Control device for a lighting load and method of programming a control device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a control device for a lighting load, a lighting system comprising the control device, and a method for programming the control device. A control device for a lighting load includes a panel, a switching region disposed at the panel for triggering an operation to selectively turn on or off the lighting load, and an adjustment region for triggering an operation to adjust a lighting intensity of the lighting load. The control device enters a programming mode in which the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load when the switching region and the regulation region are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range with the control device being powered on.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure belongs to the field of electrical control, and in particular, relates to a control device for a lighting load, a method for programming the control device for a lighting load, and a lighting system. Background Art

[0002] The user may wish to control the electrical load via a control device. For example, these electrical loads may include, but are not limited to, lighting loads, audio / video equipment (e.g., televisions, stereos, etc.), heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, electric curtains, electric screens, fans, etc. The electrical load may have operating parameters. For example, in the case where the electrical load is a lighting load, the operating parameters may include, but are not limited to, lighting intensity (or illumination), lighting range, lighting angle, etc. For example, in the case where the electrical load is an HVAC device, the operating parameters may include, but are not limited to, air conditioning setting temperature, etc. For example, in the case where the electrical load is an electric curtain or electric screen, the operating parameters may include, but are not limited to, lateral or longitudinal movement distance. For example, in the case where the electrical load is a fan, the operating parameters may include, but are not limited to, fan speed, etc. In some cases, for the flexibility of control, it is desired that the control device for the electrical load is programmable.

[0003] Typically, control devices for lighting loads include dimmers, which are electrical devices that change the luminous flux of a light source in a lighting device and adjust the illumination level. The basic principle is to change the power of the input light source (for example, the effective value of current or voltage, etc.) to achieve the purpose of dimming.

[0004] For example, in the prior art, U.S. Patent No. 7663325B2 discloses a wall box dimmer for controlling the intensity level of a lamp, which has a normal operation mode and a programming mode. When entering the programming mode, the air gap switch actuator is first operated to open the air gap switch to cut off the power supply of the microcontroller, and then the switching actuator is pressed and held, while the air gap actuator is closed. The microcontroller detects the power-on state, that is, the power has been restored through the air gap switch, and the user continues to press the switching actuator for a period of time (e.g., 4 seconds), and the dimmer enters the programming mode. However, this operation method of entering the programming mode is relatively cumbersome, and the user experience is not good.

[0005] For example, in the prior art, Chinese invention patent application CN114174968A discloses a load control device with a capacitive touch surface, which has a normal operation mode and a programming mode. When entering the programming mode, the user touches the area above the actuation pivot axis, and the control device enters the advanced programming mode in response to the touch actuation. The touch actuation can also be applied to other positions on the front surface, as long as these positions are away from the first tactile switch and the second tactile switch. However, this method still has the possibility of misoperation, which affects the user experience. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure proposes a control device for a lighting load, a method for programming a control device for a lighting load, and a lighting system to solve at least part of the above problems.

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure proposes a control device for a lighting load, comprising: a panel; a switch area arranged at the panel, for triggering an operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load; an adjustment area arranged at the panel, for triggering an operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load; wherein, when the control device is powered on, when the switch area and the adjustment area are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode, and in the programming mode, the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0008] Further, the first aspect of the present disclosure may include any one or more of the following preferred forms.

[0009] In some preferred forms, the switch area and the adjustment area are formed as one body, the switch area includes a key switch or a touch switch, and the adjustment area includes a touch response device.

[0010] In some preferred forms, the switch area and the adjustment area are spaced apart, the switch area includes a key switch or a touch switch, and the adjustment area includes a key response device or a touch response device.

[0011] In some preferred forms, the switch area includes at least a first switch area and a second switch area, the first switch area is used to trigger the operation of turning on the lighting load, and the second switch area is used to trigger the operation of turning off the lighting load; and when one of the first switch area and the second switch area and a portion of the adjustment area are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode.

[0012] In some preferred forms, the adjustment area includes at least a first adjustment area and a second adjustment area, the first adjustment area is used to trigger an operation to increase the lighting intensity of the lighting load, and the second adjustment area is used to trigger an operation to reduce the lighting intensity of the lighting load; and when a portion of the switch area and one of the first adjustment area and the second adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode.

