EVALUATING SENSORS IN CONNECTED

LIGHTING PRODUCTS
 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Sensors in connected lighting products have become essential to the efficient management and control of lighting systems in
public infrastructure as well as commercial, industrial and, soon, consumer applications. Sensors serve a critical function in the
optimization of performance and energy efficiency of lighting products. Sensors also facilitate timely maintenance by signaling
lighting component performance issues, failures and outages. And sensors contribute to the overall safety and security of buildings
through their integration with building automation and security systems.

For these and other reasons, the implementation of advanced sensor technology in and on connected lighting products and as
part of systems represents a significant and growing market for manufacturers. At the same time, however, standardized methods
for evaluating the performance of sensors used in connected lighting products have been slow to emerge. In this vacuum, sensor
manufacturers and integrators evaluate and test sensors to their own specific requirements, potentially leading to significant
variations in the characteristics, quality and reliability of lighting sensors. And, over time, as older sensors reach the end of their
useful life and must be replaced, interchangeability with newer sensor technologies is uncertain.

This UL white paper discusses the use of sensors in connected lighting products and presents a case for the standardization of
sensor performance. Beginning with a review of sensor technology and an overview of their growing importance, the paper then
examines a sampling of current sensor standards, and identifies key considerations for future technical standards for sensors used
in connected lighting products. The white paper concludes with information about UL’s contributions to the current and future
development of Standards and protocols for lighting sensors and other connected technologies.

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WHAT ARE SENSORS? The increasing utility of the smart
phone, growth and expansion of the IT IS ESTIMATED THAT
Sensors used in lighting products IoT and the Industrial IOT (IIoT) will SENSOR-DEPENDENT IOT/
are generally low-powered, often fuel dramatic increases in the market IIOT-CONNECTED DEVICES
microelectronic elements that are for sensors. Global sales of sensor WILL GROW GLOBALLY FROM
designed to detect one or more elements and sensor devices, estimated 8.4 BILLION IN 2017 TO MORE
specific physical, electrical or chemical at approximately $130 billion (U.S.) in THAN 20 BILLION BY 2020.
property. When packaged with a 2016, and are projected to exceed $240
communication technology (e.g. billion in 2021, a compound annual
wireless radio), the resulting sensor growth rate (CAGR) of more than
device can transmit data on changes 13 percent.1 Separately, Gartner
in that property over time. A sensor predicts that sensor-dependent IoT/
can be a simple, single-function device IIoT-connected devices will grow
designed for a specific application, globally from 8.4 billion in 2017 to
such as a photoelectric eye used with a more than 20 billion by 2020.2 These
switch to turn on or turn off a piece of projected trends strongly correlate
lighting equipment. A sensor can also with the IoT’s/IIoT’s dependence on
consist of multiple sensing elements sensor technology.
and be integrated into more advanced
equipment, such as machinery used in THE ROLE OF SENSORS
industrial, commercial and consumer
IN CONNECTED
LIGHTING PRODUCTS
applications to monitor and control
multiple functions.

Today’s generation of microelectronic According to the U.S. Energy

sensors are commonly based on mi- Information Administration (EIA),
croelectromechanical systems (MEMS) energy usage related to lighting
technology, resulting in highly advanced products has dropped dramatically
devices that are significantly more in recent years, from about 18
capable, sensitive and accurate than percent of U.S. electrical consumption
conventional sensors. This development in 20133 to approximately 10
makes MEMS-based sensors essential percent in 2016.4 While economic
components in the development growth in the U.S. and elsewhere
and widespread deployment of in the world continues to drive an
interconnected devices and technologies overall increase in the demand for
that make up the Internet of Things energy, today’s advanced lighting
(IoT). By translating the characteristics products consume significantly less
of the physical world into information energy than comparable products
that can be used to monitor, control from just a few years ago, making
and optimize the performance of other important contributions to overall
connected devices and systems, sensors energy savings. The growing market
are the driving force behind such 21st acceptance of solid state lighting
century advancements as smart homes (SSL) products and other advanced
and smart cities, autonomous vehicles lighting technologies in both
and the introduction of intelligent commercial and residential
systems in automated factories and applications has been an important
production facilities (the so-called factor behind these savings.
Industry 4.0).

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In addition to reducing energy consumption, the widespread adoption of SSL technologies has also paved the way for the
integration of sensors into lighting products. For millions of consumers, for example, this integration now makes it increasingly
possible to program sophisticated residential lighting systems, permitting manipulation of illumination through an almost
unlimited range of output levels, intensities and colors, all from a smart phone or comparable electronic device. More generally,
sensors can be used to detect ambient lighting levels to power down lighting during daytime hours, or to detect motion, sound or
even body heat to adjust lighting systems based on occupancy.

