DMX Networkable LED Controller for Synchronized RGB Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for new controllers that can effectively control multicolored LED light strips, particularly those with RGB or WWA LEDs, to vary color, intensity, and brightness, and synchronize light shows across multiple units, while being cost-effective and flexible for various applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of LED controller devices with a housing, circuit board, and connectors that use a DMX network interface to generate control signals for RGB or WWA LEDs, incorporating ramp generators for random color changes and microcontrollers for pre-programmed light shows, allowing synchronization through AC power modulation and connection to LED light strips or fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lighting controllers are used for LED light strips, then basic on/off control is achieved, but color variation and synchronized light shows across multiple units cannot be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to handle multiple LED types (monochromatic and multicolor RGB/WWA) through a single unified device that can execute various control modes including color washing, fading, and synchronized light shows. The controller universally supports different LED configurations and can be scaled for single or multiple light strip control
Solution Approach 2:
The controller incorporates separate dedicated circuits for controlling different LED color channels (red, green, blue for RGB; white, warm white, amber for WWA). This segmentation allows independent control of each color channel while maintaining a unified controller architecture, enabling versatile color manipulation without requiring multiple specialized controllers
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple LED light strips are controlled independently, then individual control flexibility is maintained, but synchronized light shows across units cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple LED light strips are controlled by a single unified controller that sends synchronized control signals to all connected strips simultaneously. The controller merges the control of multiple strips into one coordinated system, enabling synchronized light shows while maintaining individual strip flexibility through addressable LED addressing
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements periodic control cycles that sequentially address and update multiple LED strips in a coordinated manner. By using periodic scanning and updating mechanisms, the controller maintains synchronization across all connected light strips while allowing for complex synchronized light show patterns
3Ease of manufacture
If custom controllers are developed for specific LED applications, then precise control is achieved, but cost-effectiveness and flexibility for various applications are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal solution that can control various LED types (monochromatic, RGB, WWA) and support multiple control modes (color washing, fading, synchronized shows) through a single device architecture. This universality reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for multiple specialized controllers while maintaining application flexibility through software-configurable control modes
Solution Approach 2:
The controller allows dynamic adjustment of control parameters including color mixing ratios, transition speeds, intensity levels, and patterns through programmable settings. By enabling parameter changes without hardware modification, the controller achieves application flexibility while maintaining a standardized, cost-effective manufacturing platform
Data Source
AI summary
LED controller devices (e.g., color changing modules) that may be connected to an LED fixture (e.g., an LED light strip or series of LED light strips) having multicolored LED lights or LED's which otherwise vary in intensity, color, brightness, etc. In some embodiments, the LED light strips may incorporate red/green/blue (RGB) LEDs or white/warm white/amber (WWA) LEDs. This LED controller device operates to vary the colors emitted by the LED lights in accordance with desired programs, colors, tones, light shows, etc. The controller devices of this invention may be used in a stand alone LED lighting fixture of part of a network, such as a network that uses a form of RS-485 architecture known as a “Digital Multiplexed Interface” (DMX) as frequently used for control of lighting.