U.S. patent application number 16/106899 was filed with the patent office on 2019-01-03 for resettable lighting system and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is LIFI Labs, Inc.. Invention is credited to Marc Alexander, Philip Anthony Bosua.
Application Number | 20190008025 16/106899 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53043210 |
Filed Date | 2019-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190008025 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Alexander; Marc ; et
al. |
January 3, 2019 |
RESETTABLE LIGHTING SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
A lighting system, including: light emitting elements; a reset
switch operable in a first and second state; non-volatile reset
memory configured to record the state of the reset switch when
power is provided to the system; a wireless communication system;
non-volatile communication memory configured to store default
settings and configuration settings; a control system operable, in
response to initial power provision to the control system, between:
a configured mode when an instantaneous reset switch state matches
the recorded state, the configured mode including: connecting the
wireless communication system to a remote device based on the
configuration settings, receiving instructions from the remote
device, and controlling light emitting element operation based on
the instructions; and a reset mode when the instantaneous reset
switch state differs from the recorded state, the reset mode
including: erasing the configuration settings from the
communication memory and operating the system based on the default
settings.
Inventors: |
Alexander; Marc; (San
Francisco, CA) ; Bosua; Philip Anthony; (Selby,
AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LIFI Labs, Inc. |
San Francisco |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53043210 |
Appl. No.: |
16/106899 |
Filed: |
August 21, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15884213 |
Jan 30, 2018 |
10085331 |
|
|
16106899 |
|
|
|
|
14933878 |
Nov 5, 2015 |
9936566 |
|
|
15884213 |
|
|
|
|
14542312 |
Nov 14, 2014 |
9210779 |
|
|
14933878 |
|
|
|
|
61904101 |
Nov 14, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H05B 47/19 20200101;
H05B 47/175 20200101; H05B 45/60 20200101; H05B 45/00 20200101 |
International
Class: |
H05B 37/02 20060101
H05B037/02; H05B 33/08 20060101 H05B033/08 |
Claims
1. A method for power-independent lighting system reset, the
lighting system including a computing system, nonvolatile
communication memory, and non-volatile reset memory, the method
comprising: receiving power at the computing system from an
external power source; while power is being received from the
external power source: receiving a set of configuration settings
for a first remote device from a second remote device different
from the first remote device; storing a set of configuration
settings in non-volatile communication memory; and storing a first
instantaneous reset switch state in non-volatile reset memory;
detecting termination of power supply from the external power
source to the computing system and non-volatile reset memory;
storing the first instantaneous reset switch state in the
non-volatile reset memory while the non-volatile reset memory is
unpowered; detecting power supply from the external power source to
the computing system after power supply termination; interrogating
the reset memory for the stored reset switch state in response to
power supply from the external power source to the computing system
after power supply termination; determining a second instantaneous
reset switch state in response to power supply from the external
power source to the computing system after power supply
termination; comparing the stored reset switch state and the second
instantaneous reset switch state in response to power supply from
the external power source to the computing system after power
supply termination; determining that the stored reset switch state
matches the second reset switch state; in response to the stored
reset switch state matching the second instantaneous reset switch
state: connecting the computing system to the first remote device
based on the set of configuration settings; controlling lighting
system operation with the computing system based on instructions
received from the first remote device; and storing the second
instantaneous reset switch state in non-volatile reset memory;
determining that the stored reset switch state differs from the
second reset switch state; and in response to the stored reset
switch state differing from the second instantaneous reset switch
state: erasing the set of configuration settings from the
communication memory; and initiating an initiation routine.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/884,213, filed 30 Jan. 2018, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/933,878, filed
5 Nov. 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 14/542,312, filed 14 Nov. 2014, which claims the benefit
of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/904,101 filed 14 Nov. 2013,
which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates generally to the lighting systems
field, and more specifically to a new and useful resettable
lighting system in the lighting systems field.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0003] FIG. 1 is a flowchart diagram of the method of resetting a
connected system.
[0004] FIG. 2 is a flowchart diagram of a first variation of the
method.
[0005] FIG. 3 is a flowchart diagram of a second variation of the
method.
[0006] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a first variation of
the connected system.
[0007] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a second variation
of the connected system.
[0008] FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a lighting system
interaction with an external power source, a primary remote device,
and a secondary remote device.
[0009] FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of a variation of the
connected system installed in a recessed lighting fixture.
[0010] FIG. 8 is a cutaway view of an example of the lighting
system.
[0011] FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of a first recorded
power pattern 236' substantially matching a power feature
pattern.
[0012] FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a mismatch between
a second recorded power pattern 236'' and a power feature
pattern.
[0013] FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of a first example of
the method, including initiating a configuration routine in
response to detection of reset switch toggling.
[0014] FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of a second example of
the method, including operating the connected system based on the
configuration settings and operating the connected system based on
operating instructions received from a remote device.
[0015] FIG. 13 is a schematic representation of a first, second,
and third example of operating the connected system based on a
pattern of external power provision, respectively.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0016] The following description of the preferred embodiments of
the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these
preferred embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in
the art to make and use this invention.
1. System.
[0017] As shown in FIG. 4, a connected system 100 capable of being
reset without continuous power supply includes a reset switch 200,
reset memory 220 connected to the reset switch 200, configuration
memory 300, and a control system 400. The connected system 100 can
be a lighting system that additionally includes light emitting
elements 500, but can alternatively be any other suitable connected
device (e.g., appliance). In one variation, the lighting system is
substantially similar to the lighting system disclosed in U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/512,669, filed 13 Oct. 2014, incorporated
herein in its entirety by this reference. However, the lighting
system can be any other suitable lighting system. The lighting
system functions to provide light based on a set of operating
instructions received from a remote device, wherein the lighting
system can connect to the remote device using a set of
configuration settings stored by the lighting system. The connected
system 100 can additionally function as a communication transceiver
(e.g., a WiFi repeater), a notification system (e.g., during
emergencies), an immersive system (e.g., be responsive to an
audio/video system), or perform any other suitable
functionality.
[0018] The inventors have discovered that connected devices,
particularly connected appliances, require mechanisms to reboot
(e.g., hard or soft reboot) and/or entirely reconfigure (e.g.,
factory reset or master reset) the device. Rebooting mechanisms can
be required or desirable to troubleshoot the connected device,
switch operating systems used by the connected device, clear
corrupted or inadequately allocated memory, or for any other
suitable purpose. Rebooting the connected system 100 can include
closing all pending programs and finalizes the input and output
operations, or otherwise rebooting the system. Performing a master
reset on the connected system 100 can function to clear the
configuration settings of the device to the default settings (e.g.,
such that the user can regain access to the connected device),
remove a file or virus, clear memory space on the device, remove
personal information from the device (e.g., prior to secondary sale
or resale), remove data, settings, and/or applications on the
device, or otherwise erase all or most of the customized
information stored on the device. Resetting the connected system
100 can include erasing all information aside from the default
settings from the connected system 100, or otherwise resetting the
connected system 100.
[0019] A persistent reset mechanism (e.g., a reset mechanism that
does not need to be powered during the reset trigger event) can be
desirable in connected devices that are configured to be located in
difficult-to-reach places (e.g., connected to difficult-to-reach
power fixtures 40). This is due to the requirement that such
connected appliances typically need to be removed from the power
fixture 40 to access a reset switch 200 arranged along the device
body. This problem can be particularly relevant to connected
lighting systems (e.g., light bulbs), even more relevant to
lighting systems that are independently operable (e.g., do not rely
on a common hub), because lighting systems are not only difficult
to reach when installed in ceiling fixtures, but must also be
removed from the lighting fixture (e.g., particularly recessed
lighting fixtures) to expose the reset mechanism for use. Some
conventional reset mechanisms can be inadequate for such purposes,
because they require the reset system to be powered to detect the
reset trigger event (e.g., depression of a reset switch 200).
