Splittable LED Light Strings with Demultiplexer Tree Topology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED light strings do not allow for splitting into multiple forks, limiting their configuration flexibility and routing options, especially in installations with a large number of LED light sources.
Innovation Solution
The development of splittable LED light strings with a demultiplexer and logic circuit that can receive serial input data, demultiplex it into multiple outputs, and connect multiple branches to a common controller, enabling a tree topology for more flexible configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single serial LED light string is used, then the structure is simple, but the routing flexibility and configuration options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single serial light string into multiple independent branches by introducing demultiplexer nodes that split the serial data stream into multiple parallel paths. Each branch can be independently routed and configured, transforming a linear structure into a tree topology that provides flexible routing options while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional serial chain to a multi-dimensional tree structure by adding branching capabilities at demultiplexer nodes. This dimensional expansion allows light sources to be accessed through multiple paths and configurations, significantly increasing routing flexibility without proportionally increasing system complexity
2Quantity of substance
If multiple LED light strings are connected in series, then more light sources can be controlled, but the routing arrangement becomes burdensome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces demultiplexer nodes as intermediary devices that receive a single serial data stream and distribute it to multiple branches. These intermediaries simplify the routing arrangement by automatically managing data distribution to numerous LED light sources across multiple branches, eliminating the need for complex manual wiring and configuration of each individual string
Solution Approach 2:
The demultiplexer nodes serve multiple functions simultaneously: they act as data distributors, branch connectors, and routing managers. This multi-functionality allows a single type of node to handle diverse routing requirements for large numbers of LED light sources, making the system easier to operate and configure regardless of the scale
3Adaptability or versatility
If LED light strings can be split into multiple forks, then configuration flexibility increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested tree topology where demultiplexer nodes are embedded within branches, allowing further subdivision of light sources into hierarchical groups. This nesting approach enables flexible configuration at multiple levels while maintaining a structured framework that prevents complexity from becoming unmanageable
Data Source
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AI summary
A lighting network (110) includes at least one lighting unit (120, 200, 300, 600, 700, 800, 900). The lighting unit includes: a serial data input (121) receiving serial input data including at least first lighting data; first and second demultiplexed serial data outputs (123, 125); one or more individually addressable light sources (222, 322); one or more lighting drivers (250, 460, 650) receiving the first lighting data and in response thereto driving the individually addressable light source(s) to emit light; and a demultiplexer (124, 224, 324, 624). The demultiplexer demultiplexes at least a portion of the serial input data into first and second serial output data, and supplies the first serial output data to the first demultiplexed serial data output to be output from the first lighting unit, and the second serial output data to the second demultiplexed serial data output to be output from the first lighting unit.