Modular Rail Lighting Control Using Master-Slave Signal Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems face challenges in achieving cost-effective controllability of luminous components due to the high cost of electrical and electronic components required for control functions.
Innovation Solution
A lighting arrangement with a modular design that includes a first lighting module equipped with control electronics to process and transmit control signals, allowing subsequent lighting modules to be powered and controlled without the need for expensive signal processing components, utilizing a master-slave configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If all lighting modules are equipped with control signal processing devices, then each module can be independently controlled, but the cost of the lighting system increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The first lighting module creates a control signal that is copied and transmitted to subsequent lighting modules through electrical conductors. Instead of each module having independent processing capabilities, the control signal from the first module is replicated and distributed to slave modules, enabling controllability while reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is divided into a master module (first lighting module) and slave modules (subsequent lighting modules). The master module contains the control signal processing device, while slave modules lack this device. This segmentation allows the system to achieve controllability through the master module while keeping slave modules cost-effective.
2Adaptability or versatility
If expensive electronic components are included in all lighting modules, then control functionality is enhanced, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control signal processing device is localized only in the first lighting module rather than being distributed to all modules. This local quality approach concentrates the expensive electronic components in one location while keeping other modules simpler and more cost-effective to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The first lighting module serves multiple functions: it acts as a normal lighting module itself and simultaneously functions as a control signal source for all subsequent modules. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate control devices in each module, reducing overall system cost while maintaining control functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design is implemented, then flexibility and ease of installation are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design merges the lighting function and control signal transmission function into a single integrated system. The electrical conductors that power the modules also transmit control signals, eliminating the need for separate control wiring and reducing system complexity despite the modular architecture.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a lighting arrangement (100) comprising a first lighting module (102) and at least one second lighting module (112), and a rail (109) designed for coupling and/or at least partially receiving the first lighting module and the at least one second lighting module. A conductor assembly (126) is provided along the rail for supplying electrical current and a control signal. The first lighting module (102) is configured to be coupled to the conductor assembly (126) in order to receive electrical current for supplying the first lighting module and the control signal from the conductor assembly. The first lighting module (102) is further configured to process the control signal, in particular to interpret it, and to control the first lighting module depending on the control signal.The first and at least one second light module (102, 112) are arranged to be coupled together in such a way that a signal for controlling the at least one second light module can be transmitted from the first light module to the at least one second light module.