EP2380404B1 - Method for actuating operating devices - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a method for controlling at least two light sources according to claim 1. In addition, the present invention relates to a lighting system for controlling at least two light sources according to claim 9.

Technical field and state of the art

Lighting control and lighting management systems have become established as part of modern lighting solutions. Control gear of modern design, such as electronic ballasts for gas discharge lamps or operating devices for light-emitting diodes, usually have interfaces via which external control commands can be transmitted to the operating device. For example, a desired luminous intensity (dimming level) of the luminous means can be set by appropriate control signals.

In the lighting industry, various standards have been developed for the control of operating devices, which differ in their complexity. The most technologically advanced are digital solutions, where the operating device has a digital interface, via which digital control commands can be sent from a control unit to the operating unit and back.

The communication can be bidirectional, ie the operating device can not only be a receiver of signal commands, but also act as a transmitter of signals. For example, the operating device can be active report a status report to the control unit if an error occurs.

For the transmission of signals from the prior art a variety of ways are known: Thus, wired transmission (for example by using the power supply line (Powerline) or use of a separate from the power supply line pair) and wireless transmission (eg radio, infrared) possible.

As an example of the control of operating devices is referred to the so-called DSI technology (Digital Serial Interface) and the so-called DALI protocol (digitally addressable lighting interface). The DALI standard provides a comprehensive digital command set for communication with the operating device. In a DALI-compliant lighting system, in addition to the operating device with a digital interface, an associated bus device including a digital control unit is necessary.

In many cases, the user wants a less expensive technology that is a bit cheaper, but nonetheless provides the essential functionality.

Thus, from the prior art operating devices are known in which at the digital interface (control input) either a digital signal or a signal generated by means of a power supply supplied with a button signal can be applied. If the user does not want to use the digital peripherals, this may be optional the digital control input of the operating device can be controlled by pressing a button.

In this case, for example, the time duration and the repetition rate of the pushbutton actuation are evaluated as a signal for switching on and / or off or for brightness control (dimming). An example of such an operating device, at whose digital control input a signal generated by means of a mains voltage supplied with a button or switch is present signal is, for example, in DE 297 24 657 disclosed.

An application for the control of the operating device by means of push-button operation is given in presence-controlled lighting solutions, where the operating device is controlled by a motion detector. Such operating devices, which are connected to one or more motion detectors are, for example, in staircases, long corridors, underground garages, pedestrian underpasses or in subway stations in use. If a movement is detected by a motion detector, for example due to the presence of a person, the operating device ensures that the corresponding room area is illuminated by the illuminant with a desired brightness (operating setpoint). In the absence of movement (absence), the bulb is dimmed to a resting value.

Operating devices of the prior art have only a dimming scenario, the determination of the dimming scenario with the individual dimming parameters takes place during the manufacture of the operating device or during installation shortly before commissioning, for example by means of programming, and can not be changed during operation ,

For example, it is known that the document US 2004/0160199 A1 , which describes a variety of lighting unit types and configurations for lighting rooms. Also described are methods and systems for powering the lighting units, for controlling lighting units, and addressing control data for the lighting units.

A dimming scenario determines how the changeover between the dimming stages can take place. Instead of switching abruptly between the dimming steps, the operating device can be set so that the changeover between the dimming steps takes place during a certain period of time (fade-on or fade-off time).

The definition of a dimming scenario with suitable values for the dimming steps, fade-on and fade-off times is in practice not easy, since the switching behavior of the operating device can be highly dependent on the specific application.

For example, in hospital corridors it is prescribed by standards that a certain amount of residual brightness always has to be present even at night, even if no movement has been detected for a certain period of time. On the other hand, in a staircase of a private residential complex, the lighting can be switched off relatively quickly at night, after 'peace has returned'.

• Der Bewegungsmelder in einer Tiefgarage spricht in 'Stosszeiten' sehr häufig an, wenn die Tiefgarage stark frequentiert ist (beispielsweise morgens zu Arbeitbeginn und abends zu Arbeitsende), während in ruhigeren Zeiten beispielsweise in den tiefen Nachstunden relativ selten ein Bewegungssignal ausgelöst wird.

