EP3075213B1 - Led module - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an LED module, an LED converter, and methods that make it possible to transmit operating parameters of the LED module to the LED converter without a specific communication line between LED module and LED converter.

Several approaches are already known from the prior art to specify an LED converter operating parameters for a connected LED module. This is necessary, for example, because different forward currents are necessary for different LED modules in order to make the LED sections of the LED modules glow. Operating parameters are, for example, a required forward current or a desired or forward voltage to be applied.

A known from the prior art approach is to adjust the LED converter via dip-switches or resistors to set the operating parameters for the connected LED module. However, this requires interaction with the LED converter.

In another approach, configuration resistors on the LED module are used to give the LED converter the required operating parameters. However, on the one hand additional connections are necessary, on the other hand an interaction is necessary.

It is also known to transmit the necessary operating parameters to the LED converter via a separate digital signal channel. However, additional components have to be installed and an interaction is necessary.

Finally, it is also known to assign the LED module, for example, an EPROM, from which the LED converter can determine information regarding the operating parameters to be set on the LED module.

However, the prior art approaches all either require interaction with the LED converter or the LED module, or require additional terminals or components. This increases the cost of the LED module and / or the LED converter. In addition, more space is needed for the components, which prevents a more compact design.

From the publication WO 2010/092504 A1 For example, a lighting system and an LED-based lighting system and a corresponding converter are known. The converter is designed so that the load of a connected LED system is detected at its supply terminals and this is used as detection information for the operation of the LED system.

From the DE 10 2012 008 499 A1 For example, a device is known that is configurable to use different bulbs in which a resistance on a secondary side of the device is selectable. During operation, a resistance-dependent measured variable is detected on the primary side in order to detect a configuration determined by the resistance. In a further operating phase, the device is then controlled depending on the detected fixed configuration.

The object of the present invention is to improve the known state of the art, especially with regard to the abovementioned disadvantages. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an LED converter information eg. Regarding operating parameters of an LED module (back), without additional components or connections, or an interaction are necessary. It is therefore an object of the present invention to produce a LED module and a LED converter more cost-effective and to build more compact.

The objects of the present invention are solved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims further advantageously form the core idea of the invention.

The invention relates to a system in which information can be transmitted to the LED converter through a generated load or load changes of the LED module. For example, according to the present invention, information may be transmitted to the LED converter through a generated load or load changes of the LED module in a preferably timed startup phase. Alternatively or additionally, according to the present invention, information can be exchanged between the LED converter and the LED module by means of bidirectional communication, wherein preferably the communication from the LED module is transmitted by a generated load or load changes of the LED module.

The present invention takes advantage of the fact that to operate an LED module, in particular to bring a LED track of the LED module to light, a certain forward voltage to the LED track, ie a certain supply voltage to the LED module is necessary ,

Below the forward voltage, the LED path blocks. The LED path is thus non-conductive and represents an almost infinite resistance for the LED converter. Only at or above the forward voltage does the LED track represent an active power load for the LED converter. A supply voltage at an LED track, the is not equal to zero but below the forward voltage, defines a voltage window in which the LED path is not yet conductive. This voltage window is used by the present invention to communicate information to the LED converter through generated load or load changes of the LED module

The present invention relates to an LED module comprising:
Connections for an LED track, a circuit which is designed to represent a load, preferably an active power load, when a first non-zero supply voltage is applied to the LED module, in which a connected LED track is not conductive, and the is designed to represent no load when a second supply voltage is equal to zero applied to the LED module, in which a connected LED line is conductive. The load for the voltage window (readout window), in which the LED track is not conductive, causes a power consumption of the LED module.

For example, in a preferably temporary start phase, a circuit which is designed to represent a load, preferably an active power load, can be activated. After expiration of the preferably limited time start phase, the circuit may be configured to represent no load. The load for the preferably limited start phase causes a power consumption of the LED module.

An example not according to the invention relates to an LED module comprising: terminals for an LED track, a circuit configured to represent a load, preferably an active power load, when a first non-zero supply current is supplied to the LED module, and which is designed to represent no load when a second supply current is not equal to the first Supply current is supplied to the LED module or when a preferably limited time start phase has expired. The load for the voltage window (readout window), in which the LED track is not conductive, causes a power consumption of the LED module.

The power consumption can be detected by an LED converter and can determine parameters of the LED module based on the detected power consumption. For example, based on stored tables, the LED converter may infer the operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module to be set from the detected power consumption.

In one embodiment, the circuit is preferably configured to be activated each time a supply voltage is applied to the LED module. Furthermore, the circuit is designed to automatically deactivate itself when a preferably temporary start phase has expired or ended. Thus, there is no power loss in the permanent lighting operation of the LED track. To operate the circuit, no additional connections are needed. The circuit may be integrated with the LED module and need not be provided as a separate component. The circuit works automatically after applying a supply voltage, ie a start-up phase, therefore no additional interaction must be carried out.

In one embodiment, the circuit is preferably configured to be activated each time a supply voltage between zero and the forward voltage of the LED path is applied to the LED module. Furthermore, the circuit is designed to automatically deactivate itself when the applied supply voltage reaches or exceeds the forward voltage of the connected LED route. Thus, no power loss is present in the lighting operation of the LED track. To operate the circuit, no additional connections are needed. The circuit may be integrated with the LED module and need not be provided as a separate component.

The circuit works automatically according to the applied supply voltage, so there is no need for additional interaction.

As an alternative to applying a supply voltage having a value between zero and the forward voltage of the LED path, it is also not possible according to the invention for activating the circuit to feed a predetermined supply current into the LED path in order to activate the circuit on the LED path. For example, the LED converter may output the nominally minimum output current according to its specification, or a low minimum current value that assures that the LED module will not be overloaded. In this case, the circuit is designed to automatically disable itself, for example, when the supplied supply current reaches or exceeds the rated current of the connected LED route or when a preferably limited time start phase has expired.

The circuit is configured to represent a current variable load that causes a change in the power consumption of the LED module according to at least one predetermined protocol.

By a variable power consumption, ie a load change of the LED module in the read window, more complex information can be displayed. The circuit is preferably designed to code at least one operating and / or maintenance parameter of the LED module by changing the power consumption according to the at least one predetermined protocol.

Additionally or alternatively, the circuit on the LED module can also be designed so that it is preferably activated only in a limited time start phase of the LED module.

An LED converter can detect the change in the power consumption of the LED module and decode according to the at least one protocol that is stored, for example, in the LED converter. Thus, a communication path from the LED module to the LED converter is made possible without additional lines or pins. Operating parameters of the LED module can be, for example, the forward current of an LED segment of the LED module, the corresponding forward voltage of the LED segment, a nominal current of the LED module, or a spectrum of the light emitted by the LED segment. Maintenance parameters may be, for example, aging parameters of the LED module or the LED route, an operating time duration of the LED module, or a temperature at the LED module.

Preferably, the at least one predetermined protocol specifies a frequency and / or an amplitude and / or a duty cycle of the change in the power consumption of the LED module.

The at least one protocol can thus be coded in many ways, namely with regard to a frequency of the power consumption, an amplitude, and a switch-on timing. This allows complex information to be encoded. Several different coded protocols can also be used.

