WO2022184453A1

WO2022184453A1 - Lighting apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2022184453A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/053937
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander Henricus Waltherus VAN EEUWIJK; Geert Florimond Gerard Depovere; Ties Van Bommel
Original assignee: Signify Holding B.V.
Priority date: 2021-03-02
Filing date: 2022-02-17
Publication date: 2022-09-09

Abstract

Presented is lighting apparatus. The lighting apparatus comprises a lighting unit configured to emit light and a non-lighting unit configured to operate in a plurality of different modes. The lighting apparatus also comprises a power interface for receiving power for at least one of the lighting unit and the non-lighting unit. A control unit of the lighting apparatus is configured to detect an interruption in power received by the power interface and to change a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to a detected interruption in power.Embodiments may therefore provide for improved (e.g. simpler) control of functionality of a lighting apparatus with non-lighting unit.

Description

Lighting apparatus

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to lighting apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Lighting apparatus (such as LED lamps) are widely known and typically used as illumination devices (i.e. devices that illuminate an area by emitting light from one or more lighting units or light sources).

In view of the widespread usage of lighting apparatus, it has been proposed to integrate lighting devices with non-lighting units (i.e. other units that provide additional non lighting functionality). For example, due to widespread usage of LED lamps and the realization that ionized air generated by an ionizer (i.e. ion generator, ionization unit or ion generation unit) can be used to kill bacteria and/or viruses, it has been proposed to integrate ionizers with LED lamps. That is, LED lamps with an integrated (negative and/or positive) ionizer are known.

To control the functionality of the non-lighting unit integrated with a lighting apparatus, it is typical to provide a switch on the lighting apparatus which allows a user to select a single functionality of the non-lighting unit. However, after installment of the lighting apparatus, changing such functionality can be difficult and/or cumbersome (e.g. because access to the lighting apparatus may be restricted/limited).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention aims to at least partly fulfil the aforementioned needs. To this end, the invention provides devices and systems as defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims provide advantageous embodiments.

There is provided a lighting apparatus comprising a lighting unit configured to emit light; a non-lighting unit configured to operate in a plurality of different modes; a power interface for receiving power for at least one of the lighting unit and the non-lighting unit; and a control unit configured to detect an interruption in power received by the power and to change a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to a detected interruption in power. Proposed is a concept of using interruptions in the power supply to a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting unit (such as a fan, ionizer, loudspeaker, etc.) in order to control operation of the non-lighting unit. Put another way, it is proposed to control the functionality of a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting unit based on short-duration interruptions in a power supply (i.e. voltage and current supply) to the lighting apparatus. The invention therefore provides for simpler control (i.e. change, modification, adaption, etc.) of functionality of a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting unit. In particular, only with a single external power on-off switch being controlled by a user, at least two different functions (or units) can be controlled in the lighting apparatus: a lighting unit and a non lighting unit. Such a switch can be a wall-mounted switch that is normally already used for turning on and off a load such as a lamp.

Embodiments thus provide one or more concepts for improving the control of lighting apparatus with non-lighting units. The lighting apparatus may, for example, comprise a lamp, and may preferably comprise an LED lamp. Further, such a lamp may comprise a cap, a housing (body), a light exit window such as a diffuser (e.g. an envelope), a light source (e.g. one or more LEDs), a driver and/or a controller.

In an embodiment, the non-lighting unit comprises an ionizer.

In an embodiment, the non-lighting unit comprises: a fan, a loudspeaker, a camera, a sensor, a fluid dispenser, an air filter, a cooling unit, or a heating unit.

In an embodiment, the lighting apparatus may comprise a lighting unit, a non lighting unit, a further non-lighting unit, a power interface and a control unit. The lighting unit may be configured to emit light. The non-lighting unit may be configured to operate in a plurality of different modes. The further non-lighting unit may also configured to operate in a plurality of different modes. The power interface may be configured for receiving power for at least one of the lighting unit, the non-lighting unit and the further non-lighting unit. The control unit may be configured to detect an interruption in power received by the power interface and to change a mode of the non-lighting unit and/or the further non-lighting unit responsive to a detected interruption in power. The further non-lighting unit may comprise a fan. Preferably, the control unit may be configured to detect an interruption in power received by the power interface and to (simultaneously) change a mode of the non-lighting unit and the further non-lighting unit responsive to a detected interruption in power. For example, the ionization rate and the fan speed may be (simultaneously) adapted e.g. from a low ionization rate and low fan speed into a high ionization rate and high fan speed. By way of example, it is proposed that a LED lamp with integrated ionizer may be provided with a controller (i.e. control unit) that can detect interruptions in a mains power supply to the LED lamp and control the mode of the ionizer based on the interruption(s).

