Single Power Converter Circuit for Multi-Level Lighting Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multiple level lighting systems require two power converters and switches, which are not as economical as a system with a single power converter, and lack the ability to efficiently operate at multiple lighting levels with reduced power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A multiple level lighting system utilizing a single power converter with a lighting system converter circuit and switch control circuit, which varies voltage by adjusting impedance in series with lamps to achieve full, first reduced, and second reduced light levels based on switch states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single power converter is used, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but the ability to operate at multiple lighting levels is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the impedance value adjustable rather than fixed. The impedance circuit includes a switching network that can dynamically change the impedance value based on control signals from the switch control circuit, enabling the single power converter to adapt to different lighting levels (full, first reduced, second reduced) as required by different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the impedance parameter to control lighting levels. By varying the impedance value in the impedance circuit according to the state of power switches, the system achieves different voltage levels across the lamps, thereby providing multiple lighting levels from a single power converter without requiring additional converters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two power converters are used, then multiple lighting levels are achieved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate power converters into a single power converter. The single power converter integrates both full light mode and reduced light mode operations by incorporating an impedance circuit that can be activated based on switch states, eliminating the need for duplicate converter hardware while maintaining multiple lighting level capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single power converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in full light mode when both switches are closed, and in reduced light modes when one or both switches are open. The impedance circuit enables the same power converter to handle different operational requirements, making it a universal solution that replaces what would traditionally require two dedicated converters.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If impedance is varied to control lighting levels, then power consumption is reduced, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an impedance circuit as an intermediary component between the power converter and the lamps. This impedance circuit acts as a mediator that controls the voltage delivered to the lamps by varying its impedance value, thereby reducing power consumption during reduced light modes without requiring complex power conversion circuitry. The switching network within the impedance circuit provides a relatively simple mechanism for impedance variation.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system converter circuit of a lamp power converter to selectively operate a plurality of lamps connected thereto is provided. The lighting system converter circuit includes a first impedance circuit and a second impedance circuit. Each impedance circuit includes an input terminal, an impedance component, and a switching network. The impedance components are each configured to connect in series with the lamps. Each input terminal is configured to receive a control signal that indicates a state of a switch. Each control signal has a first logic level, indicating the switch is non-conductive, and a second logic level, indicating the switch is conductive. Each switching network is connected to its respective input terminal and in parallel with its respective impedance component, and is configured to selectively operate between a conductive state and a non-conductive state, as a function of the logic level of its respective control signal.