The number of times motion detection occurs and the time between two consecutive motion detections can vary widely:

• The motion detector in an underground garage responds very often in 'rush hours' when the underground car park is heavily frequented (for example in the morning at work and in the evening at the end of work), whereas in quieter times, for example during low hours of night, a movement signal is rarely triggered.

When setting the dimming scenario, two aspects should now be considered as a priority: Firstly, in order to save as much energy as possible, the lamps should be in operation for as short a time as possible and only if they are really necessary. On the other hand, rapid successive switching on and off operations with a short switch-on and switch-off time are to be avoided, since this can have a life-shortening effect on the lighting means.

In addition, with certain lamps, such as high-pressure gas discharge lamps, a rapid succession of switching off and on again is not possible, since the lamp first has to cool down before it can be re-ignited. There is also a difference in the different bulbs in terms of their energy balance at different brightnesses. For example, a high-pressure gas discharge lamp can be operated very effectively at high brightness, while LEDs have a high efficiency even at very low brightnesses. This consideration also includes the required drive. For example, when dimming fluorescent lamps, an additional heating of the coils is required.

Presentation of the invention

The object of the invention is to improve the control of operating devices. In particular, the requirements of energy efficiency and conservation of the light source should be taken into account.

The stated object of the invention is solved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims further form the central idea in a particularly advantageous manner.

• zwei verschiedene Leuchtmittel von einem Betriebsgerät betrieben werden,
• das Betriebsgerät wenigstens eine Schnittstelle aufweist,
• wobei abhängig von dem über die Schnittstelle des Betriebsgerätes zugeführten Signal die Leuchtmittel voneinander unterschiedlich angesteuert werden.

The invention relates to a method for controlling at least two lamps, wherein

• two different bulbs are operated by a control gear,
• the operating device has at least one interface,
• wherein depending on the signal supplied via the interface of the operating device, the lighting means are controlled differently from one another.

• wenigstens zwei verschiedene Leuchtmittel,
• ein Betriebsgerät zum Betreiben der Leuchtmittel, wobei das Betriebsgerät zumindest eine Schnittstelle aufweist,
• wobei abhängig von einem über die Schnittstelle zugeführten Signal die Leuchtmittel voneinander unterschiedlich angesteuert werden.

The invention also relates to an illumination system for controlling at least two light sources, which has the following features:

• at least two different bulbs,
• an operating device for operating the lighting means, wherein the operating device has at least one interface,
• wherein depending on a signal supplied via the interface, the lighting means are controlled differently from one another.

According to the invention, a method is also proposed for driving at least two light sources, wherein two different light sources are operated by one operating device each, the operating devices are connected to one another via an interface, and at least one operating device has at least one further interface, wherein one of them depends on one Further interface of an operating device supplied signal the lamps are controlled differently from each other.

The invention also proposes a lighting system for controlling at least two light sources, comprising at least two different light sources, at least two operating devices for operating one light source each, wherein the operating devices each have at least one interface, which are connected to each other, and at least one operating device another interface wherein, depending on a signal supplied via a further interface, the lighting means are controlled differently from one another.

According to the invention, a method for controlling electronically controlled operating devices is proposed. Typical examples of such an operating device are electronic ballasts (ECG) for gas discharge lamps or operating devices (drivers) for organic or inorganic light-emitting diodes.

According to the invention, the two lamps can also be operated by a respective operating device in the lighting system, and a first operating device has at least one interface, wherein the operating devices are connected to each other via a further interface, and wherein depending on a signal supplied via the interface of the first operating device, the lighting means are controlled differently from each other.

According to the invention, this method may comprise the following steps: In the operating device, at least two different dimming stages are defined, wherein a first dimming stage corresponds to a quiescent value and a second dimming stage corresponds to an operating setpoint of the lighting means. Furthermore, at least two different dimming scenarios are defined, wherein the dimming scenarios are characterized by at least one dimming parameter and the different dimming scenarios differ by the values of the dimming parameters.

The dimming scenario describes the transition between the idle and the operating setpoint or between the setpoint and the idle value. According to the invention, one of the various dimming stages is selectively controlled as a function of a control signal which is supplied to the operating device. A change in the dimming level caused by the control signal can take place according to one of the dimming scenarios.

The dimming scenario can also take into account the different behavior of the two lamps and therefore provide different dimming levels for the individual lamps.
The dimming scenarios can also provide a different control of the individual lamps.

