Networked Lighting Communication Across Long Distances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems are limited to direct visual communication over short distances, lacking the ability to convey messages or emotions over greater distances.
Innovation Solution
Network-connected lighting systems that associate multiple light sources, allowing one light source to alter the operation of another remotely through a server, using input mechanisms like touch-sensitive surfaces and computer processors to control light output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If light sources are used for direct visual communication, then communication is possible over short distances, but communication over long distances is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
A server acts as an intermediary between geographically separated light sources, receiving control signals from one light source and transmitting them to another. This mediator enables long-distance communication by relaying information through a network infrastructure, allowing light sources to influence each other beyond direct line-of-sight limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional spatial communication (line-of-sight visual transmission) to four-dimensional communication by adding temporal and network dimensionality. Light sources are connected through a network infrastructure that operates independently of physical distance, enabling communication across geographic dimensions while maintaining temporal coordination.
2Length of stationary object
If multiple light sources are associated through a network, then long-distance communication is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The server performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a communication relay, a coordination hub, and a data management system. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional platform, the system reduces overall complexity compared to having dedicated infrastructure for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Light sources are equipped with embedded processors and memory that enable them to autonomously process control signals and manage their own operational states. This self-service capability reduces the burden on the network infrastructure, as individual light sources can independently execute commands without requiring constant centralized control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light sources are made remotely controllable, then emotional communication over distance is achieved, but control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses color as a direct emotional expression medium, where different colors represent different emotional states. This intuitive color-based communication system simplifies the control interface, as users can select emotions through color selection rather than complex parameter adjustments, making the system accessible while maintaining emotional expressiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A communicative lighting system may comprise a plurality of network connected light sources. Each light source may possess a unique identifier permitting light sources to be associated with one another. An input received by one light source may alter the light output of that light source as well as other light sources associated with the light source. The light output of a light source may be altered by changing color, brightening or dimming, blinking, adjusting which of a plurality of light emitting diodes are activated, or otherwise modifying the type or amount of light output.