But sensor-enabled connected lighting products, including lighting products serving as a platform for sensors, can potentially
support a host of broader capabilities in all types of settings and applications. Here are just a few examples:

• ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Data from sensor-enabled lighting • BUILDING AUTOMATION: The operation of connected
products can be downloaded and analyzed for specific lighting systems can be integrated with that of other
occupancy and usage patterns, enabling infrastructure, infrastructure operations, such as plant and equipment
building and plant operators to more easily monitor and activation, elevator operation, access control, etc.,
control energy usage associated with lighting products as part of a comprehensive effort to more effectively
and other systems. And sensors in lighting products manage building and infrastructure operations.
can be programmed to communicate with heating,
ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems to • CUSTOMIZED APPLICATIONS: The current technology
coordinate additional potential energy savings. behind sensor-enabled lighting products provides
a platform for the development of a wide range of
• FACILITIES MAINTENANCE: Lighting sensors can signal customized lighting applications. And future advances
when repair or maintenance of a lighting system or in sensor technology and photonics is likely to offer
component is required or imminent, for example, when new ways to monitor the use environment and share
a burned-out light source requires replacement. Sensors data, supporting additional applications for
can also measure lighting system performance (as well connected lighting systems.
as the performance of other facility systems) against
theoretical specifications, enabling asset managers to
proactively plan routine servicing and maintenance.

• SECURITY: Sensor-enabled lighting products can be

programmed to contact security services when the
lighting is unexpectedly activated or when other
localized activity (such as a window breaking) signals a
potential intrusion. Intelligent lighting products can also
be equipped with cameras or infrared motion detectors
that can be integrated into building monitoring systems
to provide more comprehensive security.

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CURRENT SENSOR • NEMA WD-7, OCCUPANCY MOTION • ANSI/UL 639, STANDARD FOR

STANDARDS
SENSORS: Developed by NEMA, INTRUSION-DETECTION UNITS:
WD-7 provides a reference definition Another UL Standard, UL 639
and measurement characteristics for addresses the performance of
The development of standards applicable
the use and application of occupancy intrusion-detection units intended
to sensors used in connected lighting motion sensors. to be used in burglary-protection
products has not kept pace with signaling systems.
their growing importance and future • NEMA WD-9, DIMMERS,
potential. Instead, many currently PHOTOELECTRIC CONTROLS, • ANSI/UL 1434, STANDARD FOR
PRESENCE SENSORS, AND THERMISTOR-TYPE DEVICES: This
available, sensor-related standards
MULTI-OUTLET BARS ENERGY UL Standard covers thermistor-type
focus generally on sensor technology
CONSUMPTION TESTING AND devices that may be used as
or on sensors intended for use in very LABELING: Another NEMA standard, temperature sensors for various
specific applications. Some industry and WD-9 provides a standardized products.
professional organizations, such as NEMA testing method to measure and label
(the National Electrical Manufacturers the standby energy consumption • ANSI/UL 1484, STANDARD FOR
of dimmers, photoelectric controls, RESIDENTIAL GAS DETECTORS: This
Association), and the IEEE (the Institute
presence/motion sensors and UL Standard covers electrically-
of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), as
multi-outlet bars. operated gas detectors intended
well as the International Electrotechnical for installation in residential
Commission (IEC) have contributed to the • NFPA 72, NATIONAL FIRE ALARM occupancies and recreational
standardization of sensor technology by AND SIGNALING CODE SCOPE: vehicles.
developing industry-accepted standards Developed by the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA), • ANSI/UL 2075, STANDARD FOR
that have been adopted by sensor
NFPA 72 covers the installation, GAS AND VAPOR DETECTORS AND
manufacturers and integrators.
performance, inspection and SENSORS: This UL Standard covers
testing of fire alarm systems, fire toxic and combustible gas and vapor
HERE IS A SAMPLING OF warning equipment, emergency detectors and sensors intended for
CURRENT SENSOR-RELATED communication systems and their portable, indoor or outdoor use.
STANDARDS: components.
Absent from these lists are standards
• IEC 61757 SERIES, FIBER OPTIC UL HAS ALSO DEVELOPED A specifically applicable to the newer
SENSORS: This international NUMBER OF STANDARDS FOR and more complex sensors used in
standard series covers sensors that DEVICES LEVERAGING SENSOR connected lighting products. Without the
measure a physical or electrical
quantity, property or condition as
TECHNOLOGY, AS FOLLOWS: availability of such standards, individual
it applies specifically to fiber optic • ANSI/UL 217, STANDARD FOR sensor manufacturers are left to develop
sensing applications. SMOKE ALARMS: This UL Standard new sensors based on proprietary
covers electrically operated single technical specifications and protocols.
• IEC 62047-1, SEMICONDUCTOR and multiple station smoke alarms This approach may help to support
DEVICES - MICRO-ELECTROMECHAN- and remote accessories intended
technical innovation and strengthen
ICAL DEVICES - PART 1: Terms and for open area protection in indoor
first-to-market advantages, but it
definitions: This IEC standard defines locations, as well as portable smoke
terms for micro-electromechanical alarms. does little to promote sensor-enabled
systems (MEMS) and devices, connected lighting technology in general
including the process of producing • ANSI/UL 268, SMOKE DETECTORS since it introduces new challenges
such devices. FOR FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS: UL concerning compatibility, interoperability
268 establishes requirements for
and interchangeability.
• (IEEE) 2700—IEEE STANDARD FOR smoke detectors and accessories,
SENSOR PERFORMANCE PARAMETER such as releasing device controls
DEFINITION: Presents a common like electromagnetic door holders
framework for sensor performance and fire and smoke dampers, in
specification terminology, units, accordance with NFPA 72.
conditions and limits.

