lighting equipment

Abstract

The present specification relates to a lighting device comprising: a conductive support structure (130); and a plurality of basic lighting modules (110) fixed to the support structure, each basic lighting module having a printed circuit board, a set of LEDs assembled on the printed circuit board, and electronic circuitry for supplying power to and controlling the set of LEDs, and in each basic lighting module (110), the printed circuit board of the basic lighting module has at least one reference terminal, and the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the basic lighting modules are electrically connected to each other via the support structure (130).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to lighting devices, and more particularly to modular lighting devices with light emitting diodes (LEDs). The present disclosure further relates to the field of illuminated balloons with inflatable envelopes, and more particularly to controlling the inflation of the envelopes of such balloons. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] Many lighting devices with LEDs are already available. However, it would be desirable to be able to provide a lighting device with LEDs that overcomes all or some of the disadvantages of known devices. In particular, it would be desirable to provide a lighting device with LEDs that is easier to assemble, easier to repair, and / or has additional functionality and is more reliable than known devices.

[0003] However, it would be desirable to be able to improve control of the inflation of the envelope in an inflatable balloon type lighting device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] To this end, the embodiment: - an electrically conductive support structure; a plurality of basic lighting modules fixed to the support structure; It is equipped with the basic lighting module includes a printed circuit board, an LED cluster assembled on the printed circuit board, and an electronic circuit for supplying power to and controlling the LED cluster; A lighting device is provided, wherein in each basic lighting module, the printed circuit board has at least one reference terminal, and the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the basic lighting modules are electrically connected to each other via the support structure.

[0005] According to an embodiment, each elementary lighting module comprises a fixing support for fixing said elementary lighting module to said support structure.

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

[0007] According to an embodiment, the conductive portion comprises a conductive rod having conductive tabs at both ends, the conductive tabs each having an opening through which the conductive rod of the support structure crosses.

[0008] According to an embodiment, each basic lighting module further comprises a transparent or translucent protective housing arranged in front of the printed circuit board of the basic lighting module, the protective housing being fixed to the fixed support.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the elementary lighting modules are arranged according to one or more prismatic steps and are arranged on the side surfaces of the prismatic column.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the elementary lighting modules are arranged according to a planar configuration.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the basic lighting modules are arranged according to a plurality of rows, each row containing a plurality of basic lighting modules, each basic lighting module having two power and control connectors, and the basic lighting modules in the same row are chain-connected via their respective power and control connectors.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the lighting device further comprises power and control electronics connected to the end of each string.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the power supply and control electronic circuit is configured to perform a diagnostic method comprising the step of measuring a quantity representative of the current consumed by a string and / or the voltage of a string of the basic lighting modules.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the power supply and control electronic circuitry comprises: a) controlling the elementary lighting modules of a string in an ON state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing through said string; b) controlling the elementary lighting modules of said string in an off state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing through said string; 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 deducing that the basic lighting module is defective if the difference between the nominal reference value and the difference exceeds a predetermined tolerance. The diagnostic method is configured to perform the diagnostic method comprising:

[0015] According to an embodiment, the lighting device comprises a diffusing envelope surrounding the support structure and the elementary lighting module.

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

[0017] Another embodiment is - a lighting structure; - an inflatable envelope surrounding said lighting structure; - an inflation fan adapted to ensure inflation of said inflatable envelope; an electronic control circuit configured to monitor the rotational speed of the inflation fan during an inflation phase of the inflatable envelope, to detect an increase in the rotational speed corresponding to cavitation of the inflation fan at the end of the inflation phase, and to reduce a power setting applied to the inflation fan when the increase is detected; To provide a lighting device comprising:

[0018] According to an embodiment, the inflation fan has a rotation speed sensor coupled to the electronic control circuit.

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

[0020] According to an embodiment, the electronic control circuit is further configured to measure the time elapsed since the start of the inflation phase and to emit a signal to warn a user of a leak in the inflatable envelope if the elapsed time reaches a predetermined threshold corresponding to a maximum nominal inflation time before detecting that the inflation fan is cavitating.

[0021] According to an embodiment, in order to issue a warning signal, the electronic control circuit commands the flashing of at least one light source of the lighting structure according to a predetermined procedure and / or the transmission of a warning message to a remote terminal via a wired or wireless communication channel.

[0022] According to an embodiment, the electronic control circuitry controls the expansion phase or the expansion phase: - providing a power setting for the inflation fan; - determining a rotational speed of the inflation fan and comparing the rotational speed with a predetermined threshold corresponding to a nominal rotational speed of the power setting; - if the rotational speed exceeds the threshold, issuing a warning signal indicating a clogged intake filter of the inflation fan; It is further configured as follows.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the lighting structure comprises: a support structure; - a plurality of basic lighting modules fixed to said support structure of metal; The basic lighting module includes a printed circuit board, an LED cluster assembled on the printed circuit board, and electronic circuitry for supplying power to and controlling the LED cluster.

[0024] According to an embodiment, in each basic lighting module, the printed circuit board of the basic lighting module has at least one reference terminal, and the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the basic lighting modules are electrically connected to each other via the support structure.

[0025] According to an embodiment, each elementary lighting module comprises a fixing support for fixing said elementary lighting module to said support structure.

[0026] According to an embodiment, in each basic lighting module, the fixed support comprises a conductive part electrically connecting a reference terminal of a printed circuit board of the basic lighting module to the metallic support structure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] The foregoing and other features and advantages will be described in detail in the remainder of this disclosure of particular embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 is a partial perspective view showing an example of an illumination structure of an illumination device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another example of an illumination structure of an illumination device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another example of an illumination structure of an illumination device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a basic lighting module of a lighting device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a partial front view showing an example of a lighting device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 6]1 is a schematic front view of an example of an illuminated balloon with an inflatable envelope according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a simplified electrical circuit diagram showing a lighting device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 is a more detailed electrical circuit diagram showing an example of an embodiment of a basic lighting module of a lighting device including an LED according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 9 is an electrical diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of the basic lighting module of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B illustrate examples of power distribution maps for a lighting device with LEDs according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 3 is a flow chart illustrating, in block form, steps of an example of a method for detecting defects in a lighting device with LEDs according to an embodiment; [Figure 12] 12 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of the method of FIG. 11 in further detail. [Figure 13] 12 is a flow chart illustrating an alternative implementation of the method steps of FIG. 11. [Figure 14] 1 is a flow chart illustrating, in block form, a schematic example of a method for controlling the inflation of an envelope of an illuminated balloon with an inflatable envelope according to an embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] Like features are indicated by like reference numerals in the various figures, and in particular, structural and / or functional features common to various embodiments may have the same reference numerals and may have the same structural, dimensional, and material characteristics.

