EP0252438B1 - Ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps - Google Patents

Ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0252438B1
EP0252438B1 EP87109527A EP87109527A EP0252438B1 EP 0252438 B1 EP0252438 B1 EP 0252438B1 EP 87109527 A EP87109527 A EP 87109527A EP 87109527 A EP87109527 A EP 87109527A EP 0252438 B1 EP0252438 B1 EP 0252438B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ignition
pressure discharge
voltage
discharge lamp
locking
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
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EP87109527A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0252438A1 (en
Inventor
Heinz-Dieter Lingner
Horst Bunke
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Norka Norddeutsche Kunststoff und Elektrogesellschaft Staecker mbH and Co KG
Original Assignee
Norka Norddeutsche Kunststoff und Elektrogesellschaft Staecker mbH and Co KG
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Priority to AT87109527T priority Critical patent/ATE62783T1/en
Publication of EP0252438A1 publication Critical patent/EP0252438A1/en
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    • 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
    • H05B41/00—Circuit arrangements or apparatus for igniting or operating discharge lamps
    • H05B41/02—Details
    • H05B41/04—Starting switches
    • H05B41/042—Starting switches using semiconductor devices

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps with a spark gap, which is connected in parallel to an ignition capacitor arrangement and feeds the primary winding of an ignition transformer, via the secondary winding behind which a ballast supply lines are connected to the high-pressure discharge lamp, the arrangement comprising a spark gap and an ignition capacitor having an alternating voltage via a High-voltage transformer is supplied, to the primary winding of which is connected an ignition termination switch which switches off the AC voltage from the primary winding and which can be controlled as a function of a signal determined by the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp, a locking circuit having a timing element being provided which, when the high-pressure discharge lamp is not ignited, has a predetermined value Adjusted speed and after a predetermined time, switching off the AC voltage from the primary
  • the coil of the high-voltage transformer causes (locking) if the high-pressure discharge lamp has not been ignited and the signal indicating the burning of the high-pressure discharge lamp controls the ignition termination switch without delay.
  • Such an ignition device is known from DE-AS 11 92 741 and DE-AS 29 38 529 and is on the market as a device from BAG.
  • the phase of an AC voltage supply is connected behind a ballast to the series connection of a first secondary winding of a Tesla transformer, the high-pressure discharge lamp and the second secondary winding of the Tesla transformer.
  • the free end of the second secondary winding of the Tesla transformer is connected to the neutral conductor of the voltage supply.
  • the primary winding of a high-voltage transformer is connected to the mains voltage via break contacts of two relays.
  • An ignition capacitor and a spark gap are connected to the secondary winding of the high-voltage transformer. The ignition capacitor is charged during each half-wave until the discharge voltage of the spark gap is reached.
  • the spark gap is in series with the primary winding of the Tesla transformer, so that in the case of the multiple discharges of the spark gap, one ignition pulse is transmitted to the high-pressure discharge lamp via the Tesla transformer.
  • These generated ignition pulses of 30 to 70 kV are regularly able to ignite a high-pressure discharge lamp even when it is hot.
  • the high-pressure discharge lamp is operated with the mains voltage, which is fed to the high-pressure discharge lamp via the secondary winding of the Tesla transformer.
  • an interruption in the supply of the alternating voltage to the primary winding of the high-voltage transformer takes place in that a temperature-dependent resistor heats up and thereby causes one of the relays to be pulled, as a result of which the relay interrupts the voltage supply to the primary winding.
  • the high-pressure discharge lamp ignites, a voltage drops across the ballast, as a result of which current is supplied to a second relay via an NTC resistor. If the resistance value of the NTC resistor has become small enough, the relay picks up and stops itself, so that through this relay the voltage supply to the primary winding of the High voltage transformer interrupted, ie the ignition is stopped.
  • the delay caused by the NTC in switching off the ignition attempts after the lamp has been ignited serves to bridge the time in which the high-pressure discharge lamp can go out again shortly after the first ignition.
  • the spark gaps therefore ignite many times, even though the high-pressure discharge lamp is already burning and may be burning stably.
  • the spark gap as a wearing part of the igniter is therefore subject to a high degree of unnecessary stress.
  • a similar igniter is known from DE-A-2 730 447.
  • This ignition device is switched off both in unsuccessful ignition attempts and when the lamp is ignited by means of timers, which in this case are formed by RC combinations.
  • timers which in this case are formed by RC combinations.
  • the high-pressure discharge lamp should be parallel to the switching relays in order to short-circuit the switching relays through the ignited lamp, the exemplary embodiment shown does not show this measure. It would also not be expedient because it would cause the high-pressure discharge lamp to switch on and off constantly in a pulsating manner.
  • the corresponding timer for switching off the ignition circuit after a defined delay time after the ignition of the high-pressure discharge lamp serves to ensure stable burning of the high-pressure discharge lamp.
  • a large number of sparks are produced by the spark gap, which are no longer necessary if the lamp burns stably after only a few attempts to ignite.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a starting device of the type mentioned that reacts quickly to the operating conditions that occur when the high-pressure discharge lamp is ignited and avoids unnecessary stress on the spark gap.
  • the locking circuit which is adjustable between an initial state and a locking state, can be adjusted by its timer when the high-pressure discharge lamp is ignited at a much lower speed in the direction of the initial state than in the direction of the locking state in the event of unsuccessful ignition attempts, and that the locking circuit adjusts from the instantaneous value in the direction of the locking state when the ignition is attempted again .
  • the mode of operation of the ignition device according to the invention is based on the fact that the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp directly controls the ignition termination switch, so that the ignition is ended immediately when the high-pressure discharge lamp is on.
  • the danger of constant flickering of the high-pressure discharge lamp, which is switched off in the known ignition devices by the delay circuit and which goes out again immediately after it is ignited, is switched off according to the invention in that the locking circuit can be reset electronically, the resetting being carried out much more slowly than the adjustment in the direction of the locking. If the high-pressure discharge lamp ignites and then immediately goes out again, the locking circuit is reset only slightly, so that the ignition attempts which then occur again result in an adjustment in the direction of locking.
  • a further adjustment device which effects the adjustment of the locking circuit in the direction of the initial state with a very low time constant when the mains voltage collapses.
  • the mean half-wave amplitude on the supply line is used as the signal determined by the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp and a level detection circuit is connected to the supply line.
  • a level detection circuit is connected to the supply line.
  • This expediently has an integration stage which brings about a second-order delay.
  • the mains voltage present on the supply line is deformed by the ignited high-pressure discharge lamp behind the ballast in such a way that an approximate square-wave voltage with a reduced level is established. Since the square wave voltage is provided with overshoot peaks, it is expedient to provide the level detection circuit with the integration stage, which eliminates the overshoot peaks due to the second-order delay and clearly recognizes and evaluates the reduced voltage level.
  • the locking circuit is formed by a storage capacitor arrangement, which is charged by the output signal of the detector circuit when the high-pressure discharge lamp is not ignited, the charge level of the storage capacitor arrangement controlling a switching stage which activates the ignition termination switch.
  • the storage capacitor arrangement forms the timing element with a resistor. If a discharge path is provided for the storage capacitor arrangement, which causes the storage capacitor arrangement to be discharged with a multiple discharge time, for example five to ten times the discharge time, the desired gradual locking is realized, with the momentary extinction of which ignited high-pressure discharge lamp, the storage capacitor arrangement may also have a residual charge and therefore only requires a residual charge up to the charge level activating the ignition termination switch.
