GB2440784A

GB2440784A - A light patterning system

Info

Publication number: GB2440784A
Application number: GB0615664A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Peter James Bailey; Colin Probert; Ronald David Gregg
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-08-08
Filing date: 2006-08-08
Publication date: 2008-02-13
Also published as: GB0615664D0

Abstract

A light patterning system consisting of one or more transportable nodes, 7, which usually take the form of glow sticks or lights carried by individuals which may be caused to illuminate in a variety of different colours in response to command signals transmitted by a control system and/or by surrounding transportable nodes. The said control system may include a plurality of fixed nodes to act as signal repeaters, to form part of the said control system or to act as an independent control system.

Description

I

A Light Patterning System The present invention relates to light patterning systems and more particularly to light patterns created at public venues such as music concerts, nightclubs and dance halls in which individual participants carry a glow stick or other light in order that the spatial distribution of those glow sticks or lights carried by the individuals creates a remotely controlled aesthetically pleasing light pattern distribution.

The aesthetically pleasing effects of a wide spatial distribution of relatively small point lights, is appreciated. It is common at musical concerts for individuals to illuminate a cigarette lighter or mobile phone in order to 1 5 create these light points in a light patterning distribution or tapestry about the stage. More recently chemically activated glow sticks have been provided in a number of colours which, once activated, can be waved in order to again create aesthetically pleasing patterns in a crowd. These glow sticks, as indicated, operate by activating a chemical reaction in order to create a desired light emission glow.

Whether utilising mobile phones or lighters or glow sticks, it will be appreciated that the operator of the venue has little, if any, control over the pattern generated. In some respects this is one of the beauties of such light patterning and tapestries at concert venues, but there is a desire to have.

more control with respect to such light patterning and also enhance the sustainability and re-usability of the light emitting devices for long periods.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention there is provided a light patterning system comprising one or more co-ginator controllers and a plurality of nodes, the co-ordinator control providing a signal sequence for the plurality of nodes, the plurality of nodes having a receiver for the signal sequence and a light emitting device stimulated by the signal sequence to provide a desired illumination phase, the co-ordination control having a sequencer controlled to provide the signal sequence necessary to create, through the desired illumination phase for each light emitting device, an illumination pattern in the plurality of nodes spatially distributed relative to each other.

Generally, the sequencer is extrinsically controlled.

Typically, the light emitting device is a light emitting diode. More specifically, a plurality of light emitting diodes having different illumination colours.

Typically, the co-ordinator control comprises a radio frequency transmitter for a bit sequence transmission as the signal sequence.

Advantageously, the co-ordinator control incorporates a radio frequency receiver for extrinsic control of the sequencer and/or receiving signals from the respective nodes.

Advantageously, each node is individually addressable by a portion of the signa' sequence.

Generally, the nodes comprise at least one light emitting device array and a power supply. Generally, the light emitting device array provides at least a red and/or green andlor blue colour component for the desired illumination phase. Generally, the nodes are in the form of a stick or badge or wearable or transportable entity.

Possibly, the nodes have a self signal sequence for when not receiving the signal sequence from the co-ordinator device.

Potentially, the light emitting device has a variable intensity modulator to alter the intensity of the desired illumination phase. Normally, the variable intensity modulator is controlled by the signal sequence.

Possibly, at least one of the nodes provides a response signal to the co-ordinator device indicative of status.

Advantageously, at least one of the nodes has a neighbour signal capability to identify other nodes within radio range of that node.

Advantageously, the neighbour signal capability is used to provide a local signal sequence for a group of nodes to provide a local illumination pattern in the local group of nodes.

Possibly, the system incorporates fixed position nodes to provide a zonal signal sequence for a nearby group of nodes to provide a zonal illumination pattern in the nearby group of nodes.

Potentially, the fixed position nodes have a position determination capability which can identify nodes within radio range and their respective signal strengths. The position location capability is arranged to assess signal strength from the node and the position strength as determined by each fixed position node utilised by the position location capability to determine relative position of the node to the fixed position nodes. Possibly, the co-ordinator control utilises the node position to adjust the signal sequence. Possibly, the 25. neighbour signal capability uses the node position to alter the local signal sequence. Possibly, the fixed position node utilises the node position to alter the zonal signal sequence.

Possibly, the illumination pattern creates a ripple from a point within the spatial distribution of the plurality of nodes. Alternatively, the illumination pattern identifies a particular node within the spatial distribution of the plurality of nodes. Further alternatively, the illumination pattern provides groups of nodes with a particular colour or repeat sequence indicative of each particular group of nodes within the plurality of nodes.

Generally, in the case of a hand held device, the handle will urge correct orientation of the node to avoid shielding of the embedded antenna.

