Driver device for illumination source

Abstract

A driver apparatus for an illumination source includes an output node for connecting an illumination source to be driven and a controller having memory circuitry configured to store therein a plurality of sets of driver configuration data. The apparatus is configured to drive the illumination source in one of a plurality of different drive modes in response to selecting a corresponding set of driver configuration data. The apparatus includes load detection circuitry configured to be coupled to the output nodes so as to generate a load detection signal indicative of a number of output nodes to which the illumination source is connected. The apparatus can be self-configured by automatically selecting the aforementioned respective set of driver configuration data based on a load detection signal indicative of the number of output nodes to which the illumination source is connected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to lighting systems.

[0002] One or more implementations can be used, for example, in driver devices that are programmable using a multi-output DALI interface (e.g., for so-called electronic control devices or ECGs). Background Technology

[0003] The term DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) indicates a bidirectional communication protocol that can be used to control components and communicate between components in a lighting system.

[0004] DALI is a communication protocol designed for programming and exchanging information between lighting-related devices, and can be used not only for ECG in the strict sense, but also for associated devices such as sensors, buttons, dimmers, etc.

[0005] The DALI protocol forms the basis of the international standard IEC 62386 and all its sub-parts (-1xx, -2xx, -3xx).

[0006] Once connected to a DALI network, a component can be addressed using a "short address" assigned to it, which is unique for a given device in a given network.

[0007] The identifier for Device Type (DT) identifies a specific set of characteristics provided by the connected device. As for ECG, each DT forms the subject of a subsection of the IEC 62386-2xx specification.

[0008] For example, regarding ECG:

[0009] The DT-6 LED ECG uses a single DALI short address to control a single output, for example, to change the luminous level of a set of connected LEDs; the same ECG can have multiple outputs: in this case, a short address is provided for each output (DT-6 multi-device).

[0010] Alternatively, the DT-8 LED ECG can use a single DALI short address to control two or more outputs: in the case of the DT-8 identifier, multiple parameters (such as the device's color temperature and brightness) can be controlled via a single channel.

[0011] The DT-8 identifier is primarily designed for multi-color LED sources, with up to six different colors, each identified by a single letter: for example, "RGBWAF" is the largest complete set of color channels, including red, green, blue, white, amber, and "free" (i.e., not assigned to any particular color).

[0012] Before being used in a system network, a DALI device typically needs to be configured. This is especially true for devices with multiple outputs, and even more so for DT-8 devices for which multiple parameters are intended to be set.

[0013] When ECG is expected to support different configurations, it is desirable to be able to program at least the number of physically available output channels.

[0014] The configuration (i.e., setup) of the DALI device can be programmed through the independent hardware user interface or external software tools.

[0015] Hardware tools may include:

[0016] A toggle switch type switch;

[0017] Rotary switches or encoders; and

[0018] A local display with buttons or similar interactive interfaces.

[0019] Hardware tools have various drawbacks. For example, each DALI device they create involves additional costs and takes up space in the device (which may be unusable); furthermore, they involve managing firmware and additional resources and may prove inconvenient to the point that once installed in the end-use location, the DALI device may prove difficult to access.

[0020] The software tool can be installed on a host PC or similar device (mobile phone, tablet) and may include:

[0021] DALI interface applications use DALI communication itself to program configuration settings: In order to configure the device, these applications can use special DALI modes and / or DALI-specific hardware interfaces.

[0022] Software that allows other communication channels to be used with DALI devices is either wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC) or wired (e.g., 4-pin or single-wire TTL interface).

[0023] Each manufacturer typically employs its own strategy, providing users with specific configuration tools. Given the lack of interoperability between software tools from different manufacturers, and the impossibility of using the interface itself, users find themselves having to equip (and often purchase) different tools for each specific manufacturer or for successive generations of products.

[0024] For example, products from Tridonic offer configuration tools called DeviceConfigurator and 4service NFC, while products manufactured by Signify use the configuration tool MultiOne.

[0025] For OSRAM-Inventronics products, the configuration software Tuner4TRONIC (T4T) is available, which can connect to the DALI device via a specific DALI interface (and thus via a USB-connected DALImagic) or via an NFC port (if this is available in the DALI device).

[0026] However, there are older OSRAM-Inventronics products that use different, non-DALI-compatible interfaces, as well as software called MultiProgrammer.

[0027] In addition to having to purchase these tools, end users also have to learn how to use them, which can prove quite complex and thus cause problems for users.

[0028] Documents US 2018 / 116025 A1, US 2012 / 187845 A1, and US 11 849 517 B1 are examples of related technologies. Utility Model Content

[0029] This utility model discloses a driver device for a lighting source, the driver device comprising: a plurality of output nodes connectable to a lighting source to be driven by the plurality of output nodes; a controller including a data storage circuit system configured to store a plurality of sets of driver configuration data, wherein the driver device is configured to drive the lighting source in one of a plurality of different driving modes in response to selecting a corresponding set of driver configuration data from the plurality of sets of driver configuration data; and a load detection circuit system configured to be coupled to the output nodes of the plurality of output nodes to generate a load detection signal indicating the number of output nodes to which the lighting source is connected, wherein the controller is configured to automatically select a corresponding set of driver configuration data based on the load detection signal indicating the number of output nodes to which the lighting source is connected.

[0030] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source includes a plurality of electronic switches coupled to a corresponding output node of a plurality of output nodes, the plurality of electronic switches being configured to alternately conduct electricity and non-conduct electricity, wherein, in response to a corresponding electronic switch of the plurality of electronic switches conducting electricity, current flows through the lighting source which is connected to any one of the plurality of output nodes.