[0030] For clarity, only those steps and elements useful for understanding the embodiments described herein are shown and described in detail. In particular, the formation of the LEDs and power and control electronic circuitry of the described devices is not detailed, and the formation of these elements is indeed within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art based on the disclosure herein.

[0031] Unless otherwise indicated, when referring to two elements connected together, this refers to a direct connection without any intermediate elements other than conductors, and when referring to two elements coupled together, this refers to the fact that the two elements may be connected or may be coupled via one or more other elements.

[0032] In the following disclosure, when reference is made to terms that qualify absolute positions such as "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," or relative positions such as "above," "below," "upper," "lower," or terms that qualify orientations such as "horizontal," "vertical," unless otherwise specified, this refers to the orientation of the drawing.

[0033] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "to the extent" refer to within 10%, preferably within 5%, of the relevant value.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view showing an example of an illumination structure 100 of an illumination device equipped with an LED according to an embodiment.

[0035] The lighting structure 100 comprises a plurality of identical or similar basic lighting modules 110 fixed to an identical support structure 130 formed of one or more electrically conductive materials, such as metal, carbon, or a carbon-doped polymer material.

[0036] In the example of Figure 1, the support structure 130 is configured to receive 18 base modules 110, which are distributed across three stacked tiers, each containing six base modules 110. For clarity, only the top tier of six base modules 110 is shown in Figure 1.

[0037] In this example, each basic module 110 has the form of a substantially rectangular or square panel. In each stage, the six basic modules 110 of the stage are arranged in a hexagonal prism configuration. More specifically, the six basic modules 110 of the stage respectively form six rectangular surfaces of the hexagonal prism. The various stages are vertically aligned along the same central axis. More specifically, in this example, in each stage of the lighting structure 100, each basic module 110 of the stage is vertically aligned with the basic modules 110 of each other stage at their vertical edges.

[0038] 1 has, for example, six identical or similar vertical rods 131 regularly distributed according to a circular configuration (in plan view). The rods 131 define the edges of a hexagonal prism structure. The rods 131 are made of a conductive material, for example, a metal, carbon, or a carbon-doped polymer material.

[0039] Each basic module 110 has a support 150 that is used to secure the basic module 110 to the support structure 130. In this example, each support 150 has a generally rectangular or square shape and lateral dimensions that substantially correspond to the lateral dimensions of the module 110. Each support 150 has one or more locking rings 151 on the sides of a vertical edge of the module 110 that are configured to slide over one of the rods 131 of the support structure 130. In the example shown, each support 150 has two locking rings 151, one located at each end of the same vertical edge of the support 150. When the basic module 110 is assembled to the support structure 130, the same rod 131 of the support structure 130 crosses the one or more locking rings 151 of the basic module. The vertical edge of the support 150 opposite the fixing ring 151 has openings in the lower part of the module, adjacent to the support structure 130, through which the rods 131 cross. More specifically, in this example, in a front view from the outside of the lighting structure, in each basic module 110, the fixing support 150 of the basic module has, on the side of its right edge, two fixing rings 151 arranged respectively in the upper and lower parts of the edge of the module, which slide over the rods 131 of the support structure 130, and on the side of its left edge, an opening (not shown in the drawing) through which the adjacent rods 131 cross. Thus, in this example, in each stage, the respective parts of the rods 131 that define the edges of the hexagonal prism of the stage are on the one hand, across the fixing ring 151 of the fixed support 150 of the first elementary module 110 of the stage, which is mainly arranged to the left of said rod 131; on the other hand, across an opening in the fixed support 150 of the second elementary module 110 of the stage, which is mainly arranged to the right of said rod 131.

[0040] This arrangement allows each tier of base modules 110 to be securely fastened to a number of rods 131 equal to the number of base modules 110 in that tier, however, the described embodiments are not limited to this particular arrangement.

[0041] An advantage of the illumination structure described in connection with FIG. 1 is that this illumination structure can be easily modified into many other shapes and / or sizes based on the same basic modules 110 by simply adapting the arrangement and / or number of rods 131 of the support structure 130. This allows for application to a variety of applications while limiting the configuration and manufacturing costs of the device for each new application. In particular, the number of basic modules 110 may be selected depending on the desired total optical power. For example, the radiated optical power of each basic module 110 may be in the range of 1 to 10,000 lumens, such as in the range of 10 to 5,000 lumens, for example, in the range of 100 to 1,000 lumens. The total radiated optical power of the device (the sum of the radiated optical powers emitted by the various basic modules 110) may be in the range of 50 to 1,000,000 lumens, for example, in the range of 5,000 to 500,000 lumens.

[0042] 2 and 3 show other (non-limiting) examples of possible configurations of lighting structures of the type described in relation to FIG.

[0043] In the example of Figure 2, the lighting structure has four basic modules 110 per tier, each arranged along the four sides of a prism having a square base. The support structure has four rods 131 that define the four edges of the prism. In the example of Figure 2, one tier is shown. Depending on the intended application, the lighting structure may have multiple vertically stacked tiers, such as those described in connection with Figure 1.

[0044] In the example of Figure 3, the lighting structure has two linearly aligned basic modules 110 per row in the same plane. The support structure has three linearly aligned rods 131 in a plan view. In the example of Figure 3, one row of two modules is shown. Depending on the intended application, the lighting structure may have multiple vertically stacked rows as described in connection with Figure 1 and / or a number of basic modules 110 different from two per row (e.g., one module per row or more than two rows per module).

[0045] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an example of a basic lighting module 110 of a lighting structure of the type described in connection with FIGS.

[0046] The module 110 includes a printed circuit board 112 having one or more LED clusters (eight LEDs in the illustrated example, evenly distributed on the surface of the printed circuit board) and electronic circuitry 116 for powering and controlling the LED clusters. Each module 110 has its own printed circuit board 112 that is separate from the printed circuit boards of the other modules 110. Thus, each module 110 forms a basic lighting panel independent of the other modules. The size of the printed circuit board 112 substantially corresponds to the size of the module 110. For example, the printed circuit board 112 has a general rectangular or square shape with a length in the range of 50 to 250 mm and a width in the range of 50 to 250 mm.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the module 110 further comprises two connectors 118, e.g., identical or similar, assembled on the printed circuit board, which are configured to connect the module 110 to an external device, e.g., another module 110 or an electronic circuit for powering and controlling a lighting structure.

[0048] In the example of Figure 4, connectors 118 are located near the right edge of the module, one on each side of the upper and lower edges of the module, although the described embodiments are not limited to this particular arrangement.