Removal of the lighting system from the lighting fixture
effectively disconnects the lighting system from power, which
prevents such conventional reset mechanisms from detecting the
trigger event and resetting the device. Thus, there is a need in
the connected lighting systems field to create a new and useful
powerless resettable lighting system. This invention provides such
new and useful powerless resettable lighting system.
[0020] In a first variation of the connected system 100, as shown
in FIG. 4, the connected system 100 includes a physical reset
switch 200, operable between a first and a second state, and
non-volatile reset memory 220 configured to record the reset switch
200 state prior to system powering off (e.g., prior to power
termination), and remember the reset switch 200 state while the
system is unpowered. When a master reset is desired, the user can
switch the reset switch 200 state to the opposing state. Upon the
system powering on (e.g., upon power receipt), the connected system
100 can compare the instantaneous reset switch 200 state with the
prior state stored by the reset memory 220. The system can initiate
a master reset in response to the instantaneous reset switch 200
state differing from the stored switch state. The system can
operate the system based on the stored configuration settings
(e.g., operate in a normal operation state) in response to the
instantaneous reset switch 200 state matching the stored switch
state.
[0021] In a second variation of the connected system 100, the
connected system 100 operates in substantially the same manner as
the first variation, and can additionally include rebooting the
system in response to determination that the reset switch 200 state
has been toggled (e.g., changed) while the connected system 100 is
powered (e.g., while power is being supplied to the connected
system 100).
[0022] In a third variation of the connected system 100, as shown
in FIG. 5, the connected system 100 includes a toggle detector 230
configured to monitor patterns of power supplied to the connected
system 100 (e.g., power cycling pattern). This variation can be
particularly relevant to connected systems 100 coupled to power
fixtures 40, wherein the power fixtures 40 are intermittently
connected to a power grid based on the position of a power switch
50 (e.g., wall switch). The power supply patterns detected by the
connected system 100 can be established by a user toggling the
power switch 50 or generated in any other suitable manner. The
connected system 100 can automatically initiate a master reset in
response to detection of a first power supply pattern. The
connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
automatically initiate a reboot in response to detection of a
second power supply pattern, different from the first power supply
pattern. The connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
operate in a different operation mode (e.g., control the light
emitting elements 500 to emit light having a different set of light
parameters) in response to detection of a third power supply
pattern, different from the first and/or second power supply
patterns. This variation can function to simultaneously reset a
plurality of connected systems 100 (e.g., all connected systems 100
whose power supply is controlled by the same power switch 50).
However, the connected system 100 can include any other suitable
reset mechanism and be reset, rebooted, or otherwise configured in
any other suitable manner.
[0023] The connected system 100 can be used with a power fixture,
which functions to provide external power 32 to the connected
system 100, an example of which is shown in FIG. 6. The power
fixture 40 can be a light fixture, such as a recessed light fixture
(e.g., as shown in FIG. 7), surface-mounted light fixture, or any
other suitable light fixture. More preferably, the power fixture 40
is a lightbulb socket (e.g., a conventional lightbulb socket), such
as an Edison screw socket, bayonet socket bi-post socket, or any
other suitable socket. However, the power fixture 40 can be a power
outlet, such as a USB port or a socket (e.g., a NEMA connector
socket), or be any other suitable power supply mechanism
connectable to an external power source 30, such as a power grid or
power system (e.g., generator system, solar powered system, etc.).
The power fixture 40 can supply power to the connected system 100
when power is supplied to the power fixture 40, and does not supply
power to the connected system 100 when the power fixture 40 is
unpowered or disconnected from the external power source 30.
However, the power fixture 40 can selectively control power
provision to the connected system 100, or operate in any other
suitable manner.
[0024] The power fixture 40 can be electrically connected to a
power switch 50 that functions to control power supply from the
external power source 30 to the power fixture 40. The power switch
50 can be operable between a closed position, wherein power is
supplied to the power fixture 40, and an open position, wherein
power supply to the power fixture 40 is terminated. The power
fixture 40 can be electrically connected to the external power
source 30 when the power switch 50 is in the closed position, and
can be electrically disconnected from the external power source 30
when the power switch 50 is in the open position. However, the
power fixture 40 can be otherwise selectively powered, unpowered,
connected, or disconnected from the external power source 30.
[0025] The connected system 100 can be used with a primary remote
device 10 that functions to communicate information to and/or from
the connected system 100. The primary remote device 10 can be
associated with one or more identifiers. The identifiers can be
unique identifiers (e.g., IP addresses), non-unique identifiers
(e.g., user-set names), or be any other suitable identifier. The
primary remote device 10 can be associated with one or more
credentials, wherein the credentials can be associated with one or
more identifiers associated with the primary remote device 10. The
credentials can include a password, encryption key (e.g., public
and/or private), or any other suitable set of credentials. The
primary remote device 10 can be simultaneously connected to one or
more connected systems 100, wherein each connected system 100 can
store an identifier and/or set of credentials associated with the
primary remote device 10 in the customized configuration settings.
Additionally or alternatively, a connected system 100 can connect
one or more primary remote devices 10 (e.g., wherein the connected
system 100 can function as a network hub or repeater). The primary
remote device 10 is preferably a networking device, such as a
router (e.g., a wireless router), but can alternatively be a mobile
device (e.g., a smart phone, tablet, laptop, computer, etc.), a
second connected system 100, or be any other suitable device remote
(e.g., physically disconnected from) the connected system 100.
[0026] The connected system 100 can be used with a secondary remote
device 10 that functions to communicate information to and/or from
the connected system 100. The information can include operation
instructions, primary remote device 10 connection information
(e.g., identifiers and/or credentials), or any other suitable
information. The secondary remote device 10 can communicate
information directly to the connected system 100, communicate
information indirectly to the connected system 100 (e.g., through
the primary remote device 10), or be connected to the connected
system 100 in any other suitable manner. The secondary remote
device 10 can be associated with one or more identifiers, such as
social networking system identifiers (e.g., usernames), device
identifiers, cellular service identifiers (e.g., phone number),
connection identifiers (e.g., IP address), or any other suitable
identifiers. The connected system 100 can store the identifiers in
the customized configuration settings, wherein connected system 100
control can be selectively permitted to secondary remote devices 10
having associated identifiers stored by the connected system 100.
However, the connected system 100 identifiers can be utilized in
any other suitable manner. The secondary remote device 10 can
additionally or alternatively be associated with a set of
credentials, wherein the credentials can be used by the connected
system 100 to connect to the secondary remote device 10.
Alternatively, the secondary remote device 10 can store a set of
credentials associated with the connected system 100, wherein
connected system 100 control can be limited to secondary remote
devices 10 storing the connected system 100 credentials. However,
the secondary remote device 10 can store or be associated with any
other suitable information. The secondary remote device 10 is
preferably a mobile device (e.g., a smart phone, tablet, laptop,
computer, etc.), but can alternatively be a networking device, such
as a router (e.g., a wireless router), a second connected system
100, or be any other suitable device remote (e.g., physically
disconnected from) the connected system 100.
[0027] The reset switch 200 of the connected system 100 functions
to record a user action indicative of a desire to reset or reboot
the connected system 100. The reset switch 200 is preferably a
physical switch, but can alternatively be an electrical switch or
digital switch. The reset switch 200 is preferably operable between
a first and a second state (e.g., an open and closed state,
respectively), but can alternatively be operable in any other
suitable number of states. The switch is preferably a toggle-type
or non-momentary switch (e.g., a flip switch for continuous "on" or
"off"), but can alternatively be a momentary-type switch (e.g.,
push for "on" or push for "off") or any other suitable switch. The
switch can include a set of contacts actuated by an actuator. The
actuator can be a toggle, a rocker, a rotary linkage, a
push-button, or any other suitable mechanical linkage. The switch
can be non-biased or biased. However, the reset switch 200 can be
any other suitable mechanical switch. Alternatively, the reset
switch 200 can be an electronic switch, such as a relay, analog
switch, power transistor, MOSFET, or any other suitable electronic
switch operable in at least a first and second mode. The reset
switch 200 is preferably a single pole, single throw switch (SPST
switch), but can alternatively be a single pole, double throw
switch (SPDT switch), double pole, single throw switch (DPST
switch), or have any other suitable contact arrangement. In one
variation, the reset switch 200 is a binary switch. In a second
variation, the reset switch 200 is operable in two or more modes.
