TECHNOLOGY BASICS: What are Luminaires with Integrated Controls

Luminaire-integrated Controls (LIC) are lighting control systems in which the sensing, processing, and control hardware are embedded directly into each luminaire. An LIC-enabled fixture includes an integral sensor module, providing occupancy sensing and daylight harvesting, along with local processing capabilities that allow each luminaire to autonomously adjust its light output based on environmental conditions.

Because the sensors and control logic are factory-installed inside the luminaire, LICs require no external sensors, low-voltage wiring, or centralized controllers to deliver their core functions. Each luminaire functions as an intelligent, self-contained node that can operate independently. Many LIC products can also link with neighboring fixtures to create small-scale control networks that enable coordinated behaviors such as grouping or zoning, even though these systems typically do not require internet access or enterprise-level networking.

Key Components of LIC Technology

 
Integrated Sensor Module
LIC luminaires include a built-in sensing unit that combines occupancy detection, commonly PIR-based, and a photosensor for daylight measurement. The photosensor enables continuous monitoring of ambient light levels to support daylight harvesting.

Onboard Processing and Control Logic
Each luminaire contains local computing capability that interprets sensor inputs, applies programmed settings (such as timeouts or high-end trim), and autonomously adjusts light output. This localized intelligence ensures consistent operation regardless of connectivity to other fixtures.

Driver Integration
The LIC control hardware interfaces directly with the luminaire’s LED driver to modulate output levels smoothly and efficiently. Functions such as dimming for daylight harvesting or reducing output during vacancy rely on this interface.

Local Communication Capability
LIC luminaires include built-in communication functionality that allows fixtures to connect with one another to form a localized control network. Through this communication link, luminaires share occupancy status, daylight readings, and programmed behavioral parameters, enabling them to operate in coordinated groups or zones. This local networking does not rely on internet access or a central controller; instead, each luminaire participates directly in the control network to maintain consistent lighting behavior across a space.

Commissioning Interface
LIC products typically include a mobile app or local interface for adjusting basic settings such as occupancy timeouts, daylight setpoints, or grouping assignments. Commissioning processes are generally simpler than for enterprise-level systems and often provide unrestricted access to tools over the product’s life.

Core Control Strategies Enabled by LICs
LIC systems support a focused set of lighting control strategies aimed at energy savings and basic comfort:

• Occupancy Sensing: Integrated motion sensors reduce light output or turn lights off when spaces are unoccupied. Sensor performance is influenced by detection range and coverage patterns.
• Daylight Harvesting: The embedded photosensor monitors available daylight and automatically reduces electric lighting to maintain a target illuminance level. LIC photosensors are tested for characteristics such as amplitude response, directional sensitivity, and detection range.
• High-End Trim / Institutional Tuning: Maximum light output can be limited during commissioning to reduce energy use and tailor lighting to user needs or design requirements.
• Zoning / Grouping: Multiple LIC luminaires can be grouped to act together, such as responding to occupancy detected at any fixture in the zone. Grouping is typically configured during commissioning and relies on short-range communication between luminaires.