OPERATING DEVICE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an operating device according to claim 1.

[0002] The applicant has been developing and manufacturing control gear for luminaires for some time. Control gear for luminaires comprises a power supply unit that allows connection to a mains voltage, typically a 220V, 380V, or, for example, 48V power source. The control gear may also include a transformer if there is a need to transform the supplied mains voltage.

[0003] The control gear, with its power supply unit, serves to supply at least one LED with operating voltage in order to operate the LED.

[0004] A control device, manufactured by the applicant for many years but not documented in printed form, has input contacts for receiving control signals for the luminaire. The control signals present at the input contacts are transmitted to a controller within the control device, which can understand or interpret the control signals present at the input contacts and convert them into control values ​​for the LEDs. Based on the incoming control signals, the controller can supply the LEDs with operating voltage, in particular in such a way that the LEDs assume a specific dimming or switching state, which is transmitted as dimming value information via the incoming control signals.

[0005] The applicant has been manufacturing different control devices for various types of control signals for some time. For example, digital control signals are known, which are subject to the DALI protocol, a common and standard control protocol in the field of lighting control.

[0006] Furthermore, the applicant is aware of operating devices designed to process analog control signals, such as phase-angle or phase-cut signals. Such signals are generated, for example, by analog dimmers.

[0007] Finally, the applicant is also aware of operating devices that can process push-button-generated signals. These are signals generated by, for example, a wall-mounted push button, which, when briefly pressed, switches the light off or on, and, when held down for a longer period, allows the dimming level to be adjusted.

[0008] The known operating devices are specifically designed differently depending on the different types of control signals and have correspondingly different electronic elements in order to be able to process the signals.

[0009] Furthermore, control gear has become known that, as universal control gear, provides different connection terminals for different types of control signals. For example, a first pair of connection terminals or input contacts may be provided for use when connecting electrical lines that transmit DALI control signals, and a second pair of connection terminals or input contacts for connecting corresponding lines that transmit, for example, phase-angle control signals. When connecting the luminaire, the installer or electrician can select and connect the appropriate terminals of the control gear on-site, knowing the intended method of control.

[0010] EP 2 375 868 A2 discloses an electronic ballast with an interface device. Depending on the received signal structure, the interface device is capable of placing a signal on a first signal path and assigning it to a first input terminal of a controller, while simultaneously blocking a second signal path. Alternatively, it can feed the signal via a second signal path to a second control input of a control unit, while simultaneously blocking the first signal path.

[0011] DE 10 2010 043 013 A1 discloses a lighting device that is capable of processing a combination signal of an analog signal and a digital signal received from a dimmer.

[0012] US patent 9,949,328 B1 discloses a circuit for a dimmable LED capable of processing pulse-width modulated signals.

[0013] Starting from the operating device described at the outset, the object of the invention is to further develop the applicant's known operating device in such a way as to achieve simplified and safe handling.

[0014] The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 1.

[0015] The principle of the invention essentially consists of assigning a signal detection unit to the control device. The signal detection unit is arranged downstream of the input contacts in the direction of signal flow. Different types of control signals can be applied to the input contacts. The signal detection unit is able to recognize the type of control signals present at the input contacts. According to the invention, different types of control signals can be applied to the input contacts. The majority of the different types of control signals according to the present patent application are referred to as a group of different control signals. The group comprises at least two different types of control signals. A first type of control signal can, for example, comprise digital control signals, and a second type of control signal can comprise analog control signals.The group can also include different types of analog control signals and / or different types of digital control signals.

[0016] The control device of the type according to the invention is universally designed and allows input contacts to be assigned any connections or lines. Therefore, any type of control signal can be applied to the control device.

[0017] The signal detection unit can transmit information to the control unit indicating what type of control signals have been detected. Based on this detection of the type of control signals, and particularly depending on the information received from the signal detection unit, the control unit can then supply the LED or multiple LEDs with operating voltage.

[0018] The control device has a two-stage design. A first signal detection stage – namely the signal detection unit – checks what type of control signals are present at the input contacts. Information about the detected type is then transmitted to the controller.

[0019] In a second stage, the control system can then – knowing the type of control signals applied – calculate the dimming value and convert the control signal applied to the input contacts into a control value for the LED.

[0020] According to the invention, a universally applicable control device is provided which allows the input contacts to be assigned completely different types of control signals. This reduces the design complexity of the control device compared to the prior art. Furthermore, according to the invention, the handling of the control device can be simplified, for example, by eliminating the need to select input contacts or terminals when connecting the device; instead, the available input contacts can be used regardless of the type of control signal.

[0021] Furthermore, it is no longer necessary to develop, manufacture and keep available different operating devices adapted to the different types of control signals, but rather a single, universally applicable operating device can be used for completely different types of control signals.

