Smart Lighting through Bluetooth Mesh Network
Smart lighting continues to grow as a lighting technology focused on convenience, energy efficiency and security through high efficiency fixtures, automated controls and cost effective lighting systems. The case for wireless commercial lighting systems is well understood given that wired systems are costly, “not very flexible” and have very little extensibility. Bluetooth and specifically Bluetooth Mesh Network is a key player in taking this to the next level.
Bluetooth & the Bluetooth Mesh Network
Bluetooth has been in existence since 2000 and based on a “Bluetooth Brand Equity Study” done by Lux Insights in 2016 “92% of global consumers recognize the powerful Bluetooth brand.” Fast-forward to 2021 and with the previous in mind, the question is, “What can Bluetooth offer the world of Commercial LED Lighting?”
The case for wireless commercial lighting systems is well understood given that wired systems are costly, “not very flexible” and have very little extensibility. Bluetooth Mesh Networking was introduced back in July of 2017 as “…the most robust and powerful low-power radio technology for connected lighting in commercial spaces, and it is the change the lighting industry has been waiting for,” – said Rafal Han, CEO, Silvair. (Source: Introducing Bluetooth Mesh Networking)
Current solutions such as sensors and controls can extend Bluetooth range but mesh networking brings the ultimate solution to complex range and limit problems. We also know that many commercial buildings today have light levels that are set higher than appropriate for their space or spaces and remain lit even when unoccupied; this causes them to be over-lit. Thus, energy is wasted and a sort of “discomfort” is felt. This can be fixed by adding smart lighting and energy-efficient light control solutions and doing so through the Bluetooth Mesh Network.
The support for common lighting requirements and interoperability across a variety of products from different vendors make Bluetooth mesh more than just another “wireless data communication system”. For example, commercial lighting products can include “non-lighting” features such as sensor support and this can work seamlessly and directly with the light’s primary features in a manner that is fully integrated; all this without the need for external controllers.
Beyond that, according to “Motivation for Mesh Networking” as written on www.bluetooth.com, Bluetooth mesh networking offers:
- It is scalable from small to very large areas
- “Just works interoperability”
- The ability to monitor and control large numbers of devices
- Optimized, low energy consumption
- Efficient use of radio resources, leading to scalability
- Compatibility with currently available smartphone, tablet and personal computer products
- Industry-standard, government-grade security
We invite you to browse through our Bluetooth Mesh ready devices.
ATG & Smart Lighting
As a leader in the industry, ATG is not only aware of this great news but has joined together with McWong International to introduce Bluetooth Mesh Solutions. We are introducing a new wireless control platform based on McWong’s TruBlu™ DLC-certified, SIG-qualified Bluetooth mesh. TruBlu™ system components include a Bluetooth mesh enabled, bi-level dimming, indoor/outdoor PIR/microwave/ultrasonic sensor w/ load switch, a Bluetooth mesh enabled, bi-level dimming, single or dual channel fixture controller, a Bluetooth mesh enabled, wireless wall switch, a low voltage power supply, and a low voltage power pack w/ relay. TruBlu commissioning tools, utilizing McWong’s technology partner Silvair’s software interface provides for a PC & iOS phone app for setup & commissioning, drag & drop from site plans or floorplans, grouping/dimming/white tuning/daylighting/remote accessing/energy monitoring, three levels of security access, and automatic fixture location.
Wireless Lighting Controls