[0013] In some preferred forms, the control device further comprises: an indication module disposed at the panel, for at least one of indicating the lighting intensity of the lighting load, adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, and programming the characteristics of the lighting load.

[0014] In some preferred forms, the indicator module includes one visual indicator or a plurality of visual indicators arranged at intervals.

[0015] In some preferred forms, the indication module is disposed adjacent to the adjustment region or at least a portion of the indication module is disposed at the adjustment region.

[0016] In some preferred forms, the control device enters the programming mode when the switch areas are individually actuated for a second threshold time range.

[0017] In some preferred forms, the control device also includes a controller operably coupled to the switch zone and the adjustment zone, configured to determine the amount of time the switch zone and the adjustment zone are actuated; and in the programming mode, the controller is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0018] A second aspect of the present disclosure proposes a method for programming a control device for a lighting load, wherein the control device includes a switch area for triggering an operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load and an adjustment area for triggering an operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, the method comprising: when the control device is powered on, when the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, causing the control device to enter a programming mode, in which the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0019] In some preferred forms, the control device also includes a controller operably coupled to the switch zone and the adjustment zone, configured to determine the amount of time the switch zone and the adjustment zone are actuated; and in the programming mode, the controller is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0020] A third aspect of the present disclosure proposes a method for programming a control device for a lighting load, wherein the control device includes a switch area for triggering an operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load, an adjustment area for triggering an operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, and a controller operably coupled to the switch area and the adjustment area, the method comprising: when the control device is powered on, the controller determines whether the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously; if the controller determines that the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, causing the control device to enter a programming mode, in which the controller is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0021] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure provides a lighting system, comprising: at least one lighting load; and a control device for the lighting load according to the first aspect.

[0022] According to the technical solution of the present disclosure, the operation of controlling the device to enter the programming mode is simple and easy to perform, which provides a better user experience and can effectively prevent or reduce the risk of misoperation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The embodiments are shown and explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are used to illustrate the basic principles, and only the aspects necessary for understanding the basic principles are shown. These drawings are not to scale. In the drawings, the same reference numerals represent similar features. In addition, the connection between each box in the architecture diagram indicates that the two boxes are electrically coupled, and the absence of a connection between the two boxes does not mean that the two boxes are not coupled.

[0024] Figure 1 A block diagram of an illumination system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figure 2 A front view of a control device for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 A perspective view of a control device.

[0027] Figure 4 A front view of another control device for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 A perspective view of a control device.

[0029] Figure 6 A simplified block diagram of an exemplary circuit for a lighting system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0030] Figure 7 A flow chart of a method for programming a control device for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0031] Figure 8 A flow chart of a method for programming a control device for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Reference numerals

[0033] 100 Lighting Systems

[0034] 1 power supply, 2 control device, 3 lighting load

[0035] 2a, 2b control device

[0036] 20a, 20b panels, 21a, 21b switch areas

[0037] 22a, 22b intensity area, 23a, 23b indicator module, 24a gap

[0038] 211a, 211b first switch area, 212a, 212b second switch area

[0039] 221a, 221b first adjustment area, 222a, 222b second adjustment area

[0040] 200 Lighting System

[0041] 201 power supply, 202 control device, 203 lighting load, 204 gap switch

[0042] 2021 controller, 2022 controllable conductive device, 2023 drive circuit

[0043] 2024 zero-crossing detector, 2025 power supply device, 2026 storage device

[0044] 2027 indicator module, 2028 input circuit DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] In the following specific description of the preferred embodiments, reference will be made to the attached drawings that form a part of the present disclosure. The attached drawings show, by way of example, specific embodiments that can implement the present disclosure. The illustrative embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive of all embodiments according to the present disclosure. It will be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following specific description is not restrictive, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the attached claims.

[0046] Before introducing the embodiments of the present disclosure, some terms involved in the present disclosure are first explained to facilitate a better understanding of the present disclosure.

[0047] The terms "connection", "coupling" or "coupling" and similar terms used in the present disclosure are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. "A", "a group" or "an" and similar words do not indicate a quantity limitation, but indicate the presence of at least one.

[0048] The terms "include", "comprising" and similar terms used in this disclosure should be understood as open terms, that is, "include / include but not limited to", indicating that other content may also be included. The term "based on" means "based at least in part on". The term "one embodiment" means "at least one embodiment"; the term "another embodiment" means "at least one other embodiment" and so on. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of the different embodiments or examples, unless they are contradictory.