[0022] A dimming value according to the present patent application describes an operating state or dimming state of the LED or multiple LEDs that produces a specific brightness value or in which the LED generates a specific luminous flux. The dimming value can be between 0% and 100% of the maximum brightness. The term dimming value also includes switching states of the LED, such as an on-power state and a fully illuminated state.

[0023] The present invention is described with reference to an operating device which has at least one LED as a light source. This takes into account the fact that currently only LEDs are practically suitable as light sources. OLEDs are also considered LEDs within the meaning of this patent application.

[0024] Other light sources, for example laser light sources or any other light sources suitable for use in combination with the invention, are also referred to as LEDs in this patent application for the sake of readability.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control system converts the received control signals into a dimming value for the LED, depending on the information received, and supplies the LED with operating voltage knowing the dimming value.

[0026] For example, if a first type of control signal, e.g., a digital control signal according to the DALI protocol, is present at the input contacts, and a dimming value of 50% is transmitted via the control signal, the control unit – after receiving information from the signal detection unit that the incoming control signal is a DALI signal – can convert this signal into a control value, which is output as operating voltage or output current to supply power to the LED, such that the desired dimming state – 50% of the maximum brightness – is assumed by the LED.

[0027] The invention also encompasses situations where, as a result of processing the control signals present at the input contacts by the signal detection unit, a signal conversion or signal modification occurs. For example, with the aid of a rectifier, an alternating voltage present at the input contacts can be converted into a pulse train consisting exclusively of positive voltages. It is important that the control unit recognizes different types of control signals and can calculate the desired dimming value from the signal supplied by the signal detection unit, and then, based on this, controls the LED accordingly to set the dimming level.

[0028] Signal processing of the incoming control signal by the signal detection unit can be achieved, for example, using a rectifier, a current source, and a Zener diode. This enables, for instance, the processing of incoming digital and analog control signals into purely digital signals, which can then be further processed by a computing unit, in particular a processor, the signal detection unit, or the control unit of the operating device.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the signal detection unit performs a measurement of the signal duration and / or a measurement of signal transmissions and / or a measurement of signal edges in the sense of level increases or level decreases to identify the type of signal. The signal detection unit can perform an examination of the incoming signals against one or more criteria, which ensures that each different type of control signal can be unambiguously identified.

[0030] The signal detection unit can, for example, check, measure, or count signal lengths, signal waveforms, voltage levels, high or low states, pulse widths, pulse frequencies, or similar parameters, and compare them with stored criteria or values. If, as a result of a check by the signal detection unit, it is determined that a specific criterion uniquely identifying a type of control signal is present or fulfilled for a control signal present at the input contacts, the signal detection unit can transmit the information about the type of control signal to the controller.

[0031] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the group comprises different types of control signals, e.g. digital control signals and analog control signals.

[0032] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the group of different types of control signals includes control signals according to the DALI protocol.

[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the group of different types of control signals comprises phase-angle control signals or phase-cut control signals.

[0034] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the group of different types of control signals includes button-generated control signals.

[0035] The last three listed types of control signals are the most common analog control signals. However, the invention also encompasses other types of control signals that are not explicitly listed here.

[0036] The invention also encompasses situations where, after examining the type of control signal present at the input contacts, the signal detection unit determines that it could not recognize the signal type. In such cases, it may also be provided that the control device issues or triggers an electronic, optical, or acoustic alarm to alert an operator to this fact. Furthermore, it may be provided that, if the type of control signal is not recognized, the control device either does not activate the LED or activates it in a special manner, e.g., by flashing.

[0037] The signal detection unit is specifically designed to continuously and / or at regular intervals check the type of incoming control signals.

[0038] The test can, for example, include a preliminary check to determine whether any signal is present at all. Such a check can be performed at a predetermined frequency, e.g., several times per second.

[0039] According to the invention, it can be provided that only when it is determined that a control signal is present, the signal recognition unit subsequently performs a check to determine what type of control signal is present.

[0040] The invention also includes situations where the signal detection unit constantly or regularly performs a direct check to determine what type of control signals are present at the input contacts, whereby a result of this check may also include the result that no control signal is present at all.

[0041] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control signals applied to the input contacts include information about the dimming value. Depending on the type of control signals applied, the information about the dimming value is contained in the control signal applied to the input contacts as either indirect or direct information, according to a specific protocol.

[0042] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the signal detection unit includes a fuse that is associated with the input contacts. In particular, the fuse is arranged directly behind the input contacts in the signal input direction. The fuse can, in particular, be a switchable fuse that, after tripping—due to an excessive current flow—returns to its initial state after a predetermined period of time. The invention also encompasses situations where the fuse must be replaced after tripping, for example, because it is a cartridge fuse.

[0043] The fuse protects the electronic components of the operating device downstream in the signal direction from overcurrent, especially in the event of a faulty connection or in the event of a short circuit, lightning strike or other overvoltage.

