Dimming Controller Converts Bi-Level Lighting to Dimmable Systems

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bi-level lighting systems offer limited energy savings due to their restricted two-level partial lighting control, and upgrading to dimmable systems requires costly and time-consuming rewiring, making it impractical to replace existing infrastructure.

Innovation Solution

A dimming controller and driver system that utilizes existing Class 1 conductors to generate a 0-10 volt DC dimming signal referenced to AC voltage, allowing for the conversion of bi-level lighting systems to dimmable systems without modifying existing wiring, by integrating a dimming controller in the switch box and a dimming driver at the light fixture location.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If existing bi-level lighting systems are replaced with dimmable lighting systems, then energy-saving capabilities and dimming range are improved, but installation cost and time increase due to required rewiring

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy-saving capabilitiesVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The existing Class 1 conductors are made multi-functional by using them for both power transmission and dimming signal transmission. The dimming controller generates a dimming signal that rides on the same Class 1 conductors used for power delivery, eliminating the need for separate dimming control wires and enabling universal use of existing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The dimming controller acts as an intermediary device that converts standard Class 1 power conductors into dual-purpose carriers that can transmit both power and dimming control signals. This intermediary function allows the system to bridge between existing bi-level infrastructure and modern dimmable lighting requirements without physical rewiring.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of energy

If existing bi-level lighting systems are replaced with dimmable lighting systems, then energy-saving capabilities are improved, but installation complexity and cost increase due to wiring modifications

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy-saving capabilitiesVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The existing Class 1 conductors are made multi-functional by using them for both power transmission and dimming signal transmission. The dimming controller generates a dimming signal that rides on the same Class 1 conductors used for power delivery, eliminating the need for separate dimming control wires and enabling universal use of existing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes the existing Class 1 conductors to serve dual purposes - both power delivery and dimming control signals. The infrastructure serves itself by carrying control signals without requiring additional dedicated control wiring, reducing installation complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If bi-level switches are replaced with dimming controllers, then dimming range is improved from two levels to continuous adjustment, but wiring requirements become more stringent

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedimming rangeVSAvoidwiring requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The existing Class 1 conductors are made multi-functional by using them for both power transmission and dimming signal transmission. The dimming controller generates a dimming signal that rides on the same Class 1 conductors used for power delivery, eliminating the need for separate dimming control wires and enabling universal use of existing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables the conversion of bi-level lighting systems to dimmable systems with enhanced energy-saving capabilities without the need for rewiring, simplifying the installation process and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

the dimming signal generator is operative to provide a dimming signal indicative of a dimming light level at the dimming signal output, and the dimming signal is referenced to an AC voltage received at the voltage input

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVoltage reference to AC voltage:

Data Source

PatentUS10285235B2Systems, apparatus, and methods for converting a bi-level lighting system to a dimmable lighting system

Publication Date: 2019.05.07 ABL IP HLDG LLC

AI summary

A dimmable lighting system may replace a bi-level lighting system without having to modify or supplement the existing wiring between a bi-level control unit and one or more light fixtures. The dimmable lighting system may include a dimming controller that may be configured to replace a bi-level control unit in situ (i.e., e.g., in a wall-mounted dual-gang switch box). The dimmable lighting system may also include a dimming driver that may be coupled to the dimming controller via the existing wiring of the bi-level lighting system. The dimming controller may output to the dimming driver a 0-10 volt DC dimming signal referenced to an AC utility voltage. In response, a dimmable lighting device coupled to the dimming driver may output light over a wide range of dimming light levels. Methods of replacing a bi-level lighting system with a dimmable lighting system are also provided, as are other aspects.