Extension modules for network structure function expansion

Abstract

The invention provides an expansion module for functional expansion of a network structure, wherein the network structure (1) has a communication bus (4) for providing communication between a logic unit (3) of a base module (2) of the network structure (1) and one or more expansion modules (5), in particular one or more functional devices and / or communication modules, and wherein the expansion module (5) is designed to be connected to the communication bus (4) of the network structure (1) in order to provide at least one additional function for an electrical consumer connected to the network structure (1), for functional expansion of the network structure (1) or for functional provision of the network structure (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to network structures. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to expansion modules for functionally extending network structures. Background Art

[0002] Electronic devices, in particular operating devices for lighting devices or luminaires, are becoming increasingly complex and have an increasing number of functions, which are usually implemented by corresponding functional units, such as sensors, communication interfaces, remote control units, intelligent electronic devices or similar. In addition, network-capable electronic devices or network devices are known, which can participate in a network of devices or the IoT (Internet of Things), such as luminaires or lighting devices, in a light management system or LMS (light management system). In particular, the connection of luminaires to an IoT network or an LMS can be realized by additional network-specific hardware and software units, which in principle can be different for each network. In addition, electronic devices or luminaires are constantly being upgraded or modified to meet requirements for functionality, controllability and network capabilities. Already existing devices or additional units cannot be used for other networks or other purposes without further embellishment, which can lead to high costs and high environmental pollution. Summary of the invention

[0003] One object of embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide a simple and inexpensive means to enhance the functionality of existing electronic devices or lighting devices.

[0004] In order to solve this problem, according to a first aspect, an expansion module for functionally expanding a network structure is proposed, which has a communication bus or a bus system for providing communication between a logical unit of a basic module of the network structure and one or more expansion modules, in particular one or more functional devices and / or communication modules.

[0005] The extension module is designed or configured to be connected to the communication bus of the network structure for functional extension or functional provision of the network structure, so as to provide at least one additional function or additional functionality for electrical consumers, in particular lighting devices, connected to the network structure. In particular, the additional functionality may include network functionality for controlling and / or electrical loads. In particular, the additional functionality may include the following: the electrical device, in particular the lighting device, can be controlled using a device management system or LMS and / or sensors. In this case, the extension module may be formed separately or as part of a functional device, such as a lamp.

[0006] The extension module may include a power supply part for integrating the extension module into a power supply circuit or a grid circuit of at least one consumer, and a control part including a control unit for controlling the power supply part. In particular, the power supply part may be configured to be connected in series with the consumer in the grid circuit so that the power supplied to the consumer can be easily controlled by controlling the power supply part.

[0007] The power supply section may in particular comprise a circuit breaker for switching at least one consumer on and off, in particular by closing and opening the power supply circuit. Thus, the power switch can be used to easily interrupt the power supply circuit of at least one load when required.

[0008] The control part of the expansion module may include a control interface for connecting the control part of the expansion module to a communication bus or ILB (luminaire internal bus). The control interface thus provides network capability for the control part of the expansion module so that the expansion module can be controlled via a network, in particular via an LMS.

[0009] In some embodiments, the extension module comprises a measuring device for detecting at least one current parameter of the electrical load, in particular an electrical parameter. In particular, the measuring device can be configured to obtain performance and / or diagnostic data of at least one electrical consumer. For example, the current value of the parameter as well as the power and diagnostic data can be used to control and / or diagnose the lamp in the LMS.

[0010] In particular, the measuring device may comprise a Hall sensor and / or a shunt for detecting at least one electrical parameter. Hall sensors and / or shunts are readily available and suitable for acquiring actual electrical parameters from an electrical circuit.

[0011] The additional functionality can include in particular the control of at least one consumer, in particular a light. By connecting the expansion module to the network structure, the functionality of the electrical load can thus subsequently be expanded by a control functionality. The control can in particular be based on a detected value of at least one parameter or power and / or diagnostic data, so that the current operating state of the load is taken into account when controlling the at least one load or light.

[0012] In some embodiments, the expansion module is configured as a master module for controlling one or more slave modules. In particular, the expansion module can act as a central switch for more switches or "slave" switches, so that an LMS with multiple switches, especially for multiple lamps, can be implemented in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0013] The basic module may include a logic unit configured to be connected to a communication bus, in particular to an internal communication bus of a network structure, for providing communication between the logic unit and one or more expansion modules or peripheral devices, in particular one or more functional devices and / or communication modules, so as to achieve functional expansion or function provision of the network structure.

