The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) recently announced it is conducting research on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) into Internet of Things (IoT) upgradeable lighting that includes a proposed manufacturer challenge. The IoT-Upgradeable Lighting Challenge seeks development of LED lighting products that are energy-efficient, provide quality lighting, can be upgraded to accommodate IoT capabilities in the future and can be produced at a low incremental cost compared to non-upgradeable lighting.
Today, LED lighting typically lacks the capability to be upgraded to include sensors, controls, or IoT applications without significant investment, modification, or replacement. This represents a lost opportunity for building owners who may want to add IoT technologies in the future. PNNL's research and challenge aim to address these issues.
The challenge's performance requirements focus on the physical connections and data exchange between LED drivers and installed IoT sensors or modules. LED drivers must be D4i-compliant as specified by the Digital Illumination Interface Alliance (DIIA). The interface between the luminaire (or kit) with the IoT sensor or module must be compliant with the Zhaga Book 20 standard. They also address efficacy, color qualities and flicker elements to ensure high efficiency and quality of light.
In addition, PNNL is seeking feedback from industry and other interested parties on draft performance requirements for the challenge. Visit the PNNL challenge website for more information regarding the challenge's draft performance requirements. Comments and feedback are due by August 10 to [email protected].
Additionally, PNNL will host a webinar providing further information at 11 a.m. PST on Thursday, July 30. Registration is now open.