[0049] The present disclosure aims to provide a control device for lighting loads, which can enter a programming mode of the control device through simple and convenient operations, while also preventing or reducing the risk of user misoperation.

[0050] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an exemplary lighting system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the lighting system 100 includes a power supply 1, a lighting load 3, and a control device 2 connected between the power supply 1 and the lighting load 3. The lighting load 3 may include one or more lighting devices (or light sources), such as incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, LED lamps, electronic low voltage (ELV) loads or magnetic low voltage (MLV) loads, etc. The control device 2 obtains power from the power supply 1 to achieve power-on, and the control device 2 can be used to control the lighting load 3 when powered on, including but not limited to lighting-off (ON-OFF, also called open-close), working (or operating) parameter adjustment, etc. In other examples, the power supply may be an external power supply (e.g., direct current DC / alternating current AC power supply, etc.), and is not included in the lighting system. Typically, the lighting control device is such as a dimmer, which controls the power to the lighting load to achieve the purpose of dimming.

[0052] Combine the following Figure 2-Figure 5 Different embodiments of the control device 2 will be described.

[0053] Figure 2 FIG. 2 shows a front view of a control device 2a for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 A perspective view of a control device 2a is shown, which can be used, for example, Figure 1 A lighting system 100 or a lighting load 3.

[0054] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the control device 2a includes a panel 20a, a switch area 21a and an adjustment area 22a provided at the panel 20a. The control device 2a may have a normal operation mode and a programming mode. When the control device 2a is powered on, in the normal operation mode, the switch area 21a is used to trigger the operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load. In the normal operation mode, the adjustment area 22a is used to trigger the operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load. When the control device 2a is powered on, when the switch area 21a and the adjustment area 22a are simultaneously actuated and last for a first threshold time range (e.g., 6 seconds or more), the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In the programming mode, the control device 2a is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load. For example, one or more operating characteristics may include, but are not limited to, an intensity level associated with a preset, enablement / disablement of an indication module (if any, such as an indicator light), low-end fine adjustment (e.g., the minimum intensity level to which the lighting load can be set), high-end fine adjustment (e.g., the maximum intensity level to which the lighting load can be set), etc.

[0055] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the switch area 21a and the adjustment area 22a are located on two discontinuous surfaces, and the two areas 21a and 22a are separated by a gap or a gap 24a. That is, the actuation of the switch area 21a and the actuation of the adjustment area 22a can be operated independently.

[0056] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the switch area 21a may include a key switch (for example, including a key response device), the key switch includes a first key arranged in the first switch area 211a and a second key arranged in the second switch area 212a, the first and second keys may be used to turn on and off (or vice versa, turn off and on) the lighting load, respectively. The key switch may be, for example, a pivot switch, wherein the first and second keys are located on a key panel (or a separate key panel), and the key panel is arranged in a pivoting manner.

[0057] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the adjustment area 22a may include another key switch (for example, including a key response device), the key switch includes a third key arranged in the first adjustment area 221a and a fourth key arranged in the second adjustment area 222a, and the third and fourth keys can be used to increase and decrease (or vice versa, decrease and increase) the lighting intensity of the lighting load, respectively. The key switch can be, for example, a pivot switch, wherein the third key and the fourth key are located on a key panel (or a separate key panel), and the key panel is arranged in a pivoting manner.

[0058] For example, when one of the first switch area 211a and the second switch area 212 and a portion of the adjustment area 221a are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range, the control device 2a enters the programming mode.

[0059] For example, when a portion of the switch area 21a and one of the first adjustment area 221a and the second adjustment area 222a are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range, the control device 2a enters the programming mode.

[0060] In one example, when the first button (in area 211a) and the third button (in area 221a, as marked with "+") are pressed simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In one example, when the second button (in area 212a) and the third button (in area 221a) are pressed simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In one example, when the first button (in area 211a) and the fourth button (in area 222a, as marked with "-") are pressed simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In one example, when the second button (in area 212a) and the fourth button (in area 222a) are pressed simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In these examples, at least some different key combinations may also correspond to different threshold time ranges or different programming combinations to cause the control device 2a to enter different programming modes when the key combinations are actuated for the threshold time range.