  • the storage capacitor arrangement is connected to a terminal of the DC voltage supply, which does not carry the reference potential against which the storage capacitor arrangement is charged, in order to implement the sudden resetting of the locking circuit via a low-resistance discharge path, which is preferably formed by a diode.
  • a low-resistance discharge path which is preferably formed by a diode.
  • the drawing shows a circuit diagram of an embodiment of an ignition device according to the invention.
  • a normal AC line voltage is present between two supply lines L1, N.
  • the primary winding of a network transformer NT is connected to the two supply lines L1, N via a fuse Si1 and a switch S.
  • Parallel to this is a series ballast VG, usually formed by a choke, a second fuse Si2, a first part of the secondary winding of a Tesla transformer TT, the discharge path of a high-pressure discharge lamp L and the second part of the secondary winding of the Tesla transformer TT.
  • the series connection of a spark gap F and the secondary winding of a high-voltage transformer HT are connected to the two ends of the primary winding of the Tesla transformer.
  • Parallel to the secondary winding of the high-voltage transformer HT is an ignition capacitor arrangement made up of three capacitors C9, C10, C11 connected in series, each of which has a resistor R20, R22, R23 connected in parallel.
  • the secondary winding of the mains transformer NT feeds a full-wave rectifier bridge G1, the rectified output signal of which is smoothed by smoothing capacitors C1, C2 connected to the neutral conductor N and connected in parallel with one another.
  • the DC voltage smoothed in this way serves as a supply voltage for a first operational amplifier OV1, a second operational amplifier OV2 and a switching transistor TR2 and the associated wiring networks.
  • the detection circuit consists of a diode D1 to which a filter network consisting of two integrating RC elements R1, C3 and R2, C4 connected in series is connected to the neutral conductor N. Between the connection point of the resistor R2 and the capacitor C4, a trimming potentiometer TRP is connected to the neutral conductor. The tap of the trim potentiometer TRP is connected via a resistor R4 to the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1. A reference voltage is present at the inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1, which is generated from the DC supply voltage with the aid of a voltage divider formed by a resistor R3 and a Zener diode ZD1.
  • the voltage drop across the Zener diode ZD1 is fed via a resistor R5 to the inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1.
  • a feedback branch with a resistor R6 is located between the output of the operational amplifier OV1 and its non-inverting input.
  • the output of the operational amplifier OV1 is connected via a resistor R12 to the base of the transistor TR2, the collector of which is connected to the positive DC supply voltage, so that the transistor TR2 is connected as an emitter follower. With the emitter, two voltage dividers from the resistors R14, R15 and R18, R19 are connected in parallel to each other against the neutral conductor N.
  • the tap of the first voltage divider R14, R15 is connected to the control electrode of a triac TRI1 and the tap of the second voltage divider R18, R19 is connected to the control electrode of a second triac TRI2.
  • Parallel to the first triac TRI1 is the parallel connection of a fixed resistor R17 and a voltage-dependent resistor VDR1
  • parallel to the second triac TRI2 is a second voltage-dependent resistor VDR2, all components being connected on one side to the neutral conductor N.
  • the other connection of the first triac TRI1 is connected via a resistor R16 to an auxiliary ignition capacitor C7, which is connected to line D.
  • the other terminal of the second Triacs TRI2 is connected via the primary winding of the high-voltage transformer HT to the connection point between the switch S and the primary coil of the mains transformer NT.
  • the output of the first operational amplifier OV1 is connected on the one hand via a resistor R7 to the positive DC supply voltage and via the series connection of a diode D2 and a resistor R8 to a parallel connection of two storage capacitors C5, C6, the other plates of which are connected to the neutral conductor N.
  • the positive plates of the two storage capacitors C5, C6 are connected to the non-inverting input of the second operational amplifier OV2.
  • This is connected via a resistor R9 to the neutral conductor N and a diode D3 polarized in the reverse direction to the positive DC supply voltage.
  • the output of the second operational amplifier OV2 is directly fed back to the inverting input, so that the operational amplifier OV2 acts as a voltage follower.
  • the output is also connected via a resistor R10 to the positive DC supply voltage and via a resistor R11 to the anode of a Zener diode ZD2, the cathode of which is at the base of a switching transistor TR1.
  • the base of the switching transistor TR1 is connected to the neutral conductor N via a resistor R13.
  • the emitter of the switching transistor TR1 is connected directly to the neutral conductor N, while its collector is connected to the cathode of a diode D4, the anode of which lies at the base of the transistor TR2.
  • the signal level prevailing on the supply line D leading to the phase is detected by the detector circuit in that the positive half-wave reaches the integration network R1, C3, R2, C4 via the diode D1, so that two different levels on the non- inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1 depending of whether the high-pressure discharge lamp L has ignited or not.
  • the level at the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1 exceeds the reference level at the inverting input set by the Zener diode ZD1, so that a high voltage level is present at the output of the operational amplifier OV1, which is present at the base of the transistor TR2, so that it becomes a leader.
  • the two triacs TRI1 and TRI2 are switched on via the voltage dividers R14, R15 and R18, R19. Switching on the second triac TRI2 causes the mains voltage to be applied to the supply lines L1, N to the primary coil of the high-voltage transformer HT.
  • the ignition capacitor arrangement C9, C10, C11 is charged several times during a half-wave and discharged each time the ignition voltage of the spark gap F is reached.
  • the current pulses generated by the spark gap F are transformed into a very high voltage on the secondary side of the Tesla transformer TT via the Tesla transformer TT and serve to ignite the high-pressure discharge lamp L.
  • the auxiliary ignition capacitor C7 is activated via the first triac TRI1.
  • the positive potential at the output of the operational amplifier OV1 leads to a charging of the storage capacitors C5, C6 until after a predetermined time they reach the threshold value specified by the Zener diode ZD2 and the transistor TR1.
  • the transistor TR1 becomes conductive and the base of the transistor TR2 opens Zero potential drawn.
  • the transistor TR2 is thereby blocked and in turn blocks the two triacs TRI1 and TRI2, whereby the ignition process is ended.
  • the duration of the ignition process is determined by the timing element formed by the storage capacitors C5, C6 and the resistor R8 and by the threshold value set with the Zener diode ZD2 and the transistor TR1.
  • the storage capacitors C5, C6 remain charged, so that the entire circuit is locked and no further ignition can be carried out. A new ignition is only possible after the supply voltage on the supply lines L1, N has been switched off and the storage capacitors C5, C6 have been able to discharge via the diode D3. This ensures that if the ignition is unsuccessful, the circuit itself cannot attempt the ignition again.
  • the level at the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1 falls below the level of the reference voltage at the inverting input.
  • the output signal of the operational amplifier OV1 suddenly becomes zero, as a result of which the transistor TR2 blocks and the triacs TRI1 and TRI2 are likewise blocked, so that the ignition process is terminated.
  • the circuit thus switches off the ignition generator within a few half-waves of the mains voltage when the high-pressure discharge lamp L has ignited. In this way, unnecessary further ignition pulses are effectively prevented.
  • the storage capacitors C5, C6 can discharge via the resistor R9 and are therefore returned to their initial state.
  • the storage capacitors C5, C6 may be only partially discharged before the output signal of the operational amplifier OV1 switches back to a positive level. The remaining charge of the storage capacitors C5, C6 is then recharged, if necessary until the threshold value of ZD2 and TR1 is reached. The ignition generator is active during this time. It can be clearly seen that the effective time of the ignition generator in this case is shorter than at the start of the ignition attempt, since the charging time of the storage capacitors C5, C6 has been shortened until the threshold voltage has been reached due to their residual charge. If the lamp ignites several times and then goes out again immediately afterwards, this cycle can only take place a few times until the storage capacitors C5, C6 lock the circuit and prevent further ignition attempts which would lead to an excessive load on the spark gap F.
  • the storage capacitor arrangement C5, C6 can suddenly discharge via the diode D3, as a result of which a desired sudden resetting of the locking circuit is realized in the event of a mains voltage breakdown.
  • the ignitor according to the invention therefore allows optimum use of the service life of the spark gap F and reliably prevents a longer flickering condition of the high-pressure discharge lamp L.