[0031] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source includes a load detection circuit system comprising: a signal generator configured to be coupled to an output node among a plurality of output nodes to apply a detection signal to the output node; and a comparator configured to be coupled to an output node among the plurality of output nodes to perform a comparison of a load detection sensing signal received from the plurality of output nodes in response to the application of the detection signal to the output node with a detection threshold, wherein the result of the comparison indicates that the lighting source is connected to an output node among the plurality of output nodes.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in a driver device for a lighting source, a signal generator in a load detection circuit system is configured to be coupled to an output node among a plurality of output nodes via a plurality of electronic switches.

[0033] A driver device for a lighting source according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a load measurement circuit system configured to be coupled to an output node among a plurality of output nodes to generate a load measurement signal indicating the magnitude of the load provided by the lighting source connected to the output node among the plurality of output nodes, wherein a controller is configured to automatically select a corresponding set of driver configuration data based on the load measurement signal.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source is provided, wherein the controller is configured to activate the diagnostic features of the lighting source to which one of a plurality of output nodes is connected, based on a load measurement signal.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source has a load measurement circuit system configured to be coupled to an output node among a plurality of output nodes to generate a load measurement signal via a plurality of electronic switches.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source is configured to receive a configuration command generated by a user, and in response to the configuration command generated by the user, drive the lighting source in at least one alternative driving mode that replaces a variety of different driving modes.

[0037] According to embodiments of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source includes various driving modes, including DALI device type 8 DT-8 driving mode.

[0038] According to embodiments of the present invention, a driver device for a lighting source includes at least one alternative driving mode, comprising the DALI device type 6DT-6 driving mode.

[0039] One or more implementations are intended to help overcome the disadvantages previously outlined.

[0040] According to one or more embodiments, the above-mentioned objective is achieved by an apparatus having the characteristics described in the appended claims.

[0041] One or more implementation methods relate to corresponding methods.

[0042] One or more embodiments relate to a corresponding permanent computer program product that can be loaded into the memory of a processing circuit and includes software code that, when run on the circuit described herein, enables the implementation of the methods described herein.

[0043] Therefore, one or more embodiments contemplate the use of a computer program product that can be loaded into the memory of at least one processing circuit (e.g., a microcontroller) and includes portions of software code for performing steps of the method when the product is run on at least one processing circuit. As used herein, references to such a computer program product are understood to be equivalent to references to a microcontroller-readable medium that permanently contains instructions for controlling the processing system to coordinate the implementation of the method according to one or more embodiments.

[0044] One or more implementations can facilitate the tasks of the installer and user, thereby enabling the skipping of manual configuration of DALI devices, such as ECGs with multiple output channels.

[0045] Solutions like the one described in this paper enable a self-configuration mechanism in the ECG (for example, a DALI device) that allows the device to be automatically (self-)configured for the most common use cases.

[0046] Solutions like those described in this paper can also operate in multimodal devices. For example, in the case of a DT-6 / DT-8 ECG, a simple manual selection between the DT-6 and DT-8 can be achieved while a specific configuration is completed automatically.

[0047] Solutions like those described in this article can be applied to both constant current ECGs and constant voltage ECGs, and have particular advantages when the ECG has more than two output channels.

[0048] Solutions like the one described in this article are based on a load sensing mechanism that can detect the presence of a load connected to a specific output channel.

[0049] For example, the device can detect that an output channel is connected to a load, and can also detect (measure) the magnitude of the load, so as to automatically detect how many outputs in a device with multiple channels (i.e., multiple outputs) connect a load (such as a lighting source) to them.

[0050] Advantageously, the self-configuration can also be intervened via software tools by accessing the ECG through the DALI port itself or through some other wireless or wired communication port (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, IR, NFC, etc.). For example, the T4T tool itself (as previously cited) can access the ECG and rewrite the self-programming code previously included therein.

[0051] Solutions like the one described in this article enable off-the-shelf solutions for most common use cases via self-configurable products. This helps save time and money by avoiding the installation of software tools and the purchase of specific interfaces that can only be used to configure devices from a particular manufacturer (e.g., ECG).

[0052] Furthermore, installers / users can avoid having to learn how to set up a device, which may prove to be far from being understood in the final analysis. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Now, one or more embodiments will be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0054] Figure 1 Examples of possible implementations of devices like those described herein; and

[0055] Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the possible operating modes permitted for a device like the one described herein.

[0056] It should be understood that, unless the context otherwise indicates, similar parts or elements are designated by the same reference numerals in the various figures.

[0057] Therefore, for the sake of brevity and simplicity, detailed descriptions of such parts or elements will not be repeated for each figure.

[0058] Furthermore, for the sake of brevity and simplicity, the same reference numeral may be used in this specification to denote both a node or line and a signal present on that particular node or line. Detailed Implementation

[0059] In the following description, various specific details are set forth to enable a thorough understanding of various examples of embodiments according to this disclosure. Embodiments may be obtained without one or more of the specific details or using other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, known structures, materials, or operations have not been detailed or described so that significant aspects of the embodiments will not be obscured.

[0060] References to “implementation” or “one implementation” within the framework of this specification are intended to indicate that a particular configuration, structure, or feature described for an implementation is included in at least one implementation. Phrases that may appear at various points in this specification (such as “in an implementation” or “in one implementation”) do not necessarily refer entirely to the same implementation.

[0061] The reference numerals used in this document are provided for convenience only and therefore do not limit the scope of protection or the scope of implementation.

[0062] To summarize the contents stated at the beginning of this specification, the abbreviations DT-6 and DT-8 are essentially based on a set of characteristics that ECG is expected to provide to identify the categories of devices defined by the DALI specification.

[0063] The manufacturer checks / guarantees that the device (for simplicity, ECG is specifically referred to here as an example) conforms to the declared DTxx identifier.

