Light source and method for operating a light source

Abstract

The invention relates to a light source (1) comprising at least one light-emitting component (11, 13, 15), in particular a component emitting ultraviolet light, and / or a semiconductor component, and a line system (103) through which a cooling fluid can flow in a flow direction (F) in order to control the temperature of the at least one light-emitting component, and a first and a second cooling fluid pressure sensor (21, 22), which are arranged in the line system (103) one behind the other in the flow direction (F); and an electronic unit (3) connected to the first and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor (21, 22), which electronic unit is designed to determine at least one diagnosis value, open-loop control value and / or closed-loop control value on the basis of pressures (p1, p2) detected by the first cooling fluid pressure sensor (21) and by the second cooling fluid pressure sensor (22).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a light source and a method for operating a light source. A light source comprises at least one light-emitting component, in particular an ultraviolet light-emitting component and / or a semiconductor component, as well as a conduit system through which a cooling fluid can flow in one flow direction for controlling the temperature of the at least one light-emitting component.

[0002] US 2010 / 196622 A1 discloses a portable lamp for ultraviolet and visible light (UVA / IS) with a plurality of UVA / IS light emitting diodes as radiation sources.

[0003] CN 204 962 677 U discloses a water cooling system.

[0004] CN 106 051 650 A discloses a cooling water machine for UV (ultraviolet) curing devices.

[0005] WO 2009 / 035238 A2 discloses a cooling device for lamps with light-emitting diodes, which consists of a series of cooling water tanks containing a circulation pump and a temperature sensor.

[0006] JP 2011 150862 A discloses a cooling device for an LED light source, in particular a cooling device for an LED light source which is used for curing ultraviolet-curing ink.

[0007] DE 10 2006 016529 A1 discloses a semiconductor radiation source with high output power density having a carrier cooled by a coolant flow.

[0008] WO 2016 / 115299 A1 discloses an intelligent distribution system for a light source, a light source with an intelligent distribution system, and associated operating methods. The intelligent distribution system is provided with at least one sensor for detecting a characteristic variable of the cooling fluid within the distribution system and with a microprocessor that processes the sensor data. The intelligent sensor arrangement can, for example, detect an inlet flow rate of the cooling fluid, an outlet flow rate of the cooling fluid, the pH value of the cooling fluid, a pressure of the cooling fluid, an inlet temperature of the cooling fluid, an outlet temperature of the cooling fluid, an ambient temperature of the system, or the like. Based on the detected variable, the cooling fluid flow can be regulated, for example, in order to temperature-control the lamp system or to optimally control a switch-on process.For this purpose, WO 2016 / 115299 A1 proposes, in particular, the use of temperature and flow sensors at the inlet and outlet of the distributor. Furthermore, WO 2016 / 115299 A1 proposes leak detection based on pressure measurement in the distributor system. The use of different sensors for different cooling fluid sizes allows precise detection of various system states and has therefore proven to be ideally suited for precise control of the temperature of lamp systems. For some applications, there is a desire for an alternative solution for a light source and an associated operating method that does not necessarily require high-precision control, but enables the most efficient and safe operation possible using simple and / or cost-effective means.In particular, the use of error-prone moving parts, such as springs, flaps, and / or measuring forks, should be avoided. This problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 1.

[0009] Accordingly, a light source is provided that comprises at least one light-emitting component and a conduit system through which cooling fluid can flow in one flow direction for controlling the temperature of the at least one light-emitting component. The light-emitting component can, in particular, be an ultraviolet light-emitting component. Alternatively or additionally, the light-emitting component can be a semiconductor component.

[0010] According to the invention, the light source comprises a first cooling fluid pressure sensor and a second cooling fluid pressure sensor. The first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor are arranged one behind the other in the flow direction in the line system. The first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor are arranged at different locations in the line system. Such a measurement setup can be implemented particularly simply and cost-effectively. Retrofitting existing light sources is easy to implement. The measurement setup is suitable for tolerating different, in particular varying, for example fluctuating, pump outputs. The measurement setup exhibits a low dependence on the length of the lines between the light source, in particular its distribution block, and the pump or the like.

[0011] Furthermore, the light source according to the invention comprises an electronics unit connected to the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor. The connection of the electronics unit to the cooling fluid pressure sensors is an electrical, in particular data-transmitting, connection, which can be designed to transmit analog and / or digital data. The electronics unit is configured to determine at least one diagnostic, control, and / or regulating value based on the pressures detected by the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor.

[0012] The electronic unit can in particular be configured to form a difference value based on the pressures detected by the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor. For example, the electronic unit can be configured to determine a pressure difference between the first cooling fluid pressure detected by the first pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure detected by the second cooling fluid pressure sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic unit can be configured to detect electrical, in particular digital and / or analog, measurement signals relating to the first cooling fluid pressure at the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure at the second cooling fluid pressure sensor and to form a difference based on the measured values ​​from the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor. Depending on the measurement signals from the cooling fluid pressure sensors, i.e.: the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor as well as any further cooling fluid pressure sensors and / or any other sensors, the electronic unit can determine a diagnostic, control and / or regulating value.

[0013] A diagnostic value can, for example, be a warning message, a status message, or an error message. The output of a diagnostic value, in particular an error message or a warning message, can occur on a dedicated data transmission path, in particular a dedicated data transmission line, exclusively for error and / or warning messages. The electronics unit can, for example, be configured to generate an error message if the first pressure and the second pressure are the same. The electronics unit can, for example, be configured to generate a warning message if the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure lies outside a predetermined permissible pressure difference range. The electronics unit can be configured to initiate an emergency shutdown of the light source in response to an error message.The thermal capacity of the components acting as heat exchangers, such as the distribution block and / or the support elements, which are made of a metal such as aluminum, copper, or the like, provides sufficient protection against a sudden temperature increase of the light-emitting components until the power control reacts.

[0014] The electronics unit can, in particular, be configured to output a status message as a diagnostic value indicating the presence of a minimum required flow rate or a minimum required difference for operating the light source between the first and the second cooling fluid pressure or pressure value. For example, the electronics unit can be configured to output a status message, in the absence of which activation of the light-emitting components is not carried out. As long as the actual difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is less than the minimum required difference, the electronics unit causes the at least one light-emitting component to not be operated. In this way, it can be ensured that, regardless of other parameters, a minimum flow rate prevails in the line system in order to start the at least one light-emitting component in the first place.

[0015] A control and / or regulating value can, for example, be a control value for actuating a cooling fluid actuator, such as a pump, a control valve or the like, in order to influence a flow of the cooling fluid in the line system.

