WO2021043996A2

WO2021043996A2 - System for transmitting data by means of optical data signals

Info

Publication number: WO2021043996A2
Application number: PCT/EP2020/074789
Authority: WO
Inventors: Markus Fischer
Original assignee: Markus Fischer
Priority date: 2019-09-04
Filing date: 2020-09-04
Publication date: 2021-03-11
Also published as: WO2021043996A3; DE202019003653U1

Abstract

The system for transmitting data, in particular within a room, has: - a first unit, known as an uplink, designed to receive an electrical data signal, to convert this signal into an optical data signal and to output said signal, - a second unit, known as an OLS, for receiving the optical data signal and for outputting it to a receiver in which the optical data is processed, - and a third unit, known as a crosslink, designed to receive the optical data signals from the uplink and to forward the optical data signals to the OLS.

Description

description

System for data transmission by means of optical data signals

The invention relates to a system for data transmission by means of optical data signals.

Wireless data transmission via radio (Wi-Fi) has established itself in many areas today because it is easy to integrate and install. Disadvantages of these radio-based systems, however, are bottlenecks in the radio frequencies, the relatively high energy consumption, the susceptibility to interference from shielding and interference, the risk of radiation and the low level of security against eavesdropping.

Wireless data transmission using light, also known as Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) or Light Fidelity (LiFi), has a number of advantages compared to radio transmission. Particularly noteworthy are the fast data transmission up to the high Gbps range, the high bandwidth, security against eavesdropping, relative insensitivity to overlays and shielding, as well as low energy consumption and non-existent radiation risks.

A disadvantage of optical data transmission is that the data signals can only be received via light in the light cone or radiation area of a light source and end at a wall at the latest. As soon as the light beam is interrupted, the data transmission is also interrupted.

In everyday life, this means that optical data transmission has disadvantages when it comes to installation in rooms. Naturally, due to the need for direct line of sight without interruption, the light sources used for LiFi applications are usually attached to the ceiling or at least above the level that still leads to shading by moving people or equipment. Since it is advisable to obtain large cones of light in order to emit the data signals over a large area, the signal sources should be installed at the highest points, following the laws of physics.

In order to bring the data from the network to the light sources used for LiFi, preferably on the ceiling, these light sources are usually connected to data cables, usually an Ethernet cable. However, Ethernet cables are normally not installed in the ceiling and can only be installed there with great effort in order to bring the data to the emitting units of the optical signals, usually on the ceiling and called Overhead Light Sources (OLS). In industrial environments with frequently changing machine locations, this can lead to considerable effort despite suspended ceilings.

In industrial, museum and domestic areas, the complex and expensive installation of data cables prevents the widespread introduction of LiFi products, especially since a data cable has to be installed in every room belonging to the building in order to be able to use LiFi.

In summary, it can be stated that the complex and impractical, necessary connection of LiFi products with data cables stands in the way of a broad market launch of LiFi technology.

Based on this, the invention is based on the object of providing a system for the simple, wireless connection of signal sources for optical data transmission.

The object is achieved according to the invention by a system for data transmission having the features of claim 1. This system is used for targeted, flexible unidirectional and bidirectional data transmission by means of optical data signals.

For this purpose, the system has at least three device units, between which the optical data signals are passed on. These are a first unit, referred to as an uplink, which is designed to receive an electrical data signal and convert it into an optical data signal. The uplink thus receives electronic cal data generally from a feed unit, for example from a network socket, a router, a data processing device such as a computer, notebook or smartphone or wirelessly via, for example, WLAN. Within the uplink, these electrical data signals are converted into optical data signals, that is to say into a light signal, by means of a module. This optical data signal thus contains the data information that was made available via the electrical data signal, for example text, image and / or sound information. The uplink therefore forms a receiver for electronic data and at the same time a transmitter for an optical data signal.

As a second unit, the system has an OLS (Overhead Light Source) unit, which is designed to receive and output the optical data signal to a receiver. The optical data are processed in the receiver and, in particular, converted back into electronic data. The receiver is, for example, a receiving device such as a data processing device, for example a computer, laptop or smartphone, which often has an output unit such as a display or loudspeaker for outputting the transmitted information. Finally, the system has a third unit called a crosslink, which is arranged between the uplink and the OLS and which is designed to receive the optical data signals from the uplink and to forward the optical data signals to the OLS.

All three units are typically independent devices, that is to say independent structural units, each of which has a housing. The devices each have an output unit or transmission unit via which the optical data signal is output. The crosslink and the OLS also have a receiving unit for receiving the optical data signal.

The particular advantage of this system is that these three units can be used to transmit an optical data signal within a room, for example from a network socket installed near the floor, to a suitable location on a ceiling in a purely optical way.

The system is expediently installed within a room, the uplink being arranged in a wall area close to the floor, the crosslink in an area raised compared to the uplink, especially in a room area close to the ceiling, and the OLS being arranged on the ceiling of the room. The area near the ceiling is, for example, a wall area close to the ceiling or the ceiling in the area of a wall. The crosslink is therefore generally installed in a corner area between the wall and the ceiling. This enables the light signal between the uplink and crosslink to run essentially along the wall and especially essentially vertically and then to be routed from the crosslink to the OLS. From there, the optical data signal is sent to the receiving device in a desired area of the room within the room.

The optical data signals are in particular invisible infrared signals. In principle, signals in the visible wavelength range can also be transmitted.