[0061] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiment of the control device 2a, the control device 2a may further include an indication module 23a disposed at the panel 20a. For example, the indication module 23a may be used to characterize or indicate at least one of the following, including but not limited to: the lighting intensity of the lighting load, the adjustment of the lighting intensity of the lighting load, the programming of the operating characteristics of the lighting load, other working parameters, or other control actions. Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the indicator module 23a includes a plurality of visual indicators (eight are shown, which are for illustration only and not limitation) arranged at intervals, such as indicator lights (such as LED lights). For example, the plurality of visual indicators can be arranged in a linear array along the length direction of the adjustment area 22a, or arranged in other ways.

[0062] In one example, multiple visual indicators may represent the lighting intensity of a lighting load. For example, the level of the lighting intensity of the lighting load may correspond to the position and on / off state of the indicator. For example, when one indicator light is on and the rest of the indicator lights are off, the position of the indicator light may correspond to the corresponding lighting intensity level.

[0063] In one example, multiple visual indicators can represent the adjustment of the lighting intensity of the lighting load. For example, when the third button (in area 221a) is actuated to brighten the lighting load, the indicator lights are illuminated in sequence from bottom to top, and when the fourth button (in area 222a) is actuated to dim the lighting load, the indicator lights are extinguished in sequence from top to bottom.

[0064] In one example, multiple visual indicators can represent programming of the characteristics of the lighting load. For example, when entering the programming mode, the switch area 21a (e.g., the first or second button) and the adjustment area 22a (e.g., the third or fourth button) can be pressed simultaneously for a threshold time, at which time, the indicator light can flash to indicate that the programming mode has been entered.

[0065] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the indicating module 23a is disposed at the adjusting region 22a. In other examples, the indicating module 23a may be disposed at another region adjacent to the adjusting region 22a, or at least a portion of the indicating module 23a may be disposed at the adjusting region 22a.

[0066] The control device 2a also includes a controller (not shown) operably coupled to the switch area 21a and the adjustment area 22a, and the controller is configured to determine the amount of time the switch area 21a and the adjustment area 22a are actuated. For example, the controller can detect whether the switch area 21a and the adjustment area 22a are actuated simultaneously via an input circuit (e.g., a key circuit), and determine the duration of the simultaneous actuation to determine whether to enter the programming mode. After entering the programming mode, the controller is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0067] Alternatively, the switch area 21a may include a touch switch, and actuation of the switch area 21a may include touch operations such as staying on the switch area 21a, pressing the switch area 21a, sliding on the switch area 21a, etc. For example, the touch switch may include a touch response device. The first switch area 211a and the second switch area 212a may be located on a touch panel (or different touch panels).

[0068] In one example, touching the first switch area 211a can turn on (or off) the lighting load, and touching the second switch area 212a can turn off (or on) the lighting load. In one example, sliding from the first switch area 211a to the second switch area 212a can turn on (or off) the lighting load, and sliding from the second switch area 212a to the second switch area 211a can turn off (or on) the lighting load. Alternatively, various touch methods can be used to turn on / off the lighting load.

[0069] For example, the control device 2a may enter the programming mode by a combination of touching and pressing a key.

[0070] In one example, when the first switch area 211a is touched and the third button (in area 221a, as marked with "+") is pressed and held for a first threshold time range at the same time, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In one example, when the second switch area 212a is touched and the third button (in area 221a) is pressed and held for a first threshold time range at the same time, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In one example, when the first switch area 211a is touched and the fourth button (in area 222a, as marked with "-") is pressed and held for a first threshold time range at the same time, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In one example, when the second switch area 212a is touched and the fourth button (in area 222a) is pressed and held for a first threshold time range at the same time, the control device 2a enters the programming mode. In these examples, at least some different touch-button combinations may also correspond to different threshold time ranges or different programming combinations, so that the control device 2a enters different programming modes when the touch-button combination is actuated for a threshold time range.

[0071] For example, the controller can detect whether the switch area 21a is actuated via an input circuit (e.g., a touch circuit) and whether the adjustment area 22a is actuated via an input circuit (e.g., a key circuit), and determine the duration of the simultaneous actuation to determine whether to enter the programming mode.