[0016] Based on cooling fluid pressures measured at different points in the piping system, diagnostics, control, and / or regulation for the effective and safe operation of a light source can be achieved particularly easily. For example, a difference in pressure or pressure readings can easily determine whether the cooling fluid flow in the piping system corresponds to a target flow or deviates significantly from it, allowing appropriate corrective and / or emergency measures to be taken.

[0017] According to the invention, the cooling fluid line system comprises a distributor block with a cooling fluid inlet opening and a cooling fluid return opening. The distributor block comprises a first cavity and a further cavity, which are fluidly connected to one another by means of at least one fluid path. The first cavity forms the cooling fluid inlet opening. The second cavity forms the cooling fluid return opening. For example, the first cavity and the further cavity can be connected by means of a number of fluid paths that is equal to, at least equal to, greater than, in particular corresponding to twice the number of light-emitting components of the light source. The first cooling fluid pressure sensor is arranged in the first cavity, and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor is arranged in the second cavity.In such an arrangement, the pressure loss generated by the at least one fluid path between the first cavity and the second cavity can be decisive for a pressure difference. In particular, the line system is designed such that the flow of the cooling fluid occurs in the flow direction from the cooling fluid inlet opening of the distributor block through the first cavity, then through the at least one fluid path, then through the second cavity, and then through the cooling fluid return opening. It may be preferred that the cooling fluid in the line system flows from the first cavity to the further or second cavity exclusively through one fluid path or multiple fluid paths in the flow direction.

[0018] The at least one fluid path and / or the plurality of fluid paths between the first cavity and the further cavity can determine the pressure difference in the cooling fluid between the first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor. In particular, the pressure difference from the first pressure sensor to the second pressure sensor can be determined to at least 90%, in particular at least 95%, preferably at least 99% by the pressure loss due to the flow through the at least one fluid path or the plurality of fluid paths. In particular, the cooling fluid pressure within the first cavity can be constant or essentially constant. In particular, the cooling fluid pressure in the second or further cavity can be essentially constant or constant. A substantially constant cooling fluid pressure within the first cavity orwithin the second cavity can be present if the cooling fluid pressure at the cooling fluid supply or return opening differs relative to the cooling fluid pressure at the point furthest away from the opening within the first or second cavity by less than 10%, in particular less than 5%, preferably less than 1%.

[0019] It may be preferred that the flow cross-section of the first cavity and the flow cross-section of the second cavity are substantially larger than the smallest flow cross-section of the at least one fluid path. For example, the fluid path may have a smallest cross-section that is decisive for the pressure loss, for example in the form of a capillary channel, a branch bore or a branch channel, or the like. The decisive cross-section of the fluid path may be at least 10 times, at least 20 times, at least 50 times, or at least 100 times smaller than the flow cross-section of the first cavity and / or the second cavity. The flow cross-section of the first cavity may be substantially equal to the flow cross-section of the second cavity.The flow cross-section of the first cavity and the flow cross-section of the second cavity may differ from each other by a factor of at most 5, in particular at most 2, preferably at most 1.5, particularly preferably at most 1.1.

[0020] According to a further development of the light source, the first cooling fluid pressure sensor can be arranged at the cooling fluid inlet opening. Alternatively or additionally, the second cooling fluid pressure sensor can be arranged at the cooling fluid return opening. Alternatively or additionally, the first pressure sensor can be arranged at the end of the distributor block opposite the cooling fluid inlet opening or at a location farthest from the cooling fluid inlet opening within the first cavity. Alternatively or additionally, the second pressure sensor can be arranged at the end of the distributor block opposite the cooling fluid return opening or at a location farthest from the cooling fluid return opening within the second cavity.

[0021] The cooling fluid line system can comprise at least one first carrier element that forms at least one fluid path, at least in sections. The at least one first light-emitting semiconductor component is fastened to the first carrier element. In particular, the light source can comprise a number of carrier elements corresponding to the number of light-emitting components. Preferably, the number of carrier elements is equal to the number of light-emitting components. The at least one carrier element can be fastened detachably or permanently to the distributor block. For example, a carrier element can be detachably screwed to the distributor block. It is conceivable for a carrier element to be permanently soldered, welded, and / or riveted to the distributor block.

[0022] The fluid path between the first cavity and the second cavity is preferably realized by a first branch channel in the distributor block, a through section in the carrier element and a second line section in the distributor block. In particular, the at least one first branch channel can extend from the first cavity to the carrier element. In particular, the at least one second branch channel can extend from the at least one carrier element to the further cavity. In particular, the fluid path can consist of at least one first branch channel, at least one through section and at least one second branch channel. A fluid path can consist of exactly one, exactly two or more first branch channels in the distributor block, exactly one, exactly two or more second branch channels in the distributor block and exactly one, exactly two or more through sections in the carrier element.Each individual support element of a light source can form exactly one passage section, exactly two passage sections, or multiple passage sections. The passage section in the support element can be formed by one or more heat exchanger channels, in particular formed in the support element. A light source comprising a plurality of support elements can be equipped with a number of first branch channels for each individual support element in the distribution block that is exactly the same as the number or twice the number of support elements, or at least as large as the number of support elements. A light source comprising a plurality of support elements can be equipped with a number of second branch channels for each individual support element in the distribution block that is exactly the same as the number or twice the number of support elements, or at least as large as the number of support elements.In particular, the number of first branch channels and second branch channels is the same.

[0023] According to one embodiment of a light source, the first cooling fluid pressure sensor and / or the second cooling fluid pressure sensor detects a pressure measurement value of the cooling fluid and provides a corresponding electrical, in particular digital and / or analog, pressure measurement signal to the electronics unit. The first cooling fluid pressure sensor provides a first electrical pressure measurement signal. The second cooling fluid pressure sensor provides a second electrical pressure measurement signal. Preferably, the pressure measurement signal can correspond to the pressure measurement value such that the pressure measurement signal is a current or voltage signal that is proportional to the pressure measurement value. The pressure measurement signal of the cooling fluid pressure sensor can preferably correspond to the pressure measurement value such that a constant proportionality factor can be defined, which, when multiplied by the measured cooling fluid pressure or pressure measurement value, results in the respective pressure measurement signal (in particular a voltage signal or current signal).The electronics unit may comprise at least one analog-to-digital converter for converting a current signal or a voltage signal into a digital signal. The electronics unit may comprise a microcontroller and / or microprocessor capable of processing a pressure measurement signal, in particular a current or voltage signal, that has been converted from analog to digital.