The electronic data, for example from a network connection (preferably router or luK connection) are preferably converted into the optical data signals by means of a patch cable connected to the uplink and are targeted and tightly bundled from the uplink via at least one, preferably several crosslinks , which form a system of directional transmitters, receivers and optical deflection units, similar to directional radio, transmitted to one or more OLS. The OLS are generally units of emitting optical signals. They are usually attached to the ceiling of the room. With a bidirectional design data can also be sent back from the respective OLS via the same optical path.

In a preferred embodiment, the uplink generally has a plug connection for connection to a network cable and / or for connection to a power socket. According to a first variant, this plug connection is a socket into which, for example, the aforementioned patch cable can be plugged. Alternatively, the uplink is provided directly with a plug, for example a so-called Western plug for plugging directly into a network socket. In addition, the plug can also be designed as a USB plug with which the uplink can be plugged into a USB socket of a laptop, for example. In this variant, the uplink is designed, for example, in the manner of a stick or dongle.

In addition to this plug connection for connection to a network cable, the up link preferably also has a plug for plugging into a power socket via which a power supply takes place.

In one embodiment, a powerline data transmission is provided, in which electronic data are transmitted via the power network and thus the power socket according to the principle of powerline communication (PLC).

A module for converting the received electronic data into the optical data signal is also generally provided within the uplink.

In addition to a wired connection, there is also the fundamental possibility that electronic data can be received from the uplink wirelessly, for example via WLAN. In this embodiment variant, the uplink has, for example, a WLAN module for receiving electronic data.

The connection to a PLC network can also be made via an adapter to which the uplink module is connected. This gives the data network a level of flexibility comparable to that of WLAN, in which the data is transmitted via existing electrical lines of the low-voltage network and which enables the simple installation of uplink modules in all rooms of the building.

The uplink module preferably comprises a housing, one or more ports for the data input and possibly one or more ports for the data output and a plug connection for the power supply. Ideally, the uplink module supports Power over Ethernet (PoE). The uplink module supports unidirectional or bidirectional data communication, depending on the version. The uplink is, for example, in the manner of a router or a switch. I. E. the uplink itself is used to connect patch cables, so that the electronic data signals are provided in this way, or the uplink also fulfills the function of a network connection socket at the same time.

In a preferred embodiment, in the variant with the integrated WLAN module, the uplink is also designed for the wireless transmission of electronic data in a WLAN network. The uplink itself therefore also forms, for example, a WLAN router or a WLAN repeater or an access point.

In order to avoid shading or data interruption, for example by moving people, the optical signals are preferably sent vertically upwards in the direction of the ceiling to the deflection unit (crosslink). Due to the uplink unit, which is preferably pivotable over all axes, the optical signals can also be sent to a crosslink module at any angle to avoid shading or interruptions.

The uplink module is expediently provided with a permanently installed or adjustable light source, preferably with one or more light emitting diodes, which make it possible to mark the optical signals that are sent from the uplink unit on the wall to prevent accidental shading Avoid signals from people. In a further variant, the uplink module can be provided with an adjustable laser diode in order to precisely align the data signal with the receiving unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the uplink has a base area and a sensor area, which are typically each accommodated in their own sub-housings and which can be adjusted relative to one another. The adjustment takes place in particular in a linearly displaceable manner, for example with the aid of a telescopic element, for example a telescopic rod. With the base area, the uplink is connected to the feed device or the feed unit, especially a network socket or a power socket. Due to the telescopic arrangement of the transmission area, which has the Sen de unit for outputting the optical data signals, obstacles close to the ground can therefore be overcome, for example. The adjustment range is 10-40 cm, for example.

In order to enable a targeted optical connection between the individual devices uplink, crosslink and OLS, they initially have an output unit for the optical data signal (light signal). The output unit of at least one of these three devices or all of these three devices is adjustable so that that is, a direction of emission of the optical data signal can be set. The adjustability extends preferably over all spatial directions and takes place in particular special about several axes. For this purpose, the output or transmission unit is mounted such that it can pivot or rotate. For example, a ball joint-like connection is provided.

The output unit (transmission unit) of the OLS preferably has a zoom unit, which is designed in particular in the manner of adjustable optics. A radiation area for the optical data signal can be varied in its size via this zoom unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the OLS as a whole emits a cone of light. The cone angle can be adjusted using the zoom unit. As an alternative to zoomable lens optics, in particular electronic adjustment (electronic zoom) is provided in which, for example, the light source that emits the optical data signal is controlled accordingly.

In principle, there is also the possibility that the uplink and / or the crosslink is provided with such a zoom unit.

The OLS is preferably an independent structural unit which, besides the functions in connection with the optical data transmission, has no further functional elements, in particular no lighting element which is provided for room lighting.

In a preferred embodiment, the OLS in particular is designed for battery operation and for this purpose has a battery compartment for a battery. In principle, there is also the possibility that the uplink and / or the crosslink are battery-operated. However, this is of particular advantage especially for the OLS, since it is often difficult to implement a power supply on the ceiling.

In order to enable simple replacement of the battery, especially in the case of the ceiling-mounted OLS, the battery is detachably arranged on the OLS and a handling device, in particular a control rod, is provided as part of the system. This handling device is used to exchange the battery remotely. Before given to this, the battery is arranged in a battery module which has a holder, for example a shell or a housing, in which the battery is angeord net. If necessary, this battery module has electrical contacts which on the one hand are connected to the inserted battery and on the other hand can be connected to the OLS with corresponding mating contacts. The battery module is simply inserted into the battery compartment so that it is attached to the OLS. This he follows, for example, via a magnetic attachment or a latch.

The handling device has, in particular, grippers that grip the battery module and at the same time loosen the fastening of the battery module so that it can be removed.

The crosslink is generally used to record the optical data signals sent by the uplink and to forward them to the OLS units placed in the room.