In other examples, a lighting apparatus with integrated fan may be provided with a controller (i.e. control unit) that can detect interruptions in a mains power supply to the lighting apparatus and control the mode of the fan based on the interruption(s).

Interruptions are classified by IEEE 1159 into either a short-duration or long- duration variation. However, the term “interruption” is often used to refer to short-duration interruption, while the latter is preceded by the word “sustained” to indicate a long-duration. They are measured and described by their duration since the voltage magnitude is always less than 10% of nominal (i.e. less than 0.1 per unit (pu)). Short-duration interruptions may be termed ‘discontinuities’ in some standards.

Short-duration interruptions may be instantaneous (e.g. having a duration in the range 0.001 to 0.5 seconds) or may be momentary (e.g. having a duration in the range of 0.5 to 3 seconds). Temporary short-duration interruptions (e.g. having a duration in the range of 3 seconds to 1 minute) may, in practice, be too long in duration to be practicable for proposed embodiments.

Thus, according to proposed embodiments, the interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus may be an instantaneous or momentary interruption.

In some embodiments, the short-duration interruption may preferably be in a range from 0.5 to 30 seconds, more preferably in a range from 2 to 20 seconds, and most preferably in a range from 3 to 10 seconds. Further, in some embodiments, the short-duration interruption may preferably be at least 1 second, more preferably at least 2 seconds, and most preferably at least 3 seconds. Yet further, in some embodiments, the short-duration interruption may preferably be equal to or less than 30 seconds, more preferably equal to or less than 20 seconds, most preferably equal to or less than 10 seconds.

Accordingly, unlike conventional lighting apparatus with integrated non lighting functionality (e.g. ionizer, speaker, fan, etc.), proposed embodiments avoid the need for a separate/dedicated physical switch on the body/housing of the lighting apparatus for controlling the non-lighting function. Rather, it is proposed that the non-lighting function can be controlled based on short-duration interruptions in the power supply to the lighting apparatus, wherein such short-duration interruptions in a power supply can be provided by a user manipulating (e.g. toggling) a conventional switch that controls the lighting apparatus power supply. Proposed embodiments may therefore work with an existing/conventional light switch that controls the power supply to the lighting apparatus. For instance, after installing the proposed lighting apparatus into a conventional lighting circuit (with existing switch for turning the lighting apparatus on and off), a user may simply toggle the switch (e.g. from ON to OFF and back to ON in quick succession) to cause a short-duration interruption (instantaneous or momentary interruption) in power supply to the lighting apparatus, which in turn changes the mode of the non-lighting unit.

In some embodiments, the control unit may be adapted to switch the non lighting unit from a current mode (e.g. off) to a new mode (e.g. on) based on the current mode. That is, the control unit may cause the non-lighting unit to transition from a current state to a next state (responsive to a short-duration interruption in a power supply to the lighting apparatus), wherein the next state of the non-lighting unit may depend on the current state of the non-lighting unit.

Purely by way of example only, operation of an embodiment may be summarized as follows:

(i) Turn on the lighting apparatus (via a switch that controls the power supply to the lighting apparatus): the lighting unit is turned on and the non-lighting unit is off (i.e. State 1 = Light: On; Non-light function: Mode 1);

(ii) A first short-duration interruption in power supply: the non-lighting unit is turned on and the lighting unit remains on (i.e. State 2 = Light: On; Non-light function: Mode 2);

(ii) A second short-duration interruption in power supply: the non-lighting unit remains on and the lighting unit turns off (i.e. State 3 = Light: Off; Non-light function: Mode 2); and

(iii) A third short-duration interruption in power supply: the non-lighting unit turns off and the lighting unit turns on (i.e. State 1 = Light: On; Non-light function: Mode 1).

