EP1558063A1 - Method and device for controlling at least one illumination device - Google Patents

Method and device for controlling at least one illumination device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1558063A1
EP1558063A1 EP05000201A EP05000201A EP1558063A1 EP 1558063 A1 EP1558063 A1 EP 1558063A1 EP 05000201 A EP05000201 A EP 05000201A EP 05000201 A EP05000201 A EP 05000201A EP 1558063 A1 EP1558063 A1 EP 1558063A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
voltage
drive circuit
light
microcontroller
circuit according
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Application number
EP05000201A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Volker Zipf
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SMR Patents SARL
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Odelo GmbH
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Publication of EP1558063A1 publication Critical patent/EP1558063A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09G—ARRANGEMENTS OR CIRCUITS FOR CONTROL OF INDICATING DEVICES USING STATIC MEANS TO PRESENT VARIABLE INFORMATION
    • G09G3/00—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
    • G09G3/20—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters
    • G09G3/22—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters using controlled light sources
    • G09G3/30—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters using controlled light sources using electroluminescent panels
    • G09G3/32—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of an assembly of a number of characters, e.g. a page, by composing the assembly by combination of individual elements arranged in a matrix no fixed position being assigned to or needed to be assigned to the individual characters or partial characters using controlled light sources using electroluminescent panels semiconductive, e.g. using light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • H05B45/50—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09G—ARRANGEMENTS OR CIRCUITS FOR CONTROL OF INDICATING DEVICES USING STATIC MEANS TO PRESENT VARIABLE INFORMATION
    • G09G3/00—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
    • G09G3/04—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments using a combination of such display devices for composing words, rows or the like, in a frame with fixed character positions
    • G09G3/06—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments using a combination of such display devices for composing words, rows or the like, in a frame with fixed character positions using controlled light sources
    • G09G3/12—Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes for presentation of a single character by selection from a plurality of characters, or by composing the character by combination of individual elements, e.g. segments using a combination of such display devices for composing words, rows or the like, in a frame with fixed character positions using controlled light sources using electroluminescent elements
    • G09G3/14—Semiconductor devices, e.g. diodes
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • H05B45/10—Controlling the intensity of the light
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • H05B45/40—Details of LED load circuits
    • H05B45/44—Details of LED load circuits with an active control inside an LED matrix
    • H05B45/46—Details of LED load circuits with an active control inside an LED matrix having LEDs disposed in parallel lines
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
    • H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • H05B45/50—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits
    • H05B45/59—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits for reducing or suppressing flicker or glow effects

