Control gear for a light source, system and method for operating a control gear

Abstract

Control gear for a light source (7), comprising: a supply inlet (21), a supply circuit (12) for supplying the light source (7), which is coupled to the supply input (21), and an interface (22) separate from the supply input (21), wherein the operating device (10) is configured to detect, depending on a time period (43, 47) in which an alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) exceeds a threshold value (39) during a half-cycle of the alternating signal (41, 45), whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is a control signal, wherein a supply voltage (30) received at the supply input (21) is independent of the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22).

Description

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to control gear for light sources, systems with such control gear, and methods for operating a control gear. Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate in particular to control gear with an interface for receiving a control signal.

[0002] With the increasing prevalence of light sources such as LED modules or other light sources with one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), control gear for such light sources is becoming increasingly important. The control gear has a constant current source to provide a constant current for the LEDs.

[0003] Such control devices can have an interface for receiving a control signal. This interface can be connected, for example, to an AC power source via a push button or switch to enable dimming of the light source by pressing the button or switch. The interface can also be connected to an AC power source via a motion detector to enable, for example, a corridor function or other motion-dependent control.

[0004] To prevent faulty behavior of the control gear in response to an alternating signal received at the interface, the control signal must be distinguishable from interference. Such interference can be caused, for example, by capacitive or inductive coupling between a supply line connected to a supply input of the control gear and a line leading to the interface. This coupling can become significant, especially over longer cable lengths.

[0005] To determine whether an alternating signal present at the interface is indeed a control signal, the control gear can determine if the signal exceeds a threshold. However, if the control gear is to be configured to detect control signals with varying amplitudes, for example, in the range of 90 V to 305 V, the difficulty with such conventional techniques is that control signals over such a wide amplitude range cannot always be reliably detected.

[0006] German patent DE 103 29 683 A1 relates to a digital interface with a potentiometer for a lamp control gear. The interface has two input terminals for a digital control input and an evaluation logic designed to process both digital signals and mains voltage signals applied to the terminals. The amplitude of the mains voltage applied to the terminals can be continuously adjusted via a potentiometer and is converted into pulse width information. The evaluation logic then translates this pulse width information into control commands, such as dimming values, for the lamp control gear. Thresholding can be achieved during the conversion to pulse width information, for example, using a Zener diode circuit. The duty cycle of the pulse width information can be converted by the evaluation logic into dimming values, on / off commands, etc., using a table or function implemented within it.

[0007] EP 1 128 711 A2 relates to a dimmable ballast with a dual control signal.

[0008] US Patent 2012 / 0235585A1 relates to a method and device for detecting a dimmer phase angle and selectively determining an input voltage. A phase angle is determined, and an input voltage is derived based on this determination if the phase angle is greater than or equal to a predetermined phase angle. If the phase angle is less than a predetermined phase angle, a previously determined input voltage is assumed.

[0009] The invention is based on the objective of providing devices, systems, and methods that reduce the problems described. In particular, the invention is based on the objective of providing devices, systems, and methods in which an operating device can reliably detect whether an alternating signal applied to an interface is a control signal, and in which the operating device also supports this detection for a wide range of control signal amplitudes.

[0010] Operating equipment, a system, and a method with the features specified in the independent claims are described. The dependent claims define embodiments of the invention.

[0011] According to exemplary embodiments of the invention, it is provided that, depending on the duration during which an alternating signal received at an interface of an operating device exceeds a threshold value, it is determined whether the signal is a control signal.

[0012] Depending on the duration during which the alternating signal reaches the threshold value, it can be inferred whether the alternating signal is the control signal. For example, the alternating signal can be identified as a control signal if its amplitude equals the amplitude of the operating device's supply voltage.

[0013] An operating device for a light source according to claim 1 comprises a power input, a power supply circuit for supplying the light source which is coupled to the power input, and an interface separate from the power input. The operating device is configured to detect, depending on the duration during which an alternating signal received at the interface exceeds a threshold value during one half-cycle of the alternating signal, whether the alternating signal is a control signal. A supply voltage received at the power input is independent of the alternating signal received at the interface.

[0014] The operating device can be configured to determine the amplitude of the alternating signal depending on the duration of the signal.

[0015] The operating device can be configured to determine, based on a comparison of the determined amplitude of the AC signal with the amplitude of a supply AC voltage at the supply input, whether the AC signal is the control signal.

[0016] The control gear can be configured to determine a further duration during which the supply voltage at the supply input exceeds the threshold value during a half-cycle of the supply voltage. The control gear can determine this further duration either computationally or based on a characteristic map, depending on the amplitude of the supply voltage and the threshold value.

[0017] The operating device can be configured to recognize, based on a comparison of the time duration and the subsequent time duration, whether the alternating signal is the control signal.

[0018] The operating device may include a comparator circuit designed to compare the AC signal with the threshold value and to generate an output signal indicating the result of the comparison. The comparator circuit may include a Zener diode.

