Lighting device

Abstract

Lighting device The present description relates to a lighting device comprising: - an electrically conductive support structure (130); and - a plurality of elementary lighting modules (110) fixed on the support structure, each elementary module comprising a printed circuit board and, mounted on the printed circuit board, a set of LEDs and an electronic circuit for supplying and controlling the set of LEDs, in which, in each elementary module (110), the printed circuit board of the module comprises at least one reference terminal, the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the different elementary modules being electrically connected to each other via the support structure (130). Figure for abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Lighting device Technical field

[0001] The present description relates generally to lighting devices, and more particularly to a modular lighting device with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The present description also relates to the field of inflatable envelope lighting balloons, and, more particularly, to the control of the inflation of the envelope in such balloons. Prior art

[0002] Many LED lighting devices have already been proposed. However, it would be desirable to have an LED lighting device that overcomes all or some of the drawbacks of known devices. In particular, it would be desirable to have an LED lighting device that is more reliable, simpler to assemble, simpler to troubleshoot, and / or has additional features compared to known devices.

[0003] It would also be desirable to be able to improve the control of the inflation of the envelope in inflatable balloon type lighting devices. Summary of the invention

[0004] For this, one embodiment provides a lighting device comprising: - an electrically conductive support structure; and - a plurality of elementary lighting modules fixed on the support structure, each elementary module comprising a printed circuit board and, mounted on the printed circuit board, a set of LEDs and an electronic circuit for powering and controlling the set of LEDs, wherein, in each elementary module, the printed circuit board of the module comprises at least one reference terminal, the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the different elementary modules being electrically connected to each other via the support structure.

[0005] According to one embodiment, each elementary module comprises a support for fixing the module to the support structure.

[0006] According to one embodiment, in each elementary module the fixing support of the module comprises an electrically conductive part electrically connecting a reference terminal of the printed circuit board of the module to the support structure.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the electrically conductive part comprises a conductive rod provided at its ends with conductive tabs each comprising a opening crossed by a conductive rod of the support structure.

[0008] According to one embodiment, each elementary module further comprises a transparent or translucent protective casing placed opposite the printed circuit board of the module, the protective casing being fixed to said fixing support of the module.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the elementary modules are arranged in one or more prism-shaped stages, the modules being arranged on the lateral faces of the prism.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the elementary modules are arranged in a planar arrangement.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the elementary modules are arranged in a plurality of columns each comprising several elementary modules, each module comprising two power supply and control connectors, and the elementary modules of the same column are connected in a chain via their respective power supply and control connectors.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the device further comprises an electronic power supply and control circuit connected to one end of each column.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the electronic power supply and control circuit is configured to implement a diagnostic method comprising a step of measuring a quantity representative of a current consumed by a column and / or a voltage at the terminals of a column of elementary modules.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the electronic power supply and control circuit is configured to implement a diagnostic method comprising the following steps: a) control an elementary module of a column in the on state and measure a representative value of the current flowing in the column; b) controlling said elementary module of said column in the off state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing in the column; and c) comparing the difference between the value measured in step a) and the value measured in step b) with a nominal reference value and, if the difference between said difference and said nominal reference value exceeds a determined margin, deducing that said elementary module is faulty.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the device comprises a diffusing envelope surrounding the support structure and the elementary modules.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the diffusing envelope is an inflatable envelope.

[0017] Another embodiment provides a lighting device comprising: - an illuminating structure; - an inflatable envelope surrounding the lighting structure; - an inflation fan suitable for inflating the envelope; and - an electronic control circuit configured to, during an inflation phase of the envelope, monitor the rotation speed of the inflation fan, detect an increase in said rotation speed corresponding to the fan entering cavitation at the end of the inflation phase, and, when said increase is detected, reduce the value of a power setpoint applied to the fan.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the inflation fan comprises a rotation speed sensor connected to the electronic control circuit.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the electronic control circuit is configured to, during the inflation phase, control the inflation fan at its maximum power.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the control circuit is further configured to measure the time elapsed since the start of the inflation phase, and, if the elapsed time reaches, before the detection of the entry into cavitation of the fan, a predefined threshold corresponding to a maximum nominal inflation duration, emit an alert signal of a leak in the inflatable envelope to the attention of a user.

[0021] According to one embodiment, for the transmission of the alert signal, the control circuit controls the flashing of at least one light source of the illuminating structure according to a predetermined sequence, and / or the sending of an alert message to a remote terminal via a wired or wireless communication channel.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the electronic control circuit is further configured to, during or outside the inflation phase: - apply a power setting to the inflation fan; - determine the rotation speed of the inflation fan, and compare said rotation speed to a predefined threshold corresponding to a nominal rotation speed for said power setpoint; and - if said rotation speed is higher than said threshold, emit a warning signal of clogging of a fan intake filter.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the illuminating structure comprises: - a support structure; and - a plurality of elementary lighting modules fixed to the metal support structure, each elementary module comprising a printed circuit board and, mounted on the printed circuit board, a set of LEDs and an electronic circuit for powering and controlling the set of LEDs.

[0024] According to one embodiment, in each elementary module, the printed circuit board of the module comprises at least one reference terminal, the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the different elementary modules being electrically connected to each other via the structure of support.

[0025] According to one embodiment, each elementary module comprises a support for fixing the module to the support structure.

[0026] According to one embodiment, in each elementary module the fixing support of the module comprises a conductive part electrically connecting a reference terminal of the printed circuit board of the module to the metal support structure. Brief description of the drawings

[0027] These characteristics and advantages, as well as others, will be explained in detail in the following description of particular embodiments given without limitation in relation to the attached figures among which:

[0028] [Fig.l] is a partial perspective view of an example of an illuminating structure of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0029] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of another example of an illuminating structure of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0030] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of another example of an illuminating structure of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0031] [Fig.4] is an exploded perspective view of an example of an elementary lighting module of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0032] [Fig.5] is a partial front view of an example of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0033] [Fig.6] is a schematic front view of an example of an inflatable envelope lighting balloon according to one embodiment;

[0034] [Fig.7] is a simplified electrical diagram of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0035] [Fig.8] is a more detailed electrical diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an elementary lighting module of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0036] [Fig.9] illustrates an alternative embodiment of the elementary lighting module of [Fig.8];

[0037] [Fig. 10] illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a power distribution board of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0038] [Fig.l 1] schematically illustrates, in block form, steps of an example of a method for detecting defects in an LED lighting device according to one embodiment;

[0039] [Fig. 12] illustrates in more detail a step of the method of [Fig. 1 1];

[0040] [Fig. 13] illustrates a variant of implementation of a step of the method of the [Fig.ll];and

[0041] [Fig. 14] schematically illustrates, in block form, an example of a method for controlling the inflation of an envelope of an illuminating balloon with an inflatable envelope according to one embodiment. Description of the embodiments

[0042] The same elements have been designated by the same references in the different figures. In particular, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different embodiments may have the same references and may have identical structural, dimensional and material properties.

