Mounting Rail Waveguide for Long-Range Lighting Network Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Establishing a reliable and cost-effective wireless communication network for indoor lighting systems is challenging due to interference, distance limitations, and the need for radio repeaters, which increase costs and introduce transmission delays, especially in large spaces with high ceilings.
Innovation Solution
A lighting system with a mounting rail assembly that incorporates a passive waveguide to guide wireless signals between node modules, reducing the need for radio repeaters and minimizing electromagnetic interference, while allowing for modular and scalable design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If radio repeaters are used to extend wireless communication distance, then communication range is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electronic radio repeater system with a passive electromagnetic waveguide structure integrated into the mounting rail. The waveguide uses electromagnetic field propagation along the conductive rail to extend communication distance without requiring active electronic components, power supply, or signal processing circuits, thereby eliminating the complexity and cost associated with traditional radio repeaters.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting rail assembly serves as an intermediary structure that carries both electrical power and electromagnetic communication signals. By integrating the waveguide function into the existing mechanical mounting infrastructure, the system extends communication range without adding separate repeater devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining extended reach.
2Length of stationary object
If radio repeaters are deployed to bridge long distances, then communication coverage is improved, but transmission delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the sequential receive-retransmit process of radio repeaters by using a passive waveguide that allows electromagnetic signals to propagate continuously along the mounting rail. This substitution of active electronic relaying with passive electromagnetic guidance reduces transmission delay while extending communication distance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless systems operate in close proximity, then system versatility is improved, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the communication function from the traditional wireless air interface and relocates it to a dedicated electromagnetic waveguide channel within the mounting rail. This separation creates an isolated communication pathway that is shielded from external electromagnetic interference while allowing other wireless systems to operate freely in the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting rail waveguide acts as an intermediary transmission medium that isolates communication signals from the external electromagnetic environment. By channeling signals through this protected pathway, the system maintains versatility for multiple wireless operations while minimizing interference through physical and electromagnetic isolation.
4Reliability
If a mesh network topology is implemented for reliability, then system stability is improved, but hardware cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mounting rail assembly multi-functional by integrating power distribution, mechanical mounting, and electromagnetic communication guidance into a single structure. This universality eliminates the need for separate repeater hardware and complex mesh network infrastructure, reducing installation complexity while maintaining system reliability through the integrated waveguide channel.
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 solution provides a robust, efficient, and cost-effective wireless connection over long distances with reduced power consumption and interference, enabling reliable communication in large spaces without the need for multiple repeaters, thus enhancing the reliability and scalability of the lighting system.
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
Data Source
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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.