[0049] Each basic module 110 has a protective housing 120 arranged in front of the basic module's printed circuit board 112 on the side of the basic module's illumination surface. The protective housing 120 may have a transparent or translucent plate, for example made of glass or a polymer material, with a size substantially equal to that of the printed circuit board 112 and arranged parallel to and on the side of the surface of the printed circuit board 112 on which the module's LEDs 114 are assembled. Alternatively, the protective housing 120 may have an opaque wall with one or more openings 122 in front of the surface of the printed circuit board 112 on which the module's LEDs 114 are assembled, as shown in FIG. 4, for example.

[0050] The fixed supports 150 can ensure that the printed circuit board 112 is attached and held in place on the support structure 130 (FIGS. 1-3). In this example, the protective housing 120 is fixed directly to the fixed supports 150, for example by snap fastening. This allows any shocks that the protective housing 120 may be subjected to to be transferred directly to the support structure 130, thus limiting the stresses that the printed circuit board 112 may be subjected to.

[0051] In this example, the fixed support 150 has a frame 153, e.g., of a generally square or rectangular shape and with lateral dimensions substantially corresponding to those of the module 110, configured to receive the printed circuit board 112 and the protective housing 120 above the printed circuit board 112. The fixing ring 151 is arranged on a vertical edge of the frame 153. The frame 153 and the fixing ring 151 are made, for example, of an electrically insulating material, e.g., plastic. By way of example, the frame 153 and the fixing ring 151 form a monoblock element, formed, for example, by molding. The frame 153 may have an opening, not shown in the drawings, on the vertical edge opposite the fixing ring 151, through which the rod 131 passes.

[0052] In this example, the fixed support 150 also ensures the electrical connection of a reference connection terminal or reference connection area of ​​the printed circuit board 112 to the support structure 130. The reference connection terminal is configured to be connected to a reference potential of the device, such as ground or any other reference potential, such as a positive power supply potential. To this end, in this example, the support 150 has a conductive portion 155, for example made of metal, which is in contact on the one hand with the reference connection terminal of the printed circuit board 112 (not shown in detail in FIG. 4 ) and on the other hand with a metal rod 131 that crosses the fixing ring 151 of the support 150. Thus, all reference terminals of the printed circuit boards 112 of the various basic modules 110 in the same row are connected to one another via the metal rod 131 that crosses the fixing ring 151 of said basic modules. The various metal rods 131 of the support structure 130 may be electrically connected to one another by connectors, not shown, of the support structure 130 made of an electrically conductive material. This can ensure equipotential characteristics of the reference terminals of the various modules 110. By way of example, the connections can be upper and / or lower platens 133 (shown in FIG. 5) made of a conductive material. Each platen can have openings through which the conductive rods 131 pass, thereby ensuring lateral spacing of the rods 131 and electrical connections between the various rods 131.

[0053] In the illustrated example, the conductive portion 155 of the fixed support 150 comprises a metal rod 155a having a length substantially equal to the height of the frame 153. The metal rod 155a has tabs 155b and 155c at both ends. The tabs 155b and 155c have through-openings 155d and 155e, respectively, configured to allow the conductive rod 131 to cross the ring 151 of the fixed support 150. Thus, the conductive rod 131 electrically and mechanically contacts the conductive portion 155 at the peripheral levels of the through-openings 155d and 155e of the tabs 155b and 155c. The metal rod 155a further comprises a tab 155f at its central portion, configured to mechanically and electrically contact a reference terminal of the printed circuit board 112.

[0054] The base module 110 may be assembled and secured to the support structure 130 as follows.

[0055] The printed circuit board 112 is prepared upstream of the assembly stage. Next, the printed circuit board 112 and the conductive portion 155 may be assembled onto the support frame 153. Each module 110 may be provided with a clamp screw (not shown) to ensure the printed circuit board 112 and the conductive portion 155 are fixed to the frame 153. The clamp screw may further ensure proper electrical contact between the reference terminal of the printed circuit board 112 and the contact tab 155f of the conductive portion 155. The protective housing 120 may then be snapped onto the frame 153 above the printed circuit board 112.

[0056] The base modules 110 may be slid in rows on conductive rods 131 of a support structure 130 .

[0057] To ensure vertical clamping of each row of basic modules 110, clamping devices (not shown in detail in the drawings) may be provided at both ends of each rod 131. By way of example, the rods 131 may be threaded and the clamping device may comprise, for each rod 131, a nut (not shown in detail in the drawings) screwed onto the lower end side of the threaded rod and / or a nut (not shown in detail in the drawings) screwed onto the upper end side, ensuring vertical clamping of the row. More generally, any other equivalent clamping system may be provided.

[0058] In the above example, the protective housing 120 is adapted to transmit the light emitted by the LED cluster 114 without significantly altering it. Alternatively, the protective housing 120 may have any other desired optical function, such as a lens function or a function for directing light in a predetermined direction (prism function).

[0059] FIG. 5 is a partially exploded front view showing an example of a lighting device including an LED according to an embodiment.

[0060] The apparatus of FIG. 5 includes an illumination structure 100 that is the same as or similar to the structure described in connection with FIG.

[0061] The device of FIG. 5 further comprises a fan 160, also referred to as a heat fan, fixed under the lower platen 133 of the lighting structure, the fan 160 being configured to stir the air in the space defined by the basic module 110 to facilitate the dissipation of heat generated by the LEDs.

[0062] The device of Figure 5 further comprises a service stage 170 fixed below the lower platen 133 of the lighting structure, the service stage 170 comprising, among other things, electronic circuits for power supply and control of the lighting structure. The service stage 170 may have a support structure of the same type as the lighting structure. The power supply and control electronic circuits may be assembled on one or more printed circuit boards 172 fixed to the support structure, for example by means of fixed supports of the same type as the type of fixed support 150 of the lighting structure.

[0063] In this example, the lighting device is a lighting balloon type device with an inflatable envelope, not shown in FIG. 5, covering the lighting structure 100 and the service stage 170 .

[0064] To enable inflation of the envelope, the service stage has a fan 174, called the inflation fan, adapted to draw air into the lower part of the device and inject it into the envelope.

[0065] In the illustrated example, the apparatus further includes a support mast 180 secured to the lower platen of the service stage 170 .

[0066] FIG. 6 is a schematic front view of an illuminated balloon with an inflatable envelope of the type described above.

[0067] In Figure 6, the lighting structure 100, service stage 170 and support mast 180 are shown schematically in dashed lines.

[0068] In this example, the lighting device comprises an inflatable envelope 190 that encloses the assembly comprising the lighting structure 100 and the service stage 170. The inflatable envelope 190 is a flexible envelope, for example a woven envelope. The envelope 190 is preferably watertight and airtight and can protect all mechanical and electronic components of the lighting structure and the service stage from the outside. The envelope 190 may also perform the function of a light diffuser for the light emitted by the lighting structure. In other words, the envelope 190 is adapted to transmit the light emitted by the lighting structure by diffusion.