In a non-inventive example, the circuit is designed such that the change in the power consumption of the LED module is independent of a value of the first supply voltage.

The circuit on the LED module thus reproduces the coding parameters (eg amplitude, frequency, duty cycle of the load change) in the read window (ie supply voltage not equal to zero but below the forward voltage of the LED path) independently of the supply voltage.

As a result, no exact, but only a constant voltage specification must be set in this readout window of the supply voltage.

According to the invention, the circuit is designed such that the change in the power consumption of the LED module is effected as a function of a value of the first supply voltage in accordance with one of a plurality of predetermined protocols.

According to the embodiment of the invention, when a supply voltage is applied in the readout window, the same feedback information is not always transmitted to an LED converter which is connected to the LED module as described above. Rather, the voltage range of the supply voltage, in which a connected LED path is not yet conductive, divided into several sub-areas. Each sub-area may be subject to another given protocol. This means that a different change in power consumption can occur in each subrange (i.e., different in the frequency of the power consumption change, the amplitude of the power consumption change, or the duty cycle, depending on the applied supply voltage). This allows different information to be transmitted back to the LED converter. In this case, more complex protocols are conceivable, for example, the modulation of the supply voltage, a selective switching on and off of the supply voltage between zero and a voltage in the read window, etc. include. In order to subdivide the range of information transmission even further, frequency modulation, amplitude modulation or PWM of the supply voltage are conceivable.

Preferably, the circuit includes a timer circuit configured to set a frequency of change in the power consumption of the LED module. The timer circuit thus specifies the frequency of the load change of the LED module.

Preferably, the circuit is integrated in a semiconductor material of the LED module. This allows the circuit to be made particularly space-saving and inexpensive.

Advantageously, at least one sensor is provided on the LED module, which is designed to influence an electrical parameter of the circuit.

The at least one sensor may e.g. a sensor or a combination of multiple sensors, which may be light sensors, temperature sensors, color sensors, etc. The influenced electrical parameter of the circuit on the LED module may be, for example, a resistance value or a conductivity.

Preferably, the at least one sensor is a light sensor with light-dependent resistance and the light sensor is connected to the circuit such that a change in the light-dependent resistor changes the load resistance of the circuit.

A light sensor with light-dependent resistance (ie a "light dependent resistor") is easy to implement. A light output that falls on this resistor directly affects its resistance value and thus also in the readout window the active power load of the circuit.
The present invention further relates to an LED converter for an LED module as described above, which is adapted to a power consumption of the LED module for a voltage applied to the LED module first supply voltage, wherein an LED connected to the LED module Is not conductive to detect and determine based on the detected power consumption at least one operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module.

Due to the detected power consumption, the necessary information is transmitted to the LED converter to determine the operating and / or maintenance parameters. For example, the LED converter may determine these parameters based on one or more stored or stored tables Operational and / or maintenance parameters correlate with constant or varying power consumption within the readout window.

The LED converter is preferably designed to use the at least one specific operating and / or maintenance parameter: to set or regulate the operation of the LED module, store it in an allocated memory, visually and / or audibly indicate it, and / or via to send a wireless or wired interface, if necessary, to an external request.

The LED converter is thus suitable for comprehensively controlling the LED module. For this purpose, no separate communication path or additional lines or pins are required between the LED module and the LED converter. The information transmission, e.g. the transmission of the operating and / or maintenance parameters, via the existing anyway connections for the supply voltage.

Advantageously, the at least one operating and / or maintenance parameter is a desired current through an LED track connected to the LED module, an aging parameter, an operating time duration, and / or a spectrum of a light emitted by the LED track.

Advantageously, the LED converter is configured to identify the LED module based on the least one particular operating and / or maintenance parameter.

The identification can be carried out, for example, based on one or more stored tables. If the LED converter has identified the LED module, further information can be stored in the one or more tables which allow comprehensive control of the LED module. In particular, a forward current of the LED path of the LED module is advantageous as stored information.

Advantageously, the LED converter is designed, by changing the supply voltage of the LED module, for example via a pulse or amplitude modulation of the supply voltage to signal the LED module, selectively in a mode for changing the power consumption of the LED module ( Load change). The modulation of the supply voltage can take different patterns or values, whereby a targeted selection of individual LED modules can be made possible when an LED converter supplies several LED modules. The respective selected in this way LED module can then selectively switch to the mode of load change to transmit information to the LED converter. The plurality of LED modules may be arranged in series connection or parallel connection. The LED converter may be configured to interrogate various types of information from the LED module (s) by changing the supply voltage, for example via pulse or amplitude modulation of the supply voltage, depending on the particular pattern or value. In the LED module, various tables can be stored for the feedback of the various information.

For example, the LED converter is configured by selectively setting a first supply voltage or a second supply voltage for the LED module, selectively between a mode for detecting a power consumption of the LED module and a mode for lighting operation of a LED module connected to the LED module. Change track.

The first supply voltage is a voltage in the readout window, that is, a supply voltage between zero and a forward voltage at which the connected LED path is not yet conductive. The second supply voltage is a voltage above the forward voltage at which the connected LED line is conductive, preferably lights. The LED converter is thus automatically set based on the set supply voltage in the appropriate mode. A detection of the power consumption takes place only in the aforementioned detection mode.

This makes it possible to turn off detection circuits of the converter in lighting mode and save energy. An interaction with the LED converter from the outside is not necessary for changing the mode.

Preferably, the LED converter is adapted to perform a current measurement for directly detecting the power consumption of the LED module.

Alternatively, the LED converter is designed to perform an indirect detection of the power consumption of the LED module.

Preferably, the LED converter is adapted to detect a change in the power consumption of the LED module by changing a duty cycle of a clock of the LED converter, for example a buck converter (also called buck converter) or an isolated flyback converter (flyback converter).

Depending on the control concept for an LED module, the LED converter may also detect a change in the peak current in the LED converter in, for example, an isolated converter, preferably an isolated flyback converter.

Not according to the invention, the LED converter is designed to discharge a capacitor via a load of the LED module, to determine a discharge current of the capacitor directly, or indirectly via a discharge time and based on at least one operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module to determine on this discharge current.

In particular, this embodiment of the LED converter is used for the example of a current-constant load LED module in the region of the supply voltage read-out window. A capacitor in the LED converter is discharged, for example, via a constant current sink on the LED module, wherein the thereby flowing discharge current can be measured directly or indirectly via a discharge rate (negative slope) of the voltage of the capacitor.

The directly or indirectly detected discharge current can then be interpreted by the LED converter with regard to the operating and / or maintenance parameter. The information about the operating and / or maintenance parameter is thus encoded in the slope of the voltage that the LED converter outputs when the capacitor is discharged. The measurement of the discharge rate eliminates the dependence on the absolute supply voltage. It is also conceivable to detect the discharge current over the discharge duration of the capacitor. For this purpose, the LED converter further still the information about the absolute voltage at the beginning and at the end of the measurement, i. the discharge of the capacitor, be present or returned.

The present invention further relates to an LED lamp comprising an LED module as described above and an LED converter as also described above.

The present invention also relates to a method for determining information relating to an LED module on an LED converter, comprising: detecting a power consumption of the LED module for a first supply voltage applied to the LED module, in which one to the LED module Module connected LED track is not conductive, and determine of at least one operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module based on the detected power consumption.