[0043] For the sake of clarity, only the steps and elements useful for understanding the described embodiments have been shown and are detailed. In particular, the production of the LEDs and the electronic power supply and control circuits of the devices described has not been detailed; the production of these elements is in fact within the reach of the person skilled in the art based on the indications in this description.

[0044] Unless otherwise specified, when referring to two elements connected to each other, this means directly connected without intermediate elements other than conductors, and when referring to two elements connected (in English "coupled") to each other, this means that these two elements can be connected or be connected by means of one or more other elements.

[0045] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as the terms "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or relative position qualifiers, such as the terms "above", "below", "upper", "lower", etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as the terms "horizontal", "vertical", etc., reference is made unless otherwise specified to the orientation of the figures.

[0046] Unless otherwise specified, the expressions "about", "approximately", "substantially", and "of the order of" mean to within 10%, preferably to within 5%.

[0047] [Fig.l] is a partial perspective view of an example of an illuminating structure 100 of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment.

[0048] The lighting structure 100 comprises a plurality of elementary lighting modules 110, identical or similar, fixed on the same support structure 130 made of one or more electrically conductive materials, for example metal, carbon, or a carbon-doped polymer material.

[0049] In the example of [Fig.l], the support structure 130 is intended to receive eighteen elementary modules 110 distributed in three superimposed stages of six modules each. For the sake of clarity, only the six elementary modules 110 of the upper stage have been shown in [Fig.l].

[0050] In this example, each elementary module 110 has the shape of a substantially rectangular or square panel. In each stage, the six elementary modules 110 of the stage are arranged in a hexagonal prism arrangement. More particularly, the six elementary modules 110 of the stage respectively form the six rectangular faces of the hexagonal prism. The different stages are aligned vertically along the same central axis. More particularly, in this example, in each stage of the lighting structure 100, each elementary module 110 of the stage is aligned vertically, by its vertical edges, with an elementary module 110 of each other stage

[0051] The support structure 130 of [Fig. 1] comprises six vertical rods 131, for example identical or similar, regularly distributed in a circular arrangement (in top view). The rods define the edges of the hexagonal prismatic structure. The rods 131 are made of an electrically conductive material, for example metal, carbon, or a carbon-doped polymer material.

[0052] Each elementary module 110 comprises a support 150 used to fix the module 110 to the support structure 130. In this example, each support 150 has a generally rectangular or square shape and lateral dimensions corresponding substantially to the lateral dimensions of the module 110. Each support 150 comprises, on the side of a vertical edge of the module 110, one or more fixing rings 151, intended to be threaded onto one of the rods 131 of the support structure. In the example shown, each support 150 comprises two fixing rings 151 arranged respectively at the two ends of the same vertical edge of the support 150. When an elementary module 110 is mounted on the support structure 130, the fixing ring(s) 151 of the module are crossed by a same rod 131 of the support structure.The vertical edge of the support 150 opposite the rings 151 comprises, in the lower part of the module, an opening crossed by a rod 131 adjacent to the support structure 130. More particularly, in this example, in front view from the outside of the lighting structure, in each elementary module 110, the fixing support 150 of the module comprises, on the side of its right edge, two fixing rings 151 arranged respectively in the upper part and in the lower part of the edge of the module, threaded onto a rod 131 of the support structure 130, and, on the side of its left edge, an opening (not visible in the figure) crossed by a neighboring rod 131. Thus, in this example, in each stage, each portion of rod 131 defining an edge of the hexagonal prism of the stage: . - on the one hand crosses the fixing rings 151 of the fixing support 150 of a first elementary module 110 of the stage, located mainly to the left of said rod 131; and - on the other hand through an opening in the fixing support 150 of a second elementary module 110 of the stage, located mainly to the right of said rod 131.

[0053] This arrangement allows robust fixing of the elementary modules 110 of each floor on a number of rods 131 equal to the number of elementary modules 110 of the floor. The embodiments described are however not limited to this particular arrangement.

[0054] An advantage of the illuminating structure described in relation to [Fig.l] is that it can easily be adapted to many other shapes and / or dimensions from the same basic elementary modules 110, by simply adapting the arrangement and / or the number of rods 131 of the support structure 130. This makes it possible to cover various applications while limiting the design and manufacturing costs of the devices for each new application. In particular, the number of elementary modules 110 can be chosen according to the desired total light output. For example, each elementary module 110 has an emission light output of between 1 and 10,000 lumens, for example between 10 and 5,000 lumens, for example between 100 and 1,000 lumens.The total luminous emission power of the device (sum of the powers emitted by the different elementary modules 110) is for example between 50 and 1,000,000 lumens, for example between 5,000 and 500,000 lumens.

[0055] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate other (non-limiting) examples of possible configurations of an illuminating structure of the type described in relation to [Fig.l].

[0056] In the example of [Fig.2], the structure comprises four elementary modules 110 per stage, arranged respectively along the four lateral faces of a square-based prism. The support structure comprises four rods 131, respectively defining the four edges of the prism. In the example of [Fig.2], only one stage has been shown. Depending on the intended application, the illuminating structure may comprise several stages stacked vertically as described in relation to [Fig.l].

[0057] In the example of [Fig. 3], the structure comprises two elementary modules 110 per stage, aligned linearly in the same plane. The support structure comprises three rods 131 aligned linearly in top view. In the example of [Fig. 3], a single stage of two modules has been shown. Depending on the intended application, the lighting structure may comprise several stages stacked vertically as described in relation to [Fig. 1] and / or a number of elementary modules 110 per stage other than two (for example a single module per stage or more than two stages per module).

[0058] [Fig. 4] is an exploded perspective view of an example of an elementary lighting module 110 of an illuminating structure of the type described in relation to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3.

[0059] The module 110 comprises a printed circuit board 112, on which are mounted a set 114 of one or more LEDs (eight LEDs regularly distributed over the surface of the printed circuit board in the example shown) and an electronic circuit electronics 116 for powering and controlling the LED assembly. Each module 110 comprises its own printed circuit board 112, separate from those of the other modules 110. Thus, each module 110 constitutes an elementary lighting panel independent of the other modules. The dimensions of the printed circuit board 112 correspond substantially to the dimensions of the module 110. For example, the printed circuit board 112 has a generally rectangular or square shape with a length of between 50 and 250 mm and a width of between 50 and 250 mm.

[0060] In the example shown, the module 110 further comprises, mounted on the printed circuit board, two connectors 118, for example identical or similar, intended to connect the module 110 to an external device, for example another module 110 or an electronic circuit for powering and controlling the lighting structure.

[0061] In the example of [Fig. 4], the connectors 118 are arranged respectively on the side of the upper edge and on the side of the lower edge of the module, in the vicinity of the right edge of the module. The embodiments described are however not limited to this particular arrangement.

