Electronically Controlled Phase Selector Switch for Lighting Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply arrangements for track or continuous-row lamps require manual intervention for phase selection and load balancing, making it difficult to achieve uniform loading of phases, especially in large lighting systems where load asymmetry can occur due to lamp replacements or phase failures.
Innovation Solution
An electronically controllable phase selector switch is integrated into the power supply arrangement, allowing for automatic phase selection and load balancing without manual intervention, using an electronic control unit and digital interface for data communication, which can be remotely controlled or operate autonomously to distribute load evenly across phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual phase selection is used in connectors, then phase selection capability is provided, but manual intervention effort increases and automation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical phase selection (rotary switches, manual connectors) with an electronically controlled phase selector switch. The control unit automatically actuates the phase selector switch based on load balance considerations, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining phase selection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit monitors the load distribution across phases and autonomously determines which phase should be selected for the operating device. The system serves itself by automatically adjusting the phase connection without external manual input, achieving self-balancing of the three-phase load.
2Reliability
If conventional manual phase selection devices are used, then phase selection is possible, but load balancing cannot be automatically maintained when load changes or phases fail
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the operational status and load consumption of the operating device, as well as the status of available phase conductors. Based on this feedback, the control unit dynamically adjusts the phase selection to maintain optimal load balance, automatically responding to load changes or phase failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The phase selection is made dynamic rather than static. The phase selector switch can be electronically reconfigured at any time based on current system conditions. The system adapts its phase connection in real-time to changing load conditions or phase availability, ensuring continuous optimal load distribution.
3Productivity
If manual intervention is required for phase selection, then simple device structure is maintained, but time consumption for operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is pre-programmed with the logic for optimal phase selection and load balancing. When the system is activated, the control unit immediately begins monitoring and automatically configures the phase connection without requiring any manual setup or intervention, significantly reducing configuration time.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a luminaire (110), a control gear, and a power supply arrangement (100) for a luminaire (110), which includes a connector (122) for connection to a multi-phase supply line (120) and a phase selection device. The phase selection device allows the control gear (114) to be selectively connected to a specific phase conductor (L1, L2, L3) of the supply line. According to the invention, the phase selection device is designed as an electronically controllable phase selector switch (130) and has a control input (132) which is controlled by an electronic control unit (140) or by the control gear, thus allowing the selection of the phase conductor intended for the single-phase supply of the control gear. Furthermore, a method for automatic phase selection in a lighting system with corresponding luminaires is proposed.