EP3058795B1 - Method and device for communication in a lighting system - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to methods and devices for communication in lighting systems. The invention relates in particular to methods and devices in which a central unit, a lamp operating device or a plurality of lamp operating devices is supplied with a DC supply voltage, communication between the central unit and a sensor of a lamp operating device being made possible.

The DE 10 2010 031 230 A1 relates to an LED lighting system with a modular operating circuit, comprising a first module, which has a second submodule, preferably an isolated energy-transmitting DC / DC converter, and has a control unit, and one or more second modules, preferably lamp management modules, each at least has a further sub-module, preferably a constant current source, and a control unit, at least one LED section being fed from the further sub-module, the first module transmitting electrical energy from the second sub-module to the further sub-module of each second module, and in parallel thereto an internal, preferably bidirectional communication interface is provided between the control unit of the first module and the control unit in every second module.

Conventionally, illuminant operating devices for light-emitting diodes (LED) or other illuminants are often designed in such a way that they have an input for coupling to an AC voltage supply source and provide a direct current or a direct voltage for the illuminant at their output. When using several such illuminant operating devices in a system, a rectifier and / or a power factor correction circuit must accordingly be provided in each of the illuminant operating devices.

To simplify and save costs, it is possible to provide a central processing unit which generates a direct voltage (DC) supply voltage and makes it available to one or more illuminant operating devices via a DC bus. The illuminant operating devices are provided separately from the central unit. The illuminant operating devices are coupled to the central unit via a DC bus.

In normal commercial operation, in which the illuminants connected to the illuminant operating devices emit light, the central unit generates a DC supply voltage with a voltage level on the DC bus. Communication between the central unit and the lamp control gear can take place via the DC bus.

In a standby mode in which the lamps connected to the lamp operating devices emit no light, the voltage level on the DC bus is reduced. Nevertheless, it is desirable to enable communication between the central unit and components of the illuminant operating devices, for example even in standby mode.

The invention is based on the object of specifying methods and devices which also enable communication between the central unit and a component of the illuminant operating devices when the voltage level on the DC bus is reduced. The invention is particularly based on the object of specifying methods and devices of this type which enable communication between a central unit and a sensor of an illuminant operating device, even in a standby mode, without having to use several additional lines for this.

The tasks were solved with the subject of the independent claims. Advantageous refinements are described in the dependent claims.

According to exemplary embodiments of the invention, it is provided that a central unit, which supplies a lamp operating device with energy via a DC bus, communicates with a sensor of the lamp operating device via a line, which is also used, at least in a standby mode, to supply the sensor with energy.

The central unit can generate at least two voltage levels on the DC bus, via which the central unit supplies the lamp operating device with energy. At least when the voltage level on the DC bus is reduced, for example in a standby mode, communication between the sensor and the central unit can take place via the same line, via which the central unit also supplies the sensor with energy during the Voltage level on the DC bus is reduced.

The line can be the DC bus or a data line different from the DC bus, which is used in standby mode both for power supply and for communication between the central unit and the sensor.

The sensor can send sensor data to the central unit via the DC bus or the data line other than the DC bus. The central unit can send control commands to the light medium operating device via the DC bus or the data line other than the DC bus.

In a system, several such illuminant operating devices can be connected to the DC bus and communicate with the central unit.

The devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments allow the central unit to supply energy to the sensor and to ensure communication between the sensor and the central unit even when a voltage level on the DC bus is reduced compared to a useful operation. Communication can take place via the DC bus. If a data line other than the DC bus is used for communication between the sensor and the central unit, the energy supply of the sensor can be used for energy supply of the sensor at least in standby mode.

In a method for communication between a central unit and a lamp operating device, the central unit generates a DC supply voltage for supplying the lamp operating device. The illuminant operating device has a sensor. Data is transmitted between the central unit and the sensor of the lamp operating device via a line via which the central unit supplies the sensor of the lamp operating device with energy.

The central unit is coupled to the lamp operating device via a DC bus. The central unit can generate a voltage level on the DC bus in a first operating state and can reduce the voltage level on the DC bus compared to the first operating state in a second operating state.

The transmitted data can include sensor data that are transmitted from the sensor to the central unit in the second operating state. The reduction in the voltage level on the DC bus can indicate that a standby mode is activated. At least in the standby mode, the sensor data can be transmitted from the sensor to the central unit and the sensor can be supplied with power via the same line.

In the second operating state, the sensor can transmit the sensor data to the central unit via the DC bus. The DC bus between the central unit and the lamp operating device can be used both for powering the sensor in standby mode and for data communication in standby mode. In standby mode, the central unit can reduce the voltage level on the DC bus so that it is lower than the voltage level during normal operation, but a finite voltage is still provided on the DC bus for the operation of the sensor.

