Modular LED Grow Light Fixtures for Networked Greenhouse Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED lighting systems for indoor plant cultivation lack efficient and cost-effective integration into commercial greenhouses and vertical farms, and do not allow for independent power and automated control.
Innovation Solution
A modular LED lighting system with a flat aluminum PCB, extruded metallic housing, and transparent cover that can be snap-fit together, featuring independently controllable power supplies and network connections for remote control, and includes a local power supply connected via a two-line differential signal communications channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional LED lighting systems are used for indoor plant cultivation, then energy efficiency and photosynthesis optimization are improved, but integration complexity and cost-effectiveness in commercial greenhouses deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular LED units with independent power supplies, allowing individual modules to be integrated or replaced without affecting the entire system. Each module contains its own PCB, LEDs, and power supply, enabling flexible configuration for different greenhouse sizes and plant requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED modules are designed with universal mounting capabilities and standardized connections that allow them to be used across different greenhouse configurations. The modules can accommodate various LED types (red, blue, full spectrum) and are compatible with different power supply voltages, making them adaptable to diverse cultivation environments.
2Loss of energy
If LED lighting systems are integrated into commercial greenhouses, then energy savings and photosynthesis optimization are improved, but ease of installation and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pre-assembled modular units that can be independently installed and configured. Each module is a complete functional unit with integrated LEDs, PCB, and power supply, reducing on-site assembly complexity and enabling faster installation compared to traditional bulk installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The modules are designed to be self-contained with integrated power supplies and control circuits, reducing the need for external infrastructure modifications. The standardized mounting interfaces and connection protocols enable straightforward installation without requiring specialized equipment or extensive technical expertise.
3Ease of manufacture
If modular LED units with independent power supplies are used, then ease of installation and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components (LEDs, PCB, power supply, mounting structure) are merged into a single integrated module unit. This consolidation simplifies installation by reducing the number of separate components to be handled and connected, while the internal architecture maintains modularity for easy replacement and configuration.
4Productivity
If network controllable power units are integrated, then automated control and productivity are improved, but device complexity and cost deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates network-controlled power units that can receive commands and status information through communication protocols. This enables automated control of LED operation based on plant growth stage, environmental conditions, and energy efficiency optimization, while the modular architecture keeps the control system manageable through distributed intelligence.
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 easy, efficient, and cost-effective integration of LED lighting into commercial greenhouses and vertical farms, allowing independent power and automated control of LED units, enhancing plant growth with optimized spectral output.
Implementation Method 1
The LEDs are energy efficient compared to more traditional light sources such as fluorescent, incandescent bulbs or the high-pressure sodium and metal halide lamps often used in commercial crop cultivation. They can also be can be customized to emit specific wavelengths of light-such as red and blue-that are optimal for photosynthesis
Implementation Method 2
They can also be can be customized to emit specific wavelengths of light-such as red and blue-that are optimal for photosynthesis, promoting healthy growth and development
Implementation Method 3
The populated PCB may be situated in a metallic housing... The metallic housing may be made of aluminum... LEDs produce very little heat compared to other grow lights, which means they can be placed closer to plants without risking damage from overheating
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing artificial lighting for indoor plant growth features a grow light fixture with a flat aluminum printed circuit board (PCB) populated with at least two LED variants, such as red (620-660 nm) and blue (450-470 nm), housed in a metallic extrusion with a uniform cross-section. A transparent cover, made of acrylic or polycarbonate with a planar surface and two side lobes, snap-fits to the housing. The fixture includes a local, independently controllable power supply with a network connection—wired (e.g., Ethernet) or wireless (e.g., WiFi, Bluetooth)—enabling remote LED control. This design offers an efficient, cost-effective lighting solution for commercial greenhouses or vertical farms, with independently powered and controlled units.