Wireless Lighting Fixture Zone Assignment via Self-Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sophisticated and networked lighting control systems are complex and time-consuming to install and implement, making them difficult for electrical engineers and contractors, and there is a need for systems that can provide similar features with simplified installation and operation.
Innovation Solution
A lighting control system comprising multiple fixtures with a centralized or distributed processor, equipped with motion sensors, light sensors, wireless transmitters, and receivers, allowing for zone assignment and control through actuation, enabling easy configuration and adjustment via wireless communication, and allowing for manual override and self-calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sophisticated and networked lighting control systems are implemented, then lighting control functionality and features are improved, but installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting control system automatically detects fixtures within wireless range and assigns them to zones without requiring manual configuration. The system performs self-calibration by having each fixture flash in sequence and detecting the light output, automatically creating zone assignments based on spatial relationships. This eliminates the need for electrical engineers and contractors to perform complex manual programming and configuration tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters from requiring manual configuration to automatic detection and assignment. By using wireless communication protocols and light sensing capabilities, the system dynamically determines fixture assignments and zone configurations based on detected light levels and spatial positioning, rather than relying on pre-programmed settings or manual input.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sophisticated and networked lighting control systems are implemented, then lighting control functionality is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automatic configuration actions during the initial power-up sequence. When fixtures are first powered on, they automatically enter a discovery mode where they detect each other via wireless communication and light sensing, pre-establishing zone assignments and network connections before normal operation begins. This eliminates the need for post-installation programming and configuration time.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting control system automatically performs self-calibration and zone assignment without requiring installer intervention. The system detects fixtures, determines their spatial relationships through light sensing, and automatically creates appropriate zone configurations, thereby eliminating the time-consuming manual programming steps that traditionally required skilled technicians.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration steps are required during installation, then system customization is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects fixtures and performs self-calibration without requiring manual configuration steps. Electrical contractors can simply install fixtures and power them on, and the system will automatically detect each fixture's location, establish wireless communications, and assign fixtures to appropriate zones based on spatial relationships, thereby making installation as simple as conventional switched lighting while maintaining full customization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses light sensors to detect the flash output from other fixtures during the automatic discovery process. Each fixture flashes in sequence and other fixtures detect the light intensity and timing to determine their spatial relationships and assign themselves to appropriate zones. This automatic feedback-based configuration eliminates manual steps while preserving system customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixture comprising a light sensor and an actuator for assigning the fixture to at least one zone. A fixture comprising a light source, a motion sensor and a light sensor. A fixture comprising a motion sensor, a light sensor and a wireless transmitter (optionally also a wireless receiver). A fixture configured to detect light brightness values over a time-span, and identify a period of time with smallest average brightness. A fixture configured to dim at a first rate when a motion sensor senses no motion for a designated period of time, and optionally also configured to brighten at a second rate when the motion sensor detects motion. A fixture configured to dim to not less than a designated percentage unless motion is detected during the dimming. A lighting control system, comprising fixtures and an actuator configured to assign fixtures to zones. Also, other lighting control systems and methods.