LED Control via PoE Network Infrastructure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing LED illumination control systems often rely on complex command structures developed for AC incandescent lamps, requiring multiple commands for simple operations and lacking efficient digital interfaces for DC power and power over Ethernet (PoE) applications.

Innovation Solution

A digital command structure for LED illumination control that includes a processor to receive illumination control packets and pulse modulate signals for color control, using PoE or low voltage wiring to power LED lighting units, with RJ45 sockets for Ethernet connections, enabling efficient control of multiple colors through pulse frequency and width modulation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing illumination control systems developed for AC incandescent lamps are used for LED control, then compatibility with traditional systems is maintained, but the command structure becomes complicated and requires multiple commands for simple operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with traditional systemsVSAvoidcommand structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the control interface by transitioning from AC-based control protocols to DC-compatible digital interfaces. The system implements simplified digital command structures that are native to LED operation, eliminating the need for complex multi-command sequences required by traditional AC incandescent control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical/electrical control mechanisms with digital communication interfaces. By using digital protocols over Ethernet and other network infrastructures, the system substitutes complex electrical control circuits with software-based command structures, significantly reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If separate power and control wiring is used for LED lighting, then reliable power delivery is ensured, but wiring requirements increase and installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower delivery reliabilityVSAvoidwiring requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges power delivery and data communication functions into a single integrated infrastructure. By combining power and control signals into unified wiring systems, the patent eliminates the need for separate power and control cables, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable power delivery through properly designed combined circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements multi-functional wiring systems that simultaneously handle power delivery, data communication, and control functions. This universal approach allows existing network infrastructure to serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for additional dedicated wiring while ensuring reliable operation of LED lighting systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional illumination control protocols are used for LED color control, then existing control infrastructure is utilized, but precise color control and energy optimization become difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveutilization of existing control infrastructureVSAvoidcolor control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional analog or simple digital control protocols with sophisticated digital communication interfaces. By using network-based protocols, the system achieves precise digital control of LED color parameters, enabling accurate color rendering and intensity control that far exceeds the capabilities of traditional illumination control infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms through the digital control interface, allowing the system to monitor and adjust LED output in real-time. This enables precise color control and energy optimization by continuously comparing actual output with target parameters and making corrective adjustments, a capability absent in traditional control infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This solution simplifies LED illumination control, reduces wiring requirements, and optimizes energy consumption by allowing for precise color control and monitoring, enabling better lighting management and extended fixture life.

Implementation Method 1

A digital command structure for LED illumination control that includes a processor to receive illumination control packets and pulse modulate signals for color control

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPulse modulation:

Implementation Method 2

enabling efficient control of multiple colors through pulse frequency and width modulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPulse frequency modulation:

Implementation Method 3

enabling efficient control of multiple colors through pulse frequency and width modulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPulse width modulation:

Data Source

PatentUS9101028B2Powering and/or controlling LEDs using a network infrastructure
Publication Date: 2015.08.04 MECHOSHADE SYSTEMS LLC
  • US9101028B2 patent drawing
  • US9101028B2 patent drawing
  • US9101028B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The subject matter disclosed herein provides methods and apparatus, including computer program products, for controlling and power lighting units connected to a network controller. In one aspect there is provided a method that may include receiving at a first input power from a power supply; receiving at a second input one or more illumination control packets from a data processing device via one or more network connections; transmitting from a first output power to one or more lighting units; and powering from a second output an illumination level of one or more colors associated with the one or more lighting units in accordance with the one or more illumination control packets via the one or more network connections. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.