[0062] Each elementary module 110 further comprises a protective casing 120 placed opposite the printed circuit board 112 of the module, on the side of the illumination face of the module. The casing 120 may comprise a transparent or translucent plate, for example made of glass or a polymer material, of dimensions substantially equal to those of the printed circuit board 112, placed parallel to the printed circuit board 112, on the side of the face of the printed circuit board 112 on which the LEDs 114 of the module are mounted. As a variant, the protective casing 120 may comprise an opaque plate comprising one or more openings 122 opposite the face of the printed circuit board 112 on which the LEDs 114 of the module are mounted, for example as shown in [Fig.4].

[0063] The fixing support 150 makes it possible to ensure the positioning and maintenance in position of the printed circuit board 112 on the support structure 130 (FIGS. 1 to 3). In this example, the protective casing 120 is fixed directly to the fixing support 150, for example by clipping. This makes it possible to transmit directly to the support structure 130 any shocks suffered by the protective casing 120, thus limiting the forces suffered by the printed circuit board 112.

[0064] In this example, the fixing support 150 comprises a frame 153, for example of generally square or rectangular shape and lateral dimensions corresponding substantially to the lateral dimensions of the module 110, intended to receive the printed circuit board 112 and, above the printed circuit board 112, the protective casing 120. The fixing rings 151 are arranged on the side of a vertical edge of the frame 153. The frame 153 and the fixing rings 151 are for example made of an electrically insulating material, for example plastic. By way of example, the frame 153 and the fixing rings 151 form a single-piece element, for example produced by molding. On the side of its vertical edge opposite the rings 151, the frame 153 may comprise an opening, not visible in the figures, intended to be crossed by a rod 131.

[0065] In this example, the fixing support 150 also provides a function of electrically connecting reference terminals or connection pads of the printed circuit board 112 to the support structure 130. The reference terminals are intended to be connected to a reference potential of the device, for example ground or any other reference potential, for example a positive power supply potential. For this, in this example, the support 150 comprises an electrically conductive part 155, for example metallic, in contact on the one hand with a reference connection terminal (not detailed in [Fig. 4]) of the printed circuit board 112 and on the other hand with the metal rod 131 passing through the fixing rings 151 of the support 150.Thus, the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards 112 of the different elementary modules 110 of the same column are all connected to each other by means of the metal rod 131 passing through the fixing rings 151 of said modules. The different metal rods 131 of the support structure 130 can be electrically connected to each other by a connecting piece, not shown, of the support structure 130, made of an electrically conductive material. This makes it possible to ensure the equipotentiality of the reference terminals of the different modules 110. For example, the connecting piece can be an upper plate and / or a lower plate 133 (visible in [Fig.5]) made of an electrically conductive material. Each plate may include openings through which the conductive rods 131 pass, which makes it possible to ensure the lateral spacing of the rods 131 and the electrical connection between the different rods 131.

[0066] In the example shown, the electrically conductive part 155 of the fixing support 150 comprises a metal rod 155a of length substantially equal to the height of the frame 153. The rod 155a is provided, at each of its two ends, with a tab 155b, respectively 155c. Each of the tabs 155b and 155c comprises a through opening 155d, respectively 155e, intended to be passed through by the conductive rod 131 passing through the fixing rings 151 of the support 150. Thus, the conductive rod 131 comes into mechanical and electrical contact with the part 155 at the periphery of the openings 155d, 155e of the tabs 155b, 155c. The rod 155a is further provided, in a central part, with a paste 155f intended to be brought into mechanical and electrical contact with a reference terminal of the printed circuit board 112.

[0067] The assembly of the elementary modules 110 and their fixing on the support structure 130 can be carried out as follows.

[0068] The printed circuit boards 112 are prepared upstream of the assembly phase. The printed circuit boards 112 and the conductive parts 155 can then be mounted on the support frames 153. In each module 110, a clamping screw, not shown, can be provided to ensure the fixing of the printed circuit board 112 and the conductive part 155 to the frame 153. This screw also makes it possible to ensure good electrical contact between the reference terminal of the printed circuit board 112 and the contact tab 155f of the conductive part 155. The protective casing 120 can then be clipped onto the frame 153, above the printed circuit board 112.

[0069] The elementary modules 110 can then be threaded in a column onto the conductive rods 131 of the support structure 130.

[0070] A clamping device (not detailed in the figure) may be provided at the ends of each rod 131 to ensure vertical clamping of the elementary modules 110 of each column. For example, the rods 131 are threaded, and the clamping device comprises, for each rod 131, a nut (not detailed in the figures) screwed on the lower end side and / or a nut (not detailed in the figures) screwed on the upper end side of the threaded rod, ensuring vertical clamping of the column. More generally, any other equivalent clamping system may be provided.

[0071] In the example described above, the protective casing 120 is adapted to transmit the light emitted by the LED assembly 114 without significant alteration. Alternatively, the protective casing 120 may have any other desired optical function, for example a lens function, or a function of directing the light in a determined direction (prism).

[0072] [Fig.5] is a partial exploded front view of an example of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment.

[0073] The device of [Fig.5] comprises an illuminating structure 100 identical or similar to the structure described in relation to [Fig.l].

[0074] The device of [Fig.5] further comprises, fixed under the lower plate 133 of the lighting structure, a fan 160, also called a thermal fan, intended to circulate the air located inside the volume delimited by the elementary modules 110, in order to facilitate the evacuation of the heat generated by the LEDs.

[0075] The device of [Fig. 5] further comprises, fixed under the lower plate 133 of the lighting structure, a service stage 170 comprising in particular electronic circuits for powering and controlling the lighting structure. The service stage 170 may comprise a support structure of the same type as that of the lighting structure. The electronic power and control circuits may be mounted on one or more printed circuit boards 172 fixed to the support structure, for example by means of fixing supports of the same type as the supports 150 of the lighting structure.

[0076] In this example, the lighting device is a lighting balloon type device, comprising an inflatable envelope, not shown in [Fig.5], enveloping the lighting structure 100 and the service floor 170.

[0077] To enable the envelope to be inflated, the service stage comprises a fan 174, called an inflation fan, adapted to suck air into the lower part of the device, to inject it into the envelope.

[0078] In the example shown, the device further comprises a support mast 180 fixed to a lower plate of the service stage 170.

[0079] [Fig.6] is a schematic front view of an inflatable envelope lighting balloon of the type described above.

[0080] In [Fig.6], the lighting structure 100, the service floor 170 and the support mast 180 have been represented schematically by dotted lines.

[0081] In this example, the lighting device comprises an inflatable envelope 190 surrounding the assembly comprising the illuminating structure 100 and the service stage 170. The envelope 190 is a flexible envelope, for example a textile envelope. The envelope 190 is preferably watertight and airtight and makes it possible to protect all of the mechanical and electronic components of the illuminating structure and the service stage against external aggressions. The envelope 190 can also act as an optical diffuser for the light emitted by the illuminating structure. In other words, the envelope 190 is adapted to transmit, by diffusing it, the light emitted by the illuminating structure.

