The technology industry continues to be a hotbed of innovation. Activity is driven by the rapid emergence and widespread adoption of game-changing technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), and mobility, and growing importance of technologies such as light emitting diodes, photodetectors, signal processing algorithm, and light fidelity communication (Li-Fi) transceiver modules. These technologies collectively enable high-speed wireless communication using visible light in Li-Fi systems for applications where traditional radio frequency-based wireless communication may be limited or problematic. In the last three years alone, there have been over 3.6 million patents filed and granted in the technology industry, according to GlobalData’s report on Innovation in Cloud: Light fidelity communication (Li-fi). Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s Technology Foresights, which uses over 2.5 million patents to analyse innovation intensity for the technology industry, there are 300+ innovation areas that will shape the future of the industry.
Light fidelity communication (Li-Fi) is a key innovation area in cloud
Li-Fi refers to a wireless communication method that employs visible light communication (VLC) for transmitting data across rapid internet connections. In contrast to Wi-Fi, which relies on radio frequencies, Li-Fi utilises visible light within the range of 400 to 800 terahertz (THz). This technology operates on similar principles as other wireless networks, utilising LED lights to send data in binary code format. By harnessing Li-Fi, it becomes possible to offer exceptionally fast broadband speeds, enabling users to access the internet without the need for extra equipment.
GlobalData’s analysis also uncovers the companies at the forefront of each innovation area and assesses the potential reach and impact of their patenting activity across different applications and geographies. According to GlobalData, there are 200+ companies, spanning technology vendors, established technology companies, and up-and-coming start-ups engaged in the development and application of light fidelity communication (Li-Fi).
Key players in light fidelity communication (Li-Fi) – a disruptive innovation in the technology industry
‘Application diversity’ measures the number of different applications identified for each relevant patent. It broadly splits companies into either ‘niche’ or ‘diversified’ innovators.
‘Geographic reach’ refers to the number of different countries each relevant patent is registered in. It reflects the breadth of geographic application intended, ranging from ‘global’ to ‘local’.
Patent volumes related to light fidelity communication (Li-Fi)
Source: GlobalData Patent Analytics
Panasonic is one of the leading patent filers in light fidelity communication (Li-Fi). The company’s patents are aimed at an information communication method including continuously capturing an image of a subject that transmits a signal by changing luminance, with an image sensor, and displaying a captured image that includes a box.
The method also includes determining whether the subject is in the box and receiving the signal transmitted by the subject when it is determined that the subject is in the box. In the receiving, image data is obtained by capturing the subject with an exposure time, the signal is obtained by demodulating a bright line pattern, and the bright line pattern is caused to appear in the image data by setting the exposure time to be less than or equal to 1/480 second.
Other prominent patent filers in the space include Signify and Samsung.
By geographic reach, Texas Instruments leads the pack, followed by Procter & Gamble and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. In terms of application diversity, Walmart holds the top position, followed by Texas Instruments and International Mobile IoT.
The significance of Li-Fi lies in its potential to revolutionise wireless communication by providing high-speed, secure, and energy-efficient connectivity. With its unique characteristics and advantages, Li-Fi opens new possibilities for various applications, including smart homes, smart cities, industrial automation, healthcare, transportation, and beyond.
To further understand how cloud is disrupting the technology industry, access GlobalData’s latest thematic research report on Cloud Computing – Thematic Intelligence.
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GlobalData, the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article.
GlobalData’s Patent Analytics tracks patent filings and grants from official offices around the world. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