[0014] In particular, the communication bus can be configured to transmit data or signals between the logic unit and the expansion module. In some embodiments, the communication bus is configured to provide power to one or more expansion modules. In particular, the communication bus may include a signal line for serial communication or information transmission and / or a power supply line for powering the expansion module or peripheral device. In some embodiments, the communication bus is formed as a part of the basic module. In particular, the communication bus can be configured to be connected to a plurality of functional devices and / or communication modules as expansion modules to provide the desired functions.

[0015] The logic unit represents in particular a central module or node, through which in particular all network communications can take place. The logic or logic unit thus plays a central role in such a modular network structure. The logic unit can thus forward, process and / or modify information according to predetermined operating scenarios. In particular, the logic unit can comprise a microcontroller with a processor for data processing, a memory unit with a machine-readable code for storing data and the processor, and an interface for connecting the logic unit to a communication bus. The logic unit and / or the microcontroller may further comprise one or more further interfaces, in particular for configuring digital inputs and outputs and / or for converting measurement signals. Configuring the logic unit to perform certain actions means here that, in order to perform these actions, corresponding machine-readable instructions for the processor are stored in the memory unit of the logic unit.

[0016] The logic unit can be configured in such a way that the communication between the logic unit and the expansion modules via the communication bus can be performed, in particular, entirely via an intra-system or proprietary communication protocol. In particular, the intra-system communication protocol can make the communication bus of the network structure more difficult or prevent unauthorized access. In particular, the use of an intra-system or proprietary communication protocol can make the connection of unauthorized expansion modules to the base module more difficult or impossible. Thus, the communication bus can be used as a protected proprietary interface or ILB (Intra-Luminaire Bus) for exchanging data or information between the logic unit and the expansion modules or peripheral devices.

[0017] Functional devices or peripheral devices may in particular include sensor technology or various sensors, drivers, in particular LED drivers, buttons and / or further devices. In the case of a luminaire, a functional device may be configured to sense and / or control the amount of light generated by the luminaire. In particular, a luminaire may include one or more light sources. In particular, a luminaire may include a light source for generating indirect light, for example in the case of a diffuse lighting luminaire, and a light source for generating direct light, for example in the case of a light emitter. In this respect, the control of the amount of light may take place directly via the logic unit or via an LMS integrated in the luminaire. The functional devices may also be used to collect and / or transmit data to the LMS. For example, the functional device may include a CO2 and / or temperature sensor, which detects or monitors the current CO2 concentration or temperature value and provides the detected data, for example for building maintenance or service purposes. In addition, this information can be used to optimize energy consumption or to increase the efficiency of operating processes.

[0018] The one or more communication modules may include a module suitable for wireless communication. The expansion module may include, in particular, a ZigBee, Bluetooth, DALI interface. ZigBee is a registered trademark of the ZigBee Alliance. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group. DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is a registered trademark of the International Alliance for Network Standards in Lighting and Building Automation. By using standardized interfaces, functional devices connected to the communication module can be remotely controlled or integrated into the LMS via standard protocols. In particular, the communication module can be configured to act as an interpreter between the logic unit and the LMS, communicating with the LMS via standard protocols and communicating with the logic unit via the internal or proprietary protocol of the communication bus. The LMS allows customers to control different luminaires individually or in groups and define lighting scenes from simple to complex. An extension module can also be a communication module and a functional device at the same time, for example, a ZigBee module with an integrated PIR sensor (passive infrared sensor).

[0019] Since the logic unit is connected to one or more extension modules via a communication bus, the network structure around the logic unit as the central unit or "core module" can be expanded or extended modularly and flexibly. Therefore, an intelligent lighting system can be realized through basic modules, which allows the customer to determine the functionality, complexity and cost of operating devices or luminaires and adapt them to their own needs. In particular, the basic modules represent a design platform that enables functional devices to be used freely and flexibly, if necessary, in accordance with any specifications, standards and requirements in the desired device network or light management system.

[0020] The logic unit may be configured to search for an expansion module connected to the communication bus via the communication bus. This search function enables the logic unit to determine whether one expansion module or another expansion module is already connected to the communication module and to react accordingly if necessary. If the search determines that the expansion module is connected to the communication bus, the logic unit may be configured to configure an expansion module for the communication bus. In particular, the logic unit may automatically configure the communication module connected to the communication bus as desired, for example, configuring the communication module to automatically initialize the network structure of the LMS.

