阅读说明：本技术 用于测量占用者水平温度的系统和方法 (System and method for measuring occupant horizontal temperature ) 是由 L·范德尔坦佩尔 B·J·普龙克 K·J·G·霍尔特曼 H·布罗尔斯 于 2020-03-20 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种用于通过补偿由环境空气和/或电子加热引起的温度传感器的发热来确定环境(200)的区域(220/230)中的温度的方法(300),方法(300)使用系统(100),系统(100)包括：(i)结构(110)；(ii)控制器(130)；以及(iii)温度传感器(120),所述方法包括：当所述结构在第一操作模式下时,获得(320)第一温度测量；将所述结构的第一操作模式改变(330)为第二操作模式；当所述结构在第二操作模式下时,获得(340)第二温度测量；确定(350)温度校正,所述温度校正包括第二操作模式对温度传感器的影响；在所述结构在第二操作模式下的操作期间获得(360)新温度测量；以及使用温度校正来调整(370)新温度测量,以生成经补偿的温度测量。(A method (300) for determining a temperature in a region (220/230) of an environment (200) by compensating for heating of a temperature sensor caused by ambient air and/or electronic heating, the method (300) using a system (100), the system (100) comprising: (i) a structure (110); (ii) a controller (130); and (iii) a temperature sensor (120), the method comprising: obtaining (320) a first temperature measurement while the structure is in a first mode of operation; changing (330) a first mode of operation of the structure to a second mode of operation; obtaining (340) a second temperature measurement when the structure is in a second mode of operation; determining (350) a temperature correction comprising an effect of the second mode of operation on the temperature sensor; obtaining (360) a new temperature measurement during operation of the structure in the second mode of operation; and adjusting (370) the new temperature measurement using the temperature correction to generate a compensated temperature measurement.)

1. A method (300) for determining a temperature in an area (220/230) of an environment (200) by compensating for heating of a temperature sensor caused by ambient air and/or electronic heating, the method (300) using a system (100), the system (100) comprising: (i) a structure (110) in the environment; (ii) a controller (130); and (iii) a temperature sensor (120) associated with the structure, the method comprising:

obtaining (320) one or more first temperature measurements using a temperature sensor while the structure is in a first mode of operation;

changing (330) a first mode of operation of the structure to a second mode of operation;

obtaining (340) one or more second temperature measurements using the temperature sensor while the structure is in a second mode of operation;

determining (350), by the controller, a temperature correction using the one or more first temperature measurements and the one or more second temperature measurements, the temperature correction comprising an effect of a second mode of operation of the structure on the temperature sensor;

after determining the temperature correction, obtaining (360) a new temperature measurement during operation of the structure in the second mode of operation using the temperature sensor; and

adjusting (370) the new temperature measurement using the temperature correction to generate a compensated temperature measurement,

wherein the first mode of operation is a first dimming level of the luminaire and the second mode of operation is a second dimming level of the luminaire, the first and second dimming levels being different dimming levels.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

transmitting (380) the compensated temperature measurement.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein temperature corrections are determined for a plurality of operating modes of the structure.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of determining a temperature correction further comprises modifying a pre-existing temperature correction model associated with the structure.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a sensor cartridge (122), the sensor cartridge (122) comprising the temperature sensor, and wherein the sensor cartridge is associated with the structure.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the temperature correction compensates for heat generated by a controller of the system.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of determining a temperature correction comprises one or more temperature measurements from adjacent structures.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the temperature correction comprises a first order thermal model.

9. A system (100) configured to determine a temperature in an area (220/230) of an environment by compensating for heating of a temperature sensor caused by ambient air and/or electronic heating, comprising:

a structure (110) in the environment;

a controller (130);

a temperature sensor (120) associated with the structure and configured to obtain: (i) one or more first temperature measurements while the structure is in the first mode of operation; and (ii) one or more second temperature measurements while the structure is in a second mode of operation; and is

The controller (130) is configured to: (i) changing a first mode of operation of the structure to a second mode of operation; (ii) determining a temperature correction using the one or more first temperature measurements and the one or more second temperature measurements, the temperature correction comprising an effect of a second mode of operation of the structure on a temperature sensor; and (iii) adjusting a new temperature measurement obtained during operation of the structure in the second mode of operation using the temperature correction to generate a compensated temperature measurement,

wherein the first mode of operation is a first dimming level of the luminaire and the second mode of operation is a second dimming level of the luminaire, the first and second dimming levels being different dimming levels.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the controller is further configured to direct the system to communicate the compensated temperature measurement.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the system comprises a sensor cartridge (122), the sensor cartridge (122) comprising the temperature sensor, and wherein the sensor cartridge is associated with the structure.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the sensor cartridge comprises a second sensor different from the temperature sensor.

13. The system of claim 9, wherein the temperature correction compensates for heat generated by a controller of the system.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for determining air temperature at a room occupant level using a temperature sensor located remotely from the room occupant level.

Background

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems typically rely on room temperature measurements using wall mounted sensors and thermostats. The temperature sensor is typically positioned somewhere in the room away from the doors and windows, typically at a level close to the average height of the human head. The air temperature there is found to generally represent the perceived air temperature of the entire room, despite sunlight and air currents.

However, wall-mounted temperature sensors have several limitations. For example, they require additional effort and cost because they are installed into or onto a wall surface. This requires HVAC design, wiring and equipment installation, typically by HVAC experts. Additionally, in large spaces, it would be challenging or impossible for a wall-mounted temperature sensor to accurately measure the temperature of a central area of a room.

Temperature sensors may be positioned within and/or otherwise associated with a room to provide temperature measurements at a wide variety of locations, including large spaces. For example, the temperature sensor may be mounted on or in a light fixture, ceiling tile, fan, other ceiling structure, lighting assembly, and other structures in a space. In some cases, the association of the temperature sensor with a structure in the space enables a quick installation of the temperature sensor. As one example, the sensor may be associated with a sensing device mounted to a ceiling. Within the connected lighting infrastructure, one can find, among many other options, the following sensors: associated with or integrated within a luminaire and/or lighting element and/or associated with or integrated within a device such as a security camera, or as a stand-alone sensor. According to other devices, the independent sensor may comprise an embedded lighting unit that affects a temperature sensor, such as a security camera with active illumination or a time-of-flight camera.