[0044] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the signal detection unit includes a rectifier. This allows an applied AC control signal to be converted into a rectified control signal by mirroring the negative half-wave of the voltage waveform.

[0045] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control gear comprises a transmission path. According to one embodiment of the invention, the control gear can also transmit information from the control gear to a central control unit of a lighting control system located remotely from the control gear, for example, because this is required or desired according to a digital data protocol.

[0046] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a busbar adapter is associated with the control gear. According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control gear is a component of a busbar adapter. This enables a particularly advantageous design of a busbar adapter and / or a particularly advantageous connection of a busbar adapter to a luminaire.

[0047] For example, the track adapter, which conventionally serves to mechanically connect a luminaire to a ceiling, wall, or floor, can be designed compactly and incorporate the control gear of the invention or house the control gear or a part thereof. The track adapter can transmit different types of control signals from the track to the control gear—completely independent of the track's wiring—since the control gear has a signal detection unit that can recognize the type of control signal received. For example, the signal detection unit can also be a component of the track adapter.

[0048] Further advantages of the invention will become apparent from the uncited dependent claims and from the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following drawings. These show: Fig. 1a in a block diagram-like, schematic representation of an embodiment of an operating device according to the invention with a signal detection unit illustrating the principle according to the invention, with a light head, a central control unit of a lighting control system and an input device, Fig. 1b in a schematic representation of a dimming value, Fig. 2 in a schematic, detailed, block diagram-like representation of a further embodiment of an operating device according to the invention with a signal detection unit, Fig. 3 in a schematic principle representation of a conventional circuit of an operating device according to the invention and its application with DALI control signals, Fig. 4 schematically in the upper part of the figure the temporal signal waveform of a DALI signal as an input level that is applied to the input contacts, and in the lower part of the figure the signal level that is processed by the electronics of the signal detection unit according to the invention. Fig. 2 converted signal waveform at the input of the controller, Fig. 5 in a schematic principle representation according to Fig. 3 a conventional circuit of an operating device according to the invention and its application with a button-generated control signal, Fig. 6 the signal waveform of the control signal present at the input contacts of the operating device when the button is pressed, Fig. 7 the signal present after the rectifier of the Fig. 6 , Fig. 8 schematically shows in the upper part of the figure the temporal signal profile of a button-generated signal when the button is pressed and not pressed as the input level applied to the input contacts, and in the lower part of the figure the signal generated by the electronics of the signal recognition unit according to Fig. 2 converted signal waveform at the input of the controller, Fig. 9 the signal waveforms according to Fig. 8 In an enlarged, zoomed-in representation, i.e., with a changed scaling of the X-axis, Fig. 10 shows a functional diagram to illustrate different actuations and operating states of a button, Fig. 11 shows a schematic principle representation according to Fig. 3 a conventional circuit of an operating device according to the invention and its application with a phase-cut signal (phase-angle or phase-section control), Fig. 12 the course of the signal of a phase-cut signal at the input contact, i.e. before the rectifier, in a representation according to Fig. 6 , Fig. 13 the voltage waveform of the signal in Fig. 12 Behind the rectifier, Figs. 14-16 show different signal waveforms at different phase angles, each in a representation according to Fig. 4 .

[0049] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in the following description of the figures, also with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity, identical or comparable parts, elements, or areas are designated with the same reference numerals, sometimes with the addition of lowercase letters, even where different embodiments are concerned.

[0050] Fig. 1a Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of an operating device according to the invention in a schematic block diagram-like representation. As evidenced by... Fig.1a The entire functional and operational chain of the interacting elements of a lighting control system is indicated as an example.

[0051] Fig. 1a This first clarifies that the operating device 10 is connected to a light head 12. According to the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1a The operating device 10 can be a separate component from the light head 12, with these two elements 10, 12 being connected to each other via a power supply line 40d. It can be provided that the light head 12, in addition to a light source, in particular an LED 13, also contains further components. Fig. 1a The device includes optical and mechanical elements not shown, such as an LED board, cooling elements, cables, sockets, or housing elements, and thus provides a luminaire 11b. The control gear 10 can therefore be arranged separately from the luminaire 11b.

[0052] However, the invention also alternatively includes the possibility that the operating device 10 is a component, in particular an integral component, of a luminaire 11a.

[0053] For this reason, in Fig. 1a Both conceivable versions are shown, namely a control gear 10 separate from a luminaire 11b and a control gear 10 integrated into a luminaire 11a.

[0054] The light fixture 11a, 11b includes according to Fig. 1a a light head 12 with an LED 13.

[0055] Contrary to the representation of the invention, Fig. 1a - also includes control gear that controls multiple luminaires and control gear that controls luminaires with multiple light heads, as well as control gear that controls light heads with multiple LEDs, possibly also with multiple LEDs of different colors, and / or with other light sources.