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for driving at least one Illuminant according to the preamble of claim 1 and a Drive circuit for performing such a method according to the preamble of claim 7.
  • the bulbs are increasingly using LEDs educated.
  • the problem is that due to the large potential operating voltages of the vehicle electrical system, which is usually between 9 and 16 volts, the lights are large power losses generate at high voltages. Be the lights at the typical nominal operating voltage of 13.5V Full brightness designed when using such lights in a 16 V electrical system much higher performance, because of the Vorwiderstandsauslegung the current increases disproportionately.
  • the in the Luminaire existing components, such as LEDs, resistors, plastic elements and the like come here to their load limits, as the temperature in the luminaire and on the printed circuit boards as a result of the disproportionate increase in electricity rises sharply.
  • the invention is based on the object, the generic method and to design the generic drive circuit in such a way that with a simple structural design a reliable operation is guaranteed.
  • the lighting means the preferably an LED is, when the predetermined Current / voltage value operated in pulse mode.
  • this is Increase in the input voltage compensated by the pulse operation.
  • an increase in the power loss is significantly reduced. Due to the pulsed operation, brightness fluctuations of the Excellent light bulbs. Remains the supply voltage of the light source below the current / voltage value occurs the operation without pulses, so that no brightness is lost.
  • the microcontroller has advantageous corresponding inputs and outputs.
  • There can be several Bulbs are combined to form a light box. It can in a single light several light fields may be present.
  • such light fields can be in a tail light a motor vehicle, the brake light, the tail light or the flashing light be. It is also possible for one light field each a light provided.
  • the distribution of bulbs on a single or on several lights can be designed arbitrarily. For these different Training is sufficient for a single microcontroller, with the various lamps in the manner described in the pulse mode can be switched.
  • the Light box 1 is an example with four series-connected bulbs 2 provided.
  • Fig. 1 is another example of a further light field. 3 shown, which also several series-connected in series Illuminant 4, preferably LEDs, has. In this way Further light fields can be provided, each in parallel connected to each other.
  • Fig. 2 is an example of a third Illuminated field 5 shown, which also lights in the form of LEDs having.
  • the LEDs form LED fields 1, 3, 5, each a light function fulfill.
  • the light fields 1, 3, 5 are connected to the on-board voltage of the motor vehicle provided.
  • the on-board voltage is usually between 9 and 16 volts.
  • the light fields 1, 3, 5 is a reverse polarity protection 6 (FIG. 1) upstream in the form of a blocking diode.
  • the exemplified Luminous fields can, for example, the brake light, the tail light, the flashing light or the rear fog lamp of the motor vehicle be.
  • Each light field receives a voltage signal 7 to 9.
  • Each Light field 1, 3, 5 is connected via a respective switch 10 to 12 to a Microcontroller 13 connected.
  • the switches 10 to 12 are advantageous Mosfets, to be described in the manner to the clocking or for the pulsed operation of the light sources 2, 4 of the light fields 1, 3, 5 be used.
  • the voltage signals 7 to 9 are connected via a respective diode D1, D2, Dn a voltage component 14 supplied to the input VDD of the microcontroller 13 is connected. Via the diodes D1, D2, Dn will be part of the voltage supply to the Microprocessor 13 decoupled.
  • the for each light field 1, 3, 5 desired light intensity is the microcontroller 13 at the inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n communicated as input signal.
  • the Inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n are each a resistor R3, R5, Rnn upstream.
  • a fixed set part of the input voltage U B is available for a measurement. With the resistors R1 and R2, the part of the input voltage can be set. Due to the voltage applied to the analog input 17 voltage signal, the brightness in each field can be compensated.
  • the voltage applied to the respective light field 1, 3, 5, is measured by means of the microcontroller 13. As soon as the voltage measured by the microcontroller 13 is above the nominal value, the microcontroller 13 controls the corresponding switch 10, 11, 12. The nominal value is advantageously somewhat below the vehicle electrical system voltage U B , so that sufficient control reserves are available for any load drops that may occur. As soon as the voltage is above the nominal value, the drive circuit switches to pulsed operation.
  • the microcontroller 13 calculates the pulse width on the basis of the input voltages applied to the inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n and supplies via the outputs Port 6 to Port 8 to the switches 10 to 12 corresponding signals.
  • the pulse width is variably adjusted according to the input voltage.
  • the switches 10 to 12 switch with very high frequencies, which are advantageously over 100 Hz. As a result, no stroboscopic effects occur, so that the LEDs 2, 4 do not flicker, so that no brightness fluctuations can be recognized despite pulse operation. In this way the loss increase is reduced.
  • Fig. 1 the described operation of the drive circuit is schematic shown. As long as noted during the voltage measurement is that the supply voltage of the light fields below the Nominal value, switches 10 to 12 remain closed. The LEDs 2, 4 are thus not operated pulsed, causing the LEDs give off their light with the optimal brightness. Only at tensions, which are above the nominal value, via the microcontroller 13 in switched the pulse operation by the switches 10 to 12 actuated become. The higher the supply voltage of the light fields 1, 3, 5 is, the shorter the pulses are.
  • the components of the drive circuit are advantageously located in the Lamp.
  • the voltage measurement could also be external to the outside Lamp done.
  • the corresponding voltage values can then be supplied via a bus to the microcontroller 13.
  • the voltage U F, diodes of 10 volts will result for four diodes. It is further assumed that the current I LED, setpoint is 60 mA.
  • I LED (U asked -U FDioden ) R nom
  • the actual current intensity I LED is 103 mA and a power loss P tot of 1.65 watts.
  • the light fields 1, 3, 5 are operated independently. Depending on the input signal, the microcontroller 13 generates for each Light field the corresponding pulse width for pulsed operation.
  • the light panels 1, 3, 5 can be provided in a single luminaire be. Such a lamp, for example, the tail light of a Be motor vehicle.
  • the light fields are then for example the Brake light, the tail light or the flashing light. But it can also be for in each case one light field a light be provided.
  • the distribution the bulbs 2, 4 on a single or multiple lights can be designed arbitrarily. Thus, each of the light fields 1, 3, 5 more or less than the exemplified four bulbs 2, 4 have.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
  • Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)

Abstract

The method is used to control at least one lamp, esp. an LED, of at least one light which is supplied with current/voltage. The lamp (2,4) is driven in a pulse drive mode is the voltage or current exceeds a given value. Preferably the lamp is driven with variable pulse width. More preferably, the pulse width is set depending on the current or voltage signals from the lamp. Independent claims also cover a control circuit for carrying out the method.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Ansteuern wenigstens eines Leuchtmittels nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruches 1 sowie eine Ansteuerschaltung zur Durchführung eines solchen Verfahrens nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruches 7.The invention relates to a method for driving at least one Illuminant according to the preamble of claim 1 and a Drive circuit for performing such a method according to the preamble of claim 7.