[0019] The operating device may include an electronic evaluation unit for processing the output signal of the comparator circuit.

[0020] The electronic evaluation unit can be configured to adapt the processing of the output signal of the comparator circuit as a function of the amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input. The adaptation can include adjusting at least one threshold value and / or at least one rule for determining the amplitude from the time duration.

[0021] The operating device can be configured to control the supply circuit depending on the alternating signal at the interface, if the alternating signal is the control signal.

[0022] The control gear can be configured to dim the light source depending on the alternating signal, if the alternating signal is the control signal. The control gear can also be configured to determine a dimming level or a change in the dimming level depending on how long the control signal is present at the interface.

[0023] The control gear can be configured to supply the light source with energy depending on the alternating signal. For example, in a corridor function where the control signal is provided to the interface via a motion detector, the light source can be selectively supplied with increased power by the control gear only when the motion detector registers movement.

[0024] The operating device can be an LED converter.

[0025] An operating device for a light source according to one embodiment comprises a power input, a power supply circuit for supplying the light source which is coupled to the power input, and an interface. The operating device is configured to adapt a procedure for detecting control signals at the interface depending on an amplitude and / or a frequency of a supply voltage at the power input.

[0026] The operating device may include an electronic evaluation unit configured to detect the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage and to execute the procedure for detecting control signals adapted depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage.

[0027] The electronic evaluation unit can be configured to change a threshold comparison for the detection of control signals depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. An amplitude threshold, against which the amplitude of an AC signal at the interface is compared, can be set depending on the amplitude of the supply voltage.

[0028] The electronic evaluation unit can be configured to modify a calculation rule for detecting control signals depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. The calculation of the amplitude of an AC signal from a duration during which the AC signal exceeds a threshold value can be performed depending on the amplitude and frequency of the supply voltage.

[0029] The electronic evaluation device may include an integrated semiconductor circuit or may be an integrated semiconductor circuit.

[0030] The operating device according to each of the embodiments can be an LED converter.

[0031] A luminaire according to one embodiment comprises a control gear and an associated LED module.

[0032] A system according to an embodiment comprises an operating device according to an embodiment, a light source connected to an output of the operating device and comprising at least one light-emitting diode, a supply voltage source connected to the supply input of the operating device, and an actuating device configured to conductively connect the source to the interface of the operating device.

[0033] The actuating device can include a switch, a push button, or a motion detector.

[0034] A method for operating a control gear for a lamp according to an exemplary embodiment is described, wherein the control gear comprises a power input, a power supply circuit for supplying the lamp which is coupled to the power input, and an interface. The method includes receiving an AC signal at the interface and executing a procedure to detect whether the AC signal received at the interface is a control signal for controlling the control gear. In this procedure, a time period during which an AC signal received at the interface exceeds a threshold value during one half-cycle of the AC signal is determined. Depending on this time period, it is detected whether the AC signal is the control signal for controlling the operating circuit.

[0035] The method can determine, depending on the duration of time, whether the amplitude of the alternating signal is equal to the amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input.

[0036] The method allows the amplitude of the alternating signal to be determined depending on the duration of the signal.

[0037] The method allows for the identification of whether the alternating signal is the control signal by comparing the determined amplitude of the alternating signal with the amplitude of a supply AC voltage at the supply input.

[0038] This method allows for the determination of an additional duration during which the supply voltage at the input exceeds the threshold value during a half-cycle of the supply voltage. This additional duration can be calculated or map-based, depending on the amplitude of the supply voltage and the threshold value.

[0039] The method allows for the determination of whether the alternating signal is the control signal by comparing the initial time duration with the subsequent time duration.

[0040] In this method, a comparator circuit in the control device can compare the alternating signal with the threshold value and generate an output signal that indicates a result of the comparison.

[0041] In this method, an electronic processing unit can adapt the output signal of the comparator circuit as a function of the amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input. The adaptation can include adjusting at least one threshold value and / or at least one rule for determining the amplitude from the time duration.

[0042] In this method, the supply circuit can be controlled depending on the alternating signal at the interface, if the alternating signal is the control signal.

[0043] In this method, the light source can be dimmed depending on the alternating signal, provided the alternating signal is the control signal. A dimming level or a change in the dimming level can be determined depending on how long the control signal is present at the interface.

[0044] In this method, the light source can be supplied with energy depending on the alternating signal. For example, in a corridor function where the control signal is provided to the interface via a motion detector, the light source can be selectively supplied with increased power by the control gear only when the motion detector registers movement.

[0045] The procedure can be carried out with the operating device or the system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0046] A method for operating a control gear for a lamp according to an exemplary embodiment is described, wherein the control gear comprises a supply input, a supply circuit for supplying the lamp which is coupled to the supply input, and an interface. The method includes receiving an AC signal at the interface and executing a procedure to detect whether the AC signal received at the interface is a control signal for controlling the control gear. In the method, the procedure is adapted depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of a supply voltage at the supply input.