In the first mode, an operating parameter of the non-lighting unit may be configured to have a first value (e.g. fan speed = zero, i.e. off). In the second mode, the operating parameter of the non-lighting unit may be configured to have a second, different value (e.g. fan speed = 500 rpm, i.e. on). The second value may therefore be greater than the first value. Alternatively, the second value may be less than the first value.

The lighting apparatus may be configured to generate a mode indication for indicating a mode of the non-lighting unit. In this way, the lighting apparatus may indicate operation of the non-lighting unit. For example, the lighting apparatus may be configured to alter a characteristic of its illumination to generate the mode indication, preferably color, color temperature and/or brightness level. The general illumination provided by the lighting apparatus may therefore be used for indicating the mode of the non-lighting unit, such as temporarily providing pulsed light or a different color temperature for example. Switching between different functionality may thus coincide with providing different color temperatures and/or brightness levels.

By way of further example, the lighting apparatus may comprise an output interface configured to output the mode indication as a visual and/or audible signal. For instance, a supplementary/additional (indicator) light source (e.g. LED(s)) may be provided on the lighting apparatus to provide a visual indication of the mode of the non-lighting unit.

In some embodiments, the lighting apparatus may be configured to generate a mode change indication for indicating a change in mode of the non-lighting unit. In this way, the lighting apparatus may indicate a change in mode of the non-lighting unit, thereby providing a confirmation signal for confirming that the mode of the non-lighting unit has been changed. For example, the lighting apparatus may be configured to alter a characteristic of its emitted light to generate the mode change indication, preferably color, color temperature and/or brightness level. By way of further example, the lighting apparatus may comprise an output interface configured to output the mode change indication as a visual and/or audible signal.

The control unit may be adapted to change a mode of the non-lighting unit further based on the time of occurrence of the short-duration interruption with respect to a predetermined time window. In this way, an option to toggle between the different modes may be restricted to a limited time window/frame, e.g. within five to thirty seconds of switching on/off the lighting apparatus. Put another way, the ability to switch between the different functions or modes of the non-lighting unit may be restricted based on time and/or past usage of the lighting apparatus, e.g. taking into account the lifetime of the non-lighting unit.

It will therefore be appreciated that proposed embodiments may enable a functionality/mode of a lighting apparatus with non-lighting unit, e.g. an ionizer, to be controlled via control of power supply to the lighting apparatus. Thus, according to proposed concepts, an existing switch for controlling the power supply to a lighting apparatus may be provided with extended functionality, e.g. by enabling the switch to provide a secondary/supplementary function of changing the mode of the non-lighting unit of a lighting apparatus. In particular, embodiments may be used in conjunction with conventional electrical power supply circuits that employ conventional non-dimming and/dimming switches. Such embodiments may facilitate simple and easy control of a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting unit, wherein a mode of the non-lighting unit may be changed by the simple operation of a switch that also controls power supply to the lighting apparatus. Accordingly, by way of example, improved control of the functionality of a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting unit (e.g. ionizer or fan) may be provided by proposed concepts.

For instance, embodiments may provide an LED lamp with integrated ionizer, wherein the LED lamp comprises a control unit adapted to change a mode of the ionizer responsive to an interruption in a power supply to the LED lamp. Thus, proposed is a concept of using interruptions in the power supply to an LED lamp with integrated ionizer in order to control operation of the ionizer. Put another way, it is proposed to control the ionizing functionality of an LED lamp with integrated ionizer based on short-duration interruptions in a power supply to the LED lamp. The invention therefore provides for simpler control (i.e. change, modification, adaption, etc.) of functionality of an LED lamp with integrated ionizer. Embodiments thus provide one or more concepts for improving the control of LED lamps with integrated ionizers.

Further, in the first mode, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions (i.e. positive and/or negative (charged) particles) at a first ion generation rate (e.g. zero ions per second, i.e. off). In the second mode, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions at a second, different ion generation rate (e.g. any non-zero rate, i.e. on). The second ion generation rate may therefore be greater than the first ion generation rate. Alternatively, the second ion generation rate may be less than the first ion generation rate.