However, the reset switch 200 can be any other suitable switch. The
reset switch 200 is preferably arranged on or accessible through
the system exterior, but can alternatively be arranged on or
accessible through the system interior, system end, or through any
other suitable portion of the system. The reset switch 200 can be
arranged along a longitudinal surface of the system, but can
alternatively be arranged along a perimeter of the system (e.g.,
along an edge of a casing proximal the active surface of the
connected system 100), an end of the system, or along any other
suitable surface. The reset switch 200 can be arranged such that
the switch actuates in a direction having a vector substantially
parallel to the system longitudinal axis, but can alternatively be
arranged such that the actuation axis is substantially
perpendicular to the system longitudinal axis or arranged in any
other suitable configuration.
[0028] The reset memory 220 of the connected system 100 functions
to record a state (position) of the reset switch 200. The reset
memory 220 preferably records the reset switch 200 state while the
connected system 100 or component thereof is powered (e.g., while
power is supplied to the connected system 100, light emitting
elements 500, control system 400, and/or reset memory 220), but can
additionally or alternatively record the reset switch 200 state
while the connected system 100 or component thereof is unpowered,
or record the reset switch 200 state at any other suitable time.
The reset memory 220 can record the reset switch 200 state in
response to detection of a change in the reset switch 200 state,
record the reset switch 200 state at a predetermined frequency,
record the reset switch 200 state in response to the occurrence of
a record event (e.g., power provision cessation, reset memory 220
interrogation, system initiation or startup, etc.), or record the
reset switch 200 state at any other suitable time. The reset memory
220 can record only the instantaneous reset switch 200 state,
record both the instantaneous reset switch 200 state and one or
more prior reset switch 200 states, record only the prior reset
switch 200 state, or record any suitable reset switch 200
state.
[0029] The reset memory 220 is preferably non-volatile and retains
its memory when power is turned off (e.g., when the reset memory
220 is unpowered), but can alternatively be volatile and maintain
data only for as long as power is maintained. In the latter
variation of the reset memory 220, the reset memory 220 can
additionally include a separate power source that functions to
supply power to the reset memory 220 when the remainder of the
connected system 100 is unpowered. Alternatively, the reset memory
220 can be powered by an on-board power source (e.g., the secondary
power source 900) when the connected system 100 is disconnected
from the external power source 30. Alternatively, the latter
variation of the reset memory 220 can be unpowered and lose any
stored information upon power provision cessation. Examples of
non-volatile reset memory 220 include flash memory, EEPROM, F-RAM,
and MRAM, and can additionally include organic memory, mechanically
addressed memory, or any other suitable non-volatile memory.
Alternatively, the reset memory 220 can include a CPU,
microprocessor, or any other suitable computing system. The reset
memory 220 is preferably read/write memory, but can alternatively
be read-only, write-only, or have any other suitable
characteristic. The reset memory 220 is preferably connected to the
reset switch 200, more preferably constantly connected to the reset
switch 200, but can alternatively be disconnected from the reset
switch 200, intermittently connected to the reset switch 200, or
otherwise connected to the reset switch 200. The reset memory 220
is preferably directly connected to the reset switch 200, but can
alternatively be indirectly connected to the reset switch 200
(e.g., through the control system 400) or otherwise connected to
the reset switch 200. The reset memory 220 can be connected to one
or more terminals of the reset switch 200. The reset memory 220 can
be connected to the control system 400, and/or to any other
suitable connected system component.
[0030] The configuration memory 300 of the connected system 100
functions to store configuration settings. The configuration
settings can include remote device identifiers, credentials
associated with the identifiers (e.g., one or more network
identifiers and associated passwords, secondary remote device 10
identifiers, etc.), user settings (e.g., preferred operation
parameter settings), user information (e.g., social networking
system account identifier and password), applications,
user-assigned identifier and/or credentials for the connected
system 100, or any other suitable information. The configuration
settings can be received from the primary remote device 10, the
secondary remote device 10, a tertiary remote device (e.g., a
server system associated with the connected system 100),
automatically generated (e.g., learned based on historical
settings), or otherwise determined. The configuration memory 300
can additionally store default settings (e.g., factory settings),
which can include the operating system, initialization sequence,
default connected system 100 identifier, default connected system
100 credentials, and/or any other suitable default information.
[0031] The configuration memory 300 is preferably separate and
distinct from the reset memory 220, but can alternatively be a
portion of the reset memory 220, be part of the same memory as the
reset memory 220, or be related to the reset memory 220 in any
other suitable manner. The configuration memory 300 is preferably
non-volatile memory, but can alternatively be volatile memory. In
the latter variation, the volatile configuration memory 300 can be
selectively powered in the manner discussed above for the volatile
reset memory 220, or can be powered in any other suitable manner.
The volatile configuration memory 300 is preferably powered
asynchronously of the volatile reset memory 220, but can
alternatively be concurrently powered with the volatile reset
memory 220. The volatile configuration memory 300 is preferably
powered with a separate power source from the volatile reset memory
220, but can alternatively be powered with the same power source as
the volatile reset memory 220. Examples of non-volatile
configuration memory 300 include flash memory, EEPROM, F-RAM, and
MRAM, and can additionally include organic memory, mechanically
addressed memory, or any other suitable non-volatile memory.
Alternatively, the configuration memory 300 can include a CPU,
microprocessor, or any other suitable computing system. The
configuration memory 300 is preferably read/write memory, but can
alternatively be read-only, write-only, or have any other suitable
characteristic. The configuration memory 300 is preferably
electrically connected to the control system 400, but can
alternatively or additionally be electrically connected to the
communication system 600, the reset memory 220, or any other
suitable connected system component.
[0032] The control system 400 of the connected system 100 functions
to control connected system 100 operation (e.g., connected system
component operation). The control system 400 can operate the
connected system 100 in a configured mode (normal mode), wherein
the connected system 100 is operated based on the configuration
settings. For example, the control system 400 can operate the light
emitting elements 500, the communication system 600, or any other
suitable connected system component based on the configuration
settings. In a specific example, when the connected system 100
includes a communication system 600, the control system 400 can
control the communication system 600 (e.g., wireless communication
system 600) to connect to a remote device based on the
configuration settings, can receive instructions from the remote
device through the communication system 600, and can control
operation of the light emitting elements 500 based on the
instructions. However, the control system 400 can operate the
connected system 100 in the normal mode in any other suitable
manner. The control system 400 can additionally or alternatively
operate the connected system 100 in a reset mode (configuration
mode), wherein the control system 400 erases stored configuration
settings from the configuration memory 300 and executes an
initialization routine or operates the connected system 100 based
on the default settings. The control system 400 can additionally or
alternatively operate the connected system 100 in any other
suitable mode. The control system 400 can additionally function to
select the operation mode. For example, the control system 400 can
select the configuration mode in response to the stored reset
switch 200 state differing from the instantaneous reset switch 200
state or in response to receipt of a power cycle substantially
matching a predetermined power cycling pattern, and otherwise
select the normal mode. The control system 400 can additionally
function to distribute or otherwise control power provision to
connected system components, detect whether external power is being
provided to the connected system 100, or perform any other suitable
functionalities. The control system 400 can be electrically
connected to the reset switch 200, the reset memory 220, the
configuration memory 300, the light emitting elements 500, the
communication system 600, and/or any other suitable connected
system component. The control system 400 can be one or more CPUs,
microprocessors, microcontrollers, or any other suitable set of
computing units.
