Programmable LED Driver via NFC for Universal Current Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Designing light devices with different LED modules requires varying driving current parameters, making it costly and inefficient to create separate drivers for each type, as different types of LED modules have distinct requirements.

Innovation Solution

A programmable light apparatus with a driver that can be programmed using an external signal, such as NFC, to adjust driving parameters, allowing the same driver to be used for multiple types of LED modules by converting the signal into a code that controls current or voltage adjustments, enabling configuration of color and color temperature settings even without an external power source.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If different drivers are designed for different types of LED modules to meet varying driving current parameters, then the LED modules can operate with their specific requirements, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveLED module operation reliabilityVSAvoiddriver variety
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal driver design that can accommodate different types of LED modules through programmable configuration. Instead of designing separate dedicated drivers for each LED module type, a single driver architecture is created that can be programmed via NFC signals to adjust its driving parameters. This multi-functional approach allows the same hardware platform to serve multiple purposes, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining reliable operation for various LED module specifications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate drivers are created for different LED module types, then each LED module receives appropriate driving parameters, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving parameter matchingVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs parameter changeability through programmable configuration stored in memory. The driver's operating parameters (such as driving current, voltage, and timing) are not fixed during manufacturing but can be dynamically adjusted via NFC programming after the device is assembled. This allows a single manufacturing line to produce universal drivers that can be configured for different LED module types without requiring separate driver production processes, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring proper parameter matching

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If a programmable driver with NFC capability is used for all LED modules, then device complexity and manufacturing cost are reduced, but the ease of operation and configuration may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriver design simplicityVSAvoidprogramming operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service configuration through NFC programming capability. The driver can be programmed directly at the point of use or during assembly without requiring complex external programming equipment or specialized technical knowledge. The NFC interface allows for simple tap-to-program operation, where configuration data can be transferred wirelessly and automatically configured, making the programming process as simple as a contactless payment transaction. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual configuration and reduces the operational burden on users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables cost-effective production and configuration of light devices, allowing for customization by users without the need for multiple drivers, while ensuring secure and authentic operation through encryption and authentication, and supporting future updates via firmware.

Implementation Method 1

The wireless circuit comprises a coil for converting the programming signal to generate an electricity to drive the wireless circuit, the processor circuit and the execution circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11330694B2Programmable light apparatus
Publication Date: 2022.05.10 XIAMEN ECO LIGHTING CO LTD
  • US11330694B2 patent drawing
  • US11330694B2 patent drawing
  • US11330694B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A programmable light apparatus includes a LED module and a driver. The driver has a current adjustable circuit that supports multiple types of LED modules. By sending a programming signal to a wireless circuit of the driver, the current adjustable circuit determines a correct setting to provide a necessary driving current to a corresponding LED module.