[0021] In some embodiments, the logic unit also has an interface, in particular a plug-and-play interface, for connecting plug-and-play functional units or functional devices that can be directly controlled by the logic unit via control signals. For example, an LED driver without intrinsic intelligence based on a microcontroller can be connected to the plug-and-play interface and directly controlled by the logic unit. In this case, the factory setting variables of the LED driver can be stored directly in the logic unit. An intelligent LED driver with its own microcontroller can be connected to the communication bus or the ILB interface.

[0022] According to a second aspect, a network structure is provided. The network structure comprises a base module, a communication bus for providing communication between a logic unit of the base module and one or more extension modules, wherein the network structure further comprises an extension module according to the first aspect, connectable to the communication bus of the network structure. The connectable extension module can be used to provide additional functionalities, in particular control and / or networking functionalities of electrical loads. In particular, the additional functionalities can provide these to control electrical consumers, in particular luminaires, with a device management system or LMS and / or sensors. The extension module can be designed separately or as part of a functional device, such as a luminaire.

[0023] In particular, the network structure may comprise a driver for driving an electrical load, wherein the extension module is configured as a driver extension module for connection to the driver, in particular via a communication module or an ILB. Electronic devices requiring a driver, such as lamps, can easily be retrofitted with an extension module connectable to the driver.

[0024] The modular design of the network structure makes it possible to easily upgrade or transform the network structure through expansion modules.

[0025] The network structure may comprise at least one light source, in particular at least one LED light source, and at least one driver, in particular an LED driver, for driving the at least one light source, wherein the at least one driver may be configured as a functional device connectable to a communication bus. In particular, the network structure may be formed as a luminaire. Such a luminaire may be easily equipped with additional functions by connecting additional expansion modules, such as additional functional devices and / or communication modules, to the communication bus.

[0026] In some embodiments, the network structure includes a plug-and-play LED driver connected to the plug-and-unplug interface of the logic unit and directly controllable by the logic unit. Therefore, a simple LED driver that cannot communicate with the logic unit through the system's internal communication bus can be driven directly by the plug-and-play interface.

[0027] At least one expansion module may include at least one communication module for connecting the network structure to the network system or LMS, in particular via a standardized protocol. In particular, at least one communication module may be configured as a communication module for wireless communication with the network system or LMS.

[0028] According to a third aspect, a luminaire is provided. The luminaire can be configured as an LED luminaire, including a light source for generating light, in particular an LED light engine, and a network structure including an expansion module according to the first aspect, wherein the expansion module is configured to provide additional functions of the luminaire.

[0029] In particular, the extension module may comprise a measuring device for detecting at least one current electrical parameter of the luminaire. In particular, the measuring device may be configured to acquire power and / or diagnostic data of at least one electrical load. For example, the current value of the parameter and the power as well as the diagnostic data may be used for controlling and / or diagnosing the luminaire in the LMS. In particular, the diagnostic data may be used for remote diagnosis of the luminaire and / or the LMS.

[0030] A method for configuring an extension module of a network structure is provided, wherein the network structure comprises a basic module having a logic unit and a communication bus, in particular a system-internal communication bus, for providing communication, in particular data communication, between the logic unit and one or more extension modules, in particular one or more functional devices and / or communication modules, for functional expansion or functional provision of the network structure. The method comprises searching, in particular by means of the logic unit, for an extension module connected to the communication bus. This search function enables the logic unit to determine whether further extension modules or modules are connected to the communication module so as to react accordingly if necessary. The method further comprises configuring the extension module for the communication bus if the search determines that the extension module has been connected to the communication bus. Thus, the logic unit can automatically configure the extension module connected to the communication bus as expected, for example, configuring the extension module can automatically initialize the network structure of the LMS.

[0031] The method may include querying whether an expansion module found during the search is a communication module, wherein if the result of the query is that the expansion module found during the search is a communication module, the expansion module may be determined to represent a functional device present in the network structure. Thus, the communication module connected to the communication bus may be automatically configured to connect the network structure to the network, in particular the LMS, when necessary.

[0032] The representation may include informing the communication module of the type of functional device present. Thus, if applicable, information about the type of functional device may be automatically communicated by the communication module to the network, in particular the LMS.

[0033] The method may further comprise sending the network-related or necessary factory settings of the functional device to the communication module. Thus, information about the factory settings of the functional device may be automatically forwarded to the network, in particular the LMS, via the communication module.