[0082] The inflation of the envelope 190 is ensured by the inflation fan 174 (not visible in [Fig.6]), when the lighting device is put into service.

[0083] It will be noted that the lighting structures described above are not limited to use in inflatable balloon type lighting devices. As a variant, the inflatable envelope 190 may be replaced by a non-inflatable flexible envelope, for example stretched over frames (not shown) of the support structure, or by a rigid envelope or shell. In this case, the inflation fan 174 and the associated electronic power supply and control circuits may be omitted.

[0084] [Fig.7] is a simplified electrical diagram of an LED lighting device according to one embodiment.

[0085] It will be noted that, in the examples of illuminating structures described above, whatever the shape of the structure, the elementary modules 110 define a matrix of M row(s) by N column(s) with M integer greater than or equal to 1 and N integer greater than or equal to 1. The number M of rows corresponds to the number of stages of the structure. The number N of columns corresponds to the number of elementary modules 110 per stage. Each row is defined by the set of N elementary modules 110 of the corresponding stage. Each column is defined by the set of M elementary modules 110 of the same position in the different stages. Thus, the M*N elementary modules 110 define a matrix screen which can be planar (in the example of [Fig.3]) or rolled up on itself (in the examples of figures 1 and 2).

[0086] According to one aspect of an embodiment, a matrix control of the illuminating structure is implemented, in which each elementary module 110, also called a pixel, can be controlled individually. [Fig.7] illustrates in more detail an example of an interconnection diagram of the elementary modules 110 and peripheral power supply and control circuits of the illuminating structure, allowing the implementation of such matrix control.

[0087] It will be noted that depending on the applications considered, certain elementary modules 110 of the matrix may be omitted. In other words, it is possible to have a matrix with holes. In particular, in certain configurations, different columns may have different numbers of elementary modules 110, and / or different rows may have different numbers of elementary modules 110. The person skilled in the art will know how to adapt the control solutions described below to such configurations.

[0088] In this example, an illuminating structure of 9 elementary modules 110 distributed in a matrix according to M=3 rows and N=3 columns has been considered. The embodiments described can of course be adapted to any other matrix dimensions. Hereinafter, i, an integer ranging from 1 to M, will denote the rank of the elementary modules in each column, where i=1 corresponds to the lower module 110 and i=M corresponds to the upper module 110 of the column, and j, an integer ranging from 1 to N, will denote the rank of the elementary modules in each row, where j=1 corresponds to the leftmost module 110 and j=N corresponds to the rightmost module 110 in the row. Furthermore, for the sake of simplification, the elementary module 110 of row i of column j of the matrix will be denoted by the reference 11 Oij.

[0089] In each of the N columns of the matrix, the elementary modules 110 of the column are connected in a chain by their respective connectors 118. More particularly, each module 110i j, with the exception of the upper module 110Mj, is connected, by its upper connector 118, to the lower connector 118 of the module of rank 110 i+ij of the same column. The lower connector 118 of the lower module 110ij of the column is connected to a connector 20 lj specific to the column, of an electronic distribution card 210 (DISTRIB). In this example, the upper connector 118 of the upper module 110Mj of the column is not connected.

[0090] In this example, each of the connectors 118 and 20 1j is a three-terminal connector. More particularly, two terminals are dedicated to the transmission of a DC supply voltage for the modules 110, and the third terminal is dedicated to the transmission of a control signal for the modules 110, for example a serialized digital signal.

[0091] In each elementary module 110, the printed circuit board 112 of the module comprises three separate conductive tracks respectively connecting the three terminals of the lower connector 118 of the module to the three terminals of the upper connector 118 of the module. For each column, the connection between the connector 20lj of the distribution board 210 and the lower connector 118 of the module 110xj, and the step-by-step connections between neighboring modules of the column can be made by means of conductive wires, for example by means of three-wire conductive sheets or by means of rigid conductors.

[0092] In each elementary module 110, the power supply and control circuit 116 of the module receives the power supply and control signals propagated via the connectors 118, and accordingly controls the set of LEDs 114 of the module.

[0093] In this example, the elementary modules 110 of distinct columns are not directly connected to each other.

[0094] The device of [Fig.7] further comprises an electronic control card 220 (CTRL), connected to the distribution card 210, adapted in particular to generate and transmit to the distribution card 210 the control signals of the elementary modules 110 of the lighting structure. The distribution card 210 and the control card 220 are for example produced on two separate printed circuit boards. The distribution card 210 and the control card 220 are for example mounted on the service stage 170 (Figures 5 and 6) of the lighting device.

[0095] The distribution card 210 can be connected to a power supply unit 230 (SUP) itself connected to one or more electrical power sources (not detailed), for example a direct current power source such as an electric battery and / or an alternating current power source, for example the mains voltage.

[0096] The lighting device may further comprise a user interface device, not shown, connected to the electronic control card 220 by a wired or wireless connection. The user interface may, for example, take the form of an application on a smartphone connected to the electronic control card 220 by wireless communication means.

[0097] [Fig.8] illustrates in more detail an exemplary embodiment of an elementary lighting module 110 of the LED lighting device of [Fig.7].

[0098] In [Fig. 8], the three connection terminals of each connector 118 have been detailed. Terminals V+ and V- correspond respectively to a positive terminal and a negative terminal for applying the DC supply voltage of the module 110. The potential applied to terminal V- corresponds for example to the reference potential or reference potential of the module. Thus, in an assembly of the type described in relation to Figures 1 to 4, the reference terminal (not detailed in the figures) electrically connected to the support structure 130 via the part metal 155 of the fixing support 150 is a conductive pad or track of the printed circuit board 112 connected to the V- terminals of the connectors 118 of the module.

[0099] In this example, the module 110 is a white LED lighting panel. The same principle can, however, be applied to color, ultraviolet, infrared LEDs, or any other range of light emission wavelengths. The LED assembly 114 is constituted by a series association of white LEDs (not detailed in the figure), for example identical or similar, and comprises two power supply terminals connected respectively to the anode of the first LED and to the cathode of the last LED of the series association.

[0100] The power supply and control circuit 116 comprises a power supply circuit 301 and a power switch 303. The switch 303 comprises two input terminals connected respectively to the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module 110, and two output terminals connected respectively to two input terminals of the power supply circuit 301. The power supply circuit 301 further comprises two output terminals connected respectively to the two power supply terminals of the LED assembly 114.

[0101] When the switch 303 is in a first state, called the on state, the input terminals of the power supply circuit 301 are connected respectively to the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module, so that the power supply voltage of the module 110 is applied to the input of the power supply circuit 301. The power supply circuit 301 then provides, between its output terminals, a power supply current or voltage causing the LEDs to light up. Preferably, the power supply circuit 301 is a direct-to-direct (DC-DC) converter with constant output current, having the advantage of being particularly suitable for powering LEDs. For example, the power supply voltage of the module 110 is between 10 and 100 volts, for example of the order of 50 volts.

