DIMMER

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a dimmer, namely a device for controlling the electrical power consumption of an electrical load, in particular an integrated or connectable lighting device. Dimmers are generally known and serve to vary electrical power. The invention further relates to a method for detecting the correct wiring of at least two parallel-connected, electrically isolated dimmer channels of a dimmer.

[0002] Power variation in dimmers can be achieved preferably by phase-cut control or by trailing-edge control. With phase-cut control, the current is switched on with a delay after the zero crossing of the AC voltage and flows until the next zero crossing. This is preferred for inductive load behavior. With trailing-edge control, on the other hand, the current is switched on immediately after the zero crossing and switched off again before the next zero crossing. This is preferred for capacitive load behavior. To generate the required control commands to its switching components, the dimmer has a main control unit.

[0003] More specifically, the invention relates to so-called multi-channel dimmers. These have several individual dimmers, each controlling a portion of the electrical load. To increase performance, these so-called dimmer channels can be switched on the output side in parallel, sequentially, or mixed. Several physical channels are interconnected, creating a powerful logical channel. The dimmer channels can be located in one device or in several devices.

[0004] However, precisely because of this interconnection, it is important that the outputs of the dimmer channels are largely synchronized. For example, if two channels are connected in parallel and the second channel switches too late (with leading edge control) or too early (with trailing edge control), the first channel will be more overloaded than if both switch incorrectly in synchronization. This can lead to excessive heating or failure of the first dimmer channel, or even to the dimmer shutting down.

[0005] In known multi-channel dimmers, each dimmer channel has its own channel control device, preferably a simple processor, as well as a measuring device for measuring the electricity in the channel, which can also be partially formed by this processor. Thanks to the measuring device, the channel control device receives the information necessary for detecting phase control or phase trailing edge control about the periodic behavior of the electricity in the channel. The control commands generated by the main control device are transmitted via a communication link to the channel control devices of the dimmer channels and implemented locally in accordance with the information about the periodic behavior of the electricity in the channel.

[0006] In particular, the complexity of the measuring devices leads to high development and production costs. Component tolerances or aging can also lead to inaccuracies in zero-crossing detection. The resulting timing differences then lead to non-synchronous switching of the dimmer channels and the problems described above. While replacing the device or recalibrating its components is possible, this is not without expense and potentially resulting in consequential damage due to operational disruption.

[0007] German patent DE102017213888B3 discloses a dimmer for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load, comprising at least two dimmer channels, wherein at least one dimmer channel is configured as a measuring dimmer channel for detecting electrical behavior. For synchronization of the dimmer channels, a channel communication connection, starting from the measuring dimmer channel, leads from one dimmer channel to the next.

[0008] The German patent specification DE102016209278B3 discloses a dimmer system for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load and a method for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load in a dimmer system, comprising a master control device and at least two slave dimmers, wherein the master control device outputs synchronization signals for synchronizing the respective outputs of the slave dimmers to the respective slave dimmers via a suitable communication connection, and wherein the slave dimmers are connected in parallel to provide a common controlled output for the connectable load.

[0009] Although state-of-the-art dimmers and dimmer systems are suitable for phase-synchronous switching of several parallel physical channels or slave dimmers, they still require manual checking to ensure that the parallel connection of the dimmer channels has been wired correctly.

[0010] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a dimmer, in particular a multi-channel dimmer, and a method for easily detecting wiring errors when connecting the channels of the dimmer.

[0011] The problem is solved by a dimmer according to claim 1.

[0012] In a universal dimmer with multiple channels, each channel can only control a specific load (e.g., 300W). If you want to control a higher load (e.g., 1000W), this is not possible with a single channel. For this reason, multiple channels are connected in parallel and thus jointly control a larger load. These parallel channels must therefore be controlled in parallel by the internal software and wired in parallel. Failure to perform one of these two actions can result in damage to the universal dimmer and the load. The present invention ensures that the parallel dimmer channels are controlled in parallel and also correctly wired in parallel. Furthermore, any error caused by incorrect channel wiring is immediately detected, preventing subsequent damage.

