Power line communication method and apparatus using downstream current modulation
US9723695B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 2015 |
| Grant date | Aug 1, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B20/40
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A lighting control system is provided with a communication method utilizing downstream current modulation. A primary controller is electrically coupled to a plurality of lighting devices via a mains power transmission network. Each of the respective lighting devices includes an occupancy sensor and is configured to provide full illumination when occupancy is detected in the associated area. The controller identifies occupancy by an increase in current on the mains lines, directs the other devices to fully illuminate, and activates a timer. Prior to lapsing of the timer, any of the devices may indicate continued occupancy by adjusting an operating current to a respective light source according to a predetermined pattern. Upon identifying the pattern, the controller generates control signals directing each of the other devices to remain fully illuminated, and resets the timer. The predetermined pattern may for example include amplitude modulation, threshold numbers of cycles, or both.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.