[0064] For example, in the case of DT-6 identifiers, a short address is assigned to each individual channel, and therefore, in an ECG with multiple channels, DT-6 requires each channel to have a short address, while for DT-8, a single short address is assigned to multiple channels. More precisely, logical units are used, and each logical unit has an address.

[0065] Again, for the purpose of illustrating the relevant technology, the term Tuner4TRONIC (T4T) refers to software that can be used in OSRAM / Inventronics products to communicate using the DALI protocol via external hardware (called DALI Magic) connected to the ECG of the DALI line and USB port, or via an NFC peripheral device that is connected to the processing system in some way.

[0066] In the case of DT-6, the installer / user does not actually need to decide any operating mode: each channel has its own short address (channel self-configuration). The ECG's operating mode is already defined, and no specific instructions from the installer are required, except regarding the number of channels.

[0067] For the DT-6 multichannel device, an automatic detection mode can be used in this regard.

[0068] In reality, there are various operating modes, but in most cases, the selected predefined configuration is correct (regardless of the number of channels) and does not need to be modified.

[0069] On the other hand, there are external devices that can affect the operating mode, such as by pressing a button to enter an operating mode called Touch DIM (we should return to that topic later).

[0070] In the case of DT-8, there are various possible and different operating modes of ECG, as long as more than one channel corresponds to a single address, making it necessary for the installer / user to select / configure the operating mode.

[0071] Solutions like the one described in this article help identify one or more loads connected to the ECG and the automatic setting (self-configuration) of the operating mode.

[0072] For example, a storage bank containing registers for DALI configuration can be used in this regard.

[0073] In solutions like the one described in this paper, these memories are typically predefined during production and do not necessarily require any application- or hardware-level intervention from the installer / user. For completeness, it should be noted that, on the other hand, there are various other registers configured to control the behavior of the ECG: given the potential differences in the modes of accessing these registers, these registers do not exhibit particular importance for the purpose of achieving a solution like the one described in this paper.

[0074] In solutions like the one described in this paper, it is conceivable that during the setup process, the device (ECG) will "understand" whether it must implement load diagnostic features during runtime, or whether the connected load is unsuitable for the ECG.

[0075] Solutions like the one described in this article are helpful for production units (such as the DT-8 ECG) that can be so self-configurable and, if the installer / user needs or expects, can switch from (self-configurable) DT-8 mode to DT-6 mode.

[0076] Additional devices (such as touch DIM devices, sensors, etc.) can be added to the auxiliary input. In fact, the DT-8ECG can be self-configured to recognize such additional devices.

[0077] As already noted, automatic self-configuration (e.g., DT-8) is not a necessary option, as long as the installer / user retains the ability to do so in a non-automatic manner.

[0078] Similarly, if other devices are connected, these devices are identified, and the ability to self-configure, taking these devices into account, can be practiced again.

[0079] Finally, it should be noted that, in general, no particular emphasis is placed on the specific modalities of the device configuration or implementation in describing the various solutions proposed in this paper: these are aspects that depend on the nature of the device and can be considered to be known from specifications (e.g., DALI).

[0080] In describing the various solutions proposed in this paper, attention will instead be focused on enabling the device to perform configuration in an automatic, self-configuring manner, while retaining the possibility of defining the configuration in a conventional manner under the control of the operator.

[0081] Figure 1 A possible circuit diagram of device 10 is illustrated by way of example (hereinafter, for simplicity, reference will always be made to ECG), which can be configured to behave differently based on the amount of load detected.

[0082] By way of examples Figure 1 Refers to a four-channel DT-8 ECG, that is, an ECG with four loads L1, L2, L3 and L4, which are connected to the reference ground GND voltage Voutput and driven via corresponding electronic switches M1, M2, M3 and M4 (such as MOSFETs under the control of the processing unit (controller) 12).

[0083] For example, and according to standards known to those skilled in the art, device 10 is a driver device (ECG) for a lighting source, which includes a plurality of output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4, which are candidates for connecting lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4 to be driven.

[0084] The term "candidate" emphasizes the fact that even if nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 are configurable for this purpose, they do not necessarily have to connect the corresponding lighting sources L1, L2, L3, and L4 to them. As will be seen again below, the ECG 10 presented herein by way of example is a driver device capable of self-configuring based on the number of nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 to which loads L1, L2, L3, or L4 (e.g., lighting sources) are actually connected.

[0085] As exemplified herein, device 10 includes a controller 12 that acts on a plurality of electronic switches M1, M2, M3, M4 (e.g., MOSFETs) coupled to corresponding output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4.

[0086] Electronic switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 are configured to selectively conduct electricity (turn on) via controller 12.

[0087] The connection scheme of the power supply Voutput and the loads L1, L2, L3, L4 between nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 enables current flow to occur in response to the conduction of the corresponding switches M1, M2, M3, M4 associated with the given nodes N1, N2, N3, N4, through the loads L1, L2, L3, L4 connected to the given nodes N1, N2, N3, N4.

[0088] To reiterate, nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 do not necessarily need to be connected to the corresponding lighting sources L1, L2, L3, and L4: the ECG 10 with four output nodes presented in this paper by way of example can in fact (automatically) self-configure based on the number of nodes (not necessarily all four nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4) that the loads L1, L2, L3, or L4 are actually connected to.

[0089] The controller 12 performs the control actions of switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 (illustratively represented here by arrow C) in a manner known per se, for example, by applying corresponding PWM (pulse width modulation) signals emitted by the controller C to the control terminals (gate in the case of field-effect transistors such as MOSFETs) of switches M1, M2, M3, and M4, so as to cause the electronic switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 to alternately conduct (turn on) and not conduct (turn off) according to the mode (e.g., the frequency and duty cycle of the PWM signal) determined by the configuration of the controller 12.