[0102] When the switch 303 is in a second state, called the off state, the input terminals of the power supply circuit 301 are isolated from the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module, so that the power supply voltage of the module is not applied to the input of the power supply circuit 301. The LEDs are then not powered and remain off. In practice, the switch 303 may have other functions than the aforementioned switching function, for example a function for limiting the inrush current at startup and / or a function for reshaping the on / off logic, for example to avoid a flash when the product is powered on.

[0103] In this example, the power supply and control circuit 116 of the module further comprises a control circuit 305, for example a digital circuit. The control circuit 305 is connected to a control terminal C of the module 110. Thus, the circuit 305 receives the control signal propagated step by step in each column of the module matrix 110. The circuit 305 is adapted to interpret this signal and to control the switch 303 and / or the power supply circuit 301 accordingly. For example, the circuit 305 is adapted to control the switch 303 in the open or closed state to turn on or off the LEDs of the module 110. The circuit 305 can further be adapted to control the power supply circuit 301 to vary the electrical power supplied to the LEDs of the assembly 114, and thus to vary the light power emitted by the module.

[0104] [Fig.9] illustrates an alternative embodiment of the elementary lighting module 110 of [Fig.8].

[0105] In this example, the LED assembly 114 comprises two LED subassemblies 114a and 114b. The LEDs of the subassembly 114a and the LEDs of the subassembly 114b have different emission properties. For example, the LEDs of the subassembly 114a are adapted to emit cold white light, and the LEDs of the subassembly 114b are adapted to emit warm white light. Each subassembly is for example made up of a series association of a plurality of identical or similar elementary LEDs.

[0106] The power supply and control circuit 116 comprises two power supply circuits 301a and 301b, and two power switches 303a and 303b. Each of the switches 303a and 303b comprises two input terminals connected respectively to the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module 110. The switch 303a comprises two output terminals connected respectively to two input terminals of the power supply circuit 301a. The switch 303b comprises two output terminals connected respectively to two input terminals of the power supply circuit 301b. The power supply circuit 301a comprises two output terminals connected respectively to the two power supply terminals of the LED subassembly 114a. The power supply circuit 301b comprises two output terminals connected respectively to the two power supply terminals of the LED subassembly 114b.

[0107] When the switch 303a is in a first state, called the on state, the input terminals of the power supply circuit 301a are respectively connected to the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module. The power supply circuit 301a then provides, between its output terminals, a current or a supply voltage causing the LEDs of the subassembly 114a to light up. Similarly, when the switch 303b is in a first state, called the on state, the input terminals of the power supply circuit 301b are respectively connected to the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module. The power supply circuit 301b then provides, between its output terminals, a current or a supply voltage causing the LEDs of the subassembly 114b to light up. The power supply circuits 301a and 301b are, for example, DC-DC converters with constant output current.

[0108] When the switch 303a is in a second state, called the off state, the input terminals of the power supply circuit 301a are isolated from the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the module, so that the LEDs of the subassembly 114a are not powered. Similarly, when the switch 303b is in the off state, the LEDs of the subassembly 114b are not powered.

[0109] In this example, the power supply and control circuit 116 of the module further comprises a control circuit 305, for example a digital circuit, connected to the control terminal C of the module 110. The circuit 305 receives the control signal propagated step by step in each column of the module matrix 110, and is adapted to control the switches 303a and 303b and / or the power supply circuits 301a and 301b accordingly. By way of example, the circuit 305 is adapted to control each of the switches 303a and 303b in the open or closed state to turn on or off the LEDs of the corresponding subassembly 114a or 114b. The circuit 305 may further be adapted to control each of the power supply circuits 301a and 301b to vary the electrical power supplied to the LEDs of the corresponding sub-assembly 114a or 114b. This makes it possible to vary the light power emitted and / or the tone (from warm to cold) of the light emitted by the module.More generally, the solution described above allows the intensity of each channel to be varied, each channel providing a spectrum of light defining a hue in a bandwidth ranging from near UV (ultraviolet) to near IR (infrared) covering the entire visible spectrum.

[0110] The variant of [Fig.9] can be adapted to a number of LED subsets of distinct natures other than two. For example, the LED assembly 114 can comprise a plurality of subsets adapted to emit in distinct wavelength ranges, for example three LED subsets adapted to emit respectively predominantly blue light, predominantly green light, and predominantly red light. By modulating the power emitted by the different subsets, it is thus possible to control the emission color of the module.

[0111] To individually control the different elementary modules 110 of the same column, the control data of the different modules can be transmitted successively on the control wire of the column, according to a predetermined sequence. In each lighting module 110, the control circuit 305 of the module knows how to identify the control code intended for it. The implementation of a suitable control protocol on a binary bus is within the reach of the person skilled in the art from the functional indications of the present description and will therefore not be described in more detail.

[0112] [Fig. 10] schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the distribution board 210 of a lighting device of the type described in relation to [Fig.7].

[0113] In the example of [Fig. 10], the distribution card 210 is adapted to redistribute power supply and control signals from and to different components of the lighting device, including the power supply unit 230 ([Fig. 7]), the control card 220 ([Fig. 7]) and the matrix of elementary modules 110 ([Fig. 7]). In this example, the distribution card is further adapted to distribute power supply and control signals from and / or to the thermal fan 160 ([Fig. 5]) and the inflation fan 174 ([Fig. 5]).

[0114] In addition to the connectors 20 lj (PWR CON) intended to be connected respectively to the lower connectors 118 of the elementary modules 110ij of the different columns, the distribution board 210 of [Fig. 10] comprises a main power connector 401 (PWR SRC CON) intended to be connected to the power source of the device. The connector 401 comprises two terminals V+ and V- for applying a main DC power supply voltage, connected respectively, via conductive tracks of the board 210, to the power supply terminals V+ and V- of the connectors 201j. The distribution board 210 may further comprise a multiplexer (not detailed in [Fig. 10]) adapted to select, where appropriate, from among the different power sources available, the power source used to supply the main DC power supply voltage of the distribution board.

[0115] In this example, the distribution board 210 comprises a power sensor 403 (PWR SENS) connected to the terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401, adapted to measure the electrical power drawn on the main supply terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401. By way of example, the sensor 403 comprises a sensor adapted to measure the voltage between the terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401, and a sensor adapted to measure the current flowing between the terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401.

[0116] It will be noted that in the example of [Fig. 10], the main DC supply voltage of the distribution board is applied directly (without level adaptation) between the terminals V+ and V- of each connector 20lj.

[0117] In the example of [Fig. 10], the distribution board 210 further comprises a connector 405 (CPU CON) intended to be connected to the electronic control board 220 ([Fig. 7]) of the lighting device. The connector 401 comprises two terminals vctri+ and vctrr adapted to provide a DC supply voltage for the electronic board 220, for example a voltage lower than the main DC supply voltage of the distribution board, for example a voltage of the order of 5V. The terminals vctri+ and vctrr correspond respectively to a positive terminal and a negative terminal for applying the DC supply voltage of the control board. The potential applied to the terminal vctrr corresponds for example to the reference potential (or ground potential) applied to the V- terminals of connectors 401 and 20lj.

