Mesh Lighting Control for Hub-Free Multi-Point Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light and sound control systems require complex installations, high voltage usage, and are not scalable or safe for outdoor use, limiting user control and environmental adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A flat, wireless, multi-point synchronizable and scalable lighting/sound control system using a hop topology with a mesh wireless network, low-voltage direct current (DC) power, and a smartphone app for easy setup and operation, eliminating the need for professional installation and avoiding high voltage and water hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional lighting control systems use multiple switches or additional wiring to control multiple lights, then control capability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical wiring-based control systems with a wireless communication system. Each lighting unit communicates with others and with the control device through wireless signals (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless protocols), eliminating the need for complex physical wiring infrastructure while maintaining multi-point control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the lighting control into independent, modular lighting units that can operate autonomously or in coordination. Each unit is a self-contained module with its own control circuitry and wireless communication capabilities, allowing flexible deployment without requiring centralized wiring to each individual light.
2Reliability
If smart lighting systems use a coordinator hub device, then system coordination is improved, but setup complexity and professional installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the coordinator hub component from the system architecture. Instead of requiring a central hub for coordination, each lighting unit directly communicates with the control device and other units through peer-to-peer wireless communication, removing the setup complexity associated with hub configuration and pairing.
Solution Approach 2:
The control functionality that was previously separated into a dedicated hub is merged directly into the control device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) that the user already possesses. The control device runs application software that directly communicates with lighting units, combining coordination and control functions in a single device.
3Power
If conventional lighting systems operate at high voltage, then power delivery is improved, but safety concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter from high voltage (typically 120V or 230V AC) to low voltage (12V DC or similar). This parameter change maintains sufficient power delivery for lighting applications while dramatically improving safety by eliminating the risk of electric shock and fire hazards associated with high voltage systems.
4Stability of the object's composition
If conventional lighting systems are installed permanently, then system stability is improved, but adaptability to different environments decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic, reconfigurable lighting system where units can be easily added, removed, or relocated without permanent installation. The wireless communication and modular design allow the system to adapt to changing environmental requirements and user needs while maintaining stable operation through software-based configuration rather than physical reinstallation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, particularly adaptable for lighting and music presentations, such as for mood, ambience, or party settings includes a flat, wireless broadcast multi-point, synchronizable and scalable operation. The system includes a control system having an electronic circuit which includes a wireless mesh radio, a microcontroller, a wireless short-range radio link unit, a plurality of field-effect transistor (FET) drivers to connect to one or more individual light or sound producing devices or sets thereof, a low voltage DC power supply, an audio input rectifier and filter, and a rotary switch. The system is set up such that a plurality of these control systems are interconnected in a non-hierarchical mesh network, wherein the mesh wireless radio of a given control system has the capacity to signal other nearby control systems.