Existing systems using temperature sensors include several problems. For example, a temperature sensor located at or near the ceiling will be affected by thermal stratification of the air in the space. In fact, under hot ceiling-mounted lighting fixtures or similar building elements, there will typically be a significant thermal boundary layer. Even more problematic is that the temperature sensor is subject to thermal conduction and radiation from power sinks (such as LEDs, drivers and signal processors), causing the sensor to obtain an artificially high reading.

While sensors such as non-contact infrared temperature sensors can obtain sensor readings remotely from within a space, the use of these sensors creates several important limitations. For example, infrared temperature sensors obtain measurements from surfaces such as desks or tables, which may experience significant temperature change hysteresis and therefore do not provide accurate readings. Furthermore, temperature sensors are less accurate and more expensive than other temperature sensors, and require a vision lens.

Accordingly, there is a continuing need in the art for sensor systems and methods that enable a temperature sensor to accurately determine the temperature of a space.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure relates to inventive methods and apparatus for detecting occupant-level air temperature of a space using one or more temperature sensors. Various embodiments and implementations herein relate to a system including a temperature sensor associated with a light fixture or other structure that may generate heat. The temperature sensor obtains a temperature reading when the harness or other structure undergoes a state change (such as on or off) or changes in settings or modes. Alternatively, during this calibration period, other sensors (such as adjacent sensors in adjacent luminaires) may be used to detect the temperature of the space, among other things. As yet another example, the system may extrapolate the temperature change over the calibration period given the start/end temperature. The system uses these temperature readings to analyze the effect of the state change on the temperature sensor and determine a temperature correction that accounts for the effect. The system may use the determined temperature correction to modify a new temperature reading when the structure undergoes the same state change. According to an embodiment, the temperature correction may apply a convolution of the measured step/ramp or other response with the dimming history.

In general, in one aspect, a method is provided for determining a temperature in an ambient area by compensating for heating of a temperature sensor caused by ambient air and/or electronic heating. The method comprises the following steps: (i) providing a system comprising a structure in an environment; a controller; and a temperature sensor associated with the structure; (ii) obtaining one or more first temperature measurements using a temperature sensor when the structure is in a first mode of operation; (iii) changing a first mode of operation of the structure to a second mode of operation; (iv) obtaining one or more second temperature measurements using the temperature sensor while the structure is in the second mode of operation; (v) determining, by the controller, a temperature correction using the one or more first temperature measurements and the one or more second temperature measurements, the temperature correction comprising an effect of a second mode of operation of the structure on the temperature sensor; (vi) after determining the temperature correction, obtaining a new temperature measurement during operation of the structure in the second mode of operation using the temperature sensor; and (vii) adjusting the new temperature measurement using the temperature correction to generate a compensated temperature measurement.

According to an embodiment, the method further comprises communicating the compensated temperature measurement.

According to an embodiment, a temperature correction is determined for a plurality of operating modes of the structure.

According to an embodiment, the step of determining a temperature correction further comprises modifying a pre-existing temperature correction model associated with the structure.

According to an embodiment, the system comprises a sensor cartridge comprising a temperature sensor, wherein the sensor cartridge is associated with the structure.

According to an embodiment, the temperature correction compensates for heat generated by a controller of the system.

According to an embodiment, the step of determining a temperature correction comprises one or more temperature measurements from adjacent structures.

According to an embodiment, the first operation mode is a first dimming level of the luminaire and the second operation mode is a second dimming level of the luminaire, the first and second dimming levels being different dimming levels.

According to an embodiment, the temperature correction comprises a first order thermal model.

According to one aspect is a system configured to determine a temperature in an environmental region by compensating for heating of a temperature sensor caused by ambient air and/or electronic heating. The system comprises: a structure in the environment; a controller; a temperature sensor associated with the structure and configured to obtain: (i) one or more first temperature measurements while the structure is in the first mode of operation; and (ii) one or more second temperature measurements while the structure is in a second mode of operation; and the controller is configured to: (i) changing a first mode of operation of the structure to a second mode of operation; (ii) determining a temperature correction using the one or more first temperature measurements and the one or more second temperature measurements, the temperature correction comprising an effect of a second mode of operation of the structure on a temperature sensor; and (iii) adjusting a new temperature measurement obtained during operation of the structure in the second mode of operation using the temperature correction to generate a compensated temperature measurement.

According to an embodiment, the controller is further configured to direct the system to transmit the compensated temperature measurement.

According to an embodiment, the system comprises a sensor cartridge comprising a temperature sensor, and wherein the sensor cartridge is associated with the structure. According to an embodiment, the sensor cartridge comprises a second sensor different from the temperature sensor.

In various implementations, a processor or controller may be associated with one or more storage media (collectively referred to herein as "memory," e.g., volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM, PROM, EPROM and EEPROM, floppy disks, compact disks, optical disks, magnetic tape, etc.). In some implementations, the storage medium may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and/or controllers, perform at least some of the functions discussed herein. Various storage media may be fixed within a processor or controller or may be transportable, such that the one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into a processor or controller to implement various aspects of the present invention discussed herein. The terms "program" or "computer program" are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code (e.g., software or microcode) that can be employed to program one or more processors or controllers.

In one network implementation, one or more devices coupled to the network may act as controllers (e.g., in a master/slave relationship) for one or more other devices coupled to the network. In another implementation, a networked environment may include one or more dedicated controllers configured to control one or more devices coupled to the network. In general, a plurality of devices coupled to a network may each have access to data present on one or more communication media; however, a given device may be "addressable" in that it is configured to selectively exchange data with (i.e., receive data from and/or transmit data to) the network based on, for example, one or more particular identifiers (e.g., "addresses") assigned to it.

The term "network" as used herein refers to any interconnection of two or more devices (including controllers or processors) that facilitates the transport of information (e.g., for device control, data storage, data exchange, etc.) between any two or more devices and/or between multiple devices coupled to the network. As should be readily appreciated, various implementations of networks suitable for interconnecting multiple devices may include any of a variety of network topologies and employ any of a variety of communication protocols. Additionally, in various networks according to the present disclosure, any one connection between two devices may represent a dedicated connection, or alternatively, a non-dedicated connection, between the two systems. In addition to carrying information for both devices, such a non-dedicated connection may also carry information that is not necessarily intended for either of the two devices (e.g., an open network connection). Further, it should be readily appreciated that various networks of devices as discussed herein may employ one or more wireless, wired/cable, and/or fiber optic links to facilitate the transport of information throughout the network.

