HEADLIGHT SYSTEM AND HEADLIGHTS

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a spotlight system with a spotlight designed as a stage or architectural spotlight and a separate accumulator device as an energy storage device, as well as to such a stage or architectural spotlight.

[0002] Stage spotlights are used in lighting technology for events, especially theaters, concerts, but also trade fairs and other events. Architectural spotlights are used for object lighting, especially for buildings and monuments. Event lighting, which also involves background and scenery lighting, encompasses aspects of lighting technology for both events and objects. Especially in open-air performances and event lighting, the transitions between the use of stage and architectural spotlights can be fluid.

[0003] Spotlights are finding an increasingly broad range of applications in lighting technology for events, stages and architecture.

[0004] These spotlights are typically powered via the AC mains. Appropriate power cables must be provided for this purpose. This involves considerable effort, particularly for event lighting and generally for spotlights located far from a power outlet.

[0005] In addition, cable connections are often undesirable for safety reasons, as they pose tripping hazards. Furthermore, they often detract from the overall appearance of a lighting installation. These disadvantages often lead to compromises regarding the lighting concept when planning an event, limiting the creativity of lighting designers.

[0006] This can be avoided by supplying the spotlights with power via accumulator devices, which can be charged before the event, thus eliminating the need for a mains connection during the event.

[0007] The use of accumulator devices for headlights is already known. There are headlights in which the accumulator devices are integrated into the headlight housing. However, as the headlights' performance increases, this leads to a significant increase in the housing size and weight.

[0008] However, since battery operation is not necessary for every use of a spotlight, unnecessary transport weight and volume would be generated during transport to the event location, particularly for higher-power spotlights, which would significantly increase transport costs for events with a larger number of spotlights.

[0009] EP 1 975 502 A1 describes a headlight lamp head which is mounted on a case in which a battery device is located.

[0010] However, this document does not describe a way to operate the light head directly from the AC mains, independent of the case. Thus, the previously described disadvantages of a headlamp with a rechargeable battery integrated into the housing remain.

[0011] In addition, there is exactly one battery case provided for the operation of one light head.

[0012] US 2011 / 0205752 A1 discloses a lighting device. It comprises a lighting device and a housing with an upper wall connected to a lower wall. The housing has a front and a rear wall, and a cover is connected to the rear of the housing. At least one mechanism for connecting the lighting device to a second lighting device is located on at least one of the walls of the housing. A mechanism for holding at least one light-emitting diode is connected to the front of the housing and a power source. At least one light-emitting diode is attached to the mechanism for holding the at least one light-emitting diode.

[0013] A battery assembly in a different context, namely, for example, a lawn mower, is described in WO 2020 / 077176 A1. The battery assembly comprises a housing with a handle, rechargeable battery cells arranged in the housing, and a device configured to selectively connect the battery assembly to a receptacle of a power device and / or a charging station. The device comprises a connector with at least two electrical terminals electrically connected to the battery cells and a data port configured to provide data communication between the battery assembly and at least one of the power device and the charging station.

[0014] Stage and architectural spotlights are available in a wide range of designs with different light outputs and therefore power consumptions to suit different lighting requirements.

[0015] If only one external accumulator device were used for a headlight, it would be very unwieldy for higher power classes due to its size and weight.

[0016] For stage and architectural spotlights, the capacity requirements for the external battery device can vary from event to event depending on the lighting design due to different usage times and lighting situations. This can be determined during the planning phase before the event begins. It is desirable to transport only the battery capacity actually required to a venue to minimize the considerable transportation costs.

[0017] If only one external accumulator device is used for a spotlight, external accumulator devices of different capacities would have to be kept in sufficient quantities, which would lead to an increased inventory of accumulator devices and an increased effort in the planning logistics for events.

[0018] Furthermore, it's useful for stage and architectural spotlights to receive information about the charge level of the external battery. This could, for example, put the spotlight into energy-saving mode when the charge level is low.

[0019] This, too, is not addressed in the above-mentioned document. Nor are intelligent concepts for simultaneously charging multiple battery devices discussed here.

[0020] The task is to provide an alternative arrangement which does not have the disadvantages described above.

[0021] The problem is solved by a headlight system having the features of claim 1 and a corresponding headlight.

[0022] The spotlight system comprises a spotlight, designed as a stage or architectural spotlight, which has at least one first supply interface for an external mains supply and at least one second supply interface for an external accumulator supply, and an external accumulator device with at least one accumulator interface for providing a supply voltage for the spotlight, which is connectable or connected to the second supply interface. The second supply interface and the accumulator interface are designed for data communication from the accumulator device to the spotlight.