When detecting a movement in a defined spatial area, the operating device is preferably based on a quiescent value, to a different operating setpoint than the quiescent value.

The control signal on the operating device can be generated by a motion detector which is connected to a control input of the operating device.

Preferably, the dimming levels (for example, quiescent value, operating setpoint) and the dimming parameters are adjustable.

The quiescent value can be set to a value of more than 0% light output.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control signals are statistically evaluated and, depending thereon, the dimming scenarios (i.e., the value of the dimming parameters) and / or the dim levels are adjusted. According to the invention, the frequency of the control signals and / or the duration between the control signals can be evaluated.

Preferably, it is evaluated how often and at which time intervals a control signal is applied to the operating device in a certain period of time. Depending on this, the dimming scenarios and / or dimming levels are adjusted.

In an advantageous variant, the time duration for the changeover between the dimming stages is prolonged when control signals accumulate during a certain period of time. If control signals are seldom applied to the operating device within a certain period of time, then the time interval for the changeover between the dimming steps can be shortened. The process can of course can be carried out the other way, ie when accumulating signals, the time duration for the change between the dimming stages can be shortened and extended in the other case.

The dimming scenario (the dimming parameters) can additionally / alternatively be adapted to the time of day.

In a further embodiment, a determination of the time of day can be made on the basis of the detection of the control signals.

Preferably, the evaluation of the control signals (evaluation of the switching behavior) is implemented by software.

According to the invention, there is disclosed a computer software program product that assists a method according to any one of the preceding claims when running on a computing unit.

The invention also relates to a control device for lighting means, which is designed for carrying out such a method.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a control gear having a control input. In the operating device, at least two different dimming levels and at least two different dimming scenarios are stored and depending on a control signal applied to the control input, one of the dimming stages is selectively controlled, wherein the change of the dimming level takes place according to one of the dimming scenarios.

According to the invention in the operating device, the frequency of the control signals and / or the duration between the Control signals are evaluated and depending on the dimming scenarios and / or the dimming levels are adjusted. The control signal can be generated by a motion detector.

The invention also relates to a lighting system for controlling electronically controlled operating devices, wherein the lighting system has at least one operating device and at least one motion detector. At least two different dimming stages and at least two different dimming scenarios are stored in the operating device. Depending on a control signal applied to the control input of the operating device, one of the dimming stages can be selectively activated, wherein the change of the dimming stage takes place according to one of the dimming scenarios. According to the invention, it can be evaluated how often and at what distance motion messages are detected and, depending on this, the dimming scenarios and / or the dimming stages can be adapted.

Further advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the two appended drawings.

illustration 1 shows an arrangement of a control device 2 with a motion detector. 1

Figures 2a and 2b show the time course of the signal applied to the operating device 2 and the control of the operating device. 2

illustration 1 shows a schematic representation of an illumination system 10 comprising a known Motion detector 1, an (electronic) operating device 2, as well as a light source 4 connected to an output 3.

The illuminant 4 can in principle be any illuminant, for example gas discharge lamps or organic or inorganic light-emitting diodes.

To the operating device 2, a further light source 6 is also connected. The illuminant 6 may in principle be any illuminant, for example organic or inorganic light-emitting diodes or gas discharge lamps. Advantageously, the two lamps 4 and 6 are not of the same type or of the same group of lamps (that is, for example, a combination of light emitting diode and gas discharge lamp).

The illustrated operating device 2 has the three terminals PE, L, N, which can be contacted with the ground, the phase conductor and the neutral conductor and form the power supply 5.

The operating device 2 also has an interface with the terminals D1 and D2. These connections D1 and D2 can be designed in such a way that digital commands can be transmitted to the operating device via these connections, for example according to the DALI standard protocol, or the operating device can send digital signals. Optionally, the two terminals D1 and D2 may be formed so that signals are transmitted by the supply voltage such as the mains voltage or push button signals. optional For example, the two terminals D1 and D2 can also be designed so that analog signals such as 1-10V signals are transmitted. In the illustrated example, the terminal D1 is connected to the neutral N of the power supply 5.

Between the other terminal D2 of the operating device 2 and the phase conductor L of the power supply 5, a commercially available motion detector 1 is connected. Essentially two different signals can now be present at the control input D2, namely one for the detection of a movement by the motion detector 1 and a signal different therefrom in the event that no movement is detected on the motion detector 1.