The method for determining information regarding an LED module on an LED converter relates to an LED converter comprising a high-frequency clocked converter with a transformer and further comprises detecting a power consumption of the LED module on the primary side of the transformer of the high-frequency clocked converter, wherein a circuit on the LED module causes a modulated load change at least during a start-up phase, and determining at least one operating and / or maintenance parameter of the LED module based on the detected power consumption.

Overall, the present invention allows information to be set to an LED module operating and / or maintenance parameters to transmit to an LED converter. No further connections or connection between LED converter and LED module are necessary. There is no further component except a, advantageously in a semiconductor material of the LED module integrated load modulation circuit necessary. There is no need for additional interaction with the LED module or the LED converter for transmitting the information. The present invention thus enables a simpler control of an LED module, and a cheaper and more compact production of LED module and / or LED converter.

The method for determining information relating to an LED module to an LED converter further comprises detecting a power consumption of the LED module, wherein a circuit on the LED module, at least during a start-up phase, a modulated load change and determining at least one operating and / or maintenance parameter of the LED module based on the detected power consumption.

Fig. 1

zeigt schematisch das Grundprinzip der vorliegenden Erfindung anhand einer erfindungsgemäßen LED-Leuchte (bestehend aus einem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul und einem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Konverters).

Fig. 2

zeigt eine Stromspannungskennlinie einer LED-Strecke und das erfindungsgemäße Auslesefenster.

Fig. 3

zeigt einen Schaltkreis, der eine automatische Deaktivierung der Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul ermöglicht.

Fig. 4

zeigt ein nicht erfindungsgemäßes Beispiel der Schaltung auf dem LED-Modul, die eine stromkonstante Last darstellt.

Fig. 5

zeigt schematisch die Erfassung einer stromkonstanten Last auf dem nicht erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul durch einen LED-Konverter.

Fig. 6

zeigt eine Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul, die eine stromveränderliche Last darstellt und insbesondere eine Frequenz der Änderung der Leistungsaufnahme des erfindungsgemäßen LED-Moduls einstellt.

Fig. 7

zeigt wie eine Änderung der Leistungsaufnahme des erfindungsgemäßen LED-Moduls an einem Buck-Konverter als Beispiel eines erfindungsgemäßen LED-Konverters gemessen werden kann.

Fig. 8

zeigt wie eine Änderung des Stroms durch die Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul mit dem Strom in einem Buck-Konverter des erfindungsgemäßen LED-Konverters korreliert

Fig. 9

zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel der Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul

Fig. 10

zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel der Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul

Fig. 11

zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel der Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul

Fig. 12

zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel der Schaltung auf dem erfindungsgemäßen LED-Modul.

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1

schematically shows the basic principle of the present invention with reference to an LED lamp according to the invention (consisting of an LED module according to the invention and an LED converter according to the invention).

Fig. 2

shows a current-voltage characteristic of an LED route and the read-out window according to the invention.

Fig. 3

shows a circuit that allows automatic deactivation of the circuit on the LED module according to the invention.

Fig. 4

shows a non-inventive example of the circuit on the LED module, which represents a current-constant load.

Fig. 5

schematically shows the detection of a current-constant load on the LED module not according to the invention by an LED converter.

Fig. 6

shows a circuit on the LED module according to the invention, which represents a current variable load and in particular sets a frequency of change in power consumption of the LED module according to the invention.

Fig. 7

shows how a change in power consumption of the LED module according to the invention can be measured on a buck converter as an example of an LED converter according to the invention.

Fig. 8

shows how a change in the current through the circuit on the LED module according to the invention correlates with the current in a buck converter of the LED converter according to the invention

Fig. 9

shows another example of the circuit on the LED module according to the invention

Fig. 10

shows another example of the circuit on the LED module according to the invention

Fig. 11

shows another example of the circuit on the LED module according to the invention

Fig. 12

shows another example of the circuit on the LED module according to the invention.

FIG. 1 schematically shows an LED lamp according to the invention, which consists of an LED module 1 according to the invention and an LED converter 10 according to the invention. The LED converter 10 is connected to the LED module 1 via one or more voltage connections 12. The LED converter 10 thus supplies the LED module 1 with a supply voltage. The LED converter 10 may also be designed to operate a plurality of LED modules 1. Preferably, the supply voltage is a DC voltage, but may also be a clocked voltage or AC voltage. The LED converter 10 preferably has a high-frequency clocked converter, for example a buck converter (step-down converter), isolated flyback converter (flyback converter) or a resonant half-bridge converter (preferably isolated, for example an LLC converter). The LED converter 10 may, for example, output a constant output voltage or a constant output current at its voltage terminals 12, the voltage at these terminals corresponding to the supply voltage of the LED module 1.

The supply voltage is applied via one or more terminals 2 of the LED module 1 to at least one connected LED track 3 (this also includes a single LED). The LED track 3 does not have to be part of the LED module 1 according to the invention but can be a connectable and exchangeable LED track 3. The LED module 1 according to the invention thus requires only terminals 2 for at least one LED track 3. The LED track 3 can also be permanently installed with the LED module 1. The LED track 3 may have one or more LEDs, for example, as in FIG. 1 shown connected in series. LEDs of a LED track 3 can all shine the same color, ie emit light of the same wavelength, or shine in different colors.

For example, multiple LEDs, preferably red, green and blue LEDs, may be combined to produce mixed radiation, preferably white light.

The LED track 3, when connected to the terminals 2, connected in parallel with respect to the supply voltage to a circuit 4. The circuit 4 is designed, for example, such that it represents a load, preferably an active power load, for the LED converter 10 when the supply voltage applied to the terminals 12 by the LED converter 10 is not equal to zero, but is still low enough for the to the terminals 2 connected LED track 3 is not yet conductive. The circuit 4 can therefore also be referred to as a load circuit or load modulation circuit.

FIG. 2 shows by way of example a current-voltage characteristic of an LED track 3, in which a current through the LED track in the vertical direction and the voltage at the LED track (ie the supply voltage in FIG. 1 ) is applied in the horizontal direction. For a first voltage range (ie a first supply voltage 5a within the readout window), the voltage across the LED path 3 is not equal to zero, but the current through the LED path 3 is also almost zero, since the LED path 3 is not conducting , The supply voltage is thus below the forward voltage. The LED track 3 represents an infinite load for the LED converter 10. The LED module 1 thus absorbs no power via the LED track 3. In a second voltage range (ie for a second supply voltage 5b outside the readout window), the LED track 3 becomes conductive and a current flows through the LED track 3, which lights up the latter. The supply voltage is thus above the forward voltage.

The circuit 4 on the LED module 1 is designed, for example, so that it is activated when the first supply voltage 5a is applied, and thereby represents a load, preferably an effective power load, for the LED converter 10. For the second supply voltage 5b, ie in the luminous operation of the LED track 3, the circuit 4 is deactivated and does not represent a load for the LED converter.

This is in FIG. 1 represented schematically by the switch 6, which automatically activates or deactivates the circuit 4 depending on the applied supply voltage. The circuit 4 is not according to the invention a current-constant load and according to the invention a current variable load for the LED converter 10. The circuit 4 causes a power consumption of the LED module 1, although an LED track 3 is not conductive and does not absorb power. A conventional LED module 1 would not record power in the readout window. Additionally or alternatively, the circuit 4 on the LED module 1 may also be designed so that it is activated only in a limited startup phase of the LED module 1.