[0023] By providing the first supply interface for the external mains supply and the second supply interface for the external accumulator supply, the headlight can be used flexibly. It can be powered either by the external mains supply, which also includes the common power grid, or by the accumulator device. The accumulator device is not part of the headlight and, due to the detachable connection between the headlight and the accumulator device, can be used for various headlights and headlight types. The connection can be made by suitable means, e.g., cables or plug bridges, or directly. In the latter case, the interfaces of the headlight and the accumulator device engage directly to establish the electrically conductive connection.

[0024] It should be noted that the second supply interface and the accumulator interface of one embodiment can be electrically connected or connected. In an alternative embodiment, they can be both electrically connected and wirelessly connected or connected. Nevertheless, other connections are also possible; in particular, other energy transmission methods are conceivable, for example, inductive.

[0025] The second supply interface and the accumulator interface do not necessarily have to be contacted by just one connector each, be it a plug or socket. It is also conceivable to provide multiple connectors for contacting the same interface or to provide an at least partially wireless connection. In one embodiment, the power supply is provided via an electrically conductive connection and the data is transmitted via an electrically conductive connection or via a radio connection. For example, the power supply can be provided via a cable with two end-side connectors, and the data can be transmitted via another cable with two end-side connectors. Alternatively, the data can be transmitted wirelessly, namely via a radio connection. Nevertheless, the connection with exactly one connector at each of the interfaces is preferred.

[0026] The accumulator device comprises one or, usually, a plurality of accumulator cells, each of which provides all or part of the supply voltage within the accumulator device. The voltages of the accumulator cells add up to the supply voltage within the accumulator device. The accumulator cells are usefully grouped together in several groups. For several accumulator cells connected together in a group, the term "battery pack" or "accumulator pack" is commonly used. In addition to the accumulator cells, the accumulator device also has a module for communication with the headlight and, usefully, other components such as processors and components for accumulator cell management, voltage regulators, and charging electronics to provide the functionality of the accumulator device.The voltage regulators enable the provision of a regulated supply voltage for the headlight and also for the internal voltage supply of the accumulator device.

[0027] The accumulator device can be charged by an external charger or indirectly by the mains-powered headlight. In one embodiment, the accumulator device includes charging electronics for the accumulator cells, e.g., with a charging current regulator. In such a design, when charging, the external charger or headlight only provides a supply voltage for the charging electronics in the accumulator device. Alternatively, the charging process can also be carried out entirely by the external charger or headlight, with the charging electronics, such as the charging current regulator, being provided in the external charger or headlight.

[0028] The headlight is advantageously designed to switch between the mains supply via the first supply interface and the accumulator supply via the second supply interface. It can detect whether a supply voltage is present at the supply interfaces. If this is only the case at one of the supply interfaces, the energy supply is provided via this. When supply voltages are applied to both supply interfaces, the energy supply via one of the supply interfaces, usually the first, can be prioritized. Different supply voltages are advantageously applied to the first and second supply interfaces. The mains voltage can be 230V, for example, and is thus higher than the supply voltage of the headlight provided by the accumulator device, which can be approximately 48V, for example.If the internal operating voltage provided by the accumulator falls below a specified cutoff value, which is defined to protect the accumulator cells depending on the accumulator technology used, the supply voltage for the headlight is cut off. When using multiple supply voltages, different cutoff voltages can be defined for these so that the supply to the headlight's control electronics can be maintained for a certain period of time after the supply voltage for the headlight's power electronics is cut off. The internal operating voltage provided by the fully charged accumulator cells is therefore considerably higher than the supply voltage provided by the accumulator.A typical value for an internal operating voltage provided by the fully charged battery cells is approximately 65V.

[0029] The second supply interface of the headlight and the accumulator interface have a dual function, as they not only enable the power supply to the headlight, but also data communication at least from the accumulator device to the headlight. Advantageously, communication is also possible in the opposite direction, so that data communication between the accumulator device and headlight can take place in both directions, i.e. bidirectionally. The interface function for data communication between the accumulator device and headlight and, if appropriate, between any combination of one or more accumulator devices and one or more headlights can be implemented, for example, via wiring, via optical fiber, or wirelessly, e.g., via WLAN or Bluetooth. Bidirectional data communication enables the headlight to control the accumulator device.The supply function of the second supply interface can be divided into multiple power supplies, for example, separate supplies for power electronics and control electronics. This facilitates the implementation of energy-saving modes in which one of the supplies is switched off.

