DALI Lamp Operating Device Mode Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing illumination systems with DALI-standard lamp operating devices are costly and inflexible, as they require high initial investment for features like dimming, which may not be needed by all users, and incur significant costs for modifications when user needs change, such as with tenant changes in larger buildings.

Innovation Solution

An illumination system with a control unit that allows lamp operating devices to be operated in different modes, enabling users to switch between basic on/off functionality and extended dimming capabilities through remote control commands, using DALI-standard compatible software changes to release or block operational modes, allowing for flexible adaptation to user needs without costly reprogramming or device exchange.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If DALI-standard lamp operating devices with dimming functionality are installed, then brightness control capability is improved, but initial investment cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrightness control capabilityVSAvoidinitial investment cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The lamp operating device is designed to perform multiple functions (switching and dimming) but allows users to selectively enable only the necessary functions. The device universally supports both basic switching and extended dimming capabilities, letting users access full functionality only when needed, thus avoiding unnecessary initial investment for features that may not be required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The functional capabilities of the lamp operating device are made dynamic and adaptable. Users can change the operational mode of the device from basic switching only to full dimming capability through remote control commands. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to changing user needs without requiring physical hardware changes or costly reprogramming.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If lamp operating devices are programmed with extended functions, then functionality is improved, but complexity of system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional scopeVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The functional scope of the lamp operating device is segmented into distinct operational modes: basic switching mode and extended dimming mode. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing functions into manageable modules that can be selectively activated. The control unit handles mode selection while the lamp operating device executes the corresponding functions, dividing the system complexity into separable components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit acts as an intermediary between the user and the lamp operating device. It receives user preferences, determines the appropriate operational mode, and translates this into commands for the lamp operating device. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing the decision-making logic and avoiding the need for complex programming at the device level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If users need different functional ranges, then adaptability to user needs is improved, but cost of modifications increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to user needsVSAvoidcost of modifications
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables dynamic adaptation to different user needs through remote control commands that change operational modes. When a new tenant moves in or user preferences change, the control unit can be remotely programmed to adjust the functional range of lamp operating devices without physical modifications. This dynamic reconfiguration allows cost-effective adaptation to varying requirements over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (functional capabilities) through software-based mode selection rather than hardware modifications. The control unit adjusts parameters such as dimming capability, switching timing, and brightness levels by changing operational modes via remote commands. This parameter-based approach avoids costly physical modifications while maintaining high adaptability to user needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If lamp operating devices maintain consistent lighting levels, then lighting quality is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting quality consistencyVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements periodic adjustment of lamp operating modes to maintain consistent lighting levels. The control unit periodically monitors lighting requirements and adjusts operational parameters accordingly. This periodic action allows the system to compensate for lamp degradation over time while optimizing energy consumption by adjusting brightness levels based on actual needs rather than maintaining constant high power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor lighting performance and adjust operational modes. By receiving feedback about lighting quality and user preferences, the system can make intelligent adjustments to maintain consistent illumination while optimizing energy usage. The feedback loop enables the system to learn from usage patterns and reduce energy consumption during periods when full brightness is not required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8410722B2Illumination system
Publication Date: 2013.04.02 ZUMTOBEL LIGHTING GMBH
  • US8410722B2 patent drawing
  • US8410722B2 patent drawing
  • US8410722B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In an illumination system (1) having a control unit (2) and at least one de-central lamp operating device (12, 22) for operating one or more associated lamps (LA), the lamp operating device (12, 22) can be operated in different operational modes. In accordance with the invention the central control unit (2) and the lamp operating device (12, 22) are so configured that the selection and setting of an operational mode for the lamp operating device (12, 22) can be carried out from or via the central control unit (2).