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  • Circuit Arrangements For Discharge Lamps (AREA)

Abstract

A starter for high-pressure discharge lamps (L) with a spark gap (F) which is connected parallel to a starter capacitor arrangement (C9, C10, C11) and supplies the primary winding of a starter transformer (TT) via whose secondary winding supply lines (D, N) are connected to the high-pressure discharge lamp (L), an AC voltage being supplied via a high-voltage transformer (HT) to the arrangement of the spark gap (F) and starter capacitors (C9, C10, C11), to the primary winding of which high-voltage transformer there is connected an electronic starter termination switch (TR12) which disconnects the AC voltage from the primary winding, permits optimum control of the starting attempts in various operating modes when a detector circuit (D1,R1,C3, R2,C4,TRP, ZD1,OV1) for the operating mode of the high- pressure discharge lamp (L) is connected to the supply lines (D, N), and controls the starter termination switch (TR12). <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Zündgerät für Hochdruckentladungslampen mit einer Funkenstrecke, die parallel zu einer Zündkondensatoranordnung geschaltet ist und die Primärwicklung eines Zündtransformators speist, über dessen Sekundärwicklung hinter einem Vorschaltgerät liegende Versorgungsleitungen an die Hochdruckentladungslampe angeschlossen sind, wobei der Anordnung aus Funkenstrecke und Zündkondensator eine Wechselspannung über einen Hochspannungstransformator zugeführt wird, an dessen Primärwicklung ein die Wechselspannung von der Primärwicklung abschaltender Zündbeendigungsschalter angeschlossen ist, der in Abhängigkeit von einem vom Betriebszustand der Hochdruckentladungslampe bestimmten Signal steuerbar ist, wobei eine Verriegelungsschaltung mit einem Zeitglied vorgesehen ist, das sich bei nicht gezündeter Hochdruckentladungslampe mit einer vorbestimmten Geschwindigkeit verstellt und nach einer vorbestimmten Zeit ein Abschalten der Wechselspannung von der Primärspule des Hochspannungstransformators bewirkt (Verriegelung), wenn keine Zündung der Hochdruckentladungslampe erfolgt ist und wobei das das Brennen der Hochdruckentladungslampe anzeigende Signal den Zündbeendigungsschalter verzögerungsfrei steuert.The invention relates to an ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps with a spark gap, which is connected in parallel to an ignition capacitor arrangement and feeds the primary winding of an ignition transformer, via the secondary winding behind which a ballast supply lines are connected to the high-pressure discharge lamp, the arrangement comprising a spark gap and an ignition capacitor having an alternating voltage via a High-voltage transformer is supplied, to the primary winding of which is connected an ignition termination switch which switches off the AC voltage from the primary winding and which can be controlled as a function of a signal determined by the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp, a locking circuit having a timing element being provided which, when the high-pressure discharge lamp is not ignited, has a predetermined value Adjusted speed and after a predetermined time, switching off the AC voltage from the primary The coil of the high-voltage transformer causes (locking) if the high-pressure discharge lamp has not been ignited and the signal indicating the burning of the high-pressure discharge lamp controls the ignition termination switch without delay.

Ein derartiges Zündgerät ist durch die DE-AS 11 92 741 und DE-AS 29 38 529 bekannt und befindet sich als Gerät der Firma BAG im Markt. Hinter einem Vorschaltgerät ist die Phase einer Wechselspannungsversorgung mit der Serienschaltung einer ersten Sekundärwicklung eines Tesla-Transformators, der Hochdruckentladungslampe und der zweiten Sekundärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators verbunden. Das freie Ende der zweiten Sekundärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators ist an dem Nulleiter der Spannungsversorgung angeschlossen. Über Ruhekontakte zweier Relais liegt die Primärwicklung eines Hochspannungstransformators an der Netzspannung an. An die Sekundärwicklung des Hochspannungstransformators ist ein Zündkondensator sowie eine Funkenstrecke angeschlossen. Während jeder Halbwelle wird der Zündkondensator aufgeladen, bis die Entladungsspannung der Funkenstrecke erreicht ist. Die Funkenstrecke liegt in Serie mit der Primärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators, so daß bei den mehreren Entladungen der Funkenstrecke pro Halbwelle jeweils ein Zündimpuls über den Tesla-Transformator auf die Hochdruckentladungslampe übertragen wird. Diese erzeugten Zündimpulse von 30 bis 70 kV sind regelmäßig in der Lage, eine Hochdruckentladungslampe auch im heißen Zustand wieder zu zünden. Nach der Zündung wird die Hochdruckentladungslampe mit der Netzspannung betrieben, die der Hochdruckentladungslampe über die Senkundärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators zugeführt wird. Bei vergeblichen Zündversuchen findet eine Unterbrechung der Zuführung der Wechselspannung zu der Primärwicklung des Hochspannungstransformators dadurch statt, daß sich ein temperaturabhängiger Widerstand erhitzt und dadurch das Anziehen eines der Relais bewirkt, wodurch dieses selbsthaltend die Spannungszufuhr zur Primärwicklung unterbricht. Zündet hingegen die Hochdruckentlandungslampe, fällt über dem Vorschaltgerät eine Spannung ab, wodurch einem zweiten Relais über einen NTC-Widerstand Strom zugeführt wird. Wenn der Widerstandswert des NTC-Widerstand klein genug geworden ist, zieht das Relais an und hält sich selbst, so daß durch dieses Relais die Spannungszuführung zur Primärwicklung des Hochspannungstransformators unterbrochen, d. h. die Zündung beendet wird. Die durch den NTC verursachte Verzögerung des Abschaltens der Zündversuche nach dem Zünden der Lampe dient dazu, die Zeit zu überbrücken, in der die Hochdruckentladungslampe kurz nach dem ersten Zünden wieder verlöschen kann. Die Funkenstrecken zünden daher noch viele Male, obwohl die Hochdruckentladungslampe bereits brennt und möglicherweise stabil brennt. Die Funkenstrecke als Verschleißteil des Zündgeräts wird daher in hohem Maße überflüssig belastet. Eine Verkürzung der Zeitkonstanten für den NTC-Widerstand würde zur Folge haben, daß bei einem Verlöschen der Hochdruckentladungslampe nach einem ersten Zünden kein sofortiger Zündversuch möglich ist, da sich der NTC-Widerstand erst wieder abkühlen muß. Die Folge wäre ein ständiges Ein- und Ausschalten der Hochdruckentladungslampe.Such an ignition device is known from DE-AS 11 92 741 and DE-AS 29 38 529 and is on the market as a device from BAG. The phase of an AC voltage supply is connected behind a ballast to the series connection of a first secondary winding of a Tesla transformer, the high-pressure discharge lamp and the second secondary winding of the Tesla transformer. The free end of the second secondary winding of the Tesla transformer is connected to the neutral conductor of the voltage supply. The primary winding of a high-voltage transformer is connected to the mains voltage via break contacts of two relays. An ignition capacitor and a spark gap are connected to the secondary winding of the high-voltage transformer. The ignition capacitor is charged during each half-wave until the discharge voltage of the spark gap is reached. The spark gap is in series with the primary winding of the Tesla transformer, so that in the case of the multiple discharges of the spark gap, one ignition pulse is transmitted to the high-pressure discharge lamp via the Tesla transformer. These generated ignition pulses of 30 to 70 kV are regularly able to ignite a high-pressure discharge lamp even when it is hot. After the ignition, the high-pressure discharge lamp is operated with the mains voltage, which is fed to the high-pressure discharge lamp via the secondary winding of the Tesla transformer. In unsuccessful ignition attempts, an interruption in the supply of the alternating voltage to the primary winding of the high-voltage transformer takes place in that a temperature-dependent resistor heats up and thereby causes one of the relays to be pulled, as a result of which the relay interrupts the voltage supply to the primary winding. If, on the other hand, the high-pressure discharge lamp ignites, a voltage drops across the ballast, as a result of which current is supplied to a second relay via an NTC resistor. If the resistance value of the NTC resistor has become small enough, the relay picks up and stops itself, so that through this relay the voltage supply to the primary winding of the High voltage transformer interrupted, ie the ignition is stopped. The delay caused by the NTC in switching off the ignition attempts after the lamp has been ignited serves to bridge the time in which the high-pressure discharge lamp can go out again shortly after the first ignition. The spark gaps therefore ignite many times, even though the high-pressure discharge lamp is already burning and may be burning stably. The spark gap as a wearing part of the igniter is therefore subject to a high degree of unnecessary stress. Shortening the time constant for the NTC resistor would have the consequence that if the high-pressure discharge lamp goes out after an initial ignition, an immediate attempt to start is not possible since the NTC resistor first has to cool down again. The consequence would be a constant switching on and off of the high pressure discharge lamp.