[0033] The connected system 100 can be a lighting system and
include a set of light emitting elements 500. The light emitting
elements 500 function to emit light having properties (e.g.,
intensity, wavelength, saturation, color temperature, etc.)
determined by the control system 400. The lighting system can
include one or more light emitting elements 500. When multiple
light emitting elements 500 are included, the light emitting
elements 500 can be arranged in an array (e.g., rectangular array),
a circle, about a system perimeter, in concentric circles,
randomly, or distributed in any other suitable configuration. The
light emitting element can be a light emitting diode (LED), OLED,
an incandescent bulb, an RF diode, or any other suitable light
emitting element. Alternatively or additionally, the system can
include any other suitable EM wave emitter (e.g., electromagnet,
ultrasound emitter, etc.). The light emitting element can emit
visible light, RF, IR, UV, or light at any other suitable spectrum.
In one variation, the set of light emitting elements 500
cooperatively emit at least 500 lumens. However, the set of light
emitting elements 500 can cooperatively emit 750 lumens, 1,000
lumens, or any other suitable number of lumens. The system
preferably includes at least 10 light emitting elements 500 or
light emitting element clusters (e.g., each cluster including one
or more light emitting diodes configured to emit different
wavelengths of light), but can alternatively include a single light
emitting element or cluster, at least 30 light emitting elements
500 or clusters, or any other suitable number of light emitting
elements 500.
[0034] The connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
include a communication system 600, which functions to communicate
information between the control system 400 and a device. The
communication system 600 is preferably a wireless communication
system 600, wherein the device is a remote device (e.g., the
primary or secondary device), but can alternatively be a wired
communication system 600 (e.g., powerline communication, Ethernet
communication, etc.), wherein the device is a proximal or
physically connected device. The connected system 100 can include
one or more communication systems 600.
[0035] The wireless communication system 600 can be a transmitter,
a receiver, a transceiver, repeater, or any other suitable wireless
communication system 600. The wireless communication system 600 can
simultaneously be connected to one or more remote devices (e.g.,
one or more secondary and/or primary devices), be configured to
connect to a single remote device, or be configured to connect to
any other suitable number of devices. The wireless communication
system 600 can connect to the devices using the configuration
settings (e.g., using the credentials stored in the configuration
settings), default settings, or connect to the devices in any other
suitable manner. The wireless communication system 600 preferably
automatically connects to the remote device, but can alternatively
or additionally connect to the remote device in response to receipt
of a notification from a second remote device, detection of a
predetermined power cycling pattern, or in response to any other
suitable trigger event. Additionally or alternatively, the remote
device can connect to the wireless communication system 600 using
credentials broadcast by the wireless communication system 600,
credentials stored by the remote device (e.g., wherein the
credentials for the lighting system were set by a remote device),
or connect to the wireless communication system 600 in any other
suitable manner. The wireless communication system 600 can send
information to a targeted endpoint (e.g., a single device, a
specified set of devices), broadcast information, function as a
router or WLAN provider, or have any other suitable functionality.
The wireless communication system 600 can receive information from
a single endpoint, multiple endpoints (e.g., wherein the endpoints
are associated or unassociated with encryption keys or other
credentials), or from any other suitable information source. The
wireless communication system 600 can be a short-range
communication system 600 or long range communication system 600.
Examples of short-range communication systems 600 that can be used
include Bluetooth, BLE, RF, IR, and ultrasound, but any other
suitable communication system 600 can be included. Alternatively,
the light emitting elements 500 can function as the wireless
communication system 600, wherein information can be controlled
through light modulation or any other suitable methodology.
Examples of long-range communication systems 600 that can be used
include WiFi, cellular, and Zigbee, but any other suitable
communication system 600 can be included. The system can include
one or more communication systems 600.
[0036] The connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
include an external power connector 700 that functions to
electrically connect the connected system 100 to an external power
source 30. The external power connector 700 can be electrically
connected to the control system 400, the reset memory 220, the
configuration memory 300, the wireless communication system 600,
secondary power source 900, and/or any other suitable connected
system component. In one variation of the connected system 100, the
external power connector 700 is directly electrically connected to
the control system 400, wherein the control system 400 conditions
and/or distributes power to the remaining connected system
components. In another variation of the connected system 100, the
external power connector 700 is electrically connected to
individual connected system components. However, the connected
system 100 can be wired in any other suitable manner. The external
power connector 700 can be a lightbulb base (e.g., Edison screw
base, bayonet style base, bi-post connector, wedge base, lamp base,
etc.), a plug, socket, power connector (e.g., AC power plug, DC
connector, NEMA connector, etc.), or any other suitable form of
electrical connector. The external power connector 700 is
preferably arranged along the exterior of the connected system 100,
but can alternatively be recessed within the body of the connected
system 100. The external power connector 700 is preferably arranged
along an end of the connected system 100 (e.g., along an end distal
the light emitting elements 500 in a lighting system), but can
alternatively be arranged along a side of the connected system 100
or along any other suitable portion of the connected system
100.
[0037] The connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
include a connection indicator 800 that functions to detect
external power connector 700 connection with a power fixture 40, as
shown in FIG. 8. The connection indicator 800 can be operable
between a connected mode when the external power connector 700 is
connected to a power fixture 40 and a disconnected mode when the
external power connector 700 is disconnected from the power fixture
40, or can be operable between any other suitable set of modes. The
connection indicator 800 can be a physical switch (e.g., biased in
the open direction associated with the disconnected mode when
physically decoupled from the power fixture 40), electromagnetic
switch (e.g., a ferrous material or wire winding configured to
detect an applied electromagnetic field when the external power
connector 700 is connected to the power fixture 40, etc.), or be
any other suitable detection mechanism. The connection indicator
800 can be arranged proximal the external power connector 700,
along the external power connector 700 (e.g., along the side or end
of the external power connector 700), distal the external power
connector 700, or be arranged in any other suitable position.
[0038] The connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
include a secondary power source 900 that functions to provide
power to the connected system components. The secondary power
source 900 can additionally function to condition external power
for connected system components, supply power for standby operation
(e.g., power a battery management system when the connected system
100 is otherwise unpowered), or perform any other suitable
functionality. In a first variation, the secondary power source 900
provides power to the connected system components when the
connected system 100 is electrically connected to the external
power source 30. In a second variation, the secondary power source
900 provides power to all connected system components when power
from the external power source 30 has ceased (e.g., when the
connected system 100 is physically disconnected from the power
fixture 40, when power provision from the external power source 30
to the fixture is terminated, etc.). In a third variation, the
secondary power source 900 provides power to a select set of
connected system components (e.g., the reset memory 220) when power
from the external power source 30 has ceased (e.g., wherein the
secondary power source 900 is only connected to the select set of
connected system components or is connected to more than the select
set of connected system components). In a fourth variation, the
secondary power source 900 provides power to the connected system
components in response to the occurrence of a trigger event, such
as receipt of an emergency signal from a remote device,
determination that external power provision ceased but the power
switch 50 is in the open position, or any other suitable trigger
event. The secondary power source 900 can be electrically connected
to all connected system components, a subset of connected system
components, or any other suitable set of connected system
components. The secondary power source 900 is preferably
electrically connected to and charged by the external power
connector 700, but can alternatively be electrically disconnected
and/or substantially isolated from the external power connector
700. The secondary power source 900 can be substantially
permanently connected to the connected system components,
selectively connected to the connected system components, or
otherwise connected to the connected system components. The
connected system 100 can include one or more secondary power
sources 900, wherein multiple secondary power sources 900 can be
connected to the same connected system components or to different
connected system components. Alternatively, the connected system
100 can lack or exclude secondary power sources 900. The secondary
power source 900 can be a secondary (rechargeable) battery (e.g.,
having lithium chemistry, nickel chemistry, cadmium chemistry,
magnesium chemistry, platinum chemistry, etc.), a fuel cell system,
a solar cell system, a piezoelectric system, or any other suitable
source of power.