[0090] In solutions like the one described in this article, switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 can also be used to perform load detection / measurement functions.

[0091] Figure 1 The illustration provided by way of example only illustrates the possible existence of a load-sensing current generator, which includes (in the example of the embodiments presented herein, it is emphasized that this is merely an example) a voltage generator V1, referred to as acting on the ground GND of the control terminal (in the case presented here as an example) of transistor Q1, which is arranged with an emitter connected to a resistor R1 representing ground GND and a collector from below the load sensing line, which, for the purpose of performing the load sensing function described below, is connected via corresponding diodes D1, D2, D3 and D4 (cathodes) to sensing nodes N1, N2, N3 and N4 disposed between switches M1, M2, M3, M4 and diodes D1, D2, D3 and D4 (anodes).

[0092] The node (denoted by P) between transistor Q1 and resistor R1 is connected to threshold comparator 16, the output of which is able to supply load detection signal D to controller 12.

[0093] The terminals of switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 opposite to nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 (in this example, the source terminals, as they are field-effect transistors such as MOSFETs) are connected together to node S and from another resistor R2, which is designated as ground GND, and is connected at node S to an output stage (buffer amplifier) ​​18 configured to supply a load measurement signal M to controller 12.

[0094] Specifically, by causing switches M1, M2, M3 and M4 to conduct selectively, controller 12 can couple nodes N1, N2, N3 and N4 (via diodes D1, D2, D3 and D4 that implement wired OR function) to transistor Q1 (which together with resistor R1 and source V1 constitute a load sensing current generator).

[0095] In this way, a load sensing current value can be generated at node P, which varies depending on whether the node N1, N2, N3, or N4 involved in each detection action couples the load to it. Therefore, the output signal D of comparator 16 (which compares the signal at node P with a reference threshold) presents a logic value that varies depending on whether the node N1, N2, N3, or N4 involved in each detection action couples the load to it.

[0096] Therefore, the number of times the output signal D of comparator 16 presents a "low" (or "0") logic value or a "high" (or "1") logic value indicates how much load is connected to device 10.

[0097] Similarly, by causing switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 to conduct selectively (or even just switches where a load coupled to the corresponding node N1, N2, N3, or N4 has been detected), controller 12 can couple the involved load to node S, thus generating a signal on resistor R2 at node S itself, which is a function of the value of the load involved each time. Resistor R2 actually acts as a shunt resistor to measure the current “consumed” by LEDs L1, L2, L3, or L4 (again, not all output nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 necessarily require loads L1, L2, L3, or L4 to be coupled to them).

[0098] Therefore, the signal M generated by the output stage 18 (which may be converted into digital format) supplies the controller 12 with the measurement of the value of the load involved.

[0099] It should be noted again that switches M1, M2, M3, and M4 can be used (e.g., in PWM mode) to normally drive loads (lighting sources L1, L2, L3, and L4, regardless of their number) via source Voutput, and can also be used for the following reasons:

[0100] A current generator and diodes D1, D2, D3, and D4, the current generator being used to detect the load of the generator, including a voltage source V1, a transistor Q1, and a resistor R1. These diodes are used to detect the number of sources connected as loads to nodes N1, N2, N3, or N4 to generate a signal supplied to comparator 16 (and thus the load detection signal D); and

[0101] The signal supplied by stage 18 is used to measure the value of the corresponding electrical load (load measurement signal M).

[0102] On the other hand, it should be understood that Figure 1 The illustrations provided are merely examples; one can anticipate various other methods for obtaining the same signal.

[0103] Basically, the device 10 exemplified herein includes a load detection circuit system comprising a signal generator (source V1, transistor Q1, and resistor R1) that can be coupled (via diodes D1, D2, D3, and D4) to output nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 to apply a detection signal to nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 that can be regarded as a means of detecting the presence of an applied load starting from voltage V1.

[0104] In response to the aforementioned detection signal, nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 generate load sensing signals at node P. These load sensing signals have different values ​​depending on whether the loads L1, L2, L3, and L4 are coupled to or not coupled to the nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 targeted by the load detection action each time.

[0105] Comparator 16 is configured to compare the aforementioned load sensing signals received from nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 with its detection threshold in response to a probe signal applied to it.

[0106] Therefore, the result of the comparison performed by comparator 16 (represented by signal D) depends on whether each node N1, N2, N3, N4 connects to the loads L1, L2, L3, L4. Thus, signal D indicates the connection of the lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4 to the output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4, thereby allowing it to be determined how many of nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 (i.e., the number of nodes) connect to the loads (lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4).

[0107] Similarly, the device 10 exemplified herein includes a circuit system (elements designated by reference numerals R2, 18) configured (via electronic switches M1, M2, M3, M4) to be coupled to output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 to generate a load measurement signal M that indicates the magnitude of the load obtained from the lighting sources (L1, L2, L3, L4) connected to the output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4, and thus may indicate the number of loads connected to nodes N1, N2, N3, N4, just like the signal D.

[0108] More specifically, when the ECG is equipped with load-based diagnostic features (in a manner known to those skilled in the art), the self-configuration mechanism described herein can intervene by enabling or disabling runtime diagnostics based on signal M according to the magnitude of the load detected during the setup phase.

[0109] As already explained, the solutions described herein are primarily aimed at enabling the device to perform automatic self-configuration, rather than at modalities of how the device 10 is configured, although the possibility of defining configurations in a conventional manner is retained under the operator’s control. These modalities depend on the nature of the device and are, for example, modalities that will be considered as known from specifications (e.g., DALI).