[0013] Each channel of the dimmer can have information about the times of the zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltage of the conductor connected to it, as well as the zero crossings of the adjacent channel connected in parallel. By measuring the phase shift of the two voltages, it is determined whether a significant phase shift exists (error: different conductors connected) or not (no error: same conductor connected). The invention reduces the probability of faulty wiring or incorrect parameterization in parallel operation. In the described error case, the error is automatically detected and reported by the dimmer (e.g., by an optical or acoustic signal, or by a corresponding error message on a dimmer display, or by a corresponding message to a central location (e.g., control center).This makes it more difficult for the dimmer and load to be damaged due to incorrect wiring / parameterization of parallel operation.

[0014] In one embodiment of the method described below, the dimmer can comprise at least two dimmer channels, each with a channel control device. At least one of the dimmer channels is a measuring dimmer channel because it comprises a measuring device for measuring the electricity in the channel. Its information about the behavior of the electricity in the measuring dimmer channel is transmitted to the channel control device of the measuring dimmer channel. The dimmer further comprises a main control device that can generate at least control commands for the dimmer channels, as well as a main communication connection that is at least suitable for transmitting such control commands from the main control device to the channel control device of a dimmer channel.The dimmer further comprises at least one channel communication connection from a first dimmer channel to a second dimmer channel, preferably with an element for galvanically isolating the first dimmer channel from the second dimmer channel, preferably with an optocoupler or alternatively with a transformer circuit. This channel communication connection transmits information, specifically at least about the behavior, preferably the periodic behavior, of the electricity in the measuring dimmer channel, from the measuring device or from the channel control device of a first dimmer channel to the channel control device of the second dimmer channel. The channel communication connection is also suitable for transmitting information in the opposite direction.

[0015] Because a communication connection between each channel control device of the dimmer channels and a main control device of the dimmer may be required anyway, preferably including galvanic isolation, channel communication connections between the channel control devices can be established with little additional effort, which can even replace part of the communication connections between the channel control devices and the main control device of the dimmer.

[0016] The information about the periodic behavior of the electricity in a measuring dimmer channel is an indication of the time at which the information is sent by the channel control device of the first dimmer channel, or preferably an indication of the time of at least one zero crossing of the voltage in the measuring dimmer channel. Based on stored data, the channel control device of the second dimmer channel can use the information about the periodic behavior of the electricity in the measuring dimmer channel to generate information about the periodic behavior of the electricity on site, which it can use to switch the electricity in the channel precisely and synchronously with the other dimmer channels. This stored data preferably contains a time value which represents an estimate of the time required for processing and transmitting the information from the measuring dimmer channel to the control device of the second dimmer channel.The time value is a constant for each dimmer channel and may contain values ​​over time for the generation of information by the measuring device, its transmission through the channel communication link or through the channel communication links from the measuring dimmer channel to the second dimmer channel, and its processing in the dimmer channels. It can be determined for each dimmer channel, either from a calibration with measurements on the dimmer or on other dimmers from the same series, or in a computer simulation. Preferably, the data is permanently stored in the channel control devices.

[0017] Because the signal is transmitted over a short distance without complex processing, the information about the periodic behavior of the electricity in the measurement dimmer channel reaches the channel control device of the second dimmer channel with little delay, but, especially when repeated and despite component aging, with almost the same delay. It is noteworthy that this also applies to the overall transmission delay when the signal is transmitted from the original channel control device of the measurement dimmer channel via several channel control devices and the channel communication links between them. Accordingly, the first dimmer channel to a channel communication link can be different from the measurement dimmer channel.

[0018] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the channel communication connection can also transmit at least control commands from the main control device of the first dimmer channel to the channel control device of the second dimmer channel. Thus, the instructions for switching behavior are also distributed to multiple dimmer channels via the same path, eliminating the need for direct communication connections to the main control device of the dimmer. This can also be done unidirectionally for cost reasons, although bidirectional communication offers advantages.

[0019] In one variant of the invention, there is at least one channel communication connection between the channel control device of the measuring dimmer channel and each channel control device of at least two dimmer channels. Thus, the measuring dimmer channel has a direct channel communication connection with multiple control devices of other dimmer channels. This may be implemented as as many individual channel communication connections, or as a single channel communication connection for bus communication or the like, according to which telegrams are received at the destination based on an individual address or a group address.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, even the main control device is a channel control device.

