Dynamic Voltage Control for Automotive Pixelated Light Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminous systems for automotive vehicles using pixelated light sources controlled by electric current face issues with power losses and overheating due to the use of statically configured converter circuits that deliver a constant voltage, which is often higher than needed, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage to sensitive semiconductor elements.
Innovation Solution
A luminous device with a controlled converter circuit and measuring means that dynamically adapt the voltage delivered to the pixelated light source based on real-time measurements of voltage drops and temperature, ensuring a headroom voltage that is neither too high nor too low, thereby reducing power losses and overheating risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a statically configured converter circuit delivers a constant voltage to the pixelated light source, then the light source can operate at maximum current draw, but power losses increase and the risk of overheating semiconductor elements increases when current draw is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The converter circuit transitions from a static constant voltage configuration to a dynamic controlled configuration that adjusts voltage output based on real-time current draw requirements. The control means continuously monitors the actual current draw and photometric output, dynamically adjusting the converter voltage to match actual needs, thereby eliminating excess power delivery and associated losses.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback control system is implemented where control means continuously monitor the current draw and photometric output of the pixelated light source, feed this information back to the converter circuit, and adjust the voltage output accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures the converter delivers exactly the voltage needed, preventing power losses and overheating.
2Power
If a statically configured converter circuit delivers a constant voltage to the pixelated light source, then the light source can operate at maximum current draw, but the risk of overheating and damaging semiconductor elements increases when current draw is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The converter circuit transitions from a static constant voltage configuration to a dynamic controlled configuration that adjusts voltage output based on real-time current draw requirements. The control means continuously monitors the actual current draw and photometric output, dynamically adjusting the converter voltage to match actual needs, thereby eliminating excess power delivery and associated losses.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback control system is implemented where control means continuously monitor the current draw and photometric output of the pixelated light source, feed this information back to the converter circuit, and adjust the voltage output accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures the converter delivers exactly the voltage needed, preventing power losses and overheating.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the converter circuit delivers a constant voltage that is sufficiently high for maximum current draw, then the light source can operate correctly under all conditions, but the voltage is oversized and too high for lower current draw conditions, leading to power losses
Solution Approach 1:
The converter circuit transitions from a static constant voltage configuration to a dynamic controlled configuration that adjusts voltage output based on real-time current draw requirements. The control means continuously monitors the actual current draw and photometric output, dynamically adjusting the converter voltage to match actual needs, thereby eliminating excess power delivery and associated losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter circuit dynamically changes its operating parameters (voltage output) based on the actual current draw and photometric requirements of the pixelated light source. Instead of delivering a fixed constant voltage, the system adjusts voltage levels to match actual needs, optimizing power delivery across different operating conditions and eliminating unnecessary power losses.
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
The solution effectively reduces power losses and minimizes the risk of overheating in the pixelated light sources, ensuring efficient operation and extending the lifespan of the semiconductor elements by dynamically adjusting the voltage delivery to match the current draw and photometric requirements.
Implementation Method 1
A light-emitting diode (LED) is a semiconductor electronic component which is capable of emitting light of a predetermined wavelength when a voltage which is at least equal to a threshold value is applied to its terminals
Data Source
AI summary
The invention proposes a luminous device involving a converter intended to supply power to a pixelated light source controlled by electric current. The device makes it possible to reduce power losses and to reduce the risk of the elementary light sources of the pixelated light source overheating. By using a control loop and measuring means which make it possible to directly or indirectly measure a value which is indicative of the voltage drop at the terminals of at least one current source of the pixelated light source, it becomes possible to dynamically adapt the voltage delivered by the converter circuit.