[0056] The operating device 10 has a power supply unit 42, which is located in Fig. 1a The diagram is only schematically represented. The power supply unit 42 is connected to the mains supply via a mains cable 52, which is only indicated. This could be, for example, a 220V or 380V mains supply, or a mains supply with a voltage that has already been transformed, e.g., a 48V or 30V mains supply.

[0057] The power supply unit 42 serves to supply all electronic and electrical components of the control gear 10 and also the luminaire 11a, 11b, with the operating voltage required for the operation of the light source 13.

[0058] The invention also includes the possibility that the light source 13 is supplied with operating power via a current source not shown, in particular a constant current source or a controllable constant current source.

[0059] Since the LED 13 is dimmable and thus the brightness of the light emitted by the luminaire 11a is adjustable, the power supply unit 42 is not directly connected to the light head 12, but via an intermediate control unit 16 of the operating gear 10. This connection is in Fig. 1a shown only schematically, including the connecting line 40d.

[0060] Depending on the desired dimming values, the control unit 16 can apply a corresponding current or voltage value to the control line 40d to adjust the dimming state of the LED 13.

[0061] It should be noted that the driver circuit in Fig. 1a The details are not shown. However, the type of driver circuit is not relevant to the invention.

[0062] Fig. 1a Furthermore, it is made clear that the control gear 10 has input contacts 14a, 14b, which in the exemplary embodiment are designed as receiving sockets 38a, 38b for receiving plug ends 39a, 39b of a signal line 37. The signal line 37 connects a central unit 34 of a lighting control system, or more generally, a control signal generator 34, to the control gear 10. The control signal generator 34 is connected to an input device 35 and to it via a connecting line 36.

[0063] The input device 35 allows an operator to enter a desired dimming value – directly or indirectly.

[0064] In the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1a The input device 35 has a display 53 and input or operating elements 54a, 54b, 54c. Dimming values ​​for one or more luminaires can be set on the input device 35. The dimming values ​​are transmitted to the control signal generator 34 via the connecting line 36. The control signal generator 34 can have a processor 55 or some other suitable computing unit that applies control signals 17 corresponding to the dimming values ​​to the signal line 37, e.g., by modulating them, and transmits them to the operating device 10.

[0065] It should be noted at this point that the control signal generator 34 in the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1a This is indicated as a somewhat more complex control unit 34 of a lighting control system. In this case, the control signal generator 34 can also be connected to further operating devices 10 or further luminaires 11a, 11b via additional lines (not shown). The connecting line 37 can also be designed as a BUS line in this respect.

[0066] Alternatively, the invention also includes embodiments in which the control signal generator 34 is a conventional dimmer from the analog age of lighting control, which is mounted on the wall next to an entrance or door to a room, for example, and which, by actuation in the axial direction, causes a light to be switched on or off, and by rotation causes a change in the dimming value of a light.

[0067] Similarly, the control signal generator 34 can also be formed by, for example, a wall-mounted push button, which, when pressed briefly, switches the light on or off, and when held down for a longer period, dims the light.

[0068] Within the scope of the invention, any different types of input devices 35 or control signal generators 34 are possible.

[0069] In the event that the control gear 10 according to the invention cooperates with a conventional phase dimmer 35 or a push-button dimmer, the input device 35 can, of course, do without a display or operating elements. Here, the dimming value is adjusted directly by turning the dimmer or pressing the push button. It should also be noted that the input device 35 and the control signal generator 34 can be combined into a single device, as is the case, for example, with rotary dimmers or push buttons.

[0070] It should also be noted that if a conventional 35-phase dimmer is used, an additional [connection] is required on its output side. Fig. 1a A load not shown, such as another light, may be connected.

[0071] The operating device according to the invention can also include an additional load for a conventional dimmer, or simulate or generate such a load.

[0072] Depending on the specific type of control signal generator 34 used, either a digital or an analog signal is transmitted via signal line 37. If a digital signal 17 is transmitted via signal line 37, this is typically a low-voltage signal, e.g., a 22.5 V signal for signals according to the DALI protocol. In the case of analog signal transmission, e.g., as a phase-angle control, a phase-cut control, or via a push-button signal, a higher voltage, for example up to 230 V, can also be transmitted via line 37.

[0073] The operating device 10 according to the invention has, in accordance with Fig. 1a Input contacts 14a, 14b, which are designed, for example, as sockets 38a, 38b for receiving plugs 39a, 39b.

[0074] If the signal line 37 is supplied by a busbar and the corresponding conductor tracks run in the busbar, the input contacts 14a, 14b of the control device 10 can, for example, also be configured as contact tongues on a rotatable switching shaft of a busbar adapter. According to the invention, the specific configuration of the input contacts 14a, 14b of the control device is not critical.