In addition to the DC bus, the central unit and the illuminant operating device can be connected to a line that is different from the DC bus. In the second operating state, e.g. standby mode, the sensor can be supplied with energy by the central unit via the line other than the DC bus. In addition, the sensor data can be transmitted to the central unit via the line other than the DC bus. The additional line can be designed as a single-wire bus, which is used at least in the second operating state both for supplying energy to the sensor and for data transmission.

The data transmission can take place by generating a modulated signal. The signal can be a high-frequency signal, which can have a frequency of, for example, at least one kHz or at least one MHz.

The data can be encoded in the modulated signal in different ways. Different bit values can be encoded, for example, by different amplitudes, different frequencies and / or different time intervals between pulse edges of the modulated signal.

Data can be transmitted in a frame or packet that contains address information. The address information can be assigned to a lighting device or a sensor. The frame or packet can include a header with the address information. The address information can be displayed by the lamp operating device sending the data or the sensor sending the data. The address information can indicate for which lamp operating device a control command is intended.

The illuminant operating device can comprise a modulator, which generates the modulated signal for transmitting the sensor data. The central unit can comprise a demodulator which demodulates the modulated signal.

The second operating state can be a standby mode. The second operating state is an operating mode in which a voltage level on the DC bus is reduced.

The transmission of the data can include the transmission of a control command coded in the data, which is transmitted from the central unit to the lamp operating device.

The control command can be addressed to the lamp operating device or the sensor.

The control command can be a switch-off command for switching off the lamp connected to the lamp operating device.

The central unit can comprise a power factor correction circuit. The central unit can include both a rectifier and a power factor correction circuit. The central unit can include a SELV ("Safety Extra Low Voltage") barrier.

The illuminant operating device can be designed such that it does not comprise a power factor correction circuit. The power factor correction can be implemented by the central unit for several illuminant operating devices.

The illuminant operating device can be a SELV device.

The central unit can be connected to a plurality of illuminant operating devices which comprise a sensor. The multiple illuminant operating devices can be connected to the DC bus. Each of the multiple illuminant operating devices can be connected to an LED module.

A central unit for supplying illuminant operating devices according to one exemplary embodiment is set up to generate a DC supply voltage for supplying the illuminant operating device. The central unit comprises a connection for supplying energy to a sensor of a lamp operating device. The central unit comprises a communication device which is coupled to the connection and which is set up to switch between the central unit and the sensor of the Illuminating device to receive and / or send data to be transmitted via the connection.

The communication device can be set up to receive sensor data from the sensor of the lamp operating device via the connection.

The central unit can be set up to receive the sensor data via a DC bus and to supply the sensor with energy via the DC bus even when the illuminant operating device is in a standby mode. For this purpose, the connection can be set up for coupling to a DC bus. The central unit can be set up to generate a voltage level on the DC bus in a first operating state and to reduce the voltage level compared to the first operating state in a second operating state. The communication device can be set up to receive sensor data from the sensor at the connection in the second operating state.

The central unit can be set up to receive the sensor data via a line that is different from the DC bus and to supply the sensor with energy at least in standby mode via the line that is different from the DC bus. For this purpose, the central unit can include a bus connection that is different from the connection and that is set up for coupling to a DC bus. The connection via which the sensor data is received can be set up for coupling to the line other than the DC bus. The central unit can be set up to supply the sensor with energy via the line different from the DC bus in a second operating state in which a voltage level on the DC bus is reduced.

The line other than the DC bus can be a single wire bus.

The communication device can comprise a demodulator for demodulating a signal received at the connection and / or a modulator for generating a control command. The control command can be addressed to a sensor or a lamp operating device. The control command can be a command to switch off the lamp operating device.

An illuminant operating device according to an exemplary embodiment is set up to receive a DC supply voltage from a central unit and to supply an illuminant with energy. The illuminant operating device comprises a sensor, a connection for a power supply for the sensor and a communication unit. The communication unit is coupled to the sensor and is set up to send and / or receive data to be transmitted between the sensor of the lamp operating device and the central unit via the connection.

The illuminant operating device can be set up in such a way that it is supplied with energy in normal normal operation via a DC bus, and in a standby mode the data communication and the supply of the sensor with energy take place via the DC bus. For this purpose, the connection can be set up for coupling to a DC bus. The illuminant operating device can be configured to supply the illuminant with energy in a first operating state when a first voltage level is present on the DC bus and to supply the sensor with energy in a second operating state when the voltage level on the DC bus is reduced. The communication unit can be set up to transmit sensor data from the sensor via the connection in the second operating state.

The illuminant operating device can be set up in such a way that it is supplied with energy during normal useful operation via a DC bus and that in a standby mode the data communication and the supply of the sensor with energy take place via a line which is different from the DC bus is. For this purpose, the illuminant operating device can comprise a bus connection which is different from the connection and is set up for coupling to a DC bus. The connection via which the data communication and energy supply of the sensor takes place at least in standby mode can be set up for coupling to a line different from the DC bus. The sensor can be set up to be supplied with energy in the second operating state via the line other than the DC bus.

The line other than the DC bus can be a single wire bus.