In some embodiments, in the first mode, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions for a first duration of time, and, in the second mode, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions for a second, different duration of time. The second duration of time may be greater than the first duration of time. Alternatively, the second duration of time may be less than the first duration of time.

By way of further example, the non-lighting unit may comprise an integrated loudspeaker, wherein the control unit is adapted to change a mode of the loudspeaker responsive to an interruption in a power supply to the lighting apparatus. Thus, proposed is a concept of using interruptions in the power supply to a lighting apparatus with integrated loudspeaker in order to control operation of the loudspeaker. Put another way, it is proposed to control the sound output functionality of a lighting apparatus with integrated loudspeaker based on short-duration interruptions in a power supply to the lighting apparatus. The invention therefore provides for simpler control (i.e. change, modification, adaption, etc.) of functionality of a lighting apparatus with integrated loud speaker. Embodiments thus provide one or more concepts for improving the control of lighting apparatus (e.g. lamps) with integrated loudspeaker.

The control unit may also be adapted to change a mode of the lighting unit responsive to the detected interruption in power. For example, the lighting unit may be controlled to indicate the mode change of the non-lighting unit. This may provide an approach to provisioning in a mode change indication independent from the normal adaptation of the lighting unit. That is, the control unit may override the normal operation of the lighting unit so that the lighting unit changes mode (e.g. temporarily) to output a mode change indication.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a lighting system comprising: a lighting apparatus according to a proposed embodiment; and a switch configured to control the power supply to the lighting apparatus. The switch is configured to cause an interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus responsive to a predetermined user interaction with the switch.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of controlling lighting apparatus having a lighting unit configured to emit light and a non lighting unit configured to operate in a plurality of different modes, the method comprising: detecting an interruption in power received by the lighting apparatus; and changing a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to the detected interruption in power.

These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment s) described hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Examples in accordance with aspects of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an LED lamp with integrated ionizer according to an embodiment;

Figures 2A-2D are timing graphs showing variations in operating parameter values with respect to time for an exemplary implementation of the LED lamp of Figure 1; Figures 3 A & 3B comprise timing graphs showing variations in operating parameter values of an embodiment with respect to time; and

Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a lighting system according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Proposed is a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting unit (such as an ionizer, fan, loudspeaker, sensor, motion detector, etc.) with improved control functionality. In particular, it is proposed to provide such a lighting apparatus with a control unit that is configured to change a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to a short-duration interruption in a power supply to the lighting apparatus. By adapting the lighting apparatus to use interruptions in its power supply in order to control operation of the integrated non lighting unit, simpler control (e.g. of the functionality of the lighting apparatus) can be realized.

Embodiments may thus be employed with existing electrical power supply circuits that employ conventional switches. For example, a short-duration interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus may be provided via a switch of the electrical power supply circuit. By quickly toggling a switch (that controls the power supply to the lighting apparatus) to cause a short-duration interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus, a mode of the non-lighting unit can be changed.

Embodiments of the present invention are therefore directed toward enabling a supplementary functionality/mode of a lighting apparatus with integrated non-lighting function to be controlled easily. Purely by way of example, it is proposed to adapt a LED lamp with integrated ionizer to have a control unit which controls operation of the ionizer responsive to changes in the power supply to the LED lamp. By way of further example, it is proposed to adapt a lighting apparatus with integrated speaker to have a control unit which controls operation of the speaker (e.g. turns it on or off) responsive to changes in the power supply to the lighting apparatus.

Embodiments are based on the proposal that short-duration interruptions in the power supply to a lighting apparatus may be used to provide control signals/instructions to a control unit of a lighting apparatus.

Thus, there is proposed an approach to providing a non-lighting function and a lighting function in a single lighting apparatus, wherein both the non-lighting function and lighting function may be controlled in a simple way. For example, a short-duration interruption in mains supply to the lighting apparatus may be provided via a single switch. By quickly toggling a switch (that controls the power supply to the lighting apparatus) to cause a short-duration interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus, the functionality of the non-lighting unit may be altered (responsive to the short-duration interruption in power supply).