[0024] According to one embodiment of a light source, the electronics unit has a flow control and / or regulating device which is designed to define a flow of the cooling fluid in the flow direction through the line system. The flow of the cooling fluid can be defined, for example, as a flow rate, for example as a volume flow (e.g. in L / min or m³ / s). For example, in the case of a light source with a predetermined maximum output power, a target flow of the cooling fluid for controlling the temperature of the light source, in particular of the at least one light-emitting component, can be defined such that, at maximum nominal power of the at least one light-emitting component, the flow is at least large enough to prevent overheating of the light-emitting component. For example, depending on the luminous output of the at least one light-emitting component and the corresponding power loss orThe flow rate of the cooling fluid can be adjusted depending on the heat output of the light source and the light source-specific cooling fluid temperature at the cooling fluid inlet opening.

[0025] In particular, the carrier element can be cooled with a cooling power for dissipating the heat output of the light-emitting component in a range from 100 to 5000 W, preferably 100 to 3000 W, more preferably 200 to 2000 W. For example, the carrier element can be cooled with a cooling power for dissipating the heat output of the light-emitting component in a range from 100 to 1000 W, preferably 100 to 500 W, more preferably 200 to 400 W. Alternatively, the carrier element can be cooled with a cooling power for dissipating the heat output of the light-emitting component in a range from 500 to 5000 W, preferably 1000 to 3000 W, more preferably 1500 to 2000 W. If the light source includes at least one further carrier element, each further carrier element is preferably cooled with a cooling capacity in one of the above ranges.

[0026] For example, a flow control device can comprise a pump for conveying the cooling fluid according to a flow rate that is greater than or equal to the desired flow rate. Alternatively or additionally, a flow control device can be a throttle and / or a valve, in particular a balancing valve, for example a so-called Taco-Setter valve, as described in DE 20 2013 001 744 U1, in order to set a particularly maximum desired flow rate. In particular, a flow control device can comprise a pump which is designed to convey cooling fluid through the line system according to its maximum nominal pumping capacity, and a throttle and / or a valve, in particular a balancing valve, which sets the flow in the line system according to a desired flow rate, in particular limits a highest possible flow rate.

[0027] According to a further development, the electronics unit comprises a flow control and / or regulating device having a pump with a flow rate for pumping the cooling fluid through the line system. The flow control and / or regulating device is configured to adjust the flow rate of the pump, taking into account a target temperature of the light-emitting component, for a minimum target cooling fluid flow rate. In particular, the flow control and / or regulating device is configured to adjust the minimum target cooling fluid flow rate depending on a diagnostic, control, and / or regulating value.For example, the flow control and / or regulating device can be configured to set the pump to a delivery rate equal to or less than its nominal maximum pump rate, wherein in particular the flow control and / or regulating device can be configured to set the delivery rate based on a diagnostic, control and / or regulating value of the electronics unit, in particular so that the temperature control of the at least one light-emitting component corresponds to a target temperature control. For example, the flow control and / or regulating device can control at least one fluid actuator, such as a pump, a throttle or a valve, by comparing a measured value and / or a diagnostic, control and / or regulating value, an actual value with a target value related to the target temperature control, in order to define a position value for the actuator.For example, the flow control and / or regulation device can communicate with the electronic unit in a signal transmission manner or be formed in functional union.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the light source, the electronics unit comprises at least one power electronics unit for adjusting the luminous output of the at least one light-emitting component or the plurality of light-emitting components, wherein the electronics unit is configured to determine the at least one diagnostic, control, and / or regulating value based on the luminous output. Alternatively or additionally, the flow control and / or regulating device can be configured to define the flow of the cooling fluid through the conduit system based on the luminous output. Power electronics can be provided, in particular, in a light source with one or more light-emitting semiconductor components.The power electronics can set the luminous output of the at least one light-emitting component to its maximum nominal luminous output or a lower luminous output, wherein a lower than the maximum nominal luminous output corresponds to a dimmed luminous output. It should be understood that the power loss or heat output correlates with the set luminous output. For a light source operated with a dimmed luminous output, only a reduced flow of cooling fluid may be required to achieve a target temperature of the at least one light-emitting component. The power electronics and the flow control and / or regulating device can be coordinated such that a corresponding reduction in the cooling fluid flow is defined for a dimmed luminous output, or vice versa.The electronic unit can be configured to take into account, when the light output is dimmed and / or the flow rate is reduced, the dimmed light output and / or the reduced flow rate for determining the diagnostic, control, and / or regulating value. For example, the electronic unit can take into account that, when the flow rate is reduced, a correspondingly reduced pressure difference between the first cooling fluid pressure and the second cooling fluid pressure is to be expected. For example, when the light output is dimmed, the electronic unit can tolerate other, particularly larger, deviations from a target pressure difference for determining the diagnostic, control, and / or regulating value.For example, the electronic unit can be configured to tolerate, at a predetermined proportionately dimmed luminous power, a permissible maximum difference between the first cooling fluid pressure and the second cooling fluid pressure, which difference is changed by a tolerance factor corresponding to the predetermined proportion, without generating a diagnostic value, such as a warning message or an error message, and / or without generating control values ​​or regulating values ​​adapted to the tolerance factor.

[0029] The electronics unit can be configured to adjust a pressure threshold, such as a minimum threshold and / or a maximum threshold, depending on a set luminous power, corresponding to a particularly dimmed luminous power setting. The electronics unit and the power electronics can be coupled to one another for signal transmission or formed in a functional union. The power electronics and the flow control and / or regulating device can be connected to one another for signal transmission or formed in a functional union. The electronics unit, flow control and / or regulating device, and power electronics can be coupled to one another for signal transmission or formed in a functional union.

[0030] The invention also relates to a method for operating a light source. The method is provided for operating a light source comprising at least one light-emitting component, in particular an ultraviolet light-emitting component or a semiconductor component, wherein the at least one light-emitting component is temperature-controlled by means of a cooling fluid, the cooling fluid being conveyed through a conduit system. The light source can, in particular, be designed as described above.

[0031] According to the invention, at least a first pressure of the cooling fluid is detected at a first location in the line system, and a second pressure of the cooling fluid is detected at a second location in the line system. According to the operating method according to the invention, a diagnostic, control, and / or regulating value is determined based on the first pressure and the second pressure. For example, based on the known characteristic parameters of the light source and its line system, an actual cooling fluid flow in the line system can be calculated based on the first pressure and the second pressure.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the method for operating a light source comprises defining a flow of the cooling fluid in the flow direction through the conduit system. In particular, a minimum desired cooling fluid flow rate can be set taking into account a desired temperature of the light-emitting component. The desired cooling fluid flow rate can be configured such that the flow rate of the cooling fluid through the conduit system is defined such that a flow rate is provided that is no more than sufficient to prevent a maximum desired temperature, in particular a maximum temperature, of the light-emitting component from being exceeded.For example, a light source can be operated by operating a pump with a flow rate that is at least as high as or higher than the flow rate required to ensure at least sufficient flow in the flow direction through the line system. Alternatively or additionally, a maximum nominal flow rate of the pump can be set, wherein in particular a throttle, a valve, for example a control valve, a balancing valve, or the like, is set such that the flow of the cooling fluid through the line system is set as low as possible in order to still ensure the target temperature control of the at least one light-emitting component of the light source.