[0075] Evidentiously Fig. 1a It becomes clear that the operating device 10 according to the invention has a signal detection unit 15. The signal detection unit 15 can detect different types of control signals present or arriving at the input contacts 14a, 14b. The exact method of detection will be described later.

[0076] First, it should be noted that, assuming the signal detection unit 15 detects that a control signal is present at input contacts 14a and 14b, it can perform a check to determine the type of control signal. For example, it can check whether the signal present is an analog or a digital control signal. Once the signal type has been identified, and if, for example, it has been confirmed that the signal is a control signal according to the DALI protocol, the signal detection unit 15 can transmit this information to the controller 16.

[0077] Knowing this information, i.e., knowing the type of control signal received, and based on the control signals received, the controller 16 can then calculate or determine a dimming value and transmit a control value to the LED 13 via the control line 40d. By setting the corresponding current or voltage via the output line 40d, the LED 13 can be caused to emit a schematically represented Fig. 1b to assume the displayed dimming value of 18.

[0078] Fig. 1b This illustrates, for example, the dimming value 18 according to Fig. 1b can be 45% of a maximum dimming value of 100%.

[0079] According to Fig. 1a It is indicated that the signal detection unit 15 is arranged separately from the control unit 16 and is connected to it via an internal connecting line 40c.

[0080] The invention also includes embodiments in which the signal recognition unit 15 and the control unit 16 form a common assembly or are completely or partially merged. Such a combined assembly, in which the signal recognition unit 15 and the control unit 16 are partially integrated, will be described later with reference to the Fig. 2 will be explained.

[0081] Furthermore, when considering the Fig. 1a It is clear that the signal detection unit 15 or the operating device 10 may comprise a large number of other electronic components not shown.

[0082] For the sake of good order, it should be mentioned that the input contacts 14a, 14b are as shown. Fig. 1a are connected to the signal detection unit 15 via internal connecting lines 40a, 40b.

[0083] Evidentiously Fig. 2 Further details will now be presented using another embodiment of an operating device 10 according to the invention: As evidenced by Fig. 2 An operating device 10 according to the invention is illustrated by means of a block diagram and several electronic components, which are shown between the input contacts 14a, 14b and a processor 16. The processor 16 can form the controller 16, comprise it, or be part of the controller 16. The invention also includes the operating device 10 according to Fig. 2 a processor 16 according to Fig. 2 as a component of the signal recognition unit 15. The invention further encompasses a signal recognition unit 15 additionally comprising a component in Fig. 2 not shown, includes a processor which is arranged separately from the controller 16.

[0084] Depending on its design, the signal recognition unit 15 will at least possess a certain degree of intelligence, i.e., a computing unit and, in particular, a memory. Whether this intelligence and the memory are provided by separate electronic components or by components of the control system 16 is left to the expert to decide.

[0085] Evidentiously Fig. 2 In the signal path immediately following the input contacts 14a and 14b, a fuse 29 and a rectifier 30 are arranged. The receive path 31, extending to the processor 16, connects to these two components. Incoming control signals present at the contact elements 14a and 14b can be processed via the receive path 31.

[0086] Fuse 29 first ensures that the operating device 10 is protected against overvoltage. Rectifier 30 ensures that AC voltage signals are converted into a voltage waveform consisting exclusively of positive voltage. As evidenced by Fig. 6 For example, an alternating voltage present at input contacts 14a, 14b when a button signal is applied can be measured according to Fig. 6 , which, starting from a zero value, has positive and negative voltage ranges, by mirroring the half-wave through the rectifier 30 according to Fig. 7 They are converted into exclusively positive voltage ranges. This allows for simplified and improved (subsequent) signal processing.

[0087] Furthermore, in the embodiment of the operating device 10 according to the invention, Fig. 2 A transmission branch or transmission path may also be provided. This is in Fig. 2 Designated as 32, it includes other electronic components that will be discussed later.

[0088] In Fig. 2 The reference numeral 42 merely indicates a power supply unit. It is clear to a person skilled in the art that the power supply unit 42 supplies all the electronic components of the operating device 10 with operating voltage.

[0089] The signal applied to the input contacts 14a, 14b, rectified by the rectifier 30, reaches a Zener diode 56 and from there an optocoupler 57. The latter serves for galvanic isolation.

[0090] At the output of the opto-coupler, the signal is routed to a processor input 46 of the processor 16.

[0091] If the control signals are digital and structured, for example, according to the DALI protocol, feedback from the operating devices may be provided in accordance with the DALI protocol. The transmit path or transmit branch 32 of the operating device 10 is important for this purpose. Accordingly, signals from the processor 16 may be transmitted via its output 47, via a further output optocoupler 58, and via a transmit transistor 45 to the input contacts 14a, 14b. The feedback signals are coupled to the signal line 37 via the input contacts 14a, 14b and to a control signal generator 34 according to... Fig. 1a transmitted, which in this case acts as a feedback signal receiver.

