LED Driver Multiplexer for Independent String Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED driver systems for multistring LEDs require multiple separate power converters and controllers for each LED string, leading to inefficiencies, increased cost, and complexity, with poor color control and thermal dependency issues.
Innovation Solution
A single power converter and controller system that uses a multiplexer to independently control current for each series of LEDs, providing local regulation and compensation for age, temperature, and production variations, while being backwards-compatible with legacy systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate power converters and controllers are used for each LED string, then independent control of each LED string is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate power converters and controllers into a single integrated power converter with a multiplexer system. The multiplexer selectively connects the single power converter to different LED strings, enabling independent control without requiring separate converters for each string. This reduces component count and system complexity while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power converter is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple LED strings through the multiplexer. The converter can dynamically switch its output to different LED strings based on control signals, making one converter perform the function of multiple converters. This multi-functionality approach eliminates redundancy while preserving independent control of each LED string.
2Reliability
If redundant drivers are used for every LED string, then reliable current control is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple redundant driver functions into a single power converter equipped with a multiplexer and control circuitry. The control system manages the switching and current regulation for different LED strings, eliminating the need for multiple separate redundant drivers. This reduces component count and manufacturing cost while maintaining reliable current control through the integrated control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power converter with multiplexer implements self-service control by automatically managing current distribution to different LED strings based on control signals. The integrated control system handles switching, current regulation, and protection functions that would otherwise require separate redundant drivers, reducing system cost while maintaining reliability through intelligent control.
3Measurement precision
If separate linear regulators are used for each LED string, then precise current regulation is achieved, but power conversion efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical linear regulator system with a switching power converter system controlled by a microcontroller. Instead of using linear regulators that dissipate excess power as heat, the switching converter uses electronic switching elements (MOSFETs, diodes, inductors) to efficiently convert power while maintaining precise current regulation through digital control. This substitution dramatically improves power conversion efficiency while preserving current regulation precision.
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 enables efficient, cost-effective, and comprehensive control of LED brightness and color, with faster response times and improved color accuracy, reducing the need for redundant components and communication protocols.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter adapted to generate a current
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of series (strings) of light-emitting diodes
Implementation Method 3
light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are utilized for a wide variety of applications
Data Source
AI summary
Method and computer-readable medium embodiments provide for sourcing current to a series of light-emitting diodes in a plurality of series of light-emitting diodes. A method comprises generating a current, sequentially and separately switching the current to each of the series of light-emitting diodes in the plurality of series of light-emitting diodes for a corresponding period of time, and predicting an output voltage across a selected series of light-emitting diodes using a plurality of parameters stored in a memory.