The power consumption of the LED module 1 in the readout window can be current-constant or current-variable depending on the type of circuit 4. The LED converter 10 can detect the power consumption of the LED module 1 or a change in the power consumption of the LED module 1 and close based on the detected power consumption to be set operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module 1. The LED converter 10 can use the operating and / or maintenance parameters directly for setting or regulation of the LED module 1. The LED converter 10 can store the operating and / or maintenance parameters but also in a memory associated with it and optionally later use, or visually and / or acoustically display the parameters to a user, or they to another device, such as a control unit of a lighting system , send. The transmission can be either wireless or wired and can be done either automatically or only upon request from the other device.

For operating an LED module 1 by the LED converter 1 of the present invention, various operations can be performed in a preferably temporary start phase of the LED lamp. First, the LED converter 10 supplies the LED module 1, for example, with a constant supply voltage, preferably a constant DC voltage. For example, the LED converter 10 can be operated with reduced compared to the normal operation duty cycle, whereby a lower output voltage is reached. The supply voltage is a first supply voltage 5a, ie it is located in the read window, the in FIG. 2 is shown. Since the first supply voltage 5a is not equal to zero, the circuit 4 is activated on the LED module 1 and represents a load for the LED converter 10. The load is preferably an active power load and generates a power consumption of the LED module 1. Now For example, the LED converter 10 measures a discharging current of a capacitor through this load, an absolute current consumption of the circuit 4, a frequency of a change in the power consumption of the LED module 1, or a duty ratio or an amplitude of a power consumption change. Based on the result of the measurement, the LED converter 10 can conclude operating and / or maintenance parameters. For example, the LED converter 10 may determine a desired or forward voltage or a desired current of the LED module and apply this to the LED module 1. Thus, a connected LED track 3 is conductive and the LED converter 10 operates the LED module 1 in the lighting mode. Preferably, the circuit 4 is now automatically deactivated. The circuit 4 does not absorb any power in the luminous operation of the LED track 3 and therefore does not affect the lighting operation of the LED track 3. The LED converter 10 of the LED lamp has thus automatically detected the LED module 1 and set the appropriate operating parameters ,

Alternatively or additionally, readout of the LED module 1 by the LED converter 10 can be limited in time by the circuit 4 is active only during a startup phase due to a predetermined period of time, as soon as a supply voltage to the LED module 1 is applied. In this case, this supply voltage can also correspond to the nominal output voltage of the LED converter 10 for normal operation. After applying the supply voltage, the circuit 4 is activated on the LED module 1 and represents a load for the LED converter 10. The load is preferably a repeatedly changing active power load and generates a power consumption of the LED module 1. In addition, in In this case, the connected LED section 3 become conductive, whereby the LED converter 10 operates the LED module 1 in the lighting mode.

Now, the LED converter 10 may measure, for example, a discharging current of a capacitor through this load, an absolute current consumption of the circuit 4, a frequency of a change in the power consumption of the LED module 1, or a duty ratio or an amplitude of a power consumption change. Based on the result of the measurement, the LED converter 10 can conclude operating and / or maintenance parameters. For example, the LED converter 10 may determine a desired or forward voltage or a desired current of the LED module and apply this to the LED module 1. Preferably, the circuit 4 is then automatically deactivated after the predetermined period for the start phase. The specification of this time period for the start phase can be determined for example by a time charge circuit, wherein a timer capacitor is charged and after the charging of the timer capacitor, the circuit 4 is deactivated. As a result, the circuit 4 does not absorb any power in the continuous lighting operation of the LED track 3 and therefore does not influence the lighting operation of the LED track 3.

FIG. 3 shows a circuit that is at least part of the circuit 4 to automatically disable them when the supply voltage is in the range of the second supply voltage 5b, that is above the forward voltage of the LED track 3. The circuit 4 can be deactivated by means of the transistors M4 and M3. With increasing supply voltage, which is provided by the LED converter 10 and applied to the circuit 4 on the LED module 1, and the voltage across the resistor R8 increases. When this voltage reaches a threshold voltage of the transistor M4, it closes and also turns off the transistor M3 by setting the gate voltage of the transistor M3 to ground. The threshold voltage may be, for example, 1.4 volts (at a voltage of 12.5 volts) of the LED converter 10). In order to reduce losses of the voltage divider R8 and R10, the resistance values should be high, preferably in the range of 20 to 200 kΩ, more preferably in the range of 40 to 100 kΩ. In addition, it is important that transistor M3 be configured to withstand the maximum supply voltage that LED converter 10 can provide and that the voltage across resistor R8 not exceed the maximum allowable gate voltage of transistor M4 during normal lighting operation exceeds the LED range 3. Alternatively or optinoally, this circuit can be designed, for example, by means of an RC element so that it deactivates after a predetermined start time (this time corresponds to the start phase) by deactivating the transistor M3 depending on it, ie opening it. For example, a capacitor may be arranged parallel to the resistor R8. This capacitor can be designed so that it is charged after the predetermined start time by the applied supply voltage and thus the voltage across the parallel resistor R8 has risen so far that this voltage has reached a threshold voltage of the transistor M4, so that it closes and the Transistor M3 is deactivated by setting the gate voltage of the transistor M3 to ground.

FIG. 4 shows by way of example a circuit TL432, which is at least a part of the non-inventive circuit 4, which is designed to represent a current-constant load for the LED converter 10 in the readout window. The left side of the FIG. 4 shows a circuit diagram of the circuit, the right side shows a corresponding equivalent circuit diagram for the circuit TL431 or TL432. The constant current is determined by a ratio of the reference voltage of the switching circuit TL431 to the resistance value of the selection resistor R11 (Rcfg). A transistor Q1 is preferably controlled so that the voltage across the resistor R11 (Rcfg) is always about 2.5 volts. A minimum current of about 1 mA should flow through the TL431 circuit. The in FIG. 3 shown circuit can be connected in series with the in FIG. 4 be arranged circuit shown, so that the series circuit of both parallel to the LED track on the LED module 1 is arranged. Preferably, the virtual ground GNDX of the circuit is the FIG. 4 connected to the drain terminal of the transistor M3. About a current constant load such as in FIG. 4 As shown, the LED converter 10 for measuring the constant current, for example, a capacitor 11 discharged. The constant current through the circuit 4 (corresponding to the discharge current of the capacitor 11) may be determined directly or indirectly based on either the discharge duration and / or the discharge rate. Based on the discharge current, the LED converter can be applied to the circuit 4 used and thus Close the connected LED module 1. Furthermore, the LED converter 10 can determine operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module, for example based on stored tables.

