Sensor Mounting with Laser Alignment for Luminaire Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting fixtures with passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors have limited viewing zones, leading to incomplete activation of lamps when objects approach from angles outside the detection area, and mounting and positioning of sensors on existing luminaires are cumbersome and imprecise.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a sensor holder unit with a laser distance meter for precise positioning of sensors on luminaires, allowing the sensor to rotate and adjust angles for broader coverage, using a sensor mount, lens, and housing, along with a laser meter for accurate alignment and energy-efficient motion detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional PIR sensors are mounted on luminaires, then motion detection is achieved, but the viewing zone is limited causing incomplete lamp activation
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is divided into multiple independent PIR sensors, each covering a specific angular sector. By segmenting the detection field into multiple zones with individual sensors, the system achieves complete 360-degree coverage while maintaining reliable detection in each sector, resolving the contradiction between limited single-sensor viewing zones and the need for comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminaire system is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides illumination through lamps and simultaneously performs motion detection through integrated PIR sensors. This multi-functional design allows the same fixture to both light the area and monitor for motion, eliminating the need for separate detection devices and improving both reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wide-angle motion detectors with infrared mirrors are used, then viewing zone is extended beyond 180 degrees, but mirrors retain dirt or fog reducing sensor operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic infrared mirrors from the detection system and directly positions multiple PIR sensors to achieve wide-angle coverage without reflective surfaces. By extracting the mirrors that cause dirt and fog accumulation, the system maintains extended viewing zones while improving sensor reliability and reducing maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using mirrors to extend the viewing zone in a two-dimensional plane, the system employs multiple sensors arranged in three-dimensional space around the luminaire. This spatial arrangement achieves comprehensive angular coverage through vertical and horizontal positioning of sensors, eliminating the need for mirror surfaces that are prone to contamination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mounting PIR sensors on existing luminaires is performed, then motion detection capability is added, but the process is complicated and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The PIR sensors are merged with the luminaire structure itself, with sensors integrated into the housing and mounting brackets designed to attach directly to existing luminaire components. This combination eliminates separate mounting processes and simplifies installation by making the detection system an inherent part of the lighting fixture.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminaire structure is designed to provide its own mounting infrastructure for the sensors, with integrated brackets and attachment points that utilize the existing luminaire body. This self-service approach allows the luminaire to serve both its illumination function and provide the mounting structure for detection, eliminating the need for external mounting hardware and complex installation procedures.
4Productivity
If PIR sensors are installed without precise positioning, then installation is faster, but proper direction and accuracy cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The sensors are pre-positioned and pre-aligned during manufacturing with precise angular orientations and mounting configurations. This preliminary action ensures that when the luminaire is installed, the sensors are already correctly positioned and directed, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site alignment while maintaining high positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates visual alignment aids such as colored alignment marks or laser indicators that show the correct positioning and angular orientation of sensors during installation. These visual cues enable installers to quickly and accurately position sensors without requiring complex measurement tools, thereby maintaining both installation speed and positioning precision.
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 broader angle detection and precise positioning of sensors, ensuring maximum light output activation from luminaires, optimizing energy savings and reducing maintenance issues related to dirt or fog accumulation.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor lens is configured to at least partially perceive motion generated by an infrared emitting object
Implementation Method 2
The laser meter includes, among others, (i) a laser, to project a focused light path for positioning
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a detection system for a luminaire fixture including a sensor and a laser meter to allow positioning of a sensor for precise positioning toward a viewing area. The sensor includes a sensor mount to attach the detection system to an existing luminaire, a sensor lens to perceive a viewing area, and a sensor housing to protect the sensor lens. The laser meter includes a laser to project a focused light path for positioning, and a laser housing to protect the laser. The sensor lens is positioned with respect to the laser, causing the sensor lens to move with respect to the laser. Also provided is a method for configuring an adjustable detection system for a luminaire.