[0047] The method may include detecting the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage.

[0048] Adapting the procedure may involve changing a threshold comparison for detecting control signals depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. An amplitude threshold, against which the amplitude of an AC signal at the interface is compared, can be set depending on the amplitude of the supply voltage.

[0049] Adapting the procedure may involve modifying a calculation rule for detecting control signals depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. Calculating the amplitude of an AC signal from a duration during which the AC signal exceeds a threshold value can be performed depending on the amplitude and frequency of the supply voltage.

[0050] The procedure can be carried out with the operating device or the system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] The characteristics of methods according to further embodiments and the effects achieved thereby correspond to the characteristics described with reference to operating equipment according to embodiments.

[0052] In operating devices, systems, and methods according to the exemplary embodiments, a reliable differentiation between control signals and interference signals can be performed even if the operating device is configured for use with control signals of different amplitudes. In particular, operating devices, systems, and methods according to the exemplary embodiments can reliably detect whether an alternating signal, equivalent to a supply voltage at the supply input, is supplied to the interface as a control signal.

[0053] Further features, advantages and functions of exemplary embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which identical or similar reference numerals denote units with the same or similar function. Fig. Figure 1 shows a lighting system with a control gear for a light source according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. Figure 2 shows signal shapes to illustrate the operation of an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 shows a change signal at an interface to illustrate the operation of an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 4 shows signal shapes to illustrate the operation of an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of a process that can be carried out by an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart of a process that can be carried out by an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 7 is a flowchart of a process that can be carried out by an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 8 shows an implementation of components for detecting a control signal, which can be used in an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 9 shows an implementation of components for detecting a control signal, which can be used in an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a flowchart of a process that can be carried out by an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] Exemplary embodiments are described below with reference to the figures. Although some embodiments are described in the context of specific applications, such as LED converters, and in the context of specific structural features, the embodiments are not limited to these. The features of the various embodiments can be combined unless expressly excluded in the following description.

[0055] Fig. Figure 1 shows a system 1 in which an operating device 10 is configured as an LED converter according to an exemplary embodiment, which supplies energy to an LED module 7. The light source can comprise one light-emitting diode (LED) or several LEDs 8. The LEDs 8 can be inorganic or organic LEDs.

[0056] The LED converter 10 is coupled on its input side to a supply voltage source 2, for example, a mains voltage. The LED converter 10 can include a rectifier and a power factor correction circuit 11. The LED converter 10 can include at least one converter circuit 12. The converter circuit 12 can be a DC / DC converter that includes at least one controllable switch 13.

[0057] A control unit for the LED converter 10, whose function may be integrated into the evaluation unit 24 described in more detail below, may comprise one or more integrated semiconductor circuits. The control unit may be configured to control the operation of the LED converter 10. The control unit may be configured to switch at least one controllable switch 13 of the converter circuit 12 in a clocked manner. For example, the control unit may be configured to control or regulate an output current of the LED converter 10 and, for this purpose, to control the at least one controllable switch 13 of the converter circuit 12. The control unit may be designed as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), as a controller, as a microcontroller, as a processor, as another chip, or as a combination of such units.

[0058] The LED module 7 is configured to receive energy from the LED converter 10 to operate at least one LED 8. For this purpose, the LED module 7 can have an input that is electrically connected to an output of the LED converter 10. Alternatively or additionally, the LED module 7 and the LED converter 10 can be configured for wireless energy transmission. For this purpose, the LED converter 10 can have an antenna for wireless energy transmission. The LED module 7 can have a further antenna to receive the wirelessly transmitted energy.

[0059] The LED module 7 can include a rectifier circuit 9 or a driver circuit 9 connected between the input and the at least one light-emitting diode 9.

[0060] The LED converter 10 has a supply input 21, which is connected to the source 2 via supply lines 21. The LED converter 10 has an interface 22 for receiving a control signal. To control the LED converter 10, the source 2 can also be selectively connected to the interface 22 via at least one line 5 to apply the supply voltage to the interface 22.

[0061] Various applications are possible for controlling the LED converter 10 in this way. A push button 4, a switch, or another actuated element can be connected between the source 2 and the interface 22. Actuation of the push button 4, switch, or other actuated element can cause the supply voltage to be selectively applied to the interface 22 as a control signal. In this way, for example, a dimming function can be implemented. Depending on the duration for which the push button 4 is pressed, the LED converter 10 can determine which dimming level should be set and / or by which increment or decrement the dimming level should be changed.

[0062] In another embodiment, a motion detector can include a controllable switch 4 to implement a corridor function. Source 2 is selectively connected to interface 22 when motion is detected. The LED converter 10 can selectively increase its output current, voltage, or power when the motion detector passes the supply voltage as a control signal to interface 22.

[0063] Due to capacitive or inductive coupling between the supply lines 3 and at least one other line 5, an interference signal may be present at interface 22, even if the push button 4 or other controllable switches are not closed. The interference signal may be a dummy signal due to the capacitive coupling.

