U.S. patent application number 10/956449 was filed with the patent office on 2005-08-04 for method and apparatus for the zonal transmission of data using building lighting fixtures.
Invention is credited to Franklin, Philip G..
Application Number | 20050169643 10/956449 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36148630 |
Filed Date | 2005-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050169643 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Franklin, Philip G. |
August 4, 2005 |
Method and apparatus for the zonal transmission of data using
building lighting fixtures
Abstract
This invention relates to the zonal transmission of data by
optical means through the modulation of light from common building
light fixtures, including the light output of fluorescent, mercury
vapor, and other arc or discharge lamps and fixtures; a system for
the reuse of radio frequencies by smart radios, and the accurate
locating and tracking of objects or persons as they move through a
building; by means of creating a communications system which
exploits the existing infrastructure of a building to facilitate
the transmission of relatively secure control and communications
data via creation of a multiplicity of area-limited
interference-free communication zones. The system facilitates the
transmission of wide-area as well as zonal-specific data. The
system facilitates the creation of a database that contains present
location and history location and movement data of persons and
objects as they move through a building.
Inventors: |
Franklin, Philip G.;
(Riverside, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WILLIAM G. LANE
WILLIAM G. LANE, INC., PC
16485 LAGUNA CANYON RD
SUITE 250
IRVINE
CA
92618
US
|
Family ID: |
36148630 |
Appl. No.: |
10/956449 |
Filed: |
October 1, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10956449 |
Oct 1, 2004 |
|
|
|
08977570 |
Nov 25, 1997 |
|
|
|
5929364 |
|
|
|
|
60034176 |
Jan 2, 1997 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
398/187 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04W 88/00 20130101;
H04B 10/1149 20130101; Y02B 20/40 20130101; H04W 24/00 20130101;
Y02B 20/48 20130101; H04B 10/116 20130101; H04B 10/1141 20130101;
H04W 8/22 20130101; H05B 47/175 20200101; H04W 16/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
398/187 |
International
Class: |
H04B 010/04 |
Claims
I claim:
1. Any method or apparatus comprising: controlling means; and arc
lamp or discharge lamp power supply; said controlling means and
power supply designed for living area, working area, building, or
architectural lighting use; and said controlling means and power
supply facilitating the optical transmission of digital or analog
signaling or data, by means of modulating the electrical frequency
and/or phase and/or amplitude of the energy supplied to any one or
more connected arc lamps or discharge lamps.
2. The apparatus or method of claim 1, wherein said transmitted
data is or includes one or more of serial number, location data or
messages, communications or computer or digital device control data
or messages, communications or computer or digital device messaging
data, local radio communications system data or control messages or
other operating data or messaging, public carrier generated radio
communications system data or control messages or other operating
data or messaging, local or wide-area generated paging information,
positioning or location correction factors, messages compatible
with the data format or output of or operations of existing
satellite positioning systems or other positioning systems or
services, any distributed control system or service data, or any
other internally or externally generated or derived data.
3. The apparatus or method of claim 1, wherein said modulation is
one or more of, or a variation of one or more of, frequency
modulation, phase modulation, amplitude modulation, frequency-shift
keying modulation, phase-shift keying modulation, differential
phase-shift keying modulation, quadrature phase-shift keying
modulation, m-ary phase-shift keying modulation, amplitude shift
keying, quadrature amplitude modulation, pulse coded modulation,
differential pulse code modulation, delta modulation,
single-sideband modulation, double-sideband suppressed-carrier
modulation, quadrature-carrier modulation, vestigial sideband
modulation, minimum-shift modulation; or any other modulating
method.
4. The apparatus or method of claim 1, wherein said controlling
means and power supply facilitates the receiving of data or
controlling inputs by means of one or more of a serial data port,
parallel data port, network interface data port, twisted-pair
wireline data port, coaxial data port, radio receiver, radio
transceiver, common carrier radio receiver or transceiver,
power-line carrier receiver, power-line carrier transceiver,
encoded power-line signaling, multiplexed data port, fiber optic
port, optical data port, or infrared data port.
5. The apparatus or method of claim 1, wherein said controlling
means and power supply facilitates the control or operation of one
or more of fluorescent lamps, metal halide lamps, mercury vapor
lamps, sodium vapor lamps, or neon gas lamps, or any combination of
the above arc or discharge lamps, or any arc or discharge lamp in
combination with an incandescent lamp.
6. The apparatus or method of claim 1, further including means for
transmitting or re-transmitting data, by means other than the
optical output of said arc lamp or discharge lamp or lamps;
including but not limited to the transmission of data or analog
signals by means of radio, optical, or acoustic, or ultrasonic
energy.
7. The apparatus or method of claim 1, further including means of
recovering, reconstituting, or generating audio signals; and
further including zero, one, or more means for audio amplification,
and/or audio switching, and/or audio control; and/or audio
transducers.
8. The apparatus or method of claim 1, wherein the intended living
area, working area, building, or architectural lighting use or
application includes, but is not limited to, for use in lighting:
offices, hallways, reception areas, rest rooms, meeting rooms,
rooms using modular or movable office walls, waiting rooms,
escalators and elevators, security areas, manufacturing facilities,
assembly facilities, laboratory rooms or areas, garaging or storage
facilities, warehouse areas or facilities, control rooms, outside
walkways, car ports and car parks, outside parks and play areas,
store malls and other shopping areas or facilities, outside
building walls, outside tree and grass areas, streets, highways or
roadways, airport or harbor areas, shipboard or vessel rooms or
offices or areas, or any indoor or outdoor landscaped areas.
9. The apparatus or method of claim 1, wherein said apparatus
includes sockets or other connecting means for one or more arc
lamps or discharge lamps, and may or may not include means for
focusing, reflecting, or controlling the light output from such
apparatus.
10. The method and apparatus of claim 1, wherein the primary,
secondary, or tertiary light output of arc lamps or discharge lamps
intended for use with such method and apparatus, is in one or more
of the infrared, visible, or ultraviolet spectrums.
11. Any lamp ballast comprising: controlling means; and arc lamp or
discharge lamp power supply; said ballast designed for living area,
working area, building, or architectural lighting use; and said
controlling means and power supply facilitating the optical
transmission of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
modulating the electrical frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude
of the energy supplied to any one or more connected arc lamps or
discharge lamps.
12. Any apparatus or method comprising: power supply for arc lamp
or discharge lamp lighting use; and electronic controlling means;
and means for radio transmission or reception; and/or means for
acoustic or ultrasonic transmission or reception.
Description
[0001] This patent application is a continuation in part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 08/977,570, filed Dec. 23, 1997, and
incorporates the disclosures of Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 60/034,176 filed Dec. 24, 1996, now lapsed, and patent
application Ser. No. 08/673,380 filed Jun. 24, 1996, now
abandoned.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention relates to the transmission of data by the
modulation of the light output of fluorescent and other arc lamps;
including the visible or invisible light output of fluorescent
lamps, neon lamps, mercury vapor lamps, high or low-pressure sodium
lamps, or other high-intensity discharge lamps, or any metal-halide
based lamps.
[0004] This invention also relates to radio communication devices,
more particularly to microprocessor controlled radio communication
devices operating in and around buildings.
[0005] This invention also relates to the art of transmission of
data, covering a limited area, by the modulation of a low-output
radio transmitter, which is powered by the light output of
fluorescent or other lamps; including the visible or invisible
light output of lamps. The transmitter is designed to be small,
inexpensive, and easy to install.
[0006] 2. Description of Prior Art
[0007] Several methods for the transmission and reception of data
messages exists. Many of these have application to offices,
factories, and to buildings or complexes of buildings in general.
For example, low-powered radio transmission can be used to transmit
and receive data messages within a building, or the optical and
infrared spectrum can be used for the transceiving of data.
[0008] However, the use of radio frequencies requires licensing and
coordination for their use. Given the overcrowded radio spectrum in
some areas, said licensing may be nearly impossible. In addition,
while radio facilitates the transmission of data, in general that
data transmission is limited in bandwidth and therefore limited in
the speed of transmission. Additionally, radio energy is hard to
confine, and there it is not practical to limit data transmission
to the confines of any one building or office within a building or
office.
[0009] In contrast, infrared transmission of data has the benefit
of no licensing requirement, higher available bandwidth, and ease
of confinement. However, as infrared energy is not transparent to
walls or other structures, the cost of installation of an
independent building-wide infrared-based transmission system is
extreme. That is, each office and hallway within a building must be
equipped with one or more infrared transmitters in order to provide
coverage to the entire building. Each infrared transmitter will
require lines for it's operating power and a data line for the data
that is to be transmitted, thus requiring a supporting
infrastructure that is both extensive and expensive.
[0010] In addition to wireless optical transmission as examined
above, several examples exist of using modulated light in
conjunction with optical fibers for the transmission of data, but
these do not lend themselves to application to devices that are
portable or mobile within buildings or offices.
[0011] Radio communications devices typically found in the present
day business environment include one and two-way radio pagers;
traditional, SMR (Specialized Mobile Radio) and "trunked" two-way
radios; Cellular and PCS radio-telephones; and a wide-range of
other radio devices.
[0012] These devices can be operated on either privately-owned
radio systems, or on systems owned and operated by an RCC (Radio
Common Carrier) or CCC (Communications Common Carrier) [a "Public
Carrier"]. Public Carrier systems tend to cover large service areas
often including several counties, states, or more. Indeed, some
Public Carriers offer services that cover the entire U.S., Europe,
or the world.
[0013] Today it is common to see pagers sold over the counter at
retail and wholesale stores. While the buyer typically purchases
the pager out-right, the wide-area paging service of the Public
Carrier is typically leased. A user commonly enters into a contract
for services by the Public Carrier on a month-to-month or yearly
basis.
[0014] While Public Carrier systems tend to cover large geographic
areas, private systems, for reasons of licensing and the high
initial cost of equipment, tend to be limited to servicing small
geographic areas.
[0015] Many private systems are designed to provide coverage to
pagers and radios located within just one building or a set of
buildings. That is, many private radio systems are designed to
limit their coverage to radios and radio users who are in or around
a particular high-rise, office building, or factory (an "In-House"
system).
[0016] Since the expense involved in building a private radio
system that covers a large geographic area can exceed hundreds of
thousands of dollars, the services that a Public Carrier provides
are deemed adequate by the vast majority of large-area services
users. In such services, delays of up to five minutes can be
expected given the large areas served, and given that the user is
typically one of thousands or millions who must share the same
radio frequency.
[0017] In contrast, in In-House systems (such as those used for the
day-to-day operations of a factory or high-rise business office,)
such time delays are unacceptable and cannot be tolerated. Short
time-delays of even one minute prohibit Public Carrier-serviced
pagers from being used for many applications such as rapid
notification of incoming phone calls, rapid notification of e-mail
messaging, equipment status messaging, and other sophisticated
In-House communications services.
[0018] Because of technical and practical limitations, most pagers
are utilized for either In-House radio paging service, or for
Public Carrier wide-area paging service; but not both. Indeed,
there are several users who carry two pagers on their person: one
for the In-House system, and one for the wide-area public Carrier
system.
[0019] What is lacking is a pager that can concurrently receive
Public Carrier generated wide-area paging signaling, and locally
generated In-House paging signaling, without interference; and with
minimal use of the over-crowded radio spectrum.
[0020] In a similar manner, cellular telephones lack the ability to
operate on private In-House systems. Because of technical problems
such as co-channel interference, cellular radio-telephones
typically operate only on one of two Public Carrier cellular
systems in any one geographical area.
[0021] Co-channel interference is especially a problem on radio
control-channels utilized for the transmission of cellular system
control data. Any radio interference on the control channel will
cause the system to loose control of the radio device, and
therefore incomplete or improper operation of the transmitting
device may occur. Because private In-House systems will necessarily
operate in close proximity to each other, co-channel interference
and other types of harmful interference will likely occur.
Therefore, private In-House systems thus far have not been granted
licensing by the FCC.
[0022] Public Carrier cellular system fees are prohibitively high
for most private In-House applications. Yet, many Public Carrier
cellular users, when inside their office, would like to use their
radio-telephones as their office telephone.
[0023] What is lacking is a solution that allows cellular
radio-telephones to operate on existing Public Carrier cellular
services, and yet facilitate the radio-telephone's cost effective
use when in range of an In-House private system.
[0024] This invention proposes to combine radio-wave communications
circuitry for Public Carrier wide-area services, and optical-wave
communications circuitry for local In-House services; into one
communications device.
[0025] Several authors have proposed optical, radio, or mixed
optical and radio systems or components that may be of interest,
but fail to teach the art contained in this invention. Observe and
consider the following:
[0026] Several methods for the transmission and reception of data
messages exists. Many of these have application to offices,
factories, and to buildings or complexes of buildings in
general.
[0027] However, the use of radio frequencies generally requires
licensing and coordination for their use. Given the overcrowded
radio spectrum in some areas, said licensing may be nearly
impossible. In addition, while radio facilitates the transmission
of data, in general that data transmission is limited in bandwidth
and therefore limited in the speed of transmission. Additionally,
medium-to-high power radio energy is hard to confine, and therefore
is not practical to limit data transmission to the confines of any
one building or office within a building or office.
[0028] In contrast, low-power radio transmission of data has the
benefit of no licensing requirement, higher available bandwidth,
and ease of confinement. However, in the past, the cost of
installation of an independent building-wide low-power radio-based
transmission system was high. That is, each office and hallway
within a building must be equipped with one or more low-power radio
transmitters in order to provide coverage to the entire building.
Each low-power radio transmitter requires lines for it's operating
power and a data line for the data that is to be transmitted, thus
requiring a supporting infrastructure that is both extensive and
expensive.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0029] This invention proposes to enclose low-power radio
transmitters or optical transmitters into clip-on housings, or
other similar ease of mounting housings. The output from these
transmitters is modulated with control, location, and other data
messages. The modulated light or radio signal is then received by
various types and configurations of devices, and used for the
determination of their location, to control their operational
parameters, or to simply receive data messages.
[0030] The operational power for these transmitters will be derived
from the output of solar cells or solar batteries. These
light-to-electrical energy converting devices will receive their
light energy from the lamp bulb their either clipped to, or
otherwise mounted next to.
[0031] The use of fluorescent lamps and lighting has been
widespread in the consumer and industrial market for many years.
The vast majority of office buildings and high rises make use of
florescent and other lighting by light fluorescent fixtures in a
grid-like fashion throughout lobby areas, private office space,
open planning areas, conference rooms, and hallways. Thus, many
buildings have a zonal lighting X-Y grid system that if properly
utilized represents an important infrastructural system already in
place. I propose to utilize that existing Cartesian infrastructure
for the creation of a zone-based data transmission system for use
within an office or building, and for supplying the energy needed
to power these transmitting devices.
[0032] In addition, I propose to utilize that existing
infrastructure for the determination of the location of users
location within an office or building through the automatic and
transparent optical, medium- power radio or low-power radio
reporting of which radio or optical transmitter is closest to a
person or other target that is being sought. In this way, the
position of a user or target can be determined with greater
accuracy than that afforded by indoor radio triangulation or even
GPS means (if indoor GPS were practical).
[0033] In addition to data transmission and determination of
location, some, but not all, of the anticipated applications of the
method of low-power radio zonal data transmission include their use
in:
[0034] Private in-house cellular systems; and
[0035] Private in-house PCS systems; and
[0036] Private in-house paging systems; and
[0037] Office or building-wide wireless data transmission systems;
and
[0038] PBX systems with automatic and transparent "follow-me"
functions for forwarding phone calls and faxes; and
[0039] Zonal PBX or other Public Address or paging systems; and
[0040] Security and access level badge systems.
OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES
[0041] Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the present
invention are:
[0042] (a) The ability to utilize an existing infrastructure for
the transmission of data messages.
[0043] (b) To facilitate the ability to track and locate a user or
device within a facility, with greater accuracy and lower cost
compared to existing technologies.
[0044] (c) To facilitate a rapidly and easily installed wireless
transmission system, not requiring licensing.
[0045] (d) The reduction of radio frequency congestion by reducing
or eliminating In-House radio transmissions.
[0046] (e) The reduction of radio frequency congestion by reducing
or eliminating public carrier system paging, messaging, or control
channel radio transmissions.
[0047] (f) To facilitate the command, control, and operation, of
radio units in areas of high radio density, by utilizing optical
means, thus resulting in greater efficiency and less interference
and interruption.
[0048] (g) To facilitate delivery of messaging and paging services
by optical means, whilst an otherwise radio device is transmitting
or receiving radio traffic.
[0049] (h) To facilitate additional radio frequency re-use in a
coordinated and controlled radio system.
[0050] (i) To facilitate the transceiving of user status
information, messaging traffic, and other data, on a radio device
that otherwise does not support such services.
[0051] (j) To facilitate greater top-security and privacy
communications, through the utilization of the optical means as a
physically more-limited distribution channel, for the delivery of
changing encryption keys and other security data and signaling, in
various secure communications schemes.
[0052] (k) To facilitate a more transparent operation of PBX
systems and equipment.
[0053] (l) To facilitate the operation of Public Address and
audible paging systems that minimize disturbance to others.
[0054] (m) To facilitate the operation of message paging and
personnel/equipment locating systems on military vessels so as to
not be detectable by enemy electronic surveillance measures.
[0055] (n) To facilitate the operation of message paging and
personnel/equipment locating systems on metal-constructed vessels,
without the interference, reflections, cancellations, echoes, or
lapse in coverage, that a radio-based system would otherwise suffer
from.
[0056] (o) The ability to utilize one communication device for the
concurrent reception of two means of communication; such as the
concurrent utilization of private In-House communications services
and Public Carrier communications services.
[0057] (p) The reduction of radio frequency congestion by reducing
or eliminating In-House system paging, messaging, or control
channel radio transmissions.
[0058] (q) To facilitate the wireless and cordless remote control
and operation of radio devices, or extended radio devices, such as
radio consoles.
[0059] (s) To facilitate an In-House system the ability to track
and locate a radio user within a facility, with greater accuracy
and lower cost compared to existing technologies.
[0060] (t) To facilitate greater top-security and privacy
communications, through the utilization of the optical means as a
physically more-limited distribution channel, for the delivery of
changing encryption keys and other security data and signaling, in
various secure communications schemes.
[0061] (u) To facilitate the command, control, and operation, of
radio units in areas of high radio density, by utilizing low-power
radio or optical transmitting means, thus resulting in greater
efficiency and less interference and interruption to other
users.
[0062] (v) To facilitate delivery of messaging and paging services
by low-power radio or optical means, whilst an otherwise
medium-to-high power radio device is transmitting or receiving
radio traffic.
[0063] (w) To facilitate greater top-security and privacy
communications, through the utilization of the low-power radio or
optical means as a physically more-limited distribution channel,
for the delivery of changing encryption keys and other security
data and signaling, in various secure communications schemes.
[0064] Further objects and advantages of my invention will become
apparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing
description.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0065] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of some possible circuitry for
implementation of my invention.
[0066] FIG. 2A is a graphic representation of the output from a
typical fluorescent tube operated by a circuit similar to that
represented in FIG. 1.
[0067] FIG. 2B illustrates one method of data encoding anticipated
by my invention: Frequency Shift Keying (FSK).
[0068] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the main embodiment of my
invention.
[0069] FIG. 4 diagrams a building floor plan showing a possible
arrangement of lighting luminaries incorporating the invention.
[0070] FIG. 5 illustrates one of many applications of the
invention: application to pagers.
[0071] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an alternate embodiment of the
invention: frequency multiplexed optical transmission.
[0072] FIG. 7 shows a possible configuration and change to the
outside appearance of a typical cellular radio-telephone unit as
suggested by the requirements of my invention; that is, FIG. 1
shows a typical cellular radio-telephone with the addition of an
optically transparent window required for operation of the optical
sensor.
[0073] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of some possible circuitry for the
implementation of my invention in a typical cellular
radio-telephone.
[0074] FIG. 9 shows one of a possible many schematic configurations
of optical receiving circuitry necessary to be added to the
existing circuitry of a typical radio unit as suggested by the
requirements of my invention.
