Wireless Sensor Lighting Control for Office Layout Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional architectural lighting systems are costly to install due to hardwired sensors, inflexible in adapting to changing office layouts, and often wasteful due to underutilized scheduling capabilities, leading to inefficient energy use.
Innovation Solution
A lighting control system with sensors that can be easily relocated and integrated with user devices, such as computers, to provide real-time illumination adjustments based on user-defined preferences, using a network-connected controller to manage luminaires without dedicated hardwire connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are hardwired to ceiling or wall mount locations, then system reliability is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hardwired connection system with a wireless communication system. Sensors communicate with the controller via wireless signals (such as radio frequency or other wireless protocols) instead of physical electrical wiring, eliminating the need for dedicated conduits and low-voltage wiring while maintaining reliable data transmission for lighting control.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless sensors are designed to be universally applicable in multiple locations and configurations without requiring specialized installation infrastructure. The same sensor can be placed on ceilings, walls, desks, or moved to different locations, providing universal functionality across various office layouts and eliminating the need for location-specific hardwired installations.
2Ease of manufacture
If sensors are fixed to ceiling or wall, then installation cost is reduced, but adaptability to changing office layouts deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting control system transitions from a static, fixed installation to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Wireless sensors can be easily relocated, added, or removed without physical reinstallation or electrical work, allowing the system to adapt dynamically to changing office layouts, cubicle configurations, and workspace requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the lighting control into independent, modular wireless sensor units that can be individually positioned and configured. Each sensor operates as an independent node that can be separately relocated, allowing flexible reconfiguration of the overall system to match changing office layouts without affecting other parts of the installation.
3Ease of operation
If fixed sensors are used, then installation simplicity is improved, but measurement precision of user-area lighting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places sensors in locally optimal positions close to where users actually work and where lighting conditions need to be monitored. Instead of relying on distant ceiling or wall-mounted sensors, the system enables deployment of sensors at desk level, near computer displays, or in other user-proximity locations, providing accurate local measurement of the lighting conditions that directly affect user comfort and productivity.
4Reliability
If central controllers are located in service rooms, then system security is improved, but ease of programming and reconfiguration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to independently program, configure, and adjust lighting parameters without requiring access to centralized controller locations or specialized technical expertise. Wireless sensors and controllers include user-friendly interfaces that allow employees to directly program scheduling events, adjust lighting preferences, and reconfigure the system according to their needs, eliminating the need for facility management intervention.
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 reduces installation costs, improves flexibility in adapting to changing office layouts, and optimizes energy use by ensuring luminaires are only active when needed, enhancing user comfort and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic sensor located proximate to the display, the interface collecting a reading from the electronic sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A controller, method and system, for controlling lighting responsive to ambient lighting conditions are described. In particular, disclosed is illumination system and method for controlling illumination of a workspace near a display. The illumination system includes an illumination controller compares the reading with the user's preference, and sends a command to at least one luminaire to adjust the illumination of the workspace.