[0072] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3In the embodiment of the present invention, when the switch area 21a is actuated individually for a second threshold time range, the control device 2a may also enter the programming mode. The second threshold time range may be the same as or different from the first threshold time range, for example, entering the same programming mode or a different programming mode. For example, the controller may detect whether the switch area 21a is actuated individually via an input circuit (e.g., a touch circuit or a key circuit), and determine the duration of the actuation to determine whether to enter the programming mode.

[0073] In addition, the control device 2a can exit the programming mode to return to the normal operation mode or enter another programming mode based on a variety of methods, such as not performing any operation within a specified timeout period, or pressing the adjustment area for more than a specified time, etc., which are not limited in this article.

[0074] Compared with the existing technology, Figure 2 and Figure 3 The operation of the control device 2a entering the programming mode is simple and easy to perform, which provides a better user experience and can effectively prevent or reduce the risk of misoperation.

[0075] Figure 4 FIG. 2 shows a front view of another control device 2b for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 The control device 2b can be used, for example, Figure 1 A lighting system 100 or a lighting load 3.

[0076] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the control device 2b includes a panel 20b, a switch area 21b set at the panel 20b, and an adjustment area 22b (as shown by the dotted line). The control device 2b can have a normal operation mode and a programming mode. When the control device 2b is powered on, in the normal operation mode, the switch area 21b is used to trigger the operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load. In the normal operation mode, the adjustment area 22b is used to trigger the operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load. When the control device 2b is powered on, when the switch area 21b and the adjustment area 22b are actuated simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range (for example, 6 seconds), the control device 2b enters the programming mode. In the programming mode, the control device 2b is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics (as described above) of the lighting load.

[0077] Switching area 21b is similar to Figure 2 The switch region 21a and the switch region 21b may have Figure 2 The first switch area 211b (and the first key) similar to the first switch area 211a of Figure 2The second switch area 212b (and the second button) similar to the second switch area 212a will not be described in detail.

[0078] Different from the control device 2a, in Figure 4 and Figure 5 In an embodiment, the switch area 21b and the adjustment area 22b are located on a continuous surface, that is, the two areas 21b, 22b are formed as one body. For example, the switch area 21b and the adjustment area 22b are located on a switch panel, and the switch panel is arranged in a pivotal manner. The adjustment area 22b includes a touch switch, and the adjustment area 22b is actuated to include touch operations such as staying on the adjustment area 22b, pressing the adjustment area 22b, and sliding on the adjustment area 22b. For example, the touch switch may include a touch response device. In one example, sliding along the length direction of the adjustment area 22b (for example, from top to bottom or from bottom to top) can achieve the adjustment of the lighting intensity of the lighting load (for example, increase or decrease). Alternatively, various touch methods can be used to achieve brightening or dimming of the lighting load.

[0079] For example, when the switch area 21b includes a key switch, the control device 2b can enter the programming mode through a key-touch combination.

[0080] In one example, when the first button (in the area 211 b ) and the touch adjustment area 22 b are pressed simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2 b enters the programming mode.

[0081] In one example, when the second button (in area 212b) and the touch adjustment area 22b are pressed simultaneously and continuously for a first threshold time range, the control device 2b enters the programming mode.

[0082] For example, when the switch area 21b includes a touch switch, the control device 2b can be caused to enter the programming mode by a touch-touch combination.

[0083] In one example, when the first switch area 211 b and the touch adjustment area 22 b are touched simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2 b enters the programming mode.

[0084] In one example, when the second switch area 212 b and the touch adjustment area 22 b are touched simultaneously and last for a first threshold time range, the control device 2 b enters the programming mode.

[0085] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5In the embodiment of the control device 2, the control device 2 may further include an indication module 23b disposed at the panel 20b. For example, the indication module 23b may be used to characterize or indicate at least one of the following, including but not limited to: the lighting intensity of the lighting load, the adjustment of the lighting intensity of the lighting load, the programming of the operating characteristics of the lighting load, other working parameters, or other control actions. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiment, the indicator module 23b includes a visual indicator, such as an indicator light bar.

[0086] In one example, the visual indicator may characterize the lighting intensity of the lighting load. For example, the level of the lighting intensity of the lighting load may correspond to the length of the light bar. For example, the length of the light bar may correspond to the level of the lighting intensity.

