Multi-Channel LED Current Control With Shared Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional current sensing methods for multiple LED channels require individual circuits for each channel, increasing hardware costs and CPU throttling, and managing complex lighting scenarios for defect inspection is challenging.
Innovation Solution
A single current sensing circuit and LED control model selection multiplexor (MUX) for multiple LED channels, allowing switching between real-time closed-loop and open-loop control, with a controller that manages lighting sequences and AI-based defect analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual current sensing circuits are implemented for each LED channel, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and hardware cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple LED channel control into a single integrated circuit architecture. The controller manages multiple LED channels through shared resources including a single current sensing circuit that is time-multiplexed across channels, common memory structures, and unified control logic, thereby reducing hardware complexity while maintaining measurement precision through sequential sampling and digital signal processing
Solution Approach 2:
The current sensing circuit is designed as a universal component that can measure current across multiple LED channels by switching between them. The controller implements multi-functional capabilities by using the same sensing circuit for different channels at different times, and by implementing both closed-loop and open-loop control modes within a single controller architecture
2Manufacturing precision
If real-time feedback control is implemented for every LED channel, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to CPU throttling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic sampling of LED channel currents instead of continuous real-time monitoring. The controller sequentially samples each channel at specific intervals, processes the data in batches, and updates control parameters periodically. This approach maintains sufficient control precision for manufacturing while reducing CPU load and improving overall system productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary calibration and characterization of LED channels during idle periods or before production runs. Lookup tables and correction factors are pre-computed and stored in memory, allowing the system to operate in a faster open-loop mode during actual production while maintaining precision through pre-established parameters
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different combinations of light channels are executed, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of LED channels through software-configurable parameters. The controller can dynamically adjust which channels are active, their intensity levels, and their timing sequences based on inspection requirements. This software-based dynamic reconfiguration provides versatility without adding hardware complexity, as the same physical hardware can be reprogrammed for different lighting scenarios
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
Reduces hardware costs and CPU load while enabling flexible lighting control and efficient defect identification in high-speed imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
A single current sensing circuit and LED control model selection multiplexor (MUX) for multiple LED channels, allowing switching between real-time closed-loop and open-loop control
Implementation Method 2
a lighting apparatus having multiple light sources may be provided
Implementation Method 3
a specially designed controller is required to provide accurate current control over each LED channel
Data Source
AI summary
In an example embodiment, the controller is designed with a single current sensing circuit that is able to measure the current on multiple LED channels, eliminating the need for each LED channel to have its own current sensing circuit. The current sensing circuit may further be utilized with a control unit, which has an LED control model selection multiplexor (MUX) that switches between real-time closed-loop control and open-loop control.