In a bidirectional configuration, the crosslink also serves to receive optical data signals from the overhead light source (OLS) and to pass them on to the uplink or another OLS.

In a preferred embodiment variant, the OLS has an integrated cross link and is designed as a combined OLS. This is designed, on the one hand, to deliver the optical data signal to a receiver and, on the other hand, to forward the optical data signal, for example to a further OLS or a crosslink. In general, the optical data signal is therefore emitted by the combined OLS in two different directions.

In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of OLSs are accordingly also arranged at different positions, which radiate into different areas, in particular spatial areas, and thus preferably transmit the signals to different receivers.

An application example for this are training rooms or conference rooms in which the same content or different content is to be distributed to several people at the same time.

In a preferred embodiment, at least the OLS can be operated remotely. A remote control is therefore provided as a further part of the system. In particular, the zoom unit can be used to set the radiation area of the OLS.

As already explained above, invisible light, in particular IR light, is preferably used for optical data transmission.

At least one of the devices selected from uplink, crosslink and OLS preferably has at least one lighting element which at least temporarily emits a visible light signal in the direction of the optical data transmission in order to display the light path for the optical data transmission. This measure makes the light path identifiable especially in the case of a non-visible optical data signal. On the one hand, this provides a simple way of assembling and adjusting the individual devices with respect to one another. For setting, the lighting element can be switched on and off, for example via a switch or also via a remote control. In particular, the uplink has such a light-emitting element. At the A light-emitting element is, for example, a light-emitting diode and / or a light-emitting element designed in the manner of a laser pointer.

In addition or as an alternative to this lighting element for setting purposes, a lighting element is arranged which is designed in such a way that the course of the optical data signal is projected onto a wall. As a result, the course of the optical signal is visualized along the wall, especially during operation and thus permanently. This gives an indication of where the signal path is in order to prevent it from being blocked by obstacles. For this projection on the wall, a fan beam is generated in particular, which is spanned by the direction of the optical signal and a direction that is directed towards the wall.

In an expedient embodiment, an adapter foot is also provided, which is designed for insertion into a rail. The OLS and / or the uplink can be connected to this adapter foot or have this adapter foot. In the first case, the adapter foot can be connected to the OLS or the uplink, for example, via a plug-in or snap-in connection.

The rail is, in particular, a power rail on which, for example, light-emitting elements such as spots or the like are arranged and are supplied with power. In this case, the adapter foot has, in particular, current contacts which, in the inserted state, are connected for contacting with electrical conductor tracks of the busbar and which are designed for the electrical power supply of the OLS or the uplink. In the modular design, in which the adapter base can be connected to the respective device, the adapter base has electrical contacts that are connected to corresponding electrical contacts on the OLS or the uplink. This adapter base is particularly important for the OLS, as it can be used to supply energy via existing installations without additional installation.

The system described here is used, for example, in exhibition rooms such as museums. In these, objects are often irradiated with light elements. If these are connected to such rail systems, there is only little installation effort in such applications. At the same time, object or location-specific information (sound, image, text, video) can be transmitted via the respective OLS, which is then output on the receiving device, which is for example a mobile, portable device such as a mobile phone.

In this application, there is also the option of transmitting data via the power rail itself using powerline communication become. In this case, for example, the uplink is to be connected to the busbar, which converts the electronic data signals into the optical data signals.

The crosslink module expediently has an adjustable mirror unit, in particular a three-dimensionally alignable optical mirror system is provided. In this embodiment variant, the crosslink module preferably does not have any active components that need to be supplied with energy. An energy supply is therefore not required.

Alternatively, the crosslink can also be equipped with an active component and has, for example, an electronic system for receiving and forwarding the optical data signal. In particular, the crosslink has a light-emitting element, for example a laser diode.

In the active, electronic variant, the crosslink expediently has a housing, a plug connection for the power supply or a battery, if necessary a receiving sensor for the optical data signals that can be aligned around the axes, internal electronics for processing the data and, if necessary, a sensor a transmission unit for optical signals that can be aligned about the axes.

The use of a crosslink with a passive optical mirror system ensures reduced energy and system costs compared to an active electronic crosslink.

The crosslink can be attached to the wall or ceiling in a suitable manner, for example by means of screws, a self-adhesive foot or even magnetically, etc. The OLS can also be attached in the same way.

In a preferred embodiment, the foot of the crosslink can be pulled out in order to avoid obstacles in the line of sight to the overhead light source (OLS). In general, therefore, the fastening foot of the crosslink and its transmitter unit, which in the simplest case is a mirror, can be moved relative to one another. In the same way, one variant of the OLS also has an extendable fastening foot.

The overhead light source (OLS) is in particular a receiving and transmitting unit to be attached to the ceiling, depending on the design, in the visible as well as in the infrared wave range. The input signals coming from the crosslink are processed and preferably transmitted downwards via an optical transmitter. Depending on the version, the OLS either only has the transmitter unit downwards or, in the case of the variant of the combined OLS, also has an integrated transmitter unit for optical signals, preferably alignable over all axes, in order to connect several OLS modules with one another in larger rooms.

Another variant of the OLS module, which is only provided with a transmission unit for optical signals downwards, can be connected to an uplink module via a data port, which sends the optical signal to further OLS modules.

In order to be able to connect conventional LiFi light sources such as LED lights, which only have connections for data cables, to the OLS modules, the OLS module expediently also has one or more ports, i.e. connection sockets for data or patch cables, preferred Ethernet cable to pass on the data to the conventional LiFi light source via the OLS module. In this case, the OLS preferably has an integrated module for converting the received optical data signals into electronic data signals, which can then be passed on. For example, an output device such as a projector can then also be connected to the ceiling.