It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. It will also be appreciated that terms explicitly employed herein that may also appear in any disclosure incorporated by reference should be accorded the most consistent meaning with the specific concepts disclosed herein.

Drawings

In the drawings, like reference numerals generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. Furthermore, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system within an environment according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system within an environment according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system within an environment according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system within an environment according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a temperature measurement system within an environment according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a method for temperature sensing according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a graph of a temperature sensing method according to an embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a graph of temperature measurements inside a sensor cartridge according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a graph of temperature measurements inside a sensor cartridge according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a graph of a compensation curve for heating a sensor cartridge according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a graph using a compensation curve for heating a sensor cartridge according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a schematic representation of the generation and application of a temperature correction model according to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a schematic representation of the generation and application of a temperature correction model according to an embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a schematic representation of the generation and application of a temperature correction model according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a temperature diagram of a print control plate according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a graph of measured temperature gradients and differences according to an embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a graph comparing extrapolation to air temperature measurements according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure describes various embodiments of a system configured to obtain temperature readings using a temperature sensor. More generally, applicants have recognized that it would be beneficial to provide a temperature sensing system that enables occupant-level temperature detection without requiring an occupant-level temperature sensor. A particular object of utilizing certain embodiments of the present disclosure is to characterize occupant-level temperature of a space using affordable and easily installed sensors associated with a light or other structure in the space.

In view of the foregoing, various embodiments and implementations relate to systems having temperature sensors associated with a light fixture or other structure. For example, the temperature sensor may be integrated into or associated with a sensor module for the environment, which in turn may be integrated into or otherwise associated with a luminaire, lighting assembly, another sensor, a ceiling-based structure (such as a ceiling tile, fan, or other ceiling structure), or otherwise associated with a structure in a space. The sensor module may include more than one type of sensor. A controller of the system receives and analyzes the temperature sensor information to determine the effect of the temperature sensor from the light fixtures or other structures that generate heat. The system can then use the temperature correction to modify the new temperature reading while the structure is generating heat.

Such a system may be mounted in any structure within a space, and/or in a sensor cartridge optionally associated with the structure, and may include an affordable temperature sensor. The system enables accurate detection of occupant-level temperature, despite among other problems thermal stratification, thermal boundary layers, tending heating and/or internal heat diffusion.

Referring to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, is a temperature sensing system 100. The temperature sensing system includes a structure 110 having one or more temperature sensors 120 and a controller 130 associated or integrated with the structure 110. The system may optionally include an environmental control system 150 in communication with the temperature sensor and/or the controller. Many other configurations and embodiments are possible.

The associated or integrated temperature sensor or sensors 120 may be any sensor or element that obtains thermal information. By way of non-limiting example, the temperature sensor 120 may be a non-radiative local temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple or thermistor, among other examples. The temperature sensor 120 may be located proximate to the structure 110, associated with the structure 110, and/or integrated into the structure 110. The structure 110 may be any component or structure within an environment. According to one embodiment, the structure 110 is proximate to, associated with, and/or integrated into an upper space or ceiling of a room or similar environment. According to another embodiment, the structure 110 is mounted on or within a wall, in or on a piece of furniture or other object in a room, or positioned elsewhere within a space. For example, the structure 110 is a structure that can generate heat or cold that affects the temperature of the system, such as a light fixture, a lighting assembly, a speaker, a screen, and/or any other component, electronic device, or structure. For example, this temperature change may be a change in the ambient air near the sensor and the sensor housing, among other possibilities. In the case of a light fixture, as just one example, the drive electronics and the LEDs generate heat that warms up the housing material, and the heat is transferred to the temperature sensor via conduction. Thus, even if the sensor is not heated via ambient air, as in the case of a wall-mounted luminaire where hot air rises away from the sensor, the methods and systems described or otherwise contemplated herein will work to compensate for the heating of the sensor itself.

According to another embodiment, the temperature sensor 120 may be integrated into the sensor module or cartridge 122, and the sensor module or cartridge 122 may optionally contain one or more sensors in addition to the temperature sensor. For example, the sensor module may include a sensor bundle that monitors space usage and environmental conditions using several sensing modalities. The sensor module may be integral to the structure, or may be located proximate to the structure, or may be directly connected to or otherwise mounted on the structure. Other sensing modalities of the sensor module may be anything that facilitates space monitoring, including but not limited to light sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, sound sensors, occupancy sensors, and/or any other sensors.

The temperature sensor 120 may continuously and/or periodically obtain thermal information. For example, the sensor may be configured or programmed to always obtain thermal information. The sensor may be configured to obtain thermal information at any frequency, such as once per second, once per minute, once every five minutes, once every 15 minutes, or any other interval. The frequency need not be a fixed value and may optionally be modifiable by a user or installer of the system. For example, the system may be configured or programmed to obtain thermal information at different frequencies throughout a day, week, or other time frame. As an example, the thermal sensor may obtain thermal information at a higher frequency during the day when the space is more likely to be occupied and at a lower frequency during the night when the space is less likely to be occupied. The intended use of the space may also affect the frequency with which the thermal sensor obtains thermal information. For example, if the space is only for wednesday meetings, the system may be configured or programmed to obtain thermal information before and after wednesday meetings and/or at a higher frequency. The system may be integrated with a scheduled calendar to increase thermal sensor activity during times when the space is scheduled to be utilized and to limit or stop thermal sensor activity when the space is not scheduled to be utilized.

According to another embodiment, the temperature sensor 120 may be configured to obtain thermal information, including at a particular rate or frequency, depending in whole or in part on the operation or mode of the structure 110 positioned proximate the sensor. For example, the temperature sensor 120 may be configured or controlled to obtain thermal information based on when a structure is closed or open and/or when a mode or other parameter of the structure is modified and/or to adjust parameters that affect how thermal information is obtained. The temperature sensor may be configured or controlled to begin obtaining and/or transmitting thermal information when the structure is active and, thus, can affect the temperature of the space. The temperature sensor may be configured or controlled to start or stop obtaining and/or transmitting thermal information when a parameter of the structure is adjusted.