[0075] FIG. 10 shows one of a possible many schematic
configurations of optical transmitting circuitry necessary to be
added to the existing circuitry of a typical radio unit as
suggested by the requirements of my invention.
[0076] FIG. 11 shows a block diagram representation of a possible
configuration of components needed to be added to an existing
cellular radio-telephone to implement my invention, and is
demonstrative of an infrared optics configuration.
[0077] FIG. 12 shows a block diagram representation of a possible
configuration of components needed to be added to an existing
cellular radio-telephone to implement my invention and is
demonstrative of a visual-frequency optical implementation of my
invention, as opposed to an infrared implementation.
[0078] FIG. 13 shows a basic flow-chart diagram that software for
implementation of my invention in the preferred embodiment could
follow.
[0079] FIG. 14 shows a possible configuration and change to the
outside appearance of a typical radio paging unit as suggested by
the requirements of my invention.
[0080] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of the circuitry suggested for
the implementation of my invention in a typical one-way radio
pager.
[0081] FIG. 16A shows the front view of a possible configuration
and change to the outside appearance of a typical basic two-way
radio unit as suggested by the requirements of my invention.
[0082] FIG. 16B shows the top view of a possible configuration and
change to the outside appearance of a typical basic two-way radio
unit as suggested by the requirements of my invention.
[0083] FIG. 17 shows a front view of some additional options
possible and the configurations and changes to the outside
appearance of a typical two-way radio unit as suggested by the
requirements of my invention.
[0084] FIGS. 18A-18F show block diagrams of possible configurations
of both radio transmitters and receivers and optical transmitters
and receivers.
[0085] FIGS. 19A-19D show additional block diagrams of possible
configurations of both radio transmitters and receivers and optical
transmitters and receivers.
[0086] FIG. 20 is a block diagram of the main embodiment of my
invention.
[0087] FIG. 21 is a block diagram of an alternat embodiment of my
invention, using an optical transmitter.
[0088] FIG. 22A is a end-view of a possible housing of the main
embodiment of my invention.
[0089] FIG. 22B is a top-view of a possible housing of the main
embodiment of my invention.
[0090] FIG. 22C is a side-view of a possible housing of the main
embodiment of my invention.
[0091] FIG. 23 is a block diagram of an alternat embodiment of my
invention, using an optical transmitter and a radio receiver.
[0092] FIG. 24 is a block diagram of an alternat embodiment of my
invention, using a radio transmitter and a radio receiver.
[0093] FIG. 25 is a diagram of a typical office showing fluorescent
lighting locations.
[0094] FIG. 26 is a diagram demonstrating a possible application of
my invention.
LIST OF REFERENCED NUMERALS
[0095] 4 Fluorescent Lamp
[0096] 102 Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply
[0097] 104 Switching Circuit
[0098] 106 Microprocessor Control Circuit
[0099] 108 Transformer
[0100] 110 Heater Winding `A`
[0101] 112 Heater Winding `B`
[0102] 114 Arc Winding
[0103] 150 Lamp and Switching Assembly
[0104] 202 Graph Line
[0105] 252 Raw Binary Data
[0106] 254 Binary Voltage Level
[0107] 256 Lamp Output
[0108] 258 Frequency Series
[0109] 302 Power Line Carrier Transceiver
[0110] 306 Radio Transceiver
[0111] 402 Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11
[0112] 404 Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 12
[0113] 502 Ceiling
[0114] 504 Lamp Assembly 1
[0115] 506 Lamp Assembly 2
[0116] 508 Pager `A`
[0117] 510 Pager `B`
[0118] 512 Pager `C`
[0119] 602 Lamp and Switching Assembly 1
[0120] 602 Lamp and Switching Assembly 2
[0121] 20 Typical Pager and Housing
[0122] 30 Typical Portable Two-Way Radio and Housing
[0123] 32 Visual Display
[0124] 34 Keypad
[0125] 42 Alpha-Numeric Display
[0126] 44 Icon Indicators
[0127] 46 Typical Portable Cellular Radio-Telephone and Housing
Assembly
[0128] 48 Keypad
[0129] 50 Light-Bulb icon Indicator
[0130] 62 Paging Radio Signals
[0131] 64 Antenna
[0132] 66 Radio Receiver
[0133] 68 Receiver Speaker
[0134] 70 Microprocessing and Signal Processing Circuitry
[0135] 72 Keypad
[0136] 74 Display
[0137] 90 Microprocessing, Signal Processing, Modem, and Controller
Circuitry
[0138] 92 Cellular Radio Signals
[0139] 94 Antenna
[0140] 96 Antenna Circuit
[0141] 98 Radio Receiver
[0142] 100 Radio Transmitter
[0143] 116 Transmitter Microphone
[0144] 118 Receiver Speaker
[0145] 120 Alpha-Numeric Display
[0146] 122 Keypad
[0147] 151 Controlling Means
[0148] 152 Radio Transmitter Means
[0149] 154 Radio Receiver Means
[0150] 156 Optical Transmitter Means
[0151] 158 Optical Receiver Means
[0152] 160 Additional Radio Transmitter(s) Means
[0153] 162 Additional Radio Receiver(s) Means
[0154] 164 Additional Optical Transmitter(s) Means
[0155] 166 Additional Optical Receiver(s) Means
[0156] 200 Optical Sensor Window
[0157] 203 Optical Sensor Window
[0158] 204 Optical Sensor Window
[0159] 210 Optical Light-Rays
[0160] 212 Optical Sensor Assembly
[0161] 214 Optical Signal Decoder Circuitry
[0162] 216 Optical Transmitter Buffer Circuitry
[0163] 218 Optical Transmitter LED
[0164] 220 Optical Energy
[0165] 230 Optical Sensor Assembly
[0166] 232 Optical Signal Decoder Circuitry
[0167] 250 Infrared Optical Diode Detector
[0168] 253 Frequency-Selective Filter
[0169] 255 Amplifier
[0170] 257 Limiter
[0171] 259 Logic-Level Output Buffer Amplifier
[0172] 260 Optical Lens
[0173] 262 Optical Photocell
[0174] 264 Dynamic Load
[0175] 266 Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter
[0176] 268 Amplifier
[0177] 270 Limiter
[0178] 272 Logic-Level Output Amplifier
[0179] 274 Optical Curcuits Microprocessor
[0180] 276 Buffered Switch
[0181] 278 Infrared Light Emitting Diodes
[0182] 280 Transmitted Light-Wave Energy
[0183] 300 Integrated Curcuit U1
[0184] 301 Optical Diode Detector D1
[0185] 303 Variable Inductor L1
[0186] 305 Capacitor C1
[0187] 308 Resistor R1
[0188] 350 Optical Receiver-Decoder Circuitry Output
[0189] 401 Logic Gate
[0190] 403 Resistor
[0191] 404 Resistor
[0192] 406 Infrared LED
[0193] 408 Infrared LED
[0194] 410 Infrared LED
[0195] 412 Darlington NPN Transistor
[0196] 516 Flowchart Initialize Block: "Start"
[0197] 518 Flowchart Process Block: "Start Cellular Routines"
[0198] 520 Flowchart Process Block: "Start Optical Routines"
[0199] 522 Flowchart Decision Block: "Optical System Detected?"
[0200] 524 Flowchart Process Block: "Process Optical Data
Frames"
[0201] 526 Flowchart Process Block: "Use Public Cellular System
Only"
[0202] 528 Flowchart Decision Block: "Cooperative Optical
System?"
[0203] 514 Flowchart Process Block: "Use Local System . . . "
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0204] This invention proposes to modulate the light generated by
gas-discharge lamps, such as fluorescent lamps, mercury vapor
lamps, and sodium vapor lamps, commonly found in and around offices
and buildings, with control, location, and other data messages. The
modulated light is then received by various types and
configurations of devices, and used for the determination of their
location, to control their operational parameters, or to simply
receive data messages.
[0205] The use of fluorescent lamps and lighting has been
widespread in the consumer and industrial market for many years.
The vast majority of office buildings and high rises make use of
florescent lighting by installing fluorescent fixtures in a
grid-like fashion throughout lobby areas, private office space,
open planning areas, conference rooms, and hallways. Thus, many
buildings have a quasi-zonal light transmitting X-Y grid system
that if properly utilized represents an important infrastructural
system already in place. I propose to utilize that existing
Cartesian infrastructure for the creation of a zone-based data
transmission system for use within an office or building.
[0206] In addition, I propose to utilize that existing
infrastructure for the determination of the location of users
location within an office or building through the automatic and
transparent radio or optical reporting of which fluorescent fixture
is closest to a person or other target that is being sought. In
this way, the position of a user or target can be determined with
greater accuracy than that afforded by indoor radio triangulation
or even GPS means (if indoor GPS were practical).
[0207] In addition to data transmission and determination of
location, some, but not all, of the anticipated applications of the
method of zonal data transmission by ballast and fluorescent or arc
lamps include their use in:
[0208] Private in-house cellular systems; and
[0209] Private in-house PCS systems; and
[0210] Private in-house paging systems; and
[0211] Office or building-wide wireless data transmission systems;
and
[0212] PBX systems with automatic and transparent "follow-me"
functions for forwarding phone calls and faxes; and
[0213] Zonal PBX or other Public Address or paging systems; and
[0214] Security and access level badge systems; and
[0215] On-board commercial and military vessels for use in a
safe-and-secure (non-radiating) paging and locating system.
[0216] This invention makes strategic use of combining the
strengths and differences between radio-wave and optical-wave
behavior in application to radios and radio systems; facilitating
their concurrent use in both private In-House radio systems and
Public Carrier wide-area radio systems.
[0217] In this invention, radio-wave communication is used as the
primary backbone for wide-area communications, while optical-wave
communication is used as the primary backbone for In-House
communications. Alternatively, in the case of sophisticated
In-House communication applications, radio-wave communication can
be used as the primary backbone for In-House bi-directional voice
and data communication, while optical-wave communication can be
used as the primary backbone for In-House system control
communications; or vice versa.
DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION--MAIN EMBODIMENTS
[0218] Note that part names as used herein are descriptive only,
and should not be taken as limiting their function or purpose. It
is important to note that functional blocks in the figures are
shown for purposes of discussion only, and nothing therein should
be construed to imply their necessary configuration or even
presence for my invention to work. In addition, similar embodiments
based on infrared, visible, or ultra-violet optical communications,
or a combination thereof, or a mix of one spectrum for transmission
and a different spectrum for reception, are anticipated by this
invention.
[0219] The main embodiment of the invention describes an
fluorescent lamp lighting ballast that uses the output of the lamp
or lamps under it's control to transmit data to one or more
receivers. The configuration allows for the transmission of fixed
data messages, such as a serial number, while allowing for the
transmission of data messages that can be modified in the field.
This embodiment, while not the most basic embodiment of my
invention, is never-the-less one of the more useful and lesser
expensive embodiments.
[0220] It is important to note that several wireline or wireless
data exchange techniques exist and can be used with the invention.
The data transfer techniques discussed and illustrated herein are
for purposes of discussion only, and should not be construed to
limit the scope of the invention.
[0221] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the basic circuitry necessary to
implement a basic embodiment of the invention. Rectifier, Filter,
and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102) typically contains a full-wave
diode rectifier and filter that converts the incoming AC mains
power from AC to DC power. The rectified and filtered voltage is
passed out of the Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply
(102) as the high-voltage (150-350 Volt) supply. Also within
Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102) is a
low-voltage circuit that taps some of the high-voltage, regulates
it, and then passes it out as a low-voltage (typically around 5
volts DC) supply.
[0222] The high-voltage supply is passed to Switching Circuit
(104). Switching Circuit (104) is under control of the
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106). When Microprocessor Control
Circuit (106) enables Switching Circuit (104), the high-voltage
output from Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102)
is passed on to the primary windings of Transformer (108).
[0223] Switching Circuit (104) facilitates Microprocessor Control
Circuit (106) controlling the switching rate and waveform of the
voltage supplied to Transformer (108), and hence determines the
output voltage and waveform from the secondary windings of
Transformer (108); namely, Heater Winding `A` (110), Heater Winding
`B` (112), and Arc Winding (114).
[0224] Heater Winding `A` (110), and Heater Winding `B` (112), are
lower voltage windings used to supply the voltages necessary for
the operation of filament heaters (cathodes) of Fluorescent Tube
(4). The higher-voltage output of Arc Winding (114) is coupled to
each of the filament windings so as to place a high-voltage
potential between the cathodes of Fluorescent Tube (4).
[0225] Fluorescent Tube (4) is any fluorescent lamp tube or type,
including straight or curved heated cathode fluorescent bulbs,
compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL), or cold cathode fluorescent bulbs
(CCFL). In the actual laboratory demonstration circuits, the
Fluorescent Tube (4) first used was a F4T5, and later the circuitry
was modified to accommodate two Philips brand F8T5/CW lamps.
[0226] Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) consists of a core
microprocessor circuit, memory circuitry, timing or frequency
source and circuitry, and other auxiliary circuitry. The timing
source and circuitry is used to clock the microprocessor, and
potentially through other circuits, provide the frequencies that
will be used for toggle rates of Switching Circuit (104), and
therefore the toggle rates of the lamp and associated light
output.
[0227] Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) is powered by the
low-voltage output of Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power
Supply (102), and also holds the data to be transmitted within the
memory circuitry. The memory circuitry can consist of Random Access
Memory (RAM) and/or Read-Only Memory (ROM). Both the RAM and ROM
can be of any configuration and of any type. The memory is
programmed at the factory and/or from one or more sources in the
field.
[0228] Lamp and Switching Assembly (150) represents the switching,
transformer, and lamp function blocks as defined herein. That is,
Switching Circuit (104), Transformer (108), and Fluorescent Tube
(4), are within Lamp and Switching Assembly (150). The Lamp and
Switching Assembly (150) function block serves to simplify some of
the remaining discussion by not having to repeat the descriptions
of repeating common function blocks.
[0229] FIG. 2A is a graph of the output from a typical fluorescent
tube operated on a circuit similar to that diagrammed in FIG. 1.
The diagram shows the output from a Philips F8T5/CW fluorescent
tube, operated at a 40 kHz flash rate. Graph Line (202) shows that
while some noise and harmonic frequencies are present, the basic
flash-rate signal is never-the-less evident, and easily recoverable
by filtering and limiting.
[0230] FIG. 2B illustrates one method of data encoding: Frequency
Shift Keying (FSK). FSK is chosen here for ease of application and
data recovery, but any modulation method is applicable. The use of
FSK herein should not be taken as to in any way limit the
modulation method anticipated by the invention.
[0231] For the purposes of this discussion, we will presume that
the microprocessor controls an external timing or frequency circuit
[outside of the microprocessor, but within the Microprocessor
Control Circuit (106) of FIG. 1], that in-turn generates the toggle
frequencies for application to Switching Circuit (104) of FIG. 1.
However, it should also be noted that the invention also
anticipates the microprocessor directly generating the toggle
frequencies without the need for an external timing or frequency
circuit.
[0232] The Raw Binary Data (252) to be transmitted is shown to be
"101001". This binary data is typically translated to a logic-level
voltage shown therein as Binary Voltage Level (254) generated by
the microprocessor. The Binary Voltage Level (254) is then applied
to an timing circuit whereby one of two toggle frequencies are
generated. The two frequencies are arbitrarily chosen to represent
binary 1's and 0's. For our discussion, we will use a toggle
frequency of 50 kHz to represent a binary data "1", and a 40 kHz
frequency to represent a binary data "0".
[0233] The output of the timing circuit, whether 40 kHz or 50 kHz
is applied to Switching Circuit (104) of FIG. 1. The required
Frequency Series (258) for the representation of binary data
"101001" is shown. These series of frequencies are applied to
Switching Circuit (104) of FIG. 1, which in-turn controls the
output of the fluorescent lamp. The output of the fluorescent lamp
is represented as Lamp Output (256).
[0234] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the main embodiment of my
invention. Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102)
performs the same power supply functions as before. Although not
shown, the low voltage output of the Rectifier, Filter, and
Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102) is distributed to the Power Line
Carrier Transceiver (302) circuitry, the Microprocessor Control
Circuit (106) circuitry, and the Radio Transceiver (306)
circuitry.
[0235] Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302) is circuitry that
receives and transmits either data or audio (or both data and
audio) signals by way of a modulated carrier wave superimposed on
the power line connections. The use of any carrier frequency with
any modulation scheme in the invention is possible, although
certain combinations may have limitations that are not
acceptable.
[0236] As a non-limiting example, an Echelon.RTM. PLT-10A Power
Line Transceiver (manufacturer's model number 50080-02) is a
possible choice for use in the Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302)
circuitry, and is compatible with a standard that exists in the
marketplace. The PLT-10A facilitates a 10 kilobits per second
network rate using direct sequence spread-spectrum in the 100 kHz
to 450 kHz spectrum. For the purposes of this discussion, the use
of an Echelon.RTM. PLT-10A Power Line Transceiver would also
facilitate operation of the ballast unit on a LonWorks.RTM.
compatible network which is also a present standard in the
marketplace. [Echelon.RTM. and LonWorks.RTM. are Registered
Trademarks of the Echelon Corporation.]
[0237] Other circuits and variations are possible, including
employing discrete parts to produce FM, PCM, or AM modulation of a
carrier. The bottom-line significance of the Power Line Carrier
Transceiver (302) is that it is a circuit that facilitates
communication via the power line wiring, thus allowing
communications to and from the ballast invention, without requiring
separate communications wiring to be installed to each ballast.
[0238] As before, Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) is powered
by the low-voltage output of Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage
Power Supply (102), and also holds the data to be transmitted
within the memory circuitry. The memory circuitry can consist of
Random Access Memory (RAM) and/or Read-Only Memory (ROM). Both the
RAM and ROM can be of any configuration and of any type.
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) now also receives and
transmits data via Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302).
[0239] Radio Transceiver (306) can receive data or signals from any
radio source, and said data or signals are then sent to
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106). The data can be used to
either program the operation or function of Microprocessor Control
Circuit (106), or enter data that is to be stored and later
transmitted by Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) via the
lighting circuitry, or be transmitted via Power Line Carrier
Transceiver (302), or any other use of the data can be made of by
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106).
[0240] Radio Transceiver (306) can also transmit data or signals to
any radio receiver that is in range. The transmission of said radio
transmitted data or signals is under the control of Microprocessor
Control Circuit (106). The radio transmitted data can be used to
control or send data to remote devices that may or may not have
compatible optical receivers.
[0241] That is, taken together, FIG. 3 defines a ballast assembly
that can transmit and/or receive zonal data by radio means, and not
necessarily rely on optical transmission means or pathways.
[0242] Lamp and Switching Assembly (150) again represents the
switching, transformer, and lamp function blocks as defined before
in FIG. 1. That is, Switching Circuit (104), Transformer (108), and
Fluorescent Tube (4), all of FIG. 1, are within Lamp and Switching
Assembly (150).
[0243] Thus FIG. 3 diagrams a ballast assembly that contains
microprocessor and memory circuitry, that can receive data either
by radio or power line carrier, and can transmit data either by
power line carrier, radio carrier, or by arc lamp output.
[0244] Note that while the primary spectrum anticipated for
application under this invention is optical (visible, infrared, and
ultraviolet); the use of the radio and/or electromagnetic spectrum
emissions of fluorescent and other arc lamps is also anticipated as
a possible carrier of data for use in the invention. That is, the
emissions in the radio spectrum often classified as noise or Radio
Frequency Interference (RFI), and the radiation of other
electromagnetic spectrum signals often classified as noise or
Electro-Magnetic Interference (EFI); are in fact in this invention
anticipated as being useful for some applications, and therefore
are not necessarily considered to be noise.
[0245] FIG. 4 diagrams a building floor plan showing a possible
arrangement of lighting ballasts incorporating the invention.
Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11 (402) and Fluorescent Ballast
Assembly 12 (404) each represents one of the ballast assemblies of
the invention. Among the data messages being transmitted by light
are their serial numbers as "11" for Fluorescent Ballast Assembly
11 (402), and "12" for Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 12 (404).
