Solid-State Lighting Fixtures with Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting fixtures like fluorescent tubes and HID lamps have limited options for varying light output and are not energy-efficient, making it difficult to adjust illumination levels and leading to premature aging when turned on and off.
Innovation Solution
The use of solid-state light emitting elements, such as LEDs, in a light fixture with integrated sensors and control systems that allow for adjustable light output based on ambient light, occupancy, and energy load, along with a retrofit kit for existing fixtures, enabling flexible and efficient lighting solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluorescent tubes or HID lamps are used, then stable light output is achieved, but the ability to vary light output is limited and aging occurs when turned on and off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from conventional lamps with fixed operating parameters to LED solid-state devices where key parameters (current, voltage, on-time) can be dynamically adjusted. This enables continuous variation of light output intensity and eliminates aging effects from frequent switching, as LEDs have no filament or gas discharge components that degrade over time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If solid-state LED elements are used, then light output can be readily varied and instant on/off is achieved, but device complexity increases with integrated sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into integrated control systems that combine ambient light sensors, occupancy sensors, and LED driver circuits into a unified fixture assembly. This consolidation manages complexity by combining separate components (sensors, controllers, power supplies) into a single coordinated system rather than separate distributed components.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various operating modes (full on, full off, dimming levels, sensor-responsive control, scheduling) through a single integrated controller that processes multiple sensor inputs and adjusts LED output accordingly, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
3Loss of energy
If multiple LED elements are used to replace fluorescent strips, then energy efficiency is improved, but manufacturing and retrofit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lighting function into modular LED elements that can be separately manufactured and assembled. The fixture is divided into distinct components (LED modules, heat sinks, reflectors, diffusers, control systems) that can be independently produced and then assembled, facilitating both manufacturing efficiency and retrofit installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics in the form of adjustable and reconfigurable fixture designs that can adapt to different installation scenarios. The modular construction allows the same basic fixture design to be configured for various applications (different LED counts, orientations, mounting positions) without requiring completely different manufacturing processes, thus managing complexity while maintaining energy efficiency benefits.
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 solution provides highly adjustable and energy-efficient lighting with extended LED lifespan, instant-on functionality, and the ability to operate in hostile environments, reducing energy consumption and maintaining consistent light levels.
Implementation Method 1
Solid-state light emitting electronic elements, such as, for example, light emitting diodes ('LEDs')
Data Source
AI summary
A high performance, high efficiency solid state electronic lighting device, having a sealed fixture body for use outdoors or in environments requiring IP rated sealed fixtures, uses light emitting diodes for producing light from AC current that operates on an as needed basis dependent upon occupancy, ambient light levels and facility load requirements. The high performance, high efficiency solid state electronic lighting device can also be used to replace the internal workings and reflective surfaces of a standard fluorescent fixture, a high-intensity-discharge (HID) lamp, or other arc-based lamps using light emitting diodes for producing light from AC current that operates on an as needed basis dependent upon occupancy, ambient light levels and facility load requirements.