LED Driver Frequency Sweep for EMC Improvement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing LED operating devices with resonant converters face challenges in improving electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) due to constant operating frequencies, which can lead to interference issues.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a frequency sweep mode in the LLC circuit's clocked operation, where the switching frequency is modulated through forward or feedforward control, maintaining a constant average frequency while cyclically accelerating and decelerating, thereby enhancing EMC without relying on feedback loops.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If the LLC circuit is operated at a constant frequency, then the power consumption is stable and efficient, but the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) deteriorates due to electromagnetic interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumption stabilityVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static constant frequency operation to a dynamic frequency sweep mode. The switching frequency is continuously varied within a range centered around a nominal value, creating a time-varying operating condition that maintains average power efficiency while reducing electromagnetic interference through frequency diversity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the frequency parameter from a fixed constant value to a dynamically varying value within a specified range. By sweeping the switching frequency around the nominal frequency, the system maintains the average power consumption characteristics while altering the electromagnetic spectrum distribution to improve EMC.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a frequency sweep is applied to improve EMC, then electromagnetic interference is reduced, but the control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectromagnetic interferenceVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action through the cyclic frequency sweep pattern. The switching frequency is varied periodically within a defined range, creating a systematic and repeatable modulation pattern that reduces electromagnetic interference without requiring complex adaptive control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit generates the frequency sweep internally using its existing clocking and control capabilities. The system uses its own operating parameters to create the frequency variation, eliminating the need for external complex control systems or additional hardware components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 approach effectively improves EMC by reducing electromagnetic interference, ensuring stable power supply to LEDs while maintaining efficient power consumption and dimming control, even under varying light power conditions.

Implementation Method 1

the LLC circuit is operated at a constant frequency in the range of resonance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 2

The output voltage of the LLC circuit is subjected to potential isolation via a transformer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10602576B2Operation of an illuminant by means of a resonant converter
Publication Date: 2020.03.24 TRIDONIC GMBH & CO KG
  • US10602576B2 patent drawing
  • US10602576B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to an operating device for loads in the form of lighting means, particularly for LEDs, comprising: a clocked converter (B) having a switching element (20); a control unit (C) for switching the switching element (20) with an operating frequency, the operating frequency of the converter (B) being modulated as a forward or feedforward control.