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SPECIFIC AREAS FOR FUTURE SENSOR PERFORMANCE
STANDARDIZATION
Sensor standards development will become increasingly integration, performance and reliability, and vulnerability to
necessary as the marketplace depends more and more on cyberattacks. Increased marketplace reliance on sensors to
the performance of sensors. It must focus on more than just achieve results can be expected. Therefore, future standards
the safety performance of detector-type sensor technology. development activities will need to take a more holistic
Indeed, as the market for connected lighting products expands, approach in addressing technical requirements for sensors for
buyers and specifiers will be concerned about a broader range connected lighting products, evaluating sensors in the context
of sensor-specific issues, including battery life, functional of system-wide integration.

SOME SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF

NEW STANDARDS FOR SENSORS USED IN CONNECTED LIGHTING PRODUCTS INCLUDE:

• ENERGY ECONOMY: Many sensors rely on batteries or • SPECTRUM EFFICIENCY: Commercial and industrial
wireless charging technologies to provide a backup settings equipped with smart technologies may have
energy source in cases where a primary source of energy dozens of different connected systems, devices and
is unavailable, (e.g. a power outage), or to provide applications operating simultaneously, potentially
developers with maximum flexibility regarding their increasing the risk of interference in wireless spectrum
installation and use. Sensor designs that have low such as what might be used for street lighting. Therefore,
power demands can support their continued operation sensor devices designed for use in connected lighting
for extended periods, reducing maintenance and products will need to make the most efficient use of
unanticipated downtime. available spectrum to minimize the risk of interference
with other connected devices.
• INTEROPERABILITY: The seamless interoperability of
individual and bundled sensors is essential for their • SECURITY AND PRIVACY: Like all connected technologies,
effective deployment in connected lighting products. sensors are potentially vulnerable to hacking and
Interoperability is facilitated by the adoption of other forms of cyberattack, originating from both
non-proprietary industry communications standards and external sources as well as other connected systems
protocols, along with product designs that foster easy and components. As such, sensors in connected lighting
performance and physical integration with connected products must be rigorously evaluated and tested for
lighting systems and other smart infrastructure systems. cybersecurity vulnerability.6

• INTERCHANGEABILITY: Because many advanced lighting • PARAMETRIC MEASUREMENT ACCURACY AND

products and luminaires can have a useful life of fifteen PERFORMANCE: Last but not least, sensors should
years or more, the adoption of standardized sensor be evaluated against industry and other stakeholder
interfaces will support the ability to continually upgrade standardized accuracy and performance metrics to
lighting system performance to keep pace with new enable pre-selection for an intended application, simplify
and more advanced sensor technologies. Over time, installation calibration and commissioning, and increase
sensor interchangeability can also help foster the more expected and actual consistency in operational accuracy
widespread use of connected lighting systems, and reliability.
increasing their value.5

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 UL’S ROLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF
STANDARDS FOR CONNECTED PRODUCTS
From the earliest beginnings of the Internet of Things (IoT), UL has been actively
engaged in supporting the development and widespread deployment of smart
technologies that make up the IoT ecosystem, including sensors. UL technical
experts serve in key standards development efforts, including those addressing
lighting system and component safety, power, control, compatibility and interop-
erability. UL staff participate in numerous domestic and international technical
fora, including most notably committees and working groups involved in the
development of standards for IoT technologies.