[0118] To generate the supply voltage of the control card 220, the distribution card 210 further comprises a power supply circuit 407 (CPU PSU), for example a DC-DC converter, having two input terminals connected respectively to the terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401, and two output terminals connected, for example connected, respectively to the terminals vctri+ and vctrr.

[0119] The connector 405 further comprises a terminal C intended to be connected to a terminal for supplying a control signal of the control card 220. The terminal C of the connector 405 is connected to the terminals C of the connectors 20lj.

[0120] In the example of [Fig.10], the distribution card 210 further comprises a connector 409 (Tfan CON) intended to be connected to the thermal fan 160 ([Fig.5]) of the device, and a connector 411 (Pfan CON) intended to be connected to the inflation fan 174 ([Fig.5]) of the device.

[0121] The connector 409 comprises two terminals vTfan+ and vTfan- adapted to provide a DC supply voltage for the thermal fan 160, for example a voltage lower than the main DC supply voltage of the distribution board, for example a voltage of the order of 24V. The terminals vTfan+ and vTfan- correspond respectively to a positive terminal and a negative terminal for applying the DC supply voltage of the thermal fan. The potential applied to the terminal vTfan- corresponds for example to the reference potential (or ground potential) applied to the terminal V- of the connector 401.

[0122] Similarly, the connector 411 comprises two terminals vPfan+ and vPfan- adapted to provide a DC supply voltage for the inflation fan 174, for example a voltage lower than the main DC supply voltage of the distribution board, for example a voltage of the order of 24V. The terminals vPfan+ and vPfan- correspond respectively to a positive terminal and a negative terminal for applying the DC supply voltage of the thermal fan. The potential applied to the terminal vPfan- corresponds for example to the reference potential (or ground potential) applied to the terminal V- of the connector 401.

[0123] In this example, to generate the supply voltages of the thermal fan and the inflation fan, the distribution card 210 comprises a power supply circuit 413 (FANS PSU), for example a DC-DC converter, having two input terminals connected respectively to the terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401, two output terminals connected, for example connected, respectively to the terminals vTfan+ and v Tfan-, and two output terminals connected, for example connected, respectively to the terminals VPfan+ and VPfan-.

[0124] The distribution card 210 of [Fig. 10] further comprises one or more dBUS buses for transmitting control signals, for example digital. In In the example shown, a dBus control signal transmission bus connects in particular a control port of the connector 411 to a data input / output port of the connector 405. In this example, a dBus control signal transmission bus further connects a data output port of the power sensor 403 to the data input / output port of the connector 405. A dBus control signal transmission bus further connects a control port of the connector 409 and a control port of the power supply circuit 413 to the data input / output port of the connector 405.

[0125] The production of the control card 220 of the device of [Fig.7] has not been detailed. The control card 220 may comprise one or more calculation and processing circuits, for example a microprocessor and / or a microcontroller, and / or one or more memory circuits.

[0126] [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates, in block form, steps of an example of a method for detecting faults in an LED lighting device of the type described above. This method can be implemented at startup of the lighting device and / or during use, for example at periodic intervals, and aims to detect and locate a possible faulty elementary module 110. The method of [Fig. 11] can be implemented by means of the electronic distribution 210 and control 220 ([Fig.7]) cards of the device.

[0127] The method of [Fig.l 1] consists of testing one after the other all the columns of the matrix of elementary modules 110 in order to identify a possible anomaly in the column, and, when an anomaly is detected, testing one after the other all the elementary modules 110 of the column to identify the faulty module.

[0128] During a step 501, a column index x is initialized to the value of the rank of the first column of the matrix (x=1). At this step, a fault indicator flag, for example binary, is initialized to a value corresponding to an absence of fault (flag=0).

[0129] During a step 503 the current Icoi(x) consumed by the column of rank j=x is estimated. For this, all the elementary modules 110 of the columns of rank j different from x are deactivated, that is to say controlled to the off state, and all the elementary modules of the column of rank j=x are activated, that is to say controlled to the on state. The current flowing between the terminals V+ and V- of the connector 401 is then measured by means of the power sensor 403. An estimate of the current Icoi(x) consumed by the column of rank j=x is thus obtained (considering the sum of the currents consumed by the deactivated columns of the matrix, by the electronic control card, and by the fans, as negligible or known).

[0130] During step 503, the current Icoi(x) is compared to a nominal reference value Lef_coi, for example stored in a memory circuit of the electronic control card 220. The value Iref_coi corresponds to the current flowing normally in a column of the matrix of elementary modules 110 in the absence of a fault in this column.

[0131] If, at step 503, the measured current Icoi(x) is equal or substantially equal (within a predetermined tolerance margin, for example plus or minus ten percent) to the value Iref_coi (Y), the column can be considered to be operating correctly. In this case, the rank x is incremented at a step 505 (x=x+l).

[0132] In the opposite case (N), it can be assumed that at least one elementary module 110 of the column is faulty. In this case, the elementary modules 110 of the column are tested one by one during a step 507 (Test Col(x)). Examples of implementation of step 507 will be described in more detail below in relation to figures 12 and 13. If, in step 507, a module 110 of the column is considered to be faulty, the fault indicator flag is set to a value corresponding to the presence of a fault (flag=1). At the end of step 507, step 505 of incrementing the rank x is implemented (x=x+1).

[0133] After step 505, it is checked, during a step 509, whether all the columns have been tested (x>N). If this is not the case (N) steps 503, 507 (if applicable), 505 and 509 are repeated.

[0134] If all the columns have been tested (Y), it is determined, during a step 511, whether the fault indicator flag is at a value corresponding to the presence of a fault (flag=1). If this is the case (Y), an alert, for example a light alert, can be issued during a step 513 (W). If no fault has been detected (N), the method ends.

[0135] [Fig. 12] illustrates an example of implementation of step 507 of testing a column of rank j=x of the method of [Fig. 1 1].

[0136] The method of [Fig. 12] consists of testing one after the other all the elementary modules 110 of the column of rank j=x in order to identify a possible faulty module.

[0137] During a step 601, a row index y is initialized to the value of the rank of the first row of the matrix (y=l).

[0138] Then, during a step 603, all the elementary modules 110 of the matrix are controlled to the on state. A current Iref representative of the total current flowing in the device is then measured by means of the sensor 403.

[0139] During a step 605, the elementary module 110y>x is deactivated (controlled to the off state). The other elementary modules 110 of the device remain controlled to the on state, and the total current I flowing in the device is measured by means of the sensor 403.