[0030] Stage spotlights are used in lighting technology for events, particularly theaters, concerts, and trade fairs. Architectural spotlights are used for object lighting, especially buildings and monuments. If these spotlights are intended for outdoor use, they are advantageously designed to be at least splash-proof. The spotlights can emit moving light or static light. With moving light, the direction of light emission is changed during operation, usually by means of motors, for example by moving the spotlight head using motors or by a moving lens in front of the beam path that influences the beam pattern. With static light, the adjustment is usually manual and is not changed during operation. The stage or architectural spotlight can, for example, be designed as a moving-head or static spotlight.A moving head spotlight for moving light, also known as a moving head spotlight or moving light spotlight, comprises a base, a bracket, and a head as rotatably connected assemblies that allow the head to be pivoted around usually two axes. The bracket, as the connecting link between the head and base, is pivotally connected to the base. The head is pivotally connected to the bracket. The rotation axes are aligned at an angle, preferably at right angles, to each other, allowing the head to be rotated and pivoted relative to the base. This design provides a very high degree of freedom of movement, allowing the light of the spotlight to be directed almost anywhere within the scope of its mechanical freedom of movement, depending on the location of the suspension or setup. Such moving head spotlights have motors that move the head and bracket. With static spotlights, the alignment in their mount is done manually.

[0031] In one embodiment, the headlight has at least one additional second supply interface for a further external battery supply, so that the battery supply at one of the second supply interfaces can be replaced during operation. In such an embodiment, battery devices can be connected to all second supply interfaces simultaneously.

[0032] In one embodiment, the spotlight can be coupled to at least one other spotlight, designed as a stage or architectural spotlight, so that the spotlights are powered by the same external battery supply. The spotlights can be coupled, for example, using the second supply interfaces if several spotlights are provided on the spotlights. This allows multiple spotlights to be cascaded, with only one of them directly connected to a battery supply. In this way, a single battery device can be cascaded to supply multiple spotlights, possibly with reduced brightness. The cascaded spotlights are also referred to as a spotlight chain.

[0033] In one embodiment, the accumulator device has at least two accumulator interfaces. Advantageously, either multiple headlights or any combination of headlights and additional accumulator devices can be connected to these interfaces, so that the devices can be connected to one another via the corresponding interfaces. In one embodiment, the accumulator device has at least two accumulator interfaces.

[0034] The headlight system can advantageously include several accumulator devices that are connected to one another in a cascaded manner to extend the operation of the headlight. The plurality of accumulator devices comprises the accumulator device described above and others thereof. In cascading, several accumulator devices are connected in series. The cascaded accumulator devices are also referred to as an accumulator device chain. The accumulator interfaces enable at least one data communication from all cascaded accumulator devices to the headlight or to all cascaded headlights. Advantageously, communication is also possible in the opposite direction and between all cascaded accumulator devices and all cascaded headlights.The accumulator devices are cascaded by connecting a further interface of the accumulator device to the accumulator interface of another accumulator device. This further interface can then be connected to the accumulator interface of yet another accumulator device, and so on. The further interface is configured for data communication between the accumulator devices, in particular for data communication with the accumulator interface of another accumulator device. Advantageously, the further interface is also configured as an accumulator interface.

[0035] Of course, a battery device chain can also be used to supply power to several coupled headlights. Instead of coupling only one battery device to the second interfaces of one or more headlights, as described above, battery device chains can also be coupled to the second interfaces of one or more headlights. This enables a longer operating time and allows one or more battery devices to be replaced during operation, thereby further extending operation. During headlight operation, the headlight can be connected to another battery device chain to ensure continuous headlight operation, for example, if the previously used battery device chain is removed for charging when the charge level is low.

[0036] By cascading accumulator devices in accumulator device chains, various application requirements with headlights of different performance can be covered with one type or with a small number of several types of accumulator devices.

[0037] Advantageously, the accumulator device is designed as a nickel-metal hydride accumulator device, which is robust and has a high energy density.

[0038] Advantageously, the data communication comprises the provision of status information about the accumulator device or the plurality of accumulator devices, based on which the headlight can control or regulate its supply. The status information can include information about the charge level or possible defects in accumulator cells. It can allow estimates of the expected operating time. A display device for outputting the status information, e.g., charge levels, defects, or expected operating time, can be provided on the headlight, so that the circuitry effort for visually providing the status information is concentrated on the headlight. The headlight can have a user interface, e.g., a touch panel or keypad, for controlling the headlight.This also makes it possible to control the display device or the charging process for one or more battery devices. Additional interfaces, such as those for controlling the headlight, are conceivable.

[0039] The accumulator device advantageously includes a data processing unit (CPU) for monitoring the accumulator device status and for communication with the headlight. A data processing unit is provided in the headlight, which can be used for both communication and control of the accumulator devices and the charging process. When charging via the headlight, its first supply interface is connected to the power grid, and the headlight communicates with the accumulator devices via the data interface function of the second supply interface.

