Drive device for one or more LED devices

Abstract

A driving apparatus for one or more LED devices. A power source housed in the housing provides two or more power signals, each provided to a power terminal on the housing. One or more LED interfaces are also located on the housing for connection to one or more LED devices. Each LED interface is connected to an interconnection terminal that is also located on the housing. One or more detachable interconnect components may be used to bridge or connect any of the power terminals in an interconnect mode to control which power signal is passed to the LED interface (s) or whether a power signal is passed to the LED interface (s).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of driving devices, and in particular to a driving device for an LED device. Background Art

[0002] It is common for a driver device having a power supply for one or more LED devices to include a switch on the housing of the driver device to facilitate switching (connecting and disconnecting) the LED device from the power supply or switching the amount of current provided to the LED device. Any such switch has a maximum rated voltage for which they are designed to operate with the lowest risk of disconnection or short circuit. Generally, the larger the rated voltage, the bulkier the switch and the higher the cost. Currently, there are products that use dip switches to adjust the output current, where the dip switches can be placed in a low voltage control loop to adjust the control parameters. If the switch needs to be placed in the power loop so that the LED current passes through the switch, the rated voltage on the switch will be quite high, so a large switch is required to meet safety requirements. Such a large switch is difficult to be placed in the driver device.

[0003] It would therefore be desirable to improve the robustness of a drive device having such switching capabilities at high voltages and to reduce the material cost of any such drive device.

[0004] US20120262076A1 discloses an LED lighting device having a power supply, a control unit, and a light engine with different LED groups. The control unit has a common power supply connected to different LED groups and the power supply, a corresponding return path connected to each LED group, and a corresponding switch element in the control unit that closes or opens the corresponding return path back to the power supply. The switch element is electrically controlled by a controller in the control unit.

[0005] US20120063138A1 discloses a system having nodes carrying power and communication modules, and tracks connecting adjacent nodes and carrying LEDs, power and / or communication channels. Summary of the invention

[0006] The invention is defined by the claims.

[0007] The inventors have recognized that the presence of a switch in a driver device for an LED arrangement may significantly impact the cost and / or design of the driver device. Thus, the current requirement or use of a switch places a significant burden on the amount of circuitry required for the driver device, and may impact the size of the driver device.

[0008] The present disclosure proposes a method to overcome this problem. In particular, in the case where the power circuit of the driver needs to be switched, instead of using an independent switch in the power circuit to select which of multiple power signals is provided to the LED device, a connecting terminal / node and a detachable interconnection element (e.g., a detachable wire) are used in the power circuit to replace the switch. The connecting terminal can easily maintain a distance from the housing of the driving device that meets the safety creepage requirements. The inventors have recognized that in many cases, connecting these terminals to the interconnection element makes it easy for the end user / personnel to easily modify which power signal is provided to the LED device, which is as simple as connecting the output terminal to the LED module. Therefore, a driving device with switching capability can meet safety requirements, alleviate the need for independent switches, and reduce the material and economic costs of the driving device.

[0009] According to an example according to one aspect of the present invention, a drive device having a housing is provided.

[0010] The driving device includes a power supply, which is contained inside a shell and is configured to provide a first power signal and a second power signal; at least one LED interface, which is located on the shell and each LED interface is configured to be connected to a corresponding LED device; at least one interconnection terminal, which is located on the shell and each interconnection terminal is electrically connected to a corresponding LED interface; a first power terminal, which is located on the shell and is connected to the power supply and is configured to receive a first power signal from the power supply; and a different second power terminal, which is located on the shell and is connected to the power supply and is configured to receive a second power signal from the power supply.

[0011] The first power terminal, the second power terminal and each interconnection terminal are maintained at a certain distance from each other on the shell, and are configured to be connected to a detachable interconnection component different from the LED device and when one of the power terminals is connected to a specific interconnection terminal via the detachable interconnection component, the corresponding power signal is allowed to flow to the LED interface connected to the specific interconnection terminal via the connected power terminal and the specific interconnection terminal.

[0012] In other words, the first power terminal and each interconnect terminal in the first group of one or more interconnect terminals can be configured to allow the first power signal to flow from the first power terminal to the connected interconnect terminal when connected via a first detachable interconnect component, wherein the first detachable interconnect component is configured to be detachable from the first power terminal and / or each interconnect terminal in the first group of one or more interconnect terminals.