Embodiments of aspects of the present invention will now be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a light patterning system in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a co-ordinator control in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Fig. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a fixed node in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a node in accordance with aspects of the present invention; Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a node in accordance with aspects of the present invention incorporated in the form of a stick; Fig. 6 is an illustration of a byte message structure for a signal sequence in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and, Fig. 7 provides a schematic illustration of a wave or ripple effect with regard to nodes in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

As indicated above, light patterning is attractive in terms of creating an apparent spot light tapestry in an area around a concert stage or within a discotheque or dance hall. Generally, it is known to provide these spots of light through battery powered torches or lighters or mobile phones or more recently through use of chemically activated glow sticks. It will be understood that tens of thousands of point light sources can be utilised but previously it has been difficult to co-ordinate these light sources into desired patterns. By use of a radio controlled central co-ordinator control and individual nodes, aspects of the present invention allow creation of illumination patterns specifically to the requests of an extrinsic controller such as a disc jockey or rhythmic input from a music source. In such circumstances, dynamic or static 0 illumination patterns can be created in the form of concentric circles of light or ripples or wave effects radiating about a venue. As indicated, these illumination patterns can be automatically controlled through a music input or by direct intervention from an individual such as a disc jockey. In such circumstances each individual light source in the form of a node within the 1 5 system is generally addressable individually or as a group in order to create the desired effects beyond that of passive light sources such as chemically activated glow sticks. In addition to being in the form of wands or sticks, it will also be understood that the nodes may be attached to hats or badges or necklaces or other merchandise or entities generally carried or fixed within the venue.

In view of the above, it will be understood that light patterning systems in accordance with aspects of the present invention will at a base level comprise a co-ordinator control and a plurality of nodes in the form of transportable wands or badges etc., or fixed nodes attached and secured about the venue if required. Each of the nodes will incorporate a light emitting device and typically an array of such light emitting devices in the form of LEDs creating red, green and blue light emissions as required. The co-ordinator control will produce a signal sequence emitted as a radio frequency stream at an appropriate operating range, typically up to 20Dm but possibly adjustable to the size of the venue, e.g. a small music club in comparison with a large music festival site. The nodes will incorporate an integral antennae to receive the signal sequence in order that the light emitting device built into the node creates a desired illumination phase dependent upon the particular signal sequence instructions. In such circumstances, the colour of each individual node in terms of its illumination phase may change under specific extrinsic control from a DJ or association with the beat of the music rhythm.

Ideally, each node will have a unique identity in the form of a bit address such that the control co-ordinator through the signal sequence can individually operate each node at a desired illumination phase within the overall illumination pattern required within a venue. It will be understood that as the bulk of the nodes will be transportable, that is to say carried by individuals, there will be a spatial distribution of those nodes to create the desired illumination pattern. As individuals can move within a concert venue, as will be described later, it may be desirable to at least find a notional 1 5 position for certain nodes in order to create the desired illumination pattern or reference the pattern. In such circumstances, at least one node's location will be determined and it will be necessary to be able to individually control each node in order to create the pattern. It will also be understood as a further feature nodes, in accordance with aspects of the present invention, may be specifically operable by their particular individual, that is to say the individual may select a desired illumination phase in terms of cycling or flashes in colours to their own requirements or maybe automatically controlled through the co-ordinator control presenting a signal sequence to produce a desired illumination pattern in the plurality of nodes. It will be understood that where automatic control is required, presentation of the signal sequence may override manual control.

The light patterning system in accordance with aspects of the present invention will generally utilise a Regulatory Authority approved radio frequency or wireless communications system such as the 2.4 GHz wireless standard in order to create the communication coupling through the signal sequence between the co-ordinator control and the nodes. The 2.4 GHz wireless standard will provide a system capability of up to 65, 535 nodes per co-ordinator as it can possibly have more than one network using more than one co-ordinator.

In order to be convenient, it will be understood that the system will generally comprise a battery or at least self powered wireless nodes in order to generate the light emissions, whilst the co-ordinator control will normally utilise a hard wired mains power source in order to have the necessary power for transmission over the desired range. This power source may be either from an external power supply or from bus powered signals such as USB.

The nodes, as indicated, will generally be worn or carried and therefore small batteries would be convenient such that the nodes will have a relatively small power capacity which will be compensated by the extended transmit and receive range provided by* the co-ordinator control through the potential of 1 5 mains electrical power supply. It will also be understood that the co-ordinator control will be generally at a fixed position so replacement of batteries may be inconvenient.

By use of a signal sequence in the form of digital packets it will be understood that the control sequence and therefore the co-ordinator control will be able to not only control the illumination of the light emitting devices in terms of colour, but also intensity and flash sequencing. Thus, the LED's may be faded up and down rather than have simple on and off states. If a duplex communication system is created it will also be understood that the individual nodes may return signals to the co-ordinator control in terms of received signal strength and this may be utilised in terms of determining positional locality for the node through co-ordinated signal strength relativity.

