Emergency Luminaire Driver Using a Dual-Function Test Button
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current emergency drivers for emergency lighting systems are costly and complex due to the need for multiple actuators and communication interfaces, which increases component density and manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and emergency driver configuration that utilize a single test button with a double assignment of functions, allowing users to set and adjust the emergency lighting operation duration by inputting specific actuation patterns, thereby eliminating the need for additional switches or communication chips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple actuators (buttons and switches) are added to emergency driver for setting and adjusting functions, then the functionality and ease of operation are improved, but the component density and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test button is assigned multiple functions: it serves both as a test function button and as a means for setting the emergency lighting operation duration. By detecting different actuation patterns (single press vs. prolonged press), the same physical component performs multiple configuration tasks, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the test function and the duration setting function into a single button interface. The controller merges the interpretation of button presses into a unified system that distinguishes between test commands and configuration commands based on press duration, thereby reducing the total number of physical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If NFC or DALI communication interfaces are integrated into emergency driver for remote control, then the adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the component density and manufacturing cost greatly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive communication interfaces (NFC, DALI) with a simple, low-cost button press mechanism. The button-based configuration method uses basic electrical contacts and control logic that are already present in the emergency driver, avoiding the need for additional communication chips and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining sufficient functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The emergency driver provides self-configuration capability through its existing test button, allowing users to set the operation duration without requiring external communication devices or additional interfaces. The system serves itself by using its own built-in components for both testing and configuration purposes.
3Ease of operation
If multiple actuators are added to emergency driver for setting functions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing cost and component density increase
Solution Approach 1:
The test button performs multiple functions including testing the emergency lighting system and configuring the operation duration. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and tested, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the configuration function from separate physical actuators and integrates it into the existing test button functionality. By removing the need for additional buttons and switches, the manufacturing process is simplified, focusing only on the essential test button and its control logic.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method for setting an emergency lighting operation duration of an emergency driver (110) and such an emergency driver (110), whereas the emergency driver (110) is connected to an emergency luminaire (120). The emergency driver (110) and the luminaire (120) further form an emergency lighting system (100). Hereby the emergency driver (110) is configured to perform the provided method, whereas a user can individually set the emergency lighting operation duration via actuating a double assigned test button (140) in a respective manner.