[0039] The connected system 100 can additionally or alternatively
include toggle detector 230 that functions to record (e.g., count)
a recorded power pattern 236 reflecting the number of times
external power provision to the connected system 100 has been
cycled (e.g., turned on and off, switched between high and low
power, etc.). The recorded power pattern 236 can be subsequently
analyzed in light of a set of stored power feature patterns 234,
wherein a connected system operation mode can be selected based on
whether the recorded power pattern 236 substantially matches a
power feature pattern 234. However, the recorded power pattern 236
can be otherwise used. The toggle detector 230 is preferably
electrically connected to the external power connector 700, but can
alternatively or additionally be electrically connected to the
control system 400 or any other suitable connected system
component. The recorded power pattern 236 is preferably recorded in
the reset memory, but can alternatively be recorded in any other
suitable memory. For example, a cycle count stored in the reset
memory 220 or any other suitable memory can be increased each time
the external power is provided to the system, each time the
external power is removed from the system, each time the external
power is provided then removed within a predetermined period of
time, or in response to any other suitable trigger event. The
recorded power pattern 236 can be stored with a timestamp (e.g.,
universal or relative) or stored without a timestamp. The recorded
power pattern 236 can be erased at a predetermined frequency (e.g.,
every 10 minutes), erased in response to the occurrence of an erase
event (e.g., execution of a configuration routine), be persistent,
or edited in any other suitable manner. In one variation, the
toggle detector 230 includes a winding connected to the external
power connector 700 or a transistor (e.g., MOSFET) connected
therebetween, a set of resistor voltage dividers, a rectifier
diode, and a filter capacitor. The diode can rectify the AC voltage
of the power from the external power connector 700, the resistor
voltage dividers can divide the rectified bias AC voltage, and the
capacitor can filter out voltage ripple. The diode, voltage
divider, and capacitor can cooperatively monitor whether bias AC
voltage is applied across the winding, wherein bias AC voltage will
be applied when external power is supplied to the external power
connector 700, and bias AC voltage will not be applied to the
winding when the external power connector 700 is unpowered. In a
second variation, the toggle detector 230 can include a rising edge
detector and/or falling edge detector connected to the external
power connector 700. However, the toggle detector 230 can include
any other suitable circuitry configured to determine when external
power is provided and/or removed from the connected system 100.
[0040] The connected system 100 can additionally include a set of
sensors 520 that function to measure ambient environment
parameters, system parameters, or any other suitable set of
parameters. Examples of parameters that can be measured include
ambient light (e.g., visible light, IR, etc.), ambient sound (e.g.,
audio, ultrasound, etc.), ambient temperature, ambient pressure,
geographic location, system temperature, system voltage, system
current, system operating time, system position, and system
acceleration, but any other suitable parameter can be measured. The
connected device can include one or more sensors or types of
sensors. The set of sensors 520 can include a light sensor (e.g.,
camera), sound sensor (e.g., microphone, ultrasound sensor),
accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS, or any other suitable sensor.
2. Method.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 1, the method of resetting the connected
system includes receiving power at the connected system from a
power source S100, detecting a reset trigger event S200, and
initiating a configuration routine in response to detection of the
reset trigger event S300. The method functions to reset the
connected system without receiving reset instructions from a remote
device. The method is preferably performed by the system 100
disclosed above, but can alternatively be performed by any other
suitable connected system.
[0042] In a first variation, examples of which are shown in FIGS. 2
and 11, the method includes receiving power at the connected system
from a power source S100, interrogating reset memory for a stored
reset switch state S220, determining an instantaneous reset switch
state S222, comparing the stored reset switch state with the
instantaneous reset switch state S224, operating the connected
system in the reset mode by initiating a configuration routine in
response to the stored reset switch state differing from the
instantaneous reset switch state S300, and operating the connected
system in the configured mode in response to the stored reset
switch state matching the instantaneous reset switch state S400. In
this variation, the method can detect the reset trigger event even
though the system is disconnected from power when the reset switch
state is switched. This can enable a user to trigger a master reset
of the system by removing the connected system from the power
fixture such that the system is unpowered by external power,
switching the reset switch state, reconnecting the connected system
to the power fixture, and supplying external power to the connected
system.
[0043] In a second variation, an example of which is shown in FIG.
3, the method includes receiving power at the connected system from
a power source S100, detecting a pattern of external power supply
to the connected system within a predetermined time period S240,
and operating the connected system in the reset mode by initiating
a configuration routine in response to the detected pattern
substantially matching a predetermined reset pattern S300, and
operating the connected system in the configured mode in response
to the stored reset switch state substantially differing from the
predetermined reset pattern S400. In this variation, the method can
enable the user to substantially simultaneously reset or reboot a
set of connected systems (e.g., one or more connected systems)
electrically connected to the same power circuit without physically
accessing each connected system. However, the method can include
any other suitable reboot or reset method.
[0044] Receiving power at the connected system S100 from a power
source functions to initiate trigger event monitoring. Receiving
power at the connected system can additionally function to provide
power to the connected system components. The power source is
preferably an external power source (e.g., a power grid or power
system), but can alternatively be an internal power source (e.g.,
the secondary power source) or any other suitable power source. In
variations of the method wherein the power is received from the
internal power source, the internal power source can power the
connected system components only when the connected system is
physically connected to an external power source, power the
connected system components irrespective of connected system
physical or electrical connection to the external power source, or
supply power to the connected system components at any other
suitable time. Receiving power can include detecting applied power
at the connected system. Detecting power at the connected system
can include determining that the current through a connection
system component exceeds a baseline current, determining that the
voltage across a connection system component exceeds a baseline
voltage, or sensing supplied power in any other suitable
manner.
[0045] Receiving power at the connected system from a power source
S100 can include detecting initial power receipt at the connected
system S110. Detecting initial power receipt can include detecting
the rising edge of a power curve with a rising edge detector.
Detecting initial power receipt can additionally or alternatively
include detecting a pattern of power termination then power supply.
Detecting power termination can include detecting a falling edge of
the power curve, determining that the current through a connection
system component falls below a current threshold, determining that
the voltage across a connection system component falls below a
baseline voltage, or determining power cessation or supplied power
drop in any other suitable manner. Detecting supplied power can
include detecting the rising edge of a power curve, determining
that the current through a connection system component exceeds a
baseline current, determining that the voltage across a connection
system component exceeds a baseline voltage, or determining
supplied power in any other suitable manner. However, initial power
receipt can be detected in any other suitable manner.
[0046] Receiving power at the connected system S100 can
additionally include detecting physical system connection to an
external power source. Detecting physical connected system
connection to an external power source can be used to determine
whether the secondary power source should be controlled to power
the connected system components, or be used in any other suitable
manner. For example, the secondary power source can be electrically
connected to the system components in response to physical
connected system connection to the external power source. In
another example, the secondary power source can be electrically
disconnected from the system components in response to physical
connected system connection to the external power source. However,
the physical system connection detection can be otherwise used.
[0047] Detecting physical system connection to an external power
source preferably includes detecting physical system connection to
a power fixture, but can alternatively include detecting external
power provision to the connected system or be detected in any other
suitable manner. In a first variation, detecting physical system
connection to an external power source includes detecting actuation
of the connection indicator (e.g., depression of a connection
indicator switch, etc.). In a second variation, detecting physical
system connection to an external power source includes detecting
completion or closure of a circuit that is open when the system is
disconnected from the power fixture, and closed when the system is
connected to the power fixture. However, physical system connection
to an external power source can be otherwise detected.
[0048] Receiving power at the connected system S100 can
additionally include detecting physical lighting system
disconnection from the external power source. Detecting physical
lighting system disconnection from an external power source can be
used to determine whether the secondary power source should be
controlled to power the connected system components, or be used in
any other suitable manner. For example, the secondary power source
can be electrically connected to the system components in response
to physical connected system disconnection from the external power
source. In another example, the secondary power source can be
electrically disconnected from the system components in response to
physical connected system disconnection from the external power
source. However, the physical system disconnection detection can be
otherwise used.
