Adaptation of OFDM under visible light communications and illumination constraints

Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is increasingly studied and adopted as a modulation technique for RF and optical communication systems. In this paper, we investigate challenges to the adoption of OFDM for use in lighting systems that support both intensity control and data communication based on the visible light communication (VLC) technology. In particular, we survey the requirements for energy efficiency, intensity control (dimming) and light-emitting diode (LED) driver integration in lighting systems. These requirements are mapped to contemporary and novel OFDM adaptations to show how both the lighting and communications needs can be met in dual-use scenarios while preserving both missions with reasonable performance.