Programmable LED Light Assembly with Adaptive Constant Current Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LED vehicle marker light systems are inefficient and lack effective light dispersion characteristics, and existing programmable LED systems do not offer flexible and reliable operation in coordinated series, especially under varying voltage conditions and environmental exposure.
Innovation Solution
A programmable LED light assembly with microcontrollers, constant current drive, and communication protocols that allow for coordinated operation across multiple fixtures, including master-slave configurations, and adaptive lighting modes to handle voltage fluctuations and environmental conditions, using hermetically sealed LEDs with optimized lenses for improved visibility and light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If LED technology is used to replace incandescent lighting systems, then reliability and operating life are improved, but light dispersion characteristics and efficiency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different lens types (clear, prismatic, or diffusing) for different LED modules based on their specific functional requirements. Each lens type is strategically placed to optimize light dispersion in specific directions, with clear lenses for forward visibility and prismatic/diffusing lenses for rear and side visibility, thereby resolving the light dispersion issue while maintaining LED reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces lenses as intermediary elements between the LED light sources and the external environment. These lenses (clear, prismatic, or diffusing) act as mediators that modify and optimize the light dispersion characteristics of LEDs, enabling improved light distribution patterns while preserving the inherent reliability and long operating life of LED technology
2Adaptability or versatility
If programmable LED light fixtures are operated in coordinated series, then flexibility and functionality are improved, but system complexity and communication reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the coordinated lighting system into independent modular fixtures, each with its own microcontroller unit. Each fixture can operate autonomously or in coordination with others, allowing the system to scale from simple single-fixture applications to complex multi-fixture installations without requiring complete system redesign, thereby managing complexity while maintaining flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing fixtures with multi-functional capability through programmable microcontrollers that can execute various lighting patterns (steady, flashing, sequential, synchronized). The same hardware platform supports multiple functions and coordination modes, reducing overall system complexity by avoiding the need for different specialized fixtures for different applications
3Illumination intensity
If constant current drive is used to maintain consistent illumination under varying voltages, then illumination stability is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing constant current drive circuits that automatically regulate and adjust their operation based on detected voltage conditions without requiring external control. The circuits self-adjust to maintain consistent LED current and illumination output across varying voltage inputs, reducing the need for complex external control systems while ensuring illumination stability
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
The solution provides reliable, flexible, and efficient operation of LED light fixtures as marker or emergency lights, maintaining consistent illumination across a range of voltages and environmental conditions, with improved light dispersion and visibility, enabling coordinated operation in series.
Implementation Method 1
light emitting diodes (LEDs), which have an operating life of up to 100,000 hours before significant degradation
Data Source
AI summary
Programmable light assemblies that may function in various operating modes, such as to function as marker lights and/or emergency lights, or have other functions, are disclosed. The protocol and architecture of the light assemblies enables the associated light fixtures to provide a constant current output despite the presence of substantially large voltage ranges, and even when submerged in water. Alternative embodiments of the programmable light assemblies of the invention provide many other features as described herein.