[0033] According to one embodiment of a method for operating a light source, which can be combined with the previous ones, a diagnostic value, in particular a status message, a warning message, or an error message, is output when the first pressure and the second pressure are equal or substantially equal. A substantially equal pressure can be present when the difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is not greater than 0.5 bar, in particular not greater than 0.25 bar, preferably not greater than 0.1 bar. If the first pressure and the second pressure are equal or substantially equal, an error message can be output indicating that there is no flow or a critically low flow.It is clear to the person skilled in the art that the difference between a first pressure and a second pressure, which are recorded at different points in a pipe system, correlates to the flow in the pipe system, so that in the case of a critically small or non-existent difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, conclusions can be drawn about a vanishing or non-existent actual flow.

[0034] It is conceivable that in the method for operating a light source, a shutdown of at least one light-emitting component, in particular of the entire light source, is initiated in response to the output of a diagnostic value, in particular an error value or a status message. The diagnostic value can be output in response to the detection of the first pressure and the second pressure determining that the pressure difference is too small. Upon receipt of a predetermined diagnostic value, such as an error value or error signal, the operating method can initiate an emergency shutdown of the light-emitting components in order to prevent or at least reduce the risk of, in particular, irreparable damage to one or more light-emitting components.

[0035] According to one embodiment of a method for operating a light source, which can be combined with the previous ones, a diagnostic value can be output, in particular a warning message or a warning value, if a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure falls below a minimum threshold and / or exceeds a maximum threshold. The method for operating a light source can comprise predetermining a minimum threshold related to the specific light source and / or a maximum threshold related to the specific light source for a permissible difference between the first or second pressure, in particular a pressure difference or a pressure measurement difference. The maximum threshold and / or the minimum threshold can be determined by means of a calibration routine or based on calculated theoretical values ​​or based on table values ​​or the like.In the method for operating the light source, an electronic unit can, in particular, check whether the difference is greater than a maximum threshold and / or whether the difference is smaller than a minimum threshold. If the difference is smaller than the minimum or minimum threshold and / or if the difference is greater than the maximum threshold, a diagnostic value can, in particular, be output by the electronic unit. For example, a warning message can be output as a diagnostic value in order to trigger measures that cause the first pressure and / or the second pressure to change in such a way that the difference (again) becomes smaller than the maximum threshold or greater than the minimum threshold.For example, if the minimum threshold is undershot, a diagnostic value or control value can be output which, for example, causes the delivery rate of a pump to be increased in order to increase the flow and the corresponding difference between the first and second pressure.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, a warning message can be issued to prompt manual intervention, such as maintenance work or the like. It is conceivable that if a particularly second minimum threshold value is undershot, a diagnostic value, such as a warning message or an error message, is issued which prompts measures in response to a leak in the piping system. For example, a target difference can be predetermined, in particular dependent on a luminous intensity and / or a target flow, wherein a deviation of the actual difference between the first pressure currently detected by the first pressure sensor and the first pressure currently detected by the first pressure sensor from the target difference represents a deviation of ±30% or more, in particular ±50% or more, preferably ±75% or more.Relative to a target difference, particularly one set depending on a luminous intensity and / or a target flow, the minimum threshold can be, for example, 75% of the target difference, 50% of the target difference, or 30% of the target difference or less. Relative to a target difference, particularly one set depending on a luminous intensity and / or a target flow, the maximum threshold can be, for example, 130%, 150%, 200%, or more of the target difference.

[0037] According to one embodiment of a method for operating a light source, which can be combined with the previous ones, the luminous output of the at least one light-emitting component can be adjusted. In particular, the luminous output of different light-emitting components can preferably be adjusted differently, wherein the diagnostic, control and / or regulating value is determined on the basis of the luminous output or luminous outputs. Alternatively or additionally, a flow rate, in particular the target flow rate, can be adjusted on the basis of the luminous output. For example, the luminous output of the at least one light-emitting component can be reduced or dimmed, which can be adjusted in particular by the electronic unit by adjusting the diagnostic, control and / or regulating value based on the luminous output.

[0038] It is clear that the light source according to the invention can be configured to be operated according to the method according to the invention. It is clear that the method according to the invention can be carried out with the previously described light source and, if appropriate, its above-described, particularly optional, components. It is clear that the method according to the invention can be carried out for operating a light source described above.

[0039] The invention can optionally be implemented in a printing press comprising a light source according to the invention. Any type of printing press suitable for using the light source according to the invention is considered. A preferred printing press is designed to carry out the method according to the invention.

[0040] In one embodiment of the printing press, the light source in the printing press can be arranged and configured to irradiate a composition printed on a printing substrate. Optionally, the printing press can be configured to process a composition, wherein the composition is a printing ink or a varnish, or both. A printing press, in particular one without a print image memory, can be configured for contactless printing (non-impact printing - NIP). A preferred printing press without a print image memory is an inkjet printer or a laser printer, or both.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, the printing press includes a print image storage device. A preferred print image storage device is a printing roller or a printing plate.

[0042] The printing press can be arranged and configured for indirect printing using the print image memory. A preferred printing press for indirect printing is an offset printing press. A preferred offset printing press is a sheet-fed offset printing press. light source