[0040] In a design with wireless data transmission, the accumulator device has a accumulator device radio module for data communication from the accumulator device to the headlight or to an external monitoring device. The data communication can be bidirectional. Additionally or alternatively, the headlight has a headlight radio module for data communication from the accumulator device to the headlight or to an external monitoring device. The data communication can be bidirectional. The radio modules are designed to transmit operating parameters, e.g., the charge level of the accumulator device, to the monitoring device, which can centrally monitor and communicate with multiple devices. The monitoring device can be designed, for example, as an app on a smartphone or tablet or as a lighting control panel.Such a monitoring device for multiple spotlight systems is advantageous for events with multiple spotlights operating on battery power. Operating parameters can be transmitted via the spotlight's interfaces, e.g., using conventional communication interfaces and protocols such as network, wireless DMX / RDM, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ACN, SACN, and ArtNet. Advantageously, data transmission to the monitoring device is wireless, eliminating the need for a cable connection. Advantageously, the monitoring device can also control the monitored devices, thus functioning as a monitoring and control device.

[0041] A data interface may also be provided on the external charger, which communicates with the accumulator devices via this data interface during charging.

[0042] Communication during the charging process enables intelligent charging of several connected battery devices while utilizing the maximum charging power of the charger, since the charger is designed to communicate with the battery devices via the data interface function.

[0043] Advantageously, the accumulator device comprises a signaling device for information such as charge level and error signaling. The signaling device can be designed as a simple display unit for indicating the charge level, e.g., as an LED strip. Optionally, a button can be provided to activate the signaling device. The button can be multifunctional and can also be designed, for example, to initiate the coupling process with the headlight.

[0044] Advantageously, the accumulator device is robust, compact, and / or splash-proof. Advantageously, each accumulator device has a carrying device, for example, in the form of one or more handles. Additionally or alternatively, a holding and / or transport device for multiple accumulator devices can be provided, for example, in the form of a carrying basket, frame, or flight case.

[0045] Advantageously, the accumulator device is designed such that it can be stacked on top of another accumulator device. The headlight is designed such that it can be stacked on top of the accumulator device. In other words, the accumulator device is designed such that it can be placed underneath the headlight. In one embodiment, the headlight and the accumulator device are lockable, allowing the headlight system to be operated while suspended.

[0046] Below, some examples are explained in more detail using the drawings. They show: Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a headlight system with a head-moving headlight and a battery device, Figure 2 shows the embodiment of the headlight system with the head-moving headlight and the battery device from Figure 1 with further details, Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of a headlight system, Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of a headlight system, Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a plurality of accumulator devices, Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of a plurality of accumulator devices, and Figure 7 shows a further embodiment of a headlight system.

[0047] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent components or features are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0048] Figure 1shows an embodiment of a spotlight system with a spotlight designed as a stage or architectural spotlight. It is designed as a moving-head spotlight 1. Such moving-head spotlights 1 are particularly common in stage technology. The spotlight system further comprises a battery device 3.

[0049] The spotlight 1 comprises a base 5, a bracket 7, and a head 9. These rotatably connected assemblies enable the head 9 to be pivoted around two axes. The connections and a drive mechanism are housed in the bracket 7 in the base 5. The bracket 7, as the connecting link between the head 9 and the base 5, is rotatably connected to the base 5. The head 9 is rotatably connected to the bracket 7. The axes of rotation are aligned at right angles to each other. The head 9 comprises a projection unit of the spotlight 1 and houses the lamp and optics, as well as optional color and gobo wheels and effect filters. The head 9 performs a pivoting movement relative to the bracket 7.

[0050] The headlight 1 further comprises a first supply interface 11 for an external mains supply and a second supply interface 13 for an external accumulator supply. External supply means that the energy source is not part of the headlight, but can be electrically connected to the headlight via the interfaces. In this exemplary embodiment, both the first supply interface 11 and the second supply interface 13 are designed as a socket in the base 5. Alternatively, a plug, optionally on a cable-shaped extension (not shown), can be designed as the interface. In this exemplary embodiment, supply or connecting lines can be connected to the supply interfaces designed as sockets by means of a plug.

[0051] Furthermore, a display device 15 and a user interface 17, which in this exemplary embodiment is designed as a keypad, are provided in the base 5. Alternative designs, for example as a touchpad, also referred to as a touchpad, are conceivable. Furthermore, the headlight 1 has an optional data interface 18, by means of which it can be controlled by an external device. The data interface 18 can be designed as a wired or wireless interface, e.g., via WLAN or Bluetooth. The headlight 1 can be controlled via the data interface 18 using an app, e.g., on a mobile phone or smartphone, or a control panel. Information about the rechargeable battery device 3, e.g., its charge level or error messages, can be provided to external devices via the data interface 18. If a data interface 18 is provided, the display device 15 and user interface 17 are unnecessary.