In the example shown, the following definition is present: If the motion detector 1 detects a movement, it closes the connection between the phase conductor L and the connection D2 briefly so that the signal level of the phase conductor L is present at the control input D2.
In the other case, when the motion detector 1 detects no movement, the connection between the phase conductor L and the terminal D2 is interrupted, so that no voltage is applied to the terminal D2. Of course, other definitions or encodings of the motion signal are possible.

The operating device 2 can also have a further interface with the terminals D3 and D4. At this interface (D3, D4), for example, a brightness sensor or other sensor or even a signal from another operating device or control unit can be received. It may also be possible that signals are sent via this further interface (D3, D4) can be. The respective use or usage of this additional interface can be programmable.

But it may also be possible to connect directly to this interface (D3, D4), the further light source (6) such as a light emitting diode and to control. In this case, no additional connections for the further lighting means 6 would be necessary for the operating device 2, but it would be possible to use the connections D3 and D4 for connecting the further lighting means 6.

The use or mode of operation of the further interface with the terminals D3 and D4 can be programmable as stated, and thus these connections can also be reprogrammed, for example, to control the further light source 6.

According to the invention, a method for controlling at least two light sources (4, 6) is thus made possible, wherein two different light sources (4, 6) are operated by an operating device (2), the operating device (2) has at least one interface (D1, D2 ), and wherein depending on the via the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device (2) supplied signal, the lighting means (4, 6) are driven differently from each other.

The illumination system (10) for controlling at least two light sources (4, 6) may have the following features: at least two different light sources (4, 6), an operating device (2) for operating the light sources (4, 6), wherein the operating device (2) has at least one interface (D1, D2), depending on a via the interface (D1, D2) supplied signal, the lighting means (4, 6) are controlled differently from each other.

The signal supplied via the interface (D1, D2) may be a signal from a motion detector (1) or a relay. Via the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device (2), communication by means of digital signals may be possible. Push-button signals can be received via the interface (D1, D2) of the operating unit (2).
The further light source (6) can be controlled via a further interface (D3, D4) of the operating device (2) via which data can alternatively be transmitted. This further interface (D3, D4) can be provided for the connection of a sensor.

The operating device (2) can control the connected lighting means (4, 6) as a function of the signal supplied via a further interface (D3, D4) (if this is used for the transmission of data, for example by a sensor).

The activation of the lighting means (4, 6) may differ in the (temporal) sequence or direction of the brightness changes. The light sources (4, 6) can differ in terms of their light spectrum and / or their properties in terms of dynamics or lifetime.

A lighting means (4) may be a gas discharge lamp (fluorescent lamp, high-pressure gas discharge lamp) and the other Illuminant (6) to an organic or inorganic light emitting diode (LED) act.

The two light sources (4, 6) can be arranged inside a luminaire.

A possible time course of the voltage applied to the operating device 2 signal is in the lower part of the Figure 2a shown. This signal can be generated for example by a motion detector 1.
If a movement is detected, the full mains supply voltage is present in this example, but the motion detector 1 detects no movement, so there is no voltage at the control input (D1, D2) of the operating device 2.

Optionally, the motion detector 1 can be designed so that after elimination of movement, the voltage at the control input (D1, D2) of the operating device 2 does not drop immediately, but even a certain period of time (delay time), the power supply voltage at the control input of the operating device 2 is maintained. This time period (delay time) can be adjusted if necessary and is marked in the figure (shown in dark).

The upper part of the Figure 2a shows the control of the operating device 2 and serves to explain a dimming scenario. At least two dimming stages are stored in the operating device 2, the resting value DS_OFF and the operating setpoint DS_ON.

The idle value DS_OFF may be a lower dimming level compared to the operating setpoint DS_ON, for example 0% light output, but of course also be set to a value with more than 0% light output. The quiescent value DS_OFF is typically triggered when no voltage is applied to the input signal (D1, D2) of the operating device 2.

If the mains supply voltage is present at the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device 2 (ie a movement is detected), the operating device 2 controls a different operating setpoint DS_ON from the idle value DS_OFT, wherein the operating setpoint DS_ON in an advantageous embodiment is one compared to Resting value DS_OFF indicates increased light output of the connected illuminant (4, 6). But it is also possible that the operating setpoint DS_ON has a lower light output than the idle value DS_OFF.