[0043] Within the scope of the invention, any device designed to emit electromagnetic radiation that appears suitable to a person skilled in the art for use according to the invention, preferably for use in a printing press, can be considered as a light source. In addition to visible light, the term electromagnetic radiation also encompasses components of the electromagnetic spectrum that are invisible to the human eye. Preferred electromagnetic radiation lies in the wavelength range from 10 nm to 1 mm. Further preferred electromagnetic radiation is infrared radiation (IR radiation) or ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation), or a mixture of both. According to the DIN 5031-7 standard, the wavelength range of UV radiation extends from 10 to 380 nm. By definition, UV-A radiation lies in the range from 315 to 380 nm, UV-B radiation in the range from 280 to 315 nm, UV-C radiation in the range from 100 to 280 nm, and EUV radiation in the range from 10 to 121 nm.Within the scope of the invention, UV radiation selected from the group consisting of UV-A radiation, UV-B radiation, and UV-C radiation, or a combination of at least two thereof, is particularly preferred. It should be noted that, although the aforementioned standard defines the wavelength ranges of UV radiation, in the technical field of LEDs, which, as described below, are preferred light-emitting semiconductor components within the scope of the invention, LEDs with maximum emitted intensity (also referred to in the technical field as "UV-C") are also considered. Peak wavelengthcalled) at wavelengths that do not lie within the wavelength ranges specified in the standard are referred to as UV-LEDs. For example, LEDs with maxima of emitted intensity at wavelengths of 385 nm, 395 nm and 405 nm are also referred to as UV-A LEDs. Within the scope of the invention, such LEDs are also among the preferred light-emitting semiconductor components. Furthermore, the terminology of the technical field is adopted here and such LEDs are also referred to as UV-LEDs. A preferred light source contains an LED module or is an LED module. An LED module preferably contains a circuit board on which several LEDs are arranged. The LEDs can each be equipped with an optical system. Furthermore, an optical system can also be assigned to several LEDs. An optical system here is an element that is arranged and designed to manipulate electromagnetic radiation. Both optical components and optical assemblies are possible.A preferred optic is one selected from the group consisting of a transmission optic, a conversion optic, and a reflection optic, or a combination of at least two thereof. A transmission optic is an optic through which the electromagnetic radiation passes in order to manipulate it. A preferred transmission optic is a lens or a transmission grating. A conversion optic is an optic arranged and designed to change a wavelength of electromagnetic radiation. In the case of an LED, this can preferably be used to adjust a color of the light emitted by the LED. A preferred conversion optic is a conversion layer, i.e. a layer containing at least one fluorescent dye. A reflection optic is an optic that reflects the electromagnetic radiation in order to manipulate it, in particular a propagation direction of the electromagnetic radiation.A preferred reflection optic is a mirror or a reflection grating. The light source preferably further includes a ballast arranged and configured to operate the LED module. A preferred ballast is an LED driver. Light-emitting semiconductor component

[0044] Any component containing a semiconductor that appears suitable to a person skilled in the art as a light-emitting component of the light source according to the invention can be considered as a light-emitting semiconductor component. Light-emitting semiconductor components include, in particular, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes (also called semiconductor lasers), with light-emitting diodes being particularly preferred here. A particularly preferred LED is an IR LED or a UV LED, or both. A preferred UV LED is one selected from the group consisting of a UV-A LED, a UV-B LED, and a UV-C LED, or a combination of at least two thereof. Support element

[0045] Any component that appears suitable to a person skilled in the art for use in a light source according to the invention can be considered as a support element. A preferred support element is plate-shaped, i.e., designed as a support plate. A particularly preferred support element is a cooling plate. A plate is referred to herein as a sheet-like element whose thickness is at least a factor of 2, more preferably at least 5, smaller than its length and width at every point. The support element preferably consists of at least 80 wt.%, more preferably at least 90 wt.%, even more preferably at least 95 wt.% of a material with a thermal conductivity of at least 50 W / (m K), more preferably at least 100 W / (m K), even more preferably at least 200 W / (m K), and most preferably at least 230 W / (m K). The support element preferably contains at least 80 wt.%, more preferably at least 90 wt.%, even more preferably at least 95 wt.% of a metal.A preferred metal is copper or aluminum or an alloy containing one or both of the aforementioned metals. In a preferred embodiment, the aforementioned material forms a base body of the carrier element, which may additionally have one or more coatings. A preferred coating consists of a metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, palladium, and gold, or of an alloy containing at least one of the aforementioned metals. If the carrier element contains multiple coatings, these overlay the base body from the base body outwards, preferably in the aforementioned order. The layer sequences base body, nickel coating, gold coating and also base body, nickel coating, palladium coating, gold coating are particularly preferred. The carrier element particularly preferably has the aforementioned coatings at least on the side of its carrier surface.The elements referred to herein as carrier elements are preferably not a substrate or circuit board of an LED or an LED module. Rather, the carrier element is preferably a component on whose carrier surface a plurality of LEDs or an LED module can be arranged. The carrier surface of a carrier element is preferably designed to be as flat as possible. distribution block

[0046] In principle, any component that appears suitable to a person skilled in the art for the inventive use can be used as a distributor block. The distributor block preferably serves as a distributor for a cooling fluid and as a component that supports the first support element and any further support elements of the light source according to the invention. For this purpose, the distributor block preferably has electrical connections and also connections for an inlet and a return line for a cooling fluid. The aforementioned connections are preferably located on one or both end faces of the distributor block. Furthermore, the distributor block preferably contains an inlet and a return line for a cooling fluid. Cooling fluid

[0047] Any fluid considered suitable by a person skilled in the art within the scope of the invention, particularly for cooling the light source according to the invention, can be used as a cooling fluid. A fluid is a flowable medium. This includes, in particular, gases and liquids. A cooling liquid is preferred as the cooling fluid. A preferred cooling liquid comprises water or glycol, or a mixture of both. The cooling liquid preferably consists of water or a water-glycol mixture. Print media

[0048] Any object that appears suitable to a person skilled in the art within the scope of the invention can be considered as a printing medium, also called printing material. A preferred printing medium is flat. This means that a length and a width of the printing medium are greater than a thickness of the printing medium by a factor of at least 10, more preferably at least 100, even more preferably at least 1000. A preferred flat printing medium is web-shaped. This means that a length of the printing medium is greater than a width of the printing medium by a factor of at least 2, more preferably at least 5, even more preferably at least 10, and most preferably at least 100. A preferred printing medium includes, preferably consists of, paper, a film, or a laminate. A preferred laminate includes one or more polymer layers, one or more paper layers, one or more metal layers, or a combination of the aforementioned layers in a layer sequence. Printing ink

[0049] Printing inks are colorant-containing mixtures that have a suitable viscosity for application as a thin layer. In the cured state, the thin layer preferably has a thickness (dry thickness) in a range from 0.5 to 50 µm, preferably from 1 to 30 µm, more preferably from 1 to 20 µm. A preferred printing ink contains one selected from the group consisting of one or more colorants, a binder, a vehicle, and an additive, or a combination of at least two, preferably all, of the aforementioned. A preferred binder is a resin or a polymer, or a mixture of both. A preferred vehicle is a solvent. A preferred additive serves to adjust a desired property of the printing ink, preferably a desired processing property, for example a viscosity of the printing ink.A preferred additive is one selected from the group consisting of a dispersing additive, a defoamer, a wax, a lubricant, and a substrate wetting agent, or a combination of at least two thereof. Furthermore, a preferred printing ink is one selected from the group consisting of a toner, an ink for an inkjet printer, an offset printing ink, a commercial printing ink, a liquid ink, and a radiation-curing printing ink, or a combination of at least two thereof. A preferred offset printing ink is a web offset printing ink or a sheet-fed offset printing ink, or both. A preferred web offset printing ink is a web offset coldset printing ink or a web offset heatset printing ink, or both. A preferred liquid ink is a water-based liquid ink or a solvent-based liquid ink, or both. A particularly preferred printing ink comprises 8 to 15 wt.-% of at least one colorant, preferably at least one pigment, and a total of 25 to 40 wt.% of at least one resin or at least one polymer or a mixture of the two, 30 to 45 wt.% of at least one high-boiling mineral oil (boiling range 250 to 210 °C), and a total of 2 to 8 wt.% of at least one additive, in each case based on the weight of the printing ink. paint