In the case of a light fixture that generates heat and affects the local temperature of the space, thereby affecting the temperature of the sensor 120 and/or the ambient temperature surrounding the sensor, the sensor may be configured or controlled to obtain thermal information under certain guidelines. The sensor may continuously obtain information or may start obtaining information when the harness is turned on and stop obtaining information when the harness is turned off. The sensor may obtain information continuously or at a particular rate as the intensity of the harness increases or decreases.

According to an embodiment, the system 100 may include a wired or wireless communication module 140 configured to communicate thermal information obtained from one or more temperature sensors 120 and modified by the system as described in detail herein to another portion of the system, to another structure 110, a sensor panel, and/or to an environmental control system 150. The environmental control system may be any system, program, or other control configured to manage or direct a spatial environment. Accordingly, a building or other structure may include a plurality of temperature sensors 120, each temperature sensor 120 being associated with a different structure that is in communication with the central structure 110, the central sensor panel, and/or the environmental control system 150. For example, a building or other structure may include multiple structures in one or more rooms. An office building may include many rooms and offices, many or all of which may include one or more structures having one or more temperature sensors 120. The collection and use of temperature information obtained from the structure may be on a room-by-room basis, on an area basis, on a floor-by-floor basis, on a building basis, and/or any other organizational structure.

The system and/or temperature sensor may be wired to another part of the system, the structure 110, the sensor panel, and/or the environmental control system, or may communicate via a wireless protocol, such as Wi-Fi, bluetooth, IR, radio, near field communication, and/or any other protocol. The temperature sensor may be configured or programmed to continuously or periodically transmit information, and the frequency may be adjusted based on various factors including those discussed herein. The temperature sensor may also be configured or programmed to provide thermal or other information in response to a query for information.

The controller 130 may include a processor 132, the processor 132 being programmed with software to perform one or more of the various functions discussed herein, and may be utilized in combination with a memory 134. The memory 134 may store: data, including one or more commands or software programs for execution by processor 132; and various types of data, including but not limited to thermal information obtained by temperature sensors; and any other information collected by any other sensors in the system. For example, memory 134 may be a non-transitory computer readable storage medium that includes a set of instructions executable by processor 132 and that causes the system to perform one or more steps of the methods described herein.

The system 100, and in particular the temperature sensor 120 and the controller 130, also include a power source, most typically an AC power source, although other power sources are possible, including a DC power source, a solar-based power source, or a mechanical-based power source, among others. The power source may be in operable communication with a power converter that converts power received from an external power source into a form usable by the lighting unit. To provide power to the various components of the system, it may also include an AC/DC converter (e.g., a rectifier circuit) that receives AC power from an external AC power source and converts it to direct current for the purpose of powering the components of the system. Additionally, the system may include an energy storage device, such as a rechargeable battery or capacitor, that is charged via a connection to the AC/DC converter and may provide power to the temperature sensor 120 and the controller 130 when the circuit to the AC power source is broken.

The system 100 may include many different configurations. For example, referring to FIG. 1, the system includes a structure 110, such as a luminaire having a controller 130 and a temperature sensor 120, the temperature sensor 120 being integrated into or associated with the structure. Referring to another embodiment in fig. 2, the system includes a structure 110 with an integrated sensor cartridge 122, where the controller 130 and the temperature sensor 120 are elements of the sensor cartridge. In contrast, in the embodiment in fig. 3, the system includes a structure 110 having a controller and an integrated or associated sensor cartridge 122 having a temperature sensor 120. Referring to the embodiment depicted in fig. 4, for example, the system includes a structure 110 and further includes a temperature sensor 120 (with or without a sensor cartridge 122) in communication with the structure. The temperature sensor 120 (alone or via the sensor cartridge 122) may be in wired and/or wireless communication with the structure even if the temperature sensor and/or the sensor cartridge are attached to or integrated with the structure. Referring to yet another embodiment depicted in fig. 5, the system includes a structure 110 and further includes a temperature sensor 120 (with or without a sensor cartridge 122) in communication with both the structure and the environmental control system. In the embodiment depicted in fig. 6, the system includes the structure 110 and further includes a temperature sensor 120 (with or without a sensor cartridge 122). In addition to these non-limiting examples, many other embodiments and configurations are possible.

Referring to FIG. 7, in one embodiment is an environment 200 that includes the temperature sensing system 100. In this example, the temperature sensing system 100 includes two ceiling structures 110a and 110b, each having a respective one or more temperature sensors 120. The ceiling structure may be any structure proximate to the upper portion 220 of the space 210, within the upper portion 220, or otherwise positioned at the upper portion 220. For example, the ceiling structure may be a pendant or other structure. For example, there may be optimal placement of the ceiling structure and/or sensors, which may depend on many factors such as the size and shape of the environment 200. For example, the sensors may be positioned to allow the entire environment 200 to be analyzed by one or more sensors, and this will be at least partially informed of the size and/or shape of the environment. The sensors may also be positioned to analyze only a portion of the environment 200. This configuration may be predetermined using maps, blueprints, or other information about the environment, or may be determined during installation and/or testing of the system. For example, if the original placement is determined to be not optimal, or if the usage of the room changes over time, the configuration may be modified or adjusted later.

Space 210 may be any space for which temperature monitoring and/or conditioning is desired or required, such as an office, a lobby, a bathroom, a closet, a conference room, and/or any other room or space. The space includes an upper portion 220 in the region above the space 210. Although shown as approximately half of the space 210, the upper portion may be taller or shorter than the area shown in FIG. 7. The space includes a lower portion 230 in a lower region of the space 210. Although shown as approximately half of the space 210, the lower portion may be taller or shorter than the area shown in FIG. 7. However, the space 230 generally includes areas for which accurate temperature monitoring and/or regulation is needed or desired. Thus, the space or region 230 generally includes an occupant space, and may include a desk, chair, bed, and/or other furniture or structure. As shown in fig. 7, environment 200 currently includes a desk and two occupants 240.

