VLC Code Transfer Between Light and Driver Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
When replacing a light unit or its components, such as the light module or driver module, the Visual Light Communication (VLC) code stored in the replaced part is often lost, requiring manual reprogramming or updating, which can be inconvenient and error-prone.
Innovation Solution
Both the light module and driver module are equipped with data storage memories that store the VLC code, allowing for its transfer and backup between the modules before replacement, ensuring that the VLC code is retained and can be easily restored in the new module, eliminating the need for manual reprogramming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the VLC code is stored only in one module (light module or driver module), then the storage structure is simple, but the VLC code is lost when that module is replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the storage roles of two memory units: a first memory unit in the light module and a second memory unit in the driver module. Each memory unit serves a specific local function, with the second memory unit acting as a backup storage that receives copies of the VLC code from the first memory unit, thereby enhancing reliability without requiring complete redundancy throughout the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the driver module automatically copy the VLC code from the light module to its own memory unit before any replacement occurs. This advance preparation ensures that the VLC code is preserved in a safe location (the driver module's memory) before the light module might be replaced, preventing data loss without requiring manual intervention at the time of replacement.
2Ease of operation
If manual reprogramming is required after module replacement, then the system structure is simple, but the operation becomes inconvenient and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the driver module to automatically perform the VLC code transfer operation without requiring manual reprogramming by a technician. When the light module is replaced, the driver module autonomously detects the need for code transfer and executes the copying process, making the replacement process more convenient and reducing the time required while minimizing human error.
3Ease of repair
If the VLC code is transferred automatically between modules, then the replacement process is simplified, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning specific, localized functions to each memory unit and the transfer mechanism. The first memory unit in the light module stores the primary VLC code, while the second memory unit in the driver module serves as a dedicated backup storage. The data transfer is performed through a controlled, localized process managed by the driver module, which reads from the light module's memory and writes to its own memory, thereby achieving automated repair ease without requiring complex system-wide changes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of replacing one of a light module and a driver module of a light unit, wherein the light module and the driver module each comprise a data storage memory and wherein a visual light communication, VLC, code has been stored in one of the data storage memory of the light module and the data storage memory of the driver module. The driver module is configured to drive the light module so as to optically emit, by means of a modulation of a light output of the light module, information based on the VLC code. The method comprises: a) reading the VLC code from the one of the data storage memory of the light module and the data storage memory of the driver module; b) transferring the VLC code via a connection between the light module and the driver module; c) storing the transferred VLC code in the other one of the light module and the driver module; d) electing one of the light module and the driver module for replacement; e) replacing the one of the light module and the driver module elected for replacement; and f) transferring the VLC code from the other one of the light module and the driver module to the replaced one of the light module and the driver module and g) storing the transferred VLC code in the data storage memory of the replaced one of the light module and the driver module.