Bei Kraftfahrzeugen werden die Leuchtmittel zunehmend durch LEDs gebildet. Bei diesen Leuchten besteht das Problem, daß infolge der großen möglichen Betriebsspannungen des Bordnetzes, die üblicherweise zwischen 9 und 16 Volt liegen, die Leuchten große Verlustleistungen bei hohen Spannungen erzeugen. Werden die Leuchten bei der typischen nominalen Betriebsspannung von 13,5 V auf volle Helligkeit ausgelegt, entstehen bei Einsatz solcher Leuchten in einem 16 V-Bordnetz deutlich höhere Leistungen, da durch die Vorwiderstandsauslegung der Strom überproportional ansteigt. Die in der Leuchte vorhandenen Bauteile, wie LEDs, Widerstände, Kunststoffelemente und dergleichen, kommen hierbei an ihre Belastungsgrenzen, da die Temperatur in der Leuchte und auf den Leiterplatten infolge des überproportionalen Stromanstieges stark ansteigt. Bei den heutigen Packungsdichten der LEDs in den Leuchten müssen aus diesem Grunde Sicherheiten in die Gestaltung der Leuchten eingebaut werden. Dies führt zu einem hohen technischen Aufwand. Um ihn einigermaßen gering zu halten, wird aus diesem Grunde die Helligkeit der Leuchten bei Nominalspannung nicht voll ausgereizt. Es werden auch Kühlvorrichtungen verwendet, die aber wieder einen zusätzlichen konstruktiven Aufwand bedeuten.In motor vehicles, the bulbs are increasingly using LEDs educated. In these lights, the problem is that due to the large potential operating voltages of the vehicle electrical system, which is usually between 9 and 16 volts, the lights are large power losses generate at high voltages. Be the lights at the typical nominal operating voltage of 13.5V Full brightness designed when using such lights in a 16 V electrical system much higher performance, because of the Vorwiderstandsauslegung the current increases disproportionately. The in the Luminaire existing components, such as LEDs, resistors, plastic elements and the like, come here to their load limits, as the temperature in the luminaire and on the printed circuit boards as a result of the disproportionate increase in electricity rises sharply. Both Today's packing densities of the LEDs in the lights need to go out For this reason, safety in the design of the lights installed become. This leads to a high technical complexity. Around to keep it reasonably low, for this reason becomes the brightness the lights are not fully used at nominal voltage. It Coolers are used, but again an additional mean constructive effort.

Ein weiteres Problem besteht darin, daß die heutigen Kraftfahrzeugbordnetze immer instabiler werden. Dies ist auf die größer werdende Zahl an elektrischen Hilfssystemen mit großem Strombedarf im Kraftfahrzeug zurückzuführen. Solche elektrischen Hilfssysteme sind beispielsweise die elektrische Lenkung, die Fensterheber, eine Zusatzheizung und dergleichen. Es entstehen bei diesen Systemen häufig Spannungseinbrüche, insbesondere gerade bei schnell reagierenden LED-Leuchten. Diese Spannungseinbrüche äußern sich in deutlich sichtbaren Helligkeitsschwankungen.Another problem is that today's motor vehicle electrical systems becoming more and more unstable. This is on the bigger Number of electrical auxiliary systems with high power requirements in the motor vehicle due. Such auxiliary electrical systems are, for example the electric steering, the windows, an additional heater and the same. It often arises with these systems Voltage dips, especially in fast-reacting LED lights. These voltage drops manifest themselves clearly visible brightness fluctuations.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, das gattungsgemäße Verfahren und die gattungsgemäße Ansteuerschaltung so auszubilden, daß bei einfacher konstruktiver Auslegung ein zuverlässiger Betrieb gewährleistet ist.The invention is based on the object, the generic method and to design the generic drive circuit in such a way that with a simple structural design a reliable operation is guaranteed.

Diese Aufgabe wird beim gattungsgemäßen Verfahren erfindungsgemäß mit den kennzeichnenden Merkmalen des Anspruches 1 und bei der gattungsgemäßen Ansteuerschaltung erfindungsgemäß mit den kennzeichnenden Merkmalen des Anspruches 7 gelöst.This object is according to the invention in the generic method with the characterizing features of claim 1 and at the generic drive circuit according to the invention with the characterizing features of claim 7 solved.

Mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren wird das Leuchtmittel, das vorzugsweise eine LED ist, bei Überschreiten des vorgegebenen Strom/Spannungswertes im Pulsbetrieb betrieben. Wenn die Eingangsspannung über diesem vorgegebenen Wert liegt, wird dieser Anstieg der Eingangsspannung durch den Pulsbetrieb kompensiert. Dadurch wird ein Anstieg der Verlustleistung erheblich verringert. Aufgrund des Pulsbetriebes lassen sich Helligkeitsschwankungen des Leuchtmittels hervorragend ausregeln. Bleibt die Versorgungsspannung des Leuchtmittels unterhalb des Strom/Spannungswertes, erfolgt der Betrieb ohne Pulsen, so daß keine Helligkeit verloren geht. With the method according to the invention, the lighting means, the preferably an LED is, when the predetermined Current / voltage value operated in pulse mode. When the input voltage above this predetermined value, this is Increase in the input voltage compensated by the pulse operation. As a result, an increase in the power loss is significantly reduced. Due to the pulsed operation, brightness fluctuations of the Excellent light bulbs. Remains the supply voltage of the light source below the current / voltage value occurs the operation without pulses, so that no brightness is lost.

