Optical Feedback Lighting Unit for RF-Free Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting control systems require dedicated remote controllers and complex wiring, are prone to obsolescence due to software support issues, and may not be attractive to users concerned about RF signals, especially as they scale in size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A lighting unit that can be turned on by an external signal and maintained using optical feedback, eliminating the need for software, microprocessors, and wired connections, allowing for control via external light sources or non-light inputs like motion or sound, enabling a flexible and scalable lighting system without complex electronic protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless control with software protocols is used, then remote control functionality is achieved, but device complexity and risk of obsolescence increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic/software-based control systems with an optical control mechanism. A light sensor detects external light signals (from remote controllers or ambient sources) to trigger lighting control, substituting complex RF wireless communication and software protocols with a simple optical detection system. This eliminates microprocessors and software dependency while maintaining remote control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting unit uses ambient light or simple external light sources as control signals, eliminating the need for dedicated powered remote controllers. The system serves itself by utilizing existing light in the environment (sunlight, lamps, or simple LED indicators) as the control medium, removing the requirement for complex two-way communication protocols.
2Ease of operation
If dedicated remote controllers are used, then control functionality is achieved, but device loss, damage, and obsolescence risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical dedicated remote controllers with an optical signal-based control system. Instead of requiring a powered electronic remote device that can be lost or broken, the system accepts control signals in the form of light (which can be generated by simple indicators or ambient sources), eliminating the vulnerability associated with physical remote controllers.
3Ease of operation
If RF signals are used for control, then wireless control is achieved, but user concern about RF signal generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes RF electromagnetic signals with optical signals for wireless control. The light sensor detects visible or near-visible light signals instead of receiving RF transmissions, eliminating RF signal generation and reception while maintaining wireless control capability. This addresses user concerns about RF exposure by using optically-based control instead.
4Area of stationary object
If lighting system size is increased, then coverage area is improved, but wiring complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal optical control signal that can trigger multiple lighting units simultaneously. A single external light signal detected by light sensors in various lighting units enables coordinated control across the entire lighting system without requiring individual wiring connections between units and a central controller, simplifying the wiring infrastructure while scaling to large areas.
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 solution simplifies the lighting control system, reduces material costs, and allows for large-area lighting control with high resolution or ambient settings, enabling flexible and efficient lighting configurations without the need for complex electronics or wiring.
Implementation Method 1
An optical feedback path is provided from the light source (or another light source of an array) to the light sensor arrangement
Data Source
Figure 1~2(b)
Figure 3
Figure 4(a)~4(b)
AI summary
The invention provides a lighting unit, comprising a light source and a light sensor arrangement. An optical feedback path is provided from the light source (or another light source in the same overall system) to the light sensor arrangement. The light source is turned on in response to an external input and is maintained on as a result of the optical feedback path. This lighting unit can be be turned on using an signal such as an optical signal which is received from an external source, and then maintained on using optical feedback from the light source itself. This makes it possible to control a lighting unit area such as a wall using an external device such as a torch or laser pointer, without the need for complex electronic protocols.