Autonomous Distributed Lighting Nodes with Tag-Driven Policy Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems rely on central controllers for operation and require connection to building power for backup battery charging, leading to limitations in autonomy and functionality during power losses or communication disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A distributed LED lighting system with a tag-driven network architecture allows nodes to operate autonomously, execute policies locally, and charge batteries using variable voltages, enabling continued functionality even without central control or building power connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a central controller is used to control lighting nodes, then system coordination and policy management are improved, but system reliability deteriorates when communication is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized control system into autonomous distributed nodes. Each lighting node contains local memory storing policy information and control logic, enabling independent decision-making without continuous central controller communication. This segmentation allows the system to maintain coordination capabilities while ensuring operation continuity even when communication is lost.
2Ease of manufacture
If building power wiring is required for battery charging, then charging infrastructure is simplified, but installation flexibility and autonomy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables lighting nodes to perform multiple functions: they can charge batteries from building power wiring when available, but also operate autonomously using stored energy and local policy information when wiring is unavailable. This multi-functionality allows the same node design to be installed in both wired and wireless locations, significantly improving installation flexibility while maintaining charging capability where possible.
3Reliability
If nodes operate autonomously with local policy storage, then reliability during communication loss is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing policy information and control logic in the memory of each lighting node during system installation or initial configuration. This allows nodes to immediately execute autonomous operations when communication is lost, without requiring complex real-time decision-making algorithms. The complexity is front-loaded during setup rather than being inherent in the operational node structure.
4Reliability
If backup power supplies are connected to building power wiring, then charging reliability is improved, but autonomy during power loss deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power supply adaptation where lighting nodes automatically switch between wired power charging and autonomous battery operation based on real-time conditions. When building power is available, nodes charge reliably from wiring; when power is lost, nodes seamlessly transition to autonomous operation using stored energy. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptable to different power availability scenarios rather than being fixed to one mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method that uses a tag-driven network architecture controlled by one or more central controllers. Unique tags are associated with various system components such as remote switches, sensors and other peripherals. A tag is assigned to a node when the node is first entered into the network. A distributed policy creates relationships between tags of various different equipment. The tag typically defines what the policy is for a particular local node. The node executes the policy that is supplied in its tag by accessing a recipe associated with that tag. If a device is not working, other similar devices can take over its task simply by executing the recipe associated with the failed device's tag instead of their own.