[0021] To determine whether the respective zero crossing times of the sinusoidal AC voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel are essentially synchronous, the dimmer is equipped with a suitable evaluation unit (e.g., a microcontroller with appropriate software or firmware) for evaluating information about the electrical behavior in the dimmer channels. The evaluation unit is advantageously located or integrated in the measuring dimmer channel and / or in the main control device.

[0022] In a non-claimed embodiment, the measuring dimmer channel is configured to detect whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels are substantially synchronous. If the sinusoidal alternating voltages are substantially synchronous, synchronous switching of the dimmer channels is ensured, and correct parallel wiring of the dimmer channels is detected. To detect this, one of the dimmer channels can be equipped as a measuring dimmer channel with the appropriate measuring and evaluation means. The measuring dimmer channel is in a channel communication connection with the other parallel dimmer channels.

[0023] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that each dimmer channel is configured to detect whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal AC voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels are substantially synchronous. If the sinusoidal AC voltages are substantially synchronous, synchronous switching of the dimmer channels is ensured, and correct parallel wiring of the dimmer channels is detected. To detect this, each of the parallel dimmer channels can be equipped as a measuring dimmer channel with the appropriate measuring and evaluation devices.

[0024] According to the invention, each dimmer channel is designed as a measuring dimmer channel with a respective measuring device and a respective communication connection to the main control device, wherein the main control device is configured to detect whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel are substantially synchronous. Based on the information provided by the dimmer channels about the respective periodic behavior of the electricity on site, the main control device detects whether synchronous switching of the dimmer channels and correct parallel wiring of the dimmer channels are present. For this purpose, the main control device is equipped with corresponding evaluation means (e.g. means for comparing the information provided). E.g. a microprocessor with corresponding software or firmware.

[0025] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that, upon detecting whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels are not synchronized, a corresponding indicator (red LED, buzzing noise, display message, etc.) is activated on the dimmer. This immediately notifies a user (e.g., an installer) of any error or malfunction when connecting the dimmer.

[0026] A further embodiment relates to a dimmer for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load, in particular an LED light, with at least two parallel-connected, galvanically isolated dimmer channels, each with a channel control device, wherein each of the dimmer channels is designed as a measuring dimmer channel, each with a measuring device that is at least suitable for zero-crossing detection of the current and / or the voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel; a main control device that is configured to receive information about the zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels from the respective channel control devices via suitable communication connections, and that is further configured to compare the information about the zero crossings of the respective dimmer channels with each other, and that is further configuredTo generate control commands for the dimmer channels, whereby the control commands are transmitted from the main control device to the channel control devices of the dimmer channels via suitable communication connections. The main control device is configured to detect whether the zero crossings of the dimmer channels assigned for parallel operation are essentially synchronous. Parallel operation of dimmer channels means that the dimmer channels electrically switch to a common load and are wired accordingly. Therefore, the parallel dimmer channels must switch synchronously.

[0027] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that the main control device in the dimmer is embodied as a separate component (e.g., a microcontroller). With this embodiment, the channel control units or the channel control devices can be designed very cost-effectively (lean). This embodiment enables simple command communication and a simple power supply for the main control device and the channel control devices.

[0028] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that the main control device is integrated into a correspondingly configured channel control device of a dimmer channel. This embodiment eliminates the need for a microcontroller. Furthermore, this embodiment enables direct and thus fast communication between the dimmer channels.

[0029] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that a channel control device of a dimmer channel is configured as the main control device, the master. In this embodiment, the channel control devices of the dimmer channels are essentially identical. It is negotiated which of the channel control devices is the master (e.g., based on the production number or ID number). The master is advantageously determined automatically during commissioning or when loading the firmware.

[0030] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that the detection of whether the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels are essentially synchronous occurs by comparing the respective times of the zero crossings or by comparing the respective phase angles. This is advantageously done by measuring the time difference between the zero crossings. In a 50 Hz system, for example, there is a time difference of approximately 6.67 ms between two phases of a three-phase system, which corresponds to a phase angle of 120 degrees. In a 60 Hz system, for example, there is a time difference of approximately 5.55 ms.

[0031] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that, upon detection that the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels are not synchronized, a corresponding indicator (red LED, buzzing noise, display message, etc.) can be activated on the dimmer. A reliable message can be output, for example, if the measured time difference or a measured phase angle differs by + / - 5% from the above-mentioned values.

