Auto-Commissioning and Auto-Discovery Control System for Solid State Lighting

Lighting control systems are expensive, complex, and often piecemeal in their approach to how to manage light spaces. We aim to take advantage of the unique voltage and power properties of solid state lighting (SSL) to create a novel lighting power and control system that addresses cost, energy usage, complexity, and comprehensive coverage. For solid state lighting, Redwood Systems sees cost-savings opportunities by centralizing power conversion in an electronic appliance capable of powering or dimming up to 64 light fixtures over low-voltage wiring (e.g. Category 5 cable). Through this centralized power conversion, costs associated with electrical conduit, circuit relays, switches, and light ballasts/drivers will be reduced. With this new network infrastructure in place, we can also more easily install commission and automate the discovery and configuration of per-light motion and ambient light sensors to reduce lighting energy consumption by 50-75% with comprehensive daylighting, occupancy sensing, scheduling, demand response, and user tasking features. In Phase I, basic validation of the power, control, and communications architecture was validated. Successful integration of software and hardware to permit powering and control of commercial office space was demonstrated. In addition, the ability of the system to gather data was shown. Redwood Systems will complete research, design, and development work for global export of the system, improve system electrical efficiency, add the capability to power the system directly from local renewable energy sources, and develop software enhancements to improve monitoring and control of energy usage. Commercial applications and other benefits: The Redwood architecture is designed for commercial offices, schools and universities, healthcare facilities, hotels and restaurants, and government facilities. By combining three typically discrete systems (power, communications, sensors) into one low-voltage networked system, Redwood