[0050] A paint is a liquid or powder coating material that has a suitable viscosity for application as a thin layer and from which, upon curing, a solid, preferably coherent, film can be obtained. Paints often contain at least one selected from the group consisting of at least one binder, at least one filler, at least one vehicle, at least one colorant, at least one resin and / or at least one acrylate, and at least one additive, or a combination of at least two thereof, with a combination of all of the aforementioned components (with resin and / or acrylate) being preferred. A preferred additive is a biocide. A preferred biocide is an in-can preservative.Lacquers often serve to protect the object they are coated with, to decorate, to functionalize an object's surface, for example, to modify electrical properties or to increase abrasion resistance, or to combine the aforementioned functions. A preferred lacquer within the scope of the invention is one selected from the group consisting of a water-based lacquer, a solvent-based lacquer, a UV-based (i.e., UV-curable) lacquer, and a dispersion lacquer, or a combination of at least two thereof. A particularly preferred lacquer is designed to protect a printed surface. Colorants

[0051] Suitable colorants include both solid and liquid ones known to the person skilled in the art and suitable for the present invention. According to DIN 55943:2001-10, "colorant" is the collective term for all coloring substances, in particular dyes and pigments. A preferred colorant is a pigment. A preferred pigment is an organic pigment. Pigments of particular interest in the context of the invention are, in particular, those mentioned in DIN 55943:2001-10 and in "Industrial Organic Pigments, Third Edition." (Willy Herbst, Klaus Hunger Copyright © 2004 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim ISBN: 3-527-30576-9). A pigment is a colorant that is preferably insoluble in the application medium. A dye is a colorant that is preferably soluble in the application medium. MEASUREMENT METHODS

[0052] Unless otherwise stated, the measurements used in the invention were carried out at an ambient temperature of 23°C, an ambient air pressure of 100 kPa (0.986 atm) and a relative humidity of 50%.

[0053] The invention is illustrated in more detail below by examples and drawings, which do not limit the invention. Furthermore, the drawings are not to scale unless otherwise stated. Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the claims. Particular embodiments and aspects of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a light source according to the invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective sectional view of an exemplary distribution block for a light source according to the invention; and Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a first and a second cooling fluid pressure as a function of the flow rate.

[0054] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a light source 1 according to the invention. The light source 1 comprises an electronics unit connected to a first cooling fluid pressure sensor 21 and a second cooling fluid pressure sensor 22. The light source 1 further comprises a distributor block 10 with a cooling fluid inlet opening 121 and a cooling fluid return opening 122. Light-emitting components 11, 13, 15 are attached to the distributor block. The light source 1 comprises power electronics 7 for adjusting the luminous output of the light-emitting components 11, 13, and 15.

[0055] The light source 1 comprises a conduit system 103 through which the cooling fluid is conveyed in a flow direction F. The cooling fluid is conveyed through the conduit system 103 by means of a flow control and / or regulating device 5, which may comprise a pump 51 and, if appropriate, a throttle and / or a valve 53, such as a control valve or a balancing valve.

[0056] The first pressure sensor 21 can be arranged at the cooling fluid inlet opening 121 of the distribution block 10. The second cooling fluid pressure sensor 22 can be arranged at the cooling fluid return opening 122 of the distribution block. The distribution block 10 is designed as a housing for accommodating the light-emitting semiconductor components 11, 13, 15.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a schematic partial representation of a section of the distribution block of a light source 1 according to the invention according to Figure 1 . in the Figure 2A carrier element 12 is shown that carries one of the light-emitting components 11. The light-emitting component 11 is implemented as an ultraviolet light-emitting semiconductor component, more precisely: an LED module. Figure 2 represents only a first carrier element 12 with a single light-emitting component 11. Referring to Figure 1It should be understood that a light source 1 can comprise a plurality of light-emitting components 11, 13, 15, wherein, in particular, each light-emitting component 11, 12, 13 can be fastened to the distribution block 10 by means of a respective carrier element 12. The first light-emitting semiconductor component 11, which is an LED module 11, is soldered onto the first carrier element 12. The first carrier element 12 can be screwed onto the distribution block 10, for example, using two countersunk screws as fastening means. The first light-emitting semiconductor component 11, the first carrier element 12, and the distribution block 10 overlap one another in the aforementioned order. The LED module 11 includes a substrate made of a ceramic material, onto which a plurality of LED chips are applied, in particular using chip-on-board technology. The LED module 11 is a UV LED module.On the distribution block 10, for example, 28 support elements with 12, each with an LED module 11, 13, 15, are mounted next to one another in its longitudinal direction.

[0058] According to another example, not shown, 16 support elements 12, each with a longitudinal width of 1", can be mounted side by side on the distributor block 10 in its longitudinal direction, each of which supports an LED module 11, 13 or 15. In this example, a target flow of 16 L / min can be provided, whereby a pressure difference Δp of approximately 300 mBar is established between the first cooling fluid pressure p1 measured at the first pressure sensor 21 (e.g. 1.2 bar) and the second cooling fluid pressure p2 measured at the second pressure sensor 22 (e.g. 0.9 bar) (cf. Fig. 3). The diameter of the first channel 501 and / or the second channel 502 may be, for example, 0.75 inches. The diameter of the first branch channel 504 and / or the second branch channel 506 may be, for example, 1.3 mm.

[0059] The Figure 2The schematic cross-sectional view of the distributor block 10 of a light source 1 according to the invention shown shows that the distributor block 10 contains a first cavity 501, which is designed as an inlet for the cooling fluid. The first cavity is formed as a first channel that leads under each of the support elements 12. The distributor block 10 also contains a second cavity 502, which is designed as a return for the cooling fluid. The second cavity 502 is formed as a second channel that leads under each of the support elements 12. A first fluid path 409 leads from the first cavity 501 to the second cavity 502. The cross section of the first cavity 501 and the cross section of the second cavity 502 are the same size. In order to flow from the first cavity 501 to the second cavity 502, the cooling fluid must flow through one of the multiple fluid paths 409 of the distributor block 10.

[0060] A fluid path 409 consists of three sections. The middle section is provided by the carrier body 12. The carrier body 12 comprises a plurality of heat exchanger channels 403 formed below the light-emitting element 11 (or 13, 15) in the carrier body 13. A first branch channel 504 leads from the first cavity 501 to the heat exchanger channels 403. A further first branch channel (not shown) can also be provided in the distributor block 10, which leads from the first cavity 501 to the heat exchanger channels 403 of the carrier element or carrier body 12. The first branch channel and, if applicable, the further first branch channel form the first section of the fluid path 409.