[0032] The problem is further solved by a method according to claim 3. The method can be carried out, for example, during commissioning of the dimmer. Advantageously, the method is carried out automatically (or necessarily) during commissioning of the dimmer as a quality assurance measure.

[0033] The invention and advantageous embodiments of the present invention are explained using the following figures as examples. They show: FIG 1 shows the functional distribution of a first exemplary multi-channel dimmer, FIG 2 shows the functional distribution of a second exemplary multi-channel dimmer, FIG 3 shows simplified circuits of two dimmer channels and the associated channel communication connection for the second exemplary multi-channel dimmer from FIG. 2, FIG 4 shows an arrangement for a third exemplary multi-channel dimmer, FIG 5 shows an arrangement for a fourth exemplary multi-channel dimmer, FIG 6 shows an arrangement for a fifth exemplary multi-channel dimmer, FIG 7 shows an arrangement for a sixth exemplary multi-channel dimmer, FIG 8 shows an arrangement for a seventh exemplary multi-channel dimmer, and FIG 9 shows an exemplary flow chart for a method for detecting the correct wiring of at least two parallel-connected, galvanically isolated dimmer channels of a dimmer, in particular a universal dimmer.

[0034] Figure 1shows the functional distribution of a first exemplary multi-channel dimmer D connected to the supply network N, L1. The multi-channel dimmer D has several galvanically isolated dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx, each with a channel control device S1, S2, Sx. The dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx are connected in parallel on the output side to the load L via terminals A1, A2, Ax, so that each can supply a portion of the current to it.

[0035] The dimmer D starts due to an external command B. A main control device H generates control commands which are sent via a communication connection V to the channel control device S1 of the dimmer channel K1.

[0036] The dimmer channel K1 contains a measuring device M1 that is suitable for generating information about the electrical behavior at a point in the channel, specifically information about the zero crossing of the voltage. The dimmer channel K1 is therefore also called a measuring dimmer channel. During operation, a communication link transmits such information from the measuring device M1 to the channel control device S1.

[0037] Starting from the measuring dimmer channel K1, a channel communication connection V12, V23, V(x-1)x leads from one dimmer channel to the next dimmer channel. These channel communication connections V12, V23, V(x-1)x are preferably suitable for transmitting information about the electrical behavior in the measuring dimmer channel K1 to the channel control device S2, Sx of the next dimmer channel K2, Kx, specifically from the channel control device S1, S2 of one dimmer channel K1, K2 to the channel control device S2, Sx of the other dimmer channel K2, Kx. Furthermore, these channel communication connections V12, V23, V(x-1)x can also transmit the control commands from the main control device H.

[0038] The communication connections V, V12, V23, V(x-1)x between the galvanically isolated main control device H and the dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx each contain an optocoupler on both sides.

[0039] Figure 2shows a second example of a multi-channel dimmer. In the variant in the Figure 2 The channel communication connections V12, V23, V(x-1)x between the dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx link the measuring device M with the respective channel control devices S1, S2, Sx for very real-time transmission. The channel communication connections V12, V23, V(x-1)x are unidirectional, which is why separate communication connections V deliver the control commands from the main control device H to each dimmer channel K1, K2, Kx and return any feedback.

[0040] Figure 3 shows measuring dimmer channel K1, dimmer channel K2 and their channel communication connection V12 of the second exemplary multi-channel dimmer according to Figure 2, where the circuits of the measuring device M1, the channel communication connection V12, and the dimmer channel K2 are shown in simplified form. An operational amplifier N11 of the measuring device M1 converts the 230-volt mains voltage into a signal that is easier to process. A comparator N12 of the measuring device M1 analyzes this signal for zero crossings. The zero crossings are passed directly to the channel control device S1 and also to an optocoupler in the channel communication connection V12. For the purpose of galvanic isolation, the optocoupler contains a light-emitting diode and a light-sensitive resistor, which switches a current via the resistor R in the dimmer channel K2. The optocoupler thus transmits the information about the zero crossings to the channel control device S2 and to the next channel communication connection with minimal delay.