[0069] Inflation of the envelope 190 is ensured by an inflation fan 174 (not shown in FIG. 6) when the lighting device is put into use.

[0070] It should be noted that the lighting structure described above is not limited to use with inflatable balloon-type lighting devices. Alternatively, the inflatable envelope 190 may be replaced with a non-inflatable flexible envelope, or a rigid envelope or shell, stretched, for example, over a framework (not shown) of a support structure. In this case, the inflation fan 174 and associated power supply and control electronics may be omitted.

[0071] FIG. 7 is a simplified electrical circuit diagram of a lighting device including an LED according to an embodiment.

[0072] It should be noted that in the above-described examples of illumination structures, regardless of the shape of the illumination structure, the basic modules 110 define an array of one or more M rows by one or more N columns, where M is an integer greater than or equal to 1 and N is an integer greater than or equal to 1. The number of rows, M, corresponds to the number of stages in the illumination structure. The number of columns, N, corresponds to the number of basic modules 110 per stage. Each row is defined by a collection of N basic modules 110 in the corresponding stage. Each column is defined by a collection of M basic modules 110 in the same position in the various stages. Thus, the M x N basic modules 110 define an array screen that may be flat (in the example of FIG. 3) or rolled up around its axis (in the examples of FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0073] According to aspects of an embodiment, array driving of the lighting structure may be performed, with each elementary module 110, also referred to as a pixel, being individually controlled. Figure 7 shows in more detail an example of the interconnection of elementary modules 110 of the lighting structure with peripheral circuitry for power supply and control, which allows such array driving to be performed.

[0074] It should be noted that, depending on the intended application, certain basic modules 110 of the array may be omitted. In other words, it is possible to provide an array with holes. In particular, in a particular configuration, different columns may include different numbers of basic modules 110 and / or different rows may include different numbers of basic modules 110. Those skilled in the art will be able to adapt the drive solutions described below to such configurations.

[0075] In this example, an illumination structure of 9 elementary modules 110 distributed in an array of M=3 rows and N=3 columns is of interest. The described embodiment may of course be adapted to any other array size. In the following, i is an integer ranging from 1 to M and represents the rank of the elementary modules in each column, i=1 corresponding to the bottom elementary module 110 and i=M corresponding to the top elementary module 110 in the column, and j is an integer ranging from 1 to N and represents the rank of the elementary modules in each row, j=1 corresponding to the leftmost elementary module 110 in the row and j=N corresponding to the rightmost elementary module 110 in the row. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, the reference numerals 110 i,j is used to represent the elementary module 110 in row i and column j of the array.

[0076] In each of the N columns of the array, the base modules 110 in the column are chain-connected by their respective connectors 118. More specifically, the top base module 110 M,j Each basic module excluding 110 i, j rank 110 in the same column i+1,j The bottom base module 110 in the row is connected to the bottom connector 118 of the base module by the upper connector 118. 1,j The lower connector 118 of the electronic distribution board 210 (DISTRIB) is connected to the row-specific connector 201 j In this example, the top basic module 110 in the column M,j The upper connector 118 is not connected.

[0077] In this example, connector 118 and connector 201 j and each are connectors having three terminals. More specifically, two terminals are dedicated to transmitting a DC voltage for powering the module 110, and the third terminal is dedicated to transmitting a signal, such as a serialized digital signal, for controlling the module 110.

[0078] In each base module 110, the base module's printed circuit board 112 has three separate conductive tracks that respectively connect three terminals of the base module's lower connector 118 to three terminals of the base module's upper connector 118. For each row, the connectors 201 of the distribution board 210 j and Module 110 1,j The connections to the lower connector 118 and the proximity connections between adjacent modules in the row may be made by conductive wires, for example a conductive sheet or rigid conductor having three wires.

[0079] In each base module 110, a base module power and control circuit 116 receives power and control signals propagated through connector 118 and controls the base module's LED cluster 114 accordingly.

[0080] In this example, the base modules 110 in different rows are not directly connected to each other.

[0081] The device of Fig. 7 further comprises an electronic control board 220 (CTRL) coupled to the distribution board 210, the electronic control board 220 being adapted to manage and transmit to the distribution board 210 signals for controlling in particular the basic modules 110 of the lighting structure. The distribution board 210 and the control board 220 are formed, for example, on two separate printed circuit boards. The distribution board 210 and the control board 220 are, for example, assembled on the service stage 170 (Figs. 5 and 6) of the lighting device.

[0082] The distribution board 210 may be coupled to a power supply unit 230 (SUP), which itself is coupled to one or more power sources (not described in detail), e.g., a DC power source such as a battery and / or an AC power source, e.g., mains voltage.

[0083] The lighting device may further comprise a user interface device (not shown) which is connected by a wired or wireless link to the electronic control board 220. The user interface may, for example, be in the form of a smartphone application which is connected to the electronic control board 220 by wireless communication means.

[0084] FIG. 8 shows an example embodiment of the basic lighting module 110 of the LED lighting device of FIG. 7 in more detail.

[0085] 8 shows in detail the three connection terminals of each connector 118. The V+ and V- terminals correspond to the positive and negative terminals, respectively, to which the DC power supply voltage of the module 110 is applied. The potential applied to the V- terminal corresponds, for example, to the reference potential, i.e., the reference potential of the module. Thus, in an assembly of the type described in connection with FIGS. 1-4, the reference terminal (not shown in detail in the drawings) electrically connected to the support structure 130 via the metal part 155 of the fixed support 150 is a conductive area or conductive track of the printed circuit board 112 connected to the V- terminal of the connector 118 of the module.

[0086] In this example, the module 110 is a lighting panel with white LEDs. However, the same principles may be applied to colored LEDs, ultraviolet LEDs, infrared LEDs, or any other emitting wavelength range. The LED cluster 114 is formed, for example, by a series combination of identical or similar white LEDs (not shown in detail in the drawings), and has two power supply terminals connected respectively to the anode of the first LED and the cathode of the last LED in the series combination.

[0087] The power supply and control circuit 116 includes a power supply circuit 301 and a power switch 303. The power switch 303 has two input terminals connected to the V+ and V- power supply terminals of the module 110, respectively, and two output terminals connected to the two input terminals of the power supply circuit 301, respectively. The power supply circuit 301 further has two output terminals connected to the two power supply terminals of the LED assembly 114, respectively.

[0088] When switch 303 is in a first state, referred to as the on state, the input terminals of power supply circuit 301 are connected to the V+ and V- power supply terminals of the module, respectively, so that the power supply voltage of module 110 is applied to the input of power supply circuit 301. Power supply circuit 301 then applies a current or power supply voltage across its output terminals to turn on the LEDs. Preferably, power supply circuit 301 is a DC / DC converter with a constant output current, which is advantageously suited to powering LEDs. For example, the power supply voltage of module 110 is in the range of 10 to 100 volts, e.g., approximately 50 volts.

