LED Flasher Bulb Integrating Control Circuit for AC Polarity Independence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED string lights require an external control circuit board to achieve a flashing function, which can be cumbersome, especially when hanging them in difficult locations, and are not functional when the AC signal is negative.
Innovation Solution
An LED flasher bulb with an integrated circuit, including a voltage regulator, switch, controller, and power storage, that allows the bulb to alternate between on and off states independently of the AC signal's polarity, eliminating the need for an external device and enabling continuous operation regardless of the AC signal's positive or negative state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an external control circuit board is used to provide flashing function, then the flashing function is achieved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to cumbersome external device attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control circuit board functionality directly into the LED bulb by integrating a control circuit, power storage component, and switching element within the bulb structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate external control devices while maintaining the flashing function, thereby reducing overall system complexity and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED bulb becomes self-sufficient by incorporating its own power storage component (capacitor) and control circuitry. The bulb can store energy during the positive half-cycle of AC power and release it during the negative half-cycle, enabling the flashing function without requiring external power management devices. The bulb serves itself by generating and managing its own operating power independently.
2Use of energy by moving object
If traditional LED string lights are used with AC power supply, then the lights can be powered, but they are not functional when the AC signal is negative
Solution Approach 1:
The power storage component (capacitor) performs preliminary action by storing electrical energy during the positive half-cycle of the AC signal before the negative half-cycle occurs. This pre-stored energy enables the LED to continue functioning during the negative half-cycle when the AC signal would otherwise be non-conductive, ensuring continuous operation throughout the entire AC cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical parameter state by using the capacitor to convert the pulsating DC from half-wave rectification into a more stable power supply. The capacitor smooths out the voltage fluctuations and maintains a continuous voltage level during both positive and negative AC cycles, enabling reliable LED operation regardless of AC signal polarity.
3Area of stationary object
If LED string lights are hung in difficult places, then decorative coverage is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in attaching external control devices
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the control functionality into the bulb itself, the system eliminates the need for separate external control devices that would require additional wiring and attachment points. The integrated design allows for simpler installation in difficult-to-reach locations since no external control box or separate power management device needs to be physically attached or accessed.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-sufficient bulb design with built-in power storage and control circuitry eliminates the need for external control devices that would be difficult to install in hard-to-reach places. The bulb independently manages its own power and flashing operations, making installation as simple as replacing a regular LED bulb without requiring access to mounting locations for external control equipment.
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
Enables a flashing function for LED string lights without an external device, ensuring continuous operation and functionality regardless of the AC signal's polarity, providing a convenient and reliable solution for decorative lighting.
Implementation Method 1
The voltage regulator is a voltage stabilizing circuit that provides a stable working power internally for the integrated circuit
Implementation Method 2
The power storage stores the steady power signal generated by the voltage regulator when the AC signal is positive, and provides the steady power signal to the controller when the AC signal is negative
Implementation Method 3
The LED is inserted into the LED socket. The LED socket provides electrical connections to electrically couple the LED to the LED string lights
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide a light emitting diode (LED) flasher bulb that provides a flashing function for LED string lights. The LED flasher bulb is inserted into any one of a plurality of connectors of the LED string lights, and is compatible with an alternating current power source. The LED flasher bulb alternates the LED string lights between an on state in which LEDs of the LED string lights are lit up, and an off state in which the LEDs are not lit up. The LED flasher bulb is able to continuously alternate the LED string lights between the on state and the off state according to a determined pattern independent of the AC signal generated by the AC power source being positive or negative.