RF Sensing Node Assignment for Accurate Presence and Activity Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiofrequency-based sensing systems in connected lighting systems lack optimization of performance due to inadequate consideration of the lighting system's architecture and layout, leading to inefficiencies in sensing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method of controlling a radiofrequency-based sensing system by selecting subsets of nodes based on communication path directions and assigning specific sensing functions to each subset, optimizing the system's performance by distinguishing between different sensing tasks such as presence detection and activity detection, and utilizing nodes for disinfection when appropriate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radiofrequency-based sensing is implemented in connected lighting systems without optimization, then sensing capability is provided, but performance and detection accuracy remain insufficient due to inadequate consideration of system architecture and layout
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connected lighting system into multiple sensing zones, each with dedicated sensing nodes. The system divides the physical space into distinct regions and assigns specific nodes to monitor each zone, enabling optimized sensing performance for each area while managing overall system complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by configuring sensing nodes with specific parameters tailored to their local environment and sensing objectives. Each node is optimized with appropriate transmission power, sensing thresholds, and detection algorithms suited to its specific location and function, thereby improving overall detection accuracy without requiring uniform complex configuration across the entire system.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple sensing nodes are deployed throughout the environment, then sensing coverage is improved, but energy consumption increases due to continuous operation of all nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through a scheduling mechanism that activates sensing nodes in alternating time slots rather than continuously. The controller manages node activation in cycles, allowing nodes to alternate between active sensing mode and low-power sleep mode, thereby maintaining comprehensive sensing coverage while significantly reducing overall energy consumption of the distributed node network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by coordinating node activation schedules so that while individual nodes alternate between active and sleep states, the system as a whole maintains continuous sensing coverage. The scheduling mechanism guarantees that at least one node remains active in each sensing zone at all times, preserving uninterrupted monitoring capability while enabling energy-saving periodic operation for individual nodes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensing functions are distributed across all nodes, then sensing versatility is improved, but interference between nodes increases affecting reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensing functions and node roles into distinct categories managed by the controller. Nodes are assigned specific sensing tasks and operational parameters based on their capabilities and location, with the controller coordinating their activities. This segmentation allows diverse sensing functions to be distributed across nodes while the centralized control prevents interference by managing node activation and signal coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the controller as an intermediary that mediates between distributed sensing nodes. The controller receives data from multiple nodes, coordinates their sensing activities, manages resource allocation, and resolves potential conflicts or interference. This intermediary role enables versatile distributed sensing functions while maintaining system reliability through centralized coordination and interference management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a radiofrequency-based sensing system, wherein the radiofrequency-based system comprises a plurality of nodes each arranged for transmitting and/or receiving radiofrequency signal for radiofrequency-based sensing in an environment; wherein the method comprises: selecting a first set of nodes from the plurality of nodes to form a first subset and a second set of nodes from the plurality of nodes to form a second subset; wherein the selection is based on a direction of communication path from a transmitting node to a receiving node in the plurality of nodes; assigning a first radiofrequency-based sensing function to the first subset and a second radiofrequency-based sensing function or a modified first radiofrequency-based sensing function to the second subset; instructing the first subset to perform the first radiofrequency-based sensing function and the second subset to perform the second radiofrequency-based sensing function or the modified first radiofrequency-based sensing function.