If the signal / voltage at the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device 2 now changes, a change takes place between the dimming stages DS_ON and DS_OFF according to a dimming scenario. A change in the signal is present at time A and time B. A dimming scenario is characterized by at least one dimming parameter, for example by the time duration during which the changeover takes place between the dimming stages. In Figure 2a If this time period for switching between DS_OFF and DS_ON is designated as fade-on time, the time period for switching between DS_ON and DS_OFF is marked as fade-off time. The change between DS_OFF and DS_ON takes place at the Figure 2a example shown very quickly (the fade-on time is very small), the fade-on time can of course be longer.

The dimming scenario according to Fig. 2a For example, it can be used in such a way that, when the operating setpoint DS_ON is operating, the lighting means 4 is operated with high brightness.

During the transition to the resting value DS_OFF, the lighting means 6 can additionally be switched on, while the lighting means 4 is either switched off directly or switched off slowly, for example, by a shutdown of the brightness.

The light-emitting means 6 can also be permanently activated, for example, with the higher brightness of the light-emitting means 4 (in the case of the operating setpoint DS_ON) this light-emitting means 4 providing the perceived brightness. In this case, the light source 6 may also be a light source, which should not be switched often or changed in its brightness. The change of the brightness, which is desired, for example, by detecting a movement, can be achieved by changing the control of the illuminant 4. Thus, an additive total brightness for the operating setpoint DS_ON can result from operating both light sources 4 and 6.

Changing between the dim levels can not be done in a single step. It is possible that the operating device 2 in the meantime one or more average dimming levels DS_1, ..., DS_N drives and lingers on this a certain period of time. Dimming levels DS_1, ..., DS_N have dimming values between the idle value DS_OFF and the operating setpoint DS_ON. An example of such a dimming scenario is in Figure 2b where first a middle dimming level DS_1 is driven (during the time period t1).

The operating device 2 lingers for a certain time t2 at the level DS_1, before then the resting value DS_OFF is reached.

In Figure 2b a dimming scenario is shown with a middle dimming level DS_1 for switching between DS_ON to DS_OFF. Of course, more complex dimming scenarios with mean dimming levels DS_N are also possible for switching from DS_OFF to DS_ON (ie when there is motion detection).

As stated above, a dimming scenario is characterized by the values of the at least one dimming parameter. Dimming parameters are all parameters that describe the change between DS_OFF and DS_ON, such as the individual durations for the time change between the dimming levels (for example, fade-on time, fade-off time, etc .) And the dimming and number of intermediate dimming DS_1, ..., DS_N.

The dimming scenario according to Fig. 2b can for example be applied so that for the change between the dimming one illuminant (for example, light source 6) gradually changes its brightness, while the second light means (for example, light source 4) completely switched off at a certain moment or even turned on.

Another possibility of the invention is that the dimming scenario is adapted to the switching behavior of the motion detector 1. For this purpose, the signal applied to the control input (D1, D2) of the operating device 2 can be statistically evaluated.

In a preferred embodiment, it is detected and / or evaluated how often and at which time intervals a control signal is present. If the control signal is supplied by a motion detector 1, this means that it is statistically evaluated how often and / or at which time intervals movements are detected. This information can now be used to dynamically adapt the values of the dimming parameters and / or the dimming levels DS_OFF and DS_ON to the respective situation. Various dimming scenarios can be stored in the operating device 2 and the evaluation of the movement messages can be used to select a specific dimming scenario.

If many movements are detected in a certain period of time (ie the room in question is heavily frequented), the time required to switch between DS_ON and DS_OFF (fade-off time) can be extended. Additionally or alternatively, the resting value DS_OFF and / or the operating setpoint DS_ON can also be changed (increased).

It is also possible to change between different dimming scenarios, that is to say, for example, that the operating device 2 no longer directly controls the idle value DS_OFF in one step from the operating setpoint DS_ON, but additionally in the meantime on one or more middle dimming stages DS_1, ... , DS_N lingers. The middle dimming levels DS_1, ..., DS_N can be selected close to the operating setpoint DS_ON. Through these measures can be achieved that the room in question during the period, while it is heavily frequented, is very well lit.