Erst bei Spannungen oberhalb des vorgegebenen Strom/Spannungswertes wird mit der erfindungsgemäßen Ansteuerschaltung in den Pulsbetrieb umgeschaltet.Only at voltages above the specified current / voltage value is with the drive circuit according to the invention in the Pulsed mode switched.

Zur Ansteuerung verschiedener Leuchtmittel weist der Mikrocontroller vorteilhaft entsprechende Ein- und Ausgänge auf. Es können mehrere Leuchtmittel zu einem Leuchtfeld zusammengefaßt werden. Es können in einer einzigen Leuchte mehrere Leuchtfelder vorhanden sein. So können solche Leuchtfelder beispielsweise in einer Rückleuchte eines Kraftfahrzeuges das Bremslicht, das Rücklicht oder das Blinklicht sein. Es ist auch möglich, für jeweils ein Leuchtfeld eine Leuchte vorzusehen. Die Verteilung der Leuchtmittel auf eine einzige oder auf mehrere Leuchten kann beliebig gestaltet sein. Für diese unterschiedlichen Ausbildungen reicht ein einziger Mikrocontroller aus, mit dem die verschiedenen Leuchtmittel in der beschriebenen Weise in den Pulsbetrieb umgeschaltet werden können.For controlling various lamps, the microcontroller has advantageous corresponding inputs and outputs. There can be several Bulbs are combined to form a light box. It can in a single light several light fields may be present. For example, such light fields can be in a tail light a motor vehicle, the brake light, the tail light or the flashing light be. It is also possible for one light field each a light provided. The distribution of bulbs on a single or on several lights can be designed arbitrarily. For these different Training is sufficient for a single microcontroller, with the various lamps in the manner described in the pulse mode can be switched.

Weitere Merkmale der Erfindung ergeben sich aus den weiteren Ansprüchen, der Beschreibung und der Zeichnung.Further features of the invention will become apparent from the further claims, the description and the drawing.

Die Erfindung wird anhand eines in den Zeichnungen dargestellten Ausführungsbeispieles näher erläutert. Es zeigen

Fig. 1
einen Prinzipschaltplan einer erfindungsgemäßen Ansteuerschaltung,
Fig. 2
ein Ausführungsbeispiel der erfindungsgemäßen Ansteuerschaltung.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawings. Show it
Fig. 1
a block diagram of a drive circuit according to the invention,
Fig. 2
An embodiment of the drive circuit according to the invention.

Mit der Ansteuerung werden Leuchtmittel einwandfrei angesteuert. Im dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel weist ein Leuchtfeld 1 mehrere in Reihe geschaltete Leuchtmittel 2 auf, die vorteilhaft LEDs sind. Das Leuchtfeld 1 ist beispielhaft mit vier in Reihe geschalteten Leuchtmitteln 2 versehen. In Fig. 1 ist beispielhaft ein weiteres Leuchtfeld 3 dargestellt, das ebenfalls mehrere in Reihe hintereinander geschaltete Leuchtmittel 4, vorzugsweise LEDs, aufweist. Auf diese Weise können weitere Leuchtfelder vorgesehen werden, die jeweils parallel zueinander geschaltet sind. In Fig. 2 ist beispielhaft noch ein drittes Leuchtfeld 5 dargestellt, das ebenfalls Leuchtmittel in Form von LEDs aufweist. Die LEDs bilden LED-Felder 1, 3, 5, die jeweils eine Lichtfunktion erfüllen.With the activation bulbs are properly controlled. in the illustrated embodiment, a luminous field 1 in several Series switched bulbs 2, which are advantageous LEDs. The Light box 1 is an example with four series-connected bulbs 2 provided. In Fig. 1 is another example of a further light field. 3 shown, which also several series-connected in series Illuminant 4, preferably LEDs, has. In this way Further light fields can be provided, each in parallel connected to each other. In Fig. 2 is an example of a third Illuminated field 5 shown, which also lights in the form of LEDs having. The LEDs form LED fields 1, 3, 5, each a light function fulfill.

Die Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 werden mit der Bordspannung des Kraftfahrzeuges versorgt. Die Bordspannung liegt üblicherweise zwischen 9 und 16 Volt. Den Leuchtfeldern 1, 3, 5 ist ein Verpolschutz 6 (Fig. 1) in Form einer Sperrdiode vorgeschaltet. Die beispielhaft dargestellten Leuchtfelder können beispielsweise das Bremslicht, das Schlußlicht, das Blinklicht oder auch die Nebelschlußleuchte des Kraftfahrzeuges sein. Jedes Leuchtfeld erhält ein Spannungssignal 7 bis 9. Jedes Leuchtfeld 1, 3, 5 ist über jeweils einen Schalter 10 bis 12 an einen Mikrocontroller 13 angeschlossen. Die Schalter 10 bis 12 sind vorteilhaft Mosfets, die in noch zu beschreibender Weise zur Taktung bzw. für den Pulsbetrieb der Leuchtmittel 2, 4 der Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 eingesetzt werden.The light fields 1, 3, 5 are connected to the on-board voltage of the motor vehicle provided. The on-board voltage is usually between 9 and 16 volts. The light fields 1, 3, 5 is a reverse polarity protection 6 (FIG. 1) upstream in the form of a blocking diode. The exemplified Luminous fields can, for example, the brake light, the tail light, the flashing light or the rear fog lamp of the motor vehicle be. Each light field receives a voltage signal 7 to 9. Each Light field 1, 3, 5 is connected via a respective switch 10 to 12 to a Microcontroller 13 connected. The switches 10 to 12 are advantageous Mosfets, to be described in the manner to the clocking or for the pulsed operation of the light sources 2, 4 of the light fields 1, 3, 5 be used.