Ein ähnliches Zündgerät ist durch die DE-A-2 730 447 bekannt. Das Abschalten dieses Zündgeräts sowohl bei vergeblichen Zündversuchen als auch beim Zünden der Lampe erfolgt über Zeitglieder, die in diesem Fall durch RC-Kombinationen gebildet sind. Zwar ist in der Beschreibung erwähnt, daß die Hochdruckentladungslampe parallel zu den Schaltrelais liegen soll, um ein Kurzschließen der Schaltrelais durch die gezündete Lampe zu erzielen, das dargestellte Ausführungsbeispiel zeigt diese Maßnahme jedoch nicht. Sie wäre auch nicht zweckmäßig, weil dadurch das ständig pulsierende Ein- und Ausschalten der Hochdruckentladungslampe verursacht würde. Das entsprechende Zeitglied zum Abschalten der Zündschaltung nach einer definierten Verzögerungszeit nach dem Zünden der Hochdruckentladungslampe dient dazu, ein stabiles Brennen der Hochdruckentladungslampe sicherzustellen. Auch hierbei entsteht der Nachteil, daß eine Vielzahl von Funken durch die Funkenstrecke produziert werden, die gar nicht mehr nötig sind, wenn die Lampe bereits nach wenigen Zündversuchen stabil brennt.A similar igniter is known from DE-A-2 730 447. This ignition device is switched off both in unsuccessful ignition attempts and when the lamp is ignited by means of timers, which in this case are formed by RC combinations. Although it is mentioned in the description that the high-pressure discharge lamp should be parallel to the switching relays in order to short-circuit the switching relays through the ignited lamp, the exemplary embodiment shown does not show this measure. It would also not be expedient because it would cause the high-pressure discharge lamp to switch on and off constantly in a pulsating manner. The corresponding timer for switching off the ignition circuit after a defined delay time after the ignition of the high-pressure discharge lamp serves to ensure stable burning of the high-pressure discharge lamp. Here too there is the disadvantage that a large number of sparks are produced by the spark gap, which are no longer necessary if the lamp burns stably after only a few attempts to ignite.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Lündgerät der eingangs erwähnten Art zu erstellen, das auf die beim Zünden der Hochdruckentladungslampe auftretenden Betriebszustände schnell reagiert und eine unnötige Belastung der Funkenstrecke vermeidet.The invention has for its object to provide a starting device of the type mentioned that reacts quickly to the operating conditions that occur when the high-pressure discharge lamp is ignited and avoids unnecessary stress on the spark gap.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß bei einem Zündgerät der eingangs erwähnten Art dadurch gelöst, daß die zwischen einem Ausgangszustand und einem Verriegelungszustand verstellbare Verriegelungsschaltung durch ihr Zeitglied beim Zünden der Hochdruckentladungslampe mit einer wesentlich geringeren Geschwindigkeit in Richtung Ausgangszustand verstellbar ist als in Richtung Verriegelungszustand bei erfolglosen Zündversuchen und daß sich die Verriegelungsschaltung bei erneuten Zündversuchen vom jeweiligen Momentanwert ausgehend in Richtung Verriegelungszustand verstellt.This object is achieved according to the invention in an igniter of the type mentioned at the outset by that the locking circuit, which is adjustable between an initial state and a locking state, can be adjusted by its timer when the high-pressure discharge lamp is ignited at a much lower speed in the direction of the initial state than in the direction of the locking state in the event of unsuccessful ignition attempts, and that the locking circuit adjusts from the instantaneous value in the direction of the locking state when the ignition is attempted again .

Die Wirkungsweise des erfindungsgemäßen Zündgeräts beruht darauf, daß der Betriebszustand der Hochdruckentladungslampe unmittelbar den Zündbeendigungsschalter steuert, so daß die Zündung sofort beendet wird, wenn die Hochdruckentladungslampe brennt. Die bei den bekannten Zündgeräten durch die Verzögerungsschaltung ausgeschaltete Gefahr des ständigen Flackerns der Hochdruckentladungslampe, die sofort nach ihren Zünden wieder verlischt, wird erfindungsgemäß dadurch ausgeschaltet, daß die Verriegelungsschaltung elektronisch rückstellbar ist, wobei die Rückstellung wesentlich langsamer erfolgt als die Verstellung in Richtung Verriegelung. Wenn die Hochdruckentladungslampe zündet und anschließend sofort wieder verlischt, stellt sich die Verriegelungsschaltung nur wenig zurück, so daß durch die daraufhin wieder erfolgenden Zündversuche eine Verstellung in Richtung Verriegelung erfolgt. Auf diese Weise kann ein Flackern nur für eine gewisse zeit auftreten, die unwesentlich länger ist als die für erfolglose Zündversuche zur Verfügung stehende Zeit. Durch diese Kombination von Maßnahmen wird es möglich, verzögerungsfrei für den Regelfall der sofortigen stabilen Zündung der Hochdruckentladungslampe abzuschalten und dennoch ein kontinuierliches Flackern der Hochdruckentladungslampe durch ständiges Zünden und wieder Verlöschen zu verhindern.The mode of operation of the ignition device according to the invention is based on the fact that the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp directly controls the ignition termination switch, so that the ignition is ended immediately when the high-pressure discharge lamp is on. The danger of constant flickering of the high-pressure discharge lamp, which is switched off in the known ignition devices by the delay circuit and which goes out again immediately after it is ignited, is switched off according to the invention in that the locking circuit can be reset electronically, the resetting being carried out much more slowly than the adjustment in the direction of the locking. If the high-pressure discharge lamp ignites and then immediately goes out again, the locking circuit is reset only slightly, so that the ignition attempts which then occur again result in an adjustment in the direction of locking. In this way, flickering can only occur for a certain time that is slightly longer than the time available for unsuccessful ignition attempts. This combination of measures makes it possible to switch off without delay for the instantaneous, stable ignition of the high-pressure discharge lamp as a rule and yet to prevent the high-pressure discharge lamp from flickering continuously due to constant ignition and extinguishing.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Zündgeräts ist eine weitere Verstelleinrichtung vorgesehen, die die Verstellung der Verriegelungsschaltung in Richtung Ausgangszustand mit einer sehr geringen Zeitkonstanten beim Zusammenbruch der Netzspannung bewirkt.In a preferred embodiment of the ignition device according to the invention, a further adjustment device is provided which effects the adjustment of the locking circuit in the direction of the initial state with a very low time constant when the mains voltage collapses.

