Multicolor Signal Light Single Control Line Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multicolor signal lights for OEM machines are complex, costly to control and manufacture, and require multiple control signals, leading to increased production costs and inefficient use of color layers.
Innovation Solution
A multicolor signal light system controlled by a single control signal line, utilizing a processor to emit different colors and modes based on variable features of the control pulse, such as duty ratio, frequency, and amplitude, allowing for efficient and flexible information transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple control signals are used to control each color layer separately, then each color layer can be controlled independently, but the device complexity and control cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control signals into a single control signal line that carries composite control information. The control circuit receives this single control signal and internally generates the necessary control signals for different color layers (red, yellow, green LEDs) based on the control information embedded in the single signal, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single control signal line serves multiple functions: it carries control information for all color layers, transmits timing information, and enables various operating modes (steady light, flickering, rotating). The control circuit interprets the control signal to generate appropriate control signals for different LED groups, making the single line universally functional for controlling the entire multicolor signal light.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple control signals are used for each color layer, then precise control is achieved, but the manufacture cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control signal lines into one, reducing the number of external connections and simplifying the manufacturing process. The control circuit internally generates the necessary control signals for each color layer based on the single control signal received, eliminating the need for multiple external control lines and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit within the signal light automatically generates the necessary control signals for different color layers based on the single control signal received. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external circuits to generate multiple control signals, simplifying the overall system and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining precise control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If all color layers are available but only one operates at a time, then the structure remains complete, but the loss of substance increases due to wasted color layers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control where the control circuit can switch between different operating modes based on the control signal received. The system can operate with one color layer active at a time for normal indication, or activate multiple color layers simultaneously when needed for different message types. The LED groups can also rotate or flicker dynamically to convey different information, optimizing the use of available color layers.
4Device complexity
If a single control signal line is used, then the device complexity reduces, but the loss of information increases due to limited control capability
Solution Approach 1:
The control signal uses periodic variations in different parameters (amplitude, frequency, duty cycle) to encode multiple types of control information. By modulating these parameters periodically, the single control signal line can convey rich information about which color layers to activate, what operating mode to use (steady, flickering, rotating), and timing information, thereby compensating for the reduced number of physical signal lines.
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
The system simplifies the structure and reduces costs by using a single control signal line, enabling rich information expression while minimizing control and manufacturing costs, and allowing for convenient message indication to operators.
Implementation Method 1
the light capable of emitting multicolor lights is a LED light
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a multicolor signal light and a controlling method thereof. The multicolor signal light includes: a multicolor layer, comprising a plurality of lights being capable of lighting multicolor lights and arranged in a certain pattern; a single control signal line for receiving a control signal from a controller outside; a processor for controlling the multicolor layer to light in a different mode and in a different color according to the control signal received by the single control signal line; and power supply terminals for receiving power supply voltage from outside.