The concept of determining the constant current through the circuit 4 is schematically illustrated in FIG FIG. 5 shown. For example, the LED converter 10 may be exemplified as a buck converter. The LED converter 10 is provided with the capacitor 11, which may be connected in parallel to the terminals 12 for the supply voltage. The voltage at the terminals 12 is monitored by the LED converter 10. When the supply voltage is disconnected from the LED module 1 by opening the switch 13, which is arranged in the LED converter 10 and is preferably clocked during operation of the LED converter, the capacitor 11 discharges via the preferably current-constant load is represented by the circuit 4 on the LED module 1. The discharge rate, ie the change in the voltage of the capacitor, which is applied to the terminals 12, is preferably measured by the LED converter 10 to close as described on the operating and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module 1. For example, the resistor R11, which is in FIG. 4 shown, when the capacitance of the capacitor 11 is known. This resistance value can then code the operating and / or maintenance parameters, ie the LED converter 10 can correlate, for example, this resistance value with operating and / or maintenance parameters in stored tables.

FIG. 6 shows a circuit TLC555, which is at least part of the circuit 4 and is adapted to generate a load change of the LED module 1 with a certain frequency, ie a change in the power consumption of the LED module 1. On the left side of the FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram, on the right side, a corresponding equivalent circuit diagram for the circuit TLC555 is shown. For example, a capacitor C1 can be charged and discharged between 1/3 and 2/3 of the supply voltage 5a applied from the LED converter 10. As long as the voltage applied by the LED converter 10 supply voltage 5a is constant, so can a frequency the load change, a duty cycle (duty ratio) of the load change or an amplitude of the load change (ie, a difference between a load before and a load after the change) are set. This also requires a change in power consumption with a corresponding frequency, duty cycle (duty ratio) or amplitude.

wobei R3, R4 und C1 Widerstands- bzw. Kapazitätswerte der in Fig. 6 gezeigten Komponenten sind.The frequency f of the change is defined as $$\mathrm{f}=1/\left\{\left(\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="3"\; label="R"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0008.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">R</figure-callout>}3+2\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="R"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0002.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">R</figure-callout>}4\right)\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="C"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0005.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">C</figure-callout>}1\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="2"\; label="ln"\; filenames="imgf0006.png,imgf0007.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">ln</figure-callout>}\left(2\right)\right\}.$$

where R3, R4 and C1 are resistance and capacitance values of in Fig. 6 are shown components.

und $${\mathrm{T}}_{\mathrm{low}}=\mathrm{R}4\cdot \mathrm{C}1\cdot \ln \left(2\right).$$

The duty cycle (clock ratio) is defined by the ON time (T _high ) and the OFF time (T _low ), where $${\mathrm{T}}_{\mathrm{high}}=\left(\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="3"\; label="R"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0008.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">R</figure-callout>}3+\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="R"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0002.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">R</figure-callout>}4\right)\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="C"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0005.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">C</figure-callout>}1\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="2"\; label="ln"\; filenames="imgf0006.png,imgf0007.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">ln</figure-callout>}\left(2\right)$$

and $${\mathrm{T}}_{\mathrm{low}}=\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="4"\; label="R"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0002.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">R</figure-callout>}4\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="1"\; label="C"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0005.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">C</figure-callout>}1\cdot \mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="2"\; label="ln"\; filenames="imgf0006.png,imgf0007.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">ln</figure-callout>}\left(2\right),$$

A change of the duty cycle is possible both by a change of the pulse duration (switch-on time duration, ON time, T _high ) and by a change of the pause duration (switch-off time duration, OFF time, T _low ).

The magnitude of the load is determined by the resistance R5 and the converter _voltage V _CONV (more precisely the ratio V _CONV / R5).

The circuit 4 may for example be designed so that it is activated only during the start phase of the LED light. This can be achieved, for example, that the supply of the circuit TLC555 by means of a timer such as an RC element, for example, this timer can be designed so that only for a time of, for example, 100 milliseconds the supply for the circuit TLC555 is applied and thereafter a charging of the capacitor of the RC element via a series resistor (starting from the supply voltage of the LED module 1) a predetermined voltage level is reached, which is used to switch off the supply voltage Vcc for the circuit TLC555 leads (example not shown). For example, the voltage dropping across the RC element may drive the base of a turn-off transistor (not shown) which pulls supply Vcc for circuit TLC555 to ground once the RC element has been charged. The charging time of the RC element can be designed so that a time of, for example, 100 milliseconds is reached, this time corresponds to the starting phase. A start of the circuit TLC555 at the beginning of the start phase can be done by a high-impedance supply directly from the supply voltage of the LED module 1, which at the end of the start phase by means of the voltage drop across the RC element via the turn-off transistor in a kind of pull-down configuration Mass is pulled. The circuit 4 may comprise a controllable switch which switches the resistor R5 on or off depending on the output signal OUT of the circuit TLC555 and thus causes the load change.

The in FIG. 3 shown circuit can be connected in series with the in FIG. 6 be arranged circuit shown, so that the series circuit of both parallel to the LED track on the LED module 1 is arranged. Preferably, the virtual ground GNDX of the circuit is the FIG. 6 connected to the drain terminal of the transistor M3. A deactivation of the circuit of FIG. 6 can be timed, for example. As already with the example of FIG. 3 illustrated, a capacitor may be arranged in parallel to the resistor R8. In this case, an RC element is also formed. The charging time of the RC element can be designed so that a time of, for example, 100 milliseconds is reached, this time corresponds to the starting phase. After the predetermined by the dimensioning of the RC element start time, the voltage at the gate of the transistor 4 has reached a threshold voltage of the transistor M4, so that it closes and the transistor M3 is deactivated by setting the gate voltage of the transistor M3 to ground. In this way, the circuit of the FIG. 6 only be activated for a given start phase.

If a repetitively changing load change (ie a modulated load change) is generated and output by the circuit 4, two, for example, can also be generated various information is transmitted. For example, both the frequency and the duty cycle of the load change can be changed. In this case, a first information (for example, the target voltage) could be coded by means of the frequency, while a second information (for example, the target current) can be coded transmitted over the duty cycle. Another possibility for the combined transmission of at least two information would be the corresponding change of the pulse duration (switch-on time duration, ON time, T _high ) and the pause duration (switch-off time duration, OFF time, T _low ) of the load change.

The change in the power consumption of the LED module 1 can be determined by the LED converter 10, for example, by direct current measurement of the current through the circuit 4. Alternatively, the LED converter 10 can take measurements on a buck converter as in FIG FIG. 7 shown, wherein the buck converter is preferably a part of the LED converter 10. So shows, for example FIG. 8 how the current through the circuit 4 and the current on the buck converter measured across a shunt correlate. FIG. 8 shows above the current "load current" through circuit 4 and the current "inductor current" by Buck converter plotted against time. The buck converter represents only an exemplary example of a high-frequency clocked converter, alternatively, for example, an isolated flyback converter, boost converter (boost converter) or a resonant half-bridge converter (preferably isolated, for example, a LLC converter) for feeding the LED Modules 1 are applied.

The LED converter can be like in FIG. 7 shown having a buck converter. The buck converter can be operated as a constant current source, ie regulate to a constant output current. In this case, for example, the output voltage of the Buck converter, so the voltage that is output at the output of the LED converter 10 and the voltage across the LED module 1 corresponds, are detected and evaluated. Additionally or alternatively, the duration of the on-time and the off-time of the control of the high-frequency clocked switch of the Buck converter can be monitored and evaluated to a To detect load change and thus read information from the LED module 1.