In addition, it can be achieved by adapting the dimming scenarios that time-sequentially switching off and on again of a light-emitting means (4) can be avoided by preferentially controlling the second light-emitting means (6). To reduce such unnecessary switching operations, the time period for the transition from DS_ON to DS_OFF may be chosen to be on the order of the average time between two motion messages.

On the evaluation of the switching behavior of the motion detector 1 can also be detected whether this has set a delay time. It is also possible to estimate how large this delay time may be.

If the space in question is less heavily used, then the dimming scenario can be adjusted in such a way that the idle value DS_OFF is reached more quickly, that is to say that the time span for the transition between DS_ON and DS_OFF is shortened. Of course, the dimming scenario can also be adapted.

In a further advantageous embodiment variant, the dimming scenario (the dimming parameters) can be adapted to the time of day (day period). Thus, various dimming scenarios can be stored in the operating device 2, and depending on the time of day, a different dimming scenario can be used and / or selected.

In a further embodiment, a determination of the time of day can be made on the basis of the detection of the control signals. It can be provided that the operating device 2 based on the statistical evaluation of the motion messages pattern or recognizes properties that repeat themselves in a daily rhythm, thus allowing conclusions to be drawn about the time of day (daily period). This detection of the time of day can also be supplemented by measuring the brightness, for example with the aid of a light sensor.

Depending on the recorded time of day, the day period or the statistical evaluation of the motion messages, the two bulbs 4 and 6 can be controlled differently. For example, in the case of a high number of detected movements, the light source 6 (which can be switched quickly) is preferably operated and controlled, while the light-emitting means 4 can be activated when the switching frequency is low. Depending on the detected time of day or switching frequency, a light source can be activated or deactivated permanently or at least for a longer period. This can be the case, for example, for the provision of a basic brightness for the resting value DS_OFF or for switching off a luminous means during exclusive operation of the other luminous means, for example in an operating phase (day period) with low operating setpoint DS_ON (for example night operation) and / or very frequently detected movement ,

The control of the operating devices 2 can also be done via a relay of a central control or, for example, as a function of another presence detection such as a door monitoring.

The setting of the dimming values (idle value DS_OFF, operating setpoint DS_ON) and the parameter of the dimming scenario (DS_1, ..., DS_N, fade-on time, fade-off time, ...) can be done for example via an interface (D3, D4). This programming can be done during operation, during installation, during production etc. The interface for programming can also be designed wirelessly.

According to the invention, the activation of the two light sources (4, 6) can take place in accordance with various dimming scenarios and the selection of a dimming scenario can be made dependent on a control signal which is supplied to the interface (D1, D2) of the first operating unit (2) ,

The lighting system (10) can also be constructed according to the invention such that the control of at least two different light sources (4, 6) by at least two operating devices (2, 2 '), each of which a lighting means (4, 6) operate ,

The operating devices (2, 2 ') can each have at least one interface (D3, D4) which are connected to one another, and at least one first operating device (2) can have a further interface (D1, D2). Via the interconnected interfaces (D3, D4) a unidirectional or bidirectional communication between the operating devices (2, 2 ') can be made possible.

The first operating device (2) can, for example, operate the first lighting means (4) and the second operating device (2 ') can, for example, operate the further lighting means (6). Depending on a signal supplied via a further interface (D1, D2), the Illuminants (4, 6) thus by the two operating devices (2, 2 ') are controlled differently from each other.

In the illumination system (10), the signal supplied via a further interface (D1, D2) may be a signal from a motion detector (1) or a relay.

A first operating device (2) can, upon receipt of a signal supplied via a further interface (D1, D2), carry out a communication with the second operating device (2 '). The second operating device (2 ') can, upon receipt of a signal supplied via a further interface (D1, D2), respond to a communication (via which the interconnected interfaces D3, D4) with the first operating device (2).

The first operating device (2) can control the connected lighting means (4) as a function of the signal supplied via a further interface (D1, D2). The first operating device (2) can control the connected lighting means (4) depending on the communication with the second operating device (2 '). Preferably, the control of the connected lighting means (4) is dependent on the information sent via the interconnected interfaces (D3, D4) information, if necessary, the first operating device in a bidirectional communication to respond to signals of the second operating device (2 '). The second operating device (2 ') can control the connected lighting means (6) depending on the signal supplied via the interface (D3, D4).

