Solid State Lighting Apparatus AC Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid state lighting systems face challenges in providing LED-based lighting that mimics the color behavior and dimmability of incandescent bulbs, particularly in operating directly from an AC power source without flicker and requiring costly AC-DC power converters, while also being voltage configurable for multiple applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of solid state lighting apparatuses that operate directly from an AC power source, utilizing an array of solid state light emitters and independent driving components configured to activate and deactivate during the AC cycle, with rectifying circuits for improved dimming, thermal management, and voltage configurability, allowing for operation at various voltages without an on-board switched mode power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional AC-DC power converters are used to power LED lighting, then reliable operation is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the AC-DC power converter component from the LED lighting system, allowing the LEDs to operate directly from AC power sources. This elimination of the power converter reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining operational reliability through direct AC compatibility design
Solution Approach 2:
The LED lighting apparatus is designed to universally accept multiple voltage inputs (120V AC and 240V AC) without requiring different power converter configurations. This multi-functionality is achieved through voltage-detecting circuitry that automatically adapts the circuit configuration to the detected voltage level, eliminating the need for complex switching power supplies
2Use of energy by moving object
If LED chips are used for lighting, then energy efficiency is improved, but color rendering and dimmability comparable to incandescent bulbs deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the LED array into multiple independently controllable groups or strings of LEDs with different color temperatures. By selectively activating specific segments based on the desired brightness level, the system can dim while maintaining warm color temperatures (2700K-3000K) that approximate incandescent lighting characteristics, rather than simply reducing current to a single LED type
Solution Approach 2:
Different segments of the LED array are assigned different local qualities (color temperatures). Warm white LEDs (2700K-3000K) are positioned to be activated at lower brightness levels to provide incandescent-like color rendering, while cooler LEDs are activated at higher brightness levels for maximum energy efficiency and luminous output
3Device complexity
If LED lighting operates directly from AC power source, then device complexity is reduced, but perceptible flicker increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by utilizing the zero-crossing detection of the AC waveform to trigger LED activation at consistent intervals. The LEDs are switched on and off in synchronization with the AC cycle, creating a periodic operation pattern that reduces flicker perception compared to random or irregular switching patterns
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by keeping multiple LED strings active throughout the AC cycle rather than allowing complete shutdown during zero-crossings. The voltage-detecting circuitry ensures that at least some LEDs remain continuously illuminated, providing steady light output that minimizes perceptible flicker while still enabling direct AC operation
4Adaptability or versatility
If voltage configurable operation is implemented, then adaptability to different applications is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automatic voltage detection and self-configuration. The voltage-detecting circuitry automatically senses the input voltage level (120V or 240V AC) and autonomously reconfigures the LED string connections without requiring user intervention, switches, or complex manual wiring. This eliminates the complexity of user-configurable voltage selection while maintaining adaptability to different voltage applications
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
These systems achieve improved brightness, reduced perceptible flicker, and enhanced thermal management, making them more cost-effective and user-friendly for LED adoption by providing LED lighting that approximates incandescent characteristics across different voltage settings.
Implementation Method 1
Solid state emitters generate light through the recombination of electronic carriers (electrons and holes) in a light emitting layer or region of an LED chip
Implementation Method 2
with rectifying circuits for improved dimming, thermal management, and voltage configurability
Data Source
AI summary
Solid state lighting apparatuses, systems, and related methods are described. A solid state lighting apparatus includes an array of solid state light emitters arranged on or over the substrate and a plurality of driving components arranged on or over the substrate. The driving components are configured to independently activate and deactivate at least some of the solid state light emitters of the array of solid state light emitters during a portion of an alternating current (AC) cycle. A method of providing a solid state lighting apparatus includes providing a substrate, mounting an array of solid state light emitters on or over the substrate, and providing a plurality of driving components on or over the substrate. A solid state lighting system includes a solid state lighting apparatus having an array of solid state light emitters, driving components, and a rectifying circuit for rectifying current supplied to the driving components.