Lighting Device Voltage Adaptation via Semiconductor Group Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting devices struggle to operate semiconductor light sources efficiently across a wide range of supply voltages, often resulting in insufficient current intensity or excessive power loss, especially in motor vehicle applications where voltage can vary significantly.
Innovation Solution
The lighting device employs switching means to divide semiconductor light sources into groups that can be connected in parallel or series based on the available supply voltage, using a control unit and detector to automatically adjust the configuration, and incorporates a low-drop series regulator and temperature-dependent resistors to manage power and prevent overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If semiconductor light sources are connected in series to operate all light sources, then the total light output is maximized, but the device requires high supply voltage and cannot operate when supply voltage is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the semiconductor light sources into multiple groups (first group and second group) that can be independently connected in series or parallel. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different supply voltage conditions by selectively activating appropriate groups, resolving the contradiction between maximizing light output and adapting to varying supply voltages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between different circuit configurations (series/parallel connections of different groups) based on the available supply voltage. The operating apparatus dynamically reconfigures the light source groups to maintain optimal operation across varying voltage conditions, thereby achieving both high illumination when voltage permits and adaptability when voltage varies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If semiconductor light sources are divided into groups and operated alternatively, then the device can adapt to low supply voltage, but the total light output is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting light sources into multiple groups that can be independently controlled, the system can activate all groups when supply voltage is sufficient to maintain total light output, while switching to selective group activation when voltage is low, thus adapting without permanently sacrificing illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate all light sources in series for maximum output, switch to parallel configurations for low voltage adaptation, and selectively activate groups based on conditions. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the system capable of both high output and voltage adaptation.
3Illumination intensity
If all semiconductor light sources are operated simultaneously, then the total light output is maximized, but power loss increases and thermal overload risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing light sources into separable groups allows the system to activate only the necessary number of groups based on supply voltage and thermal conditions. When operating all groups would cause excessive power loss or heating, the system can selectively deactivate certain groups, thereby reducing energy loss and thermal load while maintaining sufficient illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can operate with a partial set of light sources (only necessary groups) when full operation would cause excessive power loss or thermal issues. This partial action approach maintains adequate illumination while avoiding the harmful effects of operating all sources simultaneously under unfavorable conditions.
4Device complexity
If semiconductor light sources are operated with fixed connection, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to varying supply voltage conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces switching elements and control apparatus that segment the circuit into reconfigurable groups. While this adds some complexity, it enables the system to adapt to varying supply voltages by selectively connecting groups in series or parallel, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and voltage adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed connection structure to a dynamic reconfigurable structure where groups can be switched between series and parallel connections based on supply voltage conditions. This dynamic capability provides the necessary adaptability while keeping the added complexity manageable through systematic design.
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 ensures consistent operation of semiconductor light sources across varying supply voltages, minimizing power loss and preventing damage from thermal overload, while maintaining good electromagnetic compatibility and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
incorporates a low-drop series regulator and temperature-dependent resistors to manage power and prevent overheating
Implementation Method 2
incorporates a low-drop series regulator and temperature-dependent resistors to manage power and prevent overheating
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, a lighting device may include a plurality of semiconductor light sources, and an apparatus configured to operate the semiconductor light sources. The apparatus has switching means, by which the semiconductor light sources can be divided in groups for operation with the apparatus.