[0087] In one example, the visual indicator can represent the adjustment of the lighting intensity of the lighting load. For example, when (the user's finger) slides from bottom to top along the adjustment area 22b to brighten the lighting load, the indicator light bar is continuously lit from bottom to top (for example, the indicator light bar corresponding to the area where the finger slides is lit), and when (the user's finger) slides from top to bottom along the adjustment area 22b to dim the lighting load, the indicator light bar is continuously turned off from top to bottom (for example, the indicator light bar corresponding to the area where the finger slides is turned off).

[0088] In one example, the visual indicator may represent the programming of the characteristic of the lighting intensity of the lighting load. For example, when it is necessary to enter the programming mode, the switch area 21b (e.g., the first or second button) and the touch adjustment area 22b may be pressed simultaneously and continued for a threshold time, at which time, the indicator light bar may present a flashing state to indicate that the programming mode has been entered.

[0089] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the indicating module 23b is disposed at the adjusting region 22b. In other examples, the indicating module 23b may be disposed at another region adjacent to the adjusting region 22b, or at least a portion of the indicating module 23b may be disposed at the adjusting region 22b.

[0090] Similarly, the control device 2b also includes a controller (not shown) operably coupled to the switch area 21b and the adjustment area 22b, and the controller is configured to determine the amount of time that the switch area 21b and the adjustment area 22b are actuated. For example, the controller can detect whether the switch area 21b and the adjustment area 22b are actuated simultaneously via an input circuit (e.g., a key circuit / touch circuit), and determine the duration of the simultaneous actuation to determine whether to enter the programming mode, as described above. After entering the programming mode, the controller is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0091] In addition, the control device 2b can exit the programming mode to return to the normal operation mode or enter another programming mode based on a variety of methods, such as not performing any operation within a specified timeout period, or pressing the adjustment area for more than a specified time, etc., which are not limited in this article.

[0092] Compared with the existing technology, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The operation of the control device 2b entering the programming mode is simple and easy to perform, which provides a better user experience and can effectively prevent or reduce the risk of misoperation.

[0093] It should be understood that Figure 2 and Figure 3 The adjustment area 22a in Figure 4 and Figure 5 The adjustment area 22b is implemented and will not be described in detail.

[0094] Figure 6 1 is a simplified block diagram of an exemplary circuit of a lighting system 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The lighting system 200 includes a power source 201, a lighting load 203, and a control device 202 connected between the power source 201 and the lighting load 203. The power source 201 may be, for example, Figure 1 The power supply 1, the control device 202 may be, for example Figure 1 The load control device 2, the lighting load 203 may be, for example Figure 1 of lighting load3.

[0095] exist Figure 6 In the exemplary circuit block diagram, the power supply 201 can be a standard power supply (for example, 220V, 50Hz AC mains power), and the lighting load 203 is connected between the live wire (Hot) and the neutral wire (Neutral) of the power supply 201.

[0096] The control device 202 may include (one or more) control circuits 2021 and a controllable conductive device 2022. The controllable conductive device 2022 is coupled between the power source 201 and the lighting load 203 in a series electrical connection and may control the power delivered from the power source 201 to the lighting load 203.

[0097] The controllable conductive device 2022 may include a suitable type of bidirectional semiconductor switch, such as a bidirectional thyristor, a field effect transistor (FET) in a rectifier bridge, two FETs in anti-series connection, or one or more insulated gate bipolar junction transistors (IGBTs), and similar devices known to those skilled in the art. The controllable conductive switch device 2022 may include an electrical input terminal suitable for coupling to the power supply 201, an electrical output terminal suitable for coupling to the lighting load 203, and a control input terminal suitable for coupling to the control circuit 2021.

[0098] The control circuit 2021 may include one or more of a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any suitable controller or processing device. The control circuit 2021 may be used to make the controllable conductive device 2022 conductive or non-conductive, for example, to control the amount of power delivered to the lighting load 203. The control device 202 may include a drive circuit 2023, and the control circuit 2021 may use control data or signals to drive the drive circuit 2023 to control the controllable conductive device 2022 to adjust the amount of power delivered to the lighting load 203.