In this context, reference to a short-duration interruption should be understood to refer to a short-duration interruption as classified by IEEE 1159. According to IEEE 1159, interruptions are classified into either a short-duration or long-duration variation. However, the term “interruption” is often used to refer to short-duration interruption, while the latter is preceded by the word “sustained” to indicate a long-duration. They are measured and described by their duration since the voltage magnitude is always less than 10% of nominal.

A short-duration interruption is defined as the decrease in the voltage supply level to less than 10% of nominal for up to one (1) minute duration. They are further subdivided into: Instantaneous Interruption (up to 0.5 seconds), Momentary Interruption (0.5 seconds to 3 seconds) and Temporary Interruption (3 seconds to 1 minute). For example, instantaneous reclosing of an electrical circuit will limit the interruption to less than half a second. On the other hand, time delayed reclosing of the electrical circuit may cause a momentary or temporary interruption.

Sustained Interruption is defined by IEEE 1159 as the decrease in the voltage supply level to zero for more than one (1) minute. It is classified as a long duration voltage variation phenomena. Sustained interruptions are often permanent in nature and may require manual intervention for restoration.

Accordingly, it will be understood that, in practice, some temporary short- duration interruptions (e.g. having a duration in the range of 5 seconds to 1 minute) may be too long in duration to be practicable for proposed embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the short-duration interruption may preferably be in a range from 1 to 30 seconds, more preferably in a range from 2 to 20 seconds, and most preferably in a range from 3 to 10 seconds. Further, in some embodiments, the short-duration interruption may preferably be at least 1 second, more preferably at least 2 seconds, and most preferably at least 3 seconds. Yet further, in some embodiments, the short-duration interruption may preferably be equal to or less than 30 seconds, more preferably equal to or less than 20 seconds, most preferably equal to or less than 10 seconds. Thus, according to preferred embodiments, the control unit may be adapted to change a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to an instantaneous or momentary interruption in a power supply to the lighting apparatus.

An exemplary embodiment will now be described with reference to a lighting apparatus, wherein the lighting unit comprises LED light sources and wherein the non lighting unit comprises an ionizer for generating ions (e.g. positive and/or negative (charged) particles). It is to be understood that this is only exemplary and other types of light units and non-lighting units may be employed by proposed embodiments. For instance, in alternative embodiments, the non-lighting unit may provide one or more alternative functions, and so may comprise a device such as a speaker, fan, IR proximity sensor, smoke detector, and the like. Similarly, embodiments may employ one or more light sources other than LEDs, such as an incandescent or fluorescent light source.

Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a perspective view of an LED lamp with integrated ionizer according to an embodiment. The LED lamp comprises: a lamp body 1; a lamp cap 2 arranged on the upper part of the lamp body 1; and LED light sources 3 arranged on the lower part of the lamp body 1. Here, the LED light sources 3 are referred to as the luminous body 3.

The lamp cap 2 of this embodiment is a lamp cap body with a thread 21, and the lamp cap 2 is configured to be mated and connected with a conventional screw-type lamp holder, which facilitates the connection of the LED lamp to an electrical power supply (e.g. mains circuit).

The lamp body 1 is provided with a circuit board (not visible) with an ionizer 4 (i.e. ion generator) for generating positive and/or negative (charged) ions. The ionizer 4 may for example, comprise one or more needles and/or one or more brushes. The LED luminous body 3 is electrically connected to the circuit board, and the circuit board includes a power interface 5 for supplying power (from an electrical power supply) to the ionizer 4 and the LED luminous body 3.

The circuit board also includes a control unit 6 (i.e. control circuit) for controlling the working state of the ionizer 4 and the LED luminous body 3. Specifically, the control unit 6 of this embodiment is adapted to control the LED lamp to operate in one of four possible operating states:

State 0 - the ionizer 4 and the LED illuminator 3 are turned off at the same time; State 1 - the ionizer 4 is turned off and the LED light-emitting body 3 is turned on;

State 2 - the ionizer 4 and the LED illuminator 3 are turned on at the same time; and

State 3 - the ionizer 4 is turned on and the LED illuminator 3 is turned off.

Changing the mode of the ionizer 4 is undertaken responsive to a short- duration interruption in a power supply to the LED lamp. That is, the control unit 6 is configured to detect a short-duration interruption in power received by the power interface 5 and to change a mode of the ionizer 4 responsive to a detected short-duration interruption.