[0092] Furthermore, for the sake of completeness, a current limiting unit 43 and an overvoltage cut-off unit 44 should also be mentioned.

[0093] The operation of the receiving branch is briefly explained as follows: The fuse 29, located downstream of input contacts 14a and 14b in the signal direction, protects the operating device 10 in case of a fault or incorrect connection. The rectifier 30 converts negative signal voltages into positive signal voltages.

[0094] In the receive path 59 of the operating device 10, the Zener diode 57, which is constantly energized by a current source, switches on when the signal voltage exceeds the Zener voltage (approx. 5.6V). Only when the input voltage is above 5.6V can the current source 59 drive current through the optocoupler 57. When the optocoupler is switched on, a low signal is generated at the processor input 46.

[0095] In other words, the processor input 46 always sees a high signal unless the voltage applied to the input contacts 14a, 14b, rectified via the rectifier 30, is above the Zener voltage; only in the latter case is the output of the opto-coupler 57 switched to low.

[0096] Evidentiously Fig. 3 A typical wiring configuration of an operating device 10 when using DALI control signals is explained: Fig. 3 Figure 1 shows an embodiment of an operating device 10 according to the invention, in which the DALI control signals are applied to the input contacts 14a, 14b. Conventional operating devices of the prior art required separate DALI inputs for this purpose.

[0097] Furthermore, it shows Fig. 3 a neutral conductor 49 and a conductor 48 and the two DALI conductors 50a, 50b. The two DALI conductors 50a, 50b correspond in this respect to the signal conductor 37 of the Fig. 1a . Conductor 48 and neutral conductor 49 correspond in this respect to the indicated network line 52 of the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1a .

[0098] Lines 48 and 49 can, for example, carry a 230V AC voltage, a 48V DC voltage, or another suitable mains voltage.

[0099] The in Fig. 3 In this respect, the four lines shown can, for example, be provided by different conductor tracks in a busbar. Fig. 3 makes it clear that the four lines 48, 49, 50a, 50b also have additional operating devices 10 connected, and thus further, in Fig. 3 Lights not shown can be connected.

[0100] The control signals present at input contacts 14a, 14b – and thus also on the DALI lines 50a, 50b – are referred to as DALI signals 26. The signal waveform 51 of a DALI signal is shown in detail in the upper part of the diagram, in the manner of an oscillogram, as the course of voltage (Y-axis) versus time (X-axis). Fig. 4 The DALI signal, according to the DALI protocol, includes maximum voltages of 22.5V.

[0101] Assuming a DALI signal 26 is present at the input contacts 14a, 14b according to the upper part of the Fig. 4 should now, with reference to Fig. 2 The signal processing and signal flow are explained as follows: After rectification and passing through the current source 59 and the Zener diode 56, the incoming signals are routed to the processor 46 via the optocoupler 57. It is designed so that current from the current source 59 can only be driven through the optocoupler 57 if the signal voltage (after the rectifier 30) is higher than the so-called Zener voltage (approx. 5.6V). In this case, the optocoupler 57 conducts and generates a low signal at the processor input 46.

[0102] The lower part of the Fig. 4 This represents the signal waveform 60 of the signal 17 measurable at the input 46 of the processor 16.

[0103] In further explanation of the Fig. 4 It should be noted that a DALI signal 26 basically transmits a sequence of positive applied voltage and zero voltages via lines 50a and 50b. This sequence of high and low voltages of the DALI signal 24 contains the information about the dimming value in the respective pulse widths.

[0104] The signal waveform 60 of the signal present at processor input 46 is inverted in this respect: When the DALI signal is high, the processor input signal is low. If the DALI signal falls below a minimum Zener voltage value of approximately 5.6V, the processor input signal is set to high.

[0105] The signal waveform 60 at the processor input 46 can be derived from the signal waveform 24 of the DALI signal 26.

[0106] Fig. 5 illustrates a conventional circuit of an operating device 10 using a control signal generator 34 designed as a push button.

[0107] Here, another embodiment of an operating device 10 according to the invention is shown, to whose input contacts 14a, 14b the push button 34 is connected. The output of the push button 34 is connected to the input contact 14b. The input contact 14a is connected to the neutral conductor N.

[0108] With switch 34 open according to Fig. 5 Phase L2 is not present at input contact 14b. Only when button 34 is pressed – and switch 34 is closed – can the signal detection unit 15 of the operating device 10 detect the presence of a control signal.

[0109] When switch 34 is closed (i.e., the button is pressed), the mains voltage L2 is applied to input contact 14b in the form of a pulsating 50 Hz AC voltage. This signal waveform 17 shows Fig. 6 .