Referring to FIG. 8, an environment 200 includes the temperature sensing system 100. In this example, the temperature sensing system 100 includes a wall-mounted structure 110 having one or more temperature sensors 120. A wall-mounted structure may be any structure that is positioned adjacent to, within, or otherwise associated with a wall or other portion of an environment. Similarly, referring to FIG. 9 is an environment 200 that includes the temperature sensing system 100. In this example, the temperature sensing system 100 includes a ground-mounted or ground-embedded structure 110 having one or more temperature sensors 120. The ground-mounted or floor-embedded structure may be any structure that is positioned adjacent to, within, or otherwise associated with a wall or other portion of the environment. As another non-limiting example, reference is made to FIG. 10 to environment 200, which includes temperature sensing system 100. In this example, the temperature sensing system 100 includes a structure 110 having one or more temperature sensors 120. The ground-mounted or floor-embedded structure may be any structure that is positioned adjacent to, within, or otherwise associated with a wall or other portion of the environment.

Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment is a flow chart illustrating a method 300 for detecting occupant level air temperature of a space using one or more temperature sensors. At step 310 of the method, a temperature sensing system 100 is provided within an environment 200. The temperature sensing system may be any of the embodiments described herein or otherwise contemplated, and may include any of the components of the systems described in conjunction with fig. 1-10, such as, for example, the structure 110 with associated or integrated one or more temperature sensors 120 and controller 130, among other elements. The environment may be any environment described herein or otherwise contemplated. The temperature sensing system 100 is mounted or modified to include one or more temperature sensors 120 and a controller 130.

The temperature sensing system 100 is trained at installation and/or periodically to generate a temperature correction that includes the effect of the operating mode of the structure 110 on the temperature sensor. This training may include many different training parameters. According to one embodiment, the system is trained during a period in which the temperature is determined, meaning that the temperature is relatively stable or otherwise known, extrapolated or well characterized. For example, training may occur when the environment 200 is unoccupied and/or is less likely to be affected by a heat source (such as sunlight), such as during the night or on a weekend. Alternatively, during this calibration period, other sensors, such as adjacent sensors in adjacent luminaires, may be used to detect the temperature of the space, among other things. As yet another example, the system may extrapolate the temperature change over the calibration period given the start/end temperature. These and other schemes may be used to create a determined temperature that may be used during calibration.

According to an embodiment, "operating mode" may mean any change in the structure. As just one example, when the structure is a luminaire, the operational mode may comprise an inactive or sleep mode in which the luminaire's lighting unit is turned off, or may comprise an active mode in which the luminaire's lighting unit is turned on. As another example, the operating mode may include any general operating parameter of the structure. As other examples, the change in the operating mode may be any step, pulse, ramp, sinusoid, square wave, and/or any other adjustment of the operating parameter of the structure.

At step 320 of the method, when the temperature of the environment 200 is determined, the one or more temperature sensors 120 of the system obtain first temperature information from the area 220 or 230 of the environment, meaning that the temperature is stable or otherwise known, extrapolated, or well characterized. The one or more temperature sensors 120 may obtain temperature information periodically or continuously, but may only utilize information obtained during critical times, and/or may direct the one or more temperature sensors 120 to obtain temperature information. The system may communicate the obtained temperature information and/or may store the temperature information, such as in memory 134.

When the first temperature information is obtained, the structure 110 is in a first mode of operation. As just one example, when the structure is a light fixture, the first mode may include an inactive or sleep mode in which the lighting units of the light fixture are turned off. Thus, the harness is not generating heat and should not affect the temperature reading. Thus, the temperature readings taken by the one or more temperature sensors 120 should approximately represent the actual temperature of the area 220, rather than the temperature elevated by the structure. However, the temperature measured by the one or more temperature sensors 120 may not exactly equal the air temperature in the region 220 or 230, because other electronics (e.g., a microprocessor) associated with the sensors, which remain on even if the structure itself is turned off and does not produce light, may generate heat that slightly raises the temperature of the air immediately surrounding the one or more temperature sensors 120 and those sensors. Therefore, the "self-heating" temperature offset may need to be subtracted to create a better approximation of the air temperature in region 220.

At step 330 of the method, the structure 110 is adjusted or modified from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation. As just one example, when the structure is a luminaire, the second mode may comprise an active mode in which a lighting unit of the luminaire is turned on. Thus, the harness will generate heat and may affect the temperature reading. Thus, the temperature readings taken by one or more temperature sensors 120 will be indicative of the temperature of the area 220 or 230 affected by the structure. Alternatively, the first mode of operation is an active mode and the second mode of operation is a sleep mode.

According to an embodiment, to obtain (an estimate of) the temperature of area 230-most representative of the level of how humans will experience the space-the system must account for the vertical stratification of air temperature that may occur between areas 230 and 220 due to the tendency of warmer air to rise. Typical stratification in a room in an office building, having a ceiling height of about 3 meters, is between 0.5 and 1 degree celsius. The stratification level is typically higher if the room is in use, such as if a person or object (such as an open computer that heats the air in the room) is present. Thus, according to an embodiment, the system contemplates that, in order to obtain (an estimate of) the temperature of region 230, a stratification factor is estimated and subtracted from the temperature estimate of region 220. This hierarchical factor estimation may be done once when the system is configured, or alternatively, a more dynamic approach to obtaining the hierarchical factor estimation may be used.

According to another embodiment, one or more of the first and second modes of operation represent a modification of a parameter of the structure 110. As just one example, when the structure is a light fixture, the mode of operation may represent another change in dimming or heat dissipation.

At step 340 of the method, the one or more temperature sensors 120 of the system obtain second temperature information from the region 220/230 of the environment while determining the temperature of the environment 200, meaning that the temperature is stable, extrapolated, or otherwise known or well characterized, and while the structure 110 is operating in the second mode of operation. The one or more temperature sensors 120 may obtain temperature information periodically or continuously, but may only utilize information obtained during critical times, and/or may direct the one or more temperature sensors 120 to obtain temperature information. The system may communicate the obtained temperature information and/or may store the temperature information, such as in memory 134.

At step 350 of the method, the controller 130 determines a temperature correction using at least the first temperature information and the second temperature information obtained from the region 220/230 of the environment. This transition includes the effect of the second mode of operation of the structure 110 on the one or more temperature sensors 120. This transition can be used for future temperature measurements when the structure is operating in the first or second operating mode, to take into account the effect of the first or second operating mode on the measurements.

