Modular LED Lighting with Occupancy Sensing and Mesh Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting systems for retrofit and new applications are costly due to wiring and power expenses, rely on low-tech sensors that are not feasible in varying environmental conditions, and do not account for electricity pricing models or energy storage variability.
Innovation Solution
Modular lighting systems with LED or non-LED fixtures, capable of variable lumen output and beam angles, integrated with sensors and network control for intelligent management based on energy demand, alternative energy usage, and user-adjustable parameters, including emergency lighting and RFID integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lighting systems are installed for retrofit applications, then lighting coverage is achieved, but installation cost increases due to wiring and power expenses
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular LED fixtures that can be independently installed and configured. Each fixture operates as a discrete unit with integrated components, allowing flexible installation without extensive wiring infrastructure. The system segments the lighting function into replaceable modules that can be deployed in retrofit applications with minimal disruption to existing structures.
2Ease of operation
If conventional occupancy sensors are used, then basic occupancy detection is achieved, but system reliability decreases in varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting fixture integrates multiple sensor types including occupancy sensors, ambient light sensors, and temperature sensors into a single universal control system. This multi-functional approach allows the system to adapt to varying environmental conditions by combining data from multiple sensors, ensuring reliable operation across diverse settings rather than relying on a single sensor type with limited environmental tolerance.
3Device complexity
If fixed lumen output lighting is used, then simple control is achieved, but energy efficiency decreases under varying demand conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow lumen output to be adjusted in real-time based on occupancy detection, ambient light levels, and time-of-day patterns. The fixture transitions from static to dynamic operation, automatically modulating light output to match actual environmental conditions and occupancy patterns, thereby optimizing energy consumption without requiring complex manual intervention.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular LED fixtures with integrated sensors are deployed, then system flexibility and energy efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components into a single integrated LED fixture unit, including the LED light source, occupancy sensors, ambient light sensors, power management circuitry, and communication interfaces. This merging of functions into one unified module simplifies installation and maintenance while providing the flexibility of modular deployment, as the complete functional unit can be installed as a single replaceable component rather than requiring separate installation of multiple subsystems.
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
These systems optimize energy usage, reduce costs by adjusting lighting according to demand and energy sources, and enhance flexibility and efficiency in diverse environments while integrating with existing infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
A lighting fixture may include a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) light bars mounted within a housing
Data Source
AI summary
In embodiments of the present invention, a method and system is provided for designing improved intelligent, LED-based lighting systems. The LED based lighting systems may include fixtures with one or more of rotatable LED light bars, integrated sensors, onboard intelligence to receive signals from the LED light bars and control the LED light bars, and a mesh network connectivity to other fixtures.