[0034] The above-described network structure makes it possible to subsequently calibrate the luminaire, in particular after a predetermined installation, in case the network structure comprises an extension module designed as a luminaire. In particular, calibration data can be obtained on a luminaire of the same type and transmitted to the network structure via the extension module configured as a communication module, in particular a communication module with online functionality. In this way, such a luminaire can subsequently be calibrated independently of the installation and the manufacturer. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used for identical or similarly acting parts.

[0036] Figure 1 The diagram schematically shows a network structure according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 2 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown.

[0038] Figure 3 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown.

[0039] Figure 4 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown.

[0040] Figure 5 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown.

[0041] Figure 6 A flow chart of a method for configuring an expansion module according to one embodiment is shown.

[0042] Figure 7 A flow chart of a method of calibrating a lamp is shown.

[0043] Figure 8 A network structure configured as a luminaire according to one embodiment is shown.

[0044] Fig. 9 A network structure with a driver according to another embodiment is shown.

[0045] Fig.10 shows a circuit diagram of an expansion module according to one embodiment, and

[0046] Fig.11 Shown according to Fig.10 Schematic diagram of an application example of the expansion module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows a network structure or interconnection according to an embodiment. The network structure 1 comprises a basic module 2 with a logic unit 3, a communication bus 4 and an expansion module 5 which is functionally connected to the logic unit 3. Figure 1 In the embodiment, three expansion modules 5 are connected to the logic unit 3. An expansion module 5 in the form of a Zigbee module 6 and an expansion module 5 in the form of a sensor module 7 are connected to the logic unit 3 via a communication bus 4. An expansion module 5 in the form of an LED driver 8 is connected to the logic unit 3 via an interface 9. Figure 1 Also shown is a light source 10, which is electrically connected to the LED driver 8 and can be controlled by the LED driver 8. The Zigbee module 6 is suitable for communicating with the LMS 20 ( Figure 1 ) connection is shown symbolically in FIG.

[0048] Figure 2A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown. Figure 2 The network structure 1 or interconnection comprises a base module 2 with a logic unit 3, and an extension module 5 functionally connected to the logic unit 3. The functional connection between the logic unit 3 and the extension module 5 is schematically represented by a double-sided arrow. The extension module 5 can be a functional device or a communication module. In this embodiment, the network structure 1 represents an independent lamp, in which one extension module 5 is configured as an LED driver for controlling the light of the lamp.

[0049] and Figure 1 Similarly, the expansion module 5 is connected via the communication bus or ILB ( Figure 2 4 (not shown) is connected to the logic unit 3. In particular, the logic unit 3 can be configured so that the functional connection or communication between the logic unit 3 and the expansion module 5 via the communication bus can be through an in-system or proprietary communication protocol. In some embodiments, all expansion modules 5 are connected to the logic unit 3 entirely via a proprietary ILB. In some embodiments, the logic unit 3 includes an additional interface, in particular a plug-and-play interface, in particular an LED driver can be directly connected to it. The plug-and-play interface can be designed as a protected proprietary interface, so that the use of unapproved or unqualified LED drivers or other expansion modules can be prevented. In particular, the logic unit 3 can be configured so that an LED driver without a microcontroller-based proprietary intelligence can be directly connected to the plug-and-play interface. In this case, any factory-set variables of the LED driver can be stored directly in the logic unit, so that the LED driver can be directly controlled by the logic unit 3. For the LED driver or further expansion modules 5, they have their own intelligence or their own microcontroller, which can be connected to the logic unit 3 via the communication bus 4 or ILB. The logic unit 3 may be designed to search for expansion modules 5 or peripheral devices via the ILB and to receive, process and send information to the peripheral devices via the ILB in standalone mode, in particular without integrating the network structure 1 into the LMS.

[0050] Figure 3 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown. Figure 3 The network structure 1 basically corresponds to Figure 2The network structure 1 further has an extension module in the form of a communication module 30, via which the network structure 1 can be connected to the LMS 20 (symbolically shown). A further extension module 5 is a functional device, which is connected to the communication module 30 via a logic unit 3. The connection between the functional devices and the communication module 30 can be flexibly configured via the logic unit 3. In particular, the functional devices can be assigned to the communication module 30 via the logic unit 3 individually, in groups or not at all. In particular, the logic unit 3 can be configured to, after detecting a communication module 30 connected to the communication bus 4, configure it accordingly and initialize its participation in the corresponding LMS 20. The following Figure 6 The flow chart shows the corresponding process flow.