[0110] The incoming signal is subsequently rectified by rectifier 30 according to Fig. 2 to a pulsating positive voltage with a 100 Hz frequency response. This is defined as the processed control signal 17b according to Fig. 7 depicted.

[0111] The representation of the signal waveform 17b according to Fig. 7 This results from the reflection of the negative voltage half-wave of the Fig. 6 on the side axis.

[0112] In the event that the rectified mains voltage according to Fig. 7 If the voltage exceeds approximately 5.6V, the processor sees 16 according to... Fig. 2 a low level. If the rectified mains voltage falls below 5.6V, the processor 16 sees a high level at its input 46.

[0113] The following will be based on the Fig. 8 and later, based on the enlarged representation of the Fig. 8 according to Fig. 9 It will be explained how, when the button is pressed, the control signal present at input contacts 14a, 14b is converted into a signal present at processor input 46:

[0114] Fig. 8 The upper section shows the signal waveform 28 of a control signal present at the input contacts 14a, 14b of the operating device 10 according to the invention when a button 34 is pressed and the button 34 is held down for a period of time 19.

[0115] From time t1 to time t2, the button is not pressed. Only at time t2 is the button pressed and held for a duration of 19, until time t3, and then released again.

[0116] During the time period t1 to t2, while switch 34 is open, no signal is present at input contacts 14a and 14b. A zero-to-full voltage is typically used here.

[0117] When switch 34 is closed, i.e., when push button 34 is held down for a duration of 19, the mains voltage applied to conductor phase L2 is switched through to contact 14b. The mains voltage signal, with an RMS value of, for example, 230 V and a frequency of 50 or 60 Hz, is then present at input contacts 14a and 14b.

[0118] Since the voltage curve 17 of the button signal according to Fig. 6 or according to the upper part of the Fig. 8 , only in the area of ​​the zero crossings does the value fall below 5.6V, a short pulse or peak 61a, 61b is generated for each half-wave and given to the processor 16.

[0119] If button 34 is not pressed, there is no voltage at input contacts 14a and 14b. Processor 16 receives a permanent high level at its input 46.

[0120] When button 34 is pressed, processor 16 receives a pulse at its input 46 for each half-wave. The signal waveform at input 46 of microprocessor 16 is shown in Fig. 8 In the lower part, it is shown horizontally on the same time axis and labelled 60 there.

[0121] Fig. 9 shows a temporally magnified area, i.e., zoomed in on the x-axis, which Fig. 8 . Again, in the upper part of the Fig. 9 the signal waveform 17 in the area of ​​the input contacts 14a, 14b and in the lower part of the Fig. 9 The signal waveform 60 at input 46 of the microprocessor 16 is shown.

[0122] Fig. 10 Figure 34 illustrates how conventional pushbuttons work: In the left column, each row shows an action performed by the pushbutton. The right column in the same row explains the resulting function.

[0123] Evidentiously Fig. 11 A typical circuit for phase-cut control, e.g., phase-angle control or phase-cut control, will now be explained: Here, the control signal generator 34 is formed by a conventional dimmer. The dimmer 34 can cut off the phases differently in different rotation states:

[0124] Fig. 12 The figure illustrates the voltage curve of a control signal 17, namely an analog control signal 25, in the manner of a dimmer signal at a specific set rotation state of the dimmer: Here the phase is cut off at time t1, t2, t3.

[0125] Fig. 13 This shows the rectifier 30 behind the rectifier. Fig. 3 measurable rectified signal 25 assuming an output signal at the input contacts 14a, 14b according to Fig. 12 .

[0126] The Fig. 14, 15 und 16 illustrate for different phase angles ( Fig. 14 small phase angle Fig. 15 mean phase angle, Fig. 16 large phase angle) in the upper part the signal waveform 27 of the phase-angle signal or a phase-cut signal at the input contacts 14a, 14b and in the lower part the signal waveform 60 at the input 46 of the microprocessor 16.

[0127] The signal detection unit 15 of the operating device 10 is capable of detecting the different types of control signals, such as those found in Fig. 4 (first type), Fig. 8 und 9 (second type), Fig. 14 bis 16 (third type) are represented, to distinguish and recognize.

[0128] To determine the type of signal, the processor 16 – as part of the signal detection unit 15 – can check various criteria: For example, the signal detection unit 15 can determine whether signals at input 46 of the processor 16 are low or high. The signal detection unit 15 can also check the duration of the signal 19 (e.g., according to...). Fig. 4 or according to Fig. 8 ) a signal is present, or whether there are constantly regular - periodic - signals (cf. Fig. 14 bis 16 ) - and if so, at what frequency - are present.

[0129] The invention also includes other test criteria for determining the type of control signals applied.

