Automotive LED Control via Temporal Power Multiplexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automotive vehicle LED systems face challenges in rationalizing the integration and electrical power supply of multiple LED assemblies, with complex architectures and increased components making synchronization of functions difficult, and requiring additional power modules for each function.
Innovation Solution
A process and device that use a single power module to control multiple LED assemblies by modulating electrical power levels and temporally multiplexing them, allowing for flexible adaptation to the number of assemblies and functions, with adjustable multiplexing periods to optimize power delivery and reduce overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power module is allocated to each LED assembly, then each LED assembly receives dedicated electrical power supply, but the number of electrical components increases and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power modules into a single shared power module that serves multiple LED assemblies. The control module integrates power management functionality for multiple LED assemblies, reducing the total number of power modules while maintaining dedicated power control through temporal multiplexing.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power module is designed to serve multiple functions by providing power to different LED assemblies at different times. The control module implements universal power management that can dynamically allocate power to various LED assemblies based on their specific functions and requirements.
2Ease of operation
If multiple power modules are used for multiple LED assemblies, then each assembly has dedicated power control, but synchronization of functions becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power control functions into a single control module that manages all LED assemblies centrally. This unified control approach simplifies synchronization by providing a single point of coordination, while still enabling independent power control through temporal multiplexing of power delivery to different assemblies.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional functions are added to LED assemblies, then vehicle lighting capabilities are enhanced, but additional power modules are required
Solution Approach 1:
The single power module is designed with universal capabilities to support multiple lighting functions (parking lights, turn indicators, day running lights, cornering lights, etc.) by dynamically allocating power to different LED assemblies based on their specific function requirements. The control module implements flexible power distribution that adapts to various lighting scenarios without requiring additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic power allocation where the single power module can change its output characteristics in real-time to match the requirements of different LED assemblies and lighting functions. The control module dynamically adjusts power delivery timing and intensity based on the specific function being performed, enabling versatile lighting capabilities from a unified power source.
4Device complexity
If a single power module controls multiple LED assemblies, then component complexity is reduced, but power delivery must be temporally multiplexed
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic temporal multiplexing where the single power module delivers power to different LED assemblies in alternating time slots. The control module manages periodic power delivery cycles, switching between assemblies in a coordinated manner that ensures each receives adequate power while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporal multiplexing is designed to provide continuous useful action across all LED assemblies. By carefully coordinating the switching timing and power delivery duration, the system ensures that power is continuously delivered to the system as a whole, with each assembly receiving intermittent but sufficient power to maintain its function throughout the multiplexing cycle.
Data Source
AI summary
A process and a device for controlling a plurality of LED assemblies of an automotive vehicle, each LED assembly (Gi) executing a specific lighting/signalling function. The electrical power level (Pi) delivered by the electrical source is modulated according to distinct power levels (Pi) with relation to the function associated with each LED assembly (Gi) and temporary multiplexing is executed in order to successively transmit the distinct power levels (Pi) to the assemblies (Gi) over a multiplexing period (Tmux). Demultiplexing is effected and each distinct electrical power level (Pi) is selectively delivered to the LED assembly (Gi) concerned.