Mounting Rail Waveguide for Stable Wireless Lighting Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems face challenges in forming a stable wireless network due to varying furniture arrangements, radio wave reflection, limited transmission range, interference between wireless systems, and high installation and maintenance costs of radio repeaters.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system with a mounting rail assembly that integrates conductors for mains supply and wireless node modules, using a waveguide to transmit radio signals between modules, which is robust, passive, and shields against electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If radio repeaters are used to extend wireless transmission distance, then transmission range is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the active electronic radio repeater system with a passive electromagnetic waveguide structure integrated into the mounting rail. The waveguide transmits radio waves through electromagnetic field confinement and guidance along the rail structure, eliminating the need for active reception and retransmission equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting rail assembly serves as an intermediary structure that carries both electrical conductors for power supply and electromagnetic waveguides for signal transmission. This dual-function intermediary enables both power and communication delivery along the same physical infrastructure.
2Length of stationary object
If radio repeaters are deployed to achieve long-distance wireless communication, then transmission range is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting rail assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical support for luminaires, electrical power distribution through integrated conductors, and electromagnetic signal transmission through waveguide structures. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate radio repeater installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the waveguide structure with the mounting rail assembly into a unified structure. The waveguide is formed using the rail's metallic walls and internal geometry, merging the mechanical support function with the electromagnetic guidance function in a single integrated component.
3Area of stationary object
If wireless networks operate in close proximity, then coverage area is improved, but mutual interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide structure creates localized electromagnetic field confinement along the mounting rail, directing radio waves primarily along the rail structure rather than allowing omnidirectional propagation. This localized field distribution reduces interference with adjacent wireless systems while maintaining coverage along the rail.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive walls of the mounting rail, which could potentially cause signal loss through conductivity, are instead utilized as the waveguide structure that guides and confines electromagnetic waves. The inherent electrical properties of the rail material are converted from potential interference sources into the mechanism for signal transmission.
4Reliability
If mesh network topology is implemented for network stability, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a physical dimension for signal transmission by using the three-dimensional mounting rail structure as a waveguide. Radio waves are guided along the rail structure in a controlled path, providing stable communication without requiring multiple redundant wireless nodes for mesh topology.
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
The system provides a reliable, cost-effective, and interference-free wireless connection over long distances, reducing power consumption and installation costs, while maintaining network stability.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting rail assembly comprises a waveguide configured to guide wireless signals between the first wireless node module and the at least one second wireless node module
Implementation Method 2
The waveguide is robust, passive, and shields against electromagnetic interference
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a lighting system comprising a mounting rail assembly comprising conductors for mains supply integrated into the mounting rail assembly, and mechanical mounting fixtures for lighting modules, lighting control modules and/or other system modules, and a first wireless node module attached to the mounting rail assembly. The mounting rail assembly comprises at least one second wireless node module attached to the mounting rail assembly. The mounting rail assembly comprises a waveguide configured to guide wireless signals between the first wireless node module and the at least one second wireless node module.