[0064] Fig. Figure 1 shows a capacitance of 6. The capacitance of 6 could represent a parasitic capacitance of supply lines. The capacitance of 6 could be a parasitic capacitance responsible for the interference signal. Alternatively or additionally, it could be a parasitic inductance that is in Fig. The component not shown (1) may be responsible for the interference signal. Such a parasitic inductance can be present in parallel or in series with the capacitor 6.

[0065] The LED converter 10 is configured to detect whether an alternating signal received at interface 22 is a control signal or an interference signal. The LED converter 10 can also be configured to detect whether the alternating signal at interface 22 has an amplitude equal to the amplitude of a supply voltage applied to the supply input 21.

[0066] As will be described in more detail later, the LED converter 10 is configured to determine, depending on the duration during which an alternating signal received at interface 22 exceeds a threshold value in one half-cycle of the alternating signal, whether a control signal with the same amplitude as the supply voltage at supply input 21 is present at interface 22. This can be done in different ways. The LED converter 10 can calculate the amplitude of the alternating signal from the duration during which an alternating signal received at interface 22 exceeds a threshold value in one half-cycle of the alternating signal, in combination with the frequency of the supply voltage and the threshold value.Alternatively or additionally, the LED converter 10 can calculate or measure how long the supply voltage at the supply input 10 is greater than the threshold value per half-cycle and compare this with the duration in which an alternating signal received at the interface 22 is greater than the threshold value in one half-cycle of the alternating signal.

[0067] The LED converter 10 can include a comparator circuit 23 connected to the interface, which compares the signal applied to the interface 22 with a threshold value. An output signal of the comparator circuit 23 can then change its signal level when the AC signal reaches the threshold value. The output signal of the comparator circuit 23 can have a first signal level when the AC signal is less than the threshold value. The output signal of the comparator circuit 23 can have a second signal level, different from the first signal level, when the AC signal is greater than the threshold value.

[0068] The LED converter 10 can include an evaluation unit 24 configured to determine whether the duration of the AC signal 22 per half-cycle exceeding the threshold is compatible with a control signal whose amplitude is equal to the supply voltage. The evaluation unit 24 can include at least one integrated semiconductor circuit. The integrated semiconductor circuit can be a microcontroller, controller, processor, microprocessor, or other integrated semiconductor circuit, or a combination of such semiconductor circuits. The integrated semiconductor circuit can be configured to determine the amplitude of the AC signal from the duration of the AC signal per half-cycle exceeding the threshold, the threshold, and a frequency or period of the AC signal.The integrated semiconductor circuit can be configured, either alternatively or additionally, to determine, from the amplitude of the supply voltage at the supply input 21, the threshold value, and the frequency of the supply voltage at the supply input 21, the duration during which the supply voltage per half-cycle is greater than the threshold value. The integrated semiconductor circuit of the evaluation unit 24 can be coupled to the supply input 21 via a detection circuit or directly.

[0069] If the alternating signal at interface 22 is detected as a control signal, for example because its amplitude is equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage at supply input 21, the LED converter can be controlled depending on the control signal. A dimming function can be implemented, depending on how long the control signal is present at interface 22. The LED converter 10 can selectively increase an output power or output current while the control signal is present at interface 22, for example to implement a corridor function.

[0070] The functionality and configuration of the LED converter 10 according to exemplary embodiments are described with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 12 explained further.

[0071] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates signal shapes to explain the function and configuration of the LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] A supply voltage 30 is applied to the supply input 21, which is an alternating voltage with a period 32 and an amplitude 31.

[0073] An alternating signal 40 is present at interface 22. The alternating signal 40 can be an interference signal 41. The interference signal 41 can be generated by capacitive or inductive coupling between the supply lines 3 and the at least one line 5. The interference signal 41 differs from a control signal in its amplitude. The amplitude 42 of the interference signal 41 is smaller than the amplitude of the control signal, which can be equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage.

[0074] The alternating signal 40 can be a control signal 45. In this case, the amplitude 46 of the alternating signal can be equal to the amplitude 31 of the supply voltage.

[0075] To determine whether the control signal 45 or only an interference signal 41 with a different amplitude is present at interface 22, a comparison is made with a threshold value 39. This determines whether and for how long the threshold value 39 is exceeded. The LED converter 10 can also be configured to quantitatively determine whether a duration 47 during which the alternating signal 40 exceeds the threshold value is such that it can be concluded that the amplitude 46 of the alternating signal 40 must be equal to the amplitude 31 of the supply voltage 30.