[0099] The control device 202 may include a zero-crossing detector 2024 to determine the zero-crossing point information of the input AC power from the power supply 201, and the zero-crossing detector may be various zero-crossing detectors as known to those skilled in the art. The control circuit 2021 may be coupled to the zero-crossing detector 2024 to obtain the zero-crossing point information, and drive the drive circuit 2023 and the controllable conductive device 2022 based on the zero-crossing point information to adjust the illumination and on-off of the lighting load. For example, control data or signals may be generated based on the zero-crossing point information through various phase control techniques (e.g., forward phase control dimming technique or reverse phase control dimming technique, etc.).

[0100] The control device 202 may include a power supply device 2025 for converting AC power into DC voltage to power the control circuit 2021 and other circuits of the control device 202 .

[0101] The control device 202 may include a storage device 2026. The storage device 2026 may be communicatively coupled to the control circuit 2021 for storing and / or retrieving, for example, operating characteristics, settings of operating parameters, such as lighting presets and associated preset lighting intensities, or the like. The storage device 2026 may be implemented as an external integrated circuit or as an internal circuit of the control circuit 2021.

[0102] The control device 202 may include an indication module 2027 for characterizing or indicating at least one of the following, including but not limited to: lighting intensity of the lighting load, adjustment of the lighting intensity of the lighting load, programming of operating characteristics of the lighting load, other operating parameters, other control actions, other status information of the lighting load, or product indication information, etc. The input end of the indication module 2027 may be coupled to the control circuit 2021, and the control circuit 2021 may send a control signal to the indication module 2027 to control the visual display of the indication module.

[0103] The control device 202 may include (one or more) input circuits 2028 to detect user input. For example, the input circuit 2028 may include a key circuit to detect whether a key switch is actuated. For example, the input circuit 2028 may include a touch circuit (e.g., a capacitive, inductive, resistive touch circuit, etc.) to detect whether a touch switch is actuated. The control circuit 2021 may determine to perform a corresponding operation based on the detection result of the input circuit 2028, such as turning on / off the lighting load, adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, causing the control device 202 to enter a programming mode, etc.

[0104] In some examples, the control circuit 2021 may include one or more control circuits for dimming control and programming control, so that the dimming control function and the programming control function are integrated in one controller or distributed in different controllers that communicate with each other.

[0105] The lighting system 200 may further include a safety switch 204, such as an air gap switch, to protect electrical circuits and devices from overload, short circuit, and other faults.

[0106] It should be understood that Figure 6 The circuit block diagram of the lighting system 200 and the load control device 202 is exemplary and not restrictive. The control device 202 may also be implemented using various circuit structures known to those skilled in the art.

[0107] Figure 7 1 is a flowchart showing a method 300 for programming a control device for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 300 may be applicable to, for example, Figure 1 The lighting system 100, the load control device 2, Figure 2-Figure 5 Load control devices 2a, 2b, Figure 6 The method 300 includes steps 310-330.

[0108] The method 300 begins at step 310 by simultaneously actuating a switch region and a regulating region of the control device in a normal operating mode while the control device is powered on.

[0109] Next, the method 300 proceeds to step 320 to determine whether the switch area and the adjustment area are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range (e.g., within a specified time). For example, a timer may be set to determine whether the switch area and the adjustment area are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range at and after the specified time. As previously described, the controller may determine whether the switch area and the adjustment area are simultaneously actuated and the amount of time they are actuated.

[0110] If it is determined at step 320 that the switch zone and the regulating zone are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range ("yes" branch), the method 300 proceeds to step 330. At step 330, the control device is caused to enter a programming mode, in which the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load. As previously described, the controller can be configured to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0111] If it is determined at step 320 that the switch region and the regulating region have not been simultaneously actuated for the first threshold time frame (“NO” branch), the method 300 ends.

[0112] Figure 8 4 is a flowchart showing another method 400 for programming a control device for a lighting load according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 400 may be applicable to, for example, Figure 1 The lighting system 100, the load control device 2, Figure 2-Figure 5 Load control devices 2a, 2b, Figure 6 The method 400 includes steps 410-450.

[0113] The method 400 begins at step 410 by actuating a switch zone in a normal operating mode while the control device is powered on.

[0114] Next, the method 400 proceeds to step 420 to determine whether the adjustment zone is actuated.

[0115] If at step 420 it is determined that the modulation zone is actuated ("yes" branch), the method 400 proceeds to step 430. At step 430, it is determined whether the switch zone and the modulation zone are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range (eg, within a specified time).