[0013] Similarly, the second power terminal and each interconnect terminal in the second group of one or more interconnect terminals can be configured to allow a second power signal to flow from the second power terminal to the connected interconnect terminal when connected via a second detachable interconnect component, wherein the second detachable interconnect component is configured to be detachable from the second power terminal and / or each interconnect terminal in the second group of one or more interconnect terminals.

[0014] The proposed method provides a technique for selecting which power supply signal (if there are two or more available LED devices) to provide to one or more LED interfaces (and therefore, one or more connected LED devices) or whether to provide a power supply signal to one or more LED interfaces (and therefore, one or more connected LED devices) without using a separate switch. The power supply output terminals and interconnect terminals meet safety creepage requirements. Therefore, this approach reduces or avoids the use of switches in the drive arrangement, thereby reducing the cost and / or size of the drive equipment and / or avoiding rating restrictions of the switch.

[0015] The embodiments are particularly advantageous when considered in the context of a manufacturing organization. In particular, during a first stage of manufacturing, a single driver device can be manufactured for a variety of different end uses. During a second stage of assembly, depending on the end use, by selectively connecting appropriate terminals via external interconnect components, it can be selected which power signal is provided to each LED interface or whether a power signal is provided to each LED interface. Because during subsequent use, there is little need or only limited scope to modify which LED interfaces are to be driven, the proposed embodiments are particularly useful in this context.

[0016] Optionally, for each power terminal, the distance between the connected power terminal and the specific interconnection terminal is not less than the creepage distance of the voltage corresponding to the power signal provided to the power terminal. Generally, the higher the voltage, the longer the creepage distance. Therefore, the distance between the terminals can be selected according to the actual voltage (for example, the design voltage of the driver device). This improves the safety of the driver device and reduces accidental short circuits or changes in the drive of any LED device connected. The present invention is particularly advantageous in avoiding (voltage) rating limitations of the switch.

[0017] Optionally, for each power terminal, a distance between the power terminal and any interconnection terminal is not less than a creepage distance of a voltage corresponding to a power signal supplied to the power terminal.

[0018] In some examples, the power supply is a non-isolated power supply. The terminals in a non-isolated power supply can be electrically connected to the AC mains input, thereby ensuring that the creepage distance is optimal for such a power supply. This provides a low-cost, high-efficiency power supply for driving any LED devices connected.

[0019] In some examples, one of the interconnection terminals is fixedly attached to the first detachable interconnection member, while the first power terminal and / or the second power terminal are attachably and detachably connected to the first detachable interconnection member.

[0020] In some examples, for at least one interconnect terminal, the interconnect terminal is fixedly attached to a detachable interconnect component that is attachably or detachably connected to the first power terminal and / or the second power terminal.

[0021] In some examples, the first power terminal or the second power terminal is fixedly attached to the second detachable interconnection member, and the interconnection terminal is attachably and detachably connected to the second detachable interconnection member.

[0022] In some examples, a first detachable interconnect component is fixedly attached to a first power terminal and is attachable or detachable to each interconnect terminal in a first set of one or more interconnect terminals; and / or a second detachable interconnect component is fixedly attached to a second power terminal and is attachable or detachable to each interconnect terminal in a second set of one or more interconnect terminals.

[0023] These approaches provide a mechanism for reducing the likelihood of loss of a removable interconnect component, while still providing choice and flexibility for providing a power signal (if any) to one or more LED interfaces.

[0024] In some examples, each of the power terminals and the interconnection terminals is attachably and detachably connected to a third detachable interconnection component. In some examples, neither the power terminals nor the interconnection terminals are fixedly attached to any detachable interconnection component.

[0025] These approaches reduce manufacturing complexity of the driver device, maintaining flexibility in selecting which power supply signal (if any) is provided to one or more LED interfaces.

[0026] In one embodiment for two or more lighting channels, at least one LED interface may include at least two LED interfaces, and at least one interconnect terminal includes at least two interconnect terminals. This approach allows multiple LED devices to be coupled to a driving device, and allows selection of which LED device is to be driven by the driving device, thereby providing a more flexible luminaire.

[0027] The driving device may include a first LED interface, which is configured to be connected to a first LED device; a different second LED interface, which is configured to be connected to a second LED device; a first interconnect terminal, which is electrically connected to the first LED interface; and a second interconnect terminal, which is electrically connected to the second LED interface.

