Lighting Dimmer Output Mapping for Precision Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting dimmers have limited precision control at low measured light levels due to the non-linear relationship between measured and perceived light, resulting in a restricted dimming level range and sensitivity issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that map dimming output signal values using a predetermined lighting output function to generate light source control signals, allowing for a wider intensity range and improved precision control by converting duty cycles into digital data and applying signal processing to alter transition timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional dimmers are used to control light intensity, then the light source can be dimmed to save energy and adjust intensity, but the precision control at low light levels is limited due to non-linear relationship between measured and perceived light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the dimmer output signal through a lookup table that remaps duty cycle values to corrected duty cycle values. This non-linear transformation compensates for the human eye's non-linear perception of light intensity, enabling precise control at low light levels by adjusting the mapping parameters based on perceived brightness rather than raw measured values
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the actual light output and comparing it with the desired perceived brightness level. The controller uses this feedback information to adjust the duty cycle mapping in real-time, ensuring that the perceived brightness matches the user's expectations across the entire dimming range from 95% to less than 5%
2Adaptability or versatility
If duty cycles are converted to digital data for mapping, then a wider intensity range can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a lookup table that stores pre-calculated mapping between duty cycle values and corrected duty cycle values. This copying approach allows the system to achieve wide intensity range without complex real-time calculations, as the mapping data is pre-computed and stored, reducing the computational burden during actual operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex analog signal processing with digital data processing. By converting the dimmer output signal into digital data and using a lookup table for mapping, the patent achieves precise intensity control across a wider range while simplifying the overall system architecture compared to purely analog solutions
3Measurement precision
If signal processing is applied to alter transition timing, then precision control at low light levels is enhanced, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing the duty cycle to corrected duty cycle mapping in a lookup table before actual operation. This allows the system to quickly retrieve and apply the appropriate mapping during real-time operation without performing complex calculations, thus enhancing precision control while minimizing processing time delays
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method map dimming levels of a lighting dimmer to light source control signals using a predetermined lighting output function. The dimmer generates a dimmer output signal value. At any particular period of time, the dimmer output signal value represents one of multiple dimming levels. In at least one embodiment, the lighting output function maps the dimmer output signal value to a dimming value different than the dimming level represented by the dimmer output signal value. The lighting output function converts a dimmer output signal values corresponding to measured light levels to perception based light levels. A light source driver operates a light source in accordance with the predetermined lighting output function. The system and method can include a filter to modify at least a set of the dimmer output signal values prior to mapping the dimmer output signal values to a new dimming level.