[0116] If it is determined at step 430 that the switch zone and the regulating zone are simultaneously actuated for a first threshold time range ("yes" branch), the method 400 proceeds to step 450. At step 450, the control device is caused to enter a programming mode in which the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

[0117] If it is determined at step 430 that the switch region and the regulating region have not been simultaneously actuated for the first threshold time frame (“NO” branch), the method 400 ends.

[0118] If at step 420 it is determined that the adjustment zone is not actuated ("no" branch), the method 400 proceeds to step 440. At step 440, it is determined whether the switch zone is actuated for a second threshold time range (eg, within a specified time).

[0119] If it is determined at step 440 that the switch zone is actuated for the second threshold time range (“yes” branch), the method 400 proceeds to step 450 to cause the control device to enter a programming mode.

[0120] If it is determined at step 440 that the switch region has not been actuated for the second threshold time frame (“NO” branch), method 400 ends.

[0121] according to Figure 7 Method 300 and Figure 8 The method 400 makes the operation of controlling the device to enter the programming mode simple and easy to execute, provides a better user experience, and can effectively prevent or reduce the risk of misoperation.

[0122] Therefore, although the present disclosure is described with reference to specific examples, wherein these specific examples are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting of the present disclosure, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the disclosed embodiments may be changed, added or deleted without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A control device for lighting loads, characterized in that: The control device comprises: panel; A switch area provided at the panel, for triggering an operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load; An adjustment area provided at the panel, for triggering an operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load; Wherein, when the control device is powered on, when the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode, in which the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

2. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The switch area and the adjustment area are formed as one body, the switch area includes a key switch or a touch switch, and the adjustment area includes a touch response device.

3. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The switch area and the adjustment area are spaced apart, the switch area includes a key switch or a touch switch, and the adjustment area includes a key response device or a touch response device.

4. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The switch area includes at least a first switch area and a second switch area, the first switch area is used to trigger an operation of turning on the lighting load, and the second switch area is used to trigger an operation of turning off the lighting load; and When the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode, including: when the first switch area and one of the second switch areas and a part of the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode.

5. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment area includes at least a first adjustment area and a second adjustment area, the first adjustment area is used to trigger an operation of increasing the lighting intensity of the lighting load, and the second adjustment area is used to trigger an operation of reducing the lighting intensity of the lighting load; and When the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode, including: when a part of the switch area and one of the first adjustment area and the second adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode.

6. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control device also includes: The indicating module disposed at the panel is used for at least one of indicating the lighting intensity of the lighting load, adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, or programming the characteristics of the lighting load.

7. The control device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The indicator module includes one visual indicator or a plurality of visual indicators arranged at intervals.

8. The control device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The indicating module is disposed adjacent to the adjusting region or at least a portion of the indicating module is disposed at the adjusting region.

9. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control device enters the programming mode when the switch areas are individually actuated for a second threshold time range.

10. The control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control device also includes a controller operably coupled to the switch region and the adjustment region and configured to determine an amount of time that the switch region and the adjustment region are actuated; and In the programming mode, the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load includes the controller being configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

11. A method of programming a control device for a lighting load, characterized in that The control device includes a switch area for triggering an operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load and an adjustment area for triggering an operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, and the method includes: When the control device is powered on, when the switch area and the adjustment area are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device enters a programming mode, in which the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The control device also includes a controller operably coupled to the switch region and the adjustment region and configured to determine an amount of time that the switch region and the adjustment region are actuated; and In the programming mode, the control device is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load includes the controller being configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

13. A method of programming a control device for a lighting load, characterized in that The control device includes a switch area for triggering an operation of selectively turning on or off the lighting load, an adjustment area for triggering an operation of adjusting the lighting intensity of the lighting load, and a controller operably coupled to the switch area and the adjustment area, and the method includes: The controller determines, when the control device is powered on, whether the switch region and the regulating region are actuated simultaneously; If the controller determines that the switch zone and the regulating zone are actuated simultaneously for a first threshold time range, the control device is caused to enter a programming mode, in which the controller is configured to be able to program one or more operating characteristics of the lighting load.

14. A lighting system, characterized in that: The lighting system comprises: at least one lighting load; A control device for a lighting load according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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