[0051] Figure 4 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown. Figure 4 The network structure 1 and Figure 3 The network structure 1 is basically corresponding to the network structure 1, and further includes a further communication module 30'. Therefore, in addition to the first communication module 30, Figure 4 The network structure 1 further comprises a second communication module 30', wherein the network structure 1 can be connected to the LMS 20 (as shown by the symbol) via the first communication module 30 and the second communication module 30'. Figure 4 The embodiment shown corresponds to a situation where, when the number of functional devices reaches the limit of the communication modules that can operate normally in the LMS, another communication module of the same type is then connected to the logic. The logic unit 3 can be configured in particular to be connected to a plurality of communication modules 30, 30' via a communication bus 4 or an ILB to ensure the normal operation of a plurality of functional devices in the LMS. In particular, the logic unit 3 can be configured to assign functional devices to the various communication modules 30, 30' so that the network structure 1 can be easily expanded by accommodating more functional devices. For example, some expansion modules 5 or functional devices can be assigned to the first communication module 30, while other expansion modules 5' or functional devices can be assigned to the second communication module 30'.

[0052] Figure 5 A network structure according to another embodiment is schematically shown. Figure 5 The network structure 1 is basically the same as Figure 4 The network structure 1 corresponds to this. Figure 5Refers to the application case when the customer is given the possibility to display the expansion modules 5, 5' or functional devices connected to the logic unit 3 alternately or simultaneously in two LMSs 20, 20'. For this purpose, according to the embodiment shown, two different communication modules 30, 30' are used, which can be configured by the logic unit 3. In this case, the logic unit 3 changes to multi-master mode operation due to the simultaneous presence of two different LMSs 20, 20'.

[0053] Above Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The network structure described in can be adapted to subsequently calibrate the luminaires for more precise color control and optimized maintenance. For example, measurements can be performed on luminaires of the same luminaire type as provided and the calibration data can be provided as an online update to an existing installation. For this option, an expansion module or peripheral is installed at the time of installation or a module or peripheral with "online update" capability (such as a ZigBee peripheral) is used if necessary. Such calibration data may include, among other things, information about the warmest and coldest color temperature, the rated luminous flux and power and / or color rendering index (CRI) of the luminaire, as well as information about the manufacturer. An example of such a subsequent calibration is described in Figure 7 The flow chart is shown in FIG.

[0054] Figure 6 A flow chart of a method for configuring an expansion module according to an embodiment is shown. In particular, Figure 6 The method 100 of expanding a module or peripheral device may be Figure 1 , 3 , 4 and 5. Figure 6 In the embodiment of the method 100 shown, after the start 105 of the method 100, in method step 110, a search is performed for peripheral devices or expansion modules 5 connected to the base module 2, in particular via the communication bus 4 or the ILB. In a subsequent step 115, the discovered peripheral devices or expansion modules 5 are configured as the communication bus or the ILB. By configuring the expansion module in method step 115, the expansion module 5 or the peripheral device is enabled to participate in the communication via the communication bus 4. In a query step 120, it is queried whether the discovered expansion module or peripheral device is a communication module.

[0055] If the result of the query in step 120 is that the expansion module 5 found is a communication module, then in method step 125 it can be determined that the communication module represents a functional device that already exists in the network structure 1 in the LMS. In method step 130, the peripheral or communication module 30 is then informed of the type of functional device to be represented. In method step 135, the factory settings of the functional device required for participation in the LMS are then sent to the communication module 30. In method step 140, the peripheral device or the found communication module is activated for participation in the LMS. Thereafter, the method 100 for configuring an expansion module is terminated by method step 145.

[0056] If query step 120 establishes that the expansion module is not a communication module, the expansion module is identified as a functional device in method step 150. In a subsequent method step 155, the functional device is initialized and the method ends with method step 145.

[0057] Figure 7 A flow chart of a method for calibrating a lamp is shown. In particular, Figure 7 The method 200 shown may be used to calibrate a Figures 1 to 5 The internal structure of the lamp is shown in one of the network structures. Figure 7 In the embodiment of the method 200 shown, after the start 205 of the method 200, a query 210 is performed by the logic unit 3 to determine whether a luminaire is present or connected to the ILB. If the result of the query 210 is that a luminaire is present, in method step 215 a luminaire, in particular a luminaire of the same type, is measured for calibration. In method step 220 data for calibration are acquired, and in method step 225 the acquired calibration data are transmitted to an online peripheral device or a communication module of the network structure. In a subsequent step 230, the logic unit 3 is informed of the acquired data and the control, in particular the color control of the luminaire, is adjusted accordingly. In method step 235, the luminaire data are provided to the LMS and method step 240 terminates the method. If the query of step 120 shows that no luminaire, in particular no luminaire of the desired luminaire type, a luminaire is requested to be measured in method step 245.