In an expedient embodiment, a total of several crosslinks and / o the OLS or combined OLS are arranged in the room. It is also possible to divide the data to different OLS via the crosslinks. Overall, this allows a data signal to be sent to different crosslinks.

In a preferred embodiment, the system has a receiving module and / or a transmitting module, each of which is formed in particular in the manner of a stick or dongle. The receiving module is designed to receive the optical data signals and convert them into an electronic data signal. The transmission module is designed to convert an electronic data signal into an optical data signal and to output it. The transmission module can therefore also be viewed as a special uplink. The respective module is designed to be connected to a data processing device, such as a computer, laptop and, in particular, smartphone. For this purpose, the module has a plug element, in particular a USB plug. According to a first variant, the connection to the data processing device takes place here by means of a cable which carries the plug element at the end. According to a second variant, the plug element, specifically the USB plug, is directly part of the module, as is known from conventional USB sticks.

In an expedient embodiment, the respective module has a receiving unit or a transmitting unit each for optical data signals and additionally a plug, in particular a USB plug, which is articulated with the receiving or Sending unit is connected. The entire module is therefore designed in each case in the manner of a USB stick with an articulated transmitting and / or receiving unit. The conversion into the optical data signals takes place within the module. The module is preferably designed as a receiving and transmitting module at the same time, ie it is designed both for receiving and for outputting an optical data signal. It generally has a module for converting the optical signals into electronic signals and vice versa.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the data processing device is designed as a portable device such as a smartphone or a tablet, and the module is designed as an accessory for this. The accessory has a cover for the portable device or is designed as such. Alternatively, the accessory has some other fastening element that can be fastened to the housing of the portable device, such as a clamping unit or a plug-on unit. This accessory part has a transmitting and / or receiving unit for the Sen, but in particular for the reception of the optical data signals. This sending and / or receiving unit is preferably integrated in the case or connected to it. The data connection with the data processing device can be made either via a plug connection with a connection socket of the device or, if necessary, wirelessly, e.g. via Bluetooth. The accessory has, for example, an integrated plug which is automatically plugged into the device socket when the accessory is plugged onto the device. Alternatively, a cable connection is provided.

Such an embodiment variant represents a particularly inexpensive system for providing suitable receivers and output devices. Specifically, only the accessory part needs to be kept available, which can be combined with a conventional smartphone / tablet. This system is therefore particularly suitable for areas of application with public traffic, such as in museums or also for lecture events. Visitors / users can use their smartphone in combination with the accessories provided to connect to the system via the optical data link and receive content via their mobile device.

The system also has a powerline device which is designed for wireless or wired reception of the electronic data signal, for example via LAN or WLAN, and which is designed for plugging into a power socket and for transmitting the electronic data signal via the power line. Powerline communication is therefore established via this powerline device so that the data provided can be accessed flexibly within the building. This powerline device is combined in particular with a Uplink, which has a corresponding powerline module for converting the electronic data into the optical data signal.

In addition to indoor installation, the system described here is also particularly suitable for optical data transmission outdoors. In order to enable the desired installation of the OLS or the crosslinks, it is specifically provided in this case that the system also has one or more stands, which are designed to attach at least one of the devices selected from the uplink, crosslink and OLS. The stand is particularly adjustable in height. With this measure, optical data transmission can also be set up outdoors if required by arranging one or more crosslinks and OLSs. This is useful for outdoor events, for example. In addition, the stands can also be used in rooms, for example for temporary requirements, so that a permanent installation, for example the OLS on the ceiling, is not necessary. The stands are generally in the extended to stand so high that the devices mounted on them are arranged at a height of, for example, at least two meters above the ground.

The OLS specially mounted on the ceiling were previously described in connection with optical data transmission. According to a second independent and independently inventive aspect, it is provided that the system has a plurality of OLS units which are designed to output an optical data signal which contains a specific position ID identifying the location of the OLS. This position ID is used in connection with a receiver that receives and processes the position ID from the OLS.

The receiver is in particular a portable device, in particular a smartphone. In particular, the built-in camera is used as the receiving unit. The particular advantage of this embodiment according to the invention is that the user can receive information about his current location, especially in closed rooms. This is particularly important for orientation in publicly accessible buildings such as museums, shopping centers, train stations, airports, etc., for example.

According to a preferred embodiment, a navigation program is also provided for execution on the receiver, that is to say specifically on the smartphone, which uses the position ID to display the current whereabouts of the user and, in particular, provides navigation. Overall, this enables the user to navigate within the building, in particular across several floors. According to a first. As an embodiment, the system described here is used solely for determining the location of the user and, if necessary, for his navigation. In particular, map material is provided which the user can load onto his smartphone and which, for example, depicts a building plan. Furthermore, a corresponding app is preferably provided, which can also be loaded onto the smartphone and which is used to visualize the surroundings (map) and, in particular, also to navigate. Through intercommunication with this app, the user can therefore specify his destination within the building in the usual way and the app then guides him to the desired location based on the transmitted position data. The smartphone receives the various position IDs from the various OLS. Each OLS and thus each position ID is assigned a defined location within the building.

According to a second preferred variant, in addition to the pure position signal, further data is also transmitted via the optical data signal via the OLS, so that content such as text, image, sound, video is also provided. This additional content is provided in a location-specific manner in particular. In this case, the system is designed specifically in the manner of a tour guide, for example, within an exhibition space such as a museum, so that information corresponding to a respective exhibited object is displayed on the smartphone.