The communication unit can comprise a modulator for generating a modulated signal depending on an output signal of the sensor and / or a demodulator for demodulating a modulated signal received at the connection.

The communication unit can be set up to generate the modulated signal in such a way that the transmitted data includes address information of the lighting device and / or the sensor.

The sensor can be structurally integrated in a housing of the lamp operating device. The sensor can be arranged outside a housing of the lamp operating device.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, a system is specified which comprises a central unit according to one exemplary embodiment, at least one lamp operating device according to one exemplary embodiment, at least one LED module which is connected to the at least one lamp operating device, and a DC bus which is connected to the central unit and the at least one lamp operating device is connected.

The illuminant operating device and the LED module can be integrally formed. The illuminant operating device and the LED module can be arranged in a common housing and / or on a common carrier.

Several lighting devices can be connected to the same DC bus.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, a unit is specified which comprises a lamp operating device according to one exemplary embodiment and at least one LED module which is connected to the at least one lamp operating device. The illuminant operating device and the LED module can be arranged in a common housing and / or on a common carrier.

Devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments can be used in particular for lighting systems in which the illuminant comprises a light-emitting diode (LED) or a plurality of LEDs.

• Figur 1 zeigt ein Beleuchtungssystem mit einer Zentraleinheit und mehreren Leuchtmittelbetriebsgeräten nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• Figur 2 zeigt eine Spannung an einem DC-Bus bei Verfahren und Vorrichtungen nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel.
• Figur 3 ist ein Flussdiagramm zur Erläuterung der Funktionsweise einer Zentraleinheit nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel.
• Figur 4 ist ein Flussdiagramm zur Erläuterung der Funktionsweise eines Leuchtmittelbetriebsgeräts nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel.
• Figur 5 zeigt ein Beleuchtungssystem mit einer Zentraleinheit und einem Leuchtmittelbetriebsgerät nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• Figur 6 zeigt eine Spannung an einem DC-Bus bei dem Beleuchtungssystem von Figur 5.
• Figur 7 zeigt ein Potenzial an einem Eindraht-Bus des Beleuchtungssystems von Figur 5.
• Figur 8 dient zur weiteren Erläuterung der Ausgestaltung der Zentraleinheit und des Leuchtmittelbetriebsgeräts nach einem Ausführungsbeispiel.

Further features, advantages and functions of exemplary embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals designate units with the same or similar function.

• Figure 1 shows a lighting system with a central unit and several illuminant operating devices according to an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 2 shows a voltage on a DC bus in methods and devices according to an embodiment.
• Figure 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a central processing unit according to an embodiment.
• Figure 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a lamp operating device according to an embodiment.
• Figure 5 shows a lighting system with a central unit and a lamp operating device according to an embodiment of the invention.
• Figure 6 shows a voltage on a DC bus in the lighting system of FIG Figure 5 .
• Figure 7 shows a potential on a single-wire bus of the lighting system from Figure 5 .
• Figure 8 serves to further explain the configuration of the central unit and the lamp operating device according to one embodiment.

Figure 1 shows a system 1 with a central unit 10, a plurality of lamp operating devices 20, 30 and a plurality of LED modules 4, each of which is connected to a lamp operating device 20, 30. The central unit 10 is set up to generate a DC supply voltage and to supply the lamp operating devices 20, 30 with energy via a DC bus 3. Elements such as a rectifier or a power factor correction circuit 12, which would conventionally have to be provided separately in each of a plurality of LED converters, can be present in the central unit 10 and then no longer have to be used separately in the various lamp operating devices 20, 30. The illuminant operating devices 20, 30 no longer have to have their own power factor correction circuit and / or no rectifier on the input side.

The illuminant operating devices 20, 30 are connected to the DC bus 3 at their input 21, 31. The illuminant operating devices 20, 30 have the function of providing the LED current for the LED module 4 connected to their output.

The LED module 4 can be arranged with the lamp operating device 20, 30, for example on a circuit board or with two connected circuit boards, integrated within a common housing. The LED module 4 can be arranged on a common carrier with the lamp operating device 20, 30 assigned to it.

The illuminant operating devices 20, 30 can execute a control or regulating loop in order to set the LED current that is provided to the LED module 4. A lamp operating device 20, 30 or more of the lamp operating devices 20, 30 can each comprise a DC / DC converter 22, 32. The DC / DC converter 22, 32 can be, for example, a buck converter (buck converter), a flyback converter (flyback converter) or another DC / DC converter. A control or regulating circuit of the lamp operating device 20, 30 can switch a controllable switch of the DC / DC converter 22, 32 clocked so that the LED current is controlled or regulated to a setpoint value when the system 1 is operating in order to light to deliver.

The LED module 4 each has a light-emitting diode (LED) or a plurality of LEDs 5. The LEDs 5 can comprise an inorganic light-emitting diode or several inorganic LEDs or one or more organic LEDs (OLEDs). The LEDs of the LED module 4 can be connected in one or more LED sections or in a two-dimensional arrangement.

