The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science has awarded four Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants targeting advances in solid-state lighting (SSL) and building-integrated heat and moisture exchange technology:

• VoltServer, Inc. (Phase II)—Low-Cost, High Efficiency Integration of SSL and Building Controls using a PET Power Distribution System
• MoJo Labs Inc.(Phase II)—Daylighting Digital Dimmer
• OLEDWorks LLC (Phase I)—Pedestrian-Friendly OLED Luminaire

View the Building Technologies Office's full small business portfolio, or read the project descriptions below.

SBIR Recipient: VoltServer, Inc.
Title: Low-Cost, High Efficiency Integration of SSL and Building Controls using a PET Power Distribution System
Summary: This Phase II project will demonstrate a novel approach to reducing cost of SSL ownership by 35% or more by simultaneously reducing installation cost, energy use, and lamp replacement. Phase I demonstrated replacement of conventional low-efficiency driver circuitry with a high-efficiency, high-reliability, intrinsically safe, centralized Packet Energy Transfer (PET) power supply design that improved conversion efficiency to 90% while also providing individual luminaire control and network communications. Phase II will further increase conversion efficiency to 93% and will be integrated into two commercial luminaire designs that can be installed without conduit and with limited licensed electrician involvement.  

SBIR Recipient: MoJo Labs Inc.
Title: Daylighting Digital Dimmer
Summary: This Phase II project will refine and expand on the novel SSL control architecture that was successfully demonstrated during Phase I to produce a commercial product that provides light intensity control at the task location without sensing the light level at the same location, daylight sensing with an external photosensor, spectral control of resultant electric and natural light, very simple installation commissioning, and operation that uses ubiquitous digital personal devices for advanced individual user controls and scheduling.

SBIR Recipient: OLEDWorks LLC
Title: Pedestrian Friendly Outdoor Light with Solar Panel
Summary: This Phase I feasibility and initial product design study will investigate the potential impact that source variables made possible by using OLEDWorks’ unique OLED panels might have on color rendering, luminance level, design, light control, and pedestrian perception and comfort. The project will also investigate the potential for outdoor lighting cost reduction facilitated by not having to bury electrical wires and by integrating advanced operational controls that today are not available in commercial luminaires designed for this market. The ultimate goal for a future Phase II grant is to develop a commercial product design for an outdoor OLED luminaire using solar energy for lighting pedestrian areas that would be especially well-suited for remote installations.