PoE Light Fixture Modulates Identifier for Automated Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting systems lack efficient methods for automatic identification and provisioning of light fixtures, relying on manual processes that are time-consuming and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
Light fixtures are equipped with a modulator that encodes a unique identifier onto the light emitted, which can be detected by user devices and sent to a management entity for network provisioning, utilizing Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology for power and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual identification and provisioning processes are used for light fixtures, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and time efficiency deteriorate due to time-consuming manual processes
Solution Approach 1:
The light fixture autonomously transmits its identifier through modulated light emissions without requiring manual intervention. The system self-provisions by having the fixture emit encoded identifier information that can be automatically detected and processed, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining simplicity in the provisioning workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (physical connection, manual configuration) with optical communication. The identifier is transmitted through light modulation rather than requiring physical contact or manual data entry, substituting a mechanical interaction model with an optical field-based communication model that enables faster, contactless provisioning
2Loss of time
If manual provisioning processes are used, then device complexity is minimized, but loss of time increases due to manual configuration steps
Solution Approach 1:
The identifier is pre-encoded into the light emissions of the fixture before any provisioning action is needed. This preliminary encoding of identification information allows the system to skip time-consuming manual data collection steps, as the identifier is already prepared and actively transmitted through modulated light, enabling immediate detection and provisioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces modulated light as an intermediary carrier that transports the identifier information from the fixture to the detecting device. This optical intermediary enables automatic information transfer without requiring direct physical connection or manual data input, reducing provisioning time while adding a layer of optical communication complexity
3Productivity
If automated light fixture identification is implemented, then productivity improves, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting fixture performs multiple functions: it provides illumination while simultaneously transmitting identification information through modulated light emissions. By making the fixture universal (capable of both lighting and communication), the patent avoids adding separate dedicated identification devices, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the identification transmission function with the existing lighting function. The identifier is encoded into the light emissions that are already being produced for illumination purposes, combining two functions (lighting and identification) into a single integrated process rather than adding separate hardware components
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 method enables rapid and automated identification and provisioning of light fixtures, simplifying the process and enhancing network communication, while allowing for advanced location-based applications and energy management.
Implementation Method 1
A light fixture modulates light emitted by the light fixture with an identifier associated with the light fixture
Implementation Method 2
A user device is positioned to detect light emitted by the light fixture
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are presented herein to enable identification of light fixtures. A light fixture modulates light emitted by the light fixture with an identifier associated with the light fixture. The identifier may be encoded or encrypted before it is modulated. In one example, the identifier is a Universally Unique Identifier (UUID). A user device is positioned to detect light emitted by the light fixture. The user device demodulates the light to obtain the identifier. The identifier, time and location associated with detection of the identifier are sent to a management entity for use in provisioning the light fixture on a network.