[0110] By way of example only, it is conceivable that controller 12 has DALI registers and storage within it (e.g., in block 120), such as enabling device 10 to self-configure based on detected load according to various operating modes that differ from each other (in a manner known per se, e.g., according to DT-8 DALI configuration), such as:

[0111] In Adjustable White (TW) mode, it is found that when only two loads are connected, it actually has the ability to control the color temperature of the emitted white light;

[0112] In RGB mode, when three loads are detected (e.g., three lighting generators operating with red=R, green=G, and blue=B);

[0113] In RGBW mode, this occurs when four loads are detected (e.g., four light generators, including three generators operating with red=R, green=G, and blue=B, plus one generator operating with white=W).

[0114] All DALI registers and their corresponding memory banks are self-programmed based on the most suitable or common settings (in a manner known per se) according to the specific number of channels detected.

[0115] In like Figure 1 The middle represents Figure 1 In the diagram, the order of load connection is independent of the order of output terminals: for example, if (only) two loads are connected to the quad output ECG at the first and third outputs, the second and fourth outputs are disconnected, and the TW operating mode is selected in all cases.

[0116] On the other hand, the following solution can also be conceived: considering the sequence in which various output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 undergo load detection actions (and possibly, considering load measurement signals, such as signal M), the controller 12 can cause the actions of the drive sources L1, L2, L3, L4 to be specific according to each individual load.

[0117] As already illustrated, when providing load-based diagnostic features to the ECG, the self-configuration mechanism described herein can intervene to enable or disable runtime diagnostics based on the magnitude of the load detected during the setup phase (e.g., based on signal M).

[0118] In fact, it was expected that the connected load would be identified during the setup phase, but no additional runtime checks were anticipated.

[0119] As already explained, Figure 1 The illustrations provided are merely examples; various other ways to achieve the same functionality as described in this article can be envisioned.

[0120] For example, the detection of loads connected to the output node can be done in a completely different way, for example, by means of current transformers or Hall sensors that may operate in parallel (i.e., all channels at the same time) rather than sequentially, without using any switches.

[0121] The detection of loads connected to the output nodes can also be practiced using a load measurement signal M, which, as already noted, can (also) be regarded as a load detection signal that precisely indicates the number of loads connected to the output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4, as long as it indicates, for example, the magnitude of the load obtained from the lighting sources (L1, L2, L3, L4) connected to the aforementioned nodes: the magnitude of the load measured via signal M is in fact a function of the number of loads (e.g., lighting sources L1, L2, L3, or L4) connected to the output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4.

[0122] At least in principle, solutions that do not envision performance based on load measurement-based diagnostic features can be anticipated.

[0123] Therefore, it is conceivable that a solution is not intended to generate two different signals D and M, as in the example presented in this paper. As has been seen, the reason for this is that the load measurement signal M itself can (also) provide an indication of the number of loads connected to nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4.

[0124] Similarly, one can conceive of generating (only) a signal like signal D, without conceiving of generating signal M.

[0125] As in the example presented in this paper, it is conceivable that a solution for generating two distinct signals D and M could prove advantageous for various reasons, such as:

[0126] For the different levels of accuracy envisioned for load detection and load measurement actions: the load measurement circuit may not be sensitive enough to detect small loads; however, for (self-)configuration purposes, it is desirable to detect these small loads; and / or

[0127] Load detection actions are typically conceived for the initial configuration of the ECG, while load measurement actions for diagnostic purposes must typically be maintained throughout runtime.

[0128] Although not included for the sake of simplicity Figure 1 While presented in the text, it is conceivable (e.g., at the level of software or hardware tools—some examples will be explicitly mentioned below) that operators can use selection features to:

[0129] Switch ECG 10 between DT-8 operation and non-DALI operation;

[0130] Switch ECG 10 between DT-8 operation and different DALI operations (e.g., DT-6);

[0131] Restore the self-configured DT-8 DALI configuration;

[0132] Choose from different self-configuration modes.

[0133] In other words, software tools can be used to exclude or modify self-configuration. These software tools can access device 10 via the DALI port itself or some other communication port (whether wired or wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, IR, NFC, etc.)). For example, it is possible to rewrite (self-)programming code via tools (such as T4T tools).

[0134] Device 10 is an example of a DALI or DALI+DT-8 ECG with more than two outputs (four in the illustrated example) that can self-configure based on the number of connected loads. Self-configuration consists of specific settings for the DALI registers and corresponding memory banks.

[0135] A selection feature can be envisioned for, for example, switching between DT-8 and different operating modes (whether DALI or non-DALI). This selection is implemented based on the operator's choice, rather than automatically. The selector can be a physical device (e.g., a DIP switch) or any other type of selection actuator (such as a jumper, magnet), or it can be implemented through software-level action or through any other means such as enabling selection.

[0136] Selecting a feature can either bring ECG back to its default state and restart self-configuration, or create a different type of self-configuration.

[0137] For example, ECG can switch between DT-8 and DT-6, where a DALI address is assigned for each load found in DT-6.

[0138] As we have seen, the order in which the physical load is connected to the output terminals is not important, so that the load can be connected to any terminal of the device, given that only the total number of terminals occupied is important.

[0139] In the example presented herein (again, this is merely an example), the load sensing circuit may include a load sensing current generator having a voltage generator V1 representing ground GND, which acts on the control terminal of transistor Q1, which has an emitter connected to a resistor R1 that also represents ground GND, allowing the sensing current generator to be selectively connected to the load terminal. Figure 1 Nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 in the dataset), therefore detection is performed by comparing them to a certain threshold ( Figure 1 The comparator 16 in the signal determines whether the actual load is connected or not.

[0140] Load measurement circuit ( Figure 1 Level 18) allows you to determine whether the load is measurable during runtime. If the load is measurable during runtime, diagnostic features on the corresponding output channel can be activated.