[0049] Detecting physical system disconnection from an external
power source preferably includes detecting physical system
disconnection from a power fixture, but can alternatively include
detecting cessation of external power provision to the connected
system, or be detected in any other suitable manner. In a first
variation, detecting physical system disconnection from an external
power source includes detecting actuation of the connection
indicator (e.g., depression of a connection indicator switch,
etc.). In a second variation, detecting physical system
disconnection from an external power source includes detecting the
opening or disconnection of a circuit that is closed when the
system is connected to the power fixture. However, physical system
disconnection from an external power source can be otherwise
detected.
[0050] Receiving power at the connected system S100 can
additionally include detecting termination of power supplied from
the power source S120. The power supply termination or
disconnection can be detected for a connected system component
(e.g., the reset memory, the configuration memory, the control
system, the communication system, etc.), a set of connected system
components, the entire connected system, or for any other suitable
combination of connected system components. The power source is
preferably the external power source, but can alternatively or
additionally be the secondary power source or any other suitable
power source.
[0051] Receiving power at the connected system S100 can
additionally include storing a reset switch state prior to power
supply termination in the reset memory S700, which functions to
store the reset switch state prior to system power down, such that
the reset switch state can be retrieved and compared after the
system is powered. The reset switch state is preferably determined
and initially stored when the connected system is powered, but can
alternatively be determined and/or stored when the connected system
is unpowered. In one example, the reset switch state can be
determined and stored only when external power is supplied to the
connected system. The reset switch state is preferably retained
(e.g., stored) while the reset memory and/or connected system is
unpowered, wherein the reset memory is preferably non-volatile
memory or be volatile memory including a power source, but can
alternatively be erased once the reset memory is unpowered. The
reset switch state can be stored in response to the occurrence of a
storage event or stored at any other suitable time. The storage
event can be the satisfaction of a predetermined period of time
(e.g., wherein the reset switch state is determined and/or stored
at a predetermined frequency), the comparison of the instantaneous
reset switch state and a prior switch state, a reset switch state
change, receipt of a state storage request, the execution of a
configuration routine, or be any other suitable storage event.
[0052] Detecting a reset trigger event S200 functions to identify
when the reset or reboot routine should be executed. The reset
trigger event is preferably detected by the control system, but can
alternatively be detected by a dedicated trigger event detection
module, or by any other suitable component.
[0053] In a first variation of the method, the reset trigger event
is the determination that a prior reset switch state is different
from the instantaneous switch state. The determination can be made
in response to detection of a reset switch state change (e.g., the
pulse received from reset switch, when the system is powered), in
response to a comparison between the instantaneous reset switch
state and a prior reset switch state stored in the reset memory
(e.g., wherein the prior reset switch state was stored a
predetermined period of time beforehand, stored before the system
was powered off then powered on, or stored at any other suitable
time), or determined in any other suitable manner. In this
variation, the method can include interrogating the reset memory
for the stored reset switch state S220, determining an
instantaneous reset switch state S222, and comparing the stored
reset switch state and the instantaneous reset switch state S224,
but can alternatively include any other suitable process.
[0054] Interrogating the reset memory for the stored reset switch
state S220 functions to determine the prior reset switch state. The
prior reset switch state can be the reset switch state before
initial power supply to the system was detected, the state that the
reset switch was in the last time the reset switch state was
checked, or be the reset switch state at any other suitable time.
The stored reset switch state is preferably retrieved or referenced
from the reset memory, but can alternatively be requested (e.g.,
received in response to a sent request) or otherwise determined.
The reset memory is preferably interrogated for the prior switch
state during system initiation (e.g., power up, in response to
initial power receipt, etc.), but can alternatively be interrogated
in response to power receipt, at a predetermined frequency, in
response to a storage trigger event, or interrogated at any other
suitable time. The reset memory is preferably interrogated by the
control system, but can alternatively be interrogated by any other
suitable component.
[0055] Determining an instantaneous reset switch state S222
functions to determine the current reset switch state for
comparison with the prior reset switch state. The instantaneous
reset switch state is preferably determined by the control system
(e.g., by interrogating the reset switch), but can alternatively be
determined by any other suitable system. The instantaneous reset
switch state is preferably determined from the reset switch, but
can alternatively be determined (e.g., retrieved or received) from
an intermediary reset switch system or from any other suitable
source. In one example, the instantaneous reset switch state can be
received from the reset memory, wherein the reset memory stores
both the last reset switch state (e.g., instantaneous reset switch
state) and the prior reset switch state. However, the instantaneous
reset switch state can be otherwise determined. The instantaneous
reset switch state is preferably determined during system
initiation (e.g., power up, in response to initial power receipt,
etc.), but can alternatively be determined in response to power
receipt, at a predetermined frequency, in response to a storage
trigger event, or determined at any other suitable time.
[0056] Comparing the stored reset switch state and the
instantaneous reset switch state S224 functions to determine
whether there was a change in the reset switch state. In
particular, comparing the prior and instantaneous reset switch
states can function to determine whether the reset switch was
toggled while the connected system was unpowered. The prior and
instantaneous reset switch states are preferably compared by the
control system, but can alternatively be compared by the reset
memory, reset switch system, or any other suitable system. The
prior and instantaneous reset switch states are preferably compared
during system initiation (e.g., power up, in response to initial
power receipt, etc.), but can alternatively be compared in response
to power receipt, at a predetermined frequency, in response to a
storage trigger event, or compared at any other suitable time.
Comparing the prior and instantaneous reset switch states can
include determining the difference between the prior and
instantaneous reset switch states, estimating, measuring, noting
the similarity or dissimilarity between the stored and
instantaneous states, or otherwise comparing the prior and
instantaneous reset switch states.
[0057] The comparison can additionally function to trigger
different routines. For example, a configuration routine can be
initialized in response to a mismatch between the prior and current
reset switch states, while a configured or normal routine can be
initialized in response to a match between the prior and current
reset switch states.
[0058] The comparison can be power transition dependent or
independent. In an example of the former, a master reset routine
can be initialized in response to a mismatch between the prior and
instantaneous reset switch states, wherein the prior and
instantaneous reset switch states bound an initial power provision
event, a restart routine can be initialized in response to mismatch
between the prior and instantaneous reset switch states, wherein
the prior and instantaneous reset switch states do not bound an
initial power provision event, and a configured or normal routine
can be initialized in response to a match between the prior and
current reset switch states. In an example of the latter, a master
reset routine can be initialized in response to a mismatch between
the prior and instantaneous reset switch states, irrespective of
whether the prior and current reset switch states bound an initial
power provision event, while a configured or normal routine can be
initialized in response to a match between the prior and current
reset switch states.
[0059] The comparison can be time- or history-independent, or be
time- or history-dependent. In an example of the former, the master
reset routine can be initialized each time the prior and current
reset switch states differ. In an example of the latter, the master
reset routine can be initialized when the prior and current reset
switch states differ, in addition to the prior reset switch state
remaining substantially constant for a predetermined period of time
(e.g., based on timestamps associated with the prior reset switch
state), while the master reset routine will not be initialized when
the prior and current reset switch states differ, but the prior
reset switch state had changed within the predetermined period of
time. In another example of the latter, the master reset routine
can be initialized in response to determination that the prior and
current reset switch states differ, and that an initial power
provision event occurred between the timestamps associated with the
prior and current reset switch states, respectively, while a
restart routine can be initialized in response to determination
that the prior and current reset switch states differ, but an
initial power provision event did not occur between the associated
timestamps. However, the comparison can trigger any other suitable
system operation.
[0060] In a second variation of the method, the reset trigger event
is the determination that a pattern of power provision to the
connected system substantially meets a predetermined reset pattern.