[0246] FIG. 5 illustrates one of many applications of the
invention. Ceiling (502) represents the ceiling of a typical
office. Lamp Assembly 1 (504) corresponds to Fluorescent Ballast
Assembly 11 (402) of FIG. 4, and Lamp Assembly 2 (506) corresponds
to Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 12 (404) of FIG. 4.
[0247] Each of Lamp Assembly 1 (504) and Lamp Assembly 2 (506) are
assemblies which house the ballasts and fluorescent lamps as
described herein. The ballast of Lamp Assembly 1 (504) is
modulating it's fluorescent lamps to output a serial number of
"11". The ballast of Lamp Assembly 2 (506) is modulating it's
fluorescent lamps to output a serial number of "12".
[0248] Pager A (508), Pager B (510), and Pager C (512), are pagers
that are capable of receiving and decoding the optical output of a
ballast of the invention.
[0249] Note that part names as used herein are descriptive only,
and should not be taken as limiting their function or purpose.
[0250] FIG. 7 shows a possible placement for the required Optical
Sensor Window (200) on a Typical Cellular Radio-Telephone (46) as
suggested by the requirements of my invention. This represents the
main embodiment of my invention.
[0251] The Optical Sensor Window (200) is necessary to let light
pass through the otherwise light-blocking plastic or metal housing
typical of most cellular-based radio-telephones. The Optical Sensor
Window (200) may or may not embody a lens or other light focusing
or directing assembly, whether as an integral part or as a separate
sub-assembly.
[0252] In addition, the Optical Sensor Window (200) may also
include the function of a light filter, filtering out all but the
desired optical spectrum (the infrared spectrum in this example).
Note that such a filter may be an integral part of the material
used for the Optical Sensor Window (200) or may be a separate
sub-assembly to it.
[0253] Icon Indicators (44) are representative graphic symbols that
are typically illuminated or darkened to indicate the
radio-telephone's status. Here a Light-Bulb Icon Indicator (50) has
been added in order to illustrate a possible way to indicate the
status of the optical mode of the radio-telephone. That is, the
Light-Bulb Icon Indicator (50) is illuminated in the detected
presence of a usable In-House optical system, and darkened when no
usable In-House optical system is detected.
[0254] The rest of FIG. 7 should be taken as typical of most
existing cellular-based radio-telephone devices on the market. The
references include a Typical Portable Cellular Radio-Telephone and
Housing Assembly (46), an Alpha-Numeric Display (42), and a Keypad
(48). The Alpha-Numeric Display (42) is used to display useful
information such as dialed or stored telephone numbers, as well as
to display the status and modes of operation of the
radio-telephone. The Keypad (48) is used for both dialing and
controlling the radio-telephone.
[0255] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of one of the possible
configurations of circuitry in the main embodiment of my invention.
Optical Light-rays (210), traveling through the Optical Sensor
Window (200), strikes the Optical Sensor Assembly (212), where it
is converted to electrical signals which are then applied to the
Optical Signal Decoder Circuitry (214).
[0256] The demodulated logic-level output is then passed out of the
Optical Signal Decoder Circuitry (214) to an input port of the
existing radio Microprocessing, Signal Processing, Modem, and
Controller Circuitry (90). The Microprocessing, Signal Processing,
Modem, and Controller Circuitry (90) decodes the received
logic-level voltages and recovers the encoded data.
[0257] Data to be transmitted is sent from an output port of the
radio's Microprocessing, Signal Processing, Modem, and Controller
Circuitry (90) and fed to the Optical Transmitter Buffer Circuitry
(216) where the logic-level input controls output to the Optical
Transmitter LED (218). The output is applied to one or more Optical
Transmitter LED's (218) whereby the electrical power is converted
to Optical Energy (220) which is transmitted to one or more remote
optical receivers.
[0258] The Optical Transmitter LED (218) can be located behind the
Optical Sensor Window (200) or can be located on the radio housing.
If multiple Optical Transmitter LED's (218) are used, they can be
arranged in a group, or they can be distributed about the housing
oriented in different directions of transmission.
[0259] With the exception of references 200 through 220 in FIG. 2,
all other references should be taken as typical of existing
cellular radio-telephone functional blocks, and their functions are
described briefly here as follows:
[0260] Cellular Radio Signals (92) are received at the Antenna (94)
and are routed to Antenna Circuit (96) where filters are used to
separate transmitter generated energy from interfering with the
received radio signals.
[0261] The received radio signals are applied to Radio Receiver
(98), wherein they are demodulated, and both audio-band signals and
data-level signals are outputted. The audio-band signals are gated
and amplified and then passed-on to the Receiver Speaker (118). The
decoded data-level signals are passed-on to the Microprocessing,
Signal Processing, Modem, and Controller Circuitry (90).
[0262] Data originated and converted in the Microprocessing, Signal
Processing, Modem, and Controller Circuitry (90) that is to be
transmitted is sent to the Radio Transmitter (100). In addition,
when appropriate, audio to be transmitted is converted by the
Transmitter Microphone (116) into electrical signals, which are
then passed on to the Radio Transmitter (100).
[0263] The radio frequency energy output of the Radio Transmitter
(100) is sent to the Antenna Circuit (96), wherein it is kept
separated from the received radio signals. The output of the
Antenna Circuit (96) is sent to be radiated by the Antenna (94),
whereby the radio frequency energy is radiated as Cellular Radio
Signals (92).
[0264] Keypad (122) is used to dial the telephone numbers and to
control the phone. It is envisioned that in the case of this
invention, Keypad (122) would also be used for the purpose of
entering status codes and information about the user. In this way,
a user can notify others that he or she is in a meeting and should
not be interrupted, or that the user is at lunch, etc.
[0265] The Alpha-Numeric Display (120) is used to display present
phone statistics, confirmation of dialed telephone numbers,
displaying last number dialed, and displaying other information
typical of existing cellular radio-telephones. It is envisioned
that Alpha-Numeric Display (120) would also be utilized for such
functions as displaying information about present location, present
status, received messages, etc.
[0266] The Receiver Speaker (118) is used to reproduce received
audio signals as well as to produce tones or other signals used for
acknowledgment of user keypad entries, to indicate to the user that
a phone call is incoming, or to otherwise attract the attention of
the user.
[0267] Although typical of existing cellular radio-telephones, FIG.
8 does not show the volume control function which is used to adjust
the Receiver Speaker (118) to a comfortable level, nor does it show
the on-off control function which is used to turn the unit on and
off.
[0268] FIG. 9 is demonstrable of one of several possible schematic
circuits that can be used to add an optical receive function to
existing radio-telephone circuitry. FIG. 9 is representative of a
simple infrared detector and decoder circuitry, and should not be
taken to limit the functionality of any proposed optical receiver
circuit. Indeed, more sophisticated optical schemes are possible,
and some representations of them follow in other FIG.'s. In
addition, FIG. 9 is an optical receiver only, which should not be
taken to limit or give preference to the optical circuits as being
receive only. Optical transmission circuitry is demonstrated in
FIG. 10.
[0269] The circuitry in FIG. 9 decodes infrared data modulated
carrier-wave transmissions. So long as the carrier frequency is
compatible with the acceptance bandwidth of the circuit design, and
the optical frequency is passed by the light filter, the
transmitted data is decoded. If a light filter is used, it is
located anterior to the Optical Diode Detector D1 (301). In this
way, the design of FIG. 9 minimizes interference caused by spurious
optical noise sources such as fluorescent lamps and other
gas-discharge based lighting.
[0270] The Integrated Circuit U1 (300) is a Motorola Semiconductor
part number MC3373 or equivalent integrated circuit. U1 serves as
an analog wide-band high-gain pre-amplifier with detector and
automatic bias leveling circuit. The optical carrier frequency is
centered about the tuned parallel resonant L-C tank circuit
composed of both the Variable Inductor L1 (303) and the Capacitor
C1 (305). In addition, the Variable Inductor L1 (303) primarily
sets the acceptance band-width which varies indirectly as the Q of
Variable Inductor L1 (303).
[0271] The Optical Diode Detector D1 (301) is a Motorola
Semiconductor part number MRD821 or equivalent. The diode has a
Dark Current of typically 3 nA with a Wavelength of Maximum
Sensitivity at 940 nm, and a Spectral Range of about 170 nm, with
-3 dB points at approximately 875 nm and 1045 nm. The Acceptance
Half-Angle from center is approximately .+-.700.
[0272] The output of the Integrated Circuit U1 (300) is of
open-collector design, and therefore Resistor R1 (308) performs the
function of logic-level pull-up. All other components are used to
either adjust bias or perform decoupling or filtering support
functions.
[0273] FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a possible simple
optical transmission circuit. In no case should FIG. 10. serve to
imply limitation as to the level of complexity of the optical
transmission circuitry possible to implement optical transmission
in this invention. Neither should FIGS. 9 and 10, taken together,
be used to imply that optical transmission and reception circuits
could not share common circuitry.
[0274] FIG. 4 demonstrates that optical transmission is inherently
more simple to accomplish than optical reception, and can be as
simple as one or more infrared LED's connected to a logic gate
through a transistor, with said logic gate under control of a
microprocessor or other control circuitry.
[0275] Logic Gate (401) is a dual-input NAND logic gate similar to
a Motorola Semiconductor MC14011 CMOS logic gate or equivalent. The
inputs to Logic Gate (401) can be tied together and then connected
directly to an unused output pin on a microprocessor or any other
logic-level driving source. Alternatively, one input to Logic Gate
(401) can be connected to an unused output pin on a microprocessor
or any other logic-level driving source supplying data signaling,
while the other input is tied to a carrier clocking-source.
[0276] The output of Logic Gate (401) is passed through a current
limiting Resistor (403) and is applied to the base input of a
Darlington NPN-Transistor (412) similar to a Motorola Semiconductor
MPS-A13. The emitter of the Darlington NPN-Transistor (412) is
grounded. The incoming light emitting diode (LED) power source is
current limited by a series Resistor (404) and is passed on to
three series wired Infrared LED's (406, 408, and 410).
[0277] Each of the three Infrared LED's (406, 408, and 410) are
Motorola Semiconductor part number MLED-81 or equivalent. An
MLED-81 Infrared LED (406, 408, or 410) has a typical-to-maximum
Forward Voltage of 1.35 to 1.7 volts at 100 mA Forward Current, and
an Ambient Temperature range of -30.degree. C. to +70.degree. C.
The Peak Wavelength is at 940 nm at a Forward Current of 100 mA,
with a Total Power Output of 16 mW and a Half-Power Angle of
.+-.30.degree..
[0278] The particular use of an MLED-81 Infrared LED (406, 408, or
410) is chosen as it is complimentary to the Infrared photo Optical
Diode Detector D1 (301) used in the schematic of FIG. 9.
[0279] FIG. 11 is a block diagram which is demonstrative of a
suggested alternative design for the optical circuitry of FIG. 8.
References to Optical Light-rays (210) and Optical Sensor Window
(200) are the same as in FIG. 8. The Infrared Optical Diode
Detector (250) in FIG. 11 is part of the Optical Sensor Assembly
(212) of FIG. 8.
[0280] The Frequency-Selective Filter (253) is representative of a
filter circuit that blocks any voltage component generated by the
Optical Light-rays (210) striking the Infrared Optical Diode
Detector (250) that are not within specification. Only those light
energies with carrier frequencies that fit within the passband of
Frequency-Selective Filter (253) are allowed to pass through and on
to the Amplifier (255).
[0281] The Amplifier (255) is used to amplify the amplitude of the
low-level analog, mostly sine-wave signals from the
Frequency-Selective Filter (253), to levels that are compatible
with Limiter (257) that follows.
[0282] The amplified signal received into Limiter (257) is
amplitude-limited in such a way so as to convert the entering
sine-wave signal with varying amplitude, into a square-wave signal
with constant amplitude.
[0283] The output of Limiter (257) is fed to a Logic-Level Output
Buffer Amplifier (259). The Logic-Level Output Buffer Amplifier
(259) is used to amplify the lower-level but limited amplitude of
the received signal to a voltage amplitude that is compatible with
the radio microprocessor (0 to 5 volts nominally). The output of
the Logic-Level Output Buffer Amplifier (259) is fed to an
otherwise unused port of the radio's microprocessor, where the data
contained within said signal is decoded using software
algorithms.
[0284] It should be noted that references 253, 255, 257, and 259 in
FIG. 11, taken together, are contained within the functional
reference block 214 in FIG. 8.
[0285] FIG. 12 like FIG. 11 is a block diagram which is
demonstrative of a suggested alternative design for the optical
circuitry of FIG. 8. The references of Optical Light (210) and
Optical Sensor Window (200) are the same as in FIG. 8. However,
FIG. 12 is demonstrative of optical circuitry designed to utilize
the visible spectrum and not the infrared as in the earlier FIG.'s.
In addition, FIG. 12 demonstrates some optional, more sophisticated
functions that can be contained within the Optical Signal Decoder
Circuitry (214) of FIG. 8.
[0286] As previously mentioned, the Optical Light-Rays (210) and
the Optical Sensor Window (200) are the same as in FIG. 8, however
the Optical Sensor Window (200) would not make use of an infrared
filtering option. Furthermore, the Optical Sensor Assembly (212) of
FIG. 8 now consists of an added Optical Lens (260) besides the new
Optical Photocell (262), replacing the Infrared Optical Diode
Detector (250) in FIG. 11.
[0287] The optional Optical Lens (260) can be used to concentrate
or focus the received Optical Light-rays (210) on to the Optical
Photocell (262) in order to either increase the effective range
that the invention can be used, or to give preference to the
direction from which optical data is received.
[0288] The Optical Photocell (262) facilitates the reception of
light-wave energy and the conversion of said light energy into
electrical energy. The electrical energy contains the signaling
transmitted within the Optical Light-rays (210).
[0289] The optional Dynamic Load (264) is used to prevent clipping
of the received light signals that is possible under certain strong
lighting conditions. The Dynamic Load (264) changes its impedance
in response to overall received light levels so that the final
output of the photocell is near the middle of its output range. It
is important to note that even significantly clipped, and
therefore, distorted optical signals can still be effectively
decoded even without a dynamic load. The purpose of the Dynamic
Load (264) shown here is to simply demonstrate one possible way to
improve the signal-to-noise margins of such signals.
[0290] The output of the Dynamic Load (264) is fed to the
Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter (266). The Adjustable
Frequency-Selective Filter (266) is representative of a filter
circuit that first blocks any direct current (DC) voltage component
generated by the Optical Light-rays (210) striking the Optical
Photocell (262). All remaining signals consist of voltages that
vary with time. Of the remaining time-varying voltages, only those
that fit within the presently selected parameters of the
frequency-selective filter circuitry contained within the
Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter (266) are allowed to pass
through and on to the Amplifier (268).
[0291] Note that the parameters of the frequency selective
circuitry in the Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter (266), are
under control of the local Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274).
In this way, the local Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274) can
selectively command the Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter (266)
to filter one of a number of possible optical carrier frequencies.
This process is similar to that of selectively tuning a radio
receiver to one of several channels.
[0292] The output of the Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter
(266) is passed on to the Amplifier (268). The Amplifier (268) is
used to amplify the amplitude of the low-level analog, mostly
sine-wave signals from the Adjustable Frequency-Selective Filter
(266), to levels that are compatible with Limiter (270) that
follows.
[0293] The amplified signal received into Limiter (270) is
amplitude-limited in such a way so as to convert the entering
sine-wave signal with varying amplitude into a square-wave signal
with constant amplitude.
[0294] The output of Limiter (270) is fed to a Logic-Level Output
Buffer Amplifier (272). The Logic-Level Output Buffer Amplifier
(272) is used to amplify the lower-level but limited amplitude of
the received signal to an amplitude of voltage that is compatible
with the Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274).
[0295] The output of the Logic-Level Output Buffer Amplifier (272)
is fed to the Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274) where the data
contained within said signal is decoded using software algorithms.
The Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274) selectively stores or
forwards the decoded data to the cellular radio-telephone
microprocessing circuitry for use when and as needed. In this way,
the Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274) relieves the cellular
radio-telephone microprocessing circuitry from having to otherwise
constantly monitor and decode the received optical signals.
[0296] Data to be transmitted is fed from an output port of the
Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274) to the input of the optical
transmitter Buffered Switch (276). The Buffered Switch (276)
circuitry could be schematically similar to the circuitry contained
in FIG. 4. That is, it should contain a buffer circuit that allows
the Optical Circuits Microprocessor (274) to control the power to
the Infrared Light Emitting Diodes (278), while being protected
from the full operating current load.
[0297] The optical transmitter's Buffered Switch (276) powers the
three Infrared Light Emitting Diodes (278). Note that this example
uses three Infrared LED's, but any number of LED's can be used.
[0298] The Infrared Light Emitting Diodes (278) emit Transmitted
Light-Wave Energy (280) which is directed towards In-House or other
optical receivers. The Infrared Light Emitting Diodes (278) can be
arranged in a group, or they can be distributed about the housing
oriented in different directions of transmission.
[0299] It is important to note that all functional blocks of FIGS.
8, 11, and 12, are shown for purposes of discussion only, and
nothing therein should be construed to imply their necessary
configuration or even presence for my invention to work. Indeed
several other optical schemes, operating at different wave-lengths,
are possible. Similar embodiments based on infrared, visible, or
ultra-violet optical communications, or a combination thereof, or a
mix of one spectrum for transmission and a different spectrum for
reception, are anticipated by this invention.
[0300] FIG. 13 is a flow chart that is representative of an
over-all-view that a possible implementation of software for the
operation of the main embodiment might follow. The flowchart
consists of 7 blocks.
[0301] In FIG. 13, block 516 is an initialization block and is
marked "Start". The software routine starts here.
[0302] Block 518 represents the start of the cellular radio
initialization routines. It is here where the cellular radio,
signal processing, and digital circuits, work together to determine
how many and which cellular Public Carrier radio systems are within
range of the unit. It is also here where the system identifications
are checked to determine if the unit is within range of the home
system assigned to the unit. For the purposes of this flowchart, it
will be presumed that the cellular radio-telephone is within range
of the assigned home system.
[0303] Block 520 represents the start of the software routine
whereby the microprocessor starts to determine if it is receiving
compatible optical transmissions. For the purposes of this
flowchart, it will be presumed that the microprocessor used to
decode and control the optical circuits is the same microprocessor
that controls the device's radio circuits. However, this need not
be the case as the use of multiple microprocessors is also
possible.
[0304] To clarify the function of block 520 further, the optical
sensor is always receiving light signals. Even if there are no
compatible optical transmitters in the area, the optical sensor
will still receive light signals from sources such as the sun and
light bulbs. If however, the received light signals are modulated
at the correct carrier frequency, then the signals must have been
transmitted by a frequency-compatible optical transmitter.
[0305] Block 522 represents the function of the microprocessing
routine making a determination as to whether an optical system is
present and to branch accordingly. The microprocessor routine
determines the existence of an optical system by detecting the
reception of a carrier-frequency-compatible optical signal that is
formatted properly. That is, in this flowchart example, it is
presumed that the optical signals will be transmitted with data
signal preambles and end with sum-checks that will allow the
microprocessor to synchronize to the data stream, and confirm the
presence of a format that is system-compatible with the device.
[0306] Block 524 represents the processing of received optical data
frames. That is, this flowchart example presumes that optical data
is transmitted in the form of data frames. A data frame can hold
such information as System ID, channel information, paging
messages, and voice channel assignments, etc. In this example, an
optical data frame is presumed to consist of sync bits, followed by
a formatted data string, followed by a checksum.
[0307] Block 524 also represents the gathering and storage of
decoded data frame data into device memory. As each data frame is
received and decoded, the category of data frame is used to
determine where to store the data. For example, if the data frame
is a System ID frame, then the System ID data is stored in the
device's memory for future use.
[0308] Block 528 is a decision block wherein the microprocessor
compares the received Optical System ID to a previously stored list
of optical system ID's of where the device is granted permission to
operate (a "Cooperative System"). If the device's software
determines that it is in range of a Cooperative System, then the
software routine branches to block 514; otherwise, it branches to
block 526.