Ist das Verlöschen der Hochdruckentladungslampe auf den Zusammenbruch der Netzspannung zurückzuführen, wird die Verriegelungsschaltung schlagartig zurückgestellt, so daß für die anschließenden Zündversuche die volle, durch die Verriegelungsschaltung vorgegebene Zeit zur Verfügung steht.If the extinction of the high-pressure discharge lamp is due to the breakdown of the mains voltage, the locking circuit is suddenly reset, so that the full time predetermined by the locking circuit is available for the subsequent ignition attempts.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform wird als das von dem Betriebszustand der Hochdruckentladungslampe bestimmte Signal die mittlere Halbwellenamplitude auf der Versorgungsleitung ausgenutzt und an die Versorgungsleitung eine Pegelerkennungsschaltung angeschlossen. Diese weist zweckmäßigerweise eine Integrationsstufe auf, die eine Verzögerung zweiter Ordnung bewirkt. Die auf der Versorgungsleitung anstehende Netzspannung wird durch die gezündete Hochdruckentladungslampe hinter dem Vorschaltgerät so verformt, daß sich eine annähernde Rechteckspannung mit einem erniedrigten Pegel einstellt. Da die Rechteckspannung mit Überschwingspitzen versehen ist, ist es zweckmäßig, die Pegelerkennungsschaltung mit der Integrationsstufe zu versehen, die aufgrund der Verzögerung zweiter Ordnung die Überschwingspitzen eliminiert und den reduzierten Spannungspegel deutlich erkennen und auswerten läßt.In a preferred embodiment, the mean half-wave amplitude on the supply line is used as the signal determined by the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp and a level detection circuit is connected to the supply line. This expediently has an integration stage which brings about a second-order delay. The mains voltage present on the supply line is deformed by the ignited high-pressure discharge lamp behind the ballast in such a way that an approximate square-wave voltage with a reduced level is established. Since the square wave voltage is provided with overshoot peaks, it is expedient to provide the level detection circuit with the integration stage, which eliminates the overshoot peaks due to the second-order delay and clearly recognizes and evaluates the reduced voltage level.

In einer einfachen und kostengünstigen Ausführungsform ist die Verriegelungsschaltung durch eine Speicherkondensatoranordnung gebildet, die vom Ausgangssignal der Detektorschaltung bei nicht gezündeter Hochdruckentladungslampe aufgeladen wird, wobei der Ladungspegel der Speicherkondensatoranordnung eine Schaltstufe steuert, die den Zündbeendigungsschalter aktiviert. Die Speicherkondensatoranordnung bildet hierbei mit einem Widerstand das Zeitglied. Wird ein Entladepfad für die Speicherkondensatoranordnung vorgesehen, der mit einer gegenüber der Ladezeit vielfachen, beispielsweise fünf- bis zehnfachen Entladungszeit die Entladung der Speicherkondensatoranordnung bewirkt, wird die gewünschte allmähliche Verriegelung realisiert, wobei beim Erlöschen der kurzzeitig gezündeten Hochdruckentladungslampe die Speicherkondensatoranordnung gegebenenfalls noch eine Restladung aufweist und daher bis zu dem den Zündbeendigungsschalter aktivierenden Ladungspegel nur noch eine Restladung benötigt.In a simple and inexpensive embodiment, the locking circuit is formed by a storage capacitor arrangement, which is charged by the output signal of the detector circuit when the high-pressure discharge lamp is not ignited, the charge level of the storage capacitor arrangement controlling a switching stage which activates the ignition termination switch. The storage capacitor arrangement forms the timing element with a resistor. If a discharge path is provided for the storage capacitor arrangement, which causes the storage capacitor arrangement to be discharged with a multiple discharge time, for example five to ten times the discharge time, the desired gradual locking is realized, with the momentary extinction of which ignited high-pressure discharge lamp, the storage capacitor arrangement may also have a residual charge and therefore only requires a residual charge up to the charge level activating the ignition termination switch.

In dieser Ausführungsform der Verriegelungsschaltung ist die Speicherkondensatoranordnung zur Realisierung der schlagartigen Rückstellung der Verriegelungsschaltung über einen niederohmigen, vorzugsweise durch eine Diode, gebildeten Entladungspfad mit einer Klemme der Gleichspannungsversorgung verbunden, die nicht das Bezugspotential führt, gegenüber dem die Speicherkondensatoranordnung aufgeladen ist. Beim Zusammenbruch der Netzspannung fällt das Potential an dieser Gleichspannungsklemme auf das Bezugspotential ab, so daß sich für diesen Fall die Speicherkondensatoranordnung über die Diode schlagartig entladen kann.In this embodiment of the locking circuit, the storage capacitor arrangement is connected to a terminal of the DC voltage supply, which does not carry the reference potential against which the storage capacitor arrangement is charged, in order to implement the sudden resetting of the locking circuit via a low-resistance discharge path, which is preferably formed by a diode. When the mains voltage collapses, the potential at this DC voltage terminal drops to the reference potential, so that in this case the storage capacitor arrangement can suddenly discharge via the diode.

Die Erfindung soll im folgenden anhand eines in der Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiels näher erläutert werden. Die Zeichnung zeigt ein Schaltbild einer Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Zündgeräts.The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to an embodiment shown in the drawing. The drawing shows a circuit diagram of an embodiment of an ignition device according to the invention.

Zwischen zwei Versorgungsleitungen L1, N liegt eine übliche Netzwechselspannung an. Mit den beiden Versorgungsleitungen L1, N ist über eine Sicherung Si1 und einen Schalter S die Primärwicklung eines Netztransformators NT geschaltet. Parallel hierzu liegt in Serie ein üblicherweise durch eine Drossel gebildetes Vorschaltgerät VG, eine zweite Sicherung Si2, ein erster Teil der Sekundärwicklung eines Tesla-Transformators TT, die Entladungsstrecke einer Hochdruckentladungslampe L und der zweite Teil der Sekundärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators TT.A normal AC line voltage is present between two supply lines L1, N. The primary winding of a network transformer NT is connected to the two supply lines L1, N via a fuse Si1 and a switch S. Parallel to this is a series ballast VG, usually formed by a choke, a second fuse Si2, a first part of the secondary winding of a Tesla transformer TT, the discharge path of a high-pressure discharge lamp L and the second part of the secondary winding of the Tesla transformer TT.

Mit den beiden Enden der Primärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators ist die Serienschaltung einer Funkenstrecke F und der Sekundärwicklung eines Hochspannungstransformators HT verbunden.
Parallel zu der Sekundärwicklung des Hochspannungstransformators HT liegt eine Zündkondensatoranordnung aus drei in Serie geschalteten Kondensatoren C9,C10,C11, denen jeweils ein Widerstand R20,R22,R23 parallelgeschaltet ist.The series connection of a spark gap F and the secondary winding of a high-voltage transformer HT are connected to the two ends of the primary winding of the Tesla transformer.
Parallel to the secondary winding of the high-voltage transformer HT is an ignition capacitor arrangement made up of three capacitors C9, C10, C11 connected in series, each of which has a resistor R20, R22, R23 connected in parallel.