[0041] The measuring device M1 itself can also act as an evaluation unit, i.e., it can perform or provide evaluation functions such as comparing phase angles and / or comparing the times of zero crossings. This means that the functionalities of the measuring device M1 and the evaluation unit AE1 can be integrated into one component or part. However, the evaluation functionalities can also be implemented in a separate evaluation unit AE1.

[0042] In a further variant of the invention (not shown), the control commands of the main control device H are transmitted in a similar way to the variant of Figure 1 via a single communication link V to the channel control device S1 of the dimmer channel K1. However, the channel control device S1 forwards them to the next dimmer channel K2 via the channel communication links V12, as in the variant of the Figure 2 . But for this purpose, those in which Figure 3The channel communication connections V12, V23, V(x-1)x outlined above, for example, are supplemented with a switch and a resistor in series with ground upstream of the LED. The switch, for example a transistor, is switched between conducting and blocking by an output of the respective channel control device Sx. When the respective comparator Nx2 energizes the LED, the switch can thus impose small voltage steps on the signal, which lead to small intensity steps in the light from the LED. The corresponding resistance steps in the light-sensitive resistor on the receiver side can be detected by a simple voltmeter. However, they do not trigger zero-crossing detection there. These steps thus encode the control commands of the main control device H and are passed on by the voltmeter to the respective channel control device Sx+1.

[0043] To detect whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel K1, K2, Kx are essentially synchronous, the exemplary dimmers D are to be Figure 1 or according to Figure 2 Equipped with a suitable evaluation unit AE1, AE2 (e.g., microcontroller with appropriate software or firmware) for evaluating information about the electrical behavior in the dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx. The evaluation is performed, for example, by comparing the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx or by analyzing the respective phase shift angles or the phase difference.

[0044] Advantageously, the evaluation unit AE1, AE2 is arranged or integrated in the measuring dimmer channel M1 and / or in the main control device H.

[0045] An advantageous embodiment of the invention is that each dimmer channel K1, K2, Kx is designed as a measuring dimmer channel M1 with a respective measuring device M1 and a respective communication connection V to the main control device H, wherein the main control device H is configured to detect whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel K1, K2, Kx are substantially synchronous. Based on the information provided by the parallel dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx about the respective periodic behavior of the electricity on site, the main control device H detects whether synchronous switching of the dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx and correct parallel wiring of the dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx are present. The main control device H is equipped with corresponding evaluation means AE2 (e.g. means for comparing the supplied information).Microprocessor with appropriate software or firmware. In principle, each dimmer channel K1, K2, Kx can have an evaluation unit AE1.

[0046] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is that, upon detecting whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels K1, K2, Kx are not synchronous, a corresponding indicator I (red LED, buzzing noise, display message, etc.) is generated on the dimmer D. This immediately notifies a user (e.g., an installer) of an error or malfunction when connecting the dimmer D.

[0047] Figure 4 shows an arrangement for a third exemplary multi-channel dimmer D. In the exemplary multi-channel dimmer D according to Figure 4is a universal dimmer. With a universal dimmer with multiple channels DK1 - DKn, each channel can only control a specific load LA1 - LAn (e.g. 300W). If you want to control a higher load (e.g. 1000W), this is not possible with a single channel. For this reason, multiple channels DK1 - DKn are connected in parallel and thus jointly control a larger load. These parallel channels DK1 - DKn must therefore be controlled in parallel by the internal software and wired in parallel. Failure to carry out one of these two actions may result in damage to the universal dimmer and the load. The universal dimmer D comprises a main control device H (preferably a suitably configured microcontroller), which is at least suitable for generating control commands for the dimmer channels DK1 - DKn.Control commands can be transmitted from the main control device H to the corresponding channel control devices of the respective dimmer channels DK1 - DKn via the communication link V. The parallel-connected, galvanically isolated (GT) dimmer channels DK1 - DKn are advantageously each equipped with a channel control device (simple processor or appropriately configured microprocessor). Information is transmitted between two adjacent dimmer channels via channel communication links KV. At least one dimmer channel DK1 comprises a corresponding measuring device M1 and a corresponding evaluation unit AE1. The evaluation unit AE1 is configured to detect whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel DK1 - DKn are essentially synchronous.Optionally, additional or even all dimmer channels DK1 - DKn can be equipped with a measuring device M1 and an evaluation unit AE1. The main control unit H can also include a correspondingly configured evaluation unit AE2 to detect whether the respective zero crossing times of the sinusoidal AC voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel DK1 - DKn are essentially synchronous. The dimmer channels DK1 - DKn are connected on the output side to supply power via terminals AK1 - AKn to the corresponding load LA1 - LAn.

