if connections are severed, leading to loss of automated control over lighting devices, and do not allow for immediate overrides in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
Distributed lighting control system with independently controllable lights equipped with controllers, sensors, and actuators that can adjust light levels based on detected trigger events, using random delay times and profiles to prevent oscillations and ensure uniform lighting distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centrally controlled lighting system is used, then all lighting devices can be controlled from one location and energy costs are reduced, but the system becomes vulnerable to failure if the central controller becomes inoperative or connections are severed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized lighting control system into multiple independent distributed controllers, each responsible for controlling lighting devices in its local area. This segmentation eliminates the single point of failure at the central controller while maintaining the ability to control lighting across the entire building through coordinated operation of multiple independent units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local control capabilities at each lighting device or zone through distributed controllers, allowing each unit to make autonomous decisions based on local sensor data. This local quality approach ensures that if one controller fails, others continue to operate independently, thereby improving overall system reliability while maintaining ease of operation.
2Extent of automation
If a centrally controlled lighting system is used, then automated lighting control is achieved, but immediate override in emergency situations cannot be made from anywhere but the controller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control authority across multiple distributed controllers located throughout the building, allowing any controller or user interface to initiate emergency overrides. This eliminates the restriction that only the central controller can perform overrides, while automated control continues to function through the distributed network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal control capability where multiple distributed controllers and user interfaces can perform both automated control functions and emergency override functions. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain automated operation under normal conditions while enabling immediate emergency overrides from any location through any controller.
3Loss of energy
If light levels are adjusted rapidly in response to sensor changes, then energy efficiency is improved, but oscillations occur causing non-uniform lighting distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic sampling of sensor data and periodic adjustment of light levels rather than continuous rapid adjustment. By introducing time-based periodicity into the control cycle, the system maintains energy efficiency through responsive control while preventing oscillations that would cause non-uniform lighting distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary filtering and threshold checking to sensor inputs before triggering light level adjustments. This preliminary action prevents premature or unnecessary adjustments that could cause oscillations, while still maintaining energy efficiency by responding meaningfully to genuine changes in occupancy or ambient light conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method of controlling a light are disclosed. One light apparatus includes a light and a controller. The controller is operative to detect a light adjusting trigger event, select a random delay time, and adjust the light, wherein the light adjustment occurs the random delay time after detecting the light adjusting trigger event.