Network-Enabled Light Fixture for Movable Object Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for locating network-enabled devices and individuals within a wireless network face limitations in precision due to overlapping coverage areas and interference between transceivers, which hinder accurate location determination.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a wireless detector within a network-enabled lighting element that sends a message to a remote gateway upon detecting a movable object, utilizing light emitting circuitry, a network transceiver, and a passive wireless receiver or sensor to provide precise location identification through a unique address and reduced detection zone size, allowing for a more accurate and interference-free detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple transceivers are deployed to provide overlapping coverage areas for location determination, then location coverage is improved, but interference between transceivers increases and measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location detection function by integrating wireless detectors into individual lighting elements rather than using centralized transceivers. Each lighting element independently detects movable objects within its own small detection zone, eliminating interference between overlapping coverage areas while maintaining comprehensive location coverage through the distributed array of lighting elements.
2Measurement precision
If wireless detectors are integrated into lighting elements with smaller detection zones, then location precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the wireless detection function with existing lighting elements, combining two separate functions (lighting and detection) into a single integrated device. This approach increases detection precision by placing detectors at distributed locations with small detection zones, while avoiding the complexity of deploying separate detection infrastructure by reusing the existing lighting element framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting elements are designed to serve multiple functions: providing illumination and performing wireless detection of movable objects. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve precise location detection without adding dedicated detection devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity while improving measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If an array of network-enabled lighting elements is deployed for precise location identification, then location accuracy is improved, but manufacturing and deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing infrastructure of lighting elements that are already deployed in spaces, eliminating the need to build separate detection infrastructure. By converting existing lighting elements into network-enabled detection devices, the system achieves high location accuracy through dense distributed coverage without the high costs associated with manufacturing and deploying dedicated detection hardware throughout the space.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method comprises a wireless detector in a lighting element detecting a movable object within a prescribed detection zone of the wireless detector; and the lighting element sending a message identifying detection of the movable object to a remote gateway, allowing the remote gateway to locate the movable object.