[0058] This calibration option enables the customer to minimize the logistical efforts associated with commissioning the LMS. This is because usually luminaires with LED drivers are individually calibrated when they leave the factory. In the case of the luminaires described here, the luminaires can be purchased flexibly, especially from the desired manufacturer, and only then calibrated, especially according to the calibration procedure described above.

[0059] In addition to the possibility of subsequent factory-independent calibration, the network structure based on the platform design described above offers several advantages. For example, such a network structure or system can be easily expanded by connecting further expansion modules, in particular functional devices and / or communication modules to the communication bus or ILB. In addition, the functional devices can be used flexibly for different networks or LMSs or for a stand-alone device or luminaire as required. In addition, due to the flexibility of the communication modules, different functional devices can be integrated into an LMS individually or simultaneously. The modularity of the network structure thus simplifies the change from one, for example, outdated LMS to another, in particular future-oriented LMS, without having to discard the already existing functional devices. In addition to the direct economic advantages, this is of decisive significance for luminaire manufacturers and customers, especially in terms of the "circular economy" and increasingly stringent environmental protection regulations. The ability to subsequently calibrate the luminaires means that precise light color control and high-quality human-centric lighting (HCL) can be achieved, for example, with a particularly realistic imitation of daylight.

[0060] Figure 8 FIG. 1 shows a network structure of a lamp formed according to an embodiment. Figure 8 In the embodiment of the present invention, the luminaire 60 is exemplarily configured as a so-called LED chandelier. The luminaire 60 includes an LED light source or LED light engine (not shown) for generating LED light, a housing 61 having a light emitting window 62, and a suspension device 63 for suspending the luminaire 60 from a ceiling. The luminaire 60 further includes a driver 8 (not shown) for driving the LED light engine or light emitting device, a network structure 1 (not shown) including a communication bus 4 or an ILB according to any of the above aspects. The network structure 1 is implemented in the light engine 60 by a base module 2 (not shown), which is connected to the driver 8 in the form of an interconnection module, as follows: Fig. 9 It should be understood that Figure 8 While an exemplary embodiment of a lighting fixture is described, the network architecture described herein is not limited to a specific power load or a specific lighting fixture.

[0061] Fig. 9 FIG. 2 shows a network structure with a driver according to another embodiment. Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the driver 8 is configured to control a lamp, for example Figure 8 The luminaire shown in FIG. A base module 2 or interconnection module having a communication bus 4 or ILB is connected to a driver 8. The base module 2 has an interface 9 for connecting an expansion module 5 to the base module. Fig. 9In the diagram, two extension modules 5 are schematically shown as examples, namely a Zigbee module 6 for providing wireless communication via the Zigbee protocol and a sensor module 7 with a motion detector for detecting motion signals and controlling the luminaire based on the detected motion signals. However, the communication bus 4 or the interface 9 is also designed to be connected to more than two, in particular multiple, extension modules. In particular, due to the scalability of the luminaire 60, by connecting more participants or connection peripherals or extension modules to the communication module 4 or the ILB, such an "interconnected luminaire" can communicate with the LMS or be controlled by it on the basis of bus-capable sensors or sensor peripherals.

[0062] Fig.10 A schematic circuit diagram of an expansion module according to an embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the expansion module 5 is present in the form of a switching device 70. In particular, the circuit arrangement can form an expansion module 5 or a part of an expansion module 5 for connecting to a communication bus 4 of a network structure 1. The switching device 70 comprises an input terminal 71 with an input terminal, in particular a power input terminal, and an output terminal 72 with an output terminal, wherein the input terminal 71 and the output terminal 72 are connected to each other via a controllable switch contact, in particular a switch 74 or power switch that can be driven by a switch driver 73. The switch 74 can be a relay switch and / or a semiconductor switch. The circuit arrangement 70 comprises a control unit 75, a measuring device 76 or a sensor system and a control input 77 or a control interface.