[0140] During a step 607, the current I measured in step 605 is compared to the difference between the current Iref measured in step 603 and a nominal reference value Iref_PiX, by example stored in a memory circuit of the electronic control card 220. The value Iref_pix corresponds to the current flowing normally in an elementary module 110 in the absence of a fault in the module.

[0141] If, at step 607, the current I is equal or substantially equal (within a predetermined tolerance margin, for example plus or minus ten percent) to the value Iref -Iref_pix (Y), the module can be considered to be operating correctly. In this case, the rank y is incremented at a step 609 (y=y+l).

[0142] In the opposite case (N), it can be assumed that the module 110y x is faulty. The fault indicator flag is then set to a value corresponding to the presence of a fault (flag=l) during a step 611. The coordinates of the faulty module in the matrix can also be stored, for example with a view to being transmitted to a user via a non-detailed user interface. At the end of step 611, step 609 of incrementing the rank y is implemented (y=y+l).

[0143] After step 609, it is checked, during a step 613, whether all the modules of the column of rank x have been tested (y>M). If this is not the case (N) steps 603, 605, 607, 611 (if applicable), 609 and 613 are repeated.

[0144] If all modules in the column have been tested (Y), the column testing step ends.

[0145] The method of [Fig. 12] is a subtractive analysis method particularly suited to the detection of faults generating a drop in consumption of the faulty module. It makes it possible to limit to a minimum the switching off of the modules during the test phase, which is particularly advantageous when the test is implemented during use of the device.

[0146] [Fig. 13] illustrates another example of implementation of step 507 of testing a column of rank j=x of the method of [Fig. 1 1].

[0147] Here again, we test one after the other all the elementary modules 110 of the column of rank j=x in order to identify a possible faulty module.

[0148] During a step 701, a row index y is initialized to the value of the rank of the first row of the matrix (y=l).

[0149] Then, during a step 703, all the elementary modules 110 of the matrix with the exception of the elementary modules of the column of rank j=x are controlled to the on state. The elementary modules of the column of rank j=x are all controlled to the off state. A current Iref representative of the total current flowing in the device is then measured by means of the sensor 403.

[0150] During a step 705, the elementary module 110y>x is activated (controlled in the on state). The other elementary modules 110 of the device remain controlled in the same state as in step 703. The total current I flowing in the device is then measured by means of the sensor 403.

[0151] During a step 707, the current I measured in step 705 is compared to the sum Iref + I ref_pix*

[0152] If, at step 707, the current I is equal or substantially equal (within a predetermined tolerance margin, for example plus or minus ten percent) to the value Iref +Iref_pix (Y), it can be considered that the module is operating correctly. In this case, the rank y is incremented at a step 709 (y=y+l).

[0153] In the opposite case (N), it can be assumed that the module 110y>x is faulty. The fault indicator flag is then set to a value corresponding to the presence of a fault (flag=l) during a step 711. The coordinates of the faulty module in the matrix can also be stored, for example with a view to being transmitted to a user via a non-detailed user interface. At the end of step 711, step 709 of incrementing the rank y is implemented (y=y+l).

[0154] After step 709, it is checked, during a step 713, whether all the modules of the column of rank x have been tested (y>M). If this is not the case (N) steps 703, 705, 707, 711 (if applicable), 709 and 713 are repeated.

[0155] If all modules in the column have been tested (Y), the column testing step ends.

[0156] The method of [Fig. 13] is an additive analysis method particularly suited to the detection of faults generating overconsumption of the faulty module.

[0157] Depending on the needs of the application, it will be possible to choose, at step 507 of the method of [Fig. 1 1], to apply one or the other of the methods of figures 12 and 13, or even both successively.

[0158] It will be noted that the reference value Iref_coi used in step 503 ([Fig. 11]) is chosen as a function of the level of the light power setpoint applied to the elementary modules during the phase of measuring the current Icol(x). Similarly, the reference value Iref_pix used in step 607 ([Fig. 12]) or 707 ([Fig. 13]) is chosen as a function of the level of the light power setpoint applied to the elementary modules during the phase of measuring the current Iref (step 603 or 703). For example, the electronic control card 220 can store several reference values ​​Iref_col and several reference values ​​Iref_pix, corresponding respectively to different levels of lighting power setpoint of the elementary modules. For startup diagnostics, the elementary modules are preferably controlled at a relatively low brightness level, for example below 20 percent of their maximum brightness.In particular, in the case of an inflatable envelope lighting balloon, the balloon envelope may not yet be inflated during the diagnostic phase. Carrying out the diagnosis at a low brightness level then makes it possible to limit thermal stresses in the device.

[0159] More generally, other testing strategies than those described in relation to the Figures 11, 12 and 13 can be implemented, based on measurements of power consumption and comparison of the measured powers with reference values.

[0160] For example, for a diagnosis during use, it is possible to favor a systematic test of all the modules 110 by subtractive analysis, module by module. In other words, the method of [Fig. 12] is implemented successively in all the columns of the matrix, omitting the step of prior selection of suspect columns (step 503 of [Fig. 1 1]). This makes it possible to limit the loss of luminous flux to the equivalent of a single module 110.

[0161] As a variant, for a diagnosis in after-sales service, a systematic test of all the modules 110 by additive analysis, module by module, can be applied. In other words, the method of [Fig. 13] is implemented successively in all the columns of the matrix, omitting the step of prior selection of suspect columns (step 503 of [Fig.l 1]). In addition, during step 703 of measuring the reference current, all the elementary modules 110 of the matrix are controlled in the off state. This makes it possible to limit the electrical consumption during the test phase.

[0162] When a faulty module is identified, further, more in-depth tests can be implemented to determine the cause of the failure.

[0163] It will also be noted that the diagnostic methods described above in relation to figures 11, 12 and 13 can be applied to any lighting device comprising a plurality of elementary modules 110 arranged in a column, including when the support structure of the device is non-conductive and / or does not provide the function of equipotentiality of the reference potentials of the different elementary modules 110.

[0164] [Fig. 14] schematically illustrates, in the form of blocks, an example of a method for controlling the inflation of an envelope of an illuminating balloon with an inflatable envelope according to one embodiment. This method can be implemented when the device is put into service, during inflation of the envelope. The method of [Fig. 14] can for example be implemented by means of the electronic distribution cards 210 and control 220 ([Fig.7]) of the device.

[0165] In this example, the inflation fan 174 of the device is a variable speed fan comprising a control data input-output port, connected to the electronic control card 220 via a data bus, for example digital, dBus of the distribution card 210. The control input-output port of the fan 174 comprises in particular one or more input terminals adapted to receive a setpoint signal for the electrical supply power of the fan. The control input-output port of the fan further comprises one or more output terminals adapted to provide a return signal representative of the actual rotation speed of the fan, measured by means of a rotation speed sensor. (not detailed in the figures) integrated into the fan.

[0166] Before the inflation phase, the envelope is initially deflated, and the inflation fan is stopped.

