Occupancy Sensor Override System Using Optical Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing occupancy sensors lack the ability to provide flexible control over lighting fixtures, particularly in scenarios where ambient light levels are high, such as near skylights, and require additional wiring for fixture override control, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
An occupancy sensor with a removable override system that uses a light source to simulate ambient light conditions, allowing for control of the sensor without additional wiring, enabling operation at lower or higher power levels based on ambient light detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional wiring is added for fixture override control, then control flexibility is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring-based override control system with an optical signaling system. A photosensor on the occupancy sensor receives optical signals from a remote control device, eliminating the need for additional wiring while maintaining control flexibility. The remote device transmits control commands through light signals that the photosensor detects and processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a photosensor as an intermediary component that mediates between the remote control device and the occupancy sensor's control circuitry. This intermediary enables wireless optical communication, allowing override control without direct electrical connections while maintaining system reliability.
2Device complexity
If a fixed photosensor threshold is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying ambient light conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic photosensor threshold adjustment mechanism that adapts to varying ambient light conditions. The control circuit automatically adjusts the threshold based on detected ambient light levels, allowing the occupancy sensor to maintain accurate occupancy detection across different lighting environments without requiring manual reconfiguration or complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback through the photosensor that continuously monitors ambient light conditions and adjusts the threshold accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the system to self-adjust to changing environmental conditions while maintaining operational simplicity and reliability.
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 control of lighting fixtures without the need for additional wiring, reducing installation complexity and cost while optimizing energy usage by adjusting power levels based on ambient light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a photosensor for detecting ambient light and for controlling the operation of the occupancy sensor
Implementation Method 2
The override system projects light to a photosensor of the occupancy sensor to signal the occupancy sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An occupancy sensor with a separable override unit can selectively override the operation of the occupancy sensor at designated times and for selected time intervals. The occupancy sensor includes a light sensor to actuate the occupancy sensor and a light assembly when the ambient light is below a predetermined level and to deactivate the occupancy sensor when the ambient light is above a threshold level. The override unit is provided with a light source, such as an LED, to emit light to actuate the light sensor of the occupancy sensor, thereby controlling the occupancy sensor, such as by preventing the occupancy sensor from being actuated. The occupancy sensor includes a cavity for receiving the override unit with the LED aligned with the light sensor: A control unit is operatively connected to one or more override units for selectively controlling the normal operation of the occupancy sensor.