Powerline Bridge Interface for Fixture Control Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated lighting and special effects installations for events face challenges in managing control data for numerous fixtures, often requiring extensive cabling and different control protocols, which complicates setup and operation.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing powerline communications to transmit control data over existing powerline networks, allowing fixtures to receive operating parameter settings such as light intensity, orientation, and special effects through a powerline bridge interface that translates and forwards data between different protocols and networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated control cables are used for each fixture, then reliable control data transmission is achieved, but installation complexity and cabling requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines control data transmission with existing power delivery infrastructure by injecting modulated control signals onto power lines. This merges two functions (power delivery and control communication) into a single channel, eliminating the need for separate control cables while maintaining reliable data transmission through the shared medium.
Solution Approach 2:
The power line infrastructure is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both electrical power and control data simultaneously. The system uses power lines for their original power delivery function while also utilizing them as a communication medium for fixture control, thereby universalizing the infrastructure's utility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different control protocols are used for various fixtures, then fixture-specific control requirements are met, but system complexity and protocol compatibility issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protocol translation layer that acts as an intermediary between the central controller and fixtures. This mediator receives control commands, translates them into fixture-specific protocols, and transmits them over the power line, thereby managing protocol diversity without requiring the controller to handle each protocol directly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes communication parameters such as modulation frequency, data rate, and protocol type based on the target fixture's requirements. This parameter adaptation allows a single communication infrastructure to support multiple fixture types with different control protocols.
3Productivity
If extensive cabling is deployed for control data, then all fixtures can be controlled, but setup time and installation effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages the existing power line infrastructure that is already in place and operational. By making the power lines serve dual purposes (power and control), the system eliminates the need for additional installation work, allowing fixtures to be controlled using the existing electrical wiring without requiring new cable deployment.
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 approach reduces the need for dedicated control cables, simplifies setup by using existing powerline infrastructure, and enables efficient communication across various fixtures and protocols, enhancing event setup and operation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The data may be provided by adding a modulated carrier signal to the conductor
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for fixture data over a powerline network. In one aspect, fixture interfaces can receive control data on a powerline network and provide the control data to a fixture on a fixture network.