As will be described in more detail, the central processing unit 10 is set up to generate at least two different voltage levels on the DC bus 3. A first voltage level is generated when the system 1 operates in a normal useful mode, in which the LEDs 5 of the LED modules 4 emit light. A lower second voltage level can be generated, for example, in a standby mode in which the LEDs 5 of the LED modules 4 emit no light or in an emergency light mode in which the light output for an emergency light function is reduced.

At least in the operating state in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced by the central processing unit 10, communication between the central processing unit 10 and a sensor 23, 33 of a lamp operating device 20, 30 and the supply of the sensor 23, 33 with energy done by the central unit 10 over the same line. In the system 1 of Figure 1 At least in the operating state in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced by the central unit 10, the sensor 23, 33 of a lighting device 20, 30 is supplied with energy via the DC bus 3. The voltage level on the DC bus 3 is lowered by the central processing unit 10 in the second operating state to a value that is greater than zero. For example, the voltage level on the DC bus 3 can be reduced by the central processing unit 10 in the second operating state to an input voltage of the sensor 23, 33.

At least in the operating state in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced by the central processing unit 10, unidirectional or bidirectional communication can take place between the central processing unit 10 and the sensor 23, 33 of the lighting device 20, 30 via the DC bus 3 . At least in the second operating state, in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced by the central processing unit 10, the sensor 23, 33 can transmit sensor data to the central processing unit 10 via the DC bus 3. A communication unit 24, 34, which is integrated in the sensor 23, 33 or is connected to the sensor 23, 33, can for this purpose modulate a modulated signal, for example an AC signal, onto the DC bus 3. Data can be encoded, for example, by the frequency, the amplitude and / or the time interval between edges of the AC signal. The AC signal can, for example, have a frequency of at least one kHz or at least one MHz. The data transmitted from the illuminant operating device 20, 30 to the central unit 10 can contain address information which uniquely identifies the sensor, the data of which are transmitted, in the system 1. The data transmitted from the illuminant operating device 20, 30 to the central unit 10 can contain address information included, which uniquely identifies the illuminant operating device from which the data is transmitted in the system 1. The address information can, for example, be contained in a header of a data frame or data packet.

As an alternative or in addition, the central unit 10 can transmit data to a lamp operating device or a plurality of lamp operating devices 20, 30 via the DC bus 3. The data transmitted from the central unit to a lamp operating device 20, 30 can contain a control command. The control command can be, for example, a switch-off command with which one or more of the lamp operating devices 20, 30 are switched off. The control command can be an emergency light command with which an emergency light function for one or more of the illuminant operating devices 20, 30 is activated. The control command can be transmitted from the central unit 10 via the DC bus 3, while the central unit 10 generates a first voltage level on the DC bus 3 for normal use, in which the LED modules 4 emit light and / or during the Central unit 10 keeps the voltage level on the DC bus 3 in a second operating state at a lower value. The data that are transmitted from the central unit 10 via the DC bus 3 can be encoded, for example, by the frequency, the amplitude and / or the time interval between edges of a modulated signal, such as an AC signal. The AC signal can, for example, have a frequency of at least one kHz or at least one MHz. The data transmitted from the central unit 10 to the lamp operating device 20, 30 can contain address information that uniquely identifies one or more of the lamp operating devices 20, 30 that are connected to the central unit 10. The address information can, for example, be contained in a header of a data frame or data packet.

At least one of the illuminant operating devices 20, 30, which are connected to the central unit 10 via the DC bus 3, has a sensor 23, 33. The sensor can be integrated in a housing of the lamp operating device, as is shown for the sensor 23 of the lamp operating device 20. The sensor can also be arranged outside a housing of the lamp operating device, as is shown for the sensor 33 of the lamp operating device 30. The sensor can also be detachably, in particular reversibly detachably, connected to the lamp operating device.

In order to transmit sensor data to the central unit 10, which represent a variable detected by the sensor 23, 33 or depend on a variable detected by the sensor 23, 33, the lighting device 20, 30 can have a communication unit 24, 34. The communication unit can be integrated in the sensor, such as this is shown for the communication unit 24 of the lamp operating device 20. The communication unit can be provided separately from the sensor, as is shown for the communication unit 34 of the lighting device 20. The communication unit 24, 34 is set up to modulate an AC signal to a DC voltage on the DC bus 3. For this purpose, the communication unit 24, 34 can comprise a controllable semiconductor switch which is switched at a switching frequency in order to modulate the AC signal. For bidirectional communication, an illuminant operating device 20, 30 can comprise a demodulator in order to demodulate modulated signals transmitted via the DC bus 3.

The central unit 10 has a communication device 15. The communication device 15 is coupled to a connection 17 of the central unit 10, which is connected to the DC bus 3 during operation. The communication device 15 can have a demodulator in order to demodulate a modulated signal on the DC bus 3 in order to recover the sensor data transmitted by one of the sensors 23, 33. The demodulator can be set up to determine the sensor data and address information that identifies a transmitting sensor by processing the modulated signal. The communication device 15 can comprise a modulator with which, for example, control commands can be transmitted via the DC bus 3.