[0061] At least one second branch channel 506 leads from the second cavity 502 to the heat exchanger channels 403 of the carrier body 12. A further second branch channel (not shown in detail) can lead from the second cavity 502 to the heat exchanger channels 403. The at least one first branch channel 504 and the at least one second branch channel 506 are formed in the distributor block 10. The at least one first branch channel 504, the at least one second first branch channel 506, and the at least one heat exchanger channel 403 together form the fluid path 409.

[0062] The flow resistance or pressure loss between the first cooling fluid pressure sensor 21 and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor 22 is largely determined by the hydraulic properties of the fluid path. The hydraulic properties of the fluid path 409 are largely determined by the section with the smallest cross-section. The first section of the fluid path 409 is formed by the first branch channels 504; and the third section of the fluid path 409 is formed by the branch channels 506. The first branch channels 504 and the second branch channels 506 have essentially the same cross-section. The branch channels 504 and 506, respectively, largely determine the hydraulic properties of the fluid path 409. The flow resistance or pressure difference between the first cooling fluid pressure sensor 21 and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor 22 is largely determined by the flow resistance of the at least one first branch channel 504 and the at least one second branch channel 506.

[0063] The heat exchanger channels 403 in the carrier body 12 are delimited, on the one hand, by the carrier body 12 and, on the other hand, by an outer surface of the distributor block 10. A seal 16 is provided between the outer side of the distributor block 10 and the carrier body 12 to prevent a loss of cooling fluid. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the light-emitting components to be attached directly to the distributor block 10 without a carrier body, wherein the fluid path is realized in the distributor block 10 (not shown in detail). Alternatively, it is conceivable for heat exchanger channels 403 to be formed in a carrier body 12 without being delimited by a distributor block side. Such heat exchanger channels would be delimited only by the carrier body 12 (not shown). The light-emitting components 11 can emit light to the environment through a protective window 14, which is held on the distributor block 10.

[0064] The light-emitting components 11, 13, and 15 can be divided, starting from one end 101 of the distribution block 10, into one or more proxy light-emitting components 11, one or more minute light-emitting components 13, and one or more distal light-emitting components 15. The various proximal (11), central (13), and distal (15) light-emitting components can be adjusted independently of one another by the power electronics 7 of the electronics unit 3. For example, when using the light source 1 in a printer for different format widths, the light-emitting components can be partially dimmed and / or deactivated, in particular depending on the location. For example, for a small format, only the proxy light-emitting components 11 can be activated, and the central and distal light-emitting components 13, 15 can be deactivated or dimmed.It should be understood that the division into proximal, middle, and distal light-emitting components 11, 13, and 15 is purely exemplary. In particular, the power electronics 7 can adjust the luminous output of each individual light-emitting component 11, 13, and / or 15 of a light source 1 independently of one another.

[0065] The pump 51 can be operated at its maximum nominal pumping power, and the flow rate f can be adjusted using the valve 53 to configure a desired flow rate, for example, using a balancing valve as described in DE 20 2013 001 744 U1. In this way, the flow rate f can be adjusted to ensure the required cooling power for controlling the temperature of the light-emitting components 11, 13, 15 at a predetermined cooling fluid inlet temperature when operating at their respective maximum nominal power.

[0066] Figure 3shows a schematic diagram illustrating measurements of the first pressure p1 and measurement of the second pressure p2. Since the second pressure p2 is measured behind the first pressure p1 in the flow direction F in the line system 103, the second pressure p2 is lower than the first pressure P1 due to the flow resistance between the first measuring point and the second point. The difference between the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2 is the pressure difference Δp. It should be understood that the flow through the distributor block 10 and / or, if appropriate, the line system 103 could be in the opposite direction, particularly with a different pump configuration (not shown).

[0067] According to the diagram shown in Figure 3As shown, the pressure can be specified as a pressure value in bar or Pascal. It is conceivable that a pressure measurement value is used as the pressure, for example in the form of a voltage signal or a current signal generated by the first cooling fluid pressure sensor 21 or the second cooling fluid pressure sensor 22. The pressure measurement value, ie, the current value or the voltage value, preferably corresponds proportionally to the respective pressure value p1 or p2.

[0068] As in Figure 3 As shown, the pressure p1 or p2 [bar] within the line system 103 depends on the flow rate f [L / min] of the cooling fluid through the line system 103. The pressure difference between the first pressure sensor 21 and the second pressure sensor 22 can be approximately determined using a formula known to the person skilled in the art for determining a pressure change along a straight pipeline.

[0069] The electronics unit 3 is configured to detect whether the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2 detected by the sensors 21, 22 indicate that the light source 1 is functioning properly or is malfunctioning.

[0070] If the pressure difference Δp approaches 0, it can be assumed that the volume flow also approaches 0; in other words, the light-emitting components 11, 13, and 15 are not properly tempered. In this case, the electronics unit 3 can initiate an emergency shutdown of the light source 1. In the event of an emergency shutdown of the light source 1, the power electronics 7 can, in particular, first be prompted to switch off the luminous output of the light-emitting components 11, 13, and 15.

[0071] The electronics unit 3 can, in particular, be configured to generate a diagnostic value such as a status message depending on the presence of a minimum required pressure difference Δp, wherein the power electronics 7 is configured to operate the at least one light source 1 only when the electronics unit 3 reports the presence of the minimum required pressure difference Δp. The minimum required pressure difference can, for example, correspond to 50 mbar, 100 mbar, 500 mbar, or 1 bar. Otherwise, it can be assumed that there is no cooling fluid flow f or an insufficient flow f to operate the at least one light source 1 without damage.

[0072] During normal operation of the light source 1, the electronics unit 3 can perform a control based on the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2, or on electrical pressure measurements corresponding to the first pressure or second pressure. For example, if the pressure difference Δp decreases, this may indicate a reduced flow rate, so that the electronics unit 3 can adjust the flow rate f using the flow control and / or regulation device 5; for example, the delivery rate of the pump 51 can be increased and / or a valve 53 can be opened further.

[0073] If, during operation of the light source 1, the difference in Δp between the first pressure p1 and the second pressure p2 or corresponding electrical pressure measurement values ​​increases, in particular unexpectedly, the electronic unit 3 can adjust the flow rate f by means of the control or regulating device and / or output a diagnostic value, in particular a warning and / or error message.

[0074] If the difference Δp increases rapidly (e.g., a change of at least 0.5 bar in less than one minute), a leak or a significant blockage of the line system 103, e.g., the first or second channel 501 or 502, can be inferred. The electronics unit 3 can be configured to adjust the flow rate f by means of the control or regulating device, particularly in the case of a rapid increase in the difference Δp, for example, by reducing the delivery capacity of the pump 51 and / or reducing the opening width of the valve 53.