[0052] The headlight 1 includes a power supply unit in the base 5 to generate an internal headlight supply voltage from the externally applied supply voltage. The headlight 1 detects whether a supply voltage is present at the supply interfaces 11, 13. If this is only the case at one of the supply interfaces 11, 13, the power is supplied via this. When applying supply voltages to both supply interfaces 11, 13, it is advisable to select the mains supply in order to protect the rechargeable battery device 3 and to charge it if necessary. The supply voltages at the supply interfaces 11, 13 are generally different. The mains voltage can be 230V, for example. The supply voltage provided by the rechargeable battery device 3 is usually lower, but must be sufficient to operate the headlight 1.When using voltage regulation in the accumulator device, this is stabilized at approximately 48V, for example. The operation of the accumulator device requires an internal operating voltage, which is provided by the cascaded battery packs. This varies depending on the charge level of the accumulator cells. This is usually set so that the supply voltage is guaranteed until the maximum permissible discharge of the accumulator cells is reached (usually approximately 1.1V per accumulator cell for NiMh batteries). When using NiMh batteries, in the current example, this would result in the internal operating voltage of the accumulator device varying between approximately 53V and 65V depending on the charge level of the accumulator cells. If the voltage falls below 53V, the power supply for the headlight would sensibly be stopped.

[0053] The accumulator device 3 comprises an accumulator interface 19 for providing the supply voltage for the headlight 1 and a further interface 21, which provides a cascaded connection with further accumulator devices (in Figure 1 not shown). The further interface is designed as an additional accumulator interface 21.

[0054] The accumulator interface 19 is connected to the second supply interface 13 of the headlight 1 by means of a cable 23 in order to supply the headlight 1 with the supply voltage provided by the accumulator device 3. Communication between the headlight 1 and the accumulator device 3 also takes place via these interfaces 19, 13.

[0055] Status information about the rechargeable battery device 3, for example its charge level or error messages, can be displayed on the display device 15. The user interface 17 allows the control of both the headlight 1 and the rechargeable battery device 3. Furthermore, the rechargeable battery device 3 has at least one signaling device 22 designed as a signaling light, which can be designed, for example, as an LED. The signaling light indicates errors or defects when it is illuminated. In one embodiment, two signaling lights of different colors can be provided. One color indicates a normal operating mode, and the other color indicates a defect or error. Details about the status indicated by the signaling light can be displayed on the headlight 1 or on an external device.

[0056] The accumulator device 3 has a carrying handle 25 attached to its top to facilitate transport.

[0057] The described spotlight system allows the positioning and operation of spotlight 1 independent of the mains power supply. This is advantageous, for example, for open-air events. Especially when only a few spotlights are required away from the mains power supply, spotlight systems can easily provide the desired illumination.

[0058] Figure 2 shows the previously described embodiment with further details. To avoid repetition, the description focuses on these.

[0059] A supply cable 27 for connecting to the mains is plugged into the first supply interface 11. However, it is not connected. As soon as it is connected, the headlight 1 detects that a supply voltage is being provided by both the accumulator device 3 and the mains supply. In this case, the power supply would be provided via the mains to protect the accumulator device 3 and to charge it if necessary.

[0060] The accumulator device 3 comprises a plurality of accumulator cells 29, each providing a portion of the accumulator device's internal operating voltage. The accumulator cells 29 are grouped together. In the exemplary embodiment, the accumulator device 3 has eight groups, each containing six accumulator cells 29. In this exemplary embodiment, each accumulator cell can provide approximately 1.5V. Overall, the fully charged accumulator device 3 is capable of providing approximately 65V in this exemplary embodiment.

[0061] The accumulator device 3 comprises a data processing unit (CPU) 31, which is suitable for controlling and monitoring the accumulator cells 29 during the supply and charging processes, as well as for providing status information for the headlight 1 via the accumulator interface 19 and the signaling device 22 integrated into the accumulator device. Such status information can, for example, relate to the charge state of the accumulator device 3 or information about whether one or more of the accumulator cells 29 are defective and, if so, which ones are defective. Error messages and warnings, e.g., "insufficient charge" or "overheating," can also be provided. Charging can take place via the accumulator interface 19 or the additional accumulator interface 21 or another interface provided for this purpose.When the accumulator device 3 is connected to the headlight 1, charging can be carried out via the headlight 1 and the accumulator interface 19 if the headlight 1 is supplied by the external mains supply.

[0062] A data processing unit (CPU) 33 is also provided in the headlight 1, which communicates with the data processing unit 31 of the accumulator device 3 via the interfaces 13, 19. The status information of the accumulator device 3 is displayed on the display device 15.

[0063] Figure 3 shows another embodiment of a headlight system. The description focuses on differences from the previously described embodiment.

[0064] The headlight 1 has a further second supply interface 13 for a further external battery supply.

[0065] The headlight system comprises two accumulator devices 3A, 3B, each with a battery interface 19 for providing the supply voltage for the headlight 1, as well as a further battery interface 21 that enables a cascaded connection to additional accumulator devices. However, the accumulator devices 3A, 3B are not cascaded.