Die Sekundärwicklung des Netztransformators NT speist eine Doppelweg-Gleichrichterbrücke G1, deren gleichgerichtetes Ausgangssignal durch an den Null-Leiter N gelegte, zueinander parallelgeschaltete Glättungskondensatoren C1,C2 geglättet wird. Die so geglättete Gleichspannung dient als Versorgungsspannung für einen ersten Operationsverstärker OV1, einen zweiten Operationsverstärker OV2 sowie einen Schalttransistor TR2 und die zugehörigen Beschaltungsnetzwerke.
Zwischen der zweiten Sicherung Si2 und der Sekundärwicklung des Tesla-Transformators TT liegt eine Detektionsschaltung für den Spannungspegel des Wechselspannungssignals zwischen den Versorgungsleitungen D , N . Die Detektionsschaltung besteht aus einer Diode D1 an die sich ein Filternetzwerk aus zwei integrierenden, hintereinander geschalteten RC-Gliedern R1,C3 und R2, C4 gegen den Null-Leiter N anschließt. Zwischen dem Verbindungspunkt des Widerstands R2 und des Kondensators C4 ist ein Trimmpotentiometer TRP gegen den Null-Leiter geschaltet. Der Abgriff des Trimmpotentiometers TRP ist über einen Widerstand R4 mit dem nicht-invertierenden Eingang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 verbunden. An dem invertierenden Eingang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 liegt eine Referenzspannung an, die aus der Versorgnungs-Gleichspannung mit Hilfe eines durch einen Widerstand R3 und eine Zener-Diode ZD1 gebildeten Spannungsteiler erzeugt ist. Die über der Zener-Diode ZD1 abfallende Spannung wird über einen Widerstand R5 dem invertierenden Eingang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 zugeführt. Zwischen dem Ausgang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 und seinem nicht-invertierenden Eingang liegt ein Rückkopplungszweig mit einem Widerstand R6. Der Ausgang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 ist über einen Widerstand R12 mit der Basis des Transistors TR2 verbunden, dessen Kollektor an der positiven Versorgungs-Gleichspannung liegt, so daß der Transistor TR2 als Emitterfolger geschaltet ist. Mit dem Emitter sind zwei Spannungsteiler aus den Widerständen R14,R15 bzw. R18,R19 zueinander parallel gegen den Null-Leiter N geschaltet. Der Abgriff des ersten Spannungsteilers R14,R15 ist mit der Steuerelektrode eines Triac TRI1 und der Abgriff des zweiten Spannungsteilers R18,R19 mit der Steuerelektrode eines zweiten Triac TRI2 verbunden. Parallel zum ersten Triac TRI1 liegt die Parallelschaltung aus einem Festwiderstand R17 und einem spannungsabhängigen Widerstand VDR1, parallel zum zweiten Triac TRI2 ein zweiter spannungsabhängiger Widerstand VDR2, wobei alle Bauteile einseitig mit dem Null-Leiter N verbunden sind. Der andere Anschluß des ersten Triacs TRI1 ist über einen Widerstand R16 mit einem Zündhilfekondensator C7 verbunden, der an die Leitung D angeschlossen ist. Die andere Anschlußklemme des zweiten Triacs TRI2 ist über die Primärwicklung des Hochspannungstransformators HT mit dem Verbindungspunkt zwischen dem Schalter S und der Primärspule des Netztransformators NT angeschlossen.The secondary winding of the mains transformer NT feeds a full-wave rectifier bridge G1, the rectified output signal of which is smoothed by smoothing capacitors C1, C2 connected to the neutral conductor N and connected in parallel with one another. The DC voltage smoothed in this way serves as a supply voltage for a first operational amplifier OV1, a second operational amplifier OV2 and a switching transistor TR2 and the associated wiring networks.
Between the second fuse Si2 and the secondary winding of the Tesla transformer TT there is a detection circuit for the voltage level of the alternating voltage signal between the supply lines D, N. The detection circuit consists of a diode D1 to which a filter network consisting of two integrating RC elements R1, C3 and R2, C4 connected in series is connected to the neutral conductor N. Between the connection point of the resistor R2 and the capacitor C4, a trimming potentiometer TRP is connected to the neutral conductor. The tap of the trim potentiometer TRP is connected via a resistor R4 to the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1. A reference voltage is present at the inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1, which is generated from the DC supply voltage with the aid of a voltage divider formed by a resistor R3 and a Zener diode ZD1. The voltage drop across the Zener diode ZD1 is fed via a resistor R5 to the inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1. A feedback branch with a resistor R6 is located between the output of the operational amplifier OV1 and its non-inverting input. The output of the operational amplifier OV1 is connected via a resistor R12 to the base of the transistor TR2, the collector of which is connected to the positive DC supply voltage, so that the transistor TR2 is connected as an emitter follower. With the emitter, two voltage dividers from the resistors R14, R15 and R18, R19 are connected in parallel to each other against the neutral conductor N. The tap of the first voltage divider R14, R15 is connected to the control electrode of a triac TRI1 and the tap of the second voltage divider R18, R19 is connected to the control electrode of a second triac TRI2. Parallel to the first triac TRI1 is the parallel connection of a fixed resistor R17 and a voltage-dependent resistor VDR1, parallel to the second triac TRI2 is a second voltage-dependent resistor VDR2, all components being connected on one side to the neutral conductor N. The other connection of the first triac TRI1 is connected via a resistor R16 to an auxiliary ignition capacitor C7, which is connected to line D. The other terminal of the second Triacs TRI2 is connected via the primary winding of the high-voltage transformer HT to the connection point between the switch S and the primary coil of the mains transformer NT.

Der Ausgang des ersten Operationsverstärkers OV1 ist weiterhin einerseits über einen Widerstand R7 mit der positiven Versorgungsgleichspannung und über die Reihenschaltung einer Diode D2 und eines Widerstands R8 mit einer Parallelschaltung aus zwei Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 verbunden, deren jeweilige anderen Platten am Null-Leiter N liegen. Die positiven Platten der beiden Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 sind mit dem nicht-invertierenden Eingang des zweiten Operationsverstärkers OV2 verbunden. Dieser ist über einen Widerstand R9 mit dem Null-Leiter N und eine in Sperrichtung gepolte Diode D3 mit der positiven Versorgungs-Gleichspannung verbunden. Der Ausgang des zweiten Operationsverstärkers OV2 ist direkt auf den invertierenden Eingang zurückgekoppelt, so daß der Operationsverstärker OV2 als Spannungsfolger fungiert. Der Ausgang ist ferner über einen Widerstand R10 mit der positiven Versorgungs-Gleichspannung und über einen Widerstand R11 mit der Anode einer Zener-Diode ZD2 verbunden, deren Kathode an der Basis eines Schalttransistors TR1 liegt. Die Basis des Schalttransistors TR1 ist über einen Widerstand R13 an den Null-Leiter N gelegt. Der Emitter des Schalttransistors TR1 ist unmittelbar an den Null-Leiter N angeschlossen, während sein Kollektor mit der Kathode einer Diode D4 verbunden ist, deren Anode an der Basis des Transistors TR2 liegt.The output of the first operational amplifier OV1 is connected on the one hand via a resistor R7 to the positive DC supply voltage and via the series connection of a diode D2 and a resistor R8 to a parallel connection of two storage capacitors C5, C6, the other plates of which are connected to the neutral conductor N. The positive plates of the two storage capacitors C5, C6 are connected to the non-inverting input of the second operational amplifier OV2. This is connected via a resistor R9 to the neutral conductor N and a diode D3 polarized in the reverse direction to the positive DC supply voltage. The output of the second operational amplifier OV2 is directly fed back to the inverting input, so that the operational amplifier OV2 acts as a voltage follower. The output is also connected via a resistor R10 to the positive DC supply voltage and via a resistor R11 to the anode of a Zener diode ZD2, the cathode of which is at the base of a switching transistor TR1. The base of the switching transistor TR1 is connected to the neutral conductor N via a resistor R13. The emitter of the switching transistor TR1 is connected directly to the neutral conductor N, while its collector is connected to the cathode of a diode D4, the anode of which lies at the base of the transistor TR2.

Die so beschriebene Schaltung arbeitet wie folgt:The circuit described in this way works as follows:

Der auf der die Phase führenden Versorgungsleitung D herrschende Signalpegel wird durch die Detektorschaltung dadurch detektiert, daß die positive Halbwelle über die Diode D1 auf das Integrationsnetzwerk R1,C3,R2,C4 gelangt, so daß über das Trimmpotentiometer TRP zwei unterschiedliche Pegel an den nicht-invertierenden Eingang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 in Abhängigkeit davon gelangen, ob die Hochdruckentladungslampe L gezündet hat oder nicht. Bei nicht gezündeter Lampe übersteigt der Pegel am nicht-invertierenden Eingang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 den durch die Zener-Diode ZD1 eingestellten Referenzpegel am invertierenden Eingang, so daß am Ausgang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 ein hoher Spannungspegel anliegt, der an der Basis des Transistors TR2 anliegt, so daß dieser leitend wird. Über die Spannungsteiler R14,R15 bzw. R18,R19 werden die beiden Triacs TRI1 und TRI2 leitend geschaltet. Das Durchschalten des zweiten Triacs TRI2 bewirkt das Anlegen der Netzspannung auf den Versorgungsleitungen L1, N an die Primärspule des Hochspannungstransformators HT. Auf der Sekundärseite wird in bekannter Weise die Zündkondensatoranordnung C9,C10,C11 während einer Halbwelle mehrfach aufgeladen und jeweils bei Erreichen der Zündspannung der Funkenstrecke F entladen. Über den Tesla-Transformator TT werden die durch die Funkenstrecke F erzeugten Stromimpulse in eine sehr hohe Spannung auf der Sekundärseite des Tesla-Transformators TT transformiert und dienen zur Zündung der Hochdruckentladungslampe L.The signal level prevailing on the supply line D leading to the phase is detected by the detector circuit in that the positive half-wave reaches the integration network R1, C3, R2, C4 via the diode D1, so that two different levels on the non- inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1 depending of whether the high-pressure discharge lamp L has ignited or not. When the lamp is not ignited, the level at the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1 exceeds the reference level at the inverting input set by the Zener diode ZD1, so that a high voltage level is present at the output of the operational amplifier OV1, which is present at the base of the transistor TR2, so that it becomes a leader. The two triacs TRI1 and TRI2 are switched on via the voltage dividers R14, R15 and R18, R19. Switching on the second triac TRI2 causes the mains voltage to be applied to the supply lines L1, N to the primary coil of the high-voltage transformer HT. On the secondary side, the ignition capacitor arrangement C9, C10, C11 is charged several times during a half-wave and discharged each time the ignition voltage of the spark gap F is reached. The current pulses generated by the spark gap F are transformed into a very high voltage on the secondary side of the Tesla transformer TT via the Tesla transformer TT and serve to ignite the high-pressure discharge lamp L.