Furthermore, normally fixed nodes are provided which may or may not include their own light source, it will be understood that these fixed nodes, again through duplex communication and individual identification of each other node, will enable relative positional information to be determined. The fixed nodes will not move within an arena and by each fixed node individually addressing individual transportable nodes it will be understood a co-ordinate determination can be determined. Each fixed node will receive a response signal strength indicator from a receptive node and therefore, by correlating the signal strength responses for the same identifiable node, the relative position of that node can be determined. Once the relative position is determined it will then be understood that again through the individual addressability of each node, illumination patterns can be centred or emanate from that node position in a desired sequence to create ripples and other effects within the illumination pattern determined by the signal sequence emitted by the co-ordinator control.

Fig. 1 illustrates a lighting pattern system in accordance with aspects of the present invention in the form of schematic block representative elements of a preferred format. Thus, a co-ordinator control I is coupled to an appropriate processor device 2 in order to receive operational demands 3 and responses 4 from nodes as described later. It will also be understood that other extrinsic control in the form of audio inputs 5 may be coupled to the processor 2 or directly to the co-ordinator control 1 in order to alter a signal sequence emitted through an antennae 6 to be received by nodes 7 spatially distributed around a venue as well as fixed nodes 8 secured at fixed positions about that venue.

The processor will typically take the form of a personal computer with appropriate serial communication interfaces in order to allow communication with the co-ordirtator control 1. This interface may take the form of USB, RS232 or RS422 couplings dependent upon the spatial distance between the processor 2 and the co-ordinator control 1. However, the interface is not so limited and so could also possibly include wired arrangements such as DMX or low range wireless transmission system such as Bluetooth TM communication systems. The purpose of the co-ordinator 1 is to provide the necessary support command structure to allow a user to send operational commands 3 to the co-ordinator control 1 such that the control 1 can either automatically generate sequence signals or manually create sequence signals dependent upon those commands 3 for transmission through the antennae 6 to the nodes 7, 8. Such communication links will also allow a central controller to remotely or wirelessly re-programme or update control regimes in the nodes as well as provide location verification through triangulation of signal strength responses. It will be understood that the commands in the form of the sequence signals will be wirelessly communicated to the remote nodes 7, 8.

At initial set up it will be understood that the processor 2 advantageously will enable each node 7, 8 to be individually identified and note taken that this node 7, 8 is within the transmission range of the antennae 6 such that these nodes 7, 8 can be integrated within the system for generation of the illumination pattern as desired. As will be described later, 1 5 positioning of the nodes 7 may be necessary in order to properly generate the desired illumination pattern and this will be achieved through relative positioning to the fixed nodes 8 and subsequent transmission of positional signals to the co-ordinator control I such that an appropriate sequence signal can be generated dependent upon the particular node 7 position to create the desired illumination pattern.

The co-ordinator control 1 is more fully illustrated in the block diagram depicted in Fig. 2. As can be seen, a mains electrical power supply 11 provides electrical power to a transceiver 12 as well as a filter 13 for audio or other extrinsic control signals 15. As described previously, an interface 14 acts to receive a command as well as relay response signals 3, 4 to the processor (not shown in Fig. 2).

The co-ordinator control 1 incorporates an appropriate integrated circuit 16 having the transceiver 12 as well as a micro controller 17 for receiving signals 18. The transceiver 12 emits and receives signals through the antennae 6, as described previously, from the nodes 7, 8 (not depicted in Fig. 2).

The co-ordinator control 1 acts as the master within a light patterning system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. As indicated, the co-ordinator control 1 receives commands from a processor and will respond to those commands in sending a signal sequence through the antennae 6 to the remote nodes 7, 8 or receiving information from those nodes for utilisation within the processor to co-ordinate the sequence signals for an appropriate illumination pattern. As indicated, these response signals from the nodes 7, 8 may relate to simply notifying the processor that a node is available or positional information for each node 7 relative to the fixed nodes 8 generally by signal strength responses.

In order to achieve the necessary operational range, it will be understood that the co-ordinator control I will have a relatively high gain and, as indicated, utilise an electrical mains supply. The nodes 7, 8 will typically, at least with regard to the variable spatial position node 7, have a low power to extend battery life and operational usefulness. However, the batteries may be rechargeable and replaceable.

In addition to provision of a separate processor 2 it will also be understood that the co-ordinator control 1 may incorporate the necessary processing functions eliminating the necessity for a separate processor in the form of a personal computer. Similarly, the co-ordinator control will respond to the audio input 15 to adjust the signal sequence stream from the antennae 6 to effect the illumination pattern created in the nodes 7.

In use each node 7 when it comes within range of the co-ordinator control 1, or as it will be described later, a fixed node or a master node, will automatically associate itself with that controller I and present its unique address to the co-ordinator control I to enable it to be incorporated within the illumination pattern desired. It will also be understood that intrinsically if a node 7 has no power or is switched off, then it will not register its address with the present system and additionally, if a node 7 is malfunctioning this may be communicated to the co-ordinator control in order that an individual node 7 can be ignored.

The nodes 7 in accordance with aspects of the present invention are utilised in order to create the desired illumination pattern. This illumination pattern may take many forms and, as indicated, can include generating static shapes or dynamic ripples or wave effects spatially across the node 7 population.