[0028] The first power supply terminal may be adapted to be connected to the first interconnection terminal via a detachable interconnection part, and the second power supply terminal may be adapted to be connected to the second interconnection terminal via another detachable interconnection part.

[0029] Optionally, the first LED arrangement is configured to generate light having at least one characteristic different from a characteristic of the second LED arrangement. For example, the at least one different characteristic may be color and / or color temperature.

[0030] One or both of the first and second interconnection terminals may be adapted to be connected to corresponding power terminals via a detachable interconnection component so as to provide one or both of the first and second power supply signals to a selected LED device or two LED devices among the first and second LED devices, respectively.

[0031] In this embodiment, color tuning / color temperature tuning is achieved.

[0032] Optionally, the first LED arrangement and the second LED arrangement may have the same characteristics. In this embodiment, the driving device is a universal driver for single or dual channels.

[0033] In an alternative embodiment for only one lighting channel, the first power terminal and the second power terminal may each be adapted to be connectable to the interconnection terminal via a detachable interconnection component. The power supply may include a current setting device configured to set a first current for the first power signal and a different second current for the second power signal. A selected one of the first power terminal and the second power terminal may be adapted to be connected to a detachable interconnection component having the interconnection terminal so as to provide a selected one of the first power signal and the second power signal to the LED device.

[0034] This embodiment provides dimming capability to a single lighting channel via terminals and interconnect components.

[0035] More generally, the power supply may include current setting means configured to set a first current for a first power supply signal and a different second current for a second power supply signal. The method allows selection of different currents to be provided to the LED interface and thereby to any connected LED devices. This provides a technique for controlling / reducing the light intensity output by a luminaire including a driver device.

[0036] The above channel selection or dimming provides flexibility for lighting manufacturers: lighting manufacturers can only order the above single model of driver equipment, which can be assembled into different types of lighting with different LED channel configurations, and configure the driver equipment according to the different configurations of LED channels to provide different outputs. This not only reduces the inventory pressure of lighting manufacturers, but also reduces the inventory pressure of driver equipment manufacturers.

[0037] Optionally, the current setting means comprises a series interconnection of current setting resistors; a first power supply terminal is connected in series with a first tap of the series interconnection of current setting resistors; and a second power supply terminal is connected in series with a different second tap of the series interconnection of current setting resistors. This approach provides a simple and inexpensive mechanism for dimming / providing different currents for different power supply signals.

[0038] The terminals (ie, power terminals and / or interconnect terminal(s)) may be wire terminals. Wire terminals provide an inexpensive and efficient mechanism for detachably connecting to an interconnection element.

[0039] There is also provided an LED driver kit, the LED driver kit comprising any driving device described herein; and at least one detachable interconnection component. The detachable interconnection component may be a jumper wire to provide an efficient and low-cost detachable interconnection component.

[0040] An LED luminaire is also provided, comprising the LED driver assembly described previously; and a first LED device comprising one or more light emitting diodes, the first LED device being connected to a first LED interface of at least one LED interface.

[0041] The at least one LED interface may include two or more LED interfaces and further include a different second LED device connected to a different second LED interface of the at least one LED interface.

[0042] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] For a better understanding of the invention and in order to more clearly show how the invention may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0044] Figure 1 illustrates a driving device according to an embodiment;

[0045] Figure 2 The diagram shows the Figure 1 The power supply of the driving equipment;

[0046] Figure 3 illustrates a drive device according to another embodiment; and

[0047] Figure 4 Illustration in realistic form Figure 3 drive equipment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, although indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, system and method, are only for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects and advantages of the apparatus, system and method of the present invention will become better understood based on the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are only schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to represent the same or similar parts.

[0050] The present invention provides a driving device for one or more LED devices. A power supply housed in a housing provides two or more power signals, each of which is provided to a power terminal on the housing. One or more LED interfaces are also located on the housing for connection with one or more LED devices. Each LED interface is connected to an interconnection terminal also located on the housing. One or more detachable interconnection components can be used to bridge or connect any power terminal in an interconnection mode, thereby controlling which power signal is passed to the LED interface (one or more) or whether the power signal is passed to the LED interface (one or more). Creepage requirements are met by using power terminals and interconnection terminals that are decoupled from each other on the driving device itself. No switch is required.