Zur Unterstützung des Zündvorganges wird über den ersten Triac TRI1 der Zündhilfskondensator C7 wirksam geschaltet.To assist the ignition process, the auxiliary ignition capacitor C7 is activated via the first triac TRI1.

Gelingt die Zündung der Hochdruckentladungslampe L nicht, führt das positive Potential am Ausgang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 zu einer Aufladung der Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6, bis diese nach einer vorbestimmten Zeit den durch die Zenerdiode ZD2 und den Transistor TR1 vorgegebenen Schwellwert erreichen. In diesem Moment wird der Transistor TR1 leitend und die Basis des Transistors TR2 auf Nullpotential gezogen. Der Transistor TR2 wird dadurch gesperrt und sperrt seinerseits die beiden Triacs TRI1 und TRI2, wodurch der Zündvorgang beendet wird. Die Dauer des Zündvorgangs wird durch das die Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 und den Widerstand R8 gebildete Zeitglied sowie durch den mit der Zenerdiode ZD2 und dem Transistor TR1 eingestellten Schwellwert bestimmt.If the high-pressure discharge lamp L fails to ignite, the positive potential at the output of the operational amplifier OV1 leads to a charging of the storage capacitors C5, C6 until after a predetermined time they reach the threshold value specified by the Zener diode ZD2 and the transistor TR1. At this moment, the transistor TR1 becomes conductive and the base of the transistor TR2 opens Zero potential drawn. The transistor TR2 is thereby blocked and in turn blocks the two triacs TRI1 and TRI2, whereby the ignition process is ended. The duration of the ignition process is determined by the timing element formed by the storage capacitors C5, C6 and the resistor R8 and by the threshold value set with the Zener diode ZD2 and the transistor TR1.

Da am Ausgang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 das positive Signal erhalten bleibt, bleiben die Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 aufgeladen, so daß die gesamte Schaltung verriegelt ist und keine weitere Zündung vorgenommen werden kann. Ein erneutes Zünden ist erst möglich, nachdem die Versorg-ungsspannung auf den Versorgungsleitungen L1,N abgeschaltet worden ist und sich die Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 über die Diode D3 entladen konnten. Damit ist sichergestellt, daß bei einer erfolglosen Zündung nicht durch die Schaltung selbst erneute Zündversuche unternommen werden können.Since the positive signal is retained at the output of the operational amplifier OV1, the storage capacitors C5, C6 remain charged, so that the entire circuit is locked and no further ignition can be carried out. A new ignition is only possible after the supply voltage on the supply lines L1, N has been switched off and the storage capacitors C5, C6 have been able to discharge via the diode D3. This ensures that if the ignition is unsuccessful, the circuit itself cannot attempt the ignition again.

Hat die Hochdruckentladungslampe L hingegen durch die Zündimpulse gezündet,fällt der Pegel am nicht-invertierenden Eingang des Operationsverstärkers OV1 unter den Pegel der Referenzspannung am invertierenden Eingang. Das Ausgangssignal des Operationsverstärkers OV1 wird schlagartig Null, wodurch der Transistor TR2 sperrt und die Triacs TRI1 und TRI2 ebenfalls gesperrt werden, so daß der Zündvorgang abgebrochen wird. Somit bewirkt die Schaltung innerhalb weniger Halbwellen der Netzspannung ein Abschalten des Zündgenerators, wenn die Hochdruckentladungslampe L gezündet hat. Auf diese Weise werden unnötige weitere Zündimpulse wirksam unterbunden.If, on the other hand, the high-pressure discharge lamp L has been ignited by the ignition pulses, the level at the non-inverting input of the operational amplifier OV1 falls below the level of the reference voltage at the inverting input. The output signal of the operational amplifier OV1 suddenly becomes zero, as a result of which the transistor TR2 blocks and the triacs TRI1 and TRI2 are likewise blocked, so that the ignition process is terminated. The circuit thus switches off the ignition generator within a few half-waves of the mains voltage when the high-pressure discharge lamp L has ignited. In this way, unnecessary further ignition pulses are effectively prevented.

Wenn der Ausgang des Operationsversärkers OV1 auf Nullpotential liegt, können sich die Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 über den Widerstand R9 entladen und werden daher in ihren Ausgangszustand zurückgeführt.If the output of the operational amplifier OV1 is at zero potential, the storage capacitors C5, C6 can discharge via the resistor R9 and are therefore returned to their initial state.

Für den Fall, daß die Hochdruckentladungslampe L nur kurzzeitig zündet und anschließend wieder verlischt, werden die Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 unter Umständen nur teilweise entladen, bevor das Ausgangssignal des Operationsverstärkers OV1 wieder auf einen positiven Pegel umschaltet. Auf die Restladung der Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 wird nun erneut geladen, und zwar ggfs. bis der Schwellwert von ZD2 und TR1 erreicht wird. Während dieser Zeit ist der Zündgenerator wirksam. Es ist deutlich erkennbar, daß die wirksame Zeit des Zündgenerators in diesem Fall kürzer ist als zu Beginn des Zündversuches, da die Ladezeit der Speicherkondensatoren C5, C6 bis zum Erreichen der Schwellwertspannung aufgrund deren Restladung verkürzt worden ist. Zündet die Lampe mehrfach und verlischt jedes Mal gleich darauf wieder, kann dieser Zyklus nur einige Male stattfinden, bis die Speicherkondensatoren C5,C6 die Schaltung verriegeln und weitere Zündversuche unterbinden, die zu einer übermäßigen Belastung der Funkenstrecke F führen würden.In the event that the high-pressure discharge lamp L ignites only briefly and then goes out again, the storage capacitors C5, C6 may be only partially discharged before the output signal of the operational amplifier OV1 switches back to a positive level. The remaining charge of the storage capacitors C5, C6 is then recharged, if necessary until the threshold value of ZD2 and TR1 is reached. The ignition generator is active during this time. It can be clearly seen that the effective time of the ignition generator in this case is shorter than at the start of the ignition attempt, since the charging time of the storage capacitors C5, C6 has been shortened until the threshold voltage has been reached due to their residual charge. If the lamp ignites several times and then goes out again immediately afterwards, this cycle can only take place a few times until the storage capacitors C5, C6 lock the circuit and prevent further ignition attempts which would lead to an excessive load on the spark gap F.

Bricht die Netzspannung zusammen, weil beispielsweise das Zündgerät durch den Schalter S abgeschaltet worden ist, fällt die von der Gleichrichterbrücke G1 produzierte positive Gleichspannung auf das Bezugspotential des Null-Leiters N ab. Die Speicherkondensatoranordnung C5,C6 kann sich in diesem Fall über die Diode D3 schlagartig entladen, wodurch eine gewünschte schlagartige Rückstellung der Verriegelungsschaltung für den Fall des Netzspannungszusammenbruchs realisiert ist.If the mains voltage breaks down, for example because the igniter has been switched off by the switch S, the positive DC voltage produced by the rectifier bridge G1 drops to the reference potential of the neutral conductor N. In this case, the storage capacitor arrangement C5, C6 can suddenly discharge via the diode D3, as a result of which a desired sudden resetting of the locking circuit is realized in the event of a mains voltage breakdown.