[0076] If the LED converter 10 is configured for use with different supply voltages, the threshold 39 can be selected to be smaller than the smallest supply voltage amplitude for which the LED converter 10 is configured. For example, if the LED converter 10 is configured for use with a first supply voltage having a first supply voltage amplitude and a second supply voltage having a second supply voltage amplitude, the threshold 39 can be selected to be smaller than the smaller of the first supply voltage amplitude and the second supply voltage amplitude. The threshold 39 can be fixed or can be set by the LED converter 10 depending on the supply voltage amplitude of the supply voltage applied to the supply input 21.

[0077] The evaluation unit 24 can perform further evaluation to determine whether the control signal 45 is present at interface 22. The comparator circuit 23 can optionally be provided. An output signal 50 of the comparator circuit can have a first signal level if the AC signal is less than the threshold value. The output signal 50 of the comparator circuit 23 can have a second signal level, different from the first signal level, if the AC signal is greater than the threshold value. The output signal 50 of the comparator circuit has pulses 51 and 52. Depending on whether the AC signal 40 is an interference signal 41 with a smaller amplitude 42 or a control signal with an amplitude 46 that can correspond to the amplitude of the supply voltage, the output signal 50 has pulses 51 with a duration 43, indicating that the interference signal is present, or pulses 52 with a duration 47, indicating that the control signal is present.

[0078] Further implementations for detecting whether the control signal 45 is present at interface 22 are described with reference to Fig. 3 to Fig. 12 described.

[0079] When it is detected that the control signal 45 is present at interface 22, the evaluation unit 24 can control an output current, output voltage, output power, or another parameter of the LED converter 10. For example, a dimming operation can be performed, whereby a change in the dimming level depends on the duration 48 for which the control signal 45 is present at interface 22. An increase in the output current or output power can occur as long as the control signal 45 is present at interface 22.

[0080] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates the further processing of the alternating signal in an LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0081] It is possible to determine, at least during the positive half-waves of the alternating signal 40, the duration per half-wave for which the alternating signal exceeds the threshold value 39. This duration can also be expressed as T. TH These can be designated. For an alternating signal 40, which is an interference signal 41 and whose amplitude 42 is smaller than the amplitude of the supply voltage, the time duration T is TH smaller than for an alternating signal 40, which is a control signal 45 and whose amplitude 46 is equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage.

[0082] From the time period T TH The evaluation unit 24 can determine the amplitude of the AC signal in each half-wave either computationally or based on a characteristic map. For example, the amplitude of the AC signal can be determined as Vpeak=VTH / sin[π⋅((TP / 2)−TTH) / TP] where V peak denotes the amplitude of the alternating signal, V TH the threshold voltage is designated 39 and TP denotes the period of the alternating signal. If, as in system 1 of the Fig. 1. If the control signal has not only the same amplitude but also the same frequency as the supply voltage, the period of the alternating signal T must be P not be determined separately, but it can be used that the period of the alternating signal T P equal to the period of the supply voltage at the supply input 21.

[0083] The voltage amplitude V determined by the evaluation unit peak can be combined with a discrimination threshold V disc to be compared. The discrimination threshold V disc may depend on the supply voltage amplitude.

[0084] For example, a signal can be recognized as a control signal if Vpeak≥Vdisc, and can be detected as an interference signal if Vpeak <Vdisc.

[0085] The discrimination threshold can depend on the supply voltage amplitude V. peak,supp be determined as Vdisc=s⋅Vpeak,supp, where s is a factor equal to or less than one.

[0086] While the distinction between control signal and disturbance signal was explained with reference to equations (1) to (4) for the case where signal amplitudes are compared, the corresponding comparisons can of course also be made with any other arbitrary scaling. For example, the amplitude voltages can be rescaled to the nominal amplitudes of a sinusoidal signal in order to perform the operations described with reference to equations (1) to (4).

[0087] Fig. Figure 4 illustrates the further processing of the alternating signal in an LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0088] It is possible to determine, at least in the positive half-waves of the alternating signal 40, the duration of time T. TH For each half-wave, the alternating signal exceeds the threshold value 39. For an alternating signal 40, which is an interference signal 41 and whose amplitude 42 is smaller than the amplitude of the supply voltage, the duration T TH smaller than for an alternating signal 40, which is a control signal 45 and whose amplitude 46 is equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage.

[0089] The LED converter 10 can be configured to determine a comparison time period 37 computationally, based on a characteristic map, or by measurement. The comparison time period 37 can be determined for the supply voltage such that it specifies the duration per half-cycle of the supply voltage for which the supply voltage is greater than the threshold value 39.

[0090] The comparison period 37 can be determined, for example, as Tcomp=(TP / 2)−TP asin(VTH / Vpeak,supp) / π, where T comp The comparison period is the time during which the supply voltage per half-cycle is greater than the threshold value V. TH is, T P the period of the supply voltage is and V peak,supp The amplitude of the supply voltage.

[0091] For a sinusoidal supply voltage, the comparison time period 37 can be determined, for example, as Tcomp=(TP / 2)−TP asin[VTH / (Vsupp⋅√2)] / π, where V supp The square-averaged supply voltage at supply input 21 is...

