Lighting Device Timing Circuit Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Time-controlled lighting devices face malfunctions due to insufficient power supply from auxiliary sources during power outages, requiring a mechanism to synchronize the timing circuit effectively without continuous power.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that determine the power condition of the auxiliary power supply at each power cycle, store timing values when sufficient, and reset the timing circuit using stored values if power is insufficient, allowing for automatic synchronization of the timing circuit with the correct time and day, even during power outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-chargeable battery with sufficient capacity is used to power the timing circuit throughout the economic lifetime, then the timing circuit remains operational without replacement, but the battery size, cost, and self-leakage increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static battery capacity design to a dynamic system where the auxiliary power supply capacity is optimized for short-term operation, and synchronization is dynamically adjusted based on actual power availability. The timing circuit adapts its operation mode between autonomous timing during power outages and synchronization when power is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting device performs self-synchronization of the timing circuit using the main power supply when available, eliminating the need for external intervention or large battery capacity. The system automatically detects power availability and executes synchronization routines to maintain accurate timing without requiring excessive backup power capacity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a (re-)chargeable battery or capacitor is used to extend power life-time, then the timing circuit can span several days or weeks between power supply cycles, but the solution becomes insufficient during serious power outages exceeding this period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary synchronization of the timing circuit whenever main power is available, preparing the system in advance for potential extended outages. The timing circuit is continuously calibrated to the correct time before power failures occur, ensuring accurate timing even when the auxiliary power supply is depleted during prolonged outages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the power condition and auxiliary power supply status. Based on this feedback, the control circuit automatically adjusts the timing circuit operation mode, switching between autonomous timing and synchronization modes to maintain reliability regardless of outage duration.
3Reliability
If the timing circuit is continuously powered from the main power supply, then synchronization is maintained, but the lighting device cannot operate during power-off periods
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary power supply is designed to serve multiple functions: maintaining timing circuit operation during normal power-off cycles and enabling autonomous timing during extended outages. The system universally handles both short and long duration power interruptions using the same hardware configuration, eliminating the need for separate solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the timing circuit based on power availability. When main power is present, the timing circuit operates in synchronization mode with periodic updates. When power is lost, it transitions to autonomous timing mode using the auxiliary power supply, and finally to a synchronized recovery mode when power returns, dynamically adjusting its operation parameters to match conditions.
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
Ensures reliable operation of the timing circuit by synchronizing it to the correct time and day, reducing the need for frequent battery replacements and maintaining functionality during extended power outages, while being cost-effective and suitable for outdoor applications.
Implementation Method 1
a chargeable battery or a sufficiently large (super) capacitor may be used, for example, that keeps the timing circuit 'alive' in between power supply cycles
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A timing circuit (24), in particular a real time clock circuit, in a lighting device (10) that is periodically (17) powered from a main power supply (15) in accordance with a power supply cycle having a power-on time and a power-off time, is automatically synchronized in case the power condition of an auxiliary power supply (23) is insufficient to assume correct operation of the timing circuit (24). At each power-on of the power supply cycle, a power condition of the auxiliary power supply (23) is monitored. If the determined power condition exceeds a set power threshold, it is assumed that the momentary timing value of the timing circuit (24) is correct and this value is stored in a non-volatile memory (29), If the determined power condition gives rise to assuming malfunctioning of the timing circuit (24), for example due to absence of power for a longer time, the timing circuit (24) is synchronised to the stored timing value.