[0089] When switch 303 is in a second state, referred to as the off state, the input terminals of power supply circuit 301 are isolated from the module's V+ and V- power terminals, so that the module's power supply voltage is not applied to the input of power supply circuit 301. The LED is not powered and remains off. In fact, switch 303 may have other functions besides the switching function described above, such as limiting surge currents at start-up and / or reshaping the on / off logic, for example to avoid flashing when the product is powered on.

[0090] In this example, the power supply and control circuit 116 of the module further comprises a control circuit 305, e.g., a digital circuit. The control circuit 305 is connected to the control terminal C of the module 110. Thus, the control circuit 305 receives control signals propagated from nearby to nearby columns of the array of modules 110. The control circuit 305 is adapted to interpret this signal and control the switch 303 and / or the power supply circuit 301 accordingly. By way of example, the control circuit 305 is adapted to control the switch 303 to an on or off state to turn on or off the LEDs of the module 110. The control circuit 305 may also be adapted to control the power supply circuit 301 to vary the power supplied to the LEDs of the group 114, and thus the optical power emitted by the module.

[0091] FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the basic lighting module 110 of FIG.

[0092] In this example, the LED cluster 114 comprises two sub-clusters 114a and 114b of LEDs. The LEDs in sub-cluster 114a and the LEDs in sub-cluster 114b have different light-emitting properties. For example, the LEDs in sub-cluster 114a are adapted to emit cool white light, while the LEDs in sub-cluster 114b are adapted to emit warm white light. Each sub-cluster may be formed, for example, by a series combination of multiple identical or similar elementary LEDs.

[0093] The power supply and control circuit 116 includes two power supply circuits 301a and 301b and two power switches 303a and 303b. The switches 303a and 303b each have two input terminals connected to the V+ and V- power supply terminals of the module 110, respectively. The switch 303a has two output terminals connected to the two input terminals of the power supply circuit 301a, respectively. The switch 303b has two output terminals connected to the two input terminals of the power supply circuit 301b, respectively. The power supply circuit 301a has two output terminals connected to the two power supply terminals of the LED sub-aggregate 114a, respectively. The power supply circuit 301b has two output terminals connected to the two power supply terminals of the LED sub-aggregate 114b, respectively.

[0094] When switch 303a is in a first state, referred to as an on state, the input terminals of power supply circuit 301a are connected to the V+ and V- power supply terminals of the module, respectively. Therefore, power supply circuit 301a applies a power supply current or voltage between its output terminals that turns on the LEDs of sub-assembly 114a. Similarly, when switch 303b is in a first state, referred to as an on state, the input terminals of power supply circuit 301b are connected to the V+ and V- power supply terminals of the module, respectively. Therefore, power supply circuit 301b applies a power supply current or voltage between its output terminals that turns on the LEDs of sub-assembly 114b. Power supply circuits 301a and 301b may be, for example, DC / DC converters with constant output current.

[0095] When switch 303a is in a second state, referred to as the off state, the input terminals of power supply circuit 301a are isolated from the V+ and V- power terminals of the module, so that no power is supplied to the LEDs in sub-collection 114a. Similarly, when switch 303b is in the off state, no power is supplied to the LEDs in sub-collection 114b.

[0096] In this example, the module's power supply and control circuitry 116 further includes a control circuit 305, e.g., a digital circuit, connected to the control terminal C of the module 110. The control circuit 305 is adapted to receive control signals propagated from nearby to nearby columns of the array of modules 110 and to control the switches 303a, 303b and / or the power supply circuits 301a, 301b accordingly. For example, the control circuit 305 is adapted to control each of the switches 303a and 303b to an on or off state to turn on or off the LEDs of the corresponding sub-assembly 114a or sub-assembly 114b. The control circuit 305 may further be adapted to control each of the power supply circuits 301a and 301b to vary the power supplied to the LEDs of the corresponding sub-assembly 114a or sub-assembly 114b. This allows the radiated light power and / or color tone (from warm to cool) of the light emitted by the module to be varied. More generally, the above solution allows varying the intensity of channels that each provide a light spectrum that defines a bandwidth ranging from near ultraviolet (UV) to near infrared (IR) across the visible spectrum.

[0097] 9 may be adapted to LED sub-aggregates of different natures, different in number from two. By way of example, LED aggregate 114 may have multiple sub-aggregates adapted to emit light in distinct wavelength regions, e.g., three LED sub-aggregates adapted to emit primarily blue light, one adapted to emit primarily green light, and one adapted to emit primarily red light. Thus, by modulating the optical power emitted by the various sub-aggregates, the light emission color of the module can be controlled.

[0098] To individually control the various base modules 110 in the same row, the control data of the various modules may be transmitted sequentially over the control wires of the row according to a predetermined sequence. In each lighting module 110, the module's control circuit 305 can identify the control code intended for that module. The implementation of an adapted control protocol is within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art based on the functional representations of the present disclosure and therefore will not be described in further detail.

[0099] FIG. 10 shows a schematic example of an embodiment of a distribution substrate 210 of a lighting device of the type described in connection with FIG.

[0100] In the example of Figure 10, the distribution board 210 is adapted to distribute power supply and control signals to the various components of the lighting device between the power supply unit 230 (Figure 7), the control board 220 (Figure 7), and the array of base modules 110 (Figure 7). In this example, the distribution board is further adapted to distribute power supply and control signals to and / or from the heat fan 160 (Figure 5) and the inflation fan 174 (Figure 5).

[0101] 110 basic modules in various rows i,j connectors 201 configured to be connected to the lower connectors 118 of the j 10 includes a main power connector 401 (PWR SRC CON) that is configured to connect to a device power supply. The main power connector 401 has two terminals, V+ and V-, to which the main DC power supply voltage is applied, and the V+ and V- terminals are connected to the connector 201 via conductive tracks on the distribution board 210. j The V+ and V− power supply terminals of the distribution board 210 are coupled to the V+ and V− power supply terminals, respectively. The distribution board 210 may further include a multiplexer (not shown in detail in FIG. 10 ) adapted to select, from among various available power supplies, the power supply used to provide the main DC power voltage of the distribution board, if any.

[0102] In this example, distribution board 210 includes a power sensor 403 (PWR SENS) connected to the V+ and V− terminals of connector 401 and adapted to measure power from the V+ and V− main power terminals of connector 401. By way of example, power sensor 403 includes a sensor adapted to measure the voltage between the V+ and V− terminals of connector 401 and a sensor adapted to measure the current flowing through the V+ and V− terminals of connector 401.