[0141] Furthermore, the load value can cause different automatic configurations of the ECG, not only for startup diagnostics but also for normal operation.

[0142] As seen, it is conceivable that tools (e.g., software tools) for rewriting, restoring, modifying, or disabling self-configuration can access device 10 via the DALI interface itself or some other port (whether wired or wireless). It is possible that the status detection of auxiliary inputs can modify self-configuration, allowing the use of such auxiliary inputs to modify behavior or further control device 10 during operation. In some cases, certain auxiliary devices (such as touch DIM devices, sensors, etc.) can utilize the DALI pins themselves at the physical connection level, but with different communication modes and different electrical levels.

[0143] like Figure 1 As exemplified in the example, the same electronic switches (e.g., solid-state switches, such as MOSFETs M1, M2, M3, and M4) can be used both to drive the load (e.g., via a PWM signal) during normal operation and to detect and measure the load in the process.

[0144] Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the possible operating modes permitted for a device like the one described herein.

[0145] The above operating mode can be implemented via a computer program product that can be loaded into the controller 12 of a drive device (ECG) as described herein. Such a computer program product includes software code that causes the drive device 10 to operate in the manner described herein when the product is run on the aforementioned controller 12.

[0146] On the other hand, it should be understood that Figures 2 to 5 The order of the steps is provided only by way of example, to the extent that:

[0147] Figures 2 to 5 One or more steps illustrated in the diagram may be omitted, performed in a different manner (e.g., with other tools), and / or replaced by other steps;

[0148] Additional steps can be added; and

[0149] One or more steps may be performed in a different order than that shown in the diagram.

[0150] Figure 2 The boxes in the diagram (referring to DT-8 self-configuration with a possible reset of "manual" type (i.e., performed by the operator) illustrate the possible steps:

[0151] 1000 – Unit 10 leaves the production plant

[0152] 1001 – Default configuration (e.g., 1xDT-6)

[0153] 1002 – Load Detection

[0154] 1003 – Determine if the load does not exist / exists, where if the load does not exist, return to step 1001 (in step 1003, the result Y = yes).

[0155] 1004 – Is there only one load? If so (Y=Yes), proceed to step 1005A; otherwise (N=No), proceed to step 1005.

[0156] 1005 – Are there (only) two loads? If so (Y=Yes), proceed to step 1005A, where, for example, referring back to the previously given example, the device is configured in a mode known as Adjustable White (TW); otherwise (N=No), proceed to step 1006.

[0157] 1006 – Are there (only) three loads? If so (Y=Yes), proceed to step 1006A, where, for example, returning again to the previously given example, the device is configured in an RGB mode (white, amber, and free colors are masked) different from the previously seen TW mode; otherwise (N=No), proceed to step 1007.

[0158] 1007 – Are there four loads? If so (Y = Yes; on the other hand, given that we are dealing with a device with 4 channels in the current case, this is the only possible result), then proceed to step 1007A, where, for example, returning again to the example given earlier, the device is configured in an RGB mode different from both the TW mode and the previously seen RGB mode (amber and free colors are masked), and then proceed to step 1008.

[0159] 1008 – Setting DALI Operation Mode

[0160] 1009 – Self-configuration complete

[0161] 1010 – The device is ready for operation

[0162] 1011 – Check for possible “manual” resets; in the case of negative results (N=No), return upstream.

[0163] 1012 – If a positive result (Y=yes) is produced due to a possible reset, return to step 1001.

[0164] In short, Figure 2 The flowchart provides an example of a device 10 conceived as controller 12, which includes:

[0165] Data storage circuitry 120 is configured to store multiple sets of driver configuration data, wherein driver device 10 is configured to drive lighting sources L1, L2, L3, and L4 in one of multiple driving modes (e.g., TW, RGB, RGBW) in response to selecting a corresponding set of driver configuration data (implemented in blocks 1005A, 1006A, 1007A) from the aforementioned multiple sets of driver configuration data; and

[0166] The load detection circuitry V1, Q1, R1, and 16 are configured (e.g., via switches M1, M2, M3, M4 and diodes D1, D2, D3, D4) to couple to the aforementioned output nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 to generate a load detection signal (signal D). This load detection signal indicates (as confirmed in steps 1004, 1005, 1006, and 1007) the number of output nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4 to which the lighting sources L1, L2, L3, and L4 are connected. This allows the controller 12 to automatically select (in steps 1005A, 1006A, and 1007A) the corresponding set of driver configuration data based on the load detection signal D, which is automatically self-configured in, for example, the DT-8 field, indicating the number of output nodes to which the lighting sources are connected.

[0167] According to the TW mode, this occurs when two loads are detected.

[0168] Based on the RGB mode, in the case where three loads are detected; and

[0169] Based on the RGBW mode, this occurs when four loads are detected.

[0170] As previously discussed, it is also conceivable that different methods could be employed, for example, by utilizing a load measurement circuit system for this purpose. Figure 1 The possibility of components 18 and R2 performing load detection function, the output signal M of the load measurement circuit system can also indicate the number of output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 to which the lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4 are connected.

[0171] Figure 3 The flowchart refers to an example of the following operation: for the purpose of runtime checking of the load, Figure 2 The flowchart illustrates the scheme and the function for determining the load value (e.g., via...). Figure 1 The output stage 18 transmits the signal M) integrated.

[0172] exist Figure 3 In the flowchart, for the sake of simplicity, it has already been addressed Figure 2The flowcharts describe the boxes and their corresponding functions using the same reference numerals, without repeating their corresponding descriptions.