[0048] Although the Dimmer D is a complete device, it has independent and galvanically isolated (GT) channels DK1 - DKn (= load outputs). Therefore, different phases L1, L2, and L3 can be connected to these (e.g., L1 to channel DK1, L2 to channel DK2, etc.) to control independent loads LA1, LA2, and LAn. Each channel DK1 - DKn can control a specific maximum load (e.g., 300W).

[0049] However, it is also possible to bundle two or more channels in software to jointly control a load that is greater than the maximum load of a single channel DK1 - DKn (e.g., 1000W). If this is the case, all channels DK1 - DKn must, of course, be connected to the same phase (see dimmer arrangement according to Figure 5 ).

[0050] Figure 5 shows an arrangement for a fourth exemplary multi-channel dimmer D in which all channels DK1 - DKn are connected to the same phase L1. It is thus possible on the software side (through appropriate phase or zero-crossing synchronization, e.g., through appropriate synchronization signals from control unit H to channels DK1 - DKn) to bundle two or more channels DK1 - DKn to jointly control a load L that is greater than the maximum load of a single channel DK1 - DKn.

[0051] If, however, different phases are connected to bundled channels (see dimmer arrangement according to Figure 6 ), both the dimmer and the load may be damaged.

[0052] Figure 6 shows an arrangement for a fifth exemplary multi-channel dimmer D, where different phases L1, L2, L3 are connected to bundled channels DK1 - DKn. In the connection arrangement according to Figure 6 both the dimmer D and the load L (e.g. a lamp) can be damaged.

[0053] Therefore, it is necessary to detect and report faulty wiring (= different phases L1, L2, L3 on bundled channels DK1 - DKn).

[0054] The present invention detects and reports such faulty wiring.

[0055] Except for the load connection (wiring), the Figures 4 to 6 the same exemplary multi-channel dimmer D, which can also be used as a universal dimmer.

[0056] Figure 7 shows an arrangement for a sixth exemplary multi-channel dimmer. For the exemplary multi-channel dimmer D according to Figure 7 It is also a universal dimmer. With a universal dimmer with multiple channels DKa - DKx, each channel can only control a specific load (e.g. 300W). If you want to control a higher load L (e.g. 1000W), this is not possible with a single channel. For this reason, multiple channels DKa - DKx are connected in parallel and thus jointly control a larger load L (e.g. a light). These parallel channels DKa - DKx must therefore be controlled in parallel by the internal software and wired in parallel. Failure to carry out one of these two actions may result in damage to the universal dimmer D and the load L.

[0057] The exemplary dimmer D for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load L, in particular an LED lamp, according to Figure 7 includes: at least two parallel-connected, galvanically GT-isolated dimmer channels DKa - DKx, each with a channel control device SE1 - SEx, wherein each of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx is designed as a measuring dimmer channel, each with a measuring device M1, which is at least suitable for zero-crossing detection NDE of the current and / or the voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel DKa - DKx;a main control device H, which is configured to receive information about the zero crossings ND of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx from the respective channel control devices SE1 - SEx via suitable communication connections V, and which is further configured to compare the information about the zero crossings (ND) of the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx with one another, and which is further configured to generate control commands for the dimmer channels DKa - DKx, wherein the control commands can be transmitted from the main control device H to the channel control devices SE1 - SEx of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx via the suitable communication connections V; wherein the main control device H is configured to detect whether the zero crossings of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx assigned for parallel operation are substantially synchronous.

[0058] For the exemplary dimmer D according to Figure 7 The main control device H in the dimmer D is implemented as a separate component (e.g., a microcontroller). With this design, the channel control units SE1 - SEx or the channel control devices can be designed very cost-effectively (lean). This design enables simple command communication and a simple power supply for the main control device H and the channel control devices SE1 - SEx.