The buck converter can also be operated as a constant voltage source, so regulate to a constant output voltage. In this case, a load change on the LED module 1 will lead to a change in the peaking current occurring through the high-frequency clocked switch during the switch-on phase of the high-frequency clocked switch of the buck converter, which change can be detected. Additionally or alternatively, the duration of the on-time and the duty cycle of the control of the high-frequency clocked switch of the Buck converter can be monitored and evaluated to detect a load change and thus read information from the LED module 1. Alternatively, when operating as a constant voltage source, the level of the output current can also be evaluated in order to detect a load change.

The buck converter can be operated with a fixed duty cycle at a fixed frequency, preferably in a non-clipping current mode (continuous conduction mode). In such an operation, the magnitude of the output current and / or the output voltage can be evaluated to detect a load change.

The buck converter of the LED converter 10 can supply the LED module 1, for example, in a starting phase with a constant supply voltage, preferably a constant DC voltage. In this case, the buck converter is operated in the starting phase as a constant voltage source. For example, the LED converter 10 can be operated with a reduced duty cycle compared to the normal operation, whereby a lower output voltage is achieved. The supply voltage may be a first supply voltage 5a, ie it may be in the readout window, the in FIG. 2 is shown. According to the invention, the buck converter can also supply the LED module 1 according to the invention with a regulated current in a starting phase, then the buck converter is preferably operated as a constant current source.

FIG. 8 shows below an enlarged view of this plot. The larger the load of the circuit 4, the larger becomes a duty ratio or a peak current at the measuring resistor (shunt). Depending on a control principle of the LED module 1 by the LED converter 10, it is also possible to measure a peak current at the shunt of the buck converter or also a change in the pulse duty factor at the buck converter. The change in the load of the circuit 4 or the power consumption of the LED module 1 can be detected directly on the shunt at the low-potential switch of the Buck converter. Either by a periodic change of the duty cycle or a periodic change of the peak current, which correlates with a periodic change of the power consumption of the LED module 1.

As already mentioned, the LED converter 10 can have, for example, an insulated converter with a transformer for high-frequency energy transmission (isolated, preferably an insulated flyback converter) for supplying the LED module 1. If the LED converter 10 is designed to be insulated (for example as an isolated flyback converter), ie has a transformer, the detection of the load change by the LED converter 10 can also take place on the primary side of the LED converter 10.

For example, when using an isolated flyback converter, the current on the primary side of the LED converter 10 flowing through the primary side of the transformer can be detected. In this case, for example, the current through the clock switch, which is arranged in series with the primary winding of Trasnformators, or the current through the primary winding of the transformer, preferably by means of a series-connected shunt (Strommeßwiderstandes) are detected. For example, based on the peak current at the shunt, the applied load or the load change of the LED module 1 and thus, for example, a change in the duty cycle on the primary side of the LED converter 10 can be measured. For example, the change in the primary-side current over time can be detected. For example, a detection of the power transmitted from the primary side based on the measurement of the primary-side current and a measurement or at least the knowledge of the voltage supplying the converter respectively. It would be possible, for example, for the converter to be preceded by an active power factor correction circuit, such as a boost converter circuit, which provides the input voltage for the high-frequency clocked, isolated converter, such as the isolated flyback converter, and regulates it to a predetermined value. This predetermined value for the input voltage controlled by the active power factor correction circuit for the high-frequency clocked converter is known on the basis of the specification (for example via a voltage divider) and can thus be taken into account in the detection of the power transmitted from the primary side.

As already mentioned, the LED converter can have an isolated flyback converter. The isolated flyback converter can be operated as a constant current source, so regulate to a constant output current. In this case, for example, the output voltage of the isolated flyback converter, so the voltage that is output at the output of the LED converter 10 and the voltage across the LED module 1 corresponds to be detected and evaluated. This output voltage can be detected directly or indirectly, for example by means of a measurement of the voltage across a primary-side winding of the transformer of the isolated flyback converter. Additionally or alternatively, the duration of the turn-off time of the control of the high-frequency clocked switch of the isolated flyback converter can be monitored and evaluated to detect a load change and thus read information from a non-inventive LED module 1.

The isolated flyback converter can also be operated as a constant voltage source, so regulate to a constant output voltage. In this case, a load change on the LED module 1 will result in a change in the output current, which change can be detected. This change of the output current may, for example, result in a change in the peaking current occurring through the high-frequency clocked switch during the switch-on phase of the high-frequency clocked switch of the isolated spear converter. The monitoring of the primary-side current through the high-frequency clocked switch can thus Monitoring a load change can be used to read out information from the LED module 1 according to the invention.

The isolated flyback converter can also be operated with a fixed duty cycle at a fixed frequency. In such an operation, the magnitude of the output current and / or the output voltage can be evaluated to detect a load change. If only the LED track of the LED module is active, then the output voltage will take on the value of the forward link voltage of the LED track. If a load change occurs through the circuit 4, then the output voltage will drop. This change can be recorded as a load change. As already mentioned, the LED converter can have an isolated resonant half-bridge converter such as, for example, a so-called LLC converter. The LLC converter can be operated as a constant current source, ie regulate to a constant output current. In this case, for example, the output voltage of the isolated flyback converter, so the voltage that is output at the output of the LED converter 10 and the voltage across the LED module 1 corresponds to be detected and evaluated. This output voltage can be detected directly or indirectly, for example by means of a measurement of the voltage on a primary-side winding of the transformer of the LLC converter. If only the LED track of the LED module is active, then the output voltage will take on the value of the forward link voltage of the LED track. If a load change occurs through the circuit 4, then the output voltage will drop. This change can be recorded as a load change. In addition or as an alternative, the clock frequency of the LLC converter which adjusts itself due to the control loop can also be monitored and evaluated in order to detect a load change and thus to read out information from the LED module 1. If the control loop of the LLC converter is designed such that a frequency stop of the drive of the half-bridge of the LLC converter is achieved during the load change by the circuit 4, this can also be evaluated in order to read out the information.

The isolated resonant half-bridge converter, such as LLC converter, can also be operated as a constant voltage source by operating at a fixed frequency, the frequency being chosen such that the resulting voltage at the output is below the value of the LED line's forward voltage. In this case, a load change on the LED module 1 will result in a change in the output current, which change can be detected. This change of the output current can take place, for example, on the secondary side of the LLC converter and be transmitted to the primary side by means of a coupling element, such as a current transformer. The monitoring of the output current can thus be used to monitor a load change, thus reading information from the LED module 1.

The LED converter 10 is operated, for example in a start-up phase in a particular mode, for example in a fixed-frequency mode or as a power source or voltage source to detect a load change and thus read out information of the circuit 4, for example, according to at least one protocol is transmitted.

The circuit 4 can also have a digital control unit IC1 which is designed to output various types of modulated signals as a preferably modulated load change, for example also a specific pulse sequence as a digital coding (sequence of zeros and ones). The LED converter 10 may be designed to query various types of information, ie different operating parameters and / or maintenance parameters of the LED module 1 by a change in the supply voltage and also selectively query one of a plurality of LED modules. The change in the supply voltage can be effected, for example, by means of a low-frequency (in the range of a few hertz up to one kilohertz) or high-frequency modulation (in the tens or hundreds of kilohertz or up to the megahertz range).

The digital control unit IC1 of the circuit 4 may be implemented as an integrated circuit. For example, the integrated circuit may be implemented as an integrated control circuit with only three or four terminals.