Each node 7 will generally be battery operated and wearable or hand held. In such circumstances, the node 7 will normally be incorporated within a wand or pendant or hat or other carryable feature. Alternatively, in certain venues, where desirable, nodes 7 may have a fixed position in order to create lighting patterns as required for that venue.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention each node 7 or a group of nodes in a cascade will be controlled by the signal sequence for the co-ordinator control or, as will be described later, through utilisation of the fixed nodes 8 or control relationship with neighbouring nodes 7.

In operation the signal sequence will incorporate either an individual command to a particular node 7 or a command or a global command to all nodes 7. In any event, the signal sequence from the co-ordinator control I will provide a command to operate the node. Each node 7 will comprise an appropriate transceiver to provide command signals to a light emitting device.

Fig. 4 provides a schematic block diagram of a node 7 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Thus, a battery 41 will provide a source for a power supply 42 within the node 7. The node 7 has an integrated circuit having a transceiver 44 and a micro controller 45. The radio transceiver and microcontroller can be a single entity/device The transceiver 44 receives the signal sequence through an antennae 46 and this is communicated to the processor 45 in order to stimulate a light emithng device 47.

The light emitting device 47 will generally comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged to emit red, green or blue light dependent upon the signal sequence as well as the micro processor 45.

The transceiver 44 and micro processor 45 on each node 7 will be arranged, as indicated, to receive the signal sequence but also through duplex communication between nodes 7 as well as, as will be described later, fixed nodes B and the co-ordinator control I it will be understood that the positional locality of each node 7 can be determined as well as signals provided indicative of status. It will also be understood that the microprocessor 45 will adjust signals presented to the light emitting device 47 in terms of intensity and lighting duration, that is to say the time period of each light flash, or fade up or fade down.

In view of the above, it will be understood that each node 7 through its light emitting device 47 will be able to create its own light point within an illumination pattern desired. The signal sequence provided by the co-ordinator control 1, as indicated, will either individually or globally instruct the nodes 7 to create that illumination pattern. Furthermore, with each node 7 individually addressable, signals in the signal sequence for that node can be provided on a time division multiplexed basis to stimulate the desired illumination phase in the light emitting device 47. Response from the nodes can be utilised to locally co-ordinate illumination pattern results within a local group of nodes and also generally through fixed nodes 8, as described later, positioning of the nodes 7 within a venue.

In normal operation, as indicated, the light emitting device 47 will be operating in order to provide a desired illumination phase as part of an illumination pattern. However, for a number of reasons, an individual node may not be able to connect through the co-ordinator control and in such circumstances the node may be rendered inoperable or the node may operate in a manual format. This manual format may simply comprise a switch through which an individual can operate the light emitting device or through access to a known illumination phase in terms of constant illumination of one colour or a series of colours and possibly lighting effects (flashes, fade etc) as required.

Generally, in order to allow each node 7 within a system to have a unique address an appropriate control protocol will be utilised.

An optional feature depicted in Fig. 1 relates to provision of fixed nodes. Although optional it will be appreciated that these fixed nodes 8 are preferred with regard to enabling positional location determination of the moveable nodes 7 carried by individuals as badges or wands etc., and to allow seeding of light pattern effects. Fig. 3 provides a schematic block diagram illustrating a fixed node 8 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. The fixed nodes 8 are securely located in position at known locations relative to a user or participant population within a venue. It will be understood that the number of fixed nodes 8 used will depend on the size of the system as well as processing capacity and necessity with regard to positional location.

Positional information is gained by the fixed node 8 scanning for moveable nodes 7 in its locality. Nearby nodes 7 will be stimulated by positional signals received from the fixed nodes 8 in order to respond with their address along with a received signal strength indicator for that address.

Clearly, the higher the received signal strength indicator, the closer a node 7 is to a fixed node 8 position. Utilising positional signal responses, that is to say received signal strength indicators along with node 7 addresses, it will be understood that is it possible through a correlation and triangulation of co- ordinated responses to a number of fixed nodes 8 to determine a relative co-ordinate position for the node 7. In such circumstances, at least the position of some nodes 7 within an auditorium or participant population can be determined as illumination pattern reference positions. Generally, within a large audience due the nature of close proximity of crowds rapid relative movements of the nodes 7 will not occur and therefore through one of a number of processes the illumination pattern can be achieved by determining the positional location for only some of the nodes 7, and using the fixed position nodes 8.

Once the position of certain nodes and their address is known, it will be understood that either the co-ordinator control through the signal sequence can then individually address each of the nodes 7 as required in order to create the desired illumination pattern effects, or that co-ordinator can stimulate the fixed nodes 8 which in turn will then activate nodes within a zone associated with that fixed node 8 or the signal sequence may be received by the node 7 whose position has been determined and then that node 7 acting as a conduit through which signal sequences are relayed to a local group of nodes 7 for an illumination pattern. In such circumstances, using positional data from the fixed nodes 8 as well as each node 7 for which a position has been determined, it will be understood that it is possible to anchor or reference an illumination pattern in accordance with aspects of the present invention. The fixed nodes can also act as a seed point for a lighting sequence such as a rippling wave from that fixed node 8 or rippling anchored and initiated from a node 7 whose position has been determined. In such circumstances the use of batteries as the power supply for the node 7 and fixed nodes 8 will reduce the transmission range and therefore define the zonal node groups as features in the illumination pattern desired.