Reference to fig. 12 is a diagram of an embodiment of a process including steps 320 through 340 of a method described or otherwise contemplated herein. In this figure, the temperature of the environment 200 is stable during the relevant time period ("time"), as shown by the room temperature measurement ("room temperature"). Under the assumption that the ambient temperature remains stable, the correction factor may be calculated as described below. The calculation of the correction factor must also utilize an estimate of how the temperature changes if the room temperature may vary significantly over a period of time.

One or more temperature sensors 120 in the structure 110, such as a temperature sensor in a light fixture, may obtain data continuously or periodically during relevant time periods. At step 320 of the method, the system obtains a first temperature measurement during time period a when the structure 110 is in the first mode of operation. For example, during period a, the first mode of operation may be in an inactive mode.

At time T1, which may correspond to step 330 of the method, the mode of operation of structure 110 is changed to a second mode of operation. For example, during period B, the second mode of operation may be an active mode. Alternatively, the second mode may represent any change in operation of the structure 110 relative to the first mode of operation. For example, any of the first, second, or other modes of operation may include a dimming step, a pulse, a ramp, a sine, a square wave, and/or any other mode of operation.

During period B, which may correspond to step 340 of the method, when the structure 110 is in the second mode of operation, the system obtains a second temperature measurement. According to one embodiment, the system obtains a second temperature measurement until the asymptotic temperature stabilizes. Alternatively, at time T2, the structure 110 may change to a different mode of operation, which may be the first mode of operation or any other mode of operation different from the second mode of operation. The system may continue to collect temperature information using one or more temperature sensors 120, or may collect such temperature information during any other time period.

The system uses the temperature readings obtained during periods a and B (and/or any other period) to determine a temperature correction that includes the effect of the second mode of operation of the structure 110 on the one or more temperature sensors 120.

The temperature correction may be determined in a variety of different ways in addition to those described herein or otherwise contemplated. According to one embodiment, determining the temperature correction comprises approximating the measured system response by creating a look-up table, curve fitting and/or parameter estimation of a thermal model (preferably first order), followed by correcting for differences between the initial and final temperatures. For example, referring to fig. 13 in one embodiment is a graph of temperature measurements inside a sensor box (thin lines) in a luminaire with a first order model fit (thick lines) after 100% -67% -33% dimming steps. For example, the first order model may be generated using the following formula:

(equation 1).

For example, the system may convolve the system response determined from the temperature measurement with the transmitted dimming evolution of the structure 110. This may be performed in a sensor cartridge, a temperature sensor, a controller and/or a structure depending on the design of the system. Alternatively, the system may determine the correction in the cloud or at another remote location (such as a central location of the building).

With the generated first-order thermal model, subsequent temperatures measured by the temperature sensor(s) are corrected using convolution and/or using a low-pass filter or process to obtain the room air temperature. This may be performed in a sensor cartridge, a temperature sensor, a controller and/or a structure depending on the design of the system. Alternatively, the system may perform the correction in the cloud or at another remote location (such as a central location of the building).

According to one embodiment, to obtain the compensation parameter, the machine learning algorithm may measure the temperature response of ≧ 1 internal local temperature sensor for ≧ 1 dimming step/pulse/ramp/sine/square wave. The algorithm may take into account that the response is also affected by changes in the air temperature in the room. These air temperature changes may be measured by another sensor located in a structure that remains closed (i.e., remains in the same operating mode throughout the time period) located in the same room. This reference reading can be subtracted to obtain a clear curve. An alternative to not requiring a reference sensor is to perform a statistical averaging over multiple test periods. Machine learning may also be used to determine self-heating of a sensor or structure. This can be done by triggering a structural power step/pulse/square wave, measuring the response of ≧ 1 internal local temperature sensor, convolving with the power evolution, or extrapolating the temperature measurement to a zero power consumption level.

Returning to fig. 11 and method 300, at step 360 of the method, the system obtains new temperature information from the temperature sensor after determining the temperature correction. This may be done at any point or period of time after the temperature correction is created. These temperature readings will be corrected using the generated temperature correction.

Thus, at step 370 of the method, the system adjusts the temperature information using the temperature correction. The adjustment may be performed immediately or using stored data. The adjustment may be performed by a temperature sensor, a sensor module or cartridge, a structure, and/or by a central unit of a system, including but not limited to an environmental control system.

At optional step 372 of the method, the system applies one or more other corrections. As just one example, the system may apply a stratification factor to the temperature, although other corrections are possible.

At step 380 of the method, the system provides the adjusted temperature measurement to another controller. For example, the system may provide the adjusted temperature measurement to a central unit of another structure and/or system, including but not limited to an environmental control system. As just one example, the adjusted temperature measurement may be generated by the luminaire and provided to a neighboring luminaire and/or to an environmental control system, among other possibilities.

Referring to fig. 14, in one embodiment is a graph of temperature measurements from a temperature sensor 120 positioned within a sensor box mounted on a harness positioned in a conference room. The harness undergoes several modifications in the operating mode during the time period shown in the graph.

The basic truth measurement curve in fig. 14 represents the air temperature at 1.2 meters above the floor as measured by averaging four air temperature sensors placed directly below the light fixture, each air temperature sensor being below one corner of the light fixture. This measurement represents the temperature most relevant to the people in the room and is based approximately on the method technique of ANSI/ASHRAE standard 55-2013 section 7.3.

The raw sensor data curve in fig. 14 represents raw air temperature data from the sensor in the harness. As shown, this curve is severely affected by the illumination being turned on and off, since the illumination is switched several times during the test interval shown. This curve remains above the base true value at all times even when the lights are off, because the sensor electronics self-heat, thereby making the temperature sensor warmer than the room air even when the lights are off.

The sensor compensation curve in fig. 14 represents a corrected temperature calculated using a correction model disclosed or otherwise contemplated herein. As shown by the graph, the correction model significantly modifies and improves the temperature sensing capability of the sensor.

Additionally, since the system must have an accurate estimate of the air temperature 1.2 meters above ground level in order to accurately measure and report the relative humidity experienced by people in the room, the relative humidity reading from the relative humidity sensor in the structure, the humidity sensor surrounded by air that is hotter than the air at 1.2 meters, will not equal the relative humidity of the (colder) air at 1.2 meters above ground level. Accordingly, the methods and systems described herein may improve the accuracy of humidity sensors positioned at structures including sensor cartridges.