In addition, a particular area of application for this navigation system is shopping centers, where content is expediently made available, for example information on special offers, etc.

This navigation system is preferably combined with the data transmission system described above with the aid of the at least three devices uplink, crosslink and OLS, especially for use inside buildings, for example.

According to a further independently inventive variant according to claim 33, which can preferably be combined with the previously described concept of location determination via the OLS units and / or with the (central) system (uplink crosslink OLS), there is also a system for local, location-specific provision provided by content such as image, text and sound.

This system for the location-specific provision of content has at least one and preferably more than one OLS unit, via which the content can be sent to a receiver with the aid of an optical data signal. The system also has a portable data transmitter, in particular a tablet or a smartphone, which is designed for wireless transmission of the content to the OLS, in particular by means of an optical data signal. The OLS continues preferably a local memory for storing the transmitted content, ie a local memory unit is formed in the housing of the OLS. Alternatively, the local OLS is assigned a storage space in a network.

It is of particular importance that content can be “uploaded” to the local OLS without problems via the data transmitter and that this content is then also made available again locally via this OLS or a group of neighboring OLS units.

The data transmitter therefore represents a type of remote control, for example a smartphone / tablet, which is connected to a transmission module described above and via which the content can be transmitted wirelessly to the OLS, for example via Bluetooth / WLAN / IR.

This creates a particularly simple system for making site-specific, local content available in a targeted manner. For example, this system is used to enable a local operator, for example a shop operator, to upload content such as advertising offers, etc. to a shopping arcade or some other public space.

In this case, the system preferably has several OLS or several groups of OLS, which are arranged distributed over the public space, the individual OLS or the individual groups of OLS not exchanging the locally uploaded data with one another.

As an alternative to this, a central system is provided in which a local upload of the content via a local OLS is permitted and provided (with corresponding access rights) and in which the content is centrally managed and available via several (all) OLS or several groups of OLS be asked.

This system with the OLS and the uploading of content is on the one hand preferably combined with the previously described system for location and / or navigation.

As an alternative or in addition, it is combined with the system for optical data transmission via several OLS and in particular the uplink-crosslink-OLS chain.

The features of claim 29 and the features of claims 30 to 33 can each be individually combined with the features described above, i.e. in particular also with the individual features of the individual claims 1 to 28, without necessarily requiring the entire combination of features of claim 1 is required. The system for local uploading and provision of content and / or the system for location / navigation or the system with the uplink-crosslink-OLS chain are used in particular inside buildings, but are not limited to this and can also be used outdoors become. A mixed use of this system inside buildings and outdoors is also specifically provided, ie the components belonging to the system, in particular the OLS, are partly located in one or more buildings and partly outdoors.

For example, the systems are also used in city centers for outdoor navigation in combination with indoor navigation, e.g. to navigate customers through the city center to special points / events / shops / museums, for example from central points such as Train stations.

In a preferred embodiment, the system - regardless of the variant - is designed so that the respective OLS is set up to receive a start signal and that data transmission via optical data transmission from the OLS to the receiver is then started as a function of the start signal.

Specifically, it is provided here that information, that is, content such as a text, video, etc., is delivered as required and only on request, that is, when the start signal is received from the receiver. This means that content does not need to be provided continuously, but only as required.

The receiver is therefore preferably also designed accordingly to output such a start signal. The transmission takes place wirelessly, for example via IR, radio and in particular via Bluetooth, since the latter is implemented in the mobile phones and in particular is also functional in the “flight mode” status.

A special APP is installed on the receiver (smartphone / tablet). This shows, for example, which content is made available by the respective OLS. The user can then preferably choose from several contents and “request” this specific content.

Coding is preferably carried out so that the respective OLS transmits the desired content in coded form to an individual recipient. This is particularly advantageous if several users want to access content at the same time, for example in museums. This ensures, for example, that media content, such as a video, is made available to the respective user individually from the start of the media content. Overall, the system is preferably designed as a modular system in the manner of a modular system, which has a large number of different device types, as already explained above. The modular system thus comprises at least two or at least three different types of OLS, which can be used in a suitable manner if necessary. These types are for example:

- a basic OLS battery-operated or connected to a power grid, with a transmitter unit for a location ID.

- An extended basic OLS, which has an internal data memory and a receiving unit for data content, based preferably and optionally on Bluetooth, WLAN, infrared signals, which is transmitted by means of a mobile transmission unit (data transmitter), e.g. a remote control similar to the data content.

- An OLS only with receiving and transmitting unit for the optical data signal, battery-operated or with connection to a power grid

- a combined OLS with an integrated crosslink, battery-operated or with a connection to a power grid

- each of the aforementioned devices with or without a zoom unit for setting the size of the radiation area

- each of the aforementioned devices with an adapter base for arrangement on a rail,

- OLS tower, especially an extendable stand with one of the OLS types mentioned above.

In the same way, different types are also provided for the uplink and / or for the crosslink. At least two or at least three of the following uplink types are provided:

- Basic uplink for plugging into a junction box,

- Telescopic uplink with base area and transmission area that can be moved relative to one another,

- Powerline uplink for plugging into a power socket and with a powerline module for converting an electronic data signal transmitted via the power line into the optical data signal.