[0103] In the example of FIG. 10, the main DC power supply voltage of the distribution board is j It should be noted that the voltage is applied directly (without level adaptation) between the V+ and V- terminals of the

[0104] In the example of Figure 10, the distribution board 210 further comprises a connector 405 (CPU CON) configured to be connected to the electronic control board 220 (Figure 7) of the lighting device. The connector 405 has two terminals v adapted to apply a DC voltage for powering the electronic control board 220, for example a voltage lower than the main DC power supply voltage of the distribution board, for example a voltage of the order of 5V. ctrl + and terminal v ctrl - has terminal V ctrl + and terminal v ctrl - correspond to the positive and negative terminals to which the DC power supply voltage of the control board is applied. ctrl The potential applied to the connectors 401 and 201 is, for example, j This corresponds to the reference potential (or ground potential) applied to the V- terminal of the

[0105] To generate the power supply voltage of the control board 220, the distribution board 210 further includes a power supply circuit 407 (CPU PSU), for example a DC / DC converter, which has two input terminals connected to the V+ and V- terminals of the connector 401, respectively, and a terminal v ctrl + and terminal v ctrl and two output terminals respectively coupled, for example connected, to the

[0106] The connector 405 further has a terminal C configured to be connected to a terminal for supplying a signal for controlling the control board 220. The terminal C of the connector 405 is connected to a terminal for supplying a signal for controlling the control board 220. j It is connected to terminal C of the

[0107] In the example of FIG. 10, the distribution board 210 further includes a connector 409 (Tfan CON) configured to connect to the device's heat fan 160 (FIG. 5) and a connector 411 (Pfan CON) configured to connect to the device's inflation fan 174 (FIG. 5).

[0108] The connector 409 has two terminals v adapted to apply a DC voltage for powering the heat 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. Tfan + and terminal v Tfan - has terminal V Tfan + and terminal v Tfan - correspond to the positive and negative terminals to which DC voltage is applied to supply power to the heat fan. Tfan The potential applied to − corresponds to the reference potential (or ground potential) applied to the V− terminal of the connector 401, for example.

[0109] Similarly, connector 411 has two terminals v adapted to apply a DC voltage for powering inflation fan 174, e.g., a voltage lower than the main DC power voltage of the distribution board, e.g., a voltage on the order of 24V. Pfan + and terminal v Pfan - has terminal V Pfan + and terminal v Pfan - correspond to the positive and negative terminals to which DC voltage is applied to supply power to the heat fan. Pfan The potential applied to − corresponds to the reference potential (or ground potential) applied to the V− terminal of the connector 401, for example.

[0110] In this example, the distribution board 210 has a power supply circuit 413 (FANS PSU), for example a DC / DC converter, to generate voltages for supplying power to the heat fan and the inflation fan. The power supply circuit 413 has two input terminals connected to the V+ and V- terminals of the connector 401, respectively, and a terminal v Tfan + and terminal v Tfan - respectively connected, for example, two output terminals connected to terminal V Pfan + and terminal V Pfan and two output terminals respectively coupled, for example connected, to the

[0111] 10 further comprises one or more buses dBus for transmitting, for example, digital control signals. In the illustrated example, the control signal transmission bus dBus in particular connects the control port of connector 411 to the data input / output port of connector 405. In this example, the control signal transmission bus dBus further connects the data output port of power sensor 403 to the data input / output port of connector 405. The control signal transmission bus dBus further connects the control port of connector 409 and the control port of power supply circuit 413 to the data input / output port of connector 405.

[0112] The formation of the control board 220 of the device of Figure 7 will not be described in detail. The control board 220 may include one or more computing and processing circuits, such as a microprocessor and / or a microcontroller, and / or one or more memory circuits.

[0113] Figure 11 shows, in block form, the steps of an example method for detecting defects in a lighting device equipped with LEDs of the type described above. The method may be performed, for example periodically, at start-up and / or during use of the lighting device, with the aim of detecting and identifying a possibly defective base module 110. The method of Figure 11 may be performed by the lighting device's electronic distribution board 210 and electronic control board 220 (Figure 7).

[0114] The method of FIG. 11 sequentially tests every row of an array of basic modules 110 to identify possible anomalies within the row, and if an anomaly is detected, sequentially tests every basic module 110 in the row to identify the defective module.

[0115] In step 501, a column index x is initialized with the value of the rank of the first column of the array (x=1). In this step, a defect indicator flag, for example a binary flag, is initialized with a value corresponding to no defects (flag=0).

[0116] In step 503, the current I consumed in the column of rank j=x is calculated. col (x) is estimated. To do this, all basic modules 110 in the columns of rank j different from x are deactivated, i.e., controlled to be in the OFF state, and all basic modules in the column of rank j=x are activated, i.e., controlled to be in the ON state. Next, the current flowing between the V+ and V- terminals of the connector 401 is measured by the power sensor 403. In this way, the current I consumed in the column of rank j=x (assuming that the total current consumed by the deactivated columns of the array, the electronic control board, and the fan is negligible or known) is calculated. col Obtain an estimate of (x).

[0117] During step 503, the current I col (x) is set to, for example, a nominal reference value I stored in the memory circuit of the electronic control board 220. ref_col Compare with the nominal reference value I ref_col corresponds to the current that would normally flow through a column of an array of elementary modules 110 if this column were not defective.

[0118] In step 503, the measured current I col (x) is the nominal reference value I ref_col If (Y) is equal to or substantially equal to (within a predetermined tolerance, for example, plus or minus 10 percent), the column can be considered to be operating correctly. In this case, in step 505, rank x is incremented (x=x+1).

[0119] If not (N), it can be assumed that at least one basic module 110 in the column is defective. In this case, step 507 examines the basic modules 110 in the column one by one (Examine(Col(x))). An embodiment of step 507 is described in more detail in relation to Figures 12 and 13. If step 507 determines that a module 110 in the column is defective, a failure indicator flag is set to a value corresponding to a defect (Flag = 1). At the end of step 507, step 505 is performed, which increments rank x (x = x + 1).

[0120] After step 505, step 509 checks whether all columns have been examined (x>N). If not (N), step 503, step 507 (if applicable), step 505 and step 509 are repeated.

[0121] If all columns have been inspected (Y), then in step 511 it is determined whether the defect indicator flag has a value corresponding to the presence of a defect (flag=1). If so (Y), then a warning, e.g., a light warning, may be issued in step 513 (W). If no defects are detected (N), then the method ends.

[0122] FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of step 507 of examining columns of rank j=x in the method of FIG.

[0123] The method of FIG. 12 examines all elementary modules 110 in a column of rank j=x in turn to identify potentially defective modules.

[0124] In step 601, a row index y is initialized with the rank value of the first row of the array (y=1).

