Multimode Lighting Control via Powerline and RF Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems for controlling outdoor lighting fixtures face challenges due to poor penetration of high-frequency RF signals through barriers like soil and metal, leading to inefficiencies and the need for costly additional wiring.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode communication system that combines lower frequency powerline communication and wireless line of sight communication, using a bidirectional dual-band radio transceiver to effectively control lighting fixtures by selecting the best communication method based on the environment, allowing for bidirectional data exchange and extending communication range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If high-frequency RF signals (2.4 GHz) are used for wireless communication, then communication speed and data rate are improved, but penetration capability through barriers (soil, metal, walls) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different communication modes (wireless RF at different frequencies and powerline communication) based on environmental conditions and signal quality. The controller adjusts the communication method in real-time to maintain reliable connection, applying the dynamics principle by making the system adaptable rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes communication parameters by using different frequency bands (2.4 GHz for line-of-sight, lower frequencies for penetration) and different communication mediums (wireless vs. powerline). This parameter change allows the system to optimize for either speed or penetration capability depending on the situation.
2Reliability
If lower frequency signals (900 MHz) are used for wireless communication, then penetration capability through barriers is improved, but communication reliability in cluttered environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between 900 MHz wireless mode and powerline communication mode based on detected signal quality and environmental conditions. When clutter is detected, the system switches to powerline communication to avoid information loss, applying dynamic adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses powerline communication as an intermediary medium to bypass wireless clutter issues. Instead of continuing to struggle with wireless communication in cluttered environments, it switches to using the power lines as an alternative communication pathway.
3Reliability
If powerline communication systems are used to penetrate barriers, then communication through obstacles is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes the existing power lines serve a dual function: both power delivery and data communication. By injecting communication signals onto the power lines, the system uses infrastructure already present in the environment, avoiding the need for separate communication wiring and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing power line infrastructure to provide communication services without requiring additional dedicated communication infrastructure. The power lines serve themselves double duty, eliminating the need for separate communication cabling.
4Reliability
If additional wiring is installed to control underground fixtures, then communication reliability is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses existing power lines as an intermediary communication medium, eliminating the need to install additional communication wiring. The power lines already connect to underground fixtures for power delivery, so they can simultaneously carry communication signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The system makes existing power wiring serve dual purposes: power delivery and data communication. This eliminates the need for separate communication infrastructure and simplifies installation by utilizing already-installed infrastructure.
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
This system enhances the performance and flexibility of controlling lighting fixtures, especially those out of line of sight, without requiring additional hard wiring, and integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure, improving connectivity and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
Traditional wireless radio frequency (RF) control using internet of things (IOT) typically transmits at relatively high frequencies, such as 2.4 GHz
Implementation Method 2
Powerline communication transmits by injecting communication signals onto household or commercial building wiring and/or the electrical power lines
Data Source
AI summary
Dual mode lighting fixture control systems are disclosed that can comprising a wireless device capable of generating control commands and wirelessly transmitting the control commands. A control unit is included that is arranged to receive the control commands and generate wireless fixture control signals and powerline light fixture control signals. A plurality of first light fixtures are included wherein at least some of the first light fixtures are arranged to receive the wireless fixture control signals. A plurality of second light fixtures are coupled to and arranged to receive control signals from a first powerline, wherein the control unit transmits the powerline light fixture control signals on the first powerline to said second light fixtures. In some embodiments, the wireless device can comprise a laptop computer or a cell phone.