The control unit 6 may, for example, comprise a microprocessor or controller circuit that is responsive to control signals generated by one or more sensors or detection circuits. With a microprocessor or controller, a buffer may be used to maintain power during interruptions.

By counting the duration of an interruption, the controller can determine if the interruption is instantaneous or momentary interruption (e.g. with reference to a predetermined threshold for distinguishing instantaneous or momentary interruption from sustained interruptions).

Here, the embodiment is configured to cater for interruptions in power caused by a user toggling a switch of the power supply ‘off and on again’ (or ‘on and off again’) in quick succession (e.g. within less than one second). Thus, the control unit 6 is configured to change a mode of the ionizer 4 responsive to an instantaneous or momentary interruption in power supply to the LED lamp. This can, for example, be done by modifying a supply voltage (e.g. lowering) to the ionizer 4 and/or applying a different pulsed voltage to the ionizer 4.

By way of example only, the operation of the embodiment of Figure 1 may be summarized as follows:

(i) Turn on the LED lamp (via a switch that controls the power supply to the LED lamp) : LED illuminator 3 is turned on and ionizer 4 is off (i.e. State 1);

(ii) A first momentary interruption in power supply: the ionizer 4 is turned on and the LED illuminator 3 remains on (i.e. State 2);

(ii) A second momentary interruption in power supply: the ionizer 4 remains on and the LED illuminator 3 turns off (i.e. State 3); and

(iii) A third momentary interruption in power supply: the ionizer turns off and the LED light source turns on (i.e. State 1).

In above-detailed exemplary operation, the control unit 6 is configured to switch the ionizer from a current mode to a new mode, wherein the new operation mode is based on the current mode. That is, the control unit 6 is adapted to cause the LED lamp with integrated ionizer 4 to transition from a current state to a next state (responsive to a momentary interruption in a power supply to the LED lamp), with the next state of the ionizer being dependent on the current state of the ionizer 4.

The lamp body 22 is also provided with supplementary indicator LEDs 22 for indicating a mode of the ionizer 4. In this way, the LED lamp may indicate a level of ion generation via a visual indication provided in the form of light emission from the supplementary indicator LEDs 22. Specifically, when the ionizer 4 is on, the control unit 6 turns on the supplementary indicator LEDs 22 so that they emit light. Conversely, when the ionizer 4 is not on, the control units turns of the supplementary indicator LEDs so that they do not emit light. The supplementary indicator LEDs therefore provide a visual indication as to whether or not the ionizer 4 is on.

It will be appreciated, however, that alternative approaches may be employed to provide an indication of the mode of the ionizer 4. For example, the LED lamp may comprise any suitable output interface for outputting a mode indication as a visual and/or audible signal. For instance, a speaker may be integrated with the lamp to provide a periodic audible signal (e.g. beep) to indicate that the ionizer is in a certain mode (e.g. switched on).

By way of further example, the LED lamp may be configured to alter a characteristic (such as color, color temperature or brightness level) of the illumination from the LED illuminator 3 to provide the mode indication. That is, general illumination provided by the LED lamp may be used for indicating the mode of the ionizer 4.

In this example, the characteristic of the illumination from the LED illuminator is altered from a first color temperature (CT1) into a second color temperature (CT2). In embodiments, preferably ICT1-CT2I>300K, more preferably ICT1-CT2I>400K, and most preferably ICT1-CT2I>500K. A minimum difference between CT1 and CT2 may be preferable to better distinguish the mode (i.e. provide a clear mode indication. However, it is noted that, in some embodiments preferably ICT1-CT2I<1500K, more preferably ICT 1 - CT2 1200K, most preferably ICT1-CT2I<1000K. That is, it may be preferable that the difference between the two color temperatures is not too large.

In other examples, the characteristic of the illumination from the LED illuminator is altered from a first brightness level (BL1) to a second brightness level (BL2).

In such embodiments, preferably BR2>1.2BR1, more preferably BR2>1.5BR1, and most preferably BR2>2BR1. Further, instead of altering brightness level, embodiments may alter light intensity level or luminous flux level. Other modifications may be made to the embodiment described above with reference to Figure 1.

