Universal Voltage Detection for Solid State Lighting Fixtures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid state lighting fixtures, particularly LEDs, face inefficiencies due to input voltage dependency and compatibility issues with dimmers, leading to operational challenges and increased manufacturing complexities, as they require custom designs for different line voltages and can malfunction when used with phase chopping dimmers.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for detecting the phase angle of a dimmer and determining the appropriate voltage input for solid state lighting fixtures, using a processor with diodes and capacitors to sample digital pulses and identify the dimmer phase angle, allowing for universal voltage input and precise power setting adjustments based on detected phase angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solid state lighting fixtures are designed for specific line voltages, then they operate reliably at designated voltages, but manufacturers must maintain multiple inventory sets for different voltages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal voltage input capability in solid state lighting fixtures by detecting dimmer phase angles and automatically adjusting power converter settings. The fixture can now accept multiple voltage inputs (120VAC, 230VAC, 277VAC) without requiring separate inventory for each voltage type, while maintaining reliable operation through automatic voltage identification and adaptation.
2Ease of manufacture
If solid state lighting fixtures use fixed voltage designs, then manufacturing is simplified for each voltage type, but compatibility with different geographic locations and applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables voltage adaptability by detecting dimmer phase angle parameters and dynamically adjusting power converter settings based on the detected voltage type. The system automatically identifies whether it is connected to 120VAC, 230VAC, or 277VAC mains and configures its operation accordingly, allowing a single fixture design to serve multiple geographic locations and applications without modifying the physical hardware.
3Ease of operation
If conventional dimmers are used with solid state lighting, then dimming control is achieved, but phase chopping causes malfunction and operational issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the solid state lighting fixture detects the dimmer phase angle by sampling the input voltage waveform and measuring the phase shift. This detected phase angle information is fed back to the power converter controller, which adjusts its operation accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables the fixture to work reliably with phase chopping dimmers by adapting its switching frequency and duty cycle to match the dimmer's control scheme, preventing malfunction while maintaining dimming functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for detecting a dimmer phase angle set by operation of a dimmer for a solid state lighting load includes a processor having a digital input, a first diode connected between the digital input and a voltage source and a second diode connected between the digital input and ground. The device further includes a first capacitor connected between the digital input and a detection node, a second capacitor connected between the detection node and ground, and a resistance connected between the detection node and a rectified voltage node, which receives a rectified voltage from the dimmer. The processor is configured to sample digital pulses at the digital input based on the rectified voltage and to identify the dimmer phase angle based on lengths of the sampled digital pulses.