[0063] The measuring device 76 is electrically connected to the input terminal 71 and is suitable for detecting a current input parameter, in particular an output current, an input voltage and / or an input power, and sending a measurement signal corresponding to the detected input parameter to the control unit 75. The control unit 75 can be configured to detect the measurement signal generated by the measuring device 76 and to control the switch driver 73 to open or close the switch 74 according to the detected measurement signal. The control input terminal 77 is configured to be connected to the communication bus 4 or to the bus system or ILB of the network structure 1. The measuring device 76 can in particular include a power measurement unit, in particular a Hall sensor and / or a shunt, and is configured to measure the power consumption of the connected load, in particular the lamp. The result of this power measurement can be transmitted to the LMS via the communication bus 4. The circuit arrangement 70 can be designed as an external component and / or as a component integrated in the lamp.

[0064] The measuring device 76 can be used in particular to read out power data, while the switch 74 can be used to control the luminaire, in particular remotely, based on the power data recorded by the measuring device 76. The circuit arrangement 70 represents a so-called master / slave switch box, which can be used to switch an external user, in particular a luminaire, on the power supply side. In particular, the circuit arrangement 70 can serve as a central switch for further switches or "slave" switches, so that an LMS with a plurality of switches can be realized in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0065] Fig.11 Shows Fig.10 The circuit diagram of an application example of the expansion module is shown in FIG. Fig.11 In the application example shown, the circuit arrangement 70 or the master / slave box is used to control a lamp 60 . Fig.11 Also shown is a power supply circuit having power lines L and N for supplying power to the lamp 60. Fig.10 The circuit arrangement 70 has an input 71 and an output 72, which are connected to a power supply circuit 80. In this case, the circuit arrangement 70 is connected in series with the lamp 60, and in order to supply power to the lamp 60, current must flow through the switch 74 of the circuit arrangement 70. Therefore, the circuit arrangement 70 performs the function of a switch, in particular a conventional switch, which switches the lamp off and on by interrupting or establishing the power supply. Fig.11 Also shown is a driver 8 and a Fig. 9 A base module 2 or interconnection module connected to the drive 8, wherein the interface 9 of the base module 2 is electrically connected to the control input 77 of the circuit device 70 via a communication bus 4 or ILB. Communication with the LMS 20 or integration of sensors or further expansion modules can take place via the communication bus 4 shown, which also enables the integration of sensor ZigBee or DALI components. Fig.11 It is to be noted that the circuit arrangement 70 can in principle be used to control any type of electrical consumer or luminaire, in particular conventional luminaires. The power supply part of the switchgear 70, in particular the switch 74 as well as the input 71 or input terminal and the output 72 or output terminal, can be configured or dimensioned in particular according to the specific application so that the switchgear 70 can withstand the expected maximum current. As described above, the circuit breaker can be controlled via a bus system or an ILB, so that the circuit breaker 74 or the switching contacts of the circuit breaker 74 can be controlled by an LMS, in particular using a connection peripheral, or by a sensor, in particular using a sensor peripheral.

[0066] The power supply for the bus system or the ILB can be provided continuously or uninterruptedly by the "interconnected lamp". In this way, maximum availability of the functions of the system or circuit device 70 is ensured. By using such an extension module, the effort and costs can be reduced when switching from a conventional lighting solution (especially switching multiple lamps on and off with switches directly or on the power supply side) to an LMS-based lighting solution. In addition, the LMS provides various functions for the automation and remote maintenance of lighting solutions. The above-mentioned functions of remote lighting control (on / off) and / or power consumption measurement can also be implemented with the help of the LMS. If, for example, a building with a conventional lighting system is to be converted to a lighting system based on a lighting management system, this involves expensive modifications. In particular, these changes may involve replacing individual components (such as drivers) and / or - usually - replacing entire lamps.

[0067] Even in the case of new installations of an LMS (e.g. in new buildings), additional expenditures are incurred, since here too, intelligent luminaires or drivers have to be used. An LMS or luminaires configured for an LMS are therefore always associated with higher costs compared to conventional lighting solutions. The principles described in this article enable conventional lighting installations to be upgraded so that they can be operated by a lighting management system. Furthermore, the principles described here can also be used in new installations as a low-cost alternative to a comprehensive LMS. In particular, functions such as remote control by an LMS or sensors, reporting of energy consumption and primary diagnostic functions can be implemented.