Die Spannungssignale 7 bis 9 werden über jeweils eine Diode D1, D2, Dn einem Spannungsbaustein 14 zugeführt, der an den Eingang VDD des Mikrocontrollers 13 angeschlossen ist. Über die Dioden D1, D2, Dn wird ein Teil der Spannung zur Spannungsversorgung des Mikroprozessors 13 ausgekoppelt. Die für das jeweilige Leuchtfeld 1, 3, 5 gewünschte Lichtstärke wird dem Mikrocontroller 13 an den Eingängen Input 1, Input 2, Input n als Eingangssignal mitgeteilt. Den Eingängen Input 1, Input 2, Input n ist jeweils ein Widerstand R3, R5, Rnn vorgeschaltet. The voltage signals 7 to 9 are connected via a respective diode D1, D2, Dn a voltage component 14 supplied to the input VDD of the microcontroller 13 is connected. Via the diodes D1, D2, Dn will be part of the voltage supply to the Microprocessor 13 decoupled. The for each light field 1, 3, 5 desired light intensity is the microcontroller 13 at the inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n communicated as input signal. The Inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n are each a resistor R3, R5, Rnn upstream.

Über die an den Eingängen Input 1, Input 2, Input n anliegenden Eingangssignale werden dem Mikrocontroller 13 die gewünschten Lichtanforderungswerte für das jeweilige Leuchtfeld 1, 3, 5 mitgeteilt.Via the input signals present at the inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n become the microcontroller 13, the desired light request values for the respective illuminated field 1, 3, 5 communicated.

Am Analogeingang 17 des Mikrocontrollers 13 steht ein fest eingestellter Teil der Eingangsspannung UB für eine Messung zur Verfügung. Mit den Widerständen R1 und R2 kann der Teil der Eingangsspannung festgelegt werden. Aufgrund des am Analogeingang 17 anliegenden Spannungssignales kann die Helligkeit im jeweiligen Leuchtfeld jeweils kompensiert werden.At the analog input 17 of the microcontroller 13, a fixed set part of the input voltage U B is available for a measurement. With the resistors R1 and R2, the part of the input voltage can be set. Due to the voltage applied to the analog input 17 voltage signal, the brightness in each field can be compensated.

Aufgrund der an den Eingängen Input 1, Input 2, Input n am Mikrocontroller 13 anliegenden Eingangssignale erzeugt der Mikrocontroller an den Ausgängen Port 6, Port 7, Port 8 Spannungssignale, mit denen die Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 in der gewünschten Weise aktiviert werden.Due to the inputs 1, input 2, input n on the microcontroller 13 applied input signals generated by the microcontroller at the outputs port 6, port 7, port 8 voltage signals, with which activates the light fields 1, 3, 5 in the desired manner become.

Die Spannung, die am jeweiligen Leuchtfeld 1, 3, 5 anliegt, wird mittels des Mikrocontrollers 13 gemessen. Sobald die vom Mikrocontroller 13 gemessene Spannung über dem Nominalwert liegt, steuert der Mikrocontroller 13 den entsprechenden Schalter 10, 11, 12 an. Der Nominalwert liegt vorteilhaft etwas unterhalb der Bordnetzspannung UB, damit bei eventuell auftretenden Lasteinbrüchen ausreichende Regelreserven zur Verfügung stehen. Sobald die Spannung über dem Nominalwert liegt, schaltet die Ansteuerschaltung in den Pulsbetrieb. Der Mikrocontroller 13 berechnet aufgrund der an den Eingängen Input 1, Input 2, Input n anliegenden Eingangsspannungen die Pulsbreite und liefert über die Ausgänge Port 6 bis Port 8 an die Schalter 10 bis 12 entsprechende Signale. Die Pulsbreite wird variabel je nach der Eingangsspannung eingestellt. Die Schalter 10 bis 12 schalten mit sehr hohen Frequenzen, die vorteilhaft über 100 Hz liegen. Dadurch treten keine Stroboskopeffekte auf, so daß die LEDs 2, 4 nicht flackern, so daß keine Helligkeitsschwankungen trotz Pulsbetrieb zu erkennen sind. Auf diese Weise wird der Verlustanstieg verringert.The voltage applied to the respective light field 1, 3, 5, is measured by means of the microcontroller 13. As soon as the voltage measured by the microcontroller 13 is above the nominal value, the microcontroller 13 controls the corresponding switch 10, 11, 12. The nominal value is advantageously somewhat below the vehicle electrical system voltage U B , so that sufficient control reserves are available for any load drops that may occur. As soon as the voltage is above the nominal value, the drive circuit switches to pulsed operation. The microcontroller 13 calculates the pulse width on the basis of the input voltages applied to the inputs Input 1, Input 2, Input n and supplies via the outputs Port 6 to Port 8 to the switches 10 to 12 corresponding signals. The pulse width is variably adjusted according to the input voltage. The switches 10 to 12 switch with very high frequencies, which are advantageously over 100 Hz. As a result, no stroboscopic effects occur, so that the LEDs 2, 4 do not flicker, so that no brightness fluctuations can be recognized despite pulse operation. In this way the loss increase is reduced.

