Luminaire Programming Module via Photo-Electric Socket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for programming driver current in luminaires are costly due to the need for extensive technician manpower and hardware modifications, and do not allow for easy adjustment of lumen output or in-field diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A programming module with a processor and memory that interfaces with a luminaire via a photo-electric element socket, enabling remote reprogramming of driver current and lumen output, as well as in-field diagnostics and data logging without requiring dedicated hardware or retrofitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a technician manually reprograms the driver current by opening the luminaire, then the driver current can be reprogrammed, but a significant amount of manpower is needed which makes the operation cost-prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical access (opening the luminaire) with an optical communication system using light pulses through the PE socket. The programming module transmits data optically to reprogram the driver current without physical access, eliminating the need to open the luminaire and significantly reducing technician effort and time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a programming module as an intermediary device that interfaces with the luminaire through the existing PE socket. This module acts as a mediator between the technician's programming commands and the driver circuit, enabling reprogramming without direct manual access to the circuit board and reducing the need for extensive technician intervention.
2Ease of operation
If a proximity device is used to reprogram the driver circuit, then reprogramming can be done without opening the luminaire, but the luminaire must be equipped with hardware that can support such a device which increases the average cost of the luminaire
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repurposes the existing PE (photo-electric) socket, originally designed for photo sensor integration, to serve as a communication interface for programming the driver circuit. By making the PE socket multi-functional (supporting both its original photo sensing function and new programming function), the system enables proximity reprogramming without adding dedicated hardware, thus avoiding increased luminaire cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the luminaire's own existing PE socket infrastructure to provide the programming capability. Instead of requiring external dedicated hardware, the system uses the luminaire's built-in photo-electric interface for bidirectional communication, allowing the luminaire to service its own programming needs without additional components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the luminaire is equipped with dedicated hardware for proximity programming, then reprogramming can be performed without manual access, but this increases the average cost of the luminaire
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the PE socket multi-functional by enabling it to serve both its original purpose (photo sensor interface) and as a programming communication channel. This universality allows the luminaire to gain advanced programming capabilities without adding dedicated hardware, thereby avoiding increased device complexity and cost while maintaining adaptability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual reprogramming is performed, then the driver current can be changed, but extensive technician effort is required which increases operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical reprogramming operations with automated optical communication. The programming module uses light pulses transmitted through the PE socket to automatically reprogram the driver current and adjust lumen output, eliminating the need for technicians to manually access and reprogram the circuit, thereby significantly improving service operation efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service programming where the luminaire can be reprogrammed through its existing PE interface without requiring extensive technician intervention. The programming module handles the communication and reprogramming automatically, allowing technicians to perform adjustments with minimal effort and improving overall productivity.
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 cost-effective, efficient reprogramming of driver current and lumen output, supports in-field diagnostics, and allows for easy adjustment of lumen levels, reducing operational costs and enhancing flexibility in deployment and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a processor configured to perform operations that include measuring input power to the luminaire
Implementation Method 2
changing a driver current set point
Data Source
AI summary
There are provided methods and devices for programming a luminaire. For example, there is provided a programming module for use with a luminaire. The programming module includes a connector configured to provide an interface between the programming module and the luminaire via a photo-electric element (PE) socket of the luminaire. The programming module further includes a memory and a processor. When executing instructions included in the memory, the processor is configured to perform operations that include measuring the input power to the luminaire and changing a driver current set point.