[0309] Block 514 represents optimal operating conditions of a
device conforming to this embodiment. That is, the device has
access to both a wide-area Public Carrier radio cellular system,
and a private In-House system.
[0310] The device's software will use the In-House system for all
outgoing paging responses and outgoing status messages; and unless
manually overridden by the user, all outgoing phone calls. Both
radio and optical control channel's will be monitored for incoming
phone calls, and the software will respond accordingly.
Additionally, the optical control channel will be monitored for any
incoming paging or messaging.
[0311] To be clear, in this particular example of optical system
operation, the device uses radio channels for all voice
communication. The optical channel(s) is (are) used only for system
control, limited messaging and status functions, and other house
keeping functions.
[0312] Once the device's software has entered the operating mode as
indicated in block 514, the software then returns to block 522 to
determine if conditions have changed.
[0313] Back at block 522, should the device's software not detect
the presence of an optical system, then the software will branch to
block 526. Block 526 indicates that the software will enter a mode
whereby the Public Carrier radio cellular system will be used for
all radio-telephone functions. In-House paging and status functions
will not be available.
[0314] Back at block 528, should the device's software not detect
the optical presence of a Cooperative System, then the software
will branch to block 526. Block 526 indicates that the software
will enter a mode whereby the Public Carrier radio cellular system
will be used for all radio-telephone functions. In-House paging and
status functions will not be available.
[0315] After entering the functional mode indicated by block 526,
the software will return to block 522 in an attempt to establish
the presence of an optical system.
[0316] As in other examples herein, nothing in the flowchart
should, nor should the flowchart itself, be in any way interpreted
as limiting what software routines are possible, or in what format
data is transmitted or received. FIG. 13 serves as only one of
several possible examples of software routines.
[0317] FIGS. 18A through 19D utilize block diagram symbols that
represent common circuitry functions. FIGS. 18A through 19D serve
to demonstrate the wide span of combinations of radio and optical
circuitry that are feasible and anticipated as useful in this
invention. Each of these block diagram symbols are described as
follows:
[0318] The Optical Transmitter Means (156) and the Additional
Optical Transmitter(s) Means (164) Symbols
[0319] The Optical Transmitter Means (156) is a symbol representing
circuitry that can transmit optical energy through free-space or
atmosphere, and can operate anywhere on or near the infrared,
visible, or ultraviolet spectrums or regions of optical
frequencies. The light emitting element or elements of the Optical
Transmitter Means (156) is/are presumed to have unobstructed access
to the free-space or the atmosphere through the housing of any
apparatus that it serves. An apparatus or device may make the use
of none, one, or more, optical transmitters.
[0320] Note that the Optical Transmitter Means (156) may have more
than one light emitting element and/or assembly; and if so, not all
light emitting elements and/or assemblies must be oriented in the
same direction; nor must they utilize the same optical frequency.
Indeed, it is recognized that a useful gain in reliability and ease
of operation will be realized should multiple light emitting
elements and/or assemblies be distributed about any hand-held
apparatus or device. In this way, objects that obstruct or
attenuate the emitted light of one emitting element or assembly,
would not so likely obstruct or attenuate the emitted light of a
second; and so forth.
[0321] Even though the Optical Transmitter Means (156) may have
more than one light emitting element or assembly, it and all the
light emitting elements and/or assemblies, and any and all focusing
or diffusing elements, are never-the-less represented by the one
symbol.
[0322] Focusing elements include such items as convex or compounded
lenses used to focus the light to a narrower beam than the light
emitting element otherwise emits. Diffusing elements include such
items as concave or compounded lenses that spread the emitted light
beam. Diffusing elements also include certain materials such as
translucent plastics, and materials comprised of optical
diffraction grating, which also causes the beam of the light
emitting element to spread or change direction.
[0323] Optical Transmitter Means (156) represents the first optical
transmitter in any device. The Additional Optical Transmitter(s)
Means (164), represents one or more additional optical transmitters
in any apparatus or device. Said additional optical transmitters
tend to operate at different optical frequencies from the first
Optical Transmitter Means (156), but such operation at different
optical frequencies is not necessary.
[0324] The Optical Receiver Means (158) and the Additional Optical
Receiver(s) Means (166) Symbols
[0325] The Optical Receiver Means (158) is a symbol representing
circuitry that can receive optical energy that was sent through
free-space or atmosphere, and can operate anywhere on or near the
infrared, visible, or ultraviolet spectrums or regions of optical
frequencies. The light detector or detectors of the Optical
Receiver Means (158) is/are presumed to have unobstructed access to
the free-space or atmosphere through the housing of any apparatus
that it serves. An apparatus or device may make the use of none,
one, or more, optical receivers.
[0326] Note that in a similar fashion to the Optical Transmitter
Means (156), the Optical Receiver Means (158) may have more than
one light sensing element and/or assembly, and if so, not all light
sensing elements and/or assemblies must be oriented in the same
direction; nor must they be sensitive to the same optical
frequency.
[0327] Indeed, it is again recognized that a useful gain in
reliability and ease of operation will be realized should multiple
light sensing elements and/or assemblies be distributed about any
hand-held apparatus or device. In this way, objects that obstruct
or attenuate the incoming light of one sensing element or assembly,
would not so likely obstruct or attenuate the incoming light of a
second; and so forth.
[0328] Even though the Optical Receiver Means (158) may have more
than one light sensing element or assembly; it, and all the light
sensing elements and/or assemblies, and any and all focusing or
diffusing elements, are never-the-less represented by the one
symbol.
[0329] Focusing elements include such items as convex or compounded
lenses used to focus the incoming light on to the sensing element.
Diffusing elements include such items as concave or compounded
lenses that collect incoming light-rays from wide angles, and focus
said light-rays onto the light sensing element.
[0330] Optical Receiver Means (158) represents the first optical
receiver in any apparatus or device. The Additional Optical
Receiver(s) Means (166), represents one or more additional optical
receivers in any apparatus or device. Said additional optical
receivers tend to operate at different optical frequencies from the
first Optical Receiver Means (158), but such operation at different
optical frequencies is not necessary.
[0331] Optical Transceivers
[0332] Communication devices can utilize both an Optical
Transmitter Means (156) and an Optical Receiver Means (158). Both
the Optical Transmitter Means (156) and the Optical Receiver Means
(158) can independently operate anywhere on or near the infrared,
visible, or ultraviolet spectrums or regions of optical
frequencies. The Optical Transmitter Means (156) and the Optical
Receiver Means (158) can operate in different optical spectrums
from each other, or in the same spectrums but utilizing different
optical frequencies, or in the same spectrums and same optical
frequencies but utilizing different carrier frequencies.
[0333] Note that the combination of both Optical Transmitter Means
(156) and Optical Receiver Means (158) into one assembly or one
housing, with or without support or controlling or other circuitry,
is known herein as an Optical Transceiver (an "Optical
Transceiver").
[0334] The Radio Transmitter Means (152) and the Additional Radio
Transmitter(s) Means (160) Symbols
[0335] The Radio Transmitter Means (152) is a symbol representing
circuitry that can transmit radio energy through free-space or
atmosphere, and can operate at any radio frequency, and use any
form of modulation. These devices can be operated on either
privately-owned radio systems, or on systems owned and operated by
an RCC (Radio Common Carrier) or CCC (Communications Common
Carrier).
[0336] The radio transmitter can make the use of Public Carrier
systems and technology such as traditional two-way radio, SMR
(Specialized Mobile Radio), "trunked" two-way radios, Cellular,
and/or PCS radio, etc.
[0337] An apparatus or device may make the use of none, one, or
more, radio transmitters. Radio Transmitter Means (152) represents
the first radio transmitter in any apparatus or device. The
Additional Radio Transmitter(s) (160), represents the one or more
additional radio transmitters in any apparatus or device. Said
additional radio transmitters are operated at different radio
frequencies from the first.
[0338] The Radio Receiver Means (154) and the Additional Radio
Receiver(s) Means (162) Symbols
[0339] The Radio Receiver Means (154) is a symbol representing
circuitry that can receive radio energy sent through free-space or
atmosphere, operating anywhere on any radio frequency, modulated by
any method. Like the Radio Transmitter Means (152), the Radio
Receiver Means (154) can be operated on either privately-owned
radio systems, or on systems owned and operated by an RCC (Radio
Common Carrier) or CCC (Communications Common Carrier).
[0340] The Radio Receiver Means (154) can make the use of private
or Public Carrier systems and technology such as one or two-way
radio paging, traditional two-way radio, SMR (Specialized Mobile
Radio), "trunked" two-way radios, Cellular, and/or PCS radio,
etc.
[0341] An apparatus or device may make the use of none, one, or
more, optical receivers.
[0342] Radio Receiver Means (154) symbol represents the first radio
receiver in any device. The Additional Radio Receiver(s) (162)
symbol, represents the one or more additional radio receivers in
any apparatus or device. Said additional radio receivers operate at
different radio frequencies from the first Radio Receiver Means
(154).
[0343] Radio Transceivers
[0344] Communications apparatus and devices can utilize both a
Radio Transmitter Means (152) and a Radio Receiver Means (154).
Both the Radio Transmitter Means (152) and the Radio Receiver Means
(154) can independently operate anywhere in the radio spectrum and
utilize any form of modulation. The Radio Transmitter Means (152)
and the Radio Receiver Means (154) can operate on different carrier
frequencies, and may be duplexed.
[0345] Note that the combination of both Radio Transmitter Means
(152) and Radio Receiver Means (154) into one assembly or one
housing, with or without support or controlling or other circuitry,
is known herein as a Radio Transceiver (a "Radio Transceiver").
[0346] The Controlling Means (151) Symbol
[0347] The Controlling Means Symbol (151) represents the support
and controlling circuitry necessary to operate the optical and
radio circuitry as represented by the attached block symbols.
[0348] By way of illustration only, the Controlling Means Symbol
(151) includes, but is not limited to: external and internal power
supplies, charging circuits, batteries, general support circuitry,
microprocessor circuitry, logic circuitry, control circuitry,
control software, control firmware, audio switching and coupling
circuitry, audio filtering circuitry, external radio antenna
duplexors, external radio antenna combiners, external radio antenna
bandpass and/or notch and/or reject filters, external antenna
switching circuitry, external radio antenna multi-couplers,
external radio ferrite isolators, external antennas, switches,
keypads, push-buttons, controls, microphones, speakers, lamps,
lights, light emitting diodes, displays, enunciators, vibrators,
mechanical hardware, knobs, radio and analog connectors, charging
contacts, escutcheons, labels, insignias, graphic symbols, and
housings.
[0349] FIG. 18A shows that the communications device can utilize
both an Optical Transmitter Means (156) and an Optical Receiver
Means (158). FIG. 18A further shows that the communications device
can utilize both a Radio Transmitter Means (152) and a Radio
Receiver Means (154). That is, the communications device can
utilize both an optical transceiver and an radio transceiver. The
Controlling Means (151) represents the required support and
controlling circuitry.
[0350] FIG. 18B shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Receiver Means (158) only, and a Radio Transmitter Means
(152) and a Radio Receiver Means (154). The Controlling Means (151)
represents the required support and controlling circuitry.
[0351] FIG. 18C shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Transmitter Means (156) only, and a Radio Transmitter Means
(152) and a Radio Receiver Means (154) [a radio transceiver]. The
Controlling Means (151) represents the required support and
controlling circuitry.
[0352] FIG. 18D shows that the communications device can utilize
both an Optical Transmitter Means (156) and an Optical Receiver
Means (158) [an optical transceiver]; and a Radio Receiver Means
(154) only. The Controlling Means (151) represents the required
support and controlling circuitry.
[0353] FIG. 18E shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Receiver Means (158) only, and a Radio Receiver Means (154)
only. The Controlling Means (151) represents the required support
and controlling circuitry.
[0354] FIG. 18F shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Transmitter Means (156) only, and a Radio Receiver Means
(154) only. The Controlling Means (151) represents the required
support and controlling circuitry.
[0355] FIG. 19A shows that the communications device can utilize
both an Optical Transmitter Means (156) and an Optical Receiver
Means (158) [an optical transceiver]; and a Radio Transmitter Means
(152) only. The Controlling Means (151) represents the required
support and controlling circuitry.
[0356] FIG. 19B shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Receiver Means (158) only, and a Radio Transmitter Means
(152) only. The Controlling Means (151) represents the required
support and controlling circuitry.
[0357] FIG. 19C shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Transmitter Means (156) only, and a Radio Transmitter Means
(152) only. The Controlling Means (151) represents the required
support and controlling circuitry.
[0358] FIG. 19D shows that the communications device can utilize an
Optical Transmitter Means (156) and additional Alternative Optical
Transmitter(s) Means (164), each tuned to the same or different
optical or carrier frequencies. FIG. 19D also shows that the
communications device can utilize an Optical Receiver Means (158)
and additional Alternative Optical Receiver(s) (166), each tuned to
the same or different optical or carrier frequencies.
[0359] Likewise, FIG. 19D also shows that the communications device
can utilize a Radio Transmitter Means (152) and additional
Alternative Radio Transmitter(s) Means (160), each tuned to
different carrier frequencies. Furthermore, FIG. 13D also shows
that the communications device can utilize a Radio Receiver Means
(154) and additional Alternative Radio Receiver(s) Means (162),
each tuned to the same or different carrier frequencies as the
transmitters.
[0360] The use of multiple radio transceivers and optical
transceivers allows for wider band-widths (or speed) of
communication. The use of multiple radio receivers (or
transceivers) also facilitates the concurrent reception of data or
signals generated from multiple independent transmission points.
The use of multiple transmitters (or transceivers) allows for the
transmission of data to a multiple of independent radio
systems.
[0361] Note that part names as used herein are descriptive only,
and should not be taken as limiting their function or purpose. It
is important to note that functional blocks in the figures are
shown for purposes of discussion only, and nothing therein should
be construed to imply their necessary configuration or even
presence for my invention to work. In addition, similar embodiments
based on ultra-sound, very-low-frequency radio, high-frequency
radio, or microwave radio frequency communications, or a
combination thereof, or a mix of radio or optical spectrum for
transmission and the other spectrum for reception; are anticipated
by this invention.
[0362] The use of the word "device" herein, in general, refers to
the entire apparatus and/or method of the invention.
[0363] The main embodiment of the invention describes a low-power
radio transmitter, enclosed in a clip-on housing, designed to
clip-on to a fluorescent lamp tube. The configuration allows for
the transmission of fixed data messages, such as a serial number,
while allowing for the transmission of other data messages that can
be modified in the field. This embodiment, while not the most basic
embodiment of my invention, is never-the-less one of the more
useful and lesser expensive embodiments.
[0364] It is important to note that several wireline or wireless
data exchange techniques exist and can be used with the invention.
The data transfer techniques discussed and illustrated herein are
for purposes of discussion only, and should not be construed to
limit the scope of the invention.
[0365] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the basic circuitry necessary
to implement a basic version of the main embodiment of the
invention. The power supply section consists of Solar Cell (124)
and Rectifier and Storage Cell (126). Solar Cell (124) takes in
light energy that is lamp light or sunlight. The output of Solar
Cell (124) is then coupled to Rectifier and Storage Cell (126)
whereby it is conditioned and at least some of the energy is stored
for later use. Rectifier and Storage Cell (126) may or may not
include a voltage or current regulator or limiting circuit. The
diagrams of Solar Cell (124) and Rectifier and Storage Cell (126)
are common throughout the remaining alternat embodiments, but this
should not be taken as to limit their embodiments as being
identical to each other or without variation.
[0366] Note that Solar Cell (124) may in fact represent more than
one solar cell, and said solar cells do not necessarily need to
aimed in the same direction or towards the same source. Indeed, one
anticipated application of the invention is that a housing and/or
device could be designed to utilize power from a lamp or lighting
source when it's available, while also attempting to use sunlight
or another light energy source when it's available. For example, a
descriptive location transmitting device installed on or near an
outside light fixture at Disneyland could use sunlight for a power
source during the day, and the light generated by a lamp that is
part of the light fixture at night.
[0367] Microprocessor (168) is used as the controlling device in
this embodiment. However, nothing herein should be construed as to
limit the controlling section or circuitry to be limited only to
being microprocessor based. It is anticipated that logic stepping
circuitry, programmable logic devices, custom integrated circuits,
and other circuitry could be used instead of a microprocessor.
[0368] Although not shown, Microprocessor (168) includes logic
clock and timing circuits. The controller includes the optional
function blocks of Memory (170), Watch-Dog Timer (172), Reset
Circuitry (174), and Programming Port (176).
[0369] Memory (170) includes ROM, RAM, EPROM, EEPROM, and any other
memory circuitry. Memory (170) is used to hold operating program(s)
and/or data messages or strings.
[0370] Watch-Dog Timer (172) is used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0371] Reset Circuitry (174) is also used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0372] Programming Port (176) is used to enter or alter data
messages or operating programs or parameters of the device.
Programming Port (176) may or may not be physically present on the
outside of the device housing, and may or may not be wire or
contact based.
[0373] Radio Transmitter (178) is typically, but not limited to, a
low-powered (100 mW or less) radio transmitter. This is the radio
transmitting means that is used to transmit data or messages to
compatible receivers that are within range. Among the data or
messages being transmitted include information about the geographic
location of the transmitter, the serial number of the transmitter,
and/or information that varies by location, such as closest
telephone extension number and/or in the case of the outdoors,
types of vegetation or directions to the closest rest room,
etc.
[0374] Radio Transmitter Antenna (180) may or may not be external
to the device enclosure, and may or may not be directional, and may
or may not have gain or loss compared to a unity isotropic
antenna.
[0375] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the basic circuitry necessary
to implement a basic version of an alternate embodiment of the
invention.
[0376] As described before, the power supply section consists of
Solar Cell (124) and Rectifier and Storage Cell (126). Solar Cell
(124) takes in light energy that is lamp light or sunlight. The
output of Solar Cell (124) is then coupled to Rectifier and Storage
Cell (126) whereby it is conditioned and at least some of the
energy is stored for later use. Rectifier and Storage Cell (126)
may or may not include a voltage or current regulator or limiting
circuit.
[0377] Note that Solar Cell (124) may in fact represent more than
one solar cell, and said solar cells do not necessarily need to
aimed in the same direction or towards the same source. Indeed, one
anticipated application of the invention is that a housing and/or
device could be designed to utilize power from a lamp or lighting
source when it's available, while also attempting to use sunlight
or another light energy source when it's available. For example, a
descriptive location transmitting device installed on or near an
outside light fixture at Disneyland could use sunlight for a power
source during the day, and the light generated by a lamp that is
part of the light fixture at night.
[0378] Also as described before, Microprocessor (168) is used as
the controlling device in this embodiment. However, nothing herein
should be construed as to limit the controlling section or
circuitry to be limited only to being microprocessor based. It is
anticipated that logic stepping circuitry, programmable logic
devices, custom integrated circuits, and other circuitry could be
used instead of a microprocessor.
[0379] Although not shown, Microprocessor (168) includes logic
clock and timing circuits. As is true thought this discussion, not
all of the possible ancillary, auxiliary, or support circuitry
possible for inclusion with the control circuitry are shown. For
example, clock-calender circuitry is certainly possible and
anticipated, as is circuitry for determining and measuring the
present weather conditions.
[0380] The controller includes the optional function blocks of
Memory (170), Watch-Dog Timer (172), Reset Circuitry (174), and
Programming Port (176).
[0381] Memory (170) includes ROM, RAM, EPROM, EEPROM, and/or any
other memory circuitry. Memory (170) is used to hold operating
program(s) and/or data messages or strings.
[0382] Watch-Dog Timer (172) is used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0383] Reset Circuitry (174) is also used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0384] Programming Port (176) is used to enter or alter data
messages or operating programs or parameters of the device.
Programming Port (176) may or may not be physically present on the
outside of the device housing, and may or may not be wire or
contact based.
[0385] Optical Transmitter (206) is typically, but not limited to,
circuitry that includes one or more infrared Light Emitting Diode
(LED) transmitters and associated driver circuitry. Optionally,
Optical Transmitter (206) could be a fluorescent lamp or other
optical source that is modulated to carry data or messages.
