Germicidal Amalgam Lamp Temperature Sensor Startup Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Germicidal UV amalgam lamps face challenges in starting up from cold temperatures, which can lead to electrode filament damage and reduced service life, as existing technologies do not effectively manage this process.
Innovation Solution
A germicidal UV amalgam lamp with a temperature sensor mounted near the pinch-sealed end, allowing for accurate estimation of filament temperature in the off-state, enabling the power supply to select optimal starting parameters and potentially pre-heating the filaments if necessary, along with monitoring and controlling the lamp's operation to prevent overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lamp is started from cold temperatures without temperature monitoring, then the starting process is simple, but the electrode filaments may be damaged and service life reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the lamp body structure itself as an intermediary to mount the temperature sensor. The sensor is integrated into the lamp body near the pinch-sealed end, using the existing structural components (socket, pinch-sealed portion) as a mounting platform. This eliminates the need for separate external temperature monitoring equipment while still providing reliable filament temperature estimation.
2Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor is mounted inside the lamp body near the amalgam, then the temperature measurement is accurate, but the sensor is exposed to harsh conditions and may fail
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the temperature sensor at a specific location near the pinch-sealed end of the lamp body, which is close enough to the filament to provide accurate temperature estimation during off-state, but not directly in the path of the gas discharge. This localized positioning provides the optimal balance between measurement accuracy and protection from harsh operating conditions.
3Ease of operation
If the lamp operates without temperature-based starting control, then the operation is simple, but the starting parameters are not optimized leading to filament damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary temperature measurement before lamp startup using the integrated temperature sensor. The control system reads the temperature during the off-state, then uses this information to determine appropriate starting parameters such as pre-heating duration and starting voltage. This preliminary action ensures the filament is properly prepared before the high-stress starting phase, preventing damage while maintaining operational simplicity.
4Reliability
If the lamp is continuously monitored during operation, then overheating can be detected, but the monitoring system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor serves multiple functions: it estimates filament temperature during off-state to determine optimal starting parameters, monitors temperature during operation to detect overheating conditions, and provides data for efficiency optimization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate monitoring systems while providing comprehensive protection and control.
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
This solution improves the start-up process, extends the service life of the lamp, and enhances safety by preventing filament damage and premature aging, while also allowing for centralized monitoring and control of temperature across multiple lamps, aiding in early detection of potential issues like overheating or external thermal problems.
Implementation Method 1
the measured temperature of the temperature sensor will be a good indicator of the lamp temperature because, either the lamp has been switched off for a longer time, then both the filament and the sensor will be close to the ambient temperature, or they have been switched off recently, then they will both be at an elevated temperature
Implementation Method 2
the gas discharge as a heat source has vanished
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a method of operating a germicidal UV amalgam lamp (2) with an elongated tubular lamp body (3) and at least two filaments (10) located on opposite ends (1) of the lamp body (3), wherein an electrical temperature sensor (12, 17) with at least two electrical connections is sealed into a socket (11) and wherein the temperature is determined before the start-up of the lamp.