[0125] Next, in step 603, all basic modules 110 of the array are controlled to be in the ON state. Then, the current I ref is measured by the sensor 403.

[0126] In step 605, the basic module 110 y,x Stop the operation of the base module 110 y,x The other basic modules 110 of the device remain controlled to be in the ON state, and the total current I flowing through the device is measured by the sensor 403.

[0127] In step 607, the current I measured in step 605 is converted to the current I measured in step 603. Iref and a nominal reference value I stored in the memory circuit of the electronic control board 220, for example. ref_pix Compare with the difference between the nominal reference value I ref_pix corresponds to the current that would normally flow through the base module 110 if the base module were not defective.

[0128] In step 607, the current I is increased to a value I ref -I ref_pix If (Y) it is equal to or substantially equal to (within a predetermined tolerance, e.g., plus or minus 10 percent), then the module can be considered to be operating correctly. In this case, in step 609, the rank y is incremented (y=y+1).

[0129] If not applicable (N), module 110 y,x It can be assumed that the module is defective. Next, in step 611, a defect indicator flag is set to a value corresponding to defective (flag=1). The coordinates of the defective module in the array may also be stored and transmitted to a user, for example, via a user interface not described in detail. After step 611, step 609 is performed, which increments the rank y (y=y+1).

[0130] After step 609, step 613 checks whether all modules in the column of rank x have been examined (y>M). If not (N), steps 603, 607, 611 (if applicable), 609 and 613 are repeated.

[0131] If all modules in the column have been examined (Y), the step of examining the column ends.

[0132] The method of Figure 12 is a subtractive analysis method that is particularly adapted to detecting defects that reduce the power consumption of defective modules. This method minimizes module turn-off during the testing phase, which is particularly advantageous when testing is performed while the device is in use.

[0133] FIG. 13 shows an alternative embodiment of step 507 of examining columns of rank j=x in the method of FIG.

[0134] Here again, all elementary modules 110 in a column of rank j=x are examined in turn to identify potentially defective elementary modules.

[0135] In step 701, a row index y is initialized with the rank value of the first row of the array (y=1).

[0136] Next, in step 703, all basic modules 110 in the array are controlled to be in the ON state except for the basic module in the column of rank j=x. All basic modules in the column of rank j=x are controlled to be in the OFF state. Then, a current I ref is measured by the sensor 403.

[0137] In step 705, the basic module 110 y,x The other basic modules 110 of the device remain controlled in the same state as in step 703. After that, the total current I flowing through the device is measured by the sensor 403.

[0138] In step 707, the current I measured in step 705 is summed up as I ref +I ref_pix Compare with.

[0139] In step 707, the current I is increased to a value I ref +I ref_pixIf (Y) it is equal to or substantially equal to (within a predetermined tolerance, e.g., plus or minus 10 percent), then the module may be considered to be operating correctly. In this case, the rank y is incremented (y=y+1) in step 709.

[0140] If not applicable (N), module 110 y,x It can be assumed that the module is defective. Next, in step 711, a defect indicator flag is set to a value corresponding to defective (flag=1). The coordinates of the defective module in the array may also be stored and transmitted to a user, for example, via a user interface not described in detail. After step 711, step 709 is performed, which increments the rank y (y=y+1).

[0141] After step 709, step 713 checks whether all modules in the column of rank x have been examined (y>M). If not (N), then steps 703, 705, 707, 711 (if applicable), 709 and 713 are repeated.

[0142] If all modules in the column have been examined (Y), the step of examining the column ends.

[0143] The method of FIG. 13 is a method of additive analysis that is particularly adapted to detecting defects that cause excessive consumption of defective modules.

[0144] Depending on the needs of the application, step 507 of the method of FIG. 11 may choose to apply one or the other of the methods of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, or both, consecutively.

[0145] The reference value I used in step 503 (FIG. 11) ref_col is the current I col It should be noted that the reference value I used in step 607 (FIG. 12) or step 707 (FIG. 13) is selected depending on the level of the optical power setting applied to the base module during the measurement phase of (x). ref_pixis the current I ref The reference values ​​I are selected depending on the level of the optical power measurement applied to the base module during the measurement phase (step 603 or step 703). By way of example, the electronic control board 220 may store a number of reference values ​​I corresponding to different optical power setting levels of the base module. ref_col and multiple reference values ​​I ref_pix For start-up diagnostics, the basic module is preferably controlled at a relatively low brightness level, for example, less than 20 percent of the maximum brightness. In particular, in the case of a lighting balloon with an inflatable envelope, the lighting balloon envelope may not yet be inflated during the diagnostic phase. Therefore, by performing the diagnostics at a low brightness level, it is possible to limit the thermal stress of the device.

[0146] More generally, other testing methods than those described in relation to Figures 11, 12 and 13 may be performed based on measuring power consumption and comparing the measured power consumption with a reference value.

[0147] For example, for in-service diagnostics, a systematic inspection of all modules 110 with module-by-module subtractive analysis may be preferable. In other words, the method of Figure 12 is performed sequentially on all columns of the array, omitting the step of preselecting suspect columns (step 503 of Figure 11), thereby limiting the luminous flux loss to the equivalent of one module 110.

[0148] Alternatively, for customer service diagnostics, a systematic check of all modules 110 with a module-by-module additive analysis may be applied. In other words, the method of Fig. 13 is performed sequentially for all columns of the array, omitting the step of preselecting suspect columns (step 503 of Fig. 11). Furthermore, during step 703 of measuring the reference current, all basic modules 110 of the array are controlled to be in an off state. This makes it possible to limit power consumption during the check phase.

[0149] Once a defective module has been identified, more detailed supplemental testing may be performed to determine the cause of the failure.

[0150] It should further be noted that the diagnostic methods described above in relation to Figures 11, 12 and 13 may be applied to any lighting device comprising multiple basic modules 110 arranged in a row, including those in which the support structure of the device is non-conductive and / or does not ensure the function of equipotential reference potentials of the various basic modules 110.

[0151] 14 shows, in block form, an example of a method for controlling the inflation of an envelope of a lighting balloon with an inflatable envelope according to an embodiment. This method may be performed during inflation of the envelope when the device is first put into use. The method of FIG. 14 may be performed, for example, by the device's electronic distribution board 210 and electronic control board 220 (FIG. 7).

[0152] In this example, the inflation fan 174 of the device is a variable speed fan having a control data input / output port coupled to the electronic control board 220 via a data bus, e.g., a digital bus dBus, of the distribution board 210. The input / output port for controlling the fan 174 particularly has one or more input terminals adapted to receive a setpoint signal for the fan's power supply. The input / output port for controlling the fan further has one or more output terminals adapted to carry a return signal representing the effective rotational speed of the fan as measured by a rotational speed sensor (not shown in detail in the drawings) integrated into the fan.