At least two of the following types are provided for crosslinks:

- passive basic crosslink with mirror unit,

- Telescopic crosslink with extendable foot,

- Active crosslink with an active transmission unit, which is designed, for example, in the manner of a repeater or amplifier and is also referred to as a crosslink bridge in order to bridge the routes to be transmitted,

- Crosslink tower, in particular an extendable stand with one of the aforementioned crosslink types. Variants of the invention are explained in the following with reference to the drawing. These show in schematic, highly simplified representations:

Figure 1 shows an optical data transmission system within a room,

Figure 2 a telescopic uplink,

FIG. 3 shows an enlarged transmission range of the uplink,

FIG. 4 shows an enlarged illustrated foot area of the uplink,

FIG. 5 an OLS designed as a combined OLS,

Figure 6 shows an embodiment of a data processing device shown as a laptop with a transmitting / receiving module,

FIG. 7 a smartphone with a transmitter / receiver module,

FIG. 8 a send / receive module designed in the manner of a USB stick, FIG. 9 a crosslink with a mirror unit,

Figure 10 shows a variant with stands as well

FIG. 11 shows a simplified representation of a building with several OLS for the delivery of position data.

In the figures, parts that have the same effect are provided with the same reference numerals.

According to FIG. 1, a system 2 for optical data transmission is arranged within a room 4. The system 2 has an uplink 6, a crosslink 8 and, in the exemplary embodiment, several OLS units 10. In room 4, two user workstations are also set up, each with a data processing device 12 designed as a laptop, which is connected to a receiver designed as a receiving module 14. A connection socket, specifically a network socket 18 as a wall socket, is arranged on a wall 16 in a wall area close to the floor. The uplink 6 is connected to this. This converts an electronic data signal provided via the network socket 18 into an optical data signal S. This is transmitted in a targeted manner in the manner of a focused light beam to the crosslink 8 arranged in a corner area on the ceiling side. From there, the optical data signal S is deflected and passed along the ceiling of the room 4 to a first OLS 10.

This is designed as a combined OLS 10, which on the one hand emits the optical data signal S downwards into a radiation area 20 and at the same time forwards it in particular parallel to the ceiling to the nearest OLS 10. This further OLS 10 also emits the optical data signal S in a further emission area 20 downwards. The respective optical data signal S is received by the receiving module 14, converted back into an electronic data signal and, for example, transmitted via the USB port of the data processing device 12 to this for output.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary structure of the uplink 6. This has a base area 22 and a transmission area 24, which are connected to one another via an extendable telescopic rod 26. The telescopic rod 26 is in particular can be pulled out horizontally, i.e. across the wall, so that local obstacles, such as a shelf, can be bypassed. The transmission area 24 has, in turn, a transmission unit 28 which is referred to. The optical data signal S is output via this. The optical data signal S is in each case a focused light beam. In particular, infrared light is used. The transmission unit 28 is therefore essentially an IR transmitter. The transmission unit 28 is adjustable so that the direction of emission for the optical data signal S can be varied in order to be able to set the direction of the beam in a targeted manner. In the exemplary embodiment, a ball joint 30 is provided for this purpose.

FIG. 3 shows, by way of example, an enlarged illustration of such a transmission unit 28. This initially has a transmission light source for outputting the optical data signal S. This is formed in particular by a first (IR) light-emitting diode 32. In addition, the transmission unit 28 has a second luminous element 34 which emits a light beam with visible light parallel to the invisible optical IR rays of the first light-emitting diode 32. This second luminous element 34 is designed, for example, in the manner of a laser pointer and can be switched on and off at least temporarily. The second luminous element 34 is used to make the beam path visible, especially during assembly and adjustment of the system 2.

Furthermore, a third luminous element 36 is provided, which is designed to project a light beam onto the wall 16, the light beam projected onto the wall running parallel to the optical data signals S, so that it is made visible on the wall in particular during the signal transmission.

Furthermore, a control unit 38 is integrated within the transmission unit 28, which controls the individual lighting elements 32, 34, 36.

FIG. 4 shows, by way of example, a possible configuration of the base area 22. In the exemplary embodiment, this initially has a socket 40 for connecting a network cable. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, a plug element 42 is designed for connection to a power socket. On the one hand, a power supply of the uplink 6 takes place via this plug element 42.

If powerline communication is provided, the electronic data signal is transmitted via this plug connection 42. The socket 40, of which several can be provided, can be used to connect the crosslink 8 to the network socket 18 so that electronic data signals transmitted over the cable. As an alternative or in addition, the uplink 6 can generally also be designed in the manner of a router or switch and therefore provide the electronic data signal via the socket 40 or enable connection to a LAN network via this. Furthermore, a module 45 is provided in which the received electronic data is converted into the optical data signal S. In an alternative variant, the module 45 is designed, for example, as a WLAN module and designed for wireless reception and / or wireless transmission of electronic signals.

FIG. 5 shows an example of an OLS 10 in the variant as a combined OLS. This initially has a receiving unit 44 and a transmitting unit 28. The optical data signal S is received via the receiving unit 44 and this is passed on via the transmitting unit 28 to a subsequent OLS 10 or also to a subsequent crosslink 8. The two units 44, 28 are each fastened to a main housing of the OLS 10 via an articulated connection, for example a ball joint 30. Alternatively, these units 44 and 28 can also be arranged directly in the main housing. The optical data signal S is further processed by means of a control unit 38 within the OLS 10, in particular forwarded. This control unit 38 is not absolutely necessary or, alternatively, is designed in a simple manner as mirror optics. The OLS 10 has, as a further transmitter unit 28, an emission unit 48 via which the optical data signal S is emitted downwards in the form of a beam cone in an emission area 20. This emission unit 48 also has a zoom unit 50, via which the size of the emission area 20 can be adjusted.

An energy supply is usually required for the OLS 10. For this purpose, 2 different variants are shown as examples in FIG. 5, typically only one of these being implemented.