[0386] Optical Transmitter (206) represents the optical
transmitting means that is used to transmit data or messages to
compatible receivers that are within range. Among the data or
messages being transmitted include information about the geographic
location of the transmitter, the serial number of the transmitter,
and/or information that varies by location, such as closest
telephone extension number and/or in the case of the outdoors,
types of vegetation or directions to the closest rest room,
etc.
[0387] FIGS. 22A, 22B, 22C, and 22D, are diagrams of one of a
possible many designs for the housings described and anticipated in
the invention. Nothing therein or herein should be taken to limit
the design of the housings, including facilities for mounting or
attaching the housings. In addition, nothing herein nor therein
should be taken so as to require the mounting or attaching of the
invention next to or near a lighting fixture or lamp. It is
anticipated by the invention that some or all of the devices may be
powered directly or indirectly by sunlight.
[0388] FIG. 22A shows a end-view of a possible design of a housing
that could be clipped-on to or over a T-8 sized fluorescent lamp.
T8-Lamp Plastic Clip (314) is designed to be flexible and withstand
the temperatures associated with fluorescent lamps and housings.
Main Housing Body (312) holds Solar Cell (124) and the majority of
the remaining electronic circuitry, with the possible exception of
one or more elements of Optical Transmitter (206), and/or Radio
Transmitter Antenna (180), and /or Radio Receiver Antenna (416), as
appropriate to the configuration of the device.
[0389] FIG. 22B likewise shows a end-view of a possible T12-Lamp
Plastic Clip (310) is designed to be flexible and withstand the
temperatures associated with fluorescent lamps and housings. Main
Housing Body (312) holds Solar Cell (124) and the majority of the
remaining electronic circuitry, with the possible exception of one
or more elements of Optical Transmitter (206), and/or Radio
Transmitter Antenna (180), and/or Radio Receiver Antenna (416), as
appropriate to the configuration of the device.
[0390] FIG. 22C shows a top-view of a possible design of a housing
that could be clipped-on to or over a fluorescent lamp. Solar Cell
(124) is shown installed facing the direction of the phosphors of
the fluorescent lamp. T8-Lamp Plastic Clip (314) [or in the case of
a T-12 sized lamp, T12-Lamp Plastic Clip (310)] is again designed
to be flexible and withstand the temperatures associated with
fluorescent lamps and housings. Below Solar Cell (124), is shown
but not labeled, part of Main Housing Body (312).
[0391] Note that FIG. 22C, nor any of FIGS. 22A, 22B, or 22D, limit
Solar Cell (124) as being aimed or focused only in the direction or
towards the fluorescent lamp. As described above and below, one
anticipated variation of the invention is that a housing and/or
device could be designed to utilize power from a lamp or lighting
source when it's available, while also attempting to use sunlight
or another light energy source when it's available. Alternatively,
the housing could be designed with a movable and adjustable solar
cell assembly, thus accommodating a housing designed to be mounted
to any surface, and to utilize any light source or sources.
[0392] FIG. 22D shows a side-view of a possible design of a housing
that could be clipped-on to or over a fluorescent lamp. Like
before, T8-Lamp Plastic Clip (314) [or in the case of a T-12 sized
lamp, T12-Lamp Plastic Clip (310)] is again designed to be flexible
and withstand the temperatures associated with fluorescent lamps
and housings. Main Housing Body (312) is shown below T8-Lamp
Plastic Clip (314).
[0393] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the basic circuitry necessary
to implement a basic version of an alternate embodiment of the
invention.
[0394] As described before, the power supply section consists of
Solar Cell (124) and Rectifier and Storage Cell (126). Solar Cell
(124) takes in light energy that is lamp light or sunlight. The
output of Solar Cell (124) is then coupled to Rectifier and Storage
Cell (126) whereby it is conditioned and at least some of the
energy is stored for later use. Rectifier and Storage Cell (126)
may or may not include a voltage or current regulator or limiting
circuit.
[0395] Note that Solar Cell (124) may in fact represent more than
one solar cell, and said solar cells do not necessarily need to
aimed in the same direction or towards the same source. Indeed, one
anticipated application of the invention is that a housing and/or
device could be designed to utilize power from a lamp or lighting
source when it's available, while also attempting to use sunlight
or another light energy source when it's available. For example, a
descriptive location transmitting device installed on or near an
outside light fixture at Disneyland could use sunlight for a power
source during the day, and the light generated by a lamp that is
part of the light fixture at night.
[0396] Also as described before, Microprocessor (168) is used as
the controlling device in this embodiment. However, nothing herein
should be construed as to limit the controlling section or
circuitry to be limited only to being microprocessor based. It is
anticipated that logic stepping circuitry, programmable logic
devices, custom integrated circuits, and other circuitry could be
used instead of a microprocessor.
[0397] Although not shown, Microprocessor (168) includes logic
clock and timing circuits. The controller includes the optional
function blocks of Memory (170), Watch-Dog Timer (172), Reset
Circuitry (174), and Programming Port (176).
[0398] Memory (170) includes ROM, RAM, EPROM, EEPROM, and/or any
other memory circuitry. Memory (170) is used to hold operating
program(s) and/or data messages or strings.
[0399] Watch-Dog Timer (172) is used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0400] Reset Circuitry (174) is also used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0401] Programming Port (176) is used to enter or alter data
messages or operating programs or parameters of the device.
Programming Port (176) may or may not be physically present on the
outside of the device housing, and may or may not be wire or
contact based.
[0402] Optical Transmitter (206) is typically, but not limited to,
circuitry that includes one or more infrared Light Emitting Diode
(LED) transmitters and associated driver circuitry. Optionally,
Optical Transmitter (206) could be a fluorescent lamp or other
optical source that is modulated to carry data or messages.
[0403] Optical Transmitter (206) represents the optical
transmitting means that is used to transmit data or messages to
compatible receivers that are within range. Among the data or
messages being transmitted include information about the geographic
location of the transmitter, the serial number of the transmitter,
and/or information that varies by location, such as closest
telephone extension number and/or in the case of the outdoors,
types of vegetation or directions to the closest rest room,
etc.
[0404] Radio Receiver (414) is a radio-based receiver that is used
to receive data or messages that will be transmitted by the device,
or otherwise control, program, or alter the behavior of, the
device.
[0405] Radio Receiver Antenna (416) may or may not be external to
the device enclosure, and may or may not be directional, and may or
may not have gain or loss compared to a unity isotropic
antenna.
[0406] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing the basic circuitry necessary
to implement a basic version of an alternate embodiment of the
invention.
[0407] As described before, the power supply section consists of
Solar Cell (124) and Rectifier and Storage Cell (126). Solar Cell
(124) takes in light energy that is lamp light or sunlight. The
output of Solar Cell (124) is then coupled to Rectifier and Storage
Cell (126) whereby it is conditioned and at least some of the
energy is stored for later use. Rectifier and Storage Cell (126)
may or may not include a voltage or current regulator or limiting
circuit.
[0408] Note that Solar Cell (124) may in fact represent more than
one solar cell, and said solar cells do not necessarily need to
aimed in the same direction or towards the same source. Indeed, one
anticipated application of the invention is that a housing and/or
device could be designed to utilize power from a lamp or lighting
source when it's available, while also attempting to use sunlight
or another light energy source when it's available. For example, a
descriptive location transmitting device installed on or near an
outside light fixture at Disneyland could use sunlight for a power
source during the day, and the light generated by a lamp that is
part of the light fixture at night.
[0409] Also as described before, Microprocessor (168) is used as
the controlling device in this embodiment. However, nothing herein
should be construed as to limit the controlling section or
circuitry to be limited only to being microprocessor based. It is
anticipated that logic stepping circuitry, programmable logic
devices, custom integrated circuits, and other circuitry could be
used instead of a microprocessor.
[0410] Although not shown, Microprocessor (168) includes logic
clock and timing circuits. The controller includes the optional
function blocks of Memory (170), Watch-Dog Timer (172), Reset
Circuitry (174), and Programming Port (176).
[0411] Memory (170) includes ROM, RAM, EPROM, EEPROM, and/or any
other memory circuitry. Memory (170) is used to hold operating
program(s) and/or data messages or strings.
[0412] Watch-Dog Timer (172) is used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0413] Reset Circuitry (174) is also used to monitor the proper
operation of the microprocessor related circuitry.
[0414] Programming Port (176) is used to enter or alter data
messages or operating programs or parameters of the device.
Programming Port (176) may or may not be physically present on the
outside of the device housing, and may or may not be wire or
contact based.
[0415] Radio Transmitter (178) is typically, but not limited to, a
low-powered (100 mW or less) radio transmitter. This is the radio
transmitting means that is used to transmit data or messages to
compatible receivers that are within range. Among the data or
messages being transmitted include information about the geographic
location of the transmitter, the serial number of the transmitter,
and/or information that varies by location, such as closest
telephone extension number and/or in the case of the outdoors,
types of vegetation or directions to the closest rest room,
etc.
[0416] Radio Transmitter Antenna (180) may or may not be external
to the device enclosure, and may or may not be directional, and may
or may not have gain or loss compared to a unity isotropic
antenna.
[0417] Radio Receiver (414) is a radio-based receiver that is used
to receive data or messages that will be transmitted by the device,
or otherwise control, program, or alter the behavior of, the
device.
[0418] Radio Receiver Antenna (416) may or may not be external to
the device enclosure, and may or may not be directional, and may or
may not have gain or loss compared to a unity isotropic antenna,
and may or may not be separate from Radio Transmitter Antenna
(180).
[0419] FIG. 25 diagrams a building floor plan showing a possible
arrangement of lighting assemblies generating the light energy
anticipated to be used by the invention. Fluorescent Lamp Assembly
11 (600) and Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 12 (606) each represents one
of the lighting fixture assemblies anticipated in the invention.
Among the data messages being transmitted by the device installed
next to, clipped-on to, the fluorescent lamp tubes, are the
lighting fixture serial numbers as "11" for Fluorescent Lamp
Assembly 11 (600), and "12" for Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 12
(606).
[0420] FIG. 26 illustrates application of the invention. Ceiling
(702) represents the ceiling of a typical office. Lamp Assembly 1
(704) corresponds to Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11 (600) of FIG. 6,
and Lamp Assembly 2 (706) corresponds to Fluorescent Lamp Assembly
12 (606) of FIG. 6.
[0421] Each of Lamp Assembly 1 (704) and Lamp Assembly 2 (706) are
assemblies which house the fluorescent lamps, or other type of lamp
or lamps, as described herein. The device installed in or next to
Lamp Assembly 1 (704) is modulating it's transmitter output to
transmit a serial number of "11". The device installed in or next
to Lamp Assembly 2 (706) is modulating it's transmitter output to
transmit a serial number of "12".
[0422] Pager A (708), Pager B (710), and Pager C (712), are pagers
that are capable of receiving and decoding the low-power radio or
optical output of the devices of the invention.
OPERATION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0423] Refer to FIG. 1. The power from the AC mains of the building
enters into the ballast assembly and is applied to Rectifier,
Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102) wherein it is rectified
and filtered and outputted as two voltages: Low Voltage and High
Voltage. The High Voltage is primarily used by the fluorescent lamp
operating power supply circuitry to operate Fluorescent Tube
(4).
[0424] Specifically, the High Voltage is switched by Switching
Circuit (104) and applied to Transformer (108) where it is boosted
and applied to the cathodes of Fluorescent Tube (4). The filaments
of Fluorescent Tube (4) also derive their operating voltage from
Transformer (108).
[0425] Specifically, the switched high voltage supply from
Switching Circuit (104) is applied to the primary winding of
Transformer (108). The higher voltage secondary winding Arc Winding
(114), supplies the voltages necessary to form and maintain the arc
through Fluorescent Tube (4). The output of Arc Winding (114) are
coupled one each to the lower voltage secondary filament windings
Heater Winding `A` (110), and Heater Winding `B` (112). Each of
Heater Winding `A` (110), and Heater Winding `B` (112) generate the
voltages necessary to cause the heater/filaments of Fluorescent
Tube (4) to operate.
[0426] Note that the actual circuitry that is used to operate
Fluorescent Tube (4) is not important to this invention in as much
as any high voltage fluorescent tube circuitry can be used, so long
as the switching rate can be modified under control of the
controller or microprocessor circuit. Further note that the actual
type of fluorescent or arc lamp that is used as Fluorescent Tube
(4) is not important to this invention in as much as any arc lamp
bulb will function in the invention, so long as the circuitry and
specifications of the voltages and waveforms are so adjusted.
[0427] The Low Voltage is distributed to Microprocessor Control
Circuit (106) and to other circuits and assemblies that are
auxiliary to Microprocessor Control Circuit (106). Note that in
FIG. 1 that while their are no auxiliary and/or support circuits
shown, many are possible, and indeed some are discussed herein.
[0428] Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) consists of a
microprocessor, clock, and other support circuitry, and also
includes both operating program memory, and memory used to store
data messages that are to be transmitted. The microprocessor in
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) generates signals that are
used to control the switching rate of Switching Circuit (104) and
thus cause the output of Switching Circuit (104) to frequency shift
from one frequency to another. Therefore, the light output of
Fluorescent Tube (4) frequency shifts from one frequency to another
under the direct control of Microprocessor Control Circuit
(106).
[0429] Note that it is not of importance to the claims of this
invention as to how many optical flash rates or frequencies are
generated or used, nor as to how those optical flash rates or
frequencies are generated. Generation of the optical flash rates or
frequencies used herein can be directly as an output of the
microprocessor, or by a separate generation circuit under control
of the microprocessor. The use of more than two optical flash rates
or frequencies to represent more than two data symbols is
anticipated by the invention.
[0430] FIG. 3 represents the main embodiment of the invention, and
is an expansion of circuitry as compared to FIG. 1. In FIG. 3:
Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102); Switching
Circuit (104); Microprocessor Control Circuit (106); Transformer
(108); and Lamp and Switching Assembly (150); are as described
above in the discussion of FIG. 1. Although not shown, the
Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102) outputs
(High and Low Voltages) are distributed as appropriate and as
needed to power the circuitry represented in this diagram.
[0431] As before, the actual circuitry and fluorescent or arc lamp
type used within Lamp and Switching Assembly (150) is not of major
significance to the invention, and many variations of such
circuitry is anticipated.
[0432] Added here in FIG. 3 is Power Line Carrier Transceiver
(302). Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302) is used both to receive
data transmitted by a message generating device or controller that
is sending message or controlling data over a carrier frequency
superimposed on the AC mains, and to transmit back to said message
generating device or controller data generated by Microprocessor
Control Circuit (106) or data received by other means.
[0433] Also added here in FIG. 3 is Radio Transceiver (306). Radio
Transceiver (306) is a radio transceiver used to monitor and
receive radio signals from devices that are compatible with the
invention. If so desired and configured, Radio Transceiver (306)
can also transmit data or signals to any radio receiver that is in
range.
[0434] The transmission of said radio transmitted data or signals
is under the control of Microprocessor Control Circuit (106). The
radio transmitted data can be used to control or send data to
remote devices that may or may not have compatible optical
receivers. Alternatively, Radio Transceiver (306) can be used to
transceive zonal data to compatible devices that are within radio
range, but not line-of-sight optical range. For example, a remote
device that is within a brief case or purse.
[0435] FIG. 3 then, is a ballast assembly which in part generates
microprocessor controlled FSK signals that are effectively
amplified and applied to a fluorescent lamp, which in turn
generates an optical output that contains at minimum a signature of
the originating switching frequency that can be read by remote
devices compatible with the invention (reference Graph Line (202)
in FIG. 2A). Furthermore, the ballast assembly of FIG. 3 contains a
power line carrier transceiver for sending and receiving data via
the power line wiring of a building, and a radio transceiver that
is capable of transceiving radio signals with remote devices.
[0436] In application, Microprocessor Control Circuit (106)
contains in memory stored data which is to be routinely
transmitted. As an example, and without limitation, such data may
consist of a lamp assembly serial number, an alpha-numeric string
describing the location of the lamp assembly and therefore the
location of the device receiving the lamp output, the closest
telephone extension to that location, and which audible public
address paging zone the user is presently in.
[0437] Data as described above is routinely transmitted under
control of Microprocessor Control Circuit (106), and these data
messages are repeated as often as practical.
[0438] Besides the routine data messages described above, the main
embodiment is also capable of receiving other message strings
("Variable Messages") or command strings by either the receiver in
Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302) or Radio Transceiver
(306).
[0439] For example, it is anticipated that a remotely located
controlling device ("Base Station") will generate a Variable
Message that is to be broadcasted by one or more ballast
assemblies. The Base Station will first format said message string,
add the necessary addressing information, and then transmit said
string via a power line carrier transmitter to one or more ballasts
or power line fed devices that are embodiments of the invention.
The addressing information contained in the formatted string is any
data header or data type that facilitates the identification of
which device or devices compatible with the invention are to
transmit the string, how often said string is to be transmitted,
which remote devices are to receive the data, as well as other
control and/or formatting data that are necessary for operation of
the system. Control messages are similarly formatted and
processed.
[0440] In this case, if the embodiment is that of the main
embodiment of FIG. 3, the formatted Variable Message is received by
the receiver portion of Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302), and
then passed to Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) for decoding,
storing, and processing. Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) then
controls Switching Circuit (104) whereby the voltages (waveforms)
applied to Fluorescent Tube (4) cause it (or them, as Fluorescent
Tube (4) can represent more than one fluorescent lamp tube) to
discharge an optical signal that is frequency shifted (or otherwise
modulated) to encode the desired message.
[0441] Once a remote device ("Target") receives the optical signal,
and successfully decodes the message string, if so designed and
commanded the Target will employ a low-power radio transmitter
compatible with Radio Transceiver (306) of FIG. 3 to acknowledge
the reception of the message, or transmit other data that is
requested (such as what is the serial number of the lamp assembly
it is presently near).
[0442] The transmitted radio signal from the Target is received by
Radio Transceiver (306), and is decoded and passed to
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106). If so designated,
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) causes the transmitter in
Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302) to transmit to the appropriate
Base Station.
[0443] In an all radio-wave alternative application, the formatted
Variable Message generated by the Base Station is received by the
receiver portion of Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302), and then
passed to Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) for decoding,
storing, and processing. Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) then
controls Radio Transceiver (306) and transmits the appropriately
formatted radio message.
[0444] Once a remote device ("Target") receives the radio signal,
and successfully decodes the message string, if so designed and
commanded the Target will employ a low-power radio transmitter
compatible with Radio Transceiver (306) of FIG. 3 to acknowledge
the reception of the message, or transmit other data that is
requested (such as what is the serial number of the lamp assembly
it is presently near).
[0445] The transmitted radio signal from the Target is received by
Radio Transceiver (306), and is decoded and passed to
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106). If so designated,
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) causes the transmitter in
Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302) to transmit to the appropriate
Base Station.
[0446] Therefore, in the overall view, the diagram of the main
embodiment of FIG. 3 represents circuitry that can handshake and
communicate with both Target devices and Base Station devices.
[0447] FIG. 4 shows a typical office floor plan where in
fluorescent lamp assemblies form a quasi X-Y coordinate system.
That is, while not precisely symmetrical, fluorescent lamp
assemblies in offices and other facilities tend to be well
distributed, so that if it is known to which assembly a person or
Target is nearest, the location of said Target or person will be
determined with reasonable accuracy for most applications.
[0448] In FIG. 4, Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11 (402) and
Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 12 (404) are both located in Office #1
of Building #1; while the other fluorescent ballast assemblies are
not. Therefore, if Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11 (402) is
transmitting it's serial number as "11", and if a suitably designed
Target device is decoding the serial number "11", then the Target
device is next to or very near Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11
(402), and most probably is within Office #1 of Building #1.
Furthermore, the Target device is most probably located in the left
or center of said office as viewed in the floor plan of FIG. 4.
[0449] That is, Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11 (402) is optically
transmitting that it's serial number is "11", while Fluorescent
Ballast Assembly 12 (404) is optically transmitting that it's
serial number is "12". Therefore, any device nearest Fluorescent
Ballast Assembly 11 (402) is most probably receiving it's light
signal at a higher amplitude than the output of any other lamp
assembly, and therefore is decoding the serial number "11".