[0051] In the context of the present invention, the term "detachable" means that an element can be attached or detached from another element by a person (with or without a dedicated tool or a specific tool, such as a soldering iron). Thus, the first and second power terminals and each interconnect terminal are located on an external surface of the housing and are configured to be manually connected to an external detachable interconnect component. Preferably, the attachment uses human-level force (e.g., <5N) and does not require breaking or damaging any of these elements.

[0052] Figure 1 A driving device 100 according to an embodiment is schematically illustrated. Figure 1 Also illustrated is an LED luminaire 10 according to an embodiment, which includes a driving device 100 .

[0053] The driving device 100 includes a housing 110 illustrated by a dotted line, which houses or encloses a power supply 120. The power supply is configured to generate or provide at least one power signal, for example, converting an input signal provided from an external power supply 191. The power supply 120 can have a dual-stage configuration (including a PFC stage and a DC-DC stage) or a single stage. The external power supply 191 can be, for example, a mains power supply or an electronic ballast.

[0054] The housing can be formed of any suitable material. In one example, it is an electrically insulating material such as plastic. However, in other examples such as outdoor lighting, the housing can be formed of other materials such as metal or ceramic.

[0055] The driving device 100 further comprises a first LED interface 120. The first LED interface 120 is configured to be connected to a first LED device 192 of an LED illuminator. The first LED interface is located on the housing, for example, exposed outside the driving device. The first LED device may comprise a string of one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0056] In the context of the present invention, an element located on a housing is an element located at a position where the housing exposes or does not cover the element so that it can be touched by a person.

[0057] The illustrated first LED interface 120 includes a first negative LED terminal 121 and a second positive LED terminal 122 between which the first LED device 192 may be connected. The second LED terminal 122 may, for example, be connected to the power source 120 (eg, to provide a path or return path for current).

[0058] The driving device further comprises an interconnection interface located on the housing. For each LED interface 120, the interconnection interface comprises an interconnection terminal 130, for example, at least one first interconnection terminal 130. Each interconnection terminal 130 is connected to its corresponding LED interface 120 within the driving device, as illustrated by the solid lines.

[0059] The driving device 100 further includes a first power terminal 141 and a second power terminal 142, both of which are located on the housing 110. The first power terminal 141 and the second power terminal 142 are both connected to the power supply 120 and are configured to receive corresponding power signals from the power supply 120. Therefore, the first power terminal 141 receives a first power signal S1 from the power supply 120, and the second power terminal 142 receives a second power signal S2 from the power supply 120.

[0060] The first power terminal 141 and the second power terminal 142 may be considered to form a part of the power output interface 140 .

[0061] The interconnect terminal 130 and the first power terminal 141 are configured such that the first detachable interconnect component 151 can form a first channel or current path between the first power terminal 141 and one of the interconnect terminals (one or more) 130 of the interconnect interface. In this example, the interconnect interface 130 includes a single terminal such that the first detachable interconnect component can form a first channel between the first power terminal 141 and the first interconnect terminal 130.

[0062] When the first channel is formed, the first power signal is permitted to flow from the first power terminal 141 to the connected first interconnect terminal 130 (and thus to any LED device 192 connected to the first LED interface 120). Therefore, current can flow through the LED device 192 connected to the first LED interface 120.

[0063] The interconnection terminal 130 and the second power supply terminal 142 are configured so that the second detachable interconnection component 152 can form a second channel between the second power supply terminal 142 and one of the interconnection terminals (one or more) 130 of the interconnection interface. In this example, the interconnection interface 130 includes a single terminal so that the second detachable interconnection component can form a second channel between the second power supply terminal 142 and the first interconnection terminal 130.

[0064] When the second channel is formed, the second power signal is permitted / allowed to flow from the second power terminal to the connected first interconnect terminal 130 (and thus to any connected LED devices 130 ).

[0065] According to an embodiment, the driving device and the detachable interconnection element(s) together provide an LED driver kit.

[0066] The first detachable interconnection part 151 is configured to be detachable from the first power terminal 141 and / or the first interconnection terminal 130. Likewise, the second detachable interconnection part 152 is configured to be physically detachable from the second power terminal 142 and / or the first interconnection terminal 130.

