IP Network Lighting Control via Zone Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting networks in buildings require numerous manual switches and dimmers to adjust lighting conditions in different zones, making it difficult to achieve desired brightness levels and energy efficiency across various areas, especially in large settings with diverse lighting needs.
Innovation Solution
An IP network system that divides loads into zones and subzones, with controllers connected to sensors and a main host that transmits control messages based on environmental data to adjust operational parameters of loads, such as lighting, temperature, and HVAC systems, using IP addresses and subzone parameters to manage lighting conditions dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manually operated switches and dimmers are used to control lighting in different zones, then individual lighting control is achieved, but the system complexity and number of control devices increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the building into multiple zones and subzones, with each zone managed by a dedicated controller. This segmentation allows independent control of lighting in different areas without requiring manual switches for every light fixture, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining individual zone control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controllers in the patent serve multiple functions: they receive control messages, process environmental sensor data, manage lighting loads, and communicate over the IP network. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate manual switches and dimmers, reducing device complexity while preserving lighting control capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If numerous manual switches and dimmers are installed to control lighting in different zones, then individual lighting adjustment is possible, but installation and maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces controllers as intermediary devices between the IP network and the lighting loads. These controllers handle all adjustment operations through software and network communication, eliminating the need for physical manual switches and dimmers. This intermediary layer simplifies installation and maintenance while preserving the ability to adjust lighting conditions in each zone independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical switches and dimmers with electronic controllers that communicate over an IP network. This substitution eliminates mechanical components that require physical installation and maintenance, while providing equivalent or superior lighting adjustment capabilities through software-based control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual control devices are used for each lighting zone, then lighting can be adjusted for different occasions, but energy efficiency and automation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where controllers continuously receive environmental sensor data (such as occupancy, natural light levels, and temperature) and automatically adjust lighting conditions accordingly. This automated feedback-based control maintains adaptability for different occasions while eliminating the need for manual intervention, thereby increasing the extent of automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system in the patent is designed to self-adjust based on sensor inputs and pre-configured policies. Controllers automatically make lighting adjustments without requiring manual switches or dimmers, enabling the system to serve itself while maintaining adaptability for different occasions and occupancy patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter disclosed herein provides methods for controlling loads in an IP network that is divided into one or more zones and/or subzones. In one aspect, there is provided a method that can associate a plurality of controllers with one of a plurality of zones. Each controller can be connected to one or more loads. The method can associate each controller with an address. The address can include a network address and a host identifier. The network address for each controller in a first zone can be the same. The method can transmit over a network a control message to each controller in the first zone. The control message can cause one or more operational parameters of the loads connected to each controller in the first zone to change. Related apparatus, computer program products, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.