In Fig. 1 ist der beschriebene Betrieb der Ansteuerschaltung schematisch dargestellt. Solange bei der Spannungsmessung festgestellt wird, daß die Versorgungsspannung der Leuchtfelder unterhalb des Nominalwertes liegt, bleiben die Schalter 10 bis 12 geschlossen. Die LEDs 2, 4 werden somit nicht gepulst betrieben, wodurch die LEDs mit der optimalen Helligkeit ihr Licht abgeben. Erst bei Spannungen, die über dem Nominalwert liegen, wird über den Mikrocontroller 13 in den Pulsbetrieb geschaltet, indem die Schalter 10 bis 12 betätigt werden. Je höher die Versorgungsspannung der Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 ist, desto kürzer sind die Pulse.In Fig. 1, the described operation of the drive circuit is schematic shown. As long as noted during the voltage measurement is that the supply voltage of the light fields below the Nominal value, switches 10 to 12 remain closed. The LEDs 2, 4 are thus not operated pulsed, causing the LEDs give off their light with the optimal brightness. Only at tensions, which are above the nominal value, via the microcontroller 13 in switched the pulse operation by the switches 10 to 12 actuated become. The higher the supply voltage of the light fields 1, 3, 5 is, the shorter the pulses are.

Die Komponenten der Ansteuerschaltung sitzen vorteilhaft in der Leuchte. Die Spannungsmessung könnte auch extern außerhalb der Leuchte erfolgen. Die entsprechenden Spannungswerte können dann über einen Bus dem Mikrocontroller 13 zugeführt werden.The components of the drive circuit are advantageously located in the Lamp. The voltage measurement could also be external to the outside Lamp done. The corresponding voltage values can then be supplied via a bus to the microcontroller 13.

Mit der beschriebenen Ansteuerschaltung kann der Anstieg der Verlustleistung bei den oberen Spannungsgrenzen erheblich verringert werden, ohne daß hierzu ein großer Aufwand betrieben werden muß.With the described drive circuit, the increase in power loss significantly reduced at the upper voltage limits be, without this, a great effort must be operated.

Wird beispielsweise das Leuchtfeld 1 auf eine Nominalspannung von 13,5 Volt dimensioniert, ergibt sich hieraus eine Verlustleistung von Ptot = Ubat, nom •ILED, Soll If, for example, the luminous field 1 is dimensioned to a nominal voltage of 13.5 volts, this results in a power loss of P dead = U asked, nom • I LED, target

Der Vorwiderstand R (Fig. 1) berechnet sich zu Rnom = (Ubat,nom -UF,Dioden)ILED,Soll The series resistor R (Fig. 1) is calculated to R nom = (U asked nom -U F, diodes ) I LED, setpoint

Wird die Nominalspannung mit 13,5 Volt und die Spannung der Dioden jeweils mit 2,5 Volt angegeben, ergibt sich bei vier Dioden die Spannung UF, Dioden von 10 Volt. Weiter wird angenommen, daß die Stromstärke ILED, Soll 60 mA beträgt.If the nominal voltage is given as 13.5 volts and the voltage of the diodes as 2.5 volts, the voltage U F, diodes of 10 volts will result for four diodes. It is further assumed that the current I LED, setpoint is 60 mA.

Aus den obigen Beziehungen ergibt sich daraus ein Vorwiderstand von 58 Ohm sowie eine Verlustleistung Ptot von 0,81 Watt.From the above relationships, this results in a series resistor of 58 ohms and a power loss P tot of 0.81 watts.

Wird die Leuchte nunmehr bei 16 Volt ungepulst betrieben, dann ergibt sich die Verlustleistung aus Ptot = Ubat •ILED, Ist If the lamp is now operated at 16 volts unpulsed, then the power loss results P dead = U asked • I LED, is

Hierbei läßt sich die Iststromstärke wie folgt berechnen: ILED, Ist = (Ubat -UFDioden)Rnom Here, the actual current can be calculated as follows: I LED, is = (U asked -U FDioden ) R nom

Wird die nominale Batteriespannung Ubat, nom mit 16 Volt, die Diodenspannung mit 2,5 Volt und der Vorwiderstand mit 58 Ohm angenommen, dann ergibt sich die Iststromstärke ILED, Ist zu 103 mA und eine Verlustleistung Ptot von 1,65 Watt.If the nominal battery voltage U bat, nom with 16 volts, the diode voltage with 2.5 volts and the series resistor with 58 ohms assumed, then the actual current intensity I LED, is 103 mA and a power loss P tot of 1.65 watts.