Nevertheless, where appropriate, the node 7 and fixed nodes 8 may have their transmission power dynamically controlled in order to vary the transmission range and therefore the localised size of the zonal or local node groups as required.

In view of the above, as can be seen in Fig. 3, the fixed nodes 8 take a similar schematic format to that of the moveable nodes 7. The fixed nodes 8 therefore have a power supply 32 coupled to a power source 31 in the form of a battery. The power supply 32 provides power to integrated circuits 33 incorporating a transceiver 34 and a micro controller 35. Thetransceiver 34 receives the signal sequence through an antennae 37 as well as transmits signals to other fixed nodes 8 as well as moveabte nodes 7 and the co-ordinator control 1 as required.

As depicted in Fig. 3, typically the fixed node 8 does not include a light emitting device but could where required. The principal use of the fixed node 8 is to act as a means for notional node 7 positioning for anchoring or referencing the illumination pattern in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

In view of the above, it will be appreciated that the nodes 7, 8 will typically generate and receive neighbour signals through a neighbour signal capability incorporated into the micro processor 35, 45. These neighbour signals will act to identify other nodes 7, 8 within a desired distance of a particular node 7, 8. By such neighbouring, it will be understood that zonal and local groups can be determined for incorporation into the global illumination pattern as local illumination pattern elements or zonal illumination pattern elements. Furthermore, the neighbour signal capability incorporated into the processor 45 can be utilised in order to generate a local signal sequence for a group of nôcies 7 identified as being within transmission range to provide the local illumination pattern element as required. The fixed position nodes 8, as indicated, can provide zonal signal sequences for a nearby zonal group of nodes in order to generate a zonal illumination pattern in that nearby zonal group of nodes. In such circumstances, the global illumination pattern through the multiple control mechanisms of direct signal sequence control from the co-ordinator control 1 or fixed nodes 8 or positional determined nodes 7 acting in concert provide a better overall presentation and sustainability with respect to the illumination pattern. It will be understood that addressing large numbers of nodes at a basic high level, that is to say directly through the co-ordinator control 1, may result in large time periods between each node 7 being addressed to create its desired illumination phase. By use of second and third tier control cascades at the fixed nodes 8 or nodes 7 for which a position has been determined it will be understood that these nodes 7, 8 can themselves locally define, as indicated above, local illumination pattern elements and zonal illumination pattern elements which mosaic together in order to create the desired global illumination pattern from all the nodes 7 in the system. In view of the above, where required, individual nodes 7 can be identified and appropriately illuminated within the illumination pattern, or ripple effects created, or groups of nodes combined with a distinct colour or pulse sequencing for identification. These control regimes will allow 1 5 at one level aesthetic illumination patterns such as ripple and wave effects through an auditorium. However, through the individual addressability generally at the base or primary level of the co-ordinator control 1 an individual node 7 can be identified and illuminated so that, where desired, for example in a competition, that node can be illuminated whilst the others remain dormant to identify an individual.

Similarly by grouping in terms of colour or pulsing it will be understood that seek and find games or mutual compatibility can be identified. Finally, as there will be an inherent encoding with respect to the communication network between the co-ordinator control 1 and the node 7, 8 a security feature can be provided such that nodes 7, 8 will only be illuminated if an appropriate response to the signal sequence provided by the control 1 is acknowledged by the nodes 7, 8. This will only occur if those nodes become registered and therefore elicit entry to a venue will be notified by failure of an individual's node 7 to illuminate. This may also be useful for time period based activities such as fixed time periods at an ice rink or attractions such as a museum or amusement park.

Generally, it will be understood that the co-ordinator control 1, and possibly the fixed nodes 8, will be part of a system fixed infrastructure and therefore retrained by an operator of a system whilst the nodes 7 may be specifically distributed prior to an event or retained by individuals for use at that event and subsequently if authorised and enabled. In such circumstances, the nodes 7 will, as indicated, be readily transportable as wands or bands or sticks and mass produced for reduced cost in view of economy to scale. Fig. 5 illustrates a typical node 7 in a practical form as a stick 77 having a handle end 71 and an antennae end 72 with an illumination portion 73 therebetween. It will be appreciated that a handle 71 is provided to urge users of the device 77 to hold that device 77 in a particular way such that the antennae end 72 is not masked reducing the transmission and receive range of the device 77. As the device 77 is inherently, as described above, of relatively low power should an individual's hand wrap around the antennae end 72 the receive and transmit range will be significantly reduced. It will also be noted that a hook 74 is provided to allow the device 77 to be worn with a lanyard.

The illumination portion 73 typically will comprise a transparent or semi opaque section through which the light emitting devices can operate in order to create a glow as part of the desired illumination phase and therefore part of the illumination pattern in use.

