LED Optical Transceiver Lighting for Wire-Free Building Control

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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 is impractical or damaging.

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

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional wiring methods are used to control building systems, then reliable control can be achieved, but installation costs increase and architectural features may be damaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

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 transceivers installed in light fixtures, eliminating the need for complex electrical wiring while maintaining reliable control of building systems.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates multiple functions into existing light fixtures. The same fixtures that provide illumination also serve as transceivers for data communication and control signals, eliminating the need for separate control wiring infrastructure.

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

2Ease of manufacture

If wireless communication systems like Wi-Fi are used, then ease of installation is improved, but reliability and control precision deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidcontrol reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses light as an intermediary medium for data transmission between fixtures. Optical transceivers convert electrical control signals into light signals that travel through the fixture housing, providing a reliable physical medium for communication that is less susceptible to interference than wireless radio frequency systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If existing light fixtures are transformed into smart fixtures, then cost-effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecost-effectivenessVSAvoidfixture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines lighting elements and optical transceivers into integrated modules that can be installed as complete units in existing fixtures. This modular approach reduces the complexity of installation by pre-assembling the communication and lighting components together.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the control system into independent transceiver modules that can be individually installed in each fixture. Each module contains its own photodetector, LED, and control circuitry, allowing for simplified installation and maintenance without requiring system-wide wiring changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 buildings into smart environments with reduced waste and installation costs, providing efficient energy management and control without damaging unique architectural features, suitable for sensitive and complex spaces.

Implementation Method 1

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

at least one optical transceiver engaged to a clock... and at least one photodetector attached thereto

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10111305B2Smart light system
Publication Date: 2018.10.23 DENSE MATRIX LLC
  • US10111305B2 patent drawing
  • US10111305B2 patent drawing
  • US10111305B2 patent drawing

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 location 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.