Das beschriebene Zündgerät erfüllt daher in zweckmäßiger Weise die Funktionen für alle möglichen Zündfälle der Hochdruckentladungslampe L, nämlich

  • beim korrekten Zünden der Entladungslampe L, bei dem weitere Zündversuche nach kürzester Zeit unterbunden werden
  • beim Ausbleiben der Zündung der Hochdruckentladungslampe L über eine vorbestimmte Zeit, nach der die Schaltung verriegelt und weitere Zündversuche unmöglich macht und
  • beim nur kurzzeitigen Zünden der Entladungslampe und anschließenden Verlöschen, wobei das Zündgerät verkürzte erneute Zündversuche zuläßt und bei nicht erneutem Durchzünden oder bei wiederholtem Zünden und Erlöschen verriegelt und weitere Zündversuche unterbindet
  • beim Erlöschen der Hochdruckentladungslampe L aufgrund eines Zusammenbruchs der Netzspannung wird die Verriegelungsschaltung vollständig zurückgestellt, so daß die gesamte Zündzeit für Zündversuche zur Verfügung steht.
The igniter described therefore advantageously fulfills the functions for all possible ignition cases of the high-pressure discharge lamp L, namely
  • when the discharge lamp L is ignited correctly, in which further ignition attempts are prevented after a very short time
  • if the ignition of the high-pressure discharge lamp L fails to occur for a predetermined time, after which the circuit locks and further ignition attempts are impossible, and
  • when the discharge lamp is ignited only briefly and then goes out, the igniter allowing shortened renewed attempts to fire and locked in the event of not re-igniting or repeated ignition and extinguishing and preventing further attempts to ignite
  • when the high-pressure discharge lamp L goes out due to a breakdown of the mains voltage, the locking circuit is completely reset so that the entire ignition time is available for ignition attempts.

Das erfindungsgemäße Zündgerät erlaubt daher eine optimale Ausnutzung der Lebensdauer der Funkenstrecke F und unterbindet einen länger währenden Flackerzustand der Hochdruckentladungslampe L zuverlässig.The ignitor according to the invention therefore allows optimum use of the service life of the spark gap F and reliably prevents a longer flickering condition of the high-pressure discharge lamp L.

Claims (7)

  1. An ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps (L), having a spark gap (F) which is connected in parallel with an ignition capacitor arrangement (C9, C10, C11) and feeds the primary winding of an ignition transformer (TT), supply leads (D, N), located beyond a lamp ballast (VG), being connected to the high-pressure discharge lamp (L) through the secondary winding of the ignition transformer (TT), wherein an a.c. voltage is fed to the arrangement comprising the spark gap (F) and the ignition capacitor (C9, C10, C11) by way of a high-voltage transformer (HT) to the primary winding of which is connected an ignition-terminating switch (TR12) which cuts off the a.c. voltage from the primary winding and which is controllable by a signal determined in dependence upon the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp (L), wherein a locking circuit (G5, C6, OV2, TR1) is provided with a timing element which adjusts itself at a predetermined speed when the high-pressure discharge lamp (L) is not ignited and, after a predetermined time, cuts off the a.c. voltage from the primary coil of the high-voltage transformer (T) (locking) if the high-pressure discharge lamp (L) has not been ignited, and wherein the signal indicating the lighting of the high-pressure discharge lamp (L) controls the ignition-terminating switch (TR12) instantaneously, characterised in that, upon igniting of the high-pressure discharge lamp, the locking circuit adjustable between an initial state and a locking state is adjustable by its timing element at a substantially lower speed in the direction of the initial state than in the direction of the locking state when ignition attempts are unsuccessful, and that the locking circuit adjusts itself from the prevailing instantaneous value in the direction of the locking state upon renewed ignition attempts.
  2. An ignition device as claimed in claim 1, characterised by a further adjusting device (D3) which effects adjustment of the locking circuit in the direction of the initial state at a very low time constant upon collapse of the mains voltage.
  3. An ignition device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the mean half-wave amplitude on the supply lead (D) is utilized as the signal determined by the operating state of the high-pressure discharge lamp (L), and a level-detection circuit is connected to the supply lead (D).
  4. An ignition device as claimed in claim 3, characterised in that the level-detection circuit has an integration stage (R1, C3, R2, C4) which effects a delay of the second order.
  5. An ignition device as claimed in one of the claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the locking circuit is formed by storage capacitor arrangement (C5, C6) which is charged by the output signal of the level-detection circuit when the high-pressure discharge lamp (L) is not ignited, and that the charging level of the storage capacitor arrangement (C5, C6) controls a switching stage (OV2, TR1) which activates the ignition-terminating switch (TR12).
  6. An ignition device as claimed in claim 5,characterised by a discharge path (R9) for the storage capacitor arrangement (G5, C6), which discharge path effects a discharge with a discharge time which is five to ten times longer than the charging time of the storage capacitor arrangement (C5, C6).
  7. An ignition device as claimed in claim 5 or 6, characterised by a low-resistance discharge path (D3) which is connected to the potential of a d.c. voltage supply (GL) which is not the reference potential for charging the storage capacitor arrangement (C5, C6).
EP87109527A 1986-07-09 1987-07-02 Ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps Expired - Lifetime EP0252438B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT87109527T ATE62783T1 (en) 1986-07-09 1987-07-02 IGNITOR FOR HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE3622984 1986-07-09
DE19863622984 DE3622984A1 (en) 1986-07-09 1986-07-09 IGNITION DEVICE FOR HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0252438A1 EP0252438A1 (en) 1988-01-13
EP0252438B1 true EP0252438B1 (en) 1991-04-17

Family

ID=6304689

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP87109527A Expired - Lifetime EP0252438B1 (en) 1986-07-09 1987-07-02 Ignition device for high-pressure discharge lamps

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0252438B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE62783T1 (en)
DE (2) DE3622984A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4890041A (en) * 1988-03-10 1989-12-26 Hubbell Incorporated High wattage HID lamp circuit
EP0337021A1 (en) * 1988-04-12 1989-10-18 Actronic Lighting Cc Ignition device for a gas discharge lamp
US5036256A (en) * 1990-06-21 1991-07-30 Gte Products Corporation Arc discharge ballast suitable for automotive applications
US5574338A (en) * 1995-06-07 1996-11-12 Nicollet Technologies Corporation Control circuit for gas discharge lamps, which has a transformer with start and run windings
EP0759684A1 (en) 1995-08-21 1997-02-26 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Starting device for a high pressure discharge lamp
DE10330013A1 (en) * 2003-07-03 2005-02-03 Elektrobau Oschatz Gmbh & Co. Kg Ignitor with intelligent shutdown

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE1192741B (en) * 1963-02-23 1965-05-13 Siemens Ag Circuit arrangement for lighting high-pressure gas discharge lamps
DE2730447C2 (en) * 1977-07-06 1983-05-11 Walter Bauch GmbH, 1000 Berlin Ignitor and operating device for discharge lamps
DE2938529C2 (en) * 1979-09-24 1981-10-15 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München Ignition and operating device for a high pressure lamp
US4356433A (en) * 1980-07-07 1982-10-26 The Nuarc Company, Inc. HID Lamp power supply
DE3331780A1 (en) * 1983-09-02 1985-03-21 Siemens AG, 1000 Berlin und 8000 München CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENT FOR IGNITING AND OPERATING A DISCHARGE LAMP

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE62783T1 (en) 1991-05-15
DE3622984A1 (en) 1988-01-21
DE3769382D1 (en) 1991-05-23
EP0252438A1 (en) 1988-01-13
DE3622984C2 (en) 1989-12-07

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