Hub-Based Motion Detection Using Distributed Light-Based Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional building temperature sensing systems face challenges in providing high-resolution temperature data due to the limited number of temperature sensors, which hinders energy efficiency and comfort, as they require wiring for power and data communication, and are interfered with by heat emitted from light sources in integrated sensors.
Innovation Solution
Integrating temperature and motion sensors into light bulbs that utilize existing power wiring for operation and wireless communication, with data processors to adjust temperature measurements by applying correction factors based on light source states and heat interference, allowing for distributed sensing and coordination with HVAC systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional temperature sensors are positioned at limited locations, then wiring complexity is reduced, but temperature measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the building into multiple zones with distributed temperature sensors positioned at different locations (ceilings, walls, floors). Each sensor independently measures temperature in its local zone, enabling high-resolution spatial temperature mapping without requiring complex centralized wiring infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates temperature sensing capability into existing light bulb fixtures, making the lighting infrastructure multi-functional. The light bulbs serve both illumination and temperature sensing purposes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated temperature sensor installations and their associated wiring.
2Measurement precision
If temperature sensors are integrated into light bulbs, then distributed sensing capability is improved, but heat interference from light sources worsens measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the temperature sensing function from the light bulb housing and positions it in a location thermally isolated from the light source (e.g., in the socket or mounting fixture). This separates the heat-generating light source from the temperature measurement point, allowing accurate ambient temperature sensing while maintaining the benefits of integrated lighting-sensing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces thermal isolation barriers or intermediary structures between the light source and temperature sensor. These intermediaries (such as heat sinks, thermal barriers, or spatial separations) prevent direct heat transfer from the light bulb to the sensor, maintaining measurement accuracy while allowing the sensor to remain integrated with the lighting fixture.
3Measurement precision
If distributed light-based sensors are deployed throughout the building, then temperature data resolution is improved, but system complexity and coordination requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates data from multiple distributed temperature sensors into a centralized building management system or cloud platform. The system aggregates, processes, and presents unified temperature maps and analytics, simplifying the complexity of coordinating numerous distributed sensors into a single manageable interface for building operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback loops where temperature data from distributed sensors continuously monitors environmental conditions and automatically triggers HVAC system adjustments. This closed-loop control reduces the need for manual coordination of individual sensors, as the system self-regulates based on real-time temperature measurements from the distributed network.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables high-resolution ambient temperature and motion monitoring, improving energy efficiency and comfort by leveraging existing lighting infrastructure, while minimizing interference from light source heat and enhancing data accuracy through preprocessing and dynamic correction factors.
Implementation Method 1
ambient light and/or motion can be measured at light bulbs
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided herein for determining motion in a volume using a lighting based sensor. A status of a light is determined with which a motion sensor is associated. Motion measurements are received from the motion sensor. Based on the motion measurements, a motion score is determined. A room status is adjusted based on the motion score.