Proximity Spotlight Control for Large LED Arrays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Controlling a large LED lighting array is complex, especially when individual LEDs need to be independently turned on or off, as existing systems require numerous switches and user interaction for illumination management.

Innovation Solution

A proximity sensing system using a spotlight control device with a light switch that automatically illuminates a predefined area by detecting the presence of the device, allowing for automatic control of lighting configurations and characteristics without user interaction, using proximity sensors and intelligent light switches that process light control signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a large LED lighting array is controlled with individual switches for each LED or subgroup, then each LED can be independently turned on or off, but the system complexity and number of switches required increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveIndependent control of LEDsVSAvoidNumber of switches
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spotlight control device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a lighting control interface and a proximity sensor. A single device can control entire groups of LEDs rather than individual switches, reducing the total number of control elements while maintaining independent control capability through spatial grouping

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The light switch acts as an intermediary between the proximity sensor and the LED array. It receives proximity detection signals and automatically manages the lighting configuration, eliminating the need for direct user interaction with multiple individual switches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If traditional lighting control systems are used, then manual switching is required for each lighting zone, but user interaction and time for lighting management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveManual switching controlVSAvoidTime for lighting management
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system performs self-service through automatic proximity detection. When the spotlight control device enters the predefined area, the system automatically activates the appropriate LED groups without requiring manual switching operations, saving user time and effort

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-defines lighting areas and configurations in advance. When proximity is detected, the pre-configured lighting groups are automatically activated, eliminating the need for real-time manual control decisions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Extent of automation

If proximity sensing is implemented to automatically illuminate areas, then user interaction is reduced, but the system requires additional sensors and processing capability

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAutomatic illumination controlVSAvoidSensors and processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spotlight control device is designed to serve dual purposes: as a lighting control interface and as a proximity sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sensor systems while achieving automatic illumination control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The proximity sensing capability is merged with the existing spotlight control device rather than being implemented as a separate system. This integration reduces overall system complexity while maintaining automatic control functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2039227B1Device and method for controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device and spotlight control device
Publication Date: 2018.03.21 SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
  • EP2039227B1 patent drawingFigure 1

AI summary

The invention relates to controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device, particularly to controlling a spotlight generated by a lighting system such as a large LED lighting array by means of a spotlight control device. The invention provides a device (10) for controlling a lighting system (12) by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device (14), wherein a predefined area (24) around the spotlight control device (14) is illuminated if a proximity sensor (16) signals presence of the spotlight control device (14) within the predefined area (24). The invention has the main advantage that it allows to control complex lighting systems containing dozens or even thousands of lighting devices such as large LED arrays with one device, the spotlight control device.