Automotive Lighting Converter Assembly for Efficient Current Derating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive lighting devices face challenges in maintaining optimal performance due to overheating issues, which are addressed by current derating methods that oversize light sources, leading to inefficient operation and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
An electronic assembly with a plurality of converters that can be selectively connected or disconnected to provide variable current values to driver channels, allowing operation closer to the optimal efficiency point, thereby reducing energy consumption and temperature rise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If derating method is used to control temperature, then temperature is reduced, but light source performance must be heavily oversized leading to inefficient operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the converter configuration adjustable and reconfigurable based on operating conditions. The system dynamically switches between different converter connection states (series/parallel arrangements) to adapt the current output to match the optimal operation point of the driver channel, thereby maintaining high efficiency across varying temperature and current conditions rather than using a fixed derating approach
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (current values) by reconfiguring the converter connections. By switching between different converter arrangements, the system provides different current values to the driver channel, allowing operation at the optimal efficiency point rather than relying on fixed derating, thus resolving the contradiction between temperature control and efficiency
2Power
If driver channel is designed for maximum intensity, then maximum output is achieved, but operation point is very far from optimal efficiency point
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures converter connections based on the required current level. When maximum output is needed, converters are arranged to provide high current; when lower current is sufficient, converters are reconfigured to maintain operation near the optimal efficiency point. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to achieve maximum power when necessary while maintaining high efficiency during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the converter system into multiple independent converters that can be individually connected or disconnected. This segmentation allows flexible reconfiguration of the total current output by selectively engaging different numbers of converters, enabling the driver channel to operate at or near its optimal efficiency point across a range of power requirements while still capable of delivering maximum output when all converters are engaged
3Productivity
If multiple converters are selectively connected or disconnected, then different current values are provided to operate closer to optimal efficiency point, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple converters into a unified driver channel system where the converters work together as an integrated unit. The converters share common control logic and are designed with standardized interfaces, allowing them to be selectively combined in series or parallel configurations. This merging approach manages complexity by providing a systematic method for reconfiguration rather than requiring entirely separate control systems for each converter
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 improves the efficiency of solid-state light sources in automotive lighting devices by minimizing the gap between optimal operation and actual output, reducing energy consumption and slowing down temperature rise, especially during prolonged vehicle use.
Implementation Method 1
The term 'solid state' refers to light emitted by solid-state electroluminescence, which uses semiconductors to convert electricity into light
Implementation Method 2
The converters may be DC/DC type converters, for example, converters of the step-down type, also called Buck converters
Implementation Method 3
Compared to incandescent lighting, solid state lighting creates visible light with reduced heat generation and less energy dissipation
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides an electronic assembly for an automotive lighting device. the electronic assembly comprising a plurality of converters (8, 9, 10, 11, 12), at least one driver channel (5, 6, 7) being electrically fed by at least one converter (8, 9, 10, 11, 12) and a plurality of solid-state light sources (2, 3, 4). at least one solid-state light source receiving current and control from each driver channel (5, 6, 7). At least one of the converters (8, 9, 10, 11, 12) is arranged for selectively being connected or disconnected to provide different current values to at least one of the driver channels (5, 6, 7).