The power monitored for the pattern is preferably external power,
but can alternatively be internal power (e.g., supplied by the
secondary power source). For example, the system can determine that
a system on/off pattern substantially matches a predetermined
on/off pattern associated with a reset routine. The power provision
is preferably monitored while the connected system is substantially
continuously physically connected to the power fixture (e.g., the
connection indicator indicates that the connected system is
connected to the power fixture), but can alternatively be monitored
when the connected system is intermittently physically connected to
the power fixture (e.g., wherein the connected system is physically
removed from the power fixture in between consecutive power cycle
feature recordations), or monitored over any other suitable time
period. This variation can include recording power transition
events S242, analyzing the pattern of power transition events S244,
and performing one of a set of operations based on the power
transition event pattern S246, but can alternatively include any
other suitable process.
[0061] Recording the power transition events S242 functions to
monitor a feature of the power cycle (power feature pattern), and
can include increasing a counter in response to detection of a
rising or falling edge of a power curve, increasing a counter in
response to detection of applied voltage across the system or
current through the system, or monitoring the power transition
events in any other suitable manner. The power transition events
can be detected by the toggle detector, control system, or other
system. The power transition events can be recorded by the reset
memory, the control system, configuration memory, or any other
suitable memory.
[0062] Analyzing the pattern of power transition events S244 can
include comparing the recorded pattern with a predetermined
pattern, overlaying the recorded pattern over a predetermined
pattern, or otherwise analyzing the pattern of power transition
events. A recorded pattern preferably substantially matches a
predetermined pattern when the recorded pattern falls within a
predetermined percentage or standard deviation of the predetermined
pattern (e.g., an example of which is shown in FIG. 9), and does
not match the predetermined pattern when the recorded pattern
deviates beyond a threshold deviation from the predetermined
pattern (e.g., an example of which is shown in FIG. 10), but can
alternatively substantially match or not match the predetermined
pattern in any other suitable manner. The recorded pattern can be
analyzed for one or more predetermined patterns.
[0063] Performing one of a set of operations based on the power
transition event pattern S246 can include selecting an operation
from a set of predetermined operations based on the determined
pattern and controlling the system to execute the selected
operation, examples of which are shown in FIG. 13. The operation is
preferably selected and/or performed by the control system, but can
alternatively be selected and/or performed by any other suitable
component.
[0064] When the set of operations include multiple operations, a
different power transition event pattern is preferably associated
with each operation, wherein different power transition event
patterns preferably have different pattern parameters. Pattern
parameters can include the duration of the pattern (e.g., how long
the power transition events should be monitored for), a minimum,
maximum, average, or mean duration of time between each power
transition event (e.g., the duration that the external power should
be supplied, the duration that the external power should be shut
off, etc., such as a pattern including power provision for 30
seconds, power shutoff for 30 seconds, and power provision for 30
seconds), a power transition event frequency, a power transition
event amplitude (e.g., patterns in the voltage or current magnitude
supplied to the system), or include any other suitable parameter.
The patterns associated with each operation can be determined by a
manufacturer, received from a remote device (e.g., wherein the
pattern is associated by a user), received from the external power
source in response to receipt of a pattern association
notification, or determined in any other suitable manner.
[0065] In a first specific variation, the connected system records
a pattern of intermittent external power supply to the connected
system, compares the recorded pattern to a predetermined power
cycling pattern, and initializes the reset routine in response to
the recorded power provision pattern substantially matching the
predetermined power cycling pattern.
[0066] In a second specific variation, the connected system records
a pattern of intermittent external power supply to the connected
system. The control system initializes the reset routine in
response to the recorded pattern substantially matching a first
predetermined power cycling pattern, initializes a restart routine
in response to the recorded pattern substantially matching a second
predetermined power cycling pattern different from the first
predetermined power cycling pattern, and operates the connected
system in a different operation mode in response to the recorded
pattern substantially matching a second predetermined power cycling
pattern different from the first and second predetermined power
cycling patterns. In one example, the different operation mode can
be a different lighting scene wherein the light emitting elements
emit light having a different parameter from that previously
emitted.
[0067] In a third variation, the reset or reboot trigger event can
be the receipt of a notification (e.g., a reset notification,
reboot notification, etc.) or other communication from a remote
device. In a fourth variation, the reset or reboot trigger event
can be the detection of a signal received at a sensor. For example,
the trigger event can include detecting an audio pattern
substantially matching a predetermined audio pattern (e.g.,
received at a microphone), a sound pattern substantially matching a
predetermined sound pattern (e.g., received at a transducer or
other sound sensor), a vibration pattern substantially matching a
predetermined vibration pattern (e.g., a tapping or knocking
pattern on the connected system, received at a vibration sensor), a
light pattern substantially matching a predetermined light pattern,
or detection of any other suitable signal input associated with the
reset or reboot operation. In a fifth variation, the reset or
reboot trigger event can be the detection of an error in system
operation. However, the reset trigger event can be any other
suitable event indicative of a request to reset the system.
[0068] Initiating a reset routine (configuration routine) S300
functions to perform a master reset on the system. The reset
routine is preferably initiated and performed by the control
system, but can alternatively be initiated and/or performed by the
communication system or any other suitable component. The reset
routine is preferably initiated in response to trigger event
detection, but can alternatively be performed at any other suitable
time. Performing the reset routine can include erasing information
from the connected system and initiating an initializing routine.
Erasing information from the connected system can include erasing
all information on the device except the default settings, erasing
the configuration settings from the configuration memory, or
erasing any other suitable information from the system.
[0069] Performing the initializing routine functions to enable
device connection to the connected system. The initializing routine
is preferably performed by the control system, but can
alternatively be performed by any other suitable component. The
initializing routine can be automatically performed in response to
determination that the prior reset switch position differs from the
instantaneous reset switch position, in response to determination
that the power cycling pattern substantially matches a
predetermined pattern, performed as part of the configuration
routine, performed in response to determination that no
configuration settings are stored, performed in response to power
provision to the connected system after the configuration settings
have been erased, or be performed at any other suitable time.
Performing the initializing routine preferably includes operating
the system based on the default settings stored by the system, but
can alternatively or additionally include retrieving default
settings from a remote system (e.g., remote server system) and
operating the system based on the retrieved settings, or operating
the system in any other suitable manner.
[0070] In one variation, performing the initializing routine
includes broadcasting a default system identifier and/or
credentials, receiving a connection request from a remote device
(e.g., secondary remote device, such as a user device), wherein the
connection request can include the broadcast information (e.g.,
default system identifier and/or credentials), verifying the
received information, sending a connection verification to a remote
device, wherein the remote device can be the remote device from
which the connection request was received or a different remote
device, receiving a set of configuration settings, and storing the
set of configuration settings. The set of configuration settings
can include a set of remote device identifiers and respective
credentials, wherein the set of remote device identifiers and
respective credentials are preferably primary remote device
identifiers and credentials, but can alternatively be secondary
remote device identifiers, secondary remote device credentials,
secondary connected system identifiers, secondary connected system
credentials, and/or be any other suitable set of configuration
settings. The configuration settings are preferably received after
the connection verification is sent, wherein the remote device
receives the connection verification and prompts the user for
configuration setting entry. Alternatively, the remote device can
automatically determine the configuration settings (e.g., retrieve
the configuration settings from remote device memory) and send the
configuration settings to the connected system. However, the
configuration settings can be otherwise obtained.
[0071] Performing the initializing routine can additionally include
providing a visual or audio indicator to a user S320, which
functions to notify the user that the connected system is
undergoing an initializing routine. In one example, the visual
indicator can include controlling the light emitting elements to
display a reset notification sequence including predetermined light
pattern (e.g., red, green, blue, white). In a second example, the
audio indicator can include controlling a speaker to emit a
predetermined tone or set of tones. In a third example, the
connected system can broadcast a reset notification to remote
devices. However, the system can be initialized in any other
suitable manner.