[0066] The accumulator interfaces 19 of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B are each connected to one of the second supply interfaces 13 of the headlight 1 by means of a cable connection 23, so that two independent accumulator supplies are applied to the headlight 1.

[0067] The provision of the additional second supply interface 19 allows one of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, which can no longer provide sufficient supply voltage, to be replaced or charged during headlight operation without interrupting headlight operation, since the energy supply is taken over by the other accumulator device 3A, 3B. The discharged accumulator device 3A, 3B can be recharged using a rapid charging device, while the other accumulator device 3A, 3B supplies the headlight 1. The charged accumulator device 3A, 3B takes over the energy supply as soon as the other accumulator device 3A, 3B can no longer provide sufficient supply voltage.By repeatedly charging the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, the operating time of the headlight 1 can be extended without the need to provide a large number of accumulator devices, which represents a significant reduction in the effort required for continuous headlight operation.

[0068] The signaling device 22 of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B comprises a plurality of lights, for example, eight LEDs, arranged in a row. This is also referred to as an LED strip. The signaling device 22 is designed to indicate the state of charge based on the number of illuminated LEDs. The more illuminated LEDs, the higher the state of charge. The number of LEDs can correspond to the number of groups of accumulator cells or the number of accumulator cells, so that each LED can signal the failure or defect of a group or accumulator cell.

[0069] The accumulator devices 3A, 3B each have a accumulator device radio module 43 for data communication between the accumulator devices 3A, 3B and the headlight 1, among each other, and with an external monitoring device 47. The headlight 1 has a headlight radio module 45 for data communication between the accumulator devices 3A, 3B and the headlight 1 and with the external monitoring device 47.

[0070] Communication between the headlight 1 and the battery devices 3A, 3B also takes place via the interfaces 19, 13 of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B and the headlight 1. However, the second supply interface 13 and the battery interface 19 are designed such that data transmission takes place via the headlight radio module 45 and the accumulator device radio module 43, respectively. In other words, these interfaces utilize the functionality of the sockets and the radio modules 43, 45. The power supply is provided via electrically conductive cable connections 23.

[0071] The external monitoring device 47 can be configured, for example, as a tablet, smartphone, or lighting control panel. Suitable software (an app) is installed on the smartphone or tablet. The monitoring device 47 primarily displays transmitted status information from the accumulator devices 3A, 3B and the headlight 1, but can also be used to control these devices by transmitting corresponding control signals to them. Using the monitoring device 47, one or more headlight systems positioned at a distance from one another can be centrally and remotely monitored.

[0072] In this embodiment, data communication between the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, the spotlight 1, and the monitoring device 47 is wireless, for example, via DMX / RDM, WLAN, or Bluetooth. Wired spotlight interfaces and corresponding protocols for data communication can also be used.

[0073] Figure 4 shows another embodiment of a headlight system. The description focuses on differences from the previously described embodiments.

[0074] In this exemplary embodiment, the spotlight 1 can be coupled to another spotlight 1, which is designed as a stage or architectural spotlight, so that the spotlights 1 can be powered by the same external battery supply. The spotlights 1 each have a further second supply interface 19, which are connected to one another by a cable connection 35 or other suitable means for coupling the spotlights 1. The second supply interface 19 of one of the two spotlights 1 is connected to the battery device 3, which supplies both spotlights 1. Nevertheless, the energy supply of both spotlights 1 is alternatively possible via the first supply interface 11 of one of the spotlights 1, as indicated by the supply cable 27. In such an operating mode, the battery device 3 can also be charged via the spotlights 1.

[0075] Figure 5shows an embodiment of a plurality of accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C, by means of which the headlight 1 (in Figure 5 (not shown) in a headlight system. To avoid repetition, only differences from the previous embodiments are described.

[0076] By way of example, a first, a second, and a third accumulator device 3A, 3B, 3C are shown. In this exemplary embodiment, each of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C has two carrying handles 25 on the top of the housing, which is more space-saving than the previous exemplary embodiment. The first accumulator device 3A is connected to the headlight 1 by means of a plugged-in cable connection 23, as previously described (in Figure 5not shown). The accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C are connected together in a cascaded manner. The cascaded accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C are connected in series, so that the first is connected to the second and the second is connected to the third. This cascading forms an accumulator device chain and can be continued for further accumulator devices. The connection between the cascaded accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C can be made by short cable connections 35 or by plug bridges 37. An electrically conductive connection between the accumulator interface 19 of the second accumulator device 3B and the further accumulator interface 21 of the first accumulator device 3A is made in this exemplary embodiment, for example, via a cable connection 35 with plugs.An electrically conductive connection between the accumulator interface 19 of the third accumulator device 3C and the further accumulator interface 21 of the second accumulator 3B is established, for example, via a fixed connector with plugs, also referred to as a plug bridge 37. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C to have interfaces that directly interlock to establish the electrically conductive connection.

