Emergency Lighting Converter Log Access via Shared Interface Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current emergency lighting converters lack an efficient method for accessing log data stored in their non-volatile memory, requiring manual disassembly and additional connectors, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The emergency lighting converter device incorporates connecting means on its printed circuit board to allow external access to data input and output terminals, enabling data communication without additional connectors or housing modifications, using existing interfaces for dual functions like test switches and status indicators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual disassembly and additional connectors are used to access log data, then data accessibility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing interface connectors (test switch interface and status indicator light interface) serve dual functions: their original functions plus data communication function. The data input terminal connects to the data input terminal of the control circuit, and the data output terminal connects to the data output terminal, enabling log data reading through existing connectors without adding new ones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the data communication function with existing interface functions by integrating the data input terminal and data output terminal into the existing interface structure. This merging allows data reading capability to be embedded within the existing connector framework, eliminating the need for separate dedicated data access connectors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional connectors and housing modifications are made for data access, then data communication capability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Existing interface connectors are made multi-functional by adding data communication capability to their original functions (test switching and status indication). This allows the same physical connectors to handle both operational control and data retrieval, eliminating the need for additional dedicated data access connectors and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing interface structure serves itself by simultaneously handling its original function and providing data access capability. The connecting means utilize the already-present interface terminals to provide data input and output pathways, allowing the device to self-provide data communication functionality without requiring external additions.
3Ease of operation
If the housing is opened to access log data, then data reading is enabled, but operation time and convenience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The existing externally accessible interface connectors are made multi-functional to include data communication capability. This allows data reading to be performed through the same connectors used for test switching and status indication, enabling data access without housing disassembly and eliminating the time loss associated with manual opening and closing of the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
An emergency converter device for lighting applications provides a supply current to a load device such as a lighting module. The emergency converter device has a printed circuit board arranged within a housing. A control circuit such as a microcontroller and a non-volatile memory for storing log data are arranged on the printed circuit board. An interface is configured to connect mechanically and electrically at least one of a status indicator light a test switch or a duration link select switch. The interface has a first connecting element and a second connecting element. The emergency converter device has a connecting means for connecting a data output terminal (USART_TX) and a data input terminal (USART_RX) of the control circuit to the exterior of the housing.