According to a first variant, battery operation is provided for self-sufficient operation independently of a power connection. For this purpose, the OLS 10 has a battery compartment 52 in which a battery module 54 can be used in a replaceable manner. The battery riemodul 54 has a battery and is formed in the simplest case by this battery ge. However, the battery is preferably integrated within a module housing which, for example, has recesses in the manner of recessed grips into which a handling device 56 can engage. The handling device 56 is designed in particular in the manner of a telescopic rod with a front gripping element. The handling device 56 is generally used for the remote-controlled exchange of the battery module 54.

As an alternative to this, energy is supplied via a busbar 58 which is mounted on the ceiling. In addition, an adapter 60 is connected to the OLS 10 or part of it. Power lines, which are contacted by the adapter 60 and thus a power supply for the OLS 10, run in the busbar 58. The busbar 58 is, in particular, a lighting rail on which additional lighting elements for room lighting in the manner of spots are used.

Figures 6-8 each show receiver or transmitter for the optical data signals S in different design variants. According to FIG. 6, a transmission module 62 is shown which is connected via a cable connection, for example, to a USB port of a laptop as a data processing device 12. A module for converting the electronic data signals into the optical data signal S is contained within the transmission module 62. The transmission module 62 also contains a light element for generating the optical data signal. The transmission module 62 is preferably also designed as a receiving module 14 for receiving optical data S signals.

Instead of the laptop, a smartphone 64 is provided according to FIG. 7, which in turn is connected via a cable connection to a receiving module 14, which is also designed as a transmitting module 62 at the same time.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the receiving module 14 is designed as an accessory part for the smartphone 64, as has been described above. In particular, the accessory has a cover into which the smartphone can be inserted precisely. The receiver unit (or also the transmitter unit) is integrated in the accessory. The accessory part preferably has, for example, an angled or movable partial area which, for example, adjoins the smartphone at the edge (towards the front, viewed from the user). The receiving unit is arranged in this sub-area. This can therefore be directed to the transmitter (OLS) and the transmitted content can be shown on the display of the tablet / smartphone 64

Instead of a cable connection, the receiving module 14 and also the transmitting module 62 are designed in the manner of a USB stick and have a plug 66, in particular a USB plug, for plugging into a corresponding USB port on the data processing device 12. The plug 66 is included in particular connected to the transmitting unit 28 or receiving unit 44 via a joint, specifically a ball joint 30.

As an alternative to the additional connection of the data processing device 12 to a receiving module 14 and / or sending module 62, the data processing device 12, in particular the smartphone 64, is already provided with an integrated sending unit 28 and / or receiving unit 44. Conventional smartphones 64 are specifically equipped with cameras that are already suitable as receiving units 44. It is only a software adaptation, for example in the form of a suitable APP is required to enable communication via the optical data signals S, which are transmitted by the OLS 10, for example.

In the figure 9, a simple construction form of a crosslink 8 is shown as an example in a simplified representation. This is specifically a passive crosslink 8 that does not require any power supply. This has a Spiegelein unit 68 via which the optical data signal S is deflected. To this extent, the mirror unit 48 forms a receiving and transmitting unit of this simple crosslink 8. In addition, there is also the possibility of providing an active crosslink 8 in which, for example, the optical data signal S is amplified.

FIG. 10 shows an example of a variant in which the individual units are only temporarily installed, for example. For this purpose, stands 70 are provided in particular, which are telescopic and on which a crosslink and an OLS partner are mounted in the exemplary embodiment. An uplink 6 is connected at the bottom via a cable to a network socket (not shown here) and sends the optical data signal S from an area close to the floor to the crosslink 8, which then forwards the data signal S to the OLS 10, which finally sends the data signal S down into the Radiation area 20 radiates.

In the figure 11 an independent inventive idea is sketched, which can be combined with the previously be written system. The independent concept consists in using a plurality of OLS 10 to determine the location of a person 72, in particular within a building, and in a preferred development also for navigation. Especially in connection with the system described above, this position determination system is also used to provide content, in particular location-specific content. Location-specific content is understood to mean information that is assigned to the location at which the person 72 is at the current point in time.

In order to determine the position, provision is made for a unique position ID to be assigned to a respective OLS 10, which is emitted as a data signal S by this respective OLS 10. The different OLS 10 therefore have different position IDs which define the respective location of the respective OLS within the building. These position IDs are received and evaluated by the recipient, in particular a smartphone 64 of the person 72. In particular, an app is integrated in the smartphone 64 for this purpose, which contains in particular a map or a building plan of the building and in which the position in the map is assigned to the known position of the OLS 10, so that the current position on the display of the Smartphones 64 is displayed. In particular, the position is recorded continuously, so that when the person 72 comes into the detection area of the next OLS 10, the position is changed accordingly. In a preferred embodiment, navigation in a conventional manner is made available on the basis of this position data, similar to GPS data. This means that a corresponding navigation app is installed on the smartphone, and via communication with it, the person 72 can enter desired destinations within the building and be guided there.

The site-specific content already mentioned is preferably provided. In particular, a navigation designed in the manner of a tour guide is provided, which guides the person 72 to selected locations. Site-specific content is made available for each of these selected locations. This is particularly important for museums or other exhibition venues. In shopping centers, too, content such as advertising offers or other information can be made available.

The inventive concepts have been described using exemplary embodiments. However, these concepts are not limited to this. All combinations and subcombinations of the individual aspects described are also the subject of the present disclosure, unless this is excluded.

According to a further, independently inventive variant, which can be combined both with the previously described concept of location determination via the OLS units and / or with the (central) system (uplink crosslink OLS), there is also a system for the local, location-specific provision of content , such as image, text and sound, as claimed in claim 33 and has already been described above.