In a three-terminal embodiment, the digital control unit IC1 would have a first terminal Vp connected to the supply voltage of the LED module 1 ( Fig. 9 ). Via this first connection Vp, the digital control unit IC1 can detect the supply voltage of the LED module 1 by means of the first analog-to-digital converter A / D1 connected to this connection Vp. A second terminal Vn is connected to the ground of the LED module 1 and allows an internal ground connection within the digital control unit IC1. A third terminal Vdd may be connected to a capacitor which is also connected to its other terminal to ground of the LED module 1. The second terminal Vp may be internally connected to the first terminal Vp via a diode and a switch Svdd. This switch Svdd can be compared to a reference value Ref by means of a comparator Comp1, depending on a comparison of the voltage currently present at the terminal Vdd. Depending on the comparison result, the switch Svdd may be turned on by the drive unit VddCtrl when the actual value of the voltage at the terminal Vdd is smaller than the reference value Ref. Then, via the switch Svdd, a current flows into the capacitor connected to the third terminal Vdd. The voltage applied to the third terminal Vdd can be used as an internal power supply for the digital control unit IC1. The terminal Vdd serves in this case to stabilize the internal power supply of the digital control unit IC1.

The digital control unit IC1 can be programmed in advance according to this example, for example during the manufacture or assembly of the LED module 1. This programming of the digital control unit IC1 can for example specify an operating parameter of the LED module 1, such as, for example, the setpoint current or the setpoint voltage.

In the digital control unit IC1, a switching element S6 is integrated, which in the function of the switch 6 of the example of Fig. 1 corresponds and is designed to output as a modulated load change at least one modulated signal or different types of modulated signals. In this case, the voltage at the first terminal Vp is internally connected by closing the integrated switching element S6 to the second terminal Vn directly or indirectly, for example via an integrated resistor R6, and thus pulls the voltage at the terminal Vp to a lower potential. For example, the modulated signal may be a particular pulse train and output as a digital encoding (sequence of zeros and ones). By means of the switching element S6, the digital control unit IC1 thus, for example, in a startup phase (ie, a limited startup phase of the LED converter and LED module 1) transmit information, preferably in accordance with the at least one protocol, for example, in the LED module 1 and is stored in the LED converter 10. The current through the switching element S6 can be monitored by means of the resistor R6, wherein the switching element S6 can be opened when the current through the switching element S6 and thus the resistor R6 becomes too large. The detection of the voltage drop across the resistor R6 and thus of the current flowing therethrough can be effected by means of a second analog-to-digital converter A / D2. The reading and evaluation of the two analog-to-digital converters and the control of the switching element S6 can be done by a built-in digital control unit IC1 control block "Config and Com". All further operations such as signal evaluations and outputs can also be executed by this control block.

For example, a sensor system for detecting the temperature can also be integrated in the digital control unit IC1, as a result of which the digital control unit IC1 can transmit an over-temperature or an operating temperature as information according to the at least one protocol to the LED converter. As a maintenance parameter, the digital control unit IC1, for example, also have a counter for the operating time and the digital control unit IC1 can be configured to output an aging parameter of the LED module or the LED track or an operating period of the LED module as a maintenance parameter.

The digital control unit IC1 can also detect an overvoltage on the LED module 1 and output a corresponding error message as a maintenance parameter. Optionally or alternatively, by closing the switching element S6, the LED path of the LED module 1 can be bridged and thus protected from the overvoltage.

In the Fig. 10 For example, one embodiment of the four port digital control unit IC1 is shown. The digital control unit IC1 has a fourth terminal Cfg, to which a configuration element such as a resistor Rcfg (selection resistor R11) may be connected. A controllable current source Icfg can be internally connected to this fourth terminal Cfg. The voltage drop across the resistor Rcfg, which results from the current supplied by the controllable current source Icfg and the resistance of the resistor Rcfg, can be controlled by the control block "Config and Com" of the digital control unit IC1 via a third analog-to-digital converter A / D3 be detected. This detected voltage at the fourth terminal Cfg may specify an operating parameter of the LED module 1, such as the target current or the target voltage. Optionally, for example, a temperature-dependent resistor between the fourth terminal Cfg and the third terminal Vdd may be arranged. The temperature-dependent resistor may be designed such that its resistance changes greatly in the event of an excess temperature on the LED module 1, as a result of which the voltage at the fourth terminal Cfg also changes. This change can be detected by the digital control unit IC1 and, for example, an over-temperature can be transmitted as information according to the at least one protocol to the LED converter as a maintenance parameter. For example, can be used as a temperature-dependent resistor, an NTC, which lowers its resistance at too high a temperature, whereby the voltage at the fourth terminal Cfg increases. The controllable current source Icfg can be active, for example, only at the start of the digital control unit IC1 in order to read the value of the counterhold R11, while in continuous operation of the LED module 1, only the resulting from the voltage divider from the temperature-dependent resistor and resistor R11 voltage for detecting an overtemperature is monitored.

In contrast to the examples of Fig. 9 and 10 is in this variant of Fig. 11 , the switch not as an integrated switching element S6 but as an external switch 6 analogous to the example of Fig. 1 executed. This switch 6 is driven via a fifth terminal Sdrv by the digital control unit IC1. In series with the switch 6, a resistor R6 is arranged. The current through the resistor R6 can be detected and monitored by means of the voltage drop across the resistor R6 by means of a sixth terminal Imon by the digital control unit IC1.

The example of Fig. 12 shows a further embodiment of the digital control unit IC1. This example is like the example of Fig. 10 the connections Vp, Vn and Vdd. Also, the fourth terminal Cfg is present, to which in turn a resistor R11 (Riled) is connected as a configuration element. Furthermore, the digital control unit IC1 has two further connections. Connected to another terminal Vovt is a resistor Rovt, which is a temperature dependent resistor. By monitoring the resistance of this resistor Rovt an overtemperature can be detected. For this purpose, a further controllable current source can be arranged in the digital control unit IC1, which outputs a current at the further terminal Vovt, which flows into the resistor Rovt. Depending on the current resistance value, which is monitored on the basis of the detected voltage at this connection Vovt, the digital control unit IC1 can detect an excess temperature on the LED module 1. In an analogous manner, a current can be fed into the temperature-dependent resistor Ritm connected thereto via a further controllable current source at the further terminal Vitm, and the digital control unit IC1 can be fed to the current control unit, which is monitored on the basis of the detected voltage at this terminal Vitm Close operating temperature on the LED module 1. Depending on the value of the detected operating temperature, this can be transmitted as information as well as an excess temperature as information in accordance with the at least one protocol to the LED converter. The information about the operating temperature can be evaluated by the LED converter, with an intelligent feedback control of the current through the LED module 1 can be done without an excess temperature must be achieved.

The switch 6 or the switching element S6 can perform further functions on the LED module 1, which can be controlled by the digital control unit IC1. For example, afterglow protection can be enabled. The digital control unit IC1 can detect, for example, when the LED module 1 is to be switched off or has already been switched off by switching off the supply voltage. In order to avoid parasitic effects or residual charges coupled-in voltages, the switch 6 and the switching element S6 can be closed to prevent glowing of the LED due to the coupled voltages. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible to protect the LED module 1 against overvoltages by closing the switch 6 or the switching element S6 at least briefly in the event of overvoltage at the supply input of the LED module 1, in order to reduce the overvoltage or to close the LED protect. Thus, a protection against overvoltages when disconnecting the LED module 1 from the LED converter in the operation of the LED module 1 can be made possible, as a so-called "hot-plug" protection. Such disconnection can occur both unintentionally by a sudden interruption of contact in the supply line or by a user error by an intervention, such as a change of the LED module 1 during operation.

