LED Light Control Assembly for VLEC Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current building management systems face challenges in energy management due to varying occupant preferences and habits, peak energy usage, and inefficiencies in lighting control, leading to increased electrical and thermal energy consumption. Additionally, existing communication systems rely on wires and radio waves, which are prone to interference and lack specific localization, making them unreliable for secure and efficient data transmission.
Innovation Solution
The integration of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) for both illumination and communication, using visible light to transmit data securely and efficiently, allowing for flexible lighting control and secure wireless communication. This system, known as Visible Light Embedded Communication (VLEC), enables simultaneous illumination and high-speed data transmission, is untethered, and can interface with existing electrical wiring, providing a secure and reliable communication channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional lighting control systems are used, then lighting can be provided, but energy consumption increases due to lack of dynamic control and peak usage inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic lighting control by enabling individual LED control through a controller that receives control signals, allowing real-time adjustment of lighting based on occupancy and preferences. This dynamic control enables the system to adapt to varying needs throughout the day, turning lights off in unoccupied areas and adjusting intensity in occupied areas, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the lighting system into individually controllable LED units distributed throughout the building. Each LED or group of LEDs can be controlled independently through the controller, allowing granular control over lighting in different zones and rooms. This segmentation enables precise energy management by activating only the necessary lighting segments based on real-time occupancy detection.
2Reliability
If wired communication systems are used, then data transmission can be achieved, but the system becomes complex and prone to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional wired mechanical communication systems with optical communication using LEDs. By modulating the light output of LEDs, the system transmits data wirelessly through visible or infrared light, eliminating the need for complex wiring infrastructure. This substitution maintains reliable communication while significantly reducing system complexity and susceptibility to electromagnetic interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables LEDs to serve dual functions: providing illumination and transmitting communication signals. The same LED array used for lighting also acts as the communication medium, eliminating the need for separate communication hardware and wiring. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable data transmission capabilities throughout the building.
3Ease of operation
If radio wave communication is used, then wireless communication can be achieved, but interference and noise affect transmission quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes radio wave communication with optical communication using modulated LED light. By using visible or infrared light as the transmission medium, the system achieves wireless communication capability while avoiding the interference and noise problems associated with radio frequencies. Optical signals are not subject to electromagnetic interference from other electronic devices, providing cleaner and more reliable transmission.
4Device complexity
If common switches control multiple lights, then circuit simplicity is maintained, but inrush current and peak demand increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lighting control into individually addressable LED units, each controllable through the central controller. This segmentation allows the system to activate only the specific LEDs needed in each moment, rather than turning on entire circuits controlled by common switches. The controller manages power distribution to individual LED segments based on real-time requirements, reducing peak inrush current while maintaining simple circuit wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of individual LED segments through the controller, enabling real-time adjustment of which lights are active. This dynamic control allows the system to gradually activate LEDs or activate them in sequences rather than all at once, reducing peak inrush current. The controller can manage power distribution dynamically based on occupancy detection and lighting requirements, maintaining circuit simplicity while optimizing power consumption.
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
VLEC systems improve energy management by allowing for dynamic lighting control and reduce energy consumption while providing a secure, high-speed communication solution that is resistant to interference, enhancing both communication and data transmission capabilities within buildings.
Implementation Method 1
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) may be used as light sources for data transmission
Implementation Method 2
LED technology provides a practical opportunity to combine lighting and communication
Implementation Method 3
The system includes a photodetector in communication with the processor for receiving the light signal
Data Source
AI summary
An LED light and communication system is in communication with a broadband over power line communications system. The LED light and communication system includes at least one optical transceiver light fixture. The optical transceiver light fixture includes a plurality of light emitting diodes, at least one photodetector, and a processor. A facility control unit is in communication with the light emitting diode light fixtures and a control server. The facility control unit is constructed and arranged to control the operation of the optical transceiver light fixtures.