Claims

Expectations

1. System for data transmission, in particular within a room that has wel ches

- A first unit, referred to as an uplink, which is designed to receive an electrical data signal and convert it into an optical data signal and to output it,

- a second unit called OLS for receiving and outputting the optical data signal to a receiver, in which the optical data are processed,

- A third unit, referred to as a crosslink, which is designed to receive the optical data signals from the uplink and to forward the optical data signals to the OLS.

2. System according to the preceding claim, which is mounted within a room and the room has a floor, a ceiling and walls and the uplink in a wall area close to the floor, the crosslink in a room area close to the ceiling, in particular a wall area close to the ceiling or on the ceiling , and the OLS are arranged on the ceiling.

3. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the uplink egg NEN connector for connection to a network cable and / or for connection to a power socket for receiving the electronic data and a module for converting the data received via the connector into the optical Has data signal.

4. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the uplink has a socket for connecting a network cable and is preferably designed in the manner of a router / switch

5. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the uplink has a WLAN module which is designed to receive the electronic data signal and / or to output an electronic data signal.

6. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the uplink can be connected via a cable, in particular via a USB plug, to a feed device via which the electronic data signal is made available.

7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the uplink has a base area and a transmission area which are opposite to one another in particular linearly displaceable, for example with the help of a Teleskopele element are adjustable.

8. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the devices uplink, crosslink and the OLS each have an output unit for the optical data signal, and the output unit at least one of these three devices is adjustable, preferably adjustable about several axes, so that a direction of emission of the optical data signal can be set.

9. System according to the preceding claim, in which at least the output unit of the OLS has a zoom unit via which the size of an emission area for the optical data signal can be varied.

10. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the OLS unit is an independent structural unit which, in addition to functions in connection with optical data transmission, has no further functional elements, in particular no lighting element for room lighting.

11. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the OLS unit is designed for battery operation and has a battery compartment for a battery.

12. System according to the preceding claim, in which the battery is arranged removable bar and a handling device, in particular an operating rod is provided, which is designed for remotely controllable replacement of the battery.

13. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the OLS has an integrated crosslink and is designed as a combined OLS, so that the combined OLS is designed to output and forward the data signal in two different directions.

14. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which several OLS are arranged at different positions, which radiate into different spatial areas.

15. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the OLS can be operated remotely.

16. System according to one of the preceding claims, which is designed for optical cal data transmission with the aid of invisible light.

17. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which at least one of the devices selected from uplink, crosslink and OLS has at least one luminous element which at least temporarily emits a visible light signal in the direction of the optical data transmission to the light path for the optical Display data transfer

18. System according to the preceding claim, in which the luminous element is designed such that the course of the optical data signal is projected onto a wall.

19. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which an adapter foot is provided for insertion into a rail and the OLS and / or the uplink can be connected to the adapter foot or has it.

20. System according to the preceding claim, in which the adapter foot is designed for insertion into a busbar and for supplying the OLS and / or the uplink with electrical power via the busbar.

21. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the OLS a

Connection socket for a data cable and, in particular, a module for converting optical data signals into electronic data signals.

22. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the crosslink has an in particular adjustable mirror unit.

23. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which a plurality of crosslinks are arranged between the Up link and OLS.

24. System according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least one module selected from a receiving module and a transmitting module, the receiving module for receiving the optical data signals and converting them into an electronic data signal and the transmitting module for converting an electronic data signal into one optical data signal and its output is formed, and wherein the respective module is designed for connection in particular by means of a connector element with a data processing device 25. System according to the preceding claim, in which the respective module selected from the receiving module and the transmitting module, a receiving unit or the transmitting unit has, which are articulated and in particular via a

Joint is connected to a plug which is designed to be plugged into the output device.

26. System according to one of the two preceding claims, in which the data processing device is a portable device such as a smartphone or a tablet and the module is designed as an accessory part, wel ches a cover for the portable device or other fastening element on the housing of the portable device, and the accessory has the transmitting and / or receiving unit for the optical data signal.

27. System according to one of the preceding claims, which further comprises a powerline device which is designed for wireless or wired reception of the electronic data signal and which is designed for plugging into a power socket and for transmitting the electronic data signal via the power line.

28. System according to one of the preceding claims, which has at least one stand which is designed for fastening one of the devices selected from uplink, crosslink and OLS and which is in particular adjustable in height.

29. System, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, which is designed to determine the location of a user and for this purpose has a plurality of units designated as OLS for outputting an optical data signal to a receiver, in which the optical data are processed, the respective OLS for outputting a specific position ID identifying the location of the OLS is established via the optical data signal.

30. System according to the preceding claim, in which the receiver is a portable device, in particular a smartphone or a tablet.

31. System according to one of the two preceding claims, in which a navigation program is provided for execution on the receiver, which provides an output of the current location and in particular a navigation based on the position IDs.

32. System according to one of the three preceding claims, in which the OLS is also designed to deliver additional content via the optical data signal and provides location-specific additional information to the receiver.

33. System, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, which is designed for the location-specific provision of content, such as text, images and sound, and for this purpose at least one and preferably several units designated as OLS for outputting an optical data signal to a receiver for the transmission of the content wherein a portable data transmitter is also provided which is designed for wireless transmission of the content to the OLS, in particular by means of an optical data signal, and wherein the OLS preferably has a local memory for storing the transmitted content.

34. System according to one of the preceding claims, in which the OLS is designed to receive a start signal from the receiver and, when such a start signal is received, a specific data transmission to the receiver is started.