In the illumination system (10), the control of the lighting means may differ in the (temporal) sequence or direction of the brightness changes.

Thus, a method for controlling at least two light-emitting means (4, 6) is possible, wherein two different light sources are operated by a respective operating device (2, 2 '), and the operating devices (2, 2') via one interface (D3 , D4) are interconnected, and at least one operating device (2) has a further interface (D1, D2), wherein depending on a via a further interface (D1, D2) of an operating device (2) signal supplied to the lighting means (4, 6 ) are controlled differently from each other.

In the illumination system (10), the two lighting means (4, 6) are thus operated by a respective operating device (2, 2 '), and a first operating device (2) has at least one interface (D1, D2), wherein the operating devices ( 2, 2 ') via another interface (D3, D4) are interconnected, and wherein depending on a via the interface (D1, D2) of the first operating device (2) supplied signal, the lighting means (4, 6) are driven differently from each other ,

The illumination system (10) for controlling at least two light sources (4, 6) can have at least two different light sources (4, 6), at least two operating devices (2, 2 ') for operating one light source (4, 6) each are. At least one operating device (2) has an interface (D1, D2). The operating devices (2, 2 ') can at least each have an interface (D3, D4) which are interconnected.

Depending on a signal supplied via the interface (D1, D2) of the first operating device (2), the lighting means (4, 6) can be controlled differently from one another. The activation of the two light sources (4, 6) by the two operating devices (2, 2 ') can be effected as a function of the communication via the interconnected interface (D3, D4) (ie depending on the information or signals transmitted thereon).

In contrast to the first embodiment of the invention, where an operating device (2) controls two different lighting means (4, 6) depending on the signal received via an interface (D1, D2), in the second embodiment of the invention where at least two operating devices (2, 2 ') via an interface (D3, D4) are interconnected and each one operating device (2, 2') each a lighting means (4,6) controls, operating devices are used, which are each designed only for driving a light source ,

In the second embodiment, only one operating device (2) must have a (further) interface (D1, D2) which can receive and evaluate signals from, for example, a motion detector (1), provided both operating devices (2, 2 ') have an interface (D3, D4) are interconnected. This interface (D3, D4), via which the two operating devices (2, 2 ') are connected to one another, can be made less robust in comparison to the further interface (D1, D2), since no different control devices (for example Motion detectors, including various manufacturers) must be able to be connected.

In summary, the invention discloses an improved control of two different lighting means (4, 6) by at least one operating device 2, which is characterized in that it can adapt flexibly and dynamically to different situations.

Claims (22)

1. A method for actuating at least two lighting means (4, 6), wherein

   - two different lighting means (4, 6) are operated by at least one operating device (2),

   - the operating device (2) has at least one interface (D1, D2),

   - wherein depending on two different signals fed by way of the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device (2) the lighting means (4, 6) are actuated differently from each other,

   - wherein a first lighting means of two different lighting means (4, 6) is an organic or inorganic light-emitting diode (LED) and a second lighting means of the two different lighting means (4, 6) is a gas discharge lamp,
   characterized in that

   - the two different signals from a motion sensor (1) are fed to the interface (D1, D2), namely a first signal for the detection of a movement by the motion sensor (1) and a second signal different therefrom in the event, that no motion is detected by the motion sensor (1), and

   - wherein the second lighting means of the two different lighting means (4, 6) is activated or deactivated on a sustained basis and the first lighting means of the two different lighting means for a period upon detection of a movement by the motion sensor (1).
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein depending on a number of movements detected by the motion sensor (1) the second lighting means (4) and/or the first lighting means (6) is actuated.
3. A method according to claim 1, wherein upon detection of a movement in a defined area of space the operating device (2) is navigated to an operating desired value (DS_ON) different from a quiescent value (DS_OFF).
4. A method according to claim 3, wherein during the transition to the quiescent value (DS_OFF) the second lighting means is additionally switched on, while the first lighting means is either switched off or is slowly switched off by a phasing down of the brightness.
5. A method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the dimming steps (DS_1, ... , DS_N) are provided as dimming values between the quiescent value (DS_OFF) and the operating desired value (DS_ON), and a change between the operating desired value (DS-ON) and the quiescent value (D_OFF) does not occur in a single step, but rather the operating device (2) actuates one or several of the dimming steps (DS_1, ... , DS_N) and pauses for a certain duration at the dimming steps (DS_1, ... , DS_N).
6. A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating device (2) statistically evaluates the signals present at the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device (2), and wherein, depending on how often and/or at what time intervals the signals are present, the lighting means (4, 6) are actuated and/or the values of the dimming steps are dynamically adjusted for the quiescent value (DS_OFF) and for the operating desired value (DS_ON).
7. A method according to claim 6, wherein different dimming scenarios are stored in the operating device (2) and depending on the statistical evaluation of the signals present a specific dimming scenario is selected.
8. A lighting system (10) for actuating at least two lighting means (4, 6), having

