3. How it Works
The moment a Sensor Node detects occupancy, the luminaire responds by outputting a predetermined light level (for example 100%). It simultaneously communicates that it can ‘see’ someone to its neighboring luminaires using a level 1 proximity-limited infrared signal.
On receipt of this level 1 signal, neighboring Sensor Nodes know someone is located within one light fitting of them. They respond by outputting a predetermined light level depending upon their personality (e.g. 80% brightness), and simultaneously forward a level 2 signal to their own neighbors, informing them there is an occupant two light fitting away.
This communication propagates rapidly throughout the floor, creating the Occupancy Information Cloud. Each Sensor Node knows always how close the nearest occupant is and can adjust its light level accordingly.
The relationship between light levels and distance from the detected motion is determined by what we call the “Personality”. Different Personalities allow for gentler or more aggressive reduction in light levels as distance from motion increases, allowing users to experience their preferred lighting behavior for their building environment.
The result is comfortable lighting conditions surrounding all occupants, lower light levels in areas adjacent to them, but importantly no wasted lighting of unoccupied or naturally lit areas. Once an area becomes vacant, each light gently dims to a LowLight state until the system is sure that nobody remains in the area. After this time, the lights switch off completely.