LED Optical Lighting Control for Non-Invasive Smart Building Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current building control systems lack integrated, cost-effective solutions for transforming standard fixtures into smart buildings, especially in spaces with unique architectural features or sensitive environments, where traditional wiring can be damaging or impractical.
Innovation Solution
The integration of LED-based light systems with optical transceivers and controllers that enable communication over infrared and broadband optical transmission, allowing for wireless control of lighting and environmental conditions, compatible with standard fixtures and suitable for various architectural settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wiring methods are used to control building systems, then reliable control can be achieved, but unique architectural features may be damaged and installation becomes invasive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical wiring systems with optical communication systems using LEDs and photodetectors. Data is transmitted through light signals between LED-based light fixtures and photodetector receivers, eliminating the need for invasive physical wiring while maintaining reliable control functionality for building systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical signals as an intermediary medium for control system communication. Instead of direct electrical wiring between control devices and light fixtures, the system uses LED light emission and photodetector reception as intermediate steps to transmit control data, enabling non-invasive installation that preserves architectural features.
2Ease of operation
If LED-based optical communication systems are implemented, then non-invasive installation is achieved, but communication reliability and data transmission effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic modulation techniques where LEDs rapidly switch between on and off states to encode data signals. The photodetectors similarly dynamically detect these light variations. This dynamic operation enables reliable digital communication through optical signals while maintaining the simplicity of non-invasive LED fixture installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic light pulses from LEDs to transmit data information to photodetectors. By modulating the LED light output in regular periodic patterns corresponding to binary data (on/off cycles), the system achieves reliable communication transmission without requiring complex installation, leveraging the periodic nature of light emission for robust signal delivery.
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 enables the transformation of standard fixtures into smart building systems, reducing waste, allowing for flexible and non-invasive installation, and providing efficient energy management and control without damaging unique architectural features.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light emitting diode with a first mode to communicate using infrared light and a second mode to communicate using broadband optical transmission
Implementation Method 2
communicate using infrared light
Implementation Method 3
at least one photodetector attached thereto
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed with one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) with at least one optical transmitter and receiver optically coupled to an optical network over 1 Mbps using at least one LED with a first mode to communicate using infrared (IR) light and a second mode to communicate using broadband optical transmission; and a controller coupled to the LEDs, the controller communicating with the optical network using the optical transmitter and receiver.