[0068] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been shown in the foregoing description, various changes and modifications may be made. The embodiments described are examples only and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the present disclosure in any way. On the contrary, the above description provides a plan for implementing at least one exemplary embodiment for those skilled in the art, wherein many changes in the functions and arrangements of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of protection of the attached claims and their legal equivalents. In addition, according to the principles described herein, multiple modules or multiple products can be interconnected to provide additional functionality.

[0069] List of Reference Numerals

[0070] 1 Network Structure

[0071] 2 Basic Modules

[0072] 3 Logical Unit

[0073] 4 Communication bus

[0074] 5,5' extension module

[0075] 6 Zigbee Module

[0076] 7 Sensor Module

[0077] 8 LED Driver

[0078] 9 Interface

[0079] 10 Light Source

[0080] 20, 20' LMS

[0081] 30,30′ Communication module

[0082] 60 Lamps

[0083] 61 Housing

[0084] 62 Light exit window

[0085] 63 Suspension

[0086] 70 Switching device

[0087] 71 Input

[0088] 72 Output

[0089] 73 Switch Driver

[0090] 74 Switch

[0091] 75 Control Unit

[0092] 76 Measuring device

[0093] 77 Control Input

[0094] 80 Power circuit

[0095] 100 How to configure an extension module

[0096] 105 Process Steps

[0097] 110 Process Steps

[0098] 115 Process Steps

[0099] 120 process steps

[0100] 125 Process Steps

[0101] 130 process steps

[0102] 135 Process Steps

[0103] 140 Process Steps

[0104] 145 Process Steps

[0105] 150 process steps

[0106] 155 Process Steps

[0107] 160 process steps

[0108] 200 Methods for calibrating lamps

[0109] 205 Process Steps

[0110] 210 Process Steps

[0111] 215 Process Steps

[0112] 220 Process Steps

[0113] 225 Process Steps

[0114] 230 Process Steps

[0115] 235 Process Steps

[0116] 240 Process Steps

[0117] 245 Process Steps

Claims

1. Extension modules for functional extension of lighting management network structure, in, The network structure (1) has a communication bus (4) configured as an intra-lamp bus ILB, which is used to provide communication between a logic unit (3) and one or more extension modules (5) of a base module (2) of the network structure (1), and wherein the extension module (5) is designed to be connected to the communication bus (4) of the network structure (1) for function expansion or function provision of the network structure (1) so as to provide at least one additional function for the lamp connected to the network structure (1), and wherein the configuration of the extension module enables communication between the logic unit (3) and the extension module (5) to be performed via an intra-system communication protocol, wherein the extension module (5) includes a power supply part for integrating the extension module into a power supply circuit of the lamp (60) and a control part including a control unit for controlling the power supply part, and wherein the power supply part includes a power switch (74) for turning on and off the lamp (60), and wherein the control part is configured to receive calibration data of the lamp via the communication bus and control the lamp according to the calibration data received via the communication bus.

2. An expansion module according to claim 1, wherein the control part comprises a control interface (77) for connecting the expansion module to a communication bus (4) of the network structure (1).

3. The expansion module according to claim 1, in, The expansion module (5) comprises a measuring device (76) for detecting at least one current parameter of the lamp (60).

4. The expansion module according to claim 3, in, The measuring device (76) is configured to acquire power and / or diagnostic data of the lamp (60). 5 . The expansion module according to claim 3 , wherein the measuring device ( 76 ) comprises a Hall sensor and / or a shunt for detecting at least one parameter.

6. The expansion module according to the preceding claim 1, wherein the expansion module (5) is configured as a master module controlling one or more slave modules.

7. A network structure of a lighting management system, comprising a basic module (2) and a communication bus (4) for providing communication between a logic unit (3) of the basic module (2) and one or more extension modules (5), wherein the network structure (1) comprises an extension module connected to the communication bus (4) of the network structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

8. The network structure according to claim 7, in, The network structure (1) further comprises a driver (8) for driving the lamp (60), and wherein the extension module (5) is configured as a driver extension module for connecting to the driver (8).

9. The network structure according to claim 7 or 8, include: - a luminaire having a light source for generating light; and - The extension module (5) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the extension module (5) is configured to provide an auxiliary function of the luminaire (60).

10. The network structure according to claim 9, in, The expansion module (5) comprises a measuring device (76) for detecting at least one current electrical parameter of the lamp (60).

11. The network structure according to claim 10, wherein the measuring device (76) is configured to acquire power and / or diagnostic data of the lamp (60).

12. The network structure according to claim 11, in, The expansion module (5) is configured as a master module that controls one or more slave modules.

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