[0173] and Figure 2 Compared to the flowchart, Figure 3 The flowchart envisions the following additional boxes / functions:

[0174] 2000 – Before configuring steps 1004, 1005, 1005A, 1006, 1006A, 1007, and 1007A, perform load assessment in parallel with step 2001.

[0175] 2001 – Check the runtime detectability of the load after self-configuration is completed in step 1009.

[0176] 2002 – After obtaining a positive result (Y=Yes) in the step of checking the runtime detectability of the load, the corresponding detection and checking functions are executed.

[0177] In short, Figure 3 The flowchart provides an example of device 10, in which:

[0178] A load measurement circuit system (components R2, 18) is provided, configured (e.g., via electronic switches M1, M2, M3, M4) to couple to output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 to generate (box 2000) a load measurement signal M indicating the magnitude of the load from lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4 connected to output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4; and

[0179] The controller (12) is configured as follows:

[0180] Based on the load measurement signal M (which in any case indicates the number of output nodes N1, N2, N3, N4 to which lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4 are connected), the corresponding set of driver configuration data mentioned above is automatically selected (in steps 1005A, 1006A, 1007A); and / or

[0181] Based on the diagnostic characteristics of the lighting sources L1, L2, L3, and L4 connected to the output nodes N1, N2, N3, and N4, which are activated by the aforementioned load measurement signal M (in step 2002).

[0182] Figure 4 The flowchart refers to an example of the following operations: Figure 2 The scheme shown in the flowchart (which may also be applicable after appropriate modifications) Figure 3 The scheme shown in the flowchart) is also envisioned to integrate functionality with at least one possible alternative configuration (different from the configuration of the DT-8 device as previously discussed), such as:

[0183] The possible configuration of the T4T tool, which has been reviewed many times before, or another simple hardware device (such as a switch) takes effect in the step indicated by box 3002; and / or

[0184] As a possible configuration for the DT-6 device, there are possible overlay software interventions and a single type of final configuration, such as the RGBWAF type (red=R, green=G, blue=B, white=W, amber=A plus free color=F).

[0185] The word “and / or” is intended to emphasize the fact that even if two (or other) options are presented together for simple reasons, it is not necessarily necessary to assume that both are present.

[0186] Again, for the sake of brevity, Figure 4 In the flowchart, it has already been addressed Figure 2 and Figure 3 The flowcharts describe the boxes and their corresponding functions using the same reference numerals, without repeating their corresponding descriptions.

[0187] and Figure 2 Compared to the flowchart, Figure 4 The flowchart envisions the following additional boxes / functions:

[0188] 3000 – Detection of T4T configuration options performed by the operator

[0189] 3001 – The corresponding programming is complete, and the device is ready to operate after T4T programming (box 1010').

[0190] 3002 – Check whether, for example, activation of a possible DT-6 configuration option has occurred via a DIP switch; if the verification step yields a negative result (N=No), proceed to the DT-8 (self) configuration option via steps 1004, 1005, 1005A, 1006, 1006A, 1007, 1007A.

[0191] If the verification result in step 3002 is positive (Y=Yes), the DT-6 configuration steps represented by 1004', 1004A', 1005', 1005A', 1006', 1006A', 1007', and 1007A' are executed.

[0192] 3003 – Check whether the activation of the possible DT-6 configuration options in step 3002 has occurred, return upstream in the case of a negative result (N=No), and return to step 1001 via step 1012 in the case of a positive result (Y=Yes).

[0193] The steps of the boxes represented by 1004', 1004A', 1005', 1005A', 1006', 1006A', 1007', and 1007A' can be considered as a whole doubling of the steps relative to the DT-8 configurations 1004, 1005, 1005A, 1006, 1006A, 1007, and 1007A, where the difference is indicated by the following fact:

[0194] If the result of step 1004', which checks whether only one load is connected, is positive (Y=Yes), the corresponding DT-6 configuration (1xDT-6) is set after the same step.

[0195] Boxes 1005A', 1006A', and 1007A' correspond to the respective DT-6 settings (2xDT-6, 3xDT-6, 4xDT-6).

[0196] In short, Figure 4 The flowchart provides an example of a device 10 configured to receive user-generated configuration commands (see boxes 3000, 3002), and the device 10 is configured to drive lighting sources L1, L2, L3, L4 in one or more alternative drive modes (e.g., following the T4T configuration option - see box 3001 - and / or the DT-6 configuration option - see boxes 1004A', 1005A', 1006A', 1007A') that are different from the self-configured drive mode (e.g., DT-8) in steps 1005A, 1006A', 1007A'.

[0197] As already explained, Figure 4 The functions presented in the flowchart can be applied not only to Figure 2 The flowchart provides examples of operations that can be applied to... Figure 3 The solution is presented in the flowchart.

[0198] The above possibilities are due to Figure 5 The flowchart example, where, again, for the sake of brevity, has been addressed... Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The flowcharts describe the boxes and their corresponding functions using the same reference numerals, without repeating their corresponding descriptions.

[0199] In fact, Figure 5 The flowchart illustrates the integration Figure 3 The possibilities of the flowchart scheme, Figure 3 The flowchart envisions a function to determine load values ​​for the purpose of load runtime verification. This is envisioned through configuration via a T4T tool and / or as a DT-6 device, which has a final configuration of an RGBWAF type with functions such as:

[0200] 3000 – Detects T4T programming options performed by the operator.

[0201] 3001 – The corresponding programming is complete, and the device is ready to operate after T4T programming (box 1010').

[0202] 3002 – Check whether, for example, activation of a possible DT-6 configuration option has occurred via a DIP switch; if the verification step yields a negative result (N=No), proceed to the DT-8 (self) configuration option via steps 1004, 1005, 1005A, 1006, 1006A, 1007, 1007A.