Dies zeigt, daß die Verlustleistung bei den oberen Spannungsgrenzen, im Beispielsfalle bei 16 Volt, um mehr als das Doppelte angestiegen ist im Vergleich zu einer Nominalspannung von 13,5 Volt.This shows that the power loss at the upper voltage limits, in the example case at 16 volts, more than doubled is compared to a nominal voltage of 13.5 volts.

Wird die Leuchte hingegen mit der beschriebenen Ansteuerschaltung bei 16 Volt gepulst betrieben, dann ist die Verlustleistung Ptot wesentlich geringer. Im Beispielsfall wird angenommen, daß das Verhältnis von ILED und der Helligkeit proportional ist, beispielsweise indem die doppelte Stromstärke einer doppelten Helligkeit entspricht. Das Tastverhältnis ergibt sich zu D = Ubat,nom - UF,Dioden Ubat,Ist - UF,dioden If, on the other hand, the lamp is operated in a pulsed manner at 16 volts with the drive circuit described, then the power loss P tot is considerably lower. In the example case it is assumed that the ratio of I LED and the brightness is proportional, for example by the double current corresponds to a double brightness. The duty cycle results too D = U asked nom - U F, diodes U batiste - U F, diode

Das Pulsen beginnt also bei Spannungen, die über der Nominalspannung liegen. Die Verlustleistung berechnet sich zu Ptot = Ubat • ILED, Ist • D The pulses therefore start at voltages that are above the nominal voltage. The power loss is calculated too P dead = U asked • I LED, is • D

Hierbei berechnet sich die Iststromstärke der LEDs zu ILED, Ist = (Ubat -UF,Dioden)Rnom In this case, the actual current intensity of the LEDs is calculated I LED, is = (U asked -U F, diodes ) R nom

Für die Nominalbatteriespannung Ubat, nom wird 16 Volt, für die Diodenspannung UF, Dioden 2,5 Volt und für den Vorwiderstand R 58 Ohm angenommen. Bei einem angenommenen Tastverhältnis von D = 0,58 ergibt sich aufgrund der obigen Beziehungen eine Verlustleistung Ptot von nur 0,955 Watt. Die Verringerung der Verlustleistung durch den Pulsbetrieb beträgt somit 0,955 Watt : 1,65 Watt = 42 %.For the nominal battery voltage U bat, nom is assumed to be 16 volts, for the diode voltage U F, diodes 2.5 volts and for the series resistor R 58 ohms. With an assumed duty cycle of D = 0.58, a power loss P tot of only 0.955 watts results from the above relationships. The reduction of the power loss by the pulse operation is thus 0.955 watts: 1.65 watts = 42%.

Durch den Einsatz der Ansteuerschaltung wird im Pulsbetrieb der effektive Strom etwa konstant gehalten, so daß das jeweilige Leuchtfeld im Pulsbetrieb immer gleich hell erscheint.Through the use of the drive circuit is in pulsed operation of the effective Current kept approximately constant, so that the respective light field always bright in pulse mode.

Die Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 werden unabhängig voneinander betrieben. Je nach Eingangssignal erzeugt der Mikrocontroller 13 für jedes Leuchtfeld die entsprechende Pulsbreite für den gepulsten Betrieb. Die Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 können in einer einzigen Leuchte vorgesehen sein. Eine solche Leuchte kann beispielsweise die Heckleuchte eines Kraftfahrzeuges sein. Die Leuchtfelder sind dann beispielsweise das Bremslicht, das Rücklicht oder das Blinklicht. Es kann aber auch für jeweils ein Leuchtfeld eine Leuchte vorgesehen sein. Die Verteilung der Leuchtmittel 2, 4 auf eine einzige oder auf mehrere Leuchten kann beliebig gestaltet sein. So kann jedes der Leuchtfelder 1, 3, 5 mehr oder weniger als die beispielhaft dargestellten vier Leuchtmittel 2, 4 aufweisen.The light fields 1, 3, 5 are operated independently. Depending on the input signal, the microcontroller 13 generates for each Light field the corresponding pulse width for pulsed operation. The light panels 1, 3, 5 can be provided in a single luminaire be. Such a lamp, for example, the tail light of a Be motor vehicle. The light fields are then for example the Brake light, the tail light or the flashing light. But it can also be for in each case one light field a light be provided. The distribution the bulbs 2, 4 on a single or multiple lights can be designed arbitrarily. Thus, each of the light fields 1, 3, 5 more or less than the exemplified four bulbs 2, 4 have.

