Replaceable Exterior Sensor Module for Luminaire
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Solution Overview
Problem
Outdoor luminaires used as platforms for sensor systems face challenges in expanding sensing capabilities without compromising weatherproofing and mechanical support, especially when needing to replace or upgrade sensors over time.
Innovation Solution
A modular approach is introduced, allowing for the addition of replaceable exterior sensor modules with standard electrical and mechanical interfaces, enabling easy attachment and detachment while maintaining weathertight sealing, and supporting various sensors including temperature, pressure, humidity, and cameras, with options for data processing and wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If outdoor luminaires are used as mounting platforms for sensor systems, then sensing capabilities are expanded, but weatherproofing and mechanical support requirements increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into separate modular sensor modules that can be independently attached to the luminaire. Each module contains its own electronics and sensing elements, allowing the luminaire to maintain its weatherproofing while sensors are externally mounted on the housing surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminaire housing is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate various types of sensor modules. Standardized interfaces and mounting mechanisms allow different sensor types (environmental, optical, acoustic) to be attached to the same luminaire platform.
2Reliability
If sensors are integrated into the luminaire housing, then mechanical support and protection are provided, but replacement and upgrading of sensors becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor modules are designed with dynamic mounting mechanisms that allow for easy attachment and detachment. Magnetic mounts, snap-fit connectors, or threaded interfaces enable sensors to be quickly replaced or upgraded without permanent integration into the luminaire housing.
Solution Approach 2:
Mounting interfaces and connection points are pre-configured on the luminaire housing during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of mounting locations, electrical connections, and mechanical interfaces facilitates future sensor replacement and upgrading without requiring modifications to the luminaire structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electrical power and data interfaces are provided for external sensors, then sensing functionality is enabled, but maintaining weathertight sealing becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical connectors and data interfaces are nested within recessed cavities or sealed compartments in the luminaire housing. These interfaces are accessible from the exterior through sealed openings, allowing electrical power and data transmission while maintaining the overall weatherproofing of the luminaire enclosure.
Solution Approach 2:
Sealed connectors and gaskets act as intermediary elements between the external sensor modules and the internal luminaire electronics. These intermediary components provide both electrical connectivity and environmental sealing, allowing power and data transfer while blocking weather elements.
Data Source
AI summary
The specification and drawings present methodology for modularly expanding sensing capabilities of a luminaire or a luminaire mounted sensing system by adding replaceable exterior sensor module(s) in a desired position in a vicinity of an existing (legacy) luminaire or a luminaire system for both inside and outside applications. For outside applications, this modular expansion may be performed while maintaining weathertight sealing integrity, e.g., waterproofing of the luminaire-sensor system/apparatus including exterior housing, exterior electrical connections, cables and any other exposed components. The embodiments described herein can provide diverse sensor capability and future expansion needs for luminaire mounted sensing systems and for processing sensor signals.