Modular Sensor Module for Recessed Luminaire Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems lack a modular and easily installable solution for controlling recessed luminaires that can respond to various environmental conditions, such as motion and light intensity, to adjust light output and energy usage efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An add-on sensor module that is modular, relocatable, and easily integratable with existing recessed luminaire systems, featuring a trim flange for mounting on ceiling grids, clamping mechanisms for secure installation, and electronic connectivity for controlling multiple luminaires, including sensors for motion and light intensity sensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing lighting systems are used without modular sensor integration, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to control light output and energy usage based on environmental conditions is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is designed as a separate, modular unit that can be independently installed and configured. The module contains its own sensor array, processing circuitry, and mounting structure, allowing it to be added to existing lighting systems without redesigning the entire system. This segmentation enables enhanced adaptability while maintaining relative system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed to work with multiple types of recessed luminaires and can detect various environmental parameters (motion, light intensity, temperature). The universal design allows a single module type to control different lighting scenarios, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized components.
2Ease of operation
If a modular sensor module is added to control recessed luminaires, then the ease of installation and integration is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is pre-assembled with all necessary electronic components, wiring connections, and mounting hardware integrated into a single unit. The trim flange is pre-formed with attachment features, and the sensor array is pre-positioned and connected to the circuit board. This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation without requiring complex on-site assembly or configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed to nest within the existing recessed lighting infrastructure. The module fits into the luminaire housing or adjacent ceiling space, utilizing existing mounting points and electrical connections. This nesting approach allows integration without requiring additional ceiling openings or extensive structural modifications.
3Measurement precision
If sensors for motion and light intensity are integrated into the module, then the measurement precision for environmental conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor types (motion sensors, light intensity sensors, and potentially temperature sensors) are integrated into a single modular unit with shared processing circuitry and power supply. The sensors are mounted on the same circuit board and controlled by a single microcontroller, which processes inputs from all sensors to determine lighting control decisions. This merging reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate control systems for each sensor type.
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 flexible and efficient control of light output and energy usage in recessed lighting systems by allowing for easy installation and integration with existing infrastructure, supporting multiple sensors and configurations to adjust lighting based on environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
sensors for motion and light intensity sensing
Data Source
AI summary
A relocatable add-on control sensor module is described which electrically connects and controls at least one recessed light fixture. The add-on control sensor module includes a sensor ethernet socket that may be electrically connected by an ethernet cable to a light fixture ethernet socket of the at least one recessed light fixture so that the add-on control sensor module may control the at least one recessed light fixture.