Wireless Light Control Modules for Hub-Free Spatial Lighting Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home lighting control systems are often complex and require expert installation, with smart light bulbs being limited by the associated light switch and fixture, leading to inefficiencies and inoperability when the switch is turned off.
Innovation Solution
A lighting control system that uses wireless signal transmission and detection to determine distances and positions of light control modules, allowing for intelligent control and adjustment of lighting settings based on activity and conditions, including the use of tactile displays for user input and wireless communication with other devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a central hub is used for automated lighting control, then automation capability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting control system into independent light control modules, each capable of autonomous operation and wireless communication. Each module contains its own controller, wireless communication unit, and sensors, eliminating the need for a centralized hub while maintaining automation capabilities through distributed intelligence.
Solution Approach 2:
Each light control module is designed to autonomously determine spatial relationships with other modules using wireless signal time-of-flight measurements and angle of arrival detection. The modules self-configure and adapt to environmental conditions without requiring expert installation or centralized coordination.
2Ease of operation
If smart light bulbs are associated with light switches, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates when the switch is turned off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from the light switch and relocates it to the light control module integrated with the lighting fixture. This allows the smart lighting system to operate independently of wall switches, maintaining reliability even when switches are turned off, while preserving ease of operation through wireless control interfaces.
3Measurement precision
If wireless signal transmission is used for spatial determination, then measurement capability is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light control modules perform wireless signal transmission and spatial determination operations periodically rather than continuously. The system activates measurement functions only when needed based on detected environmental conditions or user interactions, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining measurement precision when actively engaged.
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
Enables automated and customizable lighting control without the need for complex hubs or expert installation, allowing for seamless integration with smart devices and efficient power distribution based on user preferences and environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
determining a time of flight of transmission of the first wireless signal and the second wireless signal measured from the launch time to the receipt time
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an intelligent lighting control system. The lighting control system transmits a first wireless signal from a first light control module to a second light control module at a launch time. The first wireless signal is detected at the second light control module. A second wireless signal is transmitted from the second light control module to the first light control module in response to detecting receipt of the first wireless signal. The lighting control system detects receipt of the second wireless signal at the first light control module. A receipt time of the detection of the second wireless signal is recorded. The lighting control system determines a time of flight measured from the launch time to the receipt time.