[0067] In some examples, the / each detachable interconnect member is fixedly secured to one of the power terminals or the first interconnect terminal, but is detachable from the other of the one of the power terminals and the first interconnect terminal.

[0068] If fixedly fastened to the first interconnect terminal, the first detachable interconnect component and the second detachable interconnect component can be the same detachable interconnect component. This reduces the number of required components. However, in other examples, the first detachable interconnect component and the second detachable interconnect component can be different detachable interconnect components that are both fixedly attached to the first interconnect terminal.

[0069] If fixedly fastened to one of the power terminals, the first detachable interconnect part and the second detachable interconnect part are different detachable interconnect parts. Therefore, in such an example, the first detachable interconnect part is fixedly fastened to the first power terminal, and the second detachable interconnect part is fixedly fastened to the second power terminal.

[0070] In other examples, the / each detachable interconnection component is detachable from the power terminal(s) and the first interconnection terminal. Thus, each detachable interconnection component can be completely removed from the rest of the drive device. In some examples, there may be only a single detachable interconnection component that can be selectively connected between the first power terminal and the first interconnection pattern or between the second power terminal and the first interconnection terminal.

[0071] Suitable examples of detachable interconnect components include jumpers.

[0072] It should be noted that Figure 1 The schematic diagram of FIG. 1 illustrates a potential detachable interconnect component 152 (e.g., a wire) flying across the power terminal 141. This is only a logical schematic diagram showing the electrical connection between the terminals. In an actual product, the interconnect terminal 130 can be placed between the terminal 141 and the terminal 142, so that the wire connecting the interface terminal 130 and one power terminal does not pass over the other power terminal.

[0073] In other embodiments, the terminal 130 can be divided into two separate terminals or sub-terminals, which are connected together in the driving device (e.g., in the housing 110), and each terminal is close to / approaches a different power terminal for wire connection without flying across any other terminal. This approach is also applicable to the following reference Figure 3 Drive equipment as described.

[0074] Continue to refer Figure 1Preferably, for the illustrated scenario where the driving device includes a single LED interface 120, the first power signal S1 and the second power signal S2 have different electrical characteristics, such as different voltages, different currents, and / or different powers. This facilitates a mechanism for changing and controlling the power provided to the first LED device 192 using a detachable interconnection component (one or more).

[0075] However, this is not essential. For example, the first power signal and the second power signal may have the same (or approximately the same) electrical characteristics. This may be used for redundancy purposes, for example, if there is a problem with the connection between the power supply and one of the power terminals 141, 142.

[0076] In some embodiments, the drive device 100 may further include a ground terminal 160 located on the housing, which is connected to the ground or a reference voltage. The ground terminal may be connected to the first power terminal 131 or the second power terminal 132, for example, via a detachable interconnection component. This approach may avoid / prevent the power terminal (one or more) from being exposed, thereby improving the safety of the drive device.

[0077] Preferably, for each power terminal, the distance between the power terminal and any interconnected terminal is not less than the creepage distance of the voltage corresponding to the power signal provided to the power terminal. The corresponding creepage distance is the distance along which a signal with a specific voltage can migrate (for example, within a known safety margin). Approaches for determining creepage distances are well known in the art. Examples are set forth in the IEC60601-1 standard and can be used in the present invention. In actual products, a distance of a few millimeters between terminals is sufficient and is easily achieved; while providing a creepage distance of a few millimeters via a separate switch is not easy and requires a switch with a much larger overall size / footprint.

[0078] Figure 2 The diagram shows the Figure 1 The power supply 200 of the previously described driving device is configured to generate two power supply signals S1, S2 having different electrical characteristics. Therefore, each power supply signal effectively has a different setting for powering the LED device.

[0079] The power supply 200 is a non-isolated power supply.

[0080] The power supply 200 includes a power rectifying inductor L1 , an output capacitor C1 , and a rectifying diode D1 for generating a DC signal, for example, across the capacitor C1 . Figure 2 The power supply 200 in the embodiment may be a buck-boost type or other types.

[0081] The power supply 200 further comprises first current setting means R1, R2 configured to set a first current for a first power supply signal S1 provided to the LED interface when a corresponding interconnect terminal for the LED interface is coupled to the first power supply terminal 141 (via the detachable interconnect component).