[0450] Note that both Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 11 (402) and
Fluorescent Ballast Assembly 12 (404) in this discussion are most
probably (but not necessarily) using a modulation method that
facilitates a capture effect. That is, whichever light signal is
received at the highest amplitude, will supply the optical data
that is eventually decoded. Note however, that using timed
transmissions with non-capture effect modulation is another method
that would also be suitable for application to the invention, and
in conjunction with received signal strength measurements could be
used to further improve the accuracy of determination of
location.
[0451] FIG. 5 is illustrative of one of the applications of the
invention. Pager A (508) is closest to Lamp Assembly 1 (504) and
therefore will decode a lamp assembly serial number of "11". If
Pager A (508) is paged, it responds by transmitting an
acknowledgment of the page which incorporates the decoded serial
number. The transmitted acknowledgment is via an incorporated radio
transmitter compatible with the Radio Transceiver (306) of FIG. 3.
The ballast assembly then transmits the received pager
acknowledgment to the appropriate base or controller station by way
of the Power Line Carrier Transceiver (302), also of FIG. 3.
[0452] In this fashion, the appropriate base or controller station
is made aware that Pager A (508), is near Lamp Assembly 1 (504),
and therefore the in-building location of Pager A (508) is now
known.
[0453] In similar fashion, Pager C (512) is closest to Lamp
Assembly 2 (506). If Pager C (512) is paged, it responds by
transmitting an acknowledgment of the page which incorporates the
decoded serial number. The transmitted acknowledgment is by an
incorporated radio transmitter compatible with the Radio
Transceiver (306) of FIG. 3. The ballast assembly then transmits
the received pager acknowledgment to the appropriate base or
controller station by way of the Power Line Carrier Transceiver
(302), also of FIG. 3.
[0454] In the case of Pager C (510) however, Pager C (510) may be
decoding either the serial number of Lamp Assembly 1 (504) or Lamp
Assembly 2 (506). Pager C (510) will decode the serial number of
whichever lamp assembly the optical detector of Pager C (510) is
receiving the strongest.
[0455] Alternatively, if Lamp Assembly 1 (504) and Lamp Assembly 2
(506) use an amplitude modulation scheme (or other appropriate
modulation method), and their transmissions are appropriately
staggered in timing windows, both of their serial numbers could be
decoded and reported to the appropriate base or control station,
along with received signal strengths if the pager is so
equipped.
OPERATION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT--MULTIPLEXED
OPERATION
[0456] Refer to FIG. 6.
[0457] As discussed previously, the use of more than two optical
flash rates or frequencies to simultaneously transmit or represent
two or more data symbols is anticipated by the invention, and it is
here in FIG. 6 that one such application is demonstrated.
[0458] As referred to before in the discussion of the main
embodiment and in discussion of FIG. 1, the power from the AC mains
of the building enters into the ballast assembly and is applied to
Rectifier, Filter, and Dual-Voltage Power Supply (102) wherein it
is rectified and filtered and outputted as two voltages: Low
Voltage and High Voltage.
[0459] Also as before, the Low Voltage is distributed to
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) and to other circuits and
assemblies that are auxiliary to Microprocessor Control Circuit
(106). Note that while their are no auxiliary and/or support
circuits shown, many are possible, and indeed some have been
discussed herein.
[0460] Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) consists of a
microprocessor, clock, and other support circuitry, and also
includes both operating program memory, and memory used to store
data messages that are to be transmitted. The microprocessor in
Microprocessor Control Circuit (106) generates signals that are
used to control the switching rate of each of the Lamp and
Switching Assembly (150)
[0461] Each of Lamp and Switching Assembly 1 (602) and Lamp and
Switching Assembly 2 (604) represents the switching, transformer,
and lamp function blocks as defined as Lamp and Switching Assembly
(150) herein. That is, Switching Circuit (104), Transformer (108),
and Fluorescent Tube (4), as discussed in the main embodiment, are
within each of Lamp and Switching Assembly 1 (602) and Lamp and
Switching Assembly 2 (604).
[0462] Each of the Lamp and Switching Assembly 1 (602) and Lamp and
Switching Assembly 2 (604) are operated by Microprocessor Control
Circuit (106) so as to use different optical flash rates or
frequencies from each other, thus facilitating two independent
means of data generation or transmission by optical energy.
[0463] For example, Lamp and Switching Assembly 1 (602) may operate
at 40 kHz and 42 kHz for symbols 0 and 1 respectively, and Lamp and
Switching Assembly 2 (604) may operate at 45 kHz and 47 kHz for
symbols 0 and 1 respectively.
[0464] Note that it is not of importance to the claims of this
invention as to how the optical flash rates or frequencies are
generated or used. Generation of the optical flash rates or
frequencies used herein can be directly as an output of the
microprocessor, or by a separate generation circuit under control
of the microprocessor.
[0465] It is important to note that the communications techniques
and the devices discussed herein are not limited to voice-only or
message-only communications devices. Indeed, several radio-based or
optical-based data exchange systems would be greatly enhanced and
improved, in both method and application, by both optical-wave
means and radio-wave means used in combination. This includes
general data network systems and peer-to-peer computer network
systems; both local-area and wide-area; with and without servers or
controllers.
[0466] A modified cellular radio-telephone, with optical
modifications similar as those suggested in FIGS. 7 through 13, is
used in the discussion of the operation of the main embodiment that
follows.
[0467] Users of a cellular radio-telephone while outside of a
private In-House system- equipped office building uses their
radio-telephone in the traditional manner. The cellular
radio-telephone operates, in simplified terms, in the same way that
cellular radio-telephones operate and are used today. That is,
while not in use, the cellular radio-telephone monitors and
responds on a full-duplex radio control channel transmitted by a
licensed cellular radio-telephone service provider.
[0468] The control channels bi-directionally carry information
about the cellular system, data as to in-progress telephone calls,
radio channel assignments, power levels, and other system
operational parameters. These Public Carrier cellular systems
transmit their control data from the local cell site (base station)
to the cellular radio-telephone over the Forward Operational
Control Channel (FOCC) as defined in EIA specification
ANSI/EIA/TIA-553-1989 or later edition entitled "Mobile
Station--Land Station Compatibility Specification". The
radio-telephones respond and transmit their data messages to the
local cell sites on the Reverse Operational Control Channel (ROCC)
as also defined on the EIA Specification.
[0469] To receive a phone call, the cellular radio-telephone is
paged over the radio FOCC (the frequency used for cell
site-to-radio-telephone communications). The cellular
radio-telephone then acknowledges receiving the page over the radio
ROCC (the frequency used for radio-telephone-to-cell site
communications), and then the radio-telephone notifies the user
that a phone call is incoming by generating a ring signal. If the
user answers the call, the cellular radio-telephone notifies the
cellular system over the ROCC that the user wishes to answer the
call and establish a voice link to the telephone caller.
[0470] The cellular system then uses the FOCC to assign the
cellular radio-telephone an open and available full-duplex
voice-channel, and then assigns the unit operational parameters
such as transmitter power levels and which signals are to be used
for identification purposes. Both the cell site and the
radio-telephone then switch to the voice channel, and the telephone
conversation then begins.
[0471] In a similar fashion, if the cellular radio-telephone user
desires to place a call, the cellular radio-telephone transmits
over the ROCC to the cellular system the radio-telephone's MIN
(Mobile Identification Number), ESN (Electronic Serial Number), and
the phone number that is desired to be called. The cellular system
then uses the FOCC to assign the unit an open and available
full-duplex voice-channel, unit operational parameters such as
transmitter power levels, and which signals are to be used for
identification purposes. The telephone system then dials the number
and both the cell site and the radio-telephone switch to the
assigned voice channel whereby the telephone conversation then
begins.
[0472] With this invention, the operation of the cellular
radio-telephone while the unit is within range of a Cooperative
In-House optical system is different. The cellular radio-telephone
still receives the Public Carrier cellular telephone provider's
FOCC data through the radio channel, but is concurrently receiving
the private In-House cellular telephone provider's FOCC data
through the optical channel.
[0473] Effectively, the cellular radio-telephone now receives and
responds to two Forward Operational Control Channels: one for the
Public Carrier cellular system (the FOCC received by radio means);
and one for the private In-House cellular system (the FOCC received
by optical means).
[0474] Any optical data signal that passes through the cellular
radio-telephone's Optical Sensor Window (reference 200 in FIGS. 7,
8, 11, and 12) that is within range and is within the qualifying
optical carrier frequency parameters programmed into the modified
cellular radio-telephone unit, is decoded and read.
[0475] If a qualifying optical signal is received, it is decoded
and the data is stored in memory. The stored data is used by the
cellular phone to determine if the system generating the optical
data is that of the user's one or more Cooperative In-House
systems. That is, the user's radio-telephone is within range of a
privately operated cellular system where the user's radio-telephone
has been granted access (that is, a Cooperative In-House
system).
[0476] If it is determined that the system generating the optical
data is not a Cooperative System, then the radio-telephone
continues to decode the optical data frames in search of a system
that is internally programmed as a Cooperative System.
[0477] If it is determined that the system generating the optical
data is a Cooperative System, then the received and decoded optical
data is used to determine what radio frequency and what transmitter
power level is to be used by the cellular radio-telephone for the
In-House ROCC. That is, what radio frequency should be used to
acknowledge optical control signal calls and data, as well as to
send status messages from the cellular phone to the private
In-House system.
[0478] Alternatively, the In-House optical FOCC data may indicate
to the radio-telephone that the unit's built-in optical transmitter
(if so equipped) is to be used by the cellular radio-telephone for
the ROCC. That is, that the acknowledging of optical control signal
calls and data, as well as the sending of status and other messages
from the cellular phone to the private system, is to be done
optically.
[0479] All optical data received by the radio-telephone is decoded
and stored. If the private In-House system desires to call the
radio-telephone unit, then the unit's serial number is paged over
the optical FOCC. The radio-telephone receives the page data which
includes such information as radio voice-channel frequency
assignments and transmitter power levels. The unit then produces an
audible ring signal to the user, and switches to the assigned radio
voice-channel and sends a page acknowledgment to the In-House
system controller. Once the user answers the phone, an off-hook
handshake is performed over the voice-channel and the In-House
system connects the required audio paths and communication then
begins.
[0480] In a similar fashion, if the user desires to place a call,
the modified cellular radio-telephone transmits it's serial number
on the radio or optical ROCC (as determined by the system).
Following the transmission of it's serial number, the number the
user desires to dial is transmitted.
[0481] The In-House system then responds over the optical FOCC with
a page of the unit, including such information as voice-channel
frequency assignments and transmitter power levels. The unit then
switches to the assigned voice-channel and an off-hook handshake is
performed on the voice-channel. The In-House system then completes
the communications path, and the number is dialed.
[0482] Optionally, whenever the cellular radio-telephone unit is
within range, the radio-telephone unit will receive In-House paging
messages over the optical FOCC. The radio-telephone will act as a
pager, and will notify the user of any pages addressed to the
radio-telephone, and display the message on the unit's visual
display.
[0483] Similarly, the In-House system can receive messages and
status codes from the modified cellular radio-telephone over the
optical or radio (as determined by the system) ROCC. In this way
the user's status can be updated as often as desired, and received
messages can be acknowledged.
[0484] In addition to the improvements and benefits the embodiments
describe herein, the optical circuitry also facilitates the ability
to locate any optically equipped radio unit's location to a more
accurate degree, and with greater cost effectiveness, then existing
technologies currently allow. Whenever a modified unit is in or
near a Cooperative System, then locating that unit to the closest
optical transmitter, receiver, or transceiver, is made
practical.
[0485] If a specific In-House optical transmitter transmits one or
more of a unique serial number, identification code, or location
string, over the optical FOCC; then the reporting of the reception
of this unique serial number, identification code, or location
string, to the In-House system over the ROCC facilitates the
locating of said radio-telephone to the service area of that
specific optical transmitter.
[0486] The more In-House optical transmitters that are installed,
the greater the accuracy of locating of the radio unit.
[0487] Furthermore, the use of the analyses of the received signal
strengths from either the radio-telephone or In-House system
optical transmitters will yield further accuracy to the location of
the transmitting or receiving unit.
[0488] It is anticipated in this application that techniques herein
of locating radio units and other system applications will be
covered in subsequent patent applications.
DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS--PAGERS
[0489] FIG. 14 is demonstrative of an alternate embodiment of the
invention. In the case of application to a pager, a Typical Pager
and Housing (20) is modified to add optical circuitry to the
already existing radio circuitry. The optical circuitry is
interfaced to the existing microprocessor or other existing
controller circuitry in such a way as to allow the reception and
decoding of optical-wave messaging without interference to the
ability to receive and decode radio-wave messaging.
[0490] This requires the addition of an optical sensor window to
the designs of existing pager housings. FIG. 14 shows a possible
placement for the required Optical Sensor Window (203) on a Typical
Pager and Housing (20) as suggested by the requirements of my
invention. The Optical Sensor Window (203) is placed so that when
the Typical Pager and Housing (20) is carried and worn by the user,
the Optical Sensor Window (203) is oriented upwards.
[0491] With the exception of the Optical Sensor Window (203), all
should be taken as typical of existing one-way radio-paging
products on the market today. Optical Sensor Window (203) is
necessary to let light pass through the otherwise light-blocking
plastic housing of the Typical Pager and Housing (20). It should be
noted that in the case of a pager housing utilizing transparent
plastic, as some pagers are presently offered, then no separate
Optical Sensor Window (203) would be necessary. In addition, it
should be noted that the Optical Sensor Window (203) may or may not
embody a lens or other light focusing or directing elements, and
may or may not filter the spectrum of incoming light, whether
consisting of an integral assembly or a group of separate
sub-assemblies.
[0492] The radio portion of the pager operates as normal, and
receives the modulated radio signals transmitted on the radio
channel. If the unit receives a radio page message that is
addressed for the unit, the pager circuitry displays the decoded
message on the pager's display and notifies the user of a message
received.
[0493] As an option, an indication can be made to the user that the
message originated from the radio system.
[0494] The optical portion of the pager receives modulated optical
signals transmitted by one or a plurality of optical transmitters
located inside or outside of an office, building, or other
structure ( that is, the In-House system). The pager optical
circuitry decodes the received optical transmissions, and if the
unit decodes a page message that is addressed for the unit, then
the pager circuitry displays the decoded message on the pager's
display and notifies the user of a message received.
[0495] As an option, an indication is made to the user that the
message originated from the optical or In-House system.
[0496] Note that it is possible to receive both radio-wave and
optical-wave transmissions at the same time without interference.
Additionally note that In-House optical messaging and
communications do not require licensing from the FCC or other
appropriate governmental regulatory agency.
[0497] Further note that such paging services are not limited to
one-way services. Indeed, the addition of either or both
optical-wave transmission circuitry, and/or radio-wave transmission
circuitry; to the pager device allows confirmation of message
reception or even two-way message and status passing.
[0498] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of typical circuitry in this
alternate embodiment of my invention. Optical Light Rays (210),
traveling through the Optical Sensor Window (203) strikes the
Optical Sensor Assembly (230), where it is converted to electrical
signals which are then applied to the Optical Signal Decoder
Circuitry (232).
[0499] The demodulated logic-level output is then passed out of the
Optical Signal Decoder Circuitry (232) to an input port of the
existing pager Microprocessing and Signal Processing Circuitry
(70). The Microprocessing and Signal Processing Circuitry (70)
decodes the received logic-level voltages and recovers the encoded
data.
[0500] With the exception of references 203 through 232 in FIG. 15,
all other references should be taken as typical of existing pager
radio functional blocks, and their functions are described briefly
here as follows:
[0501] Paging Radio Signals (62) are received at the Antenna (64)
and are routed to the Radio Receiver (66), wherein they are
demodulated and outputted. The signals are passed-on to the
Microprocessing and Signal Processing Circuitry (70).
[0502] If the addressing of the decoded radio page is correct, then
the Microprocessing and Signal Processing Circuitry (70) generates
audio signals which are passed to the Receiver Speaker (68).
[0503] The Keypad (72) is used to control the pager. The Display
(74) is used to display to the user the decoded message and
indicate certain status' of the pager. It is envisioned that the
Display (74) may also be utilized for such functions as displaying
information about present location, present status, received
messages, and other information generated or made possible by the
optical system.
OPERATION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS--PAGERS
[0504] In the operation of the alternate embodiment of the pager,
the following operational discussion is offered. A modified radio
pager, with optical modifications similar as those suggested in
FIGS. 9, 10, 14, and 15, is used in the discussion of the operation
of alternate embodiment that follows.
[0505] A user wearing a modified pager whether in or out-of-range
of a Cooperative In-House optical system will receive all paging
transmissions sent by radio-wave means. That is, the wide-area
service provider (most often a Public Carrier), utilizing radio
communications for service to users, will provide said service to
the user so long as the pager is within range of the radio
system.
[0506] However, when the modified pager is within range of a
Cooperative In-House optical system, the pager circuitry will
decode all messages sent over the optical FOCC. Should a message be
decoded that is addressed to the pager, the pager displays the
message contents on the display, and the user is notified by
audible tone or other method, that a paging message has been
received.
[0507] As an option, if optical or radio transmitter equipped; the
pager can acknowledge the reception of an optical message by either
radio or optical transmission means. In addition, and in a similar
fashion to the earlier cellular radio-telephone discussion, the
pager could be equipped with the ability to transmit status codes
and simple messages to the In-House system controller.
[0508] It is anticipated that means to indicate the source of the
page (i.e. radio system or optical system), and status of optical
system reception, may be provided to the user, perhaps by an icon
in the display.
DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS--TWO-WAY RADIOS
[0509] In a similar fashion to cellular radio-telephones and
pagers, two-way portable radios can also be manufactured to utilize
both radio-wave and optical-wave communication means. This includes
any radio operating on any frequency and including Public Carrier
system-operated radios (such as "Trunked" or "SMR" radios).
[0510] FIGS. 16A and 16B show a possible placement for a required
Optical Sensor Window (204) on a Typical Portable Two-Way Radio and
Housing (30) as suggested by the requirements of my invention. With
the exception of the Optical Sensor Window (204), all should be
taken as typical of existing two-way portable radio products on the
market today. Optical Sensor Window (204) is necessary to let light
pass through the otherwise light-blocking plastic or metal housings
typical of portable radios.
[0511] In addition, it should be noted that the Optical Sensor
Window (204) may or may not embody a lens or other light focusing
or directing elements, and may or may not filter the spectrum of
incoming light; whether consisting of an integral assembly or a
group of separate sub-assemblies.
[0512] FIG. 17 also shows a possible placement for the required
Optical Sensor Window (204) on a Typical Portable Two-Way Radio and
Housing (30) as suggested by the requirements of my invention. In
addition to the Optical Sensor Window (204), some optional
modifications to the Typical Portable Two-Way Radio and Housing
(30) as suggested by my invention are shown. The Optical Sensor
Window (204) is necessary to let light pass through the otherwise
light-blocking plastic or metal housing typical of most portable
radios.
[0513] As noted above, the Optical Sensor Window (204) may or may
not embody a lens or other light focusing or directing elements,
and may or may not filter the spectrum of incoming light; whether
consisting of an integral assembly or a group of separate
sub-assemblies.
[0514] The optional Visual Display (32) is a numeric or
alpha-numeric display used for presenting status or operational
information about the radio or radio system, as well as for the
displaying of received one-way messaging strings. The Keypad (34)
is useful for allowing the radio operator to enter personal
conditions of status and availability, as well as for acknowledging
received messages.
[0515] Note that both the Visual Display (32) and the Keypad (34)
as shown here are elementary in representation, and should in no
way be interpreted to be any limitation as to their design,
operation, or configuration. The rest of FIG. 11 should be taken as
typical of most existing two-way portable devices on the market
today.
OPERATION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS--TWO WAY RADIOS
[0516] In the operation of the alternate embodiment of two-way
radios, the following operational discussion is offered. A modified
two-way radio, with optical modifications similar as those
suggested in FIGS. 9, 10, 16A, 16B, and 17, is used in the
discussion of the operation of alternate embodiment that
follows.