[0077] Defective groups of accumulator cells or defective accumulator cells 28 in the first and third accumulator devices 3A, 3C are in Figure 3 marked with cross-hatching. Furthermore, the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, and 3C have different charge levels, which are indicated by different hatching.

[0078] The status information of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C is recorded by their data processing units 31 and transmitted to the data processing unit 33 of the headlight 1. This can be done, for example, within the framework of a suitable master-slave protocol with the data processing unit 33 of the headlight 1 as the master and the data processing units 31 of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C as slaves. Each of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C has an identification number assigned during production, which enables unambiguous assignment during data communication.

[0079] Based on the information about the states of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C, their targeted control is possible for optimized energy supply to the headlight 1. The headlight 1 can, for example, control the energy supply such that the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C are discharged one after the other. Alternatively, the energy supply can also be provided simultaneously by all accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C. During the supply, different charge levels of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C can be taken into account, for example, by discharging in such a way that the charge levels are first equalized. However, it is preferred that the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C are discharged one after the other, starting with the accumulator device that has the lowest charge level.

[0080] Charging of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C can be accomplished, for example, by a car battery. Of course, charging can also be accomplished via the mains supply using a power adapter or a charger. Charging of the cascaded accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C typically occurs simultaneously. The data processing unit 31 of the accumulator devices conveniently monitors and regulates the charging process to prevent overcharging.

[0081] If an error or defect occurs in one of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C, this is indicated by the signaling device 22. More detailed information about this is provided, for example, on the display device 15 of the headlight 1 or via its data interface 18.

[0082] Figure 6shows a further embodiment of a plurality of accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C, which, however, are not yet connected to one another but have merely been prepared for transport. A transport device 41 is provided for the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C, which in this embodiment is trough-shaped with two handles on the edge. Alternative embodiments of such a transport device for several accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C are, for example, racks or baskets, by means of which several accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C can be carried and transported. The transport device can also serve as a holding device in which the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C are positioned after the headlight system has been assembled and during its operation. Such a transport and / or holding device facilitates the transport and / or positioning of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B, 3C.

[0083] One embodiment of a transport device is a flight case. Such a flight case is a sturdy transport box with a hinged lid and wheels, in which several rechargeable battery devices 3A, 3B, 3C can be transported. Using connectors and plug strips within the box, the rechargeable battery devices 3A, 3B, 3C can be cascaded together in the box, so that they can remain in the box during operation and charging, and only the spotlight 1 needs to be connected. In one embodiment, a connection device is provided on the box, which is connected to one of the rechargeable battery interfaces 19 of the cascaded rechargeable battery devices 3A, 3B, 3C and serves as an interface for connecting the spotlight 1 or for charging and testing the rechargeable battery devices 3A, 3B, 3C in the box.Simultaneous testing of the battery devices 3A, 3B, and 3C in the box for functionality and charge status is possible via the interface on the box. Any error messages can be easily assigned to the affected battery device using the signaling device 22.

[0084] Of course, it is also possible to supply not only one but several headlights with one or more accumulator devices as described above, which are connected to each other and controlled in a suitable manner, for example in cascade.

[0085] Figure 7 shows another embodiment of a headlight system. The description focuses on differences from the previously described embodiments.

[0086] The headlight system comprises a headlight 1 and two cascaded accumulator devices 3A, 3B in a battery device chain. The accumulator devices 3A, 3B can be stacked one above the other. The headlight 1 can be stacked on top of such an accumulator device 3A, 3B. In the headlight system shown, the accumulator devices 3A, 3B are stacked one above the other and the headlight 1 is placed on the upper accumulator device, resulting in a stack as a space-saving and compact arrangement. In one embodiment, the headlight 1 and the accumulator devices 3A, 3B can be locked as a stack, allowing the headlight system to be operated in a suspended position.

[0087] The top and bottom sides of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B as well as the bottom side of the headlight 1 are shaped in such a way that they can advantageously be placed on top of one another in a form-fitting manner, for example in that, in the case of stacked components, elevations of one component engage in corresponding recesses of the other component.

[0088] The accumulator devices 3A, 3B are designed to be placed beneath the spotlight 1. Their base areas correspond to that of the spotlight 1 and are approximately 300 mm x 300 mm in size, for example. An exemplary height of the accumulator devices 3A, 3B is approximately 120 mm. This allows the accumulator devices 3A, 3B to be positioned unobtrusively and, if necessary, stacked beneath the spotlight 1. The accumulator devices 3A, 3B are designed to accommodate various spotlight types. The base areas and positive connections are adapted to accommodate multiple spotlight types.