[0092] The time period T determined by the evaluation unit TH , while the alternating signal at interface 22 is greater than the threshold value, the comparison time period T can be used. comp They are compared to detect a control signal.

[0093] For example, a change signal at interface 22 can be recognized as a control signal if TTH≥Tcomp, and can be detected as an interference signal if TTH <Tcomp

[0094] While the distinction between control signal and disturbance signal was explained with reference to equations (5) to (8) for the case where the duration of the alternating signal exceeding the threshold per half-cycle is compared with a reference duration dependent on the supply voltage at the supply input and the threshold, variations can also be implemented. For example, instead of the asine function in equation (5), a function approximating the asine function can be evaluated.

[0095] As with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. As described in section 4, the procedure for detecting a control signal at signal input 22 depends on the amplitude and / or period of the supply voltage. According to exemplary embodiments, a procedure for detecting a control signal is thus automatically adapted depending on the amplitude and / or period or frequency of the supply voltage at supply input 21.

[0096] The evaluation unit 24 can be configured to automatically determine a root mean square (RMS), amplitude, and / or period or frequency of the supply voltage. At least one parameter of a procedure for detecting the control signal can be automatically adapted depending on the determined RMS, amplitude, and / or period or frequency of the supply voltage. This at least one parameter can be incorporated into a calculation formula, as in equation (1), equation (5), or equation (6). The at least one parameter can also influence a discrimination threshold for distinguishing between control signals and interference signals, as in equations (2) to (4).

[0097] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method 60 according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 60 can be executed automatically by the LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0098] In step 61, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at interface 22 is greater than a threshold value TH per half-wave. A comparator circuit 23 can be used for this purpose, the output signal of which is further evaluated by the evaluation unit 24.

[0099] In step 62, it is determined, depending on the time duration, whether the alternating signal received at interface 22 is the control signal. For this purpose, it can be determined, depending on the time duration, whether the amplitude of the alternating signal at interface 22 is equal to the amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input. The determination can be carried out as described in [reference to...]. Fig. 1 to Fig. The procedure described in section 4 can be carried out. If it is determined that the alternating signal is not an interference signal, the procedure can return to step 61.

[0100] In step 63, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal when it is detected that the control signal is present at interface 22. A dimming function can be executed, depending on how long the control signal is present at interface 22. The output power or output current of the LED converter 10 can be selectively increased while the control signal is present at interface 22, for example, to implement a corridor function. The procedure can then return to step 61.

[0101] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method 70 according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 70 can be executed automatically by the LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0102] In step 71, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at interface 22 is greater than a threshold value TH per half-wave. This can be performed as described for step 61.

[0103] In step 72, the amplitude of the alternating signal is determined from the duration during which the alternating signal received at interface 22 exceeds the threshold value per half-cycle. This can be done computationally or based on a characteristic map. Regardless of whether the amplitude is determined by calculation or based on a characteristic map, it can depend on the threshold voltage 39 and the period of the supply voltage, as described in [reference to...]. Fig. 3 was described.

[0104] In step 73, to determine whether the AC signal is the control signal, the amplitude of the AC signal calculated from its duration is compared with the supply voltage amplitude. The supply voltage amplitude can be determined, for example, from the root mean square of the supply voltage. It can then be determined whether the amplitude calculated for the AC signal is equal to the supply voltage amplitude. If it is determined that the AC signal at the interface is not the control signal, the procedure can return to step 71.

[0105] In step 74, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal, if it is detected that the control signal is present at interface 22. This can be done, for example, as described for step 63.

[0106] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method 70 according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 70 can be executed automatically by the LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0107] In step 71, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at interface 22 is greater than a threshold value TH per half-wave. This can be performed as described for step 61.

[0108] In step 72, the amplitude of the alternating signal is determined from the duration during which the alternating signal received at interface 22 exceeds the threshold value per half-cycle. This can be done computationally or based on a characteristic map. Regardless of whether the amplitude is determined by calculation or based on a characteristic map, it can depend on the threshold voltage 39 and the period of the supply voltage, as described in [reference to...]. Fig. 3 was described.

[0109] In step 73, to determine whether the AC signal is the control signal, the amplitude of the AC signal calculated from its duration is compared with the supply voltage amplitude. The supply voltage amplitude can be determined, for example, from the root mean square of the supply voltage. It can then be determined whether the amplitude calculated for the AC signal is equal to the supply voltage amplitude. If it is determined that the AC signal at the interface is not the control signal, the procedure can return to step 71.

[0110] In step 74, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal, if it is detected that the control signal is present at interface 22. This can be done, for example, as described for step 63.

[0111] Fig. Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method 80 according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 80 can be executed automatically by the LED converter 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0112] In step 81, a comparison time is determined, i.e., the period during which the supply voltage received at supply input 21 is greater than a threshold value TH per half-cycle. The comparison time can be determined by measurement or calculation, as described in [reference to...]. Fig. 4 was described.