The central unit 10 can comprise a controller 16 which controls a power factor correction circuit (PFC) and / or a DC / DC converter 13 of the central unit. The controller 16 can control the power factor correction circuit and / or the DC / DC converter 13 depending on the sensor data that have been transmitted via the DC bus 3. The controller 16 can set a control loop parameter depending on the sensor data transmitted via the DC bus 3 while the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced in the second operating state. The controller 16 can control a voltage level on the DC bus 3 depending on the sensor data that was transmitted via the DC bus 3. For example, the voltage level can be reduced to put the system 1 into standby mode if motion sensors have not reported any motion for a certain period of time. The voltage level can be increased in order to wake the system 1 from a standby mode into normal useful operation when a motion sensor detects motion.

The central unit 10 can be configured such that it receives an AC voltage at an input connection 11. The input terminal 11 can be connected to an AC voltage source 2, for example a power line. The central unit 10 can comprise a rectifier and / or a power factor correction circuit 12. The central unit 10 can comprise a DC / DC converter 13 or another converter that provides a potential barrier 14. The potential barrier 14 can be a SELV ("Safety Extra Low Voltage") barrier. The connection 17 of the central unit 10 is connected to the DC bus 3. The DC / DC converter 13 and / or the power factor correction circuit can be controlled in such a way that a desired voltage level is set at the connection 17 for the DC bus 3. In a first operating state, for example normal commercial operation, a first, higher voltage level can be set. In a second operating state, for example a standby mode, the voltage level that is set by the central unit 10 on the DC bus 3 can be reduced.

The illuminant operating devices 20, 30 are connected to the DC bus 3 at their input connection 21, 31. The sensor 23, 33 is coupled to the input connection 21, 31 of the corresponding lamp operating device 20, 30 in order to be supplied with energy via the input connection 21, 31 at least in the second operating state in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced will. The illuminant operating devices 20, 30 can be configured such that in the first operating state, in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is higher, the illuminant operating device 20, 30 detects the sensor 23, 33 via a supply circuit which is connected between the input connection 21, 31 and the corresponding sensor 23, 33 is connected, supplied with energy. Depending on the voltage level of the voltage on the DC bus 3, the illuminant operating device 20, 30 can automatically recognize how the sensor 23, 33 is to be supplied with energy.

Figure 2 shows schematically a bus voltage on the DC bus 3 in a system 1 according to an embodiment. In a period of time 41, the system 1 is in a first operating state, for example normal normal operation, in which the LED modules 4 emit light. The central unit 10 provides an output voltage so that a first voltage level V1 is present on the DC bus 3. In a further period 42-45, the system 1 is in a second operating state, for example in a standby mode. The central unit 10 provides an output voltage with which the DC voltage on the DC bus 3 is set to a second voltage level V2. The second voltage level V2 can correspond to the supply voltage of the sensor 23, 33 of a lighting device 20, 30. If no data is transmitted via the DC bus, as in the time intervals 42, 44, the bus voltage 52, 54 remains at the second voltage level V2 in the second operating state. For data transmission an AC signal 53, 55 can be modulated onto the bus voltage. For example, a communication unit 24, 34 of a lighting device 20, 30 can modulate the AC signals 53, 55. Alternatively or additionally, one of the AC signals 53, 55 can be generated by the communication device 15 of the central unit 10. For example, data can be encoded in the amplitude, the frequency and / or the time interval between edges of the AC signals. The modulated AC signals 53, 55 can contain address information, for example the address information of a sensor or lighting device that sends data to the central unit, or the address information of a sensor or lighting device to which the central unit 10 transmits a control command.

Data can also be transmitted via the DC bus 3 in the first operating state in which the central unit 10 provides an output voltage with which the first voltage level V1 is generated on the DC bus 3.

The mode of operation of central units and illuminant operating devices according to exemplary embodiments is shown in FIG Figure 3 and Figure 4 further described.

Figure 3 10 is a flowchart of a method 60 that can be automatically performed by a central processing unit according to one embodiment. The method 60 may be performed by the central processing unit 10 of the system of Figure 1 or from the central unit 80 of the system of Figure 5 be carried out.

In step 61, the central unit 10 generates a DC supply voltage with a first voltage level, which is provided on the DC bus 3 for operating the lamp. One or more illuminant operating devices can each supply an LED module 4 assigned to them with an LED current, so that the LED module 4 emits light.

In step 62 it is checked whether a second operating state, for example a standby mode, is to be activated. If normal utility operation is to be continued, the method returns to step 61. If the second operating state is maintained, the method continues with step 63.

In step 63, the central unit 10 reduces the voltage level on the DC bus 3. An output voltage of the central unit 10 can be reduced in such a way that the voltage level on the DC bus is reduced to a supply voltage of the sensor 23, 33 of a lighting device 20, 30.