By way of example, in the first mode, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions at a first ion generation rate (Rl), and, in the second mode, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions at a second, different ion generation rate (R2). The second ion generation rate (R2) may be greater than the first ion generation rate (Rl). For instance, in some embodiments, preferably R1>R2, more preferably R1>1.5R2, and most preferably R1>2R2. Also, in some embodiments, preferably 0.8>R1/R2>1.2, more preferably 0.7>R1/R2>1.5, and most preferably 0.5>R1/R2>2. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the second ion generation rate may be less than the first ion generation rate.

Alternatively, or additionally, in some embodiments, the ionizer may be configured to generate ions for a first duration of time (Tl) when in the first mode, and configured to generate ions for a second, different duration of time (T2), when in the second mode. The second duration of time (T2) may be greater than the first duration of time (Tl). For instance, in some embodiments, preferably T1<T2, more preferably T1<1.5T2, most and preferably T1<2T2. Also, in some embodiments, preferably 0.8>T1/T2>1.2, more preferably 0.7>T1/T2>1.5, and most preferably 0.5>T1/T2>2. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the second duration of time (T2) may be less than the first duration of time (Tl).

Furthermore, more than two different modes may be provided and switched between, wherein each of the three or more modes are different (e.g. have differing operating parameters/characteristics). For instance, more than two ionization rates and/or durations may be employed, such as 100%, 50%, and 10% rate and/or duration for example.

Also, in some embodiments, the lighting apparatus lamp may be configured to generate a mode change indication for indicating a change in mode of the ionizer. In this way, the lighting apparatus lamp may provide a confirmation signal for confirming that the mode of the ionizer has been changed. By way of example, the lighting apparatus lamp may be configured to alter a characteristic (such as color, color temperature and/or brightness level) of the illumination from the lighting unit to provide the mode change indication.

For instance, an embodiment may be adapted such that the lighting unit provides white light having a first color temperature and/or first brightness level. Subsequently, a change in ion generation rate and/or duration is applied, wherein the mode change indication is provided by controlling the lighting unit to provide green light for short duration of time (e.g. in the range of 0.5 to 30 second). The lighting unit then reverts to providing white light having the first color temperature and/or first brightness. It will be appreciated that other colors may be employed to provide the mode change indication.

Referring now to Figures 2A-2D, a purely exemplary implementation of the embodiment of Figure 1 will be described. Figures 2A-2D comprise timing graphs showing variations in operating parameter values with respect to time.

Figure 2A shows an exemplary variation of the power supply (current I or voltage V) to the LED lamp with respect to elapsed time.

Figure 2B shows a corresponding variation of ion generation rate of the ionizer of the LED lamp with respect to elapsed time.

Figure 2C shows a corresponding variation of brightness level of the illumination from the LED illuminator with respect to elapsed time.

Figure 2D shows a corresponding variation of color temperature of the illumination from the LED illuminator with respect to elapsed time.

At time t = tl, the power supply to the LED lamp is turned on (i.e. switched on). The power supply to the LED lamp thus instantaneously increases from zero to nominal operating value (e.g. 230 V). Consequently, the brightness level of the illumination from the LED illuminator increases from zero to first brightness level B1 and the color temperature of the illumination from the LED illuminator increases to first color temperature CT1. At time t=l, the ionizer remains off, thus generating ions at a first ion generation rate of zero (i.e. R1=0).

Subsequently, at time t=t2, a short-duration interruption in power occurs. That is, the power supply to the LED lamp briefly decreases to zero and then increases back to the nominal operating value (e.g. 230 V) (e.g. in less than one second). This interruption in supply power is caused by a user toggling a switch of the power supply ‘off and on again’ in quick succession.

In response to the short-duration interruption in power at time t=t2, the control unit switches the ionizer from off to on. As a result, at time t=t2, the ion generation rate increases from zero to second ion generation rate R2.