[0203] If the verification result in step 3002 is positive (Y=Yes), the DT-6 configuration steps represented by 1004', 1004A', 1005', 1005A', 1006', 1006A', 1007', and 1007A' are executed.

[0204] 3003 – Check whether the activation of the possible DT-6 configuration options in step 3002 has occurred, return upstream in the case of a negative result (N=No), and return to step 1001 via step 1012 in the case of a positive result (Y=Yes).

[0205] Of course, without prejudice to the fundamental principles, details and implementation methods may vary relative to what has been described herein by way of example only, without departing from the scope of protection specified in the appended claims.

[0206] List of reference numerals

[0207] Device (ECG) 10

[0208] Load power supply voltage Voutput

[0209] Loads L1, L2, L3, L4

[0210] Load nodes N1, N2, N3, N4

[0211] Switches (MOSFETs) M1, M2, M3, M4

[0212] Diodes D1, D2, D3, D4

[0213] Controller 12

[0214] Self-configuration function 120

[0215] Control function C

[0216] Load Detection Source V1

[0217] Load sensing transistor Q1

[0218] Load sensing resistor R1

[0219] Load detection comparator 16

[0220] Load detection node P

[0221] Load detection signal D

[0222] Load measurement node S

[0223] Load measuring resistor R2

[0224] Load Measurement Level 18

[0225] Load measurement signal M

[0226] Ground GND

[0227] The device is 1000 meters away from the production plant

[0228] Default configuration 1001

[0229] Load detection 1002

[0230] Load absence / existence 1003

[0231] Is there only one load? 1004, 1004'

[0232] 1xDT-6 configuration 1004A'

[0233] Are there two loads? 1005

[0234] 2xDT-6 / 2xDT-8 configuration 1005A, 1005A'

[0235] Are there three loads? 1006

[0236] 3xDT-6 / 3xDT-8 configuration 1006A, 1006A'

[0237] Are there four loads? 1007

[0238] 4xDT-6 / 4xDT-8 configuration 1007A, 1007A'

[0239] Set DALI operation mode 1008

[0240] Completed self-configuration 1009

[0241] The device is ready to operate 1010, 1010'

[0242] Check for possible resets 1011

[0243] Based on the positive result, return upstream 1012

[0244] Load Assessment 2000

[0245] Check load detectability 2001

[0246] Load detection and inspection 2002

[0247] T4T Programming Options 3000

[0248] Complete T4T programming 3001

[0249] DT-6 Configuration Option 3002

[0250] Activate DT-6 configuration 3003.

Claims

1. A driver arrangement for a lighting source, characterized by The driver apparatus comprises: a plurality of output nodes connectable to lighting sources to be driven by the plurality of output nodes, a controller comprising data storage circuitry configured to store a plurality of sets of driver configuration data, wherein the driver apparatus is configured to drive the lighting sources in one of a plurality of different driving modes in response to selecting a respective set of driver configuration data from among the plurality of sets of driver configuration data, and load detection circuitry configured to be coupled to an output node of the plurality of output nodes to produce a load detection signal indicative of a number of the output nodes of the plurality of output nodes to which lighting sources of the lighting sources are connected, wherein the controller is configured to automatically select the respective set of driver configuration data based on the load detection signal indicative of the number of the output nodes of the plurality of output nodes to which lighting sources of the lighting sources are connected.

2. The driver arrangement for a lighting source according to claim 1, characterized in that, comprises a plurality of electronic switches coupled to respective output nodes of the plurality of output nodes, the plurality of electronic switches being configured to alternately conduct and not conduct, wherein in response to a respective electronic switch of the plurality of electronic switches conducting, current flows through a lighting source of the lighting sources connected to any one of the plurality of output nodes.

3. A driver arrangement for a lighting source as defined in claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that The load detection circuitry comprises: a signal generator configured to be coupled to an output node of the plurality of output nodes to apply a probe signal to the output node, and a comparator configured to be coupled to an output node of the plurality of output nodes to perform a comparison of a load detection sense signal received from the plurality of output nodes in response to applying the probe signal to the output node with a detection threshold, wherein a result of the comparison is indicative of a lighting source being connected to the output node of the plurality of output nodes.

4. The driver arrangement for a lighting source according to claim 3, characterized in that, The signal generator of the load detection circuitry is configured to be coupled to the output node of the plurality of output nodes via a plurality of electronic switches.

5. The driver arrangement for a lighting source according to claim 1, characterized in that, comprises load measurement circuitry configured to be coupled to an output node of the plurality of output nodes to produce a load measurement signal indicative of a magnitude of a load provided by a lighting source connected to the output node of the plurality of output nodes, wherein the controller is configured to: automatically select a respective set of driver configuration data based on the load measurement signal.

6. The driver arrangement for a lighting source according to claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is configured to activate a diagnostic feature of a lighting source connected to an output node of the plurality of output nodes based on the load measurement signal.

7. The driver arrangement for a lighting source according to claim 5, characterized in that, The load measurement circuitry is configured to be coupled to an output node of the plurality of output nodes to produce the load measurement signal via a plurality of electronic switches.

8. The driver arrangement for a lighting source of claim 1, characterized by The driver apparatus is configured to receive a user-generated configuration command and, in response to the user-generated configuration command, drive the lighting sources in at least one alternative driving mode to the plurality of different driving modes.

9. The driver arrangement for a lighting source of claim 1, characterized by The plurality of different driving modes comprises a DALI device type 8 (DT-8) driving mode.

10. The driver arrangement for a lighting source according to claim 8, characterized in that, The at least one alternative drive mode comprises a DALI device type 6 DT-6 drive mode. The at least one alternative drive mode comprises a DALI device type 6 DT-6 drive mode.

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