In step 64, communication takes place between the sensor 23, 33 of a lamp operating device 20, 30 and the central unit 10 via the line via which the sensor 23, 33 is supplied with energy in the second operating state. This can be the DC bus 3, as for the system of Figure 1 and Figure 2 or a single wire bus as for the system of Figure 5 to Figure 7 will be described. The communication between the sensor 23, 33 and the central unit 10 via the supply line can be carried out at least until the second operating state is ended.

Figure 4 10 is a flowchart of a method 70 that may be automatically performed by a lighting device device according to an embodiment. The method 70 can be performed by the lamp operating device 20, 30 of the system of Figure 1 or from the illuminant operating device 81 of the system from Figure 5 be carried out.

In step 71, the lamp operating device receives a DC supply voltage with a first voltage level at the input connection, which is connected to the DC bus 3. The lamp operating device generates an LED current which is provided to the LED module so that the LED module emits light. In the first operating state, in which the first voltage level is present at the input connection, a sensor of the illuminant operating device can be supplied with energy, for example, via a supply circuit connected between the input connection and the sensor. The supply circuit can provide a voltage to the sensor that is lower than the voltage present at the input connection of the lamp operating device.

In step 72, it is checked whether a voltage level that is lower than the first voltage level is present on the DC bus. The reduced voltage level indicates that a second operating state, for example a standby mode or an emergency lighting mode, is to be activated. If no reduced voltage level is detected on the DC bus, the method returns to step 71. If a reduced voltage level is detected on the DC bus, the process continues at step 73.

In step 73, the illuminant operating device activates a second operating state, for example a standby mode. For this purpose, the sensor 23, 33 can be electrically conductively connected to the input connection of the lamp operating device in order to be supplied with energy by the central unit 10 via the DC bus 3. To activate In standby mode, a setpoint value of the LED current can be reduced to zero and the control of a DC / DC converter 22, 32 can be adapted accordingly.

In step 74, communication takes place between the sensor of the lighting device and the central unit 10 via the line via which the sensor is supplied with energy in the second operating state. This can be the DC bus 3, as for the system of Figure 1 and Figure 2 or a single wire bus as for the system of Figure 5 to Figure 7 will be described. The communication between the sensor 23, 33 and the central unit 10 via the supply line can be carried out at least until the second operating state is ended.

Figure 5 shows a system 1 according to a further exemplary embodiment, which comprises a central unit 80 and a lamp operating device 81. Even if in Figure 5 Only one illuminant operating device 81 is shown, several such illuminant operating devices 81 can be connected to one DC bus 3. As an alternative or in addition, at least one lighting device 20, 30, as described with reference to FIG Figure 1 has been described, be connected to the DC bus 3.

With system 1 of Figure 5 takes place in the second operating state, in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced, the power supply of the sensor and the data communication between the central unit 80 and the sensor 23 via a single-wire bus 85, which is different from the DC bus 3 .

The central processing unit 80 has a connection 84 which is connected to the single-wire bus 85. The illuminant operating device 81 has a connection 86 which is connected to the single-wire bus 85. At least in a second operating state, in which the voltage level on the DC bus 3 is reduced, current can be supplied to the sensor 23 of the lighting device 81 via the single-wire bus 85. In addition, unidirectional or bidirectional data transmission between the sensor 23 and the central unit 80 can take place via the single-wire bus 85. For example, a communication unit 24 of the lighting device 81 can be set up to change a potential between the single-wire bus 85 relative to a reference potential P0 so that a modulated AC signal is generated.

The central unit 80 has a bus connection 82 for connection to the DC bus 3. The illuminant operating device 81 has a bus connection 83 for connection to the DC bus 3. In a first operating state, for example a normal one In commercial operation, in which the LED module 4 emits light, the central unit 80 can set a first voltage level on the DC bus 3. In a second operating state, for example a standby mode, the central unit 80 can reduce the voltage level on the DC bus 3 compared to the first operating state. While the system 1 is in the first operating state, the energy supply of the sensor 23 can take place either via the DC bus 3 or via the single-wire bus 85. In the second operating state, the system of Figure 5 the voltage on the DC bus can be reduced to zero. The power supply of the sensor 23 takes place via the single-wire bus 85. The transmission of data, which include control commands, from the central unit 80 to the illuminant operating device 81 can also take place via the single-wire bus 85.

Figure 6 shows the voltage on the DC bus in system 1 of Figure 5 . In a period of time 41, the system 1 is in a first operating state, for example normal normal operation, in which the LED modules 4 emit light. The central unit 80 provides an output voltage at the bus connection 82, so that a first voltage level V1 is present on the DC bus 3. In a further period 42-45, the system 1 is in a second operating state, for example in a standby mode. The DC bus 3 can be switched off in the second operating state. The voltage level can be reduced to a voltage of 0 V.