In view of the above, it will be appreciated that aspects of the present invention also provide a method of creating a lighting pattern within a participant population/audience and venue. Co-ordination control is provided through a signal sequence delivered to either slave or responsive nodes 7, 8 in order to create individual desired illumination phases in those nodes 7, 8.

Returning to Fig. 1, in such circumstances it will be appreciated that the method provides a signal sequence such that each node 7 is identified, registered and appropriately controlled. At a basic level the method will allow each node 7 to create a illumination pattern as desired, but such an approach will require specific location of the node 7 so that this approach may apply if the nodes 7 are secured at desired and known locations within a venue such that the signal sequence can then activate each node in terms of its illumination phase to create the illumination pattern within that venue..

However, a more practical approach in accordance with aspects of the present invention is for the node 7 to be individually carried by participants and therefore the actual position of the node 7 within the venue may vary.

Thus, the method allows the use of fixed nodes 8 in order to determine notional positional location for the nodes 7 within the venue. This method comprises the fixed nodes 8 emitting a position signal 100. These position signals 100 are emanated respectively from fixed nodes 8a, 8b, 8c as positional signals lOOa, bOb, lOOc, an examplary node 7a will then return an address signal 200 to each individual node 8 comprising a node 7a identifier 1 5 as well as a signal strength indicator. Typically, the method will then provide node Ba, 8b, Bc signals through the antennae 6 to the processor 2 in order that through co-ordinated signal strength values correlation a relative position for the node 7a relative to the fixed nodes 8a, 8b, 8c can be determined and then an appropriate adjustment to the signal sequence made to achieve the desired illumination pattern. It will be understood that only the fixed nodes Ba, 8b, 8c have been utilised in the exemplary part of the method in accordance with aspects of the present invention, but in reality more fixed nodes 8 may be utilised in order to determine nodes 7a position or any of the other nodes 7 within an auditorium.

Once the notional position of the nodes 7a in accordance with aspects of the present invention has been determined, it will be understood that through an appropriate signal sequence the nodes 7 about that now locationally known positioned node 7a can be individually addressed in order to stimulate the illumination phase as required in order to achieve the desired illumination pattern.

The method also allows a cascade from the known fixed positions of the fixed position nodes 8. In such circumstances if there is sufficient processing capacity such that all the nodes 7 in terms of position can be notionally located within an auditorium it will be understood that the fixed nodes 8 or any of the nodes 7 can be utilised as reference points from which illumination pattern elements or sequences such as ripples or waves can emulate.

The nodes 7, as indicated, will generally take the form of a carryable badge or stick. In order to conserve electrical power supply an on/off switch will be provided. Once switched on the node 7 will search for an appropriate connection to a co-ordinator control 1 or fixed node 8 where used. If such a connection cannot be made then the node 7 will either switch off or enter an automatic illumination phase sequence.

As indicated above, individual addressability for each node 7 within a system has advantages. Figs. 6 and 8 illustrate a message structure for each node in a system. The message structure consists of 25 bytes as seen in Fig. 6. Not all of these bytes are used in every command as described below.

Byte 0 COMMAND* The Command Byte shall give the possibility of 256 commands of the device to execute.

Bytes 1-3 LED Intensity (100) The LED intensity value shall be in the range of OxOO (LED is off) and OxFF (LED is at maximum intensity). Values in between shall vary the PWM c/p to each corresponding LED to vary the intensity.

Bytes 4-6 Attack (101) These bytes shall represent a step value to be used to ramp up the LED intensity to the desired value as defined in bytes 1-3. The time between steps is defined by the TIMEBASE byte in rnifliseconds. Each step will increment the LED intensity until it reaches the desired value as per bytes 1-3.

If all three Attack bytes are zero then this signifies that only a decay ramp is required Byte 7TIMEBASE(102) This byte is the time in milliseconds between Attack (as described above) and Decay (as described below) ramp steps as seen in Fig. 8.

Byte 8 DURATION (103) This byte is the time between the attack and decay ramps in lOs of milliseconds (lOmps up to 2550ms). If this byte is cleared to zero then the duration will be infinite (until another command is received) and the decay ramp will not be performed and the Decay bytes 9-11 are ignored.

ytes9-11 Decay (104) These bytes shall represent a step value to be used to ramp down the LED intensity from the desired value as defined in bytes 1-3 down to zero.

The time between steps is defined by the TIMEBASE bytes in milliseconds.

Each set will decrement the LED intensity until it reaches zero.

Byte 12 Tx DELAY This byte shall be the time between reception of a ripple type command and the re-transmission of that command (see below). This byte shall represent a delay period of up to 2550mS for a hex value of OxFF. Therefore, OxOO=OmS, OxOl=lOmS... OxFF255OmS.

Byte 13 SEQUENCE The Sequence number is used primarily in ripple type commands where a message is to be re-transmitted by each node that receives the command. The Sequence number will ensure that a ripple command is only re-transmitted once, Each bit of the Sequence byte represents a ripple command identifier with up to eight ripple command identities. Only one bit shall ever be set by the co-ordinator in the SEQUENCE byte at any one time.

