IR Lighting Control via Reflected Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting systems lack interactivity and user control, as they typically rely on direct actuation of switches, failing to provide a dynamic and responsive lighting experience.
Innovation Solution
A system of interconnected lighting apparatus featuring IR transmitters and receivers with unique signal patterns, allowing processors to control light sources based on reflected IR signals, enabling user interaction and control through motion detection and programmable sequences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional direct switch actuation is used, then the lighting system is simple to operate, but it lacks interactivity and user engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that includes motion sensors, IR transmitters/receivers, and a processor. This intermediary layer mediates between the user's physical actions (motion, hand waves) and the lighting response, enabling interactive control without direct switch actuation. The intermediary processes sensor data and generates appropriate lighting commands, thus providing interactivity while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If multiple sensors and processors are added to enable interaction, then user control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed with multi-functional components that perform multiple operations. The processor handles motion detection coordination, IR signal generation, signal reception, and lighting control simultaneously. The IR transmitters and receivers serve both as communication devices and as part of the motion detection system. This universality allows comprehensive user control capability while limiting the total number of discrete components.
3Speed
If IR signals are transmitted and received for motion detection, then responsiveness to user actions is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IR transmission and reception operations are conducted periodically rather than continuously. The system transmits IR signals at specific intervals and activates sensors only when motion is detected or during predetermined time windows. This periodic operation maintains high responsiveness to user actions while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and transmission.
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
The system provides an interactive and responsive lighting experience, allowing users to control light patterns and sequences dynamically, enhancing user engagement and adaptability while maintaining high sensitivity and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the IR transmitter being configured to emit an IR signal and the IR receiver being configured to receive the IR signal reflected from a surface
Data Source
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AI summary
A lighting apparatus comprising a plurality of lighting units. Each lighting unit comprises: a light source, a paired IR transmitter and IR receiver. The IR transmitter is configured to emit an IR signal and the IR receiver is configured to receive the IR signal reflected from a surface. The IR signal is different for each of the plurality of lighting units. The apparatus also comprising a processor, the processor being configured for each of the plurality of lighting units to output one or more control signals to control the light source in response to the IR receiver receiving the reflected IR signal.