The LED converter 10 can effect a change of the LED module into a communication mode by selectively changing the supply voltage for the LED module 1, and then the LED converter 10 can detect the change of the power consumption of the LED module 1 and according to the at least one protocol, which is stored for example in the LED module 1 and the LED converter 10 decode. For example, thus, the LED converter 10 query various information from the LED module 1, wherein a specific protocol can be stored for each query. Thus, a bidirectional communication path between the LED module and the LED converter is made possible without additional lines or pins.

The change in the power consumption of the LED module 1 is effected depending on a value of the first supply voltage 5a in accordance with one of a plurality of predetermined protocols, thereby causing a different load change according to one of a plurality of predetermined protocols.

Various concepts for detecting the change in the power consumption of the LED module 1 by the LED converter 10 are preferred by the present invention. On the one hand, by determining a frequency of the change in the power consumption of the LED module 1, for example by directly detecting the current on the converter side. And secondly by indirect detection by determining a peak current within the LED converter, which has, for example, an isolated flyback converter or Buck converter, which is measured via a shunt. The peak current follows the change in the power consumption of the LED module 1.

In summary, the present invention proposes to transmit information from an LED module 1 to an LED converter 10, which can be concluded on set to the LED module 1 operating and / or maintenance parameters. The operating parameter to be set can be, for example, the setpoint current or the setpoint voltage. For this purpose, according to the invention, a circuit 4 (load modulation circuit) is provided on the LED module, which is non-conductive in a voltage range of a first supply voltage 5a, which is non-zero and in which a LED path 3 connected to the LED module 1 is nonconductive represents for the LED converter, and in a voltage range of a second supply voltage 5b, which is not equal to zero and in which a connected LED track 3 is conductive, no load for the LED converter 10 represents. The circuit 4 may also be activated only temporarily, preferably only during a start phase of the LED light. The load may be repeatedly variable (modulated) according to a predetermined protocol.

That is, there is a modulated load change according to a predetermined protocol. The power consumption can be detected by the LED converter 10, in particular also a change in the power consumption (amplitude, frequency, duty cycle). As a result, the LED converter 10 can determine the operating and / or maintenance parameters. The transmission of this information between the LED module 1 and the LED converter 10 requires no additional connections (only the connection of the supply voltage). In addition, no interaction with LED module 1 and / or LED converter 10 is necessary. This improves the disadvantages of the known art.

Claims (15)

1. An LED module (1), comprising:

   - Supply connections (12);

   - connections (2) for an LED series (3);

   - a circuit (4), which is designed to constitute a current-variable load at the supply connections (12), which produces a change in the power consumption of the LED module (1) according to at least one predefined protocol, if a first supply voltage (5a) not equal to zero is applied to the supply connections (12), which is dimensioned in such a way that when an LED series (3) is connected, said LED series is not conductive, and which is designed to constitute no load, if a second supply voltage (5b) not equal to zero is applied to the supply connection (12), in which the LED series (3) is conductive and emits light,

   characterized in
   that the region of the supply voltage (5a) not equal to zero, which is dimensioned in such a way that when an LED series (3) is connected, said LED series is not conductive, is divided into several sub-regions,
   wherein the circuit (4) is designed in such a manner, that the change in the current-variable load is produced depending on a value of the first supply voltage (5a) according to one of several predefined protocols, wherein in each sub-area a different change in the load reception is carried out by the LED-module.
2. An LED module (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the circuit (4) is adapted to encode at least one operating and/or maintenance parameter of the LED module (1) by the change in the load according to the at least one predefined protocol.
3. An LED module (1) according to Claim 2, wherein the at least one predefined protocol defines a frequency and/or an amplitude and/or a duty cycle of the change of the load of the LED module (1).
4. An LED module (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the circuit (4) comprises a timer circuit (6), which is adapted to predefine a frequency of the change of the load of the LED module (1).
5. An LED module (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the circuit (4) is integrated into a semiconductor material of the LED module (1).
6. An LED module (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one sensor is provided on the LED module (1), which is adapted to influence an electrical parameter of the circuit (4), wherein preferably the at least one sensor is a light-dependent resistor, and the light sensor is connected with the circuit (4) such that a change of the light-dependent resistor changes the load resistance of the circuit (4).
7. A system comprising an LED converter (10) and an LED module (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 6,
   wherein the LED converter has a high-frequency-clocked converter, wherein the high-frequency-clocked converter can selectively adjust the supply voltage of the LED module and is adapted to detect a power consumption of the LED module (1) on the primary side of the transformer of the high-frequency-clocked converter, and
   based on the detected power consumption to determine at least one operating and/or maintenance parameter of the LED module (1).
8. A system according to Claim 7, in which the LED converter is adapted:

   - to use the at least one determined operating and/or maintenance parameter for adjusting and regulating the operation of the LED module (1),

   - to store said parameter in an associated memory,

   - to optically and/or acoustically display said parameter, and/or

   - to transmit said parameter via a wireless or wired interface, if applicable, in response to an external query.
9. A system according to Claim 7 or 8, wherein
   the at least one operating and/or maintenance parameter is a target current through an LED series (3) connected to the LED module (1), an aging parameter, an operational period of time, and/or a spectrum of a light emitted by the LED series (3).
10. A system according to any one of Claims 7 to 9, wherein the LED converter is adapted to identify the LED module (1) based on the at least one determined operating and/or maintenance parameter.
11. A system according to any one of Claims 7 to 10, wherein the LED converter is adapted to selectively switch between a mode for detecting a power consumption of the LED module (1) and a mode for the lighting operation of an LED series (3) connected to the LED module (1) through adjustment of a first supply voltage (5a) or a second supply voltage (5b) for the LED module (1).
12. A system according to any one of Claims 7 to 11, wherein the LED converter is adapted to carry out a current measurement for directly detecting the power consumption of the LED module (1).
13. A system according to any one of Claims 7 to 12, wherein the LED converter is adapted to carry out an indirect detection of the power consumption of the LED module (1), wherein preferably the LED converter is adapted to detect a change in the power consumption of the LED module (1) through a change of a duty cycle of the clocking of the LED converter (10).
14. An LED luminaire, having the system according to any one of Claims 7 to 13.
15. A method for determining information regarding an LED module (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 6 on an LED converter (10) having a high-frequency-clocked converter, preferably an insulated flyback converter, which comprises provision of a supply voltage not equal to zero by the LED converter (10) to the LED module (1), which is dimensioned in such a manner that when the LED series (3) is connected to the LED module (1), said LED module is non-conductive,
    detection of a power consumption of the LED module (1) by the high-frequency-clocked converter, wherein the circuit (4) on the LED module (1) produces a modulated load change at least during a start phase, and
    determine at least one operating and/or maintenance parameter of the LED module (1) based on the power consumption detected by the LED converter (10).

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