[0075] If the difference Δp increases gradually (e.g., a change of at least 0.5 bar within a period of at least one hour), it can be concluded that there is a partial and / or progressive closure of the line system 103, in particular of at least one fluid path 409. If the difference Δp increases gradually, it can be assumed that, with a constant delivery rate of the pump 51, the flow rate f decreases while the flow resistance and the associated difference Δp increase. The electronics unit 3 can be configured, in the event of a particularly gradual increase in the difference Δp, to adapt the flow rate f by means of the control / regulating device, for example by increasing the delivery rate of the pump 51 and / or increasing the opening width of the valve 53.

[0076] The electronic unit 3 can, for example, consider a highest permissible maximum threshold and / or a lowest permissible minimum threshold to determine whether the pressure difference Δp is within a permissible range between the lowest permissible minimum threshold and the highest permissible maximum threshold. If the pressure difference Δp lies outside this permissible range, the electronic unit 3 can be configured to output a corresponding diagnostic value, control value, and / or regulation value.

[0077] Due to the design of the light source 1, each of the support elements 12 of the light source 1 can be cooled in the process by means of a water-glycol mixture as a cooling fluid, which flows, for example, at approximately 5 bar or approximately 1.5 bar in a cooling circuit 103, with a cooling capacity of approximately 300 W, so that the two support elements 12 furthest apart in the longitudinal direction exhibit a maximum temperature difference of 4 K. This allows all LED modules 11, 13, 15 of the light source to be operated at approximately the same efficiency. This enables, for example, homogeneous irradiation and thus homogeneous curing of the printing ink over a large area. Reference symbol

[0078] 1 Light source 3 Electronics unit 5 Control and / or regulation device 7 Power electronics 10 Distribution block 11, 13, 15 Light-emitting component 12 Support body 14 Window 16 Seal 21 First pressure sensor 22 Second pressure sensor 51 Pump 53 Valve 103 Piping system 121 Cooling fluid inlet opening 122 Cooling fluid return opening 403 Heat exchanger channel 409 Fluid path 501 First cavity 502 Second cavity 504 First branch channel 506 Second branch channel fFlow FFlow direction p1first pressure p2second pressure ΔpPressure difference

Claims

1. A light source (1), comprising at least one light emitting component (11, 13, 15), specifically an ultraviolet light emitting component and / or a semiconductor component, and a conduit system (103) that is able to be flown through with a cooling fluid in a flow direction (F) for controlling the temperature of the at least one light emitting component, and first and second cooling fluid pressure sensors (21, 22) disposed in series in the flow direction (F) in the conduit system (103); and an electronic unit (3) connected to the first and second cooling fluid pressure sensors (21, 22) that is configured to determine at least one diagnosis, control and / or regulating value based on pressures (p1, p2) sensed by the first cooling fluid pressure sensor (21) and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor (22), characterised in that the cooling fluid conduit system (103) comprises a manifold block (10) having a cooling fluid inlet opening (121) and a cooling fluid return opening (122), wherein the manifold block comprises a first cavity (501) and a further cavity (502), wherein the first cavity (501) and the further cavity (502) are fluidly connected with one another via at least one fluid path (409); wherein the first cooling fluid pressure sensor (21) is disposed in the first cavity (501) and the second cooling fluid pressure sensor (22) is disposed in the second cavity (502), specifically wherein the first cooling fluid pressure sensor (21) is disposed at the cooling fluid inlet opening (121) and / or the second cooling fluid pressure sensor (22) is disposed at the cooling fluid return opening (122), and / or specifically wherein the first pressure sensor (21) is disposed at the end (101) of the manifold block (10) opposite the cooling fluid inlet opening (121) and / or the second pressure sensor (22) is disposed at the end (101) of the manifold block (10) opposite the cooling fluid return opening (122).

2. The light source (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the first cooling fluid pressure sensor (21) and / or the second cooling fluid pressure sensor (22) sense a pressure measurement value of the cooling fluid and provide a corresponding electrical pressure measurement signal to the electronic unit (3), specifically wherein the corresponding pressure measurement signal is implemented as a preferably proportional current or voltage signal.

3. The light source (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the electronic unit (3) has a flow control and / or regulating device (5) configured to define a flow rate (f) of the cooling fluid in the flow direction (F) through the conduit system (103).

4. The light source according to claim 3, characterised in that the flow control and / or regulating device (5) has a pump (51) having a transport rate for transporting the cooling fluid through the conduit system (103), wherein the flow control and / or regulating device (5) is configured to adjust the transport rate of the pump (51) taking into account a target temperature of the light emitting component (11, 13, 15) for a lowest cooling fluid target flow rate, specifically wherein the flow control and / or regulating device (5) is configured to adapt the lowest cooling fluid target flow rate depending on a diagnosis, control and / or regulating value of the electronic unit.

5. The light source (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the electronic unit (3) comprises at least one power electronics (7) for adjusting the light output of the at least one light emitting component (11, 13, 15), specifically wherein the electronic unit (3) is configured to determine the at least one diagnosis, control and / or regulating value based on the light output, and / or wherein the flow control and / or regulating device is configured to define the flow rate (f) of the cooling fluid through the conduit system (103) based on the light output.

6. A method for operating a light source (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 comprising at least one light emitting component (11, 13, 15), wherein the at least one light emitting component (11, 13, 15) is temperature-controlled using a cooling fluid, wherein the cooling fluid is transported through a conduit system (103), characterised in that - a first pressure (p1) of the cooling fluid is sensed at a first location in the conduit system (103), - a second pressure (p2) of the cooling fluid is sensed at a second location in the conduit system (103), and - a diagnosis, control and / or regulating value is determined based on the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2).

7. The method for operating a light source (1) according to claim 6, characterised in that a flow rate (f) of the cooling fluid is defined in the flow direction (F) through the conduit system (103), specifically wherein a lowest cooling fluid target flow rate is adjusted taking into account a target temperature of the light emitting component (11, 13, 15).

8. The method for operating a light source (1) according to claims 6 or 7, characterised in that a diagnosis value, specifically an error message, is issued if the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2) are equal or substantially equal to one another.

9. The method for operating a light source (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that a diagnosis value, specifically a warning message, is issued if a difference (Δp) between the first pressure (p1) and the second pressure (p2) falls below a minimum threshold and / or exceeds a maximum threshold.

10. The method for operating a light source (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterised in that a light output of the at least one light emitting component (11, 13, 15) is adjusted, wherein the diagnosis, control and / or regulating value is determined based on the light output, and / or wherein the flow rate (f) is adjusted based on the light output.

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