[0113] In step 82, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at interface 22 is greater than a threshold value TH per half-wave. This can be performed as described for step 61.

[0114] In step 83, to determine whether the alternating signal is the control signal, the duration during which the alternating signal at interface 22 exceeds the threshold per half-cycle is compared with the reference duration during which the supply voltage exceeds the threshold per half-cycle. It can then be determined whether the duration determined for the alternating signal is equal to the reference duration. If it is determined that the alternating signal at the interface is not the control signal, the procedure can return to step 81.

[0115] In step 84, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal, if it is detected that the control signal is present at interface 22. This can be done, for example, as described for step 63.

[0116] Fig. Figure 8 shows components of an LED converter 10 that can be used to perform a control signal detection procedure, which distinguishes the control signal from interference signals. In particular, the components can be configured so that the control signal detection procedure automatically adapts to different supply voltage amplitudes.

[0117] A comparator 25 can be connected to interface 22. A voltage V I A threshold value V can be used between the terminals of interface 22. TH The output signal of the comparator 25 can be fed to an optocoupler 26, which galvanically isolates an integrated semiconductor circuit 90 from the interface 22.

[0118] The integrated semiconductor circuit 90 can be configured to detect the amplitude and / or frequency of a supply voltage at the supply voltage input 21. The integrated semiconductor circuit 90 can include a circuit 91 for detecting the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage.

[0119] The integrated semiconductor circuit 90 can include a circuit 92 for distinguishing control and interference signals. The circuit 92 can, for example, be one of those referred to in Fig. 1 to Fig. The techniques described in section 7 are used to detect a control signal. The detection of the control signal is automatically adapted depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. For example, further processing based on a characteristic curve or computational analysis of the duration during which the AC signal at interface 22 is greater than the threshold value can depend on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. A criterion for discriminating between the control signal and the noise signal can be adapted depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage.

[0120] The integrated semiconductor circuit 90 can include a control circuit that controls or regulates the operation of the LED converter 10, depending on whether the circuit 92 identifies the AC signal as a control signal. For example, the control circuit can switch at least one controllable switch of a DC / DC converter 12 of the LED converter 10 in a clocked manner. The control circuit can modify the control of the controllable switch if the signal applied to the interface is a control signal, for example, to perform a dimming operation or to increase the output power or output current of the LED converter 10 in response to a detected movement.

[0121] Fig. Figure 9 shows components of an LED converter 10 that can be used to execute a control signal detection procedure, which distinguishes the control signal from interference signals. In particular, the components can be configured so that the control signal detection procedure automatically adapts to different supply voltage amplitudes.

[0122] Interface 22, to which an alternating signal V is connected IThe AC signal can be connected to a comparator circuit 102 via a rectifier 101. The comparator circuit 102 includes a Zener diode 103. The Zener diode 103 defines a threshold circuit, where the voltage threshold is determined by the breakdown voltage of the Zener diode 103. The Zener diode 103 only switches on when a predetermined threshold voltage is exceeded, so that only the peak values ​​above a predetermined threshold of one of the two half-waves of the AC voltage signal pass through the Zener diode 103. The resulting signal is fed to the base of a transistor 107 via a resistive resistor 104. An emitter of the transistor 107 is fed back to a base of the transistor 107 via a resistive resistor 106 and is also connected to a reference potential P0. This feedback transistor 107 ensures an approximately rectangular pulse shape.The output signal of the comparator circuit 202 is the signal at the collector of transistor 107.

[0123] The output signal of the comparator circuit can be transmitted to the integrated semiconductor circuit 90 via a further Zener diode 108 and an optocoupler 108.

[0124] Fig. Figure 10 is a flowchart of a process 110 that can be executed automatically by the LED converter 10. The detection of control signals is automatically adapted to the supply voltage amplitude and / or supply voltage frequency.

[0125] In step 111, the amplitude and / or frequency of the LED converter's supply voltage is detected. This can be performed, at least partially, by the integrated semiconductor circuit 90.

[0126] In step 112, at least one parameter of a procedure is set to a value that depends on the supply voltage amplitude and / or supply voltage frequency. This at least one parameter can be a term of an equation. The at least one parameter can define a characteristic curve used to determine the amplitude of an alternating signal from the duration during which an alternating signal at interface 22 exceeds a threshold value. The at least one parameter can be a threshold value for a threshold comparison.

[0127] In step 113, using the adapted procedure, it can be determined whether an alternating signal received at interface 22 is the control signal.

[0128] In the operating devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments, the operating device can be configured to be operated with different supply voltages, while control signals can still be reliably detected at interface 22.

[0129] While operating devices and methods have been described in detail according to exemplary embodiments with reference to the figures, modifications can be implemented in further exemplary embodiments. For example, while exemplary embodiments have been described in detail in which the duration for which the alternating signal exceeds a threshold value is used to distinguish between a control signal and an interference signal, techniques for adapting procedures for the detection of control signals can also be used when such a threshold comparison is not performed.