[0130] If signals with a short duration of 19 are present, they could, for example, be a first type of signal according to Fig. 4 trade or a second type of signal according to Fig. 8 However, these already differ in that DALI signals use 24 according to... Fig. 4 The processor input 46 is generally low, and then a high-level signal is generated at the input 46 of the processor 16 for a short period of time 19 and with different pulse widths 62.

[0131] The signal structure 60 according to Fig. 8 However, this is completely different: There, processor input 46 is always high, and starting from a low state, a series of pulses is generated. These pulses are countable. The number of pulses or the duration of 19 can then be a measure of the dimming level.

[0132] As explained above, the DALI signals can be used according to Fig. 4 and the button signals 60 according to Fig. 8 but they can already be distinguished according to their type if the processor 16 can recognize and determine a specific signal scheme - based on the signals present at the processor input 46.

[0133] The recognition of a signal pattern also takes place by examining certain criteria.

[0134] Does the signal detection unit 15, for example, detect the presence of a signal 60 according to Fig. 4 The dimming value to be set can be calculated based on the width or pulse widths.

[0135] If, however, the signal detection unit 15 recognizes the presence of a signal of the type of Fig. 8 (Signal curve 60), for example, the desired dimming value can be determined from the number of peaks 61a, 61b, 61c.

[0136] If, however, the signal detection unit 15 detects that a signal 60 according to the Fig. 14 bis 16 If a continuous sequence of peaks 61a, 61b, 61c is present, especially with a fixed frequency, this characteristic can be used as a criterion for identifying the type of this control signal 27.

[0137] Once the signal type has been identified, the desired dimming value can be determined or calculated, for example, based on the pulse width 62 of the signal.

[0138] Once the processor 16 and / or the controller 16 has determined the desired dimming value, it can control the LED 13 accordingly and provide current at a desired current level to set the desired dimming state of the LED.

[0139] In the embodiment according to Fig. 2 The processor 16 is part of the signal detection unit 15. In this embodiment, the processor 16 is also part of the control unit 16.

[0140] However, it is not relevant to the invention whether parts of the intelligence are organized decentrally, for example in separate electronic components, or centrally, for example in shared processors or other components. This is left to the expert to decide.

[0141] The invention particularly encompasses the possibility that the processor or controller 16 has a memory in which, for example, certain criteria and comparison values ​​are stored in a tabular format, so that the processor 16 of the signal detection unit 15 can perform a check of criteria to determine what type of signal is present. Furthermore, the signal detection unit 15 and / or the processor 16 and / or the controller 16 can access stored tabular values ​​or algorithms or formulas to determine or calculate the desired dimming value from the processed signals present at the processor input 46 after recognizing the signal type.

Claims

1. Operating device (10) for at least one light (11), comprising a voltage supply unit, which is designed to provide required operating voltage for operating a light source, input contacts (14a, 14b) for receiving control signals (17) for the light, and a signal detection unit (15) connected to the input contacts, wherein the signal detection unit (15) is designed to detect a type of control signals, adjacent to the input contacts, from a group of different types of control signals, and wherein the operating device (10) has a control (16), which after detecting the type of adjacent control signals, controls the light source according to a first piece of information contained in the control signals via a dimming value, characterised in that the operating device (10) has a receiving path (31), which extends up to a processor of the signal detection unit (15), wherein the control signals of different types incoming via the receiving path (31) can be processed, and the light source has at least one LED (13).

2. Operating device according to claim 1, characterised in that the control (16) obtains a second piece of information about the type of adjacent control signals from the signal detection unit and, depending on the obtained second piece of information about the type of the adjacent control signals, converts the adjacent control signals into the dimming value (18) for the at least one LED and, knowing the dimming value, supplies the operating voltage to the at least one LED (13).

3. Operating device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the signal detection unit (15) is designed to carry out a measurement of the signal duration (19) and / or a measurement of signal zero crossings (20) and / or a measurement of signal edges (21), in particular of level increases (22) and / or level decreases (23) and / or a measurement of pulse widths and / or a measurement of pulse frequencies to detect the type of control signals.

4. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the group of different types of control signals comprises digital control signals (24) and analogue control signals (25).

5. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the group of different types of control signals (24, 25) comprises control signals (26) according to the DALI protocol.

6. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the group of different types of control signals comprises phase-on control signals (27) or phase-cut control signals.

7. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the group of different types of control signals comprises switch-generated control signals (28).

8. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the signal detection unit (15) carries out the detection of the type of the adjacent control signals continuously or at regular intervals.

9. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the signal detection unit (15) comprises a fuse (29) which is assigned to the input contacts (14a, 14b).

10. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operating device has a rectifier (30) which is assigned to the signal detection unit (15).

11. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operating device (10) comprises a transmission path (32) for control signals.

12. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the operating device is a component of a track adapter (33).

13. Operating device according to one of claims 1 to 11 in combination with a track adapter (33), to which the operating device is assigned.