According to another embodiment, the sensor or sensor cartridge itself also generates heat, which may affect the temperature reading in addition to the effects from the structure. For example, while the structure may act as a heat sink that extracts heat generated by the sensor or sensor cartridge, individual sensors or sensor cartridges may function differently, thus requiring specific measurements and accounting for the effects of the sensor or sensor cartridge. Accordingly, the system may include a method or system for determining one or more heat generation compensation parameters using an automatic machine learning step. Among those parameters are: (i) the self-heating level of the sensor or sensor cartridge; (ii) when the structure is opened, the sensor or sensor box heats up the level (which represents the difference between the 0% and 100% dimming levels); (iii) the slope and shape of the heat-generating transition curve when the structure is opened; and (iv) the slope and shape of the cooling transition curve when the structure is closed. These parameters, along with knowledge of the dimming level or other changes to the structure, are used to construct a compensation curve that is subtracted from the sensor readings to obtain a corrected air temperature.

To obtain test data, a machine learning system is implemented that obtains parameters while triggering a single dimming cycle at night to minimize interference due to changing thermal stratification and other disruptive room temperature changes. The test included a sensor module on the rod end, positioned as a reference sensor approximately four meters from the sensor module being calibrated. To determine self-heating of the calibrated sensor module, the field test measures the power to the electronics in the calibrated sensor module completely shut off for several hours, allowing it to equalize with the room temperature, and then measures the step response of the temperature when the sensor module is turned on again.

Referring to fig. 15, in one embodiment is a graph that generates a compensation curve, where the X-axis is the time index in seconds for dimming level and compensation curve values, and the Y-axis is the dimming level state and compensation values in degrees celsius. The graph shows the "self-heating level" of the sensor or sensor box, the "on-light heating level" when the structure is turned on (which represents the difference between the 0% and 100% dimming levels), the slope and shape of the heating transition curve when the structure is turned on ("heating slope, shape"), and the slope and shape of the cooling transition curve when the structure is turned off ("cooling slope, shape"). The graph shows a compensation curve that can be used to subtract from the Tsens reading to obtain the air temperature.

According to one embodiment, the heating and cooling transition curves represent a process that may be modeled and approximated using an exponential function. For example, if the pendant is turned on at t = t0, the heating curve may be approximated using the following formula:

level (1-exp (speed (t0-t)))(formula 2)

Where level is the level of heating of the on-hook and speed is the heating speed parameter.

Referring to FIG. 16, in one embodiment is a graph depicting a compensation curve in operation. The compensation curve at the bottom of the graph is constructed using the dimming level (positioned directly above the compensation curve) and the compensation parameters. The compensated temperature reading is calculated by subtracting the compensation curve from the Tsens reading (at the top of the graph). The base true air temperature at 1.2 meters below is shown for reference and very close to mirroring the compensated temperature reading.

The system must take into account that the sampling curve is also affected by changes in the room air temperature. According to an embodiment, one possible solution is to use another sensor located in the same room in the lighting fixture that is kept closed to measure these air temperature changes. This reference reading was subtracted to obtain a clear curve. An alternative to not requiring a reference sensor is to perform a statistical averaging over multiple test periods. Such a scheme would use data captured over a long period of time to filter out the "noise" effects caused by human occupancy. Alternative learning schemes may also be possible, which use naturally occurring opening and closing events when a building is occupied. Hybrid learning schemes that combine both trigger period and occupancy period learning may also be utilized. Machine learning may also be used to determine the spontaneous heat level (yellow) of the sensor. This may be accomplished by varying the sensor power consumption in a known manner, measuring the effect on the Tsens reading, and then extrapolating this temperature to a zero power consumption level.

Referring to fig. 15 and 16, in various embodiments are example applications of temperature correction models in accordance with the methods and systems described or otherwise contemplated herein. The raw internal local temperature measurements may be corrected by the sensor beam or via cloud analysis based on the luminaire's dimming evolution and temperature response. For example, in fig. 17, a connected light up ("light up") uses temperature correction to correct raw temperature readings before passing temperature data to the connected lighting infrastructure. In fig. 18, the connected luminaire passes the raw temperature readings to the connected lighting infrastructure, which corrects the temperature data using temperature correction. Many other configurations are possible. One advantage of cloud-based solutions and similar solutions is that over time, the model can be refined with more collected data. Additionally, information from neighbors or other similar paraphernalia may be used to improve the thermal correction model.

According to another embodiment depicted in FIG. 19, the system may download a generic thermal correction model as a starting point for adapting to position dependent operating conditions. Thus, the thermal correction model need not be constructed completely from scratch, but rather has a starting point.

For example, at step 410 of the method, the system may identify or be informed of the identity of the brand or type of light or other structure associated with the system. At step 420, the system queries a local or remote database, or otherwise receives a generic thermal correction model 430 that is specific to the brand or type of light fixtures or other structures associated with the system. Despite a good starting point for temperature correction, the generic thermal correction model will not behave as accurately as the methods and systems described or otherwise contemplated herein. At step 440 of the method, the system uses the temperature measurements as described herein and modifies the generic thermal correction model accordingly to create a specific temperature correction model 450. This particular temperature correction model 450 can be used to correct future temperature readings obtained by a light or other structure associated with the system.

According to another embodiment of the system, the temperature correction is not a first order thermal model, but instead is a spatially extrapolated model configured to determine the room air temperature from the temperature sensor (at elevated temperature) based on a compact or empirical thermal model of the temperature sensor, regardless of the thermal boundary layer and/or internal heat diffusion. For example, the temperature correction model includes: (i) the thermal resistance of the thermal boundary layer underneath the structure or sensor module, which can be derived empirically and/or from external information sources, and which should be substantially constant for a limited temperature range; (ii) from temperature sensorToThermal resistance and heat capacity, which should be substantially constant over a limited temperature range; and/or (iii) internal thermal resistance and thermal capacity between the internal temperature sensor and the structure or sensor cartridge.

According to the methods and systems described herein or otherwise contemplated, the heating and temperature ranges in structures such as adnexts and sensor boxes are typically so small as to be feasible by approximation of a thermal resistance network or compact model, which is generally simply not feasible. Thus, deconvolution of the sensor temperature signal can resolve the thermal capacity.

