Light Source Dimming Ratio Modulation for Communication Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for communication using light sources are limited to devices with three color light sources, restricting their applicability to other types of apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A transmitting method that changes the luminance of a light source to encode and transmit signals, using different dimming ratios to manage peak current and reduce deterioration, allowing communication with various apparatuses, including those without three color light sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional light source communication methods are used, then communication can be established with devices having three color light sources, but the method is limited and cannot communicate with various other types of apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a communication system that can work with various types of light sources (single-color LEDs, multi-color LEDs, illuminators) through a unified modulation approach. The transmitting apparatus modulates the light source according to the data signal regardless of the light source type, and the receiving apparatus identifies the light source type and adjusts its reception accordingly, enabling universal communication compatibility without requiring specific three-color light source configurations.
2Reliability
If high peak current is applied to transmit signals, then communication speed and reliability improve, but the light source deteriorates faster and lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using pulse width modulation (PWM) to transmit data signals through periodic on/off switching of the light source at different duty cycles. Instead of using continuous high current, the system uses periodic pulses with varying widths to encode data, which reduces the average current and thermal stress on the light source while maintaining communication reliability through the periodic modulation pattern that can be easily detected by the receiving apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modulating the duty cycle of the light source pulses rather than changing the peak current amplitude. The transmitting apparatus varies the duty cycle parameter to encode different data states, which allows reliable communication through parameter modulation while keeping the peak current within safe limits that do not cause excessive deterioration of the light source.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If dimming ratio is increased to reduce peak current, then light source deterioration is reduced, but signal transmission quality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by having the receiving apparatus identify the type of light source being used and the transmitting apparatus adjusting its modulation strategy accordingly. The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the receiver detects light source characteristics and communicates this information back, allowing the transmitter to optimize its duty cycle and modulation depth to maintain signal transmission quality while operating at reduced peak currents that extend light source lifespan.
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
Enables effective communication between diverse apparatuses by reducing peak current and extending the lifespan of light sources, facilitating long-term communication capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting a signal by changing luminance of a light source
Implementation Method 2
transmitting the signal encoded in a first mode by changing the luminance while causing the light source to emit light
Data Source
AI summary
A transmitting method includes: receiving a dimming ratio which is specified for a light source as a specified dimming ratio (S551); transmitting a signal encoded in a first mode by changing luminance while causing the light source to emit light at the specified dimming ratio when the specified dimming ratio is less than or equal to a first value; and transmitting the signal encoded in a second mode by changing the luminance while causing the light source to emit light at the specified dimming ratio when the specified dimming ratio is greater than the first value (S552). Here, a peak current value of the light source when the specified dimming ratio is greater than the first value and less than or equal to a second value is less than the peak current value of the light source when the specified dimming ratio is the first value.