[0082] The power supply 200 also includes a second current setting device R1. The second current setting device is configured to be coupled to the second interconnect interface and is configured to set a different second current for a second power signal, which is provided to the LED interface when the corresponding interconnect terminal for the LED interface is coupled to the second power terminal 141 (via the detachable interconnect component).

[0083] As shown in the figure, the first current setting device and the second current setting device can be combined into a combined current setting device R1, R2. The combined current setting device can include a series connection of current setting resistors R1, R2.

[0084] The first power supply terminal 141 can be connected in series with a first tap in the series interconnection of current setting resistors. The second power supply terminal 142 can be connected in series with a different second tap in the series interconnection of current setting resistors. Effectively, the current set by the series resistors is less than the current set by a single resistor.

[0085] Figure 3 FIG. 3 shows a driving device 300 according to another embodiment. As mentioned above, Figure 3 Also illustrated is an LED luminaire 30 according to the embodiment, which includes a driving device 100 .

[0086] The drive device 300 and Figure 1 The driving device 300 is different in that it also includes a second LED interface 320 located on the housing 110 , and the driving device 300 includes a first interconnection terminal 331 and a different second interconnection terminal 332 .

[0087] The first interconnection terminal 331 and the second interconnection terminal 332 may also be considered to form together the interconnection interface 330 .

[0088] Each interconnection terminal 331 , 332 is electrically connected to a corresponding different LED interface 120 , 320 . Thus, the first interconnection terminal 331 is electrically connected to the first LED interface 120 , while the second interconnection terminal 332 is electrically connected to the second LED interface 320 .

[0089] The second LED interface includes a third LED terminal 321 and a fourth LED terminal 122, between which the second LED device 193 of the LED illuminator 10 can be connected. As shown, the fourth LED terminal 122 can be the same as the second LED terminal. Alternatively, the fourth LED terminal can be an S terminal that is also connected to the power supply. H In any case, the fourth LED terminal can be connected to the power source 120 (eg, to provide a path or return path for current).

[0090] Each power terminal 141, 142 is configured to be connectable to one of the two interconnection terminals 331, 332 (via detachable interconnection parts 151, 152), respectively. Likewise, each interconnection terminal is configured to be connectable to one power terminal (via detachable interconnection parts 151, 152). Preferably, each interconnection terminal can only be connected to a single power terminal at a time.

[0091] In this way, it is possible to select which one or both of the two LED interfaces to provide power signals from the power supply. This increases the flexibility for selecting which power signals are used to power or drive any LED device connected to any of the LED interfaces.

[0092] In some examples, each power terminal 141, 142 can be connected to any of the interconnection terminals 331, 331 (of the interconnection interface 330). In this way, different power signals can be provided to different interconnection terminals, and thus to different LED interfaces (and therefore to different LED devices). Different power signals here do not necessarily mean that the amplitude of the power signals is different, but rather that the power loops of the two interfaces are different.

[0093] Figure 4 The drive device is shown in a realistic standard form, wherein the connection between the terminal 321 and the terminal 332 and the connection between the terminal 121 and the terminal 331 are inside the housing 110 of the drive device and are not shown for the sake of simplicity.

[0094] This approach provides a mechanism for controlling the electrical characteristics of the power signal driving the LED device(s).This approach is also always used to select which interconnect terminals are provided with the power signal, and therefore which LED interfaces are driven by the power signal.

[0095] For example, if the power supply signal has different current amplitudes, the amplitude of the light output by each LED device connected to the LED interface can be controlled or selected.

[0096] As previously explained, the first power supply signal and the second power supply signal may have different electrical characteristics, such as different voltages, different currents, and / or different powers.

[0097] In some examples, the driver device can be configured so that at least one of the power terminals can only be connected to a subset of the interconnect terminals (i.e., not all). This constrains which LED interfaces can be driven by a particular power signal (e.g., if different power signals are provided to the power terminals). This can prevent, for example, certain LED interfaces from being powered by a potentially dangerous power signal (e.g., overcurrent or overvoltage).

[0098] In some examples, each power terminal can only be connected to a single interconnect terminal (via a corresponding detachable interconnect component). This approach reduces the variation of incorrect attachments between different power terminals and interconnect terminals, and is particularly advantageous when each power signal is designed for a specific LED device or load.

