Remote Photocontrol Programming via RF Intermediary
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems with photocontrols require physical access for programming adjustments, which is cumbersome and difficult, especially when multiple photocontrols need to be modified, as they are often installed in hard-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
A radio frequency (RF) remote control device is used to configure and manage light output of photocontrol devices via a wireless network interface, allowing for point-to-point communication and remote programming of light fixtures, including features like dimming, scheduling, occupancy sensing, and temperature protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical access is required for programming photocontrols, then programming can be performed directly on the device, but it becomes cumbersome and difficult when photocontrols are installed in hard-to-reach locations
Solution Approach 1:
A remote device serves as an intermediary between the user and the photocontrol device. The remote device communicates with the photocontrol via wireless network interface, allowing programming operations to be performed remotely without physical access to the photocontrol installed on light poles or in difficult locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically accessing the photocontrol device with a wireless communication-based system. The remote device uses wireless network interfaces to transmit programming commands and receive configuration data, eliminating the need for physical access to photocontrols mounted on light poles or in hard-to-reach locations.
2Productivity
If multiple photocontrols need to be adjusted, then comprehensive lighting management is achieved, but the time and effort required for manual programming increases
Solution Approach 1:
The remote device provides universal access to multiple photocontrols through wireless communication. A single remote device can communicate with and program multiple photocontrols installed at different locations, eliminating the need to physically access each photocontrol individually and significantly reducing the time required for comprehensive lighting management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If photocontrols are installed atop light poles in hard-to-reach locations, then optimal lighting coverage is achieved, but physical access for programming becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The remote device acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the user and the photocontrol device installed at difficult locations. Through wireless network communication, the remote device enables programming operations without requiring physical access to photocontrols mounted on tall light poles or in hard-to-reach positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical access requirement with a wireless communication system. The remote device uses wireless network interfaces to transmit and receive data with photocontrols installed at elevated or difficult locations, eliminating the need for physical access while maintaining full programming capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various methods for lighting control of a light fixture by a remote device. The remote device receives, via a wireless network interface, an identifier from a photocontrol device that manages light output of the light fixture. The remote device transmits a request to establish a point-to-point communication session directly with the photocontrol device using the wireless network interface. Upon receiving an acknowledgement from the photocontrol device confirming establishment of the communication session, the remote device uses the established communication session for receiving a configuration for the photocontrol device. In response to input received, via a user interface of the remote device, to adjust a dimming schedule for the photocontrol device, the remote device instructs the photocontrol device to modify its configuration based upon the received input.