[0059] For the exemplary dimmer D according to Figure 7The detection of whether the respective zero crossings ND of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx are essentially synchronous is carried out by comparing the respective times of the zero crossings ND or by comparing the respective phase angles in the main control device H. This is advantageously carried out by measuring the time difference of the zero crossings. In a 50 Hz system, for example, there is a time difference of approximately 6.67 ms between two phases of a three-phase system, which corresponds to a phase angle of 120 degrees. In a 60 Hz system, for example, there is a time difference of approximately 5.55 ms.If it is detected that the respective times of the respective zero crossings ND of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx are not synchronized, a corresponding indicator I (red LED, buzzing noise, display message, etc.) can be activated on the dimmer D. A reliable message can be output by indicator I, for example, if the measured time difference or a measured phase angle differs by + / - 10%, in particular by + / - 5%, from the above-mentioned values.

[0060] Figure 8 shows an arrangement for a seventh exemplary multi-channel dimmer D. In the exemplary multi-channel dimmer D according to Figure 8It is also a universal dimmer. With a universal dimmer with multiple channels DKa - DKx, each channel can only control a specific load (e.g. 300W). If you want to control a higher load L (e.g. 1000W), this is not possible with a single channel. For this reason, multiple channels DKa - DKx are connected in parallel and thus jointly control a larger load L (e.g. a light). These parallel channels DKa - DKx must therefore be controlled in parallel by the internal software and wired in parallel. Failure to carry out one of these two actions may result in damage to the universal dimmer D and the load L.

[0061] The exemplary dimmer D for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load L, in particular an LED lamp, according to Figure 8comprises: at least two parallel-connected, galvanically GT-isolated dimmer channels DKa - DKx, each with a channel control device SE1 - SEx, wherein each of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx is designed as a measuring dimmer channel, each with a measuring device M1, which is at least suitable for zero-crossing detection NDE of the current and / or the voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel DKa - DKx;a main control device H, which is configured to receive information about the zero crossings ND of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx from the respective channel control devices SE1 - SEx via suitable communication connections KV, and which is further configured to compare the information about the zero crossings (ND) of the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx with one another, and which is further configured to generate control commands for the dimmer channels DKa - DKx, wherein the control commands are transmittable from the main control device H to the channel control devices SE1 - SEx of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx via the suitable communication connections KV; wherein the main control device H is configured to detect whether the zero crossings of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx assigned for parallel operation are substantially synchronous.

[0062] For the exemplary dimmer D according to Figure 8 The functionality of the main control device can be integrated into a correspondingly configured channel control device SE1 - SEx of a dimmer channel DKa - DKx. This configuration eliminates the need for a microcontroller. Furthermore, this configuration enables direct and thus fast communication between the channel control devices SE1 - SEx of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx.

[0063] For the exemplary dimmer D according to Figure 8A channel control device SE1 - SEx of one of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx can be configured as the main control device, i.e., as the master. In this configuration, the channel control devices SE1 - SEx of the dimmer channels DKa - DKx are essentially identical. It is negotiated which of the channel control devices SE1 - SEx is the master (master dimmer channel) (e.g., depending on the production number or ID number). The master is advantageously determined automatically during commissioning or when loading the firmware.

[0064] For the exemplary dimmer D according to Figure 8In the master dimmer channel, it is detected whether the respective zero crossings ND of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx are essentially synchronous by comparing the respective times of the zero crossings ND or by comparing the respective phase angles. If it is detected that the respective times of the respective zero crossings ND of the sinusoidal alternating currents and / or alternating voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels DKa - DKx are not synchronous, a corresponding indicator I can be activated on dimmer D. In principle, a corresponding message can also be output to a central location within a building automation system.

[0065] Figure 9shows an exemplary flow chart for a method not claimed in the general public for detecting the correct wiring of at least two parallel-connected galvanically isolated dimmer channels of a dimmer, in particular a universal dimmer, (VS1) wherein, for each dimmer channel, information is provided on the times of the zero crossings of the sinusoidal alternating voltage of the conductor connected to it, as well as information on the zero crossings of the parallel-connected adjacent channel; and (VS2) wherein, by measuring the phase shift of the two voltages, it is determined whether or not a significant phase shift exists, wherein a detected phase shift represents faulty wiring. Detected faulty wiring is advantageously indicated or reported visually (flashing light and / or message text output on a display on the dimmer housing) and / or acoustically (e.g., warning tone) by the dimmer.