[0517] In ways similar to the cellular and pager discussions above,
a user of a modified two-way radio whether in or out-of-range of a
Cooperative In-House optical system will receive all transmissions
sent by radio-wave, and may transmit by radio whenever desired.
That is, radio communications services will be provided to the user
so long as the radio is within range of a radio system.
[0518] When in range of a Cooperative In-House optical system, the
modified two-way radio could be operated in a modified
trunking-radio scheme. That is, the radio could be assigned by
means of the optical control channel: radio frequencies, power
levels, and tone-coded or digital-coded squelch system parameters;
to be used for communication with other selected radio units, or
for telephone inter-connect services.
[0519] In the case of a two-way radio equipped with a visual
display and a keypad, as in FIG. 17, which is within range of a
Cooperative In-House optical system, the additional optical
circuitry decodes all messages sent over the optical FOCC. Should a
message be decoded that is addressed to the two-way radio, the
radio displays the message contents on the display, and the user is
notified by audible tone or other method that a paging message has
been received.
[0520] As an option, the radio can acknowledge the reception of an
optical message by either radio or optical (if so equipped)
transmission means. In addition, and in a similar fashion to the
earlier cellular radio-telephone discussion, the radio user can
transmit status codes and simple messages to the In-House system
controller.
[0521] It is anticipated that means to indicate the status of
optical system reception may be provided to the user, perhaps by an
icon in the display.
[0522] Refer to FIG. 20.
[0523] The circuitry described in FIG. 20 is installed into a
housing, perhaps a clip-on housing as described and shown herein as
FIG. 22.
[0524] The device is clipped-on to a fluorescent lamp.
Alternatively, a lamp other than a fluorescent may be utilized, or
the device may be positioned to receive sunlight. If a housing
other than a clip-on housing is used, then the device can be
mounted using screws or double-sided tape, or Velcro.RTM., or any
other mounting means; and then be mounted near or next to a lamp
assembly, or simply positioned in such a way so as to receive
sunlight.
[0525] A light source is utilized by Solar Cell (124), which in
turn generates electric power.
[0526] Power from Solar Cell (124) is applied to Rectifier and
Storage Cell (126) wherein it is rectified and filtered and
outputted as a voltage to the remaining circuitry.
[0527] The voltage is distributed to Microprocessor (168) and to
other circuits and assemblies that are auxiliary to Microprocessor
(168). Note that not all of the possible ancillary, auxiliary, or
support circuitry possible for inclusion with the control circuitry
are shown. For example, clock-calender circuitry is certainly
possible and anticipated, as is circuitry for determining and
measuring the present weather conditions.
[0528] One of the functions of Microprocessor (168) is to control
or generate the carrier frequency, or the modulation of the carrier
frequency, or generate the modulated carrier for use by the optical
or radio transmitter.
[0529] Note that it is not of importance to the claims of this
invention as to how the carrier frequencies are generated, or how
the modulation is accomplished, or how many data symbols or
frequencies are generated or used. Generation of the frequencies
used herein can be directly as an output of the microprocessor, or
by a separate generation circuit under control of the
microprocessor. The use of more than two logic symbols or states or
frequencies is anticipated by the invention.
[0530] Typically, Memory (170) holds the data that is to be
transmitted, the calibration and operating parameters for the
device, and finally, the operating program for the device.
Watch-Dog Timer (172) and Reset Circuitry (174) guard the device
from entering a state whereby the device locks-up, enters an
illegal or unanticipated program loop, or otherwise fails to
function properly.
[0531] Programming Port (176) is a wire or wireless port used to
program the device at the factory or in the field. Programming can
include the operating program, calibration data, serial number or
numbers, and other data which as an example, and without
limitation, may consist of a lamp assembly serial number, an
alpha-numeric string describing the location of the lamp assembly
and therefore the location of the device receiving the lamp output,
the closest telephone extension to that location, the floor number
the user is on, which control channel of the local cellular system
is to be used, and which audible public address paging zone the
user is presently in.
[0532] Radio Transmitter (178) and Radio Transmitter Antenna (180)
is used to transmit the data and messages to a remote device or
object equipped with a compatible receiver. The remote receiver can
then utilize the data or messages as appropriate, perhaps to make
the area geographic location known to a user, or to provide to a
user usable or interesting facts related to the user's location. It
is also anticipated by the invention that some or all of this
received data or messages could also be reported by the remote
device or object to another remote location or device by means of
higher-power radio or other communication means.
[0533] Radio Transmitter (178) may use FM, PM, or AM, or any
combination thereof. Radio Transmitter (178) may be spread-spectrum
based, PCS or Cellular based, SMR based, High or low powered, or be
any other type or configuration of a radio transmitter.
OPERATION OF INVENTION--ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0534] As before in the main embodiment described above, the
alternative embodiments all make use of Solar Cell (124), Rectifier
and Storage Cell (126), Microprocessor (168), Memory (170),
Watch-Dog Timer (172), Reset Circuitry (174), and Programming Port
(176).
[0535] Also as described before, these descriptions should not be
used to limit the scope or application of the invention.
[0536] The difference between the alternate embodiments and the
main embodiment are the use of differing means for transmission of
the data or messages, and in some cases, the addition of a
radio-based receiving means.
[0537] In the case of an added receiving means such as Radio
Receiver (414) and Radio Receiver Antenna (416), said Radio
Receiver (414) may be a spread-spectrum radio receiver, a paging
radio receiver, a PCS or Cellular radio receiver, or an other radio
receiving circuit or device.
[0538] A possible application of such a device that utilizes a
Radio Receiver (414) and Radio Receiver Antenna (416), is in the
case of an application where new or updated message strings are
desired to be sent to the devices of the invention, or alternative,
to turn the devices on or off, or perform some other controlling
function. For example, if in the case of the use of the invention
on a large campus or high-rise, suppose it is desired to transmit
to all compatible receiving devices anticipated by the invention
that there is presently a fire alarm condition. An alarm panel
linked to a pager system radio base station could generate a pager
message that is compatible with the invention. Radio Receiver (414)
by way of Radio Receiver Antenna (416) could then receive and
decode such a message, and then insert the message into the
messages that are transmitted by either Radio Transmitter (178) or
Optical Transmitter (206), as appropriate to the version of
embodiment.
[0539] FIG. 25 shows a typical office floor plan wherein
fluorescent lamp assemblies form a quasi X-Y coordinate system.
That is, while not precisely symmetrical, fluorescent lamp
assemblies in offices and other facilities tend to be well
distributed, so that if it is known to which assembly a person or
object is nearest, the location of said person or object will be
determined with reasonable accuracy for most applications.
[0540] In FIG. 25, Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11 (600) and
Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 12 (606) are both located in Office #1 of
Building #1; while the other fluorescent lamp assemblies are not.
Therefore, if the device clipped-on to, or mounted next to,
Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11 (600) is transmitting it's serial
number as "11", and if a suitably designed receiving device is
decoding the serial number "11", then the person or object using
the receiver is next to or very near Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11
(600), and most probably is within Office #1 of Building #1.
Furthermore, the person or object is most probably located in the
left or center of said office as viewed in the floor plan of FIG.
25.
[0541] That is, Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11 (600) has next to or
in it a device of the invention that is transmitting it's serial
number as "11", while Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 12 (606) has next
to or in it a device of the invention that is transmitting it's
serial number as "12". Therefore, any compatible radio or optical
receiver nearest Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11 (600) is most
probably receiving it's signal at a higher amplitude than the
output of any other transmitting device of the invention, and
therefore is decoding the serial number "11".
[0542] Note that the devices of the invention mounted in or near
both Fluorescent Lamp Assembly 11 (600) and Fluorescent Lamp
Assembly 12 (606) in this discussion are most probably (but not
necessarily) using a modulation method that facilitates a capture
effect. That is, whichever transmitted signal is received at the
highest amplitude, will supply the data that is eventually decoded
by the compatible receiver. Note however, that using timed
transmissions with non-capture effect modulation is another method
that would also be suitable for application to the invention, and
in conjunction with received signal strength measurements could be
used to further improve the accuracy of determination of
location.
[0543] FIG. 26 is illustrative of one of the applications of the
invention. Pager A (708) is closest to Lamp Assembly 1 (704) and
therefore will decode a serial number of "11". If Pager A (708) is
paged, it responds by transmitting an acknowledgment of the page
which incorporates the decoded serial number. The transmitted
acknowledgment is via an incorporated radio transmitter compatible
with the paging system. That is, the pager assembly transmits the
decoded serial number and an acknowledgment back to the appropriate
base or controller station.
[0544] In this fashion, the appropriate base or controller station
is made aware that Pager A (708), is near Lamp Assembly 1 (704),
and therefore the in-building location of Pager A (708) is now
known.
[0545] In similar fashion, Pager C (712) is closest to Lamp
Assembly 2 (706). If Pager C (712) is paged, it responds by
transmitting an acknowledgment of the page which incorporates the
decoded serial number.
[0546] In the case of Pager C (710) however, the receiver
compatible with the signal transmitted by the device of the
invention may be decoding either the serial number associated with
Lamp Assembly 1 (704) or Lamp Assembly 2 (706). Pager C (710) will
decode the serial number of whichever lamp assembly (actually the
serial number of the device of the invention or whichever data or
message string is designated) that the compatible receiver detector
of Pager C (710) is receiving the strongest, or alternatively the
last successfully decoded serial number.
[0547] Alternatively, if the devices of the invention in or near
Lamp Assembly 1 (704) and Lamp Assembly 2 (706) use an amplitude
modulation scheme (or other appropriate modulation method), and
their transmissions are appropriately staggered in timing windows,
both of their serial numbers could be decoded and reported to the
appropriate base or control station, along with received signal
strengths if the pager is so equipped.
CONCLUSIONS, RAMIFICATIONS AND SCOPE OF INVENTION
[0548] Accordingly, the reader will see that the incorporation of
data transmission by optical-wave means in devices used for the
lighting of both working and living areas, facilitates:
[0549] The ability to utilize an existing infrastructure for the
transmission of data messages.
[0550] The ability to track and locate a user or device within a
facility, with greater accuracy and lower cost compared to existing
technologies.
[0551] A rapidly and easily installed wireless transmission system,
not requiring licensing.
[0552] The reduction of radio frequency congestion by reducing or
eliminating In-House radio transmissions.
[0553] The reduction of radio frequency congestion by reducing or
eliminating public carrier system paging, messaging, or control
channel radio transmissions.
[0554] The command, control, and operation, of radio units in areas
of high radio density, by utilizing optical means, thus resulting
in greater efficiency and less interference and interruption.
[0555] The delivery of messaging and paging services by optical
means, whilst an otherwise radio device is transmitting or
receiving radio traffic.
[0556] Additional radio frequency re-use in a coordinated and
controlled radio system.
[0557] The transceiving of user status information, messaging
traffic, and other data, to a radio device using optical means.
[0558] Greater top-security and privacy communications, through the
utilization of the optical means as a physically more-limited
distribution channel, for the delivery of changing encryption keys
and other security data and signaling, in various secure
communications schemes.
[0559] A more transparent operation of PBX systems and
equipment.
[0560] The operation of Public Address and audible paging systems
that minimize disturbance to others.
[0561] The operation of message paging and personnel/equipment
locating systems on military vessels so as to not be detectable by
enemy electronic surveillance measures.
[0562] The operation of message paging and personnel/equipment
locating systems on metal-constructed vessels, without the
interference, reflections, cancellations, echoes, or lapse in
coverage, that a radio-based system would otherwise suffer
from.
[0563] Accordingly, the reader will see that the combining of
optical-wave means of communications with radio-wave means of
communications results in a device that:
[0564] Is not much more expensive to manufacture than a radio-wave
only device.
[0565] Facilitates a private In-House communications system wherein
otherwise Public Carrier system-registered devices can be used.
[0566] Allows a user to utilize one communication device for two
systems of communication. For example, a user can operate their
portable cellular telephone on a private In-House (e.g. an
office-run) communications system, while still being accessible on
a Public Carrier (e.g. a telephone company-run) communications
system.
[0567] When used in a private system, facilitates the inexpensive
and therefore routine use of wireless communication devices as
management tools; encouraging managers to leave their office more
often to roam about their facility and become more involved in
day-to-day operations.
[0568] When used in a private system, facilitates rapid
notification of incoming pages, messages, waiting phone calls, and
equipment or production status.
[0569] Facilitates the command, control, and operation, of radio
units in areas of high radio density with less interference and
interruption.
[0570] Facilitates utilizing optical control means verses radio
control means for the locating of radio units within a building or
other structure or facility; with an accuracy better than that of
other techniques already existing, and at a lower cost than the
other less-accurate techniques.
[0571] Facilitates In-House messaging and communications that do
not require licensing from the FCC or other appropriate
governmental agency, and do not require the sharing of radio
frequency resources with other near-by system providers.
[0572] Facilitates greater privacy of secure communications, when
encryption techniques utilize both optical and radio means in the
encoding of communications.
[0573] Facilitates the wireless and cordless remote control and
operation of radio devices, or extended radio devices such as radio
consoles. In this way, a user can utilize an infrared remote
control device with his or her radio or console and be free to roam
about without being limited to the length of a cord.
[0574] Facilitates the ability of a paging device to acknowledge
reception of paging messages, and to report status and other
messages back to a central control system.
[0575] Facilitates delivery of messaging and paging services by
optical means, whilst an otherwise radio device is transmitting or
receiving radio traffic.
[0576] Although the descriptions above and herein contain many
specificities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope
of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of
the offered embodiments of the invention.
[0577] For example, the optical communications medium could be in
the visible spectrum or the infrared spectrum, or even the
ultra-violet spectrum, etc.; any apparatus that makes use of the
invention, may incorporate a filter or filters, or other means, so
as to limit the outputted light spectrum to one or more of the
visible spectrum, the infrared spectrum, or the ultra-violet
spectrum; or any apparatus that makes use of the invention, may
utilize an arc or discharge lamp that by design limits the
outputted light spectrum to one or more of the visible spectrum,
the infrared spectrum, or the ultra-violet spectrum. The described
optical windows can be of any shape or color, etc.; and the optical
communications pathway can be bidirectional, or from portable-unit
to base-stations, or from portable-unit to portable-unit
(peer-to-peer communications), etc.
[0578] The parameters sent or controlled over the optical means can
include (but should not be limited to,): system identification
(SID), mobile identification (MIN), transmitter power level,
transmit channel assignment, receiver channel assignment, signaling
tone assignment, SAT assignment, multiplex slot assignment, caller
ID codes, radio programming, system programming, encryption keys,
individual identification code, group identification code,
encryption key, frequency or channel selection, volume, squelch,
push-to-talk, site or repeater selection, continuously tone-coded
squelch system (CTCSS) tone selection, digitally-coded squelch
(DCS) code selection, transmitter selection, receiver selection,
and mute control.
[0579] The radio circuits utilized in the invention can be any
radio circuit, including but not limited to radio circuits used in:
standard one-way or two-way radio service, low-power (Part 15)
service, Point-to-Point Radio Services, International Cellular,
Domestic Public Cellular Radio Telecommunications Service, Personal
Communications Services, Specialized Mobile Radio, Trunked Mobile
Radio, Commercial Mobile Radio Service, Public Land Mobile Service,
Air-to-Ground Radio-Telephone Service, or any radio or service
presently, or in the past, or in the future, covered or defined in
FCC regulations or, in the case of other governments, its
equivalent; or any international system or service such as
Pan-European Digital Cellular Network (GSM) and European PCS; or
any radio used for digital transmission or reception, or any radio
used for ISDN services.
[0580] Furthermore, the radio circuits can utilize any modulation
scheme or schemes such as frequency modulation (FM), amplitude
modulation (AM), phase modulation (PM), pulse-coded modulation
(PCM), spread-spectrum, digital (TDMA, CDMA, etc.), analog, and so
forth.
[0581] For the purposes of further understanding the broadness of
the entire concept and embodiments or application of the invention
or inventions anticipated by the filing of this Provisional Patent
Application, I enclose examples of the devices, systems and methods
I consider my invention.
[0582] A. An apparatus and method comprising:
[0583] controlling means; and
[0584] a radio transceiver; and
[0585] one or a plurality of optical transceivers;
[0586] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers operating
in one or more of: the infrared spectrum, the visible spectrum,
and/or the ultraviolet spectrum; and
[0587] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers,
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of
analog signals, including audio signals, to and/or from one or a
plurality of remotely located optical transceivers; and/or
[0588] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers,
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of
optical data to and/or from one or a plurality of remotely located
optical transceivers.
[0589] B. The apparatus and method of A, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio receiver only.
[0590] C. The apparatus and method of A, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio transmitter only.
[0591] D. The apparatus and method of A, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio-telephone.
[0592] E. The apparatus and method of A, wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology.
[0593] F. The apparatus and method of A, wherein one or a plurality
of the operational parameters of said radio transceiver is
controlled and/or modified by data received by radio means;
and/or
[0594] in any way, the character and/or the behavior of said radio
transceiver is controlled and/or modified by data received by radio
means.
[0595] G. The apparatus and method of A, further including the
method of transmitting or re-transmitting, in whole or in part,
said optical data by said radio transceiver.
[0596] H. The apparatus and method of A, wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology; and
[0597] further including the method of transmitting or
re-transmitting, in whole or in part, said optical data by said
radio transceiver.
[0598] I. The apparatus and method of A, further incorporating one
or a plurality of display devices and/or one or a plurality of
switch and/or keyboard devices.
[0599] J. An apparatus and method comprising:
[0600] controlling means; and
[0601] a radio transceiver; and
[0602] one or a plurality of optical transceivers;
[0603] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers operating
in one or more of: the infrared spectrum, the visible spectrum,
and/or the ultraviolet spectrum; and
[0604] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of
analog signals, including audio signals, to and/or from one or a
plurality of remotely located optical transceivers; and/or
[0605] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of
optical data to and/or from one or a plurality of remotely located
optical transceivers;
[0606] said optical data controlling and/or modifying one or a
plurality of the operational parameters of, and/or the programming
of, said controlling means, and/or said radio transceiver, and/or
said apparatus; and/or
[0607] said optical data in any way modifying the character and/or
behavior of said controlling means, and/or said radio transceiver,
and/or said apparatus.
[0608] K. The apparatus and method of J, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio receiver only.
[0609] L. The apparatus and method of J, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio transmitter only.
[0610] M. The apparatus and method of J, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio-telephone.
[0611] N. The apparatus and method of J, wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology.
[0612] O. The apparatus and method of J, wherein one or a plurality
of the operational parameters of said radio transceiver is
controlled and/or modified by data received by radio means;
and/or
[0613] in any way, the character and/or the behavior of said radio
transceiver is controlled and/or modified by data received by radio
means.
[0614] P. The apparatus and method of J, further including the
method of transmitting or re-transmitting, in whole or in part,
said optical data by said radio transceiver.
[0615] Q. The apparatus and method of J, wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology; and
[0616] further including the method of transmitting or
re-transmitting, in whole or in part, said optical data by said
radio transceiver.
[0617] R. The apparatus and method of J, further incorporating one
or a plurality of display devices and/or one or a plurality of
switch and/or keyboard devices.
[0618] S. An apparatus and method comprising:
[0619] controlling means; and
[0620] a radio transceiver; and
[0621] one or a plurality of optical receivers;
[0622] said optical receiver or optical receivers operating in one
or more of: the infrared spectrum, the visible spectrum, and/or the
ultraviolet spectrum; and
[0623] said optical receiver or optical receivers facilitating the
free-space and/or atmospheric receiving of analog signals,
including audio signals, from one or a plurality of remotely
located optical transmitters and/or optical transceivers;
and/or
[0624] said optical receiver or optical receivers facilitating the
free-space and/or atmospheric receiving of optical data from one or
a plurality of remotely located optical transmitters and/or optical
transceivers;
[0625] said optical data controlling and/or modifying one or a
plurality of the operational parameters of, and/or the programming
of, said controlling means, and/or said radio transceiver, and/or
said apparatus; and/or
[0626] said optical data in any way modifying the character and/or
the behavior of said controlling means, and/or said radio
transceiver, and/or said apparatus.
