LED Retrofit Fixture with AC-DC Converter Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluorescent light fixtures face limitations such as high operating voltages, high power consumption, short life expectancy, and poor light quality, and replacing them with LEDs is hindered by the difference in power requirements between fluorescent lamps and LEDs, necessitating costly and complex modifications to the lighting fixture.
Innovation Solution
A fluorescent light fixture assembly that includes a ballast and a novel lighting element with a converter module that converts AC current to DC current, allowing the existing ballast to power an LED array, enabling a cost-effective retrofit by utilizing the existing ballast and providing a constant current source to the LEDs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fluorescent lamps are replaced with LED lighting elements, then light quality and longevity are improved, but the operating voltage and power supply requirements create incompatibility with existing ballasts
Solution Approach 1:
A converter module is introduced as an intermediary component between the existing ballast and the LED array. This converter module contains a rectifier circuit that converts AC current to DC current, and a constant current circuit that regulates the DC current to match LED requirements, enabling compatibility between the AC-powered ballast and DC-powered LEDs
2Illumination intensity
If fluorescent lamps are replaced with LED lighting elements, then light quality is improved, but additional power supply components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The converter module merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: the rectifier circuit (AC to DC conversion) and the constant current circuit (current regulation) are combined within the same module that replaces the fluorescent lamp, simplifying the overall system architecture
3Use of energy by stationary object
If conventional fluorescent fixtures are used, then high voltage AC power supply is maintained, but power consumption is high and light quality is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The converter module changes the electrical parameters from high voltage AC (maintained by the ballast) to low voltage DC with constant current regulation, optimizing the power delivery for LED operation and improving both energy efficiency and light quality
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 allows for a cost-effective retrofit of existing fluorescent fixtures with LEDs, improving light quality and longevity while reducing operational costs and complexity, as the converter module effectively converts AC power from the existing ballast to DC power for the LED array, ensuring reliable and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
the converter module provides a constant current source to power the LED array
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a fluorescent light fixture assembly including a ballast and a novel lighting element that includes an array of LEDs and at least one converter module that enables the existing ballast providing an AC power input to supply DC power to the LED array. The lighting element includes a body that contains the LED array and the converter modules and shares the configuration of the lighting element that is to be retrofitted. The lighting element receives power from the pre-existing ballast, wherein the converter module provides a constant current source to power the LED array. Thus, the lighting element, including the converter module, replaces the conventional fluorescent light tube in a cost-effective retrofit manner with the existing ballast.