[0089] The headlight 1 and the accumulator devices 3A, 3B are connected to each other by means of jumpers 37. Therefore, the accumulator interface 19 and the further accumulator interface 21 are arranged one below the other.

[0090] Other means, such as a cable connection, are also suitable for connection. In such embodiments, the battery interface 19 and the further battery interface 21 can be arranged side by side, as in the previously shown embodiments.

[0091] In this exemplary embodiment, battery device radio modules 43 and a headlight radio module 45 are also provided, enabling wireless data transmission. The second supply interface 13 and the battery interface 19 are configured such that data transmission occurs via the headlight radio module 45 and the battery device radio module 43, respectively. Power is supplied via an electrically conductive connection, in this case via the connector bridge 37.

[0092] The features specified above, those in the claims, and those evident from the illustrations can be advantageously implemented both individually and in various combinations. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but can be modified in many ways within the scope of expert knowledge. Reference symbol

[0093] 1 Headlight 3, 3A, 3B, 3C Battery 5 Base 7 Bracket 9 Head 11 First supply interface 13 Second supply interface 15 Display device 17 User interface 18 Data interface 19 Battery interface 21 Further battery interface 22 Signaling device 23, 35 Cable connection 25 Carrying handle 27 Supply cable 28, 29 Battery cell 31, 33 Data processing unit 37 Connector bridge 41 Carrying device 43 Battery device radio module 45 Headlight radio module 47 Monitoring device

Claims

1. A spotlight system, comprising a spotlight (1) configured as a stage or architectural spotlight, which comprises at least one first supply interface (11) for an external mains supply and at least one second supply interface (13) for an external storage battery supply, and an external storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) comprising at least one storage battery interface (19, 21) for providing a supply voltage for the spotlight (1), wherein the storage battery interface (19, 21) is or can be connected to the second supply interface (13), wherein the second supply interface (13) and the storage battery interface (19, 21) are configured for data communication from the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) to the spotlight (1).

2. The spotlight system according to claim 1, wherein the second supply interface (13) and the storage battery interface (19, 21) are configured for bidirectional data communication between the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) and the spotlight (1).

3. The spotlight system according to either claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the spotlight (1) is configured to switch between the mains supply by means of the first supply interface (11) and the storage battery supply by means of the second supply interface (13).

4. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an external storage battery supply can be connected to each of the second supply interfaces (13) of the spotlight (1).

5. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the spotlight (1) can be coupled to at least one further spotlight (1) configured as a stage or architectural spotlight, such that the spotlights (1) can be supplied by the same external storage battery supply.

6. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein either a spotlight (1) or a further storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) can be connected to the storage battery interfaces (19, 21).

7. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) is one of a plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C) which are or can be cascade-connected to one another and the storage battery interfaces (19, 21) are configured for data communication between the storage battery devices (3, 3A, 3B, 3C).

8. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a mains voltage can be applied to the first supply interface (11), said voltage being greater than the supply voltage that is provided by the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) or by the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C) and that can be applied to the second supply interface (13).

9. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) is a nickel-metal hydride storage battery device.

10. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) comprises a storage battery device radio module (43) configured for data communication from the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) to the spotlight (1) and / or to an external monitoring device (47) and / or to a further storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C), and / or wherein the spotlight (1) comprises a spotlight radio module (45) configured for data communication from the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) to the spotlight (1) and / or to the external monitoring device (47).

11. The spotlight system according to any of claims 7 to 10, wherein the data communication comprises the provision of state information about the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) or the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C).

12. The spotlight system according to claim 11, wherein the state information comprises the state of charge of the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) or the states of charge of the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C) and / or information about defects or faults in the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) or in the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C).

13. The spotlight system according to either claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) comprises a signaling device (22) for the state information.

14. The spotlight system according to any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the spotlight (1) comprises a user interface (17) for controlling the spotlight (1) and / or wherein the spotlight (1) comprises a display device (15) for outputting the state information and / or a data interface (18) for providing the state information.

15. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) comprises a data processing unit (31) which is configured to monitor the storage battery state and to communicate with a data processing unit (33) of the spotlight (1) and / or to communicate with a further storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C).

16. The spotlight system according to any of claims 7 to 15, wherein the spotlight (1) is configured to control the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) or the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C).

17. The spotlight system according to any of claims 7 to 16, further comprising a holding device (41) for the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C) and / or a carrying or transporting device (25, 41) for the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) or the plurality of storage battery devices (3A, 3B, 3C).

18. The spotlight system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) is configured such that it can be stacked on another storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C) and / or wherein the spotlight (1) is configured such that it can be stacked on the storage battery device (3, 3A, 3B, 3C).