[0153] Before the inflation stage, the envelope is first deflated and the inflation fan is turned off.

[0154] In step 801, the fan is controlled to an inflation power, e.g., maximum power, to rapidly inflate the envelope. During the inflation phase, the fan injects air into the balloon envelope. During this phase, the effective rotational speed of the fan, Ω Pis a substantially constant inflation value Ω, for example, that is determined depending on the power setting value given. G is maintained.

[0155] At the end of the inflation phase, i.e. once the envelope is filled with air, the air pressure inside the balloon settles to a value slightly higher than the external pressure, thus reducing the air flow moved by the fan. This causes the fan speed to increase (for a given power setting). The fan is said to cavitate.

[0156] According to an aspect of the embodiment, the effective rotational speed of the fan is monitored to detect cavitation, and from the detection result, it is inferred that the inflation of the balloon has ended.

[0157] In step 803, the effective rotation speed Ω of the fan is calculated. P is measured by the electronic control board 220. The electronic control board 220 converts the measured velocity Ω P is the expansion speed Ω G Higher cavitation velocity Ω CAV Determine whether it corresponds to

[0158] If cavitation is detected in step 803 (Y), the fan power setting is reduced in step 805. Therefore, the fan rotation speed Ω P is, for example, the expansion value Ω G Lower value Ω LOW This allows the pressure inside the balloon to be maintained substantially constant during the use phase while reducing the power consumption and noise of the fan.

[0159] If step 803 does not detect the onset of cavitation (N), step 807 (timeout) checks whether the time elapsed since the start of the expansion phase exceeds a predetermined threshold corresponding to the maximum nominal expansion time.

[0160] If step 807 determines that the maximum inflation time has not been exceeded (N), step 803 and, if applicable, step 807 may be repeated, for example, at regular time intervals.

[0161] If step 807 determines that the maximum inflation time has been exceeded (Y), then step 809 (W) can infer that the envelope may have a leak and a warning is issued to the user.

[0162] The method described in connection with FIG. 14 has the advantage that the end of the inflation phase, in case there is a possible leak in the balloon envelope, can be easily detected.

[0163] Other control and / or diagnostic methods based on analysis of the fan speed feedback signal may be performed by the electronic control board 220. As an example, by detecting an abnormally high rotational speed (for a given power setpoint), it may be determined that the fan intake filter is clogged. A warning message may then be displayed to the user to inform them that the filter needs to be cleaned. The effective rotational speed of the fan, Ω P If the power setting is not consistent with the power setting, a fan defect may be detected. A warning may be displayed to the user. If a failure of the inflation fan is detected, a lock-down of the device may be enabled. For example, the basic module 110 may be controlled to a low power, e.g., about 10% of the maximum power, to avoid possible degradation of the envelope due to the effects of heat emitted by the LEDs.

[0164] The various warnings sent to the user may be transmitted via a user interface device (not described in detail) of the lighting device, for example via a contactless communication channel, for example via a radio communication channel (for example of the Bluetooth type), for example to a mobile terminal of the smartphone type or to a remote maintenance facility. As a variant, the warnings may be issued in the form of optical signals, for example in the form of successive flashes in a predetermined sequence emitted by one or more basic modules 110 of the device.

[0165] It should be noted that the method of Fig. 14 is not limited to implementation in array lighting devices with LEDs of the type described above. More generally, the end-of-inflation detection method of Fig. 14 may be applied to any illuminated balloon with an inflatable envelope and inflation fan. In particular, the method may be applied to balloons integrating other types of illumination structures than those described above, such as incandescent-based structures.

[0166] Various embodiments and variations have been described. Those skilled in the art will understand that certain features of these various embodiments and variations may be combined, and other variations will occur to those skilled in the art. In particular, the described embodiments are not limited to the numerical or material examples set forth in this disclosure.

[0167] 1-5, the fixed supports 150 may be replaced by any other element adapted to ensure both the mechanical fixing of the basic modules 110 to the support structure 130 and the electrical connection of the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards 112 to the support structure 130 in order to ensure equipotential connection between the reference terminals of the various modules 110. By way of example, the fixed supports may be replaced by clamps each having a conductive portion connecting the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards 112 to the support structure 130.

[0168] This application is based on and claims the priority of French Patent Application No. 2012025, filed November 23, 2020, entitled "Dispositif d'eclairage", which is incorporated herein by reference as permitted by law.

Claims

1. - an electrically conductive support structure; a plurality of elementary lighting modules fixed to said support structure; It is equipped with the basic lighting module includes a printed circuit board, an LED assembly assembled on the printed circuit board, and an electronic circuit for supplying power to and controlling the LED assembly; In each basic lighting module, the printed circuit board of the basic lighting module has at least one reference terminal, and the reference terminals of the printed circuit boards of the basic lighting modules are electrically connected to each other via the support structure; The basic lighting modules are arranged in a plurality of rows, each row including a plurality of basic lighting modules, each basic lighting module having two power supply and control connectors, and the basic lighting modules in the same row are chain-connected via their respective power supply and control connectors; The lighting device further comprises power and control electronics connected to the ends of the strings.

2. 10. The lighting device of claim 1, wherein each elementary lighting module comprises a fixing support for fixing the elementary lighting module to the support structure.

3. 3. The lighting device of claim 2, wherein for each basic lighting module, the fixed support comprises a conductive portion electrically connecting a reference terminal of a printed circuit board of the basic lighting module to the support structure.

4. 4. The lighting device of claim 3, wherein the conductive portion comprises a conductive rod having conductive tabs at both ends thereof, the conductive tabs each having an opening through which the conductive rod of the support structure crosses.

5. 5. The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein each basic lighting module further comprises a transparent or translucent protective housing arranged in front of the printed circuit board of the basic lighting module, the protective housing being fixed to the fixed support.

6. 6. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the basic lighting modules are arranged according to steps in the shape of one or more prisms and are arranged on the side surfaces of the prisms.

7. 6. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the elementary lighting modules are arranged according to a planar configuration.

8. 8. A lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the power supply and control electronics is configured to perform a diagnostic method comprising measuring a quantity representative of the current consumed by a string and / or the voltage of a string of elementary lighting modules.

9. The power and control electronics a) controlling the elementary lighting modules of a string in an ON state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing through said string; b) controlling the elementary lighting modules of said string in an off state and measuring a value representative of the current flowing through said string; 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 deducing that the basic lighting module is defective if the difference between the nominal reference value and the difference exceeds a predetermined tolerance.

9. An illumination device according to claim 1, configured to perform a diagnostic method comprising:

10. 10. The lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a diffusing envelope surrounding the support structure and the elementary lighting module.

11. 11. The lighting device of claim 10, wherein the diffusing envelope is an inflatable envelope.

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