Luminaire-Integrated mmWave RF Layout for Lower Wind Load

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of mmWave communication devices with heat sinking and RF components into outdoor luminaires leads to increased size and weight, which affects the structural integrity of light poles and aesthetics, and requires a solution to minimize wind load and weight while maintaining effective heat sinking and protection from environmental factors.

Innovation Solution

The RF communication device is split into functional components and re-configured to optimize heat sinking using the luminaire's metal structure, minimizing the Effective Projected Area and weight, and integrating RF components within the luminaire for protection and reduced size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If mmWave communication devices with heat sinking and RF components are integrated into outdoor luminaires, then communication functionality is achieved, but size and weight increase affecting structural integrity and aesthetics

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionalityVSAvoidweight of RF equipment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The RF communication device is divided into separate functional components (RF section, baseband section, antenna) that can be independently positioned and optimized. This segmentation allows each component to be strategically placed to minimize overall weight and size while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The luminaire structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the RF components, acts as a heat sink for thermal management, and offers weatherproof protection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate housings and mounting structures, reducing overall weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If mmWave communication devices with heat sinking and RF components are integrated into outdoor luminaires, then communication functionality is achieved, but size increases affecting structural integrity and aesthetics

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionalityVSAvoidsize of RF equipment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The RF communication components are nested within the existing luminaire structure. The RF section and baseband section are positioned within the luminaire housing, utilizing available space efficiently without requiring additional external mounting structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The antenna is positioned in a three-dimensional space that optimizes signal radiation patterns while minimizing physical footprint. By carefully positioning the antenna in 3D space relative to other components, the design achieves effective communication coverage without increasing overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If RF components are integrated into luminaires for protection, then environmental protection is achieved, but wind load increases affecting light pole stability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection from environmental factorsVSAvoidwind load

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The RF communication device is merged with the luminaire structure, sharing the same housing and mounting points. This integration ensures that the RF components are protected by the luminaire's existing weatherproof enclosure without requiring additional external structures that would increase wind load.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The luminaire housing is designed with streamlined contours that reduce wind resistance. The enclosure provides weatherproof protection while maintaining an aerodynamic shape that minimizes wind load on the light pole structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 approach reduces the size and weight of RF communication equipment, minimizing the risk of overloading light poles and enhancing aesthetic appeal while maintaining reliable heat dissipation and protection against environmental factors.

Implementation Method 1

optimize heat sinking using the luminaire's metal structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHeat conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS20230408080A1Luminaire with integrated RF communication

Publication Date: 2023.12.21 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV

AI summary

Disclosed is a luminaire comprising a lighting unit, and a wireless RF communication device, wherein at least a part of the lighting unit and at least a part of the wireless RF communication device are in thermal contact with a same heat sink component. Examples of wireless communication devices include wireless mmWave backhaul devices for 5G communication.