   - at least two different lighting means (4, 6),

   - at least one operating device (2) for operating the lighting means (4, 6), wherein the operating device (2) has at least one interface (D1, D2), and one motion sensor (1),

   - wherein depending on two different signals fed by way of the interface (D1, D2) the lighting means (4, 6) are actuated differently from each other,
   wherein a first lighting means of two different lighting means (4, 6) is an organic or inorganic light-emitting diode (LED) and a second lighting means of the two different lighting means (4, 6) is a gas discharge lamp,
   characterized in that

   - the two different signals are fed by a motion sensor (1) to the interface (D1, D2), namely a first signal for detecting a movement by the motion sensor (1) and a second signal different therefrom in the event, that no motion is detected by the motion sensor (1), and

   - wherein the operating device is equipped to activate or to deactivate the second lighting means of the two different lighting means (4, 6) on a sustained basis and the first lighting means of the two different lighting means for a period upon detection of a movement by the motion sensor (1).
9. A lighting system (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that a communication occurs by means of digital signals by way of the interface (D1, D2).
10. A lighting system (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the first lighting means is actuated by way of a further interface (D3, D4) of the operating device (2), by means of which alternatively data are also transmitted.
11. A lighting system (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the further interface (D3, D4) is provided for the connection of a sensor.
12. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the actuation of the lighting means (4, 6) differs in a time sequence or direction of a change in the brightness.
13. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that the lighting means (4, 6) differ by their light spectrum and/or their properties with respect to dynamics or service life.
14. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that the two lighting means (4, 6) are arranged within one light.
15. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that the actuation of the two lighting means (4, 6) occurs according to different dimming scenarios and the selection of a dimming scenario occurs depending on a control signal, which is fed to the interface (D1, D2) of the first operating device (2).
16. A lighting system (10) according to claim 8, wherein the operating device (2) is equipped to actuate the second lighting means and/or the first lighting means depending on a number of movements detected by the motion sensor (1).
17. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 16, wherein the operating device (2) is equipped to avoid temporally short successive switching-off and restarting processes of the second lighting means, as it actuates the first lighting means.
18. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 17, wherein upon detection of a movement in a defined area of space by the motion sensor (1) the operating device (2) is equipped to navigate to an operating desired value (DS_ON) different from a quiescent value.
19. A lighting system (10) according to claim 18, wherein the operating device (2) is equipped to operate the first lighting means in the case of operating desired value (DS_ON) and wherein upon the transition to the quiescent value the second lighting means (4) is activated, while the operating device (2) is equipped either to switch off the first lighting means (6) or to slowly switch it off by a phasing down of the brightness.
20. A lighting system (10) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the dimming steps (DS_1, ... , DS_N) are provided as dimming values between the quiescent value (DS_OFF) and the operating desired value (DS_ON), and the operating device (2) does not implement a change between the operating desired value (DS_ON) and the quiescent value (DS_OFF) in a single step, but rather the operating device (2) is equipped to actuate one or several of the dimming steps (DS_1, ... , DS_N) and to pause for a certain duration at the dimming steps (DS_1, ... , DS_N).
21. A lighting system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 20, wherein the operating device is equipped to statistically evaluate the signals present at the interface (D1, D2) of the operating device (2), and depending on how often and/or at what time intervals the signals are present, to actuate the lighting means (4, 6) and/or to adjust the values of the dimming steps dynamically for the quiescent value (DS_OFF) and for the operating desired value (DS_ON).
22. A lighting system (10) according to claim 21, wherein different dimming scenarios are stored in the operating device (2) and the operating device (2) is equipped to select a specific dimming scenario depending on the statistical evaluation of the signals present.

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