[0066] Through the procedure according to. Figure 9 Damage to both the dimmer D and the load (e.g. a lamp) caused by faulty wiring can be avoided.

[0067] Each dimmer channel has information about the zero crossing times of the sinusoidal AC voltage of the conductor connected to it, as well as the zero crossing times of the adjacent parallel channel. By measuring the phase shift of the two voltages, it is possible to determine whether a significant phase shift is present (error: different conductors connected) or not (no error: same conductor connected).

[0068] The invention reduces the likelihood of faulty wiring or incorrect parameterization in parallel operation of a dimmer. In the described error case, the dimmer automatically detects and reports the error. Damage to the dimmer and the load due to faulty wiring / parameterization in parallel operation is thus made more difficult or even prevented. Reference symbol

[0069] DDimmer BCommand HMain control device VCommunication connection K1 - Kx, DK1 - DKn, DKa - DKxDimmer channel S1 - Sx, SE1 - SExChannel control device M1Measuring device N11Operational amplifier N12Comparator AE1, AE2Evaluation unit RResistance V12, V23, V(x-1)x, KVChannel communication connection A1 - Ax, AK1 - Akn, ASK1 - ASKxConnection terminal L, LA1 - LAnLoad NNeutral conductor L1, L2, L3, LTOuter conductor (phase) L_DimmDimming load GTGalvanic isolation NDEZero crossing detection NDEZero crossing IIndicator VS1 - VS2Process step

Claims

1. Dimmer (D) for controlling the power consumption of a connectable load, in particular an LED light, having two parallel-connected, electrically isolated dimmer channels (K1, K2), namely a first dimmer channel (K1) and an adjacent second dimmer channel (K2) each with a channel control device (S1, S2), wherein each of the dimmer channels (K1, K2) is connected on the output side in parallel via respective terminals (A1, A2) to the load (L), each of the two dimmer channels (K1, K2) is configured as a measurement dimmer channel (K1) and in each case comprises a measurement device (M1) which is at least suitable for generating information about the behaviour of the electricity at a location in the respective dimmer channel (K1, K2), wherein the information contains an indication about the time of at least one zero crossing of an AC voltage in the respective dimmer channel (K1, K2), a main control device (H), which is at least suitable for generating control commands for the two parallel-connected, electrically isolated dimmer channels (K1, K2), and wherein each of the two dimmer channels is connected with a respective communication link (V) to the main control device (H), which in each case is at least suitable for transmitting such control commands from the main control device (H) to the respective channel control device (S1) of the measurement dimmer channel (K1), wherein the main control device (H) is set up to obtain the information via the communication links (V), wherein the main control device (H) is set up to identify whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal AC voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel (K1, K2) are substantially synchronous, characterised in that the main control device (H) is configured, by measuring a phase shift of the two AC voltages, to establish whether or not an appreciable phase shift is present, wherein an identified phase shift represents incorrect wiring .

2. Dimmer according to claim 1, wherein in the event of identification that the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal AC voltages applied to the respective dimmer channels (K1, K2) are not synchronous, a corresponding indicator (I) is activatable at the dimmer.

3. Method for identifying correct wiring of two parallel-connected electrically isolated dimmer channels (K1, K2) of a dimmer, in particular a universal dimmer, wherein, for each dimmer channel (K1, K2), information about the times of the zero crossings of the sinusoidal AC voltage of the conductor connected thereto is provided as well as information about the zero crossings of the adjacent, parallel-connected channel; wherein the information about the times of the zero crossings of the sinusoidal AC voltage of the conductor connected thereto is provided as well as information about the zero crossings of the adjacent, parallel-connected channel via a direct communication link (V12) between the dimmer channels (K1, K2); wherein an evaluation of the information about the behaviour of the electricity in the dimmer channels (K1, K2) takes place by way of a suitable evaluation unit (AE1, AE2) of the dimmer channels (K1, K2), in order to identify whether the respective times of the respective zero crossings of the sinusoidal AC voltage applied to the respective dimmer channel (K1, K2) are substantially synchronous; characterised in that by means of the evaluation, a phase shift of the two AC voltages is established, and whether or not an appreciable phase shift is present, wherein an identified phase shift represents incorrect wiring.