Figure 7 shows the potential difference Vdata between the potential on the single-wire bus 85 and a reference potential P0. For data transmission, for example, modulated signals, such as modulated voltage signals, can be generated in order to transmit sensor data from the lamp operating device 81 to the central unit 80 and / or to transmit data with control commands from the central unit 80 to the lamp operating device 81. The voltage between the potential on the single-wire bus 85 and the reference potential P0 can have a modulated signal, for example a modulated AC signal 93, 95. The AC signal 93, 95 can be generated by a communication unit 24 of the lighting device 81 on the single-wire bus 85. If no data packet or data frame is transmitted, the potential 92, 94 on the single-wire bus 85 can be kept constant. For example, data can be encoded in the amplitude, the frequency and / or the time interval between edges of the AC signals. The modulated AC signals 93, 95 can contain address information, for example the address information of a sensor or lamp operating device that sends data to the central unit, or the address information of a sensor or lamp operating device to which the central unit 10 transmits a control command.

The central unit can have a demodulator and / or a modulator, depending on whether unidirectional or bidirectional communication is to take place via the supply line via which the sensor of the illuminant operating device is supplied with energy by the central unit in the second operating state. Correspondingly, the illuminant operating device can have a modulator and / or a demodulator.

Figure 8 schematically shows the components of a central processing unit 100 and a lamp operating device 110 for data transmission in a system according to an exemplary embodiment. Central processing unit 100, like central processing unit 10 of the system of FIG Figure 1 or as the central unit 80 of the system of Figure 5 be designed. The lamp operating device 110, like the lamp operating device 20, 30 of the system of FIG Figure 1 or as the illuminant operating device 81 of the system from Figure 5 be designed. The central unit 100 and the illuminant operating device 110 are connected via a line 120, via which at least in the second operating state a sensor of the illuminant operating device 110 is supplied with energy by the central unit 100. The line 120 can be a DC bus 3 or a single-wire bus 85.

A communication device 102 of the central unit 100 can have a demodulator 103. A communication unit 112 of the lamp operating device 110 can have a modulator 114. In order to transmit sensor data to the central unit 100, the modulator 114 of the lighting device 110 can modulate an AC signal on the line 120. The modulated signal can be transmitted via the line 120 via a corresponding connection 111, via which the sensor of the lamp operating device 110 is supplied with energy at least in the second operating state. The central unit can receive the modulated signal at a connection 101. The demodulator 103 can determine the transmitted data by processing the modulated signal. The transmitted data can include sensor data that depend on a variable detected with the sensor, and optionally also address information that uniquely identifies the sensor or the lamp operating device 110.

For the transmission of data, which can include a control command, the communication device 102 of the central unit 100 can have a modulator 104. The communication unit 112 of the illuminant operating device 110 can have a demodulator 113. The modulator 104 can generate a modulated signal that is transmitted over the line 120. The modulated signal can be dependent on address information of the receiving lamp operating device 110 are generated. The modulated signal can be generated in such a way that the transmitted data contain a control command. The demodulator 113 of the lamp operating device 110 can determine the transmitted data by processing the modulated signal.

While exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to the figures, modifications can be used in further exemplary embodiments. For example, one illuminant operating device or several illuminant operating devices, the sensor of which communicates with the central unit via the DC bus (as with reference to FIG Figure 1 and Figure 2 described) are combined with one or more illuminant operating devices, the sensor of which communicates with the central unit in standby mode via a single-wire bus that is different from the DC bus (as in reference to Figure 5 to Figure 7 described).

At least one of the illuminant operating devices can have two or more sensors which are supplied with energy by the central unit at least in standby mode via the same line and transmit sensor data to the central unit.

The central unit can also supply one or more illuminant operating devices via the DC bus which have no sensor and / or which do not transmit sensor data to the central unit via the supply line. In one system, illuminant operating devices according to exemplary embodiments that communicate with the central unit at least in a standby mode via a supply line for the sensor can be combined with illuminant operating devices that have no sensor and / or that do not provide for communication between the illuminant operating device and the central unit a supply line is set up.

A sensor can communicate via the supply line, with which the sensor is supplied with energy in standby mode, not only as communication with a central unit, but also between lamp operating devices.

Devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments can be used, in particular, for the operation of illuminants which comprise LEDs, without being restricted thereto.

Claims (14)

