DALI Lighting Controller for Dynamic Master-Slave Role Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DALI systems face complexity in managing both Master and Slave functionalities within a single microcontroller, requiring separate networks for isolation and increasing operational complexity.

Innovation Solution

A controller that can dynamically switch between DALI Master and Slave modes based on network conditions, using a single microcontroller to simplify circuitry and reduce energy consumption by recognizing the presence of other Masters and adjusting its role accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate Master and Slave devices are used on the DALI network, then isolation requirements are met, but device complexity and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveisolation requirementVSAvoidcomplexity of managing two interfaces

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines both DALI Master and DALI Slave functionalities into a single device. The controller can dynamically switch between Master and Slave modes based on network conditions, eliminating the need for separate devices while maintaining isolation requirements through proper network management and role switching mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller implements dynamic role switching between Master and Slave modes. The device can detect network conditions and automatically transition between roles as needed, making the system more flexible and reducing complexity compared to fixed-role separate devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a controller runs both Master and Slave functionalities continuously, then both functions are available, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveboth Master and Slave functionalityVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The controller implements periodic role switching between Master and Slave modes based on network conditions. Instead of running both functions continuously, the device activates only the necessary function at any given time, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The controller dynamically changes its operational parameters by switching between Master and Slave modes. This parameter change allows the device to adapt its behavior and energy consumption based on real-time network conditions, optimizing power usage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If separate Master and Slave networks are used, then isolation is maintained, but circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveisolationVSAvoidcircuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the isolation function into a single controller that can operate in both Master and Slave modes. By combining the functionalities and using a unified circuit design with dynamic role switching, the patent reduces circuit complexity while maintaining isolation requirements through proper network management.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3718377B1Method and device for controlling a lighting system

Publication Date: 2025.10.01 INVENTRONICS GMBH

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AI summary

A controller for accessing a network of lighting system devices, the controller comprising: a communication subsystem configured to allow the controller to be identified as a node on the network, and to communicate according to a first protocol with at least one of said lighting system devices on the network; wherein the controller is configured to detect the presence of a Master lighting system device on the network via the first protocol; wherein the controller is configured to assume a role based on the detection.