[0099] Each detachable interconnection part is configured to be detachable from at least one power terminal 141 , 142 and / or at least one interconnection terminal 331 , 332 .

[0100] In some examples, the / each detachable interconnect part is fixedly secured to one of the power terminals or one of the interconnect terminals, but is detachable from:

[0101] If fastened to one of the power terminals, at least one interconnection terminal is detachable; or, if fastened to one of the interconnection terminals, at least one power terminal is detachable.

[0102] In other examples, the / each detachable interconnection component is detachable from a set of one or more power terminals and a set of one or more interconnection terminals. Thus, each detachable interconnection component can be completely removed from the rest of the drive device.

[0103] More than one detachable interconnect component can be coupled to a single power terminal at the same time. This allows the same power signal to be provided to different interconnect terminals and thus to different LED interfaces.

[0104] The first LED device 192 can be configured to generate light having at least one characteristic that is different from a characteristic of the second LED device 193. For example, the at least one different characteristic can be color and / or color temperature.

[0105] This approach allows controlling the mix of colors or color temperatures output by the LED luminaire. This approach is particularly advantageous when any of the power supply terminals can be connected to any of the interconnection terminals via a respective detachable interconnection part, as it allows selecting a variety of different mixes of colors or color temperatures.

[0106] Table 1 illustrates a scenario in which a group of one or more "warm" LEDs (e.g., having a color temperature of 2700K) is connected to the first LED interface 120 and a group of one or more "cold" LEDs (e.g., having a color temperature of, for example, 6500K) is connected to the second LED interface 320. In this scenario, it is assumed that the current amplitudes of the two power supply signals provided at S1 and S2 are the same. The mixed color temperature may be 4100K.

[0107]

[0108] Table 1

[0109] As for the use Figure 3 To drive the power supply of the device, a dual-channel driver with a single positive output and two corresponding negative outputs can be used, where the single positive output is connected to S H , and the two corresponding negative outputs can be connected to S1 and S2 respectively.

[0110] Other variations on the power supply will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0111] The proposed embodiment is particularly advantageous when the voltage of the supply signal / each supply signal is greater than 24 or 36. High voltages prevent the use of a large number of switches due to their limited voltage ratings. The present approach uses detachable interconnect components, thereby avoiding the rating limitations of the switches while maintaining compact dimensions.

[0112] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other variations of the described drive device may include more than two output power terminals. Thus, the output power interface may include more than two output power terminals. Each output power terminal is connected to a power source and is configured to receive a power signal (preferably, a different power signal) therefrom. Each power signal provided to the more than two output power terminals may have one or more electrical characteristics that are different from any other power signal.

[0113] This approach increases flexibility and choice in selecting the electrical characteristics of the power supply signal that drives any LED arrangement connected to the driving device.

[0114] It should be understood that each power terminal may be associated with a set of one or more interconnection terminals. In particular, each power terminal may be configured to allow a power signal received at the power terminal to flow from the power terminal to the connected interconnection terminal when connected to one of the associated set of one or more interconnection terminals via a specific detachable interconnection component. The specific detachable interconnection component is configured to be detachable from the power terminal and / or each interconnection terminal in the associated set of one or more interconnection terminals.

[0115] For each power supply terminal, the associated set of one or more interconnect terminals may include all interconnect terminals. Alternatively, the associated set of one or more interconnect terminals may include a subset (ie, not all) of the interconnect terminals, for example, a single interconnect terminal.

[0116] Likewise, it should be understood that some variations of the described driver device may include more than two LED interfaces, for example, for more than two LED devices. This approach provides additional functionality and connectivity for the driver device. Each LED interface is electrically connected to a different interconnect terminal, so that the driver device further includes more than two interconnect terminals.

[0117] In any of the above embodiments, one or more terminals of any interface may include wire terminals. Wire terminals are terminals or terminals that are capable of removably receiving wires or jumpers (eg, removable interconnect components), such as using a clamping mechanism or the like.

[0118] A LED driver kit is also proposed, the LED driver kit comprising any driver device described herein; and at least one detachable interconnect component. The detachable interconnect component may be a jumper wire.

[0119] By studying the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality.

[0120] The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0121] If the term "suitable for" is used in the claims or the specification, it should be noted that the term "suitable for" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". If the term "device" is used in the claims or the specification, it should be noted that the term "device" is intended to be equivalent to the term "system" and vice versa.