1. A method for communication between a central unit (10; 80; 100) and a lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110), which has a sensor (23, 33),
   wherein the central unit (10; 80; 100) generates a DC supply voltage (51) for the supply of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110), which is provided on a DC bus (3),
   wherein data are transferred between the central unit (10; 80; 100) and the sensor (23, 33) of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) by means of a line (3; 85), by means of which the central unit (10; 80; 100) supplies the sensor (23, 33) of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) with energy,
   characterized in that
   the central unit (10; 80; 100) in a first operating state generates a voltage level (51) on the DC bus (3) and in a second operating state reduces the voltage level (52; 56) on the DC bus (3) compared with the first operating state, and
   the central unit (10; 80; 100) is coupled via the DC bus (3) with the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) and the sensor (23, 33).
2. The method according to Claim 1,
   wherein the data comprise sensor data, which in the second operating state are transferred from the sensor (23, 33) to the central unit (10; 80; 100).
3. The method according to Claim 2,
   wherein in the second operating state the sensor (23, 33) transfers the sensor data via the DC bus (3) to the central unit (10; 100).
4. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 3,
   wherein the second operating state is a standby mode.
5. The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 4,
   wherein the data are transferred in the second operating state, in which the voltage level (52; 56) is reduced on the DC bus (3).
6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims,
   wherein the central unit (10; 80; 100) comprises a power factor correction circuit (12).
7. A central unit for the supply of lighting means operating devices (20, 30; 81; 110),
   wherein the central unit (10; 80; 100) is configured, in order to generate a DC supply voltage (51) for the supply of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110), which is provided on a DC bus (3), wherein the central unit (10; 80; 100) comprises
   a connection (17; 84) for the supply of a sensor (23, 33) of a lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) with energy, and
   a communication device (15; 102), which is coupled with the connection (17; 84) and which is configured, in order to receive and/or to send data to be transferred between the central unit (10; 80; 100) and the sensor (23, 33) of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) via the connection (17; 84),
   wherein the connection (17) is configured for a coupling with a DC bus (3) for the coupling of the central unit (10; 80; 100) with the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) and the sensor (23, 33) via the DC bus (3),
   characterized in that
   the central unit (10; 80; 100) is configured, in order to generate in a first operating state a voltage level (51) on the DC bus (3) and in a second operating state to reduce the voltage level (52; 56) compared with the first operating state,
   wherein the communications device (15; 102) is configured, in order to receive sensor data in the second operating state from the sensor (23, 33) at the connection (17).
8. The central unit according to Claim 7,
   wherein he communications device (15; 102) is configured, in order to receive sensor data from the sensor (23, 33) of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) via the connection (17; 84).
9. The central unit according to Claim 7 or Claim 8, comprising
   a bus connection (82) different from the connection (84), which bus connection is configured for a coupling with a DC bus (3),
   wherein the connection (84) is configured for a coupling with a line (85) different from the DC bus (3), and
   wherein the central unit (10; 80; 100) is configured, in order to supply the sensor (23, 33) with energy via the line (85) different from the DC bus (3) in the second operating state, in which a voltage level (52, 56) is reduced on the DC bus (3).
10. The central unit according to any one of Claims 7 to 9,
    wherein the communications device (15; 102) comprises a demodulator (103) for demodulating a modulated signal (52, 55; 92, 95) received at the connection (17; 84) and/or a modulator (104) for generating a control command.
11. A lighting means operating device for a lighting means, in particular, for an LED module (4), which is configured, in order to receive a DC supply voltage (51) from a central unit (10; 80; 100) via a DC bus (3) and to supply the lighting means (4) with energy, comprising
    a sensor (23, 33),
    a connection (21, 31; 86) for an energy supply of the sensor (23, 33), and
    a communications unit (24, 34; 111), which is coupled with the sensor (23, 33) and which is configured, in order to send and/or to receive data to be transferred between the sensor (23, 33) of the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) and the central unit (10; 80; 100) via the connection (21, 31; 86),
    wherein the connection (21, 31) is configured for a coupling with a DC bus (3) for the coupling of the central unit (10; 80; 100) with the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 110) and the sensor (23, 33) via the DC bus (3),
    characterized in that
    the lighting means operating device (20, 30; 110) is configured, in order to supply the lighting means with energy in a first operating state, if a first voltage level (51) is present on the DC bus (3), and in order to supply the sensor (23, 33) with energy in a second operating state, if the voltage level (52) on he DC bus (3) is reduced,
    wherein the communications unit (24, 34; 111) is configured, in order to transfer sensor data in the second operating state from the sensor (23, 33) via the connection (21, 31).
12. The lighting means operating device according to Claim 11, comprising
    a bus connection (83) different from the connection (84), which is configured for a coupling with the DC bus (3),
    wherein the connection (84) is configured for a coupling with a line (85) different from the DC bus (3), and
    wherein the sensor (23, 33) is configured, in order to be supplied with energy in the second operating state via the line (85) different from the DC bus (3).
13. The lighting means operating device according to Claim 11 or 12,
    wherein the communications unit (15; 111) comprises a modulator (114) for the generation of a modulated signal (52, 54; 92, 94) dependent on an output signal of the sensor (23, 33) and/or a demodulator (113) for demodulating a modulated signal (52, 54; 92, 94) received at the connection (21, 31; 84).
14. A system, comprising
    a central unit (10; 80; 100) according to any one of Claims 7 to 10,
    at least one lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110) according to any one of Claims 11 to 13,
    at least one LEC module (4), which is connected with the at least one lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110), and
    a DC bus (3), which is connected with the central unit (10; 80; 100) and the at least one lighting means operating device (20, 30; 81; 110).

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