Wireless Lighting Control System Using Multi-Master Mesh Networking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting and automation systems are overly complex, costly, and difficult to install and maintain, often requiring centralized control units and extensive rewiring, making them impractical and economically unviable for small-scale applications and retrofits.
Innovation Solution
A multi-master, multi-worker wireless control system that allows devices to dynamically pair and reconfigure without the need for centralized control, using a simple Device Identification Number (DIN) and frequency channel for communication, enabling easy installation and flexibility in device roles, and allowing devices to operate independently or in groups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centralized control system is used to control lighting and automation devices, then control functionality is achieved, but system complexity and installation cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the centralized control unit from the system architecture. Each lighting or automation device is equipped with its own control circuit and communication module, allowing independent operation and wireless communication with other devices. This extraction of centralization eliminates the single point of failure and reduces installation complexity while maintaining control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the control functionality into independent segments distributed across multiple devices. Each device operates autonomously and can communicate with others through wireless mesh networking. This segmentation allows the system to scale flexibly without requiring a centralized controller, reducing both complexity and installation costs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized receiver control units are built into every electrical appliance for control, then device control capability is improved, but manufacturing cost and economic feasibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal control circuits and communication modules that can be integrated into various lighting and automation devices using standard components. Instead of customizing control units for each device, the system uses standardized wireless communication protocols and control logic that work across different device types, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each device is equipped with self-configuration capabilities through automatic device discovery and pairing mechanisms. Devices automatically generate and exchange identification codes, establish wireless connections, and configure control parameters without manual intervention. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex pre-programming during manufacturing, reducing production costs while maintaining device control capability.
3Measurement precision
If RF signals are received by every lighting switch in the group requiring unique device identification numbers, then device identification and control precision are improved, but system complexity and handheld controller complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines device identification and control functions into a unified wireless communication protocol. Instead of using separate identification systems and control channels, the system integrates both functions into a single mesh network communication framework. Devices identify each other through automatic peer-to-peer discovery and exchange control commands through the same wireless interface, reducing controller complexity while maintaining precise device identification.
4Reliability
If extensive rewiring is performed for lighting and automation system installation, then system reliability and connectivity are improved, but installation cost and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with a wireless communication network. Instead of installing physical cables between devices, the system uses wireless mesh networking where devices communicate through radio frequency. This substitution eliminates the need for extensive rewiring during installation, significantly reducing installation time and cost while maintaining reliable connectivity through multi-hop wireless paths.
5Adaptability or versatility
If centralized control systems are designed to be expandable with mobility and compatibility focus, then future expansion capability is improved, but current system cost and complexity increase due to built-in redundancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic mesh network topology where devices can dynamically join and leave the network without requiring pre-configured redundancy. The network automatically reconfigures routing paths and maintains connectivity as devices are added or removed. This dynamic approach provides future expansion capability without requiring built-in redundancy for every possible configuration, reducing current system complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless automation system includes a plurality of devices that forms a hive. Each device includes: a wireless transceiver; having a means to intercommunicate wirelessly with any of the plurality of devices; a microprocessor to process data from at least one input element to generate output for performing actions; a first means for operation without needing to transmit or receive a request, with each device able to operate standalone or connected to at least one third-party device; a second means for initiating a transmission request to other devices, including requests for the other devices to perform an action or a plurality of actions as specified in the transmission request; and a third means for receiving the transmission request from a transmitting device within the plurality of devices and performing at least an action or plurality of actions as requested by the transmitting device.