[0627] T. The apparatus and method of S, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio receiver only.
[0628] U. The apparatus and method of S, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio transmitter only.
[0629] V. The apparatus and method of S, wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio-telephone.
[0630] W. The apparatus and method of S, wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology.
[0631] X. The apparatus and method of S, wherein one or a plurality
of the operational parameters of said radio transceiver is
controlled and/or modified by data received by radio means;
and/or
[0632] in any way, the character and/or the behavior of said radio
transceiver is controlled and/or modified by data received by radio
means.
[0633] Y. The apparatus and method of S, further including the
method of transmitting or re-transmitting, in whole or in part,
said optical data by said radio transceiver.
[0634] Z. The apparatus and method of S, wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology; and
[0635] further including the method of transmitting or
re-transmitting, in whole or in part, said optical data by said
radio transceiver.
[0636] AA. The apparatus and method of S, further incorporating one
or a plurality of display devices and/or one or a plurality of
switch and/or keyboard devices
[0637] BB. An apparatus and method comprising:
[0638] controlling means; and
[0639] a radio receiver; and
[0640] one or a plurality of optical receivers;
[0641] said optical receiver or optical receivers operating in one
or more of: the infrared spectrum, the visible spectrum, and/or the
ultraviolet spectrum;
[0642] said optical receiver or optical receivers facilitating the
free-space and/or atmospheric receiving of analog signals,
including audio signals, transmitted from one or a plurality of
remotely located optical transmitters or optical transceivers;
and/or
[0643] said optical receiver or optical receivers facilitating the
free-space and/or atmospheric receiving of optical data transmitted
from one or a plurality of remotely located optical transmitters or
optical transceivers;
[0644] said optical data controlling and/or modifying the internal
programming of, said controlling means and/or said radio receiver
and/or said apparatus.
[0645] CC. An apparatus and method comprising:
[0646] controlling means; and
[0647] a radio transceiver; and
[0648] one or a plurality of optical transmitters;
[0649] said optical transmitter or optical transmitters operating
in one or more of: the infrared spectrum, the visible spectrum,
and/or the ultraviolet spectrum;
[0650] said optical transmitter or optical transmitters
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transmission of data
and/or analog signals to one or a plurality of remotely located
optical receivers or optical transceivers.
[0651] DD. The apparatus and method of CC wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio receiver only.
[0652] EE. The apparatus and method of CC wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio transmitter only.
[0653] FF. The apparatus and method of CC wherein said radio
transceiver is a radio-telephone.
[0654] GG. The apparatus and method of CC wherein said radio
transceiver uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or pcs
radio-telephone technology.
[0655] HH. The apparatus and method of CC wherein one or a
plurality of the operational parameters of said radio transceiver
is controlled and/or modified by data received by radio means;
and/or
[0656] in any way, the character and/or the behavior of said radio
transceiver is controlled and/or modified by data received by radio
means.
[0657] II. The apparatus and method of CC, further incorporating
one or a plurality of display devices and/or one or a plurality of
switch and/or keyboard devices.
[0658] JJ. Any apparatus and any method comprising:
[0659] controlling means; and
[0660] one or a plurality of radio transceivers; and
[0661] one or a plurality of optical transceivers;
[0662] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of data
and/or analog signals to and/or from a remotely located optically
equipped device or optical transceiver, or to a plurality of
optically equipped devices and/or optical transceivers.
[0663] KK. The apparatus and method of JJ, wherein one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers is a radio receiver.
[0664] LL. The apparatus and method of JJ, wherein one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers is a radio transmitter.
[0665] MM. The apparatus and method of JJ, wherein one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers is a radio-telephone.
[0666] NN. The apparatus and method of JJ, wherein one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers uses cellular radio-telephone
technology and/or pcs radio-telephone technology.
[0667] OO. The apparatus and method of JJ, wherein one or a
plurality of the operational parameters of one or a plurality of
said radio transceivers is controlled and/or modified by data
received by radio means; and/or
[0668] in any way, the character and/or the behavior of one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers is controlled and/or modified
by data received by radio means.
[0669] PP. The apparatus and method of JJ, further including the
method of transmitting or re-transmitting, in whole or in part,
said optical data by one or a plurality of said radio
transceivers.
[0670] QQ. The apparatus and method of JJ, wherein one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers uses cellular radio-telephone
technology and/or pcs radio-telephone technology; and
[0671] further including the method of transmitting or
re-transmitting, in whole or in part, said optical data by one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers.
[0672] RR. The apparatus and method of JJ, further incorporating
one or a plurality of display devices and/or one or a plurality of
switch and/or keyboard devices.
[0673] SS. Any apparatus comprising:
[0674] controlling means; and
[0675] one or a plurality of radio transceivers; and
[0676] one or a plurality of free-space and/or atmospheric optical
transceivers.
[0677] TT. The apparatus of SS, wherein one or a plurality of said
radio transceivers is a radio receiver.
[0678] UU. The apparatus of SS, wherein one or a plurality of said
radio transceivers is a radio transmitter.
[0679] VV. The apparatus of SS, wherein one or a plurality of said
radio transceivers is a radio-telephone.
[0680] WW. The apparatus of SS, wherein one or a plurality of said
radio transceivers uses cellular radio-telephone technology and/or
pcs radio-telephone technology.
[0681] XX. The apparatus of SS, wherein one or a plurality of the
operational parameters of one or a plurality of said radio
transceivers is controlled and/or modified by data received by
radio means; and/or
[0682] in any way, the character and/or the behavior of one or a
plurality of said radio transceivers is controlled and/or modified
by data received by radio means.
[0683] YY. The apparatus of SS, further incorporating one or a
plurality of display devices and/or one or a plurality of switch
and/or keyboard devices.
[0684] ZZ. A remote controlled apparatus comprising:
[0685] controlling means; and
[0686] one or a plurality of radio transceivers, and/or one or a
plurality of remote control units controlling one or a plurality of
radio transceivers; and
[0687] one or a plurality of optical transceivers;
[0688] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of
analog signals, including audio signals, to and/or from a remotely
located optically equipped device or optical transceiver, or to a
plurality of optically equipped devices and/or optical
transceivers; and/or
[0689] said optical transceiver or optical transceivers
facilitating the free-space and/or atmospheric transceiving of
optical data to and/or from a remotely located optically equipped
device or optical transceiver, or to a plurality of optically
equipped devices and/or optical transceivers;
[0690] said optical data controlling one or a plurality of
operational parameters of said radio transceiver or radio
transceivers, and/or said remote control unit or remote control
units;
[0691] said operational parameters comprising an operational
parameter chosen from the group of parameters: individual
identification code, group identification code, encryption key,
frequency or channel selection, volume, squelch, push-to-talk, site
or repeater selection, continuously tone-coded squelch system tone
selection, digitally-coded squelch code selection, transmitter
selection, receiver selection, and mute control.
[0692] AAA Any apparatus or method comprising:
[0693] a controlling means; and
[0694] solar cell powered power supply; and
[0695] radio or optical means transmitter; and
[0696] housing;
[0697] said housing so designed as to be clipped-on to, or over a
fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise to be mounted in the near
proximity of a fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise mounted on a
wall or other surface; and
[0698] said apparatus designed to be powered by light energy
received from a fluorescent or other lamp bulb installed in a
lighting fixture, and/or light from the sun; and
[0699] said power supply having means for storage of operating
energy; and
[0700] said optical or radio transmitting means facilitating the
transmission of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
modulating the frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the
output of the said transmitting means.
[0701] BBB. The apparatus or method of AAA, wherein said data
transmitted is or includes one or more of serial number, location
data or messages, communications or computer or digital device
control data or messages, communications or computer or digital
device messaging data, local radio communications system data or
control messages or other operating data or messaging, public
carrier generated radio communications system data or control
messages or other operating data or messaging, local or wide-area
generated paging information, positioning or location correction
factors, messages compatible with the data format or output of or
operations of existing satellite positioning systems or other
positioning systems or services, any distributed control system or
service data, or any internally or externally generated or derived
data.
[0702] CCC. The apparatus or method of AAA, wherein said modulation
is one or more of, or a variation of one or more of, frequency
modulation, phase modulation, amplitude modulation, frequency-shift
keying modulation, phase-shift keying modulation, differential
phase-shift keying modulation, quadrature phase-shift keying
modulation, m-ary phase-shift keying modulation, amplitude shift
keying, quadrature amplitude modulation, pulse coded modulation,
differential pulse code modulation, delta modulation,
single-sideband modulation, double-sideband suppressed-carrier
modulation, quadrature-carrier modulation, vestigial sideband
modulation, minimum-shift modulation; or any other modulating
method.
[0703]
[0704] DDD. Any apparatus comprising:
[0705] a controlling means; and
[0706] solar cell powered power supply; and
[0707] radio or optical means transmitter; and
[0708] housing;
[0709] said housing so designed as to be clipped-on to, or over a
fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise to be mounted in the near
proximity of a fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise mounted on a
wall or other surface; and
[0710] said controlling means further comprising a data input means
or method for programming or otherwise communicating with said
controlling means, or altering the behavior of said controlling
means, or for storing data messages too be utilized by the
controlling means; and
[0711] said apparatus designed to be powered by light energy
received from a fluorescent or other lamp bulb installed in a
lighting fixture, and/or light from the sun; and
[0712] said power supply having means for storage of operating
energy; and
[0713] said optical or radio transmitting means facilitating the
transmission of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
modulating the frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the
output of the said transmitting means.
[0714] EEE. The apparatus or method of DDD, wherein said data
transmitted is or includes one or more of serial number, location
data or messages, communications or computer or digital device
control data or messages, communications or computer or digital
device messaging data, local radio communications system data or
control messages or other operating data or messaging, public
carrier generated radio communications system data or control
messages or other operating data or messaging, local or wide-area
generated paging information, positioning or location correction
factors, messages compatible with the data format or output of or
operations of existing satellite positioning systems or other
positioning systems or services, any distributed control system or
service data, or any other internally or externally generated or
derived data.
[0715] FFF. The apparatus or method of DDD, wherein said modulation
is one or more of, or a variation of one or more of, frequency
modulation, phase modulation, amplitude modulation, frequency-shift
keying modulation, phase-shift keying modulation, differential
phase-shift keying modulation, quadrature phase-shift keying
modulation, m-ary phase-shift keying modulation, amplitude shift
keying, quadrature amplitude modulation, pulse coded modulation,
differential pulse code modulation, delta modulation,
single-sideband modulation, double-sideband suppressed-carrier
modulation, quadrature-carrier modulation, vestigial sideband
modulation, minimum-shift modulation; or any other modulating
method.
[0716] GGG. The apparatus or method of DDD, wherein said means of
data input means or method includes one or more of serial data
port, parallel data port, network interface data port, twisted-pair
wireline data port, coaxial data port, radio receiver, radio
transceiver, common carrier radio receiver or transceiver,
power-line carrier receiver, power-line carrier transceiver,
encoded power-line signaling, multiplexed data port, fiber optic
port, optical data port, or infrared data port.
[0717] HHH. The apparatus or method of DDD, wherein said data input
means or method includes modulating the light from the light source
used to power the apparatus.
[0718] III. Any apparatus comprising:
[0719] a controlling means; and
[0720] solar cell powered power supply; and
[0721] optical or radio transmitting means; and
[0722] radio receiving means; and
[0723] housing;
[0724] said housing so designed as to be clipped-on to, or over a
fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise to be mounted in the near
proximity of a fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise mounted on a
wall or other surface; and
[0725] said apparatus designed to be powered by light energy
received from a fluorescent or other lamp bulb installed in a
lighting fixture, and/or from light from the sun; and
[0726] said power supply having means for storage of operating
energy; and
[0727] said optical or radio transmitting means facilitating the
transmission of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
modulating the frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the
output of the said transmitting means; and
[0728] said radio receiving means facilitating the reception of
digital or analog signaling or data, by means of demodulating the
frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the input of the said
receiving means.
[0729] JJJ. The apparatus or method of III, wherein said data
transmitted is or includes one or more of serial number, location
data or messages, communications or computer or digital device
control data or messages, communications or computer or digital
device messaging data, local radio communications system data or
control messages or other operating data or messaging, public
carrier generated radio communications system data or control
messages or other operating data or messaging, local or wide-area
generated paging information, positioning or location correction
factors, messages compatible with the data format or output of or
operations of existing satellite positioning systems or other
positioning systems or services, any distributed control system or
service data, or any internally or externally generated or derived
data.
[0730] KKK. The apparatus or method of III, wherein said modulation
and/or demodulation is one or more of, or a variation of one or
more of, frequency modulation, phase modulation, amplitude
modulation, frequency-shift keying modulation, phase-shift keying
modulation, differential phase-shift keying modulation, quadrature
phase-shift keying modulation, m-ary phase-shift keying modulation,
amplitude shift keying, quadrature amplitude modulation, pulse
coded modulation, differential pulse code modulation, delta
modulation, single-sideband modulation, double-sideband
suppressed-carrier modulation, quadrature-carrier modulation,
vestigial sideband modulation, minimum-shift modulation; or any
other modulating method.
[0731] LLL. Any apparatus comprising:
[0732] a controlling means; and
[0733] solar cell powered power supply; and
[0734] radio transmitter; and
[0735] radio receiver; and
[0736] housing;
[0737] said housing so designed as to be clipped-on to, or over a
fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise to be mounted in the near
proximity of a fluorescent or other lamp, or otherwise mounted on a
wall or other surface; and
[0738] said controlling means further comprising a data input means
or method for programming or otherwise communicating with said
controlling means, or altering the behavior of said controlling
means, or for storing data messages too be utilized by the
controlling means; and
[0739] said apparatus designed to be powered by light energy
received from a fluorescent or other lamp bulb installed in a
lighting fixture, and/or light from the sun; and
[0740] said power supply having means for storage of operating
energy; and
[0741] said optical or radio transmitting means facilitating the
transmission of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
modulating the frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the
output of the said transmitting means; and
[0742] said optical or radio receiving means facilitating the
reception of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
demodulating the frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the
input of the said receiving means.
[0743] MMM. The apparatus or method of LLL, wherein said data
transmitted is or includes one or more of serial number, location
data or messages, communications or computer or digital device
control data or messages, communications or computer or digital
device messaging data, local radio communications system data or
control messages or other operating data or messaging, public
carrier generated radio communications system data or control
messages or other operating data or messaging, local or wide-area
generated paging information, positioning or location correction
factors, messages compatible with the data format or output of or
operations of existing satellite positioning systems or other
positioning systems or services, any distributed control system or
service data, or any other internally or externally generated or
derived data.
[0744] NNN. The apparatus or method of LLL, wherein said modulation
is one or more of, or a variation of one or more of, frequency
modulation, phase modulation, amplitude modulation, frequency-shift
keying modulation, phase-shift keying modulation, differential
phase-shift keying modulation, quadrature phase-shift keying
modulation, m-ary phase-shift keying modulation, amplitude shift
keying, quadrature amplitude modulation, pulse coded modulation,
differential pulse code modulation, delta modulation,
single-sideband modulation, double-sideband suppressed-carrier
modulation, quadrature-carrier modulation, vestigial sideband
modulation, minimum-shift modulation; or any other modulating
method.
[0745] OOO. The apparatus or method of LLL, wherein said means of
data input means or method includes one or more of serial data
port, parallel data port, network interface data port, twisted-pair
wireline data port, coaxial data port, radio receiver, radio
transceiver, common carrier radio receiver or transceiver,
power-line carrier receiver, power-line carrier transceiver,
encoded power-line signaling, multiplexed data port, fiber optic
port, optical data port, or infrared data port.
[0746] PPP. The apparatus or method of LLL, wherein said data input
means or method includes modulating the light from the light source
used to power the apparatus.
[0747] QQQ. The apparatus or method of LLL, further including
controlling means for transmitting or re-transmitting received
data.
[0748] RRR. Any location determining system, or data transmission
system, comprising:
[0749] A multiplicity of devices;
[0750] said devices comprising:
[0751] a controller; and
[0752] an optical-based transmitter;
[0753] said devices powered directly or indirectly by solar
cell.
[0754] SSS. Any location determining system, or data transmission
system, comprising:
[0755] A multiplicity of devices;
[0756] said devices comprising:
[0757] a controller; and
[0758] a radio-based transmitter;
[0759] said devices powered directly or indirectly by solar
cell.
[0760] TTT. Any location determining system, or data transceiving
system, comprising:
[0761] A multiplicity of devices;
[0762] said devices comprising:
[0763] a controller; and
[0764] an optical-based transmitter; and
[0765] a radio-based receiver;
[0766] said devices powered directly or indirectly by solar
cell.
[0767] UUU. Any location determining system, or data transceiving
system, comprising:
[0768] A multiplicity of devices;
[0769] said devices comprising:
[0770] a controller; and
[0771] a radio-based transmitter; and
[0772] a radio-based receiver;
[0773] said devices powered directly or indirectly by solar
cell.
[0774] VVV. Any apparatus or method comprising:
[0775] a controlling means; and
[0776] one or more solar cells; and
[0777] an optical or radio transmitter means; and
[0778] a housing so designed as to be clipped-on, or over, or
otherwise be mounted near or next to, a fluorescent lamp or other
lighting source, or to otherwise be mounted in direct or indirect
sunlight;
[0779] said controlling means further comprising a data input means
or method for programming or otherwise communicating with said
controlling means, or altering the behavior of said controlling
means, or for storing data messages too be utilized by the
controlling means; and
[0780] said apparatus designed to be powered by light energy
received from a fluorescent, or other lamp bulb, or light from the
sun; and
[0781] said power supply having means for storage of operating
energy; and
[0782] said optical or radio transmitting means facilitating the
transmission of digital or analog signaling or data, by means of
modulating the frequency and/or phase and/or amplitude of the
output of the said transmitting means; and
[0783] said optical or radio transmitting means facilitating the
limited area transmission of data or messages intended to be used
for the purposes of determining the geographic location of a person
or object by means of a compatible receiver, or for transmitting
data or information to a person or object by means of a compatible
receiver, said data or information including data or information
that is otherwise variant by geographic area or location of the
transmitter.
[0784] The application of the invention anticipates transmitting
data such as:
[0785] lamp or location serial number
[0786] location data or messages
[0787] control data or messages for computing or radio devices
[0788] local radio communications system data or control
messages
[0789] the re-transmission of public carrier generated radio
communications system data or control messages or other operating
data or messaging
[0790] local or wide-area generated paging information
[0791] positioning or location correction factors
[0792] messages compatible with the data format or output of or
operations of existing satellite positioning systems or other
positioning systems or services
[0793] any distributed control system or service data
[0794] any other internally or externally generated or derived
data.
[0795] The application of the invention anticipates transmitting
data by one or more of several optical modulation schemes,
including but not limited to, frequency modulation- based schemes,
phase modulation- based schemes, or amplitude modulation-based
schemes.
[0796] The application of the invention further anticipates the
receiving of data to be transmitted or used for programming the
apparatus, or for controlling the apparatus by both hardwired means
such as a serial data port, parallel data port, power-line carrier
receiver, power-line carrier transceiver, encoded power-line
signaling, or a wired network interface data port; or by wireless
means such as a radio receiver, radio transceiver, common carrier
radio receiver or transceiver, fiber optic port, optical data port,
or infrared data port.
[0797] The application of the invention further anticipates its use
in all types of lighting and lighting fixtures intended for use in
living areas, working areas, inside of buildings, outside of
buildings, in factories or plants, in single story as well as
high-rise buildings, and even in parks and on streets and
highways.
[0798] Further note, that the operation of the invention does not
in any way depend upon modulation scheme or carrier frequency, and
so application is anticipated to any and all data circuits and
optical circuits without restriction. Also note that any
combination of the number and type of optical receivers can be
utilized with the invention.
[0799] Finally, note that within the specifications, the word "or"
is used both exclusively and inclusively.
[0800] Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined
not only by the embodiments and examples illustrated, but also by
the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
* * * * *