[0167] During a step 801, the fan is controlled at its inflation power, for example at its maximum power so as to obtain rapid inflation of the envelope. Throughout the inflation phase, the fan injects air into the balloon envelope. During this phase, the effective rotation speed QP of the fan is maintained at an inflation value QG, for example substantially constant, which depends on the applied power setpoint.

[0168] At the end of the inflation phase, i.e. when the envelope is filled with air, the air pressure inside the balloon stabilizes at a value slightly higher than the external pressure. The air flow displaced by the fan is then reduced. This leads to an increase in the rotation speed of the fan (for a given power setting). The fan is said to enter cavitation.

[0169] According to one aspect of an embodiment, provision is made to monitor the effective rotational speed of the fan so as to detect cavitation and deduce therefrom that the inflation of the balloon is complete.

[0170] During a step 803, the effective rotation speed QP of the fan is measured by the electronic control card 220. The card 220 determines whether the measured speed QP corresponds to a cavitation speed QCav, greater than the inflation speed QG.

[0171] If cavitation is detected in step 803 (Y), the fan power setpoint is reduced in step 805. The rotation speed QP of the fan is thus brought back to a value QLOW, for example lower than the value QG. This makes it possible to maintain a substantially constant pressure in the tank during the use phase, while limiting the electrical consumption and noise of the fan.

[0172] If the entry into cavitation is not detected in step 803 (N), it is checked in a step 807 (TIME OUT) whether the time elapsed since the start of the inflation phase does not exceed a predefined threshold, corresponding to a maximum nominal inflation duration.

[0173] If it is determined in step 807 that the maximum inflation duration is not exceeded (N), steps 803 and, where appropriate, 807, may be repeated, for example at regular time intervals.

[0174] If it is determined in step 807 that the maximum inflation time is exceeded (Y), it is deduced that the envelope present may be an air leak and an alert is issued to the user during a step 809 (W).

[0175] The method described in relation to [Fig. 14] has the advantage of allowing simple detection of the end of the inflation phase, and, where appropriate, of a possible leak in the balloon envelope.

[0176] Other control and / or diagnostic methods based on an analysis of a fan speed feedback signal can be implemented by the electronic control card 220. For example, detection of an abnormally high rotation speed (for a given power setpoint) can make it possible to determine that an air intake filter of the fan is clogged. An alert message can then be issued to the user, to inform him that the filter must be cleaned. A fan fault can also be detected if it is found that the actual rotation speed QP of the fan is not consistent with the applied power setpoint. Here again, an alert can be issued to the user. If a failure of the inflation fan is detected, a device safety device can be activated.For example, the elementary modules 110 can be controlled at a low power, for example of the order of 10% of their maximum power, to avoid possible degradation of the envelope under the effect of the heat emitted by the LEDs.

[0177] The various alerts sent back to the user may be sent via a user interface device (not detailed) of the lighting device, for example via a contactless communication channel, for example a radio wave communication channel (for example of the Bluetooth type), for example to a smartphone-type mobile terminal or to a remote maintenance center. As a variant, the alerts may be sent in the form of light signals, for example predefined sequences of successive flashes sent by means of one or more elementary modules 110 of the device.

[0178] It will be noted that the method of [Fig. 14] is not limited to implementation in a matrix LED lighting device of the type described above. More generally, this method of detecting the end of inflation of [Fig. 14] can be adapted to any illuminating balloon comprising an inflatable envelope and an inflation fan. In particular, this method can be adapted to balloons incorporating other types of illuminating structures than those described above, for example structures based on incandescent lamps.

[0179] Various embodiments and variations have been described. Those skilled in the art will understand that certain features of these various embodiments and variations could be combined, and other variations will occur to those skilled in the art. In particular, the embodiments are not limited to the examples of numerical values ​​or the examples of materials mentioned in this description.

[0180] Furthermore, in the assembly examples described in relation to Figures 1 to 5, the fixing support 150 can be replaced by any other element suitable for ensuring the both the function of mechanically fixing the elementary modules 110 on the support structure 130, and the function of electrically connecting reference terminals of the printed circuit boards 112 to the support structure 130, so as to ensure equipotentiality between the reference terminals of the different modules 110. By way of example, the fixing support can be replaced by fixing clips each provided with a conductive part connecting a reference terminal of the printed circuit board 112 to the support structure 130.

Claims

Claims

1. Lighting device comprising: - an electrically conductive support structure (130); and - a plurality of elementary lighting modules (110) fixed on the support structure, each elementary module comprising a printed circuit board (112) and, mounted on the printed circuit board, a set (114) of LEDs and an electronic circuit (116) for supplying and controlling the set of LEDs (114), wherein, in each elementary module (110), the printed circuit board (112) of the module comprises at least one reference terminal (V-), the reference terminals (V-) of the printed circuit boards (112) of the different elementary modules (110) being electrically connected to each other via the support structure (130), wherein the elementary modules (110) are arranged in a plurality of columns each comprising several elementary modules (110),each module comprising two power supply and control connectors (118), and the elementary modules (110) of the same column being connected in a chain via their respective power supply and control connectors (118).,

2. Device according to claim 1, in which each elementary module (110) comprises a support (150) for fixing the module to the support structure (130).

3. Device according to claim 2, wherein, in each elementary module (110) the fixing support (150) of the module comprises an electrically conductive part (155) electrically connecting a reference terminal (V-) of the printed circuit board of the module to the support structure (130).

4. Device according to claim 3, in which said electrically conductive part (155) comprises a conductive rod (155a) provided at its ends with conductive tabs (155b, 155c) each comprising an opening (155d, 155e) crossed by a conductive rod (131) of the support structure (130).

5. Device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, in which each elementary module (110) further comprises a transparent or translucent protective casing (120) placed opposite the printed circuit board (112) of the module, the protective casing (120) being fixed on said fixing support (150) of the module.

6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in which the elementary modules (110) are arranged in one or more prism-shaped stages, the modules being arranged on the lateral faces of the prism.

7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in which the elementary modules (110) are arranged in a planar arrangement.

8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising an electronic power supply and control circuit (210, 220) connected to one end of each column.

9. Device according to claim 8, in which the electronic power supply and control circuit (210, 220) is configured to implement a diagnostic method comprising a step of measuring a quantity representative of a current consumed by a column and / or a voltage at the terminals of a column of elementary modules (110).

10. Device according to claim 8 or 9, in which the electronic power supply and control circuit (210, 220) is configured to implement a diagnostic method comprising the following steps: a) controlling an elementary module (110) of a column in the on state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing in the column; b) controlling said elementary module (110) of said column in the off state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing in the column; and c) comparing the difference between the value measured in step a) and the value measured in step b) with a nominal reference value (Iref-PiX) and, if the difference between said difference and said nominal reference value exceeds a determined margin, deducing therefrom that said elementary module (110) is faulty.

11. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a diffusing envelope (190) surrounding the support structure (130) and the elementary modules (110).

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the diffusing envelope (190) is an inflatable envelope.

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