[0072] The method can additionally include operating the connected
system based on the configuration settings S400, which functions to
operate the connected system based on user preferences. The
connected system is preferably operated based on the configuration
settings (e.g., in the normal mode) by the control system, but can
alternatively be performed by any other suitable component. The
connected system can be automatically operated based on the
configuration settings in response to determination that the
trigger event has not occurred, but can be operated based on the
configuration settings at any other suitable time. The connected
system can be operated based on the configuration settings in
response to determination that the prior reset switch position
substantially matches the instantaneous reset switch position, in
response to determination that the power cycling pattern differs
from a predetermined pattern, in response to determination that
configuration settings are stored by the connected system, in
response to power provision to the connected system, in response to
determination of a trigger event non-occurrence, or operated in the
normal mode at any other suitable time. Operating the connected
system based on the configuration settings can include operating
the connected system according to the configuration settings (e.g.,
operating the light emitting elements according to instructions or
parameter settings stored in the configuration settings), operating
the connected system using the configuration settings (e.g.,
connecting to a remote device using an identifier and credentials
stored in the configuration settings), or operating the connected
system based on the configuration settings in any other suitable
manner.
[0073] In one example, operating the lighting system based on the
configuration settings S400 can include retrieving operating
instructions from the configuration settings and controlling the
light emitting elements according to the operating
instructions.
[0074] In a second example, as shown in FIG. 12, operating the
lighting system based on the configuration settings S400 can
include connecting the connected system to a remote device (e.g.,
primary remote device or secondary remote device) using the
respective remote device identifier and credentials (e.g.,
encryption keys) stored in the configuration settings, receiving
operating instructions from the remote device S800, and controlling
system operation based on the operating instructions S900. This
method can be performed by the control system using the
communication system, or be performed by any other suitable
component. The connected system can simultaneously connect to a
single remote device, multiple remote devices, or any suitable
number of remote devices. Controlling system operation based on the
operating instructions can include controlling light emitting
element operation (e.g., controlling the emitted light parameters),
controlling communication system operation (e.g., controlling which
remote devices the system connects to, communication system
connection permissions, etc.), controlling data processing (e.g.,
controlling data compression, encryption, transmission channels,
endpoints, etc.), or controlling any other suitable aspect of
connected system operation based on the information received from
the remote device. A second set of configuration settings can
additionally or alternatively be received from the remote device,
wherein the second set of configuration settings can overwrite the
first set of configuration settings or be stored with the first set
of configuration settings.
[0075] In a first specific example, operating the lighting system
based on the configuration settings can include connecting the
connected system to a wireless router using credentials stored in
the configuration settings, receiving operation instructions from
one or more secondary remote devices connected to the network
supported by the wireless router, and controlling the set of light
emitting elements or any other suitable output based on the
operation instructions. The operation instructions can be directly
received from the secondary remote devices connected to the
network, or can be indirectly received from the secondary remote
devices connected to the network through the router. The operation
instructions can be sent by the secondary remote devices to the
primary remote device (the router) in association with a connected
system identifier identifying the connected system and/or with
connected system credentials associated with the connected system.
Alternatively, the operation instructions can be or sent to the
primary remote device without identifiers, credentials, or other
information associated with the connected system. The primary
remote device preferably sends the operation instructions to the
connected system identified by the connected system identifier or
associated with the connected system credentials, but can
alternatively broadcast the operation instructions to the set of
connected systems connected to the primary remote device, wherein
the connected system associated with the identifier or credentials
can receive and unpack the operation instructions, retrieve the
operation instructions from the source secondary remote device, or
otherwise obtain the operation instructions. However, the connected
system can be otherwise operated based on the configuration
settings.
[0076] The method can additionally include receiving the set of
configuration settings S500. The set of configuration settings are
preferably received and stored prior to system operation based on
the configuration settings, as part of the configuration routine or
initialization routine, but can alternatively be received at any
other suitable time. The configuration settings are preferably only
received when the connected system is powered (e.g., is receiving
external power, is powered by the internal power source, etc.), but
can alternatively or additionally be received when the connected
system is unpowered. The configuration settings are preferably
received from a remote device, but can alternatively be received
from a second connected device or from any other suitable source.
In one variation, the configuration settings are received from a
remote device different from the remote device to which the
configuration settings provide access. In one example, the
configuration settings can be a network identifier and password for
a router, and can be received from a user device different from the
router. Alternatively, the configuration settings can be received
from the same remote device to which the configuration settings
provide access. Alternatively, the configuration settings can be
received and stored in lieu of the default credentials for the
connected system. However, the configuration settings can be
received in any other suitable manner.
[0077] The method can additionally include storing the
configuration settings S600. The configuration settings are
preferably stored in configuration memory, more preferably
non-volatile configuration memory, but can alternatively be stored
in volatile configuration memory, the reset memory, a remote system
(e.g., a remote server system), or stored in any other suitable
storage system. The configuration settings are preferably retained
while the connected system is unpowered (e.g., when the connected
system is removed from external power), but can alternatively be
erased when the connected system is unpowered.
[0078] The method can additionally include storing default
settings. The default settings are preferably stored in
configuration memory, more preferably non-volatile configuration
memory, but can alternatively be stored in volatile configuration
memory, the reset memory, a remote system (e.g., a remote server
system), or stored in any other suitable storage system. The
default settings are preferably retained while the connected system
is unpowered (e.g., when the connected system is removed from
external power), but can alternatively be erased when the connected
system is unpowered. The default settings can include a default
identifier for the connected system, default credentials for the
connected system (e.g., default passwords, encryption keys, etc.),
default operation settings or parameters, the initialization
routine, the configuration routine, performance maps, operating
system, and/or any other suitable default operation. The default
settings are preferably determined and stored on the connected
system by a manufacturer, but can alternatively be determined
and/or stored by a user or by any other suitable entity.
[0079] In a first example of the controlling the system based on
the stored configuration settings, the method includes controlling
a wireless communication module to connect to a wireless router,
wherein the remote device comprises the wireless router; receiving
operating instructions from the wireless router at the wireless
communication module and/or control system, wherein the
instructions were received by the wireless router from a second
remote device different from the wireless router; and controlling
the operation parameters of a light emitting element based on the
operation instructions.
[0080] In a second example of the controlling the system based on
the stored configuration settings, the method includes receiving a
connection request form a secondary remote device including a set
of credentials, verifying the credentials with a set of credentials
stored in the configuration settings, permitting the secondary
remote device to connect to the communication system and/or control
system, receiving operation instructions from the connected
secondary remote device, and controlling the operation parameters
of a light emitting element based on the operation instructions.
However, the system can be otherwise controlled based on the stored
configuration settings.
[0081] An alternative embodiment preferably implements the above
methods in a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable
instructions. The instructions are preferably executed by
computer-executable components preferably integrated with a
lighting system. The lighting system can include a reset system
including a reset switch coupled to non-volatile reset memory
configured to record the reset switch state after an initialization
check has been performed in response to a lighting system power-on
event, non-volatile configuration memory configured to store
configuration settings received from a remote device and default
settings, a control system configured to perform an initialization
check in response to a lighting system power-on event, the
initialization checking including determining whether the reset
switch position is the same as the stored position, erasing the
stored configuration settings if the reset switch position is
different from the stored position, and operating the lighting
system based on the configuration settings if the reset switch
position is similar to or the same as the stored position. The
computer-readable medium can be stored on any suitable computer
readable media such as RAMs, ROMs, flash memory, EEPROMs, optical
devices (CD or DVD), hard drives, floppy drives, or any suitable
device. The computer-executable component is preferably a processor
but the instructions may alternatively or additionally be executed
by any suitable dedicated hardware device.
[0082] Although omitted for conciseness, the preferred embodiments
include every combination and permutation of the various system
components and the various method processes.
[0083] As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the
previous detailed description and from the figures and claims,
modifications and changes can be made to the preferred embodiments
of the invention without departing from the scope of this invention
defined in the following claims.
* * * * *