According to an embodiment for generating the surrogate spatially extrapolated temperature correction model, the system comprises a plurality of internal local temperature sensors at several locations, preferably at several depths, in the structure. For example, the system may include a plurality of internal local temperature sensors on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), in a sensor bundle, and/or in a structure.

FIG. 20 includes multiple local temperature sensor locations on the PCB (by HT sensor and T sensor)₁、T₂And T₃ NTC), with an in-operation temperature map visually showing temperature. Power dissipation, such as in the LED driver and controller(s) in the system, is partially conducted in the PCB, generating temperature gradients and differences, such as the example shown in fig. 21. The substantial temperature difference facilitates the space temperature extrapolation. According to an embodiment, the PCB shape and layout may be designed to maximize the temperature difference between the sensors by minimizing the thermal resistance between the HT sensors and the air and increasing the thermal resistance between the HT sensors and the power dissipation components (e.g., controller and drivers).

The system then predetermines a compact thermal model of resistance (-capacitance-inductance), such as:

(formula 3)

For example by fitting a pre-measured step response by parameter estimation. The resistance and capacitance are generally concentrated in a non-trivial manner.

The internal local temperature sensor temperature can be extrapolated to the room air temperature using a pre-determined resistive (-capacitive-inductive) compact thermal model. According to one embodiment, FIG. 22 compares the extrapolation to an air temperature measurement, where the internal local temperature sensor temperature is generated by a sensor inside a sensor box associated with the harness.

The methods and systems described or otherwise contemplated herein may be configured, adapted, and used for many different applications. According to one embodiment, the system includes a connected office harness having an integrated temperature sensor. The sensor may be a separate sensor module, a temperature sensor within a relative humidity sensor module, and/or any other sensor or microprocessor having an internal temperature sensor. The lighting controller calculates a temperature correction based on the dimming level of the LED panel and the state of the electronic circuit. The corrected temperature readings are transmitted to the lighting infrastructure, and the lighting infrastructure may share thermal information with other building automation systems.

According to another embodiment, the system includes a light bulb with an integrated temperature sensor. This sensor may be a separate sensor module, a temperature sensor within a relative humidity sensor module, and/or any other sensor or microprocessor having an internal temperature sensor. The lighting controller calculates a temperature correction based on the dimming level of the LED bulb or tube.

According to another embodiment, the system includes a connected sensor module having an integrated temperature sensor. This sensor may be a separate sensor module, a temperature sensor within a relative humidity sensor module, and/or any other sensor or microprocessor having an internal temperature sensor. The sensor module calculates a temperature correction based on the state of the electronic circuit. The corrected temperature readings are transmitted to the lighting infrastructure, and the lighting infrastructure may share thermal information with other building automation systems.

According to an embodiment, the temperature correction model is created during periods when the ambient temperature is not changing during a change in the dimming level. For example, the system may include a timer so that the calibration process is performed during the night. These periods may also be detected by the presence detection sensor, so that only periods without a person are used. Similarly, a light level sensor may be used to detect periods of no sunlight to avoid the effects of external heating. Also, measurements from other radiant temperature sensors and/or solar radiation measurements may be used.

According to one embodiment, the temperature correction model is created by using the temperature of neighboring luminaires with a constant dimming level during dimming level changes. According to one embodiment, a temperature correction model is created by using the temperature of other equipment, such as HVAC, during dimming level changes. In addition, information provided by other remote temperature sensors/thermostats in the vicinity may be used. According to another embodiment, the temperature reading of the humidity sensor is corrected such that the relative humidity can be more accurately calculated, similar to the methods and systems of modifying temperature readings described herein. According to one embodiment, an initial temperature correction model optimized during operation may be used.

According to another embodiment, measurements from other luminaires and/or from radiant temperature sensors and/or solar radiation measurements may be combined and processed to account for lateral temperature variations and/or system measurement artifacts.

According to one embodiment, a plurality of temperature sensors having different isolation properties with respect to ambient air and the power dissipation assembly of the harness and/or sensor box are used. The internal temperature difference is used to extrapolate the ambient air temperature and/or improve the accuracy of other embodiments. These and many other embodiments and applications are possible.

While several inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings of the present invention is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or to define the ordinary meaning of the term.

The indefinite articles "a" and "an", as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean "at least one" unless explicitly indicated to the contrary.

The phrase "and/or" as used herein in the specification and in the claims should be understood to mean "one or two" of the elements so combined, i.e., the elements present in some cases combined and in other cases separated. Multiple elements listed with "and/or" should be interpreted in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so combined. In addition to elements specifically identified by the "and/or" clause, other elements may optionally be present, whether related or unrelated to those specifically identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with open language such as "including," references to "a and/or B" may refer in one embodiment to only a (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment to B only (optionally including elements other than a); refers to both a and B (optionally including other elements) in yet another embodiment; and so on.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and/or" as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" and/or "should be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., including at least one of the plurality of elements or list of elements, but also including more than one of the plurality of elements or list of elements, and optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms explicitly indicated to the contrary, such as "only one of … …" or "exactly one of … …," or "consisting of … …" when used in the claims, will refer to including multiple elements or exactly one element of a list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein when preceded by an exclusive term such as "any," "one of … …," "only one of … …," or "exactly one of … …," should only be construed as indicating an exclusive substitute (i.e., "one or the other, but not both"). "consisting essentially of … …" when used in a claim shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the patent law field.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase "at least one of" in reference to a list of one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each element specifically listed within the list of elements, and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements referred to by the phrase "at least one" may optionally be present, whether related or unrelated to those specifically identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of a and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of a or B," or, equivalently "at least one of a and/or B") may refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, a, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment refers to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no a present (and optionally including elements other than a); in yet another embodiment to at least one, optionally including more than one, a and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); and so on.

It will also be understood that, in any method claimed herein that includes more than one step or action, the order of the steps or actions of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or actions of the method are recited, unless specifically indicated to the contrary.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as "comprising," "including," "carrying," "having," "containing," "involving," "holding," "containing," and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transition phrases "consisting of … …" and "consisting essentially of … …" should be closed or semi-closed transition phrases, respectively, as set forth in the U.S. patent office patent examination program manual.