Light-Triggered Luminaire Wireless Connection Identification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Identifying a specific luminaire for wireless connection is difficult, especially in environments with many luminaires, as existing methods rely on signal strength and visibility, which can lead to incorrect connections.

Innovation Solution

A luminaire equipped with a light sensor and wireless communications interface that activates upon illumination, allowing it to enter an advertising state and transmit messages for easy detection and connection by a control device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the luminaire uses wireless communication interface to enable remote control and data transfer, then the ease of operation and maintenance is improved, but the difficulty of identifying the specific luminaire for connection increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of wireless connectionVSAvoiddifficulty of identifying specific luminaire
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs visual indicators (such as LED lights or color-coded elements) on the luminaire that change color or illuminate to indicate the wireless communication state. When the light sensor detects illumination, the luminaire displays a specific visual signal (e.g., blinking LED) to help users identify which luminaire is ready for connection, thereby resolving the difficulty of identifying the correct device among multiple luminaires.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a light sensor as an intermediary element that detects external illumination and triggers the wireless communication interface to enter advertising mode. This intermediary mechanism bridges the gap between user action (shining light) and system response (wireless connectivity), making the identification and connection process more intuitive and reliable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the wireless communications interface remains active by default to ensure immediate connectivity, then the ease of operation is improved, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimmediate connectivityVSAvoidenergy consumption of wireless interface
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of keeping the wireless communications interface continuously active, the patent implements periodic activation triggered by light sensor detection. When the light sensor detects illumination, the interface enters advertising mode for a predetermined period to allow connections. This periodic activation pattern reduces energy consumption compared to continuous operation while still providing timely connectivity when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares for potential connectivity needs by implementing a quick activation mechanism. When illumination is detected, the wireless interface rapidly transitions to advertising state, providing preliminary readiness for connection. This approach balances immediate responsiveness with energy efficiency by only activating when preliminarily needed rather than maintaining constant readiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 users to quickly and accurately identify and connect to the intended luminaire, reducing the risk of incorrect connections and enhancing the efficiency of data transfer and software updates.

Implementation Method 1

a light sensor; wherein the controller is arranged to control the wireless communications interface such that upon the light sensor being illuminated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12432832B2Apparatus for a luminaire and a method of operating a luminaire
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • US12432832B2 patent drawing
  • US12432832B2 patent drawing
  • US12432832B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Apparatus for a luminaire (1) includes a wireless communications interface (6) for wirelessly communicating with a control device (10), a light sensor (7) and a controller (5). The controller (5) is arranged to control the wireless communications interface (6) such that upon the light sensor (7) being illuminated, the wireless communications interface (6) is able to wirelessly communicate with a control device (10).