Each node shall store a local copy of the Sequence byte and shall set the corresponding bit according to the received Sequence byte. The node shall check its locally stored Sequence byte against the received Sequence bit. If the local bit is already set then this command has been received before and shall be ignored. Up to eight ripple commands can be in motion at once. The co-ordinator can send out a special Clear Sequence Bits" command to all nodes for reset of the Sequence byte ready for another set of ripple commands. (See below).

Byte 14 TX POWER This byte shall relate directly to the desired Transmit Power, of the ZigStick for the required action of the received command.

Byte 15FLASHES This byte defines the number of flashes to be performed. The Flash profile is defined by bytes 1-1 1.

Byte 16FLASH DELAY This byte is used in conjunction with byte 15 and is the time in lOs of milliseconds between each flash. (lOrnS -255OmS).

Bytes 17-25 MAC These bytes in the message structure shall contain a node MAC address. (See below) All commands will be executed in a serial manner one after another and only the STOP command will override a command currently being executed. The message byte definitions are given below.

Command Number 0" shall be to illuminate the LEDs as per the intensity bytes(bytes 1-3), Attack/decay (bytes 4-11) and Flash bytes(bytes 15 and 16). All other bytes in the message shall be ignored.

Command Number "1" (RIPPLE) shall illuminate the LEDs as per command 0. The radio output power shall be changed according to that given in the Tx Power byte and after the Tx-Delay the incoming message shall then be BROADCAST to surrounding nodes within radio range. After transmission the radio transmit power shall be then changed back to maximum and the 0 appropriate Sequence bit set. Once the message has been transmitted from the node or device it shall ignore any ripple commands with the same Sequence bit set.

Command Number "2" (WAVE) shall illuminate the LEDs as per command 0. The radio output power shall be changed according to that given in the Tx Power Byte. The incoming message shall then be BROADCAST to surrounding nodes within a radio range after the delay specified in the Tx_Delay byte. The appropriate sequence bit shall be set and further WAVE commands with the same Sequence bit set shall be ignored. After transmission, the radio transmit power shall be then changed back to maximum and all LEDs shall return to their previous state pnor to the Wave COMMAND.

Command number "3" (FIND_PARTNER) shall adjust the radio transmit power as per the TX Power byte and illuminate the LEDs according to the intensity bytes. The device shall then transmit Command "4" (PARTNER_FOUND)) to the MAC address specified in the MAC bytes with the same LED intensity bytes.

Command Number "4" *(PARTNER_FOUND) shall illuminate the LEDs as per the intensity bytes.

Command Number "5" (SPOT) shall illuminate the LEDs as per Command "0", and re-transmit to local nodes as Command 2. However, the message is not re-broadcast and so a coloured spot of nodes can be produced like a searchlight effect. The diameter of the light depends on the transmit power given in the Tx Power byte.

Command Numbers "6" to "253" are available for other command operations.

Command Number "254". This command shall reset the Sequence byte of a receiving node back to zero in preparation for a new WAVE or RIPPLE command.

Command Number "255" (STOP) the device shall respond to this 1 5 command by ceasing any command currently in progress immediately. The nodes LEDs shall remain at their current intensity at the point the STOP command was received.

Fig. 7 schematically illustrates seeding of a wave or tidal light illumination effect in accordance with aspects of the present invention. As described above, fixed nodes 8 or moveable nodes 7 can be provided as seeds from which illumination patterns are generated. .Each node 7, 8 acts as a transceiver of illumination signals. As described above, each node will incorporate a battery or some other form of regulator with respect to transmission range. In such circumstances, each node 7, 8 once stimulated will emit a command signal to other nodes within its transmission range in order to create and stimulate illumination in those nodes 7. 8.

In Fig. 7 a seed node 77 emits a signal in the range 78 which will be generally 5 -10 metres in distance. All the nodes within that range will be stimulated in order to create illumination. Such. stimulation may be instantaneous or phased dependent upon the command signal regime utilised. As indicated, each node will itself be stimulated in order to create light illumination and repeat or relay the command signals to other nodes within the recipient nodes transmission range. Fig. 7 illustrates as circles the transmission ranges which will stimulate the outward wave or ripple effect in the direction of arrowhead Z. Thus, as illustrated, the first or seed node 77 will emit its command signal and then nodes 87a, 87b will themselves be stimulated and emit command signals in ranges 88a, 88b and then a node 97 in the range 88b of node 87b will stimulate and repeat a command signal in the range 98. In such circumstances, light emission moves in the direction of arrowhead Z. However, it will be understood that Fig. 7 only illustrates one direction and generally the illumination pattern will be seeded as indicated by node 77 and will radiate radially about that node 77. By the above approach it will be understood that a wave of light radiates from the node 77 but each node by implication has at least a proportion of its transmission area 1 5 overlapping with the recipient node for the command signal. In such circumstances, nodes in accordance with aspects of the present invention will incorporate means to ensure once stimulated by a first command signal any "bounce back" command signal will be ignored in order that the light wave radiates as described. In such circumstances, light patterning can be created initiating from a seed 77 which, as indicated, can be a moveable node or a fixed node as required. The pattern can ripple out as far as desired by the command signal relayed throughout the node population, or only to a desired number of nodes interspaced distances and then bouncing back with a new seeded command signal in the opposite direction as required. Alternately, a number of command signals may radiate from seed nodes throughout the node population but having different command uniqueness such that the ripple and wave effects overlap each other in order to create desired illumination patterns. As indicated, to prevent repeated illumination with the same command signal generally each node will be arranged to switch off if the same command signal is received more than once until reset in some way.

