Luminaire Controller Self-Testing via Light Output Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminaire testing methods, especially for complex controllers with multiple interfaces, are inadequate as they cannot fully verify the proper operation during installation, often requiring manual intervention and are not reliable.
Innovation Solution
A method where the controller automatically applies a light output control profile to test the luminaire system's operation, determining measures such as power consumption or light intensity, and enters a test mode to verify the second connection interface, providing automated and reliable testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual testing methods are used for simple controllers, then the testing can be performed with basic components, but the testing process is time-consuming and requires photosensors
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically performs self-testing by applying test signals to its own output and monitoring the responses through its input interfaces, eliminating the need for manual testing with photosensors and significantly reducing testing time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical testing procedures with automated electronic self-testing, where the controller uses its own circuitry to generate test signals and measure responses, substituting the need for external photosensors and manual operations
2Extent of automation
If integral self-test functions are provided in controllers, then testing can be performed independently, but proper operation cannot be fully tested for complex controllers with multiple connection interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal self-testing method that works for both simple and complex controllers with multiple connection interfaces by using standardized test signal applications and response measurements across all interfaces, ensuring complete and reliable testing regardless of controller complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The controller applies test signals to its outputs and measures the responses at its inputs, creating a feedback loop that verifies the proper operation of internal circuitry and connection interfaces, ensuring complete testing coverage for complex controllers
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection interfaces are added to the controller, then the controller functionality is enhanced, but the testing complexity increases and cannot be fully verified during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the testing process into standardized procedures for each connection interface type, allowing each interface to be tested independently through specific test signal applications and response measurements, thereby managing complexity while maintaining complete verification capability
Data Source
AI summary
A method for testing a luminaire system, and in particular for testing whether a controller (10) of the luminaire system has been correctly installed, said controller (10) being configured to control a light source, wherein, the controller is connected through a first connection interface (11; 11a, 11b) to a driver (20), the method comprising automatically controlling by the controller (10) the following step: a) applying a light output control profile for controlling a light output of the light source during a time period, and determining at least one measure representative for the light output of the light source during said time period.