[0122] Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A drive device (100, 300) having a housing (110), comprising: A power supply (120), contained within the housing and configured to provide a first power signal (S1) and a second power signal (S2); at least one LED interface (120, 320), the at least one LED interface being located on the housing, each LED interface being configured to be connected to a corresponding LED device (192, 193); at least one interconnection terminal (130, 331, 332), the at least one interconnection terminal being located on the housing, each interconnection terminal being electrically connected to a corresponding LED interface, a first power terminal (141), the first power terminal being located on the housing and connected to the power source and configured to receive the first power signal from the power source; a different second power terminal (142) located on the housing and connected to the power source and configured to receive the second power signal from the power source; in: The first power terminal, the second power terminal and each interconnection terminal are kept at a certain distance from each other on the shell, and are configured to be operated outside the driving device to be connected to an external detachable interconnection component different from the LED device (192, 193), and when one of the power terminals is connected to a specific interconnection terminal via the detachable interconnection component, the corresponding power signal is allowed to flow to the LED interface connected to the specific interconnection terminal via the connected power terminal and the specific interconnection terminal.

2. The driving device according to claim 1, wherein: For each power terminal, a distance between the connected power terminal and the specific interconnection terminal is not less than a creepage distance corresponding to a voltage of the power signal supplied to the power terminal, and The first power terminal and the second power terminal and each interconnect terminal are located on an exterior surface of the housing and are configured to be manually connected to the external detachable interconnect component.

3. The driving device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the power supply is a non-isolated power supply.

4. A driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one of the interconnection terminals is fixedly attached to a first detachable interconnection component, and the first power terminal and / or the second power terminal can be attached and detachably connected to the first detachable interconnection component.

5. The drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The first power terminal or the second power terminal is fixedly attached to a second detachable interconnection part, and the interconnection terminal can be attachably and detachably connected to the second detachable interconnection part. 6 . The driving device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the power terminal and the interconnection terminal can be attachably and detachably connected to a third detachable interconnection part.

7. The driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: a first LED interface configured to connect to a first LED device; a second, different LED interface configured to connect to a second LED device; a first interconnect terminal electrically connected to the first LED interface; as well as a second interconnection terminal, the second interconnection terminal being electrically connected to the second LED interface, The first power terminal is adapted to be connectable to the first interconnection terminal via a detachable interconnection component, and the second power terminal is adapted to be connectable to the second interconnection terminal via another detachable interconnection component.

8. A driving device according to claim 7, wherein the first LED arrangement is configured to generate light having at least one characteristic different from a characteristic of the second LED arrangement, preferably wherein the different at least one characteristic is color and / or color temperature; and One or both of the first interconnection terminal and the second interconnection terminal are suitable for being connected to corresponding power terminals via a detachable interconnection component so as to provide one or both of the first power supply signal and the second power supply signal to a selected one or two LED devices among the first LED device and the second LED device, respectively.

9. A drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first power supply terminal and the second power supply terminal are adapted to be connectable to the interconnection terminal via a detachable interconnection part, The power supply comprises a current setting device configured to set a first current for the first power supply signal (S1) and a different second current for the second power supply signal (S2), and A selected one of the first power terminal and the second power terminal is adapted to be connected to a detachable interconnection component having the interconnection terminal so as to provide a selected one of the first power signal and the second power signal to the LED device.

10. The driving device according to claim 9, wherein The current setting means comprises a series interconnection of current setting resistors (R1, R2); the first power supply terminal being connected in series with a first tap in the series interconnection of the current setting resistors; and The second power supply terminal is connected in series with a second, different tap in the series interconnection of the current setting resistors.

11. The driving device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the terminal is a wire terminal.

12. An LED driver kit, comprising: A drive device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; as well as At least one detachable interconnection component.

13. The LED driver kit of claim 12, wherein the detachable interconnect component is a jumper wire.

14. An LED illuminator (10, 30), comprising: The LED driver kit according to any one of claims 12 to 13; as well as A first LED device, the first LED device including one or more light emitting diodes, is connected to a first LED interface of the at least one LED interface.

15. The LED luminaire of claim 14, wherein the at least one LED interface comprises two or more LED interfaces, and further comprises a different second LED device connected to a different second LED interface of the at least one LED interface.

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