Claims (16)

Verfahren zum Ansteuern wenigstens eines Leuchtmittels, vorzugsweise einer LED, mindestens einer Leuchte, bei dem das Leuchtmittel mit Strom/Spannung versorgt wird,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Leuchtmittel (2, 4) bei Überschreiten eines bestimmten Strom/Spannungswertes im Pulsbetrieb betrieben wird.Method for controlling at least one luminous means, preferably an LED, at least one luminaire, in which the luminous means is supplied with current / voltage,
characterized in that the lighting means (2, 4) is operated when pulsing a certain current / voltage value is exceeded. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Leuchtmittel (2, 4) mit variabler Pulsbreite betrieben wird.Method according to claim 1,
characterized in that the lighting means (2, 4) is operated with a variable pulse width. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1 oder 2,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Pulsbreite in Abhängigkeit von dem Leuchtmittel (2, 4) zugeführten Strom/Spannungssignalen eingestellt wird.Method according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that the pulse width in response to the lighting means (2, 4) supplied current / voltage signals is set. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß bei Unterschreiten des bestimmten Strom/Spannungswertes auf Normalbetrieb ohne Taktung umgeschaltet wird.Method according to one of claims 1 to 3,
characterized in that is switched when falling below the determined current / voltage value to normal operation without clocking. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der bestimmte Strom/Spannungswert unterhalb der Betriebsspannung liegt.Method according to one of claims 1 to 4,
characterized in that the determined current / voltage value is below the operating voltage. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Pulsfrequenz oberhalb von etwa 100 Hz liegt.Method according to one of claims 1 to 5,
characterized in that the pulse frequency is above about 100 Hz. Ansteuerschaltung zur Durchführung des Verfahrens nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ansteuerschaltung wenigstens einen Mikrocontroller (13) hat, dem ein Teil des dem Leuchtmittel (2, 4) zugeführten Storm/Spannungssignales zugeführt wird und der mindestens einen Ausgang (Port 6, Port 7, ...) aufweist, an den das Leuchtmittel (2, 4) unter Zwischenschaltung eines Schalters (10 bis 12) angeschlossen ist.Drive circuit for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 6,
characterized in that the drive circuit has at least one microcontroller (13) to which a part of the light-emitting means (2, 4) supplied Storm / voltage signal is supplied and the at least one output (port 6, port 7, ...), to the lighting means (2, 4) with the interposition of a switch (10 to 12) is connected. Ansteuerschaltung nach Anspruch 7,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß an einem Eingang (17) des Mikrocontrollers (13) ein Teil der Betriebsspannung (UB) anliegt.Drive circuit according to claim 7,
characterized in that at an input (17) of the microcontroller (13) a part of the operating voltage (U B ) is present. Ansteuerschaltung nach Anspruch 7 oder 8,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß den Eingängen (17, Input 1, Input 2, ... Input n) des Mikrocontrollers (13) Widerstände (R1, R2, ... Rnn) vorgeschaltet sind.Drive circuit according to Claim 7 or 8, characterized
characterized in that the inputs (17, Input 1, Input 2, ... Input n) of the microcontroller (13) resistors (R1, R2, ... Rnn) are connected upstream. Ansteuerschaltung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 9,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Versorgungsspannung des Mikrocontrollers (13) über wenigstens eine Diode (D1, D2, ... Dn) zugeführt wird.Drive circuit according to one of claims 7 to 9,
characterized in that the supply voltage of the microcontroller (13) via at least one diode (D1, D2, ... Dn) is supplied. Ansteuerschaltung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 10,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß der Schalter (10 bis 12) ein Mosfet ist.Drive circuit according to one of claims 7 to 10,
characterized in that the switch (10 to 12) is a mosfet. Ansteuerschaltung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 11,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß mehrere Leuchtmittel (2, 4) zu einem Leuchtfeld (1, 3, 5) zusammengefaßt sind. Drive circuit according to one of claims 7 to 11,
characterized in that a plurality of lighting means (2, 4) to a light field (1, 3, 5) are combined. Ansteuerschaltung nach Anspruch 12,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß im Leuchtfeld (1, 3, 5) die Leuchtmittel (2, 4) in Reihe liegen.Drive circuit according to claim 12,
characterized in that in the light field (1, 3, 5), the lighting means (2, 4) are in series. Ansteuerschaltung nach einem der Ansprüche 7 bis 13,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß mehrere Leuchtfelder (1, 3, 5) an den Mikrocontroller (13) angeschlossen sind.Drive circuit according to one of claims 7 to 13,
characterized in that a plurality of light fields (1, 3, 5) are connected to the microcontroller (13). Ansteuerschaltung nach Anspruch 14,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß mehrere Leuchtfelder (1, 3, 5) in einer Leuchte vorgesehen sind.Drive circuit according to claim 14,
characterized in that a plurality of light fields (1, 3, 5) are provided in a light. Ansteuerschaltung nach Anspruch 14,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß je Leuchtfeld (1, 3, 5) eine Leuchte vorgesehen ist.Drive circuit according to claim 14,
characterized in that each luminous field (1, 3, 5) is provided a lamp.
EP05000201A 2004-01-26 2005-01-07 Method and device for controlling at least one illumination device Withdrawn EP1558063A1 (en)

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