Off-Fixture LED Control Circuit Using Power Line Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
LED light fixtures often require integrated lighting control circuitry, limiting installation choices and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
The lighting control circuitry is separated from the fixture, allowing for modular LED light sources with a controller circuitry that receives AC voltage, decodes encoded lighting control information, and converts it to DC voltage, using power line communication for control signals, enabling flexible installation and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If lighting control circuitry is integrated into the fixture, then the system is more compact and easier to install as a complete unit, but installation flexibility and customization options are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into separate functional modules: a fixture containing LED light sources and a separate controller circuitry unit. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables flexible reconfiguration during installation without requiring pre-integrated control circuits in every fixture.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate controller circuitry is designed to work with multiple different fixture types through standardized communication protocols and power line interfaces. This universal controller can be applied to various LED fixture configurations, enhancing adaptability while maintaining ease of installation through consistent connection methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If lighting control circuitry is separated from the fixture, then installation flexibility and customization are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing AC power lines as an intermediary communication channel between the controller and fixtures. Power line communication (PLC) embeds control data within the power supply wires, eliminating the need for separate data cables and reducing overall system complexity despite the separated architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller circuitry automatically detects and configures connected fixtures through the power lines, performing self-identification and parameter matching without requiring manual configuration. This self-service capability reduces installation complexity by eliminating complex setup procedures while maintaining high flexibility.
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 separation allows for flexible installation and control of LED lighting systems, enhancing user customization and reducing installation constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The controller circuitry may include a power line communication ('PLC') module. The PLC module may modulate a voltage of the AC voltage to transmit the lighting control information. The PLC module may demodulate the modulated voltage to obtain the lighting control information.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, methods and systems for lighting control are provided. The apparatus may include a transceiver configured to receive lighting control information from a power source. The apparatus may include lighting control circuitry. The lighting control circuitry may receive a first voltage from the power source. The lighting control circuitry may convert the first voltage into a second voltage. The lighting control circuitry may obtain a light level from the lighting control information. The apparatus may include a connector. The connected may transmit the second voltage and a current corresponding to the light level to a light emitting diode (“LED”) light source. The transceiver, the lighting control circuitry, and the connector may be disposed in a housing. The LED light source may be disposed in a fixture. The lighting control circuitry may be structurally separate from and in electronic communication with the fixture.