In addition to standards development activities, UL is an authorized and

experienced IoT testing laboratory for the NFC Forum, the Power Matters Alliance
and the Thread Group. UL provides Bluetooth compatibility and performance testing
services for the leading automotive companies, and wireless device producers and
carriers. And near its Fremont, CA laboratories that provide numerous IoT-related
services, UL has a real-world lab in a suburban home to observe how IoT devices
communicate with one another, and to evaluate and resolve any interoperability
issues which may arise.

Addressing a potential impediment to the ubiquitous deployment of IoT, UL has

developed a first-of-its-kind Cybersecurity Assurance Program (CAP) that takes
a holistic approach in mitigating cybersecurity risks in connected products and
components. In accordance with newly-developed UL Standards, the CAP evaluates
both product-specific and systemic preparedness for cyber threats. This approach
can help to minimize the vulnerability of sensors and other connected technologies
to cyberattacks, and provide device manufacturers with greater assurances
regarding the performance and security of their products.

Overall, this broad involvement in the development of Standards and testing

of sensors and IoT components complements and informs UL’s comprehensive
portfolio of Standards and testing services. Taking what it knows about evaluation
and testing for safety, performance, usability and sustainability, UL is seeking to
be a catalyst for raising the standards bar for lighting sensor technologies so that
the sensors our world will soon be relying upon provide the optimized, reliable and
resilient performance we all will come to expect.

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 SUMMARY + CONCLUSION

Sensor-enabled connected lighting products and those that serve as a platform for other building and infrastructure systems
will be significant contributors to the advancement of smart cities, industry and homes. However, to maximize their potential,
there is a critical need for the development of standards for these applications that address performance, reliability, compatibility,
interoperability and interchangeability, among other considerations. UL is actively working with the lighting and other industries,
professional associations and other organizations involved in driving the adoption of IoT technologies. One of UL’s objectives is to
facilitate the development of comprehensive, stakeholder-supported, lighting-specific sensor Standards that will bring consistency
and predictability to sensor performance, and that will contribute to the continued growth in the deployment of connected
lighting products and systems.

For more information about the evaluation of sensors in connected lighting products, and UL’s ongoing contributions to the
development of sensor Standards and protocols, visit WWW.UL.COM/LIGHTING, or contact [email protected].

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 END NOTES

1.
“Global Sensor Market Chasing Double-Digit Growth Rates,” press release from BCC Research, March 22, 2017.
Web. 1 June 2017. https://globenewswire.com/news-release/2017/03/22/942974/0/en/Global-Sensor-Market-
Chasing-Double-Digit-Growth-Rates.html.

2.
“Gartner Says 8.4 Billion Connected ‘Things’ Will Be in Use In 2017, Up 31 Percent From 2016,” press release from
Gartner, February 7, 2017. Web. 1 June 2017. http://www.gartner.com/newsroom/id/3598917.

3.
“Energy Savings Forecast of Solid-State Lighting in General Illumination Applications,” a report prepared for the U.S.
Department of Energy, August 2014. Web. 1 June 2017. https://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2015/05/f22/energysav-
ingsforecast14.pdf.

4.
“Frequently Asked Questions: How much electricity is used for lighting in the United States?” from the website of the
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), last updated May 23, 2017. Web. 1 June 2017. https://www.eia.gov/tools/
faqs/faq.php?id=99&t=3.

5.
The IoT-Ready™ Alliance has recently announced the development of an industry standard addressing interface
requirements for sensors used in LED lighting figures. See “New IoT-Ready Alliance to Establish Industry Standard for
IoT Sensor Installation in LED Lighting Fixtures,” press release by the IoT-Ready Alliance, May 9, 2017. Web. 20 July 2017.
http://iot-ready.org/News-Events/Press-Releases/ID/4/New-IoT-Ready-Alliance-to-Establish-Industry-Standard-for-IoT-
Sensor-Installation-in-LED-Lighting-Fixtures#.WYM8-OQm5aR.

6.
In connection with the U.S. Department of Energy, UL is currently developing test methods for cybersecurity
vulnerability of connected lighting systems. See “Connected Lighting Cybersecurity Testing,” U.S. Department of Energy,
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Web. 20 July 2017. https://energy.gov/eere/ssl/connected-lighting-
cybersecurity-testing.

©2017 UL LLC. All rights reserved. This white paper may not be copied or distributed without permission.
It is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to convey legal or other professional advice.

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