[0130] Operating devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments can be used in particular for operating luminaires comprising LEDs, but are not limited to this.

Claims

[1] Control gear for a light source (7), comprising: a supply inlet (21), a supply circuit (12) for supplying the light source (7), which is coupled to the supply input (21), and an interface (22) separate from the supply input (21), wherein the operating device (10) is configured to detect, depending on a time period (43, 47) in which an alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) exceeds a threshold value (39) during a half-cycle of the alternating signal (41, 45), whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is a control signal, wherein a supply voltage (30) received at the supply input (21) is independent of the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22). [2] Operating device according to claim 1, wherein the operating device (10) is configured to determine an amplitude (42, 46) of the alternating signal (41, 45) depending on the time duration (43, 47). [3] Operating device according to claim 2, wherein the operating device (10) is configured to recognize, depending on a comparison of the determined amplitude (42, 46) of the alternating signal (41, 45) with an amplitude (31) of a supply alternating voltage at the supply input (21), whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is the control signal. [4] Control device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (10) is configured to determine a further time period (37) during which a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21) exceeds the threshold value (39) during a half-cycle of the supply voltage (30). [5] Control device according to claim 4, wherein the control device (10) is configured to recognize, depending on a comparison of the time duration (43, 47) and the further time duration (37), whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is the control signal. [6] Control device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (10) comprises a comparator circuit (23) configured to compare the alternating signal (41, 45) with the threshold (39) and to generate an output signal (50) indicating a result of the comparison. [7] Operating device according to claim 6, wherein the operating device (10) comprises an electronic evaluation unit (24) for processing the output signal (50) of the comparator circuit (23). [8] Operating device according to claim 7, wherein the electronic evaluation device (24) is configured to adapt the processing of the output signal (50) of the comparator circuit (23) as a function of an amplitude (31) of a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21). [9] Control device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (10) is configured to control the supply circuit (12) depending on the alternating signal (41, 45) at the interface (22), if the alternating signal (41, 45) is the control signal. [10] Control device according to claim 9, wherein the control device (10) is configured to dim the light source (7) depending on the alternating signal (41, 45). [11] Control gear for a light source (7), comprising: a supply inlet (21), a supply circuit (12) for supplying the light source (7), which is coupled to the supply input (21), and an interface (22) separate from the supply input (21), wherein the operating device (10) is configured to adapt a procedure for detecting control signals (45) at the interface (22) depending on an amplitude (31) and / or a frequency of a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21), wherein a supply voltage (30) received at the supply input (21) is independent of the control signals (45) received at the interface (22). [12] Operating device according to claim 11, comprising an electronic evaluation device (24) configured to detect the amplitude (31) and / or the frequency of the supply voltage (30) and to perform the procedure for detecting control signals. [13] Operating device according to claim 12, wherein the electronic evaluation device (24) is configured to change a threshold comparison for the detection of control signals (45) depending on the amplitude (31) and / or the frequency of the supply voltage. [14] Operating device according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the electronic evaluation device (24) comprises an integrated semiconductor circuit (90). [15] System, encompassing: an operating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, a light source (7) which is connected to an output of the control gear (10) and which includes at least one light-emitting diode (8), a source (2) for a supply voltage which is connected to the supply input (21) of the operating device (10), and an actuating device (4) which is configured to connect the source (2) conductively to the interface (22) of the operating device (10). [16] System according to claim 15, wherein the actuating device (4) comprises a switch, a push button or a motion detector. [17] Method for operating a control gear (10) for a light source (7), wherein the control gear (10) comprises a supply input (21), a supply circuit (12) for supplying the light source (7) coupled to the supply input (21), and an interface (22) separate from the supply input (21), wherein the method comprises: Receiving an alternating signal (41, 45) at the interface (22), wherein a supply voltage (30) received at the supply input (21) is independent of the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22), and Executing a procedure to detect whether the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) is a control signal for controlling the operating device (10), wherein a time period (43, 47) in which an alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) exceeds a threshold value (39) during one half-wave of the alternating signal (41, 45) is determined, and Depending on the time duration (43, 47), it is recognized whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is the control signal for controlling the operating circuit. [18] Method according to claim 17, wherein the method is carried out with the operating device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10. [19] Method for operating a control gear (10) for a light source, wherein the control gear (10) comprises a supply input (21), a supply circuit (12) for supplying the light source coupled to the supply input (21), and an interface (22) separate from the supply input (21), the procedure includes: Receiving an alternating signal (41, 45) at the interface (22), wherein a supply voltage (30) received at the supply input (21) is independent of the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22), and Executing a procedure to detect whether the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) is a control signal for controlling the operating device (10), wherein the procedure is adapted depending on an amplitude (31) and / or a frequency of a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21). [20] Method according to claim 19, wherein the method is carried out with the operating device (10) according to any one of claims 11 to 14.

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