In order to generate a wave effect, the command number 2 will be presented in the control byte 4 such that again the LEDs wiH be illuminated to the intensity defined in the intensity bytes 1 to 3 for the light emitting devices.

The radio power output will be changed according to the transmit power byte and the message transmitted to surrounding nodes within radio range after a delay specified by the delayed byte in order to simulate a wave effect moving through the nodes. After transmission the radio transmit power shall then be changed back to maximum and all the light emitting diodes shall return to their previous states of background intensity and the illumination pattern.

A command number 3 will enable partnering of nodes through adjustment of the radio transit power in the power transit byte and illuminate the LEDs according to those intensity bytes. Generally, the nodes will transmit a return partner found signal along with their unique address to co- 1 5 ordinate light emitting device density light levels.

Other command numbers 5 to 256 can also be defined for particular operational performance in terms of illumination pattern distributions within the node population and venue.

Aspects of the present invention provide a re-useable light patterning system which enables specific determination of illumination patterns by extrinsic control either through a processor or manual input such that a whole or partial participant population can all be specifically incorporated in desired illumination patterns. The nodes carried by those individual participants can be reusable and will all generally be initiated at the same time in comparison with previous systems where there was variability with respect to chemical activation such that consistency with regard to a desired illumination pattern was impossible.

Modifications and alterations to the present invention will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Thus, for example, the nodes carried by individuals may be settable to various levels dependent upon that individuals' requirements within the context of the overall illumination pattern.

Thus, for example an individual may adjust the intensity of the light from their device dependent upon their requirements or provide an indication with regard to desired location, that is to say as there will be potentially fixed node positions an individual may indicate where they would like to be within a venue and therefore, through illumination phase response in the node, an indication given as to how close they are to that particular position such as a red flashing light indicating divergence from the desired position and the rate of that flash indicating the distance from the desired location or other node.

Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features thereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

CLAIMS

1. A light patterning system which includes one or more transportable nodes which nodes include means for emitting light and means for receiving command signals relating to the illumination of the said

transportable nodes.

2. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 1 in which the said transportable nodes include means for sending signals including command signals and responses to command signals.

3. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 2 in which a transportable node includes means for varying the strength of the signals which it sends out.

4. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 3 in which a transportable node includes means for measuring the strength of the signals which it receives.

5. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim in whict.

each transportable node is individually addressable by means of a unique identity code.

6. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim in which each transportable node contains a logic means which enables it to act on signals received.

7. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 6 in which each transportable node contains means for processing and storing signals received.

8. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim in which each transportable node contains logic means for acting on previously received instructions.

9. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim in which each transportable node contains means for controlling the colour and/or duration and/or intensity of the light which it emits.

10. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 9 in which each transportable node provides the said control in response to signals received and/or in response to information previously stored.

11. A light patterning system which includes one or more transportable nodes which also includes one or more fixed nodes each equipped with means for transmitting and receiving signals.

12. A light patterning system which includes one or more transportable nodes which also includes one or more fixed nodes where each fixed node is equipped with means for transmitting and receiving signals which fixed nodes also contain logic means for responding to instructions received.

13. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 12 in which a fixed node includes logic means capable of storing previously received instructions and generating and transmitting instructions to transportable nodes after processing stored data.

14. A light patterning system as claimed in claim 11 or 12 or 13, in which a fixed node includes means for transmitting signals at more than one power level.

15. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous, in which a fixed node includes means for storing a unique identity and responding to instructions only when they contain that unique identity.

16. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim which may or may not include fixed nodes which includes a co-ordinating controller.

17. A co-ordinating controller for a light patterning system in which the said controller includes logic means for storing, or generating or processing instructions and which also includes means for transmitting and receiving instructions at one or more signal strengths to either fixed nodes or transportable nodes.

18. A co-ordinating controller for a light patterning system according to claim 17 which is capable of receiving instructions from a computer.

19. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim in which all nodes can respond to either signals addressed to an individual node by means of a unique identity code or signals which are not addressed to any specific node.

20. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim where the control signals received by any node may originate from any source including a control system and/or a fixed node and/or a transportable node.

21. A light patterning system as claimed in any previous claim where the responses to control signals received by any node may emitted from any source including a control system and/or a fixed node and/or a

transportable node.