Also, at time t=t2, the brightness level of the illumination from the LED illuminator briefly decreases from the first brightness level B 1 to zero and then increases back to the first brightness level B1 (e.g. in less than one second). This brief drop in brightness level acts as a mode change indication for indicating a change in mode of the ionizer. Yet further at time t=t2, the color temperature of the illumination from the LED illuminator briefly decreases from the first color temperature CT1 to zero (i.e. no color temperature) and then increases to a second, higher color temperature CT2. This change in color temperature acts a mode indication for indicating the mode of the ionizer. That is, the increased color temperature of the illumination indicates that the ionizer is turned on and generating ions at the second ion generation rate R2.

Thus, it will be understood from the explanation above (with reference to Figures 2A, 2C & 2D) that when the power supply is zero (i.e. during the short-duration interruption in power supply), there is no light from the LED illuminator (i.e. the brightness level is zero and there is no color temperature).

However, in alternative embodiments where a capacitor or battery is employed, the LED illuminator may remain on during the short-duration interruption, such that, at time t=t2, the brightness level briefly decreases from the first brightness level B1 to a second, lower (but non-zero) brightness level B2 (wherein B2<B1).

Later, at time t=t3, another short-duration interruption in power occurs. That is, the power supply to the LED lamp briefly decreases to zero and then increases back to the nominal operating value (e.g. 230 V) (e.g. in less than one second). This interruption in supply power is caused by a user toggling a switch of the power supply ‘off and on again’ in quick succession for a second time.

In response to the short-duration interruption in power at time t=t3, the control unit switches the ionizer from on to off. As a result, at time t=t3, the ion generation rate decreases from the second ion generation rate R2 to zero.

Also, at time t=t3, the brightness level of the illumination from the LED illuminator briefly decreases from the first brightness level B1 to zero and then increases back to the first brightness level B1 (e.g. in less than one second). This brief drop in brightness level acts as a mode change indication for indicating a change in mode of the ionizer.

Yet further, at time t=t3, the color temperature of the illumination from the LED illuminator decreases from the second color temperature CT2 to zero (i.e. no color temperature) and then reverts to the first, lower color temperature CT1. This change in color temperature acts as a mode indication for indicating the mode of the ionizer. That is, the decreased color temperature of the illumination indicates that the ionizer is turned off and not generating ions (i.e. the ion generation rate is zero). Later, at time t=t4, the power supply to the LED lamp is turned off (i.e. switched off) and remains off. The power supply to the LED lamp thus instantaneously decreases to zero from the nominal operating value. Responsive to power supply remaining off, the brightness level of the illumination from the LED illuminator decreases from the first brightness level B1 to zero and the color temperature of the illumination from the LED illuminator decreases from the first color temperature CT1 to zero. That is, the LED illuminator is turned off.

As mentioned above, other types of light units and non-lighting units may be employed by proposed embodiments. For instance, in alternative embodiments, the non lighting unit may comprise a fan for moving air (e.g. for cooling, heating or filtering purposes).

Thus, purely by way of additional illustration, an exemplary operation of a lighting apparatus according to an embodiment will described with reference to Figures 3 A & 3B, wherein the non-lighting unit comprises a rotary fan.

Figures 3 A & 3B comprise timing graphs showing variations in operating parameter values of an embodiment with respect to time. Specifically, Figure 3 A shows an exemplary variation of the power supply (current I or voltage V) to the lighting apparatus with respect to elapsed time, and Figure 3B shows a corresponding variation of fan speed (rotations per minute) of the rotary fan with respect to elapsed time.

At time t = tl, the power supply to the lighting apparatus is turned on (i.e. switched on). The power supply to the lighting apparatus thus instantaneously increases from zero to nominal operating value (e.g. 230 V). Also, the fan is turned on and operates in a first mode in which the fan rotates at a first fan speed SI. Thus, at t = tl, the fan speed increases from zero to first fan speed S 1.

Subsequently, at time t=t2, a short-duration interruption in power occurs. That is, the power supply to the lighting apparatus briefly decreases to zero and then increases back to the nominal operating value (e.g. 230 V) (e.g. in less than one second). This interruption in supply power is caused by a user toggling a switch of the power supply ‘off and on again’ in quick succession.

In response to the short-duration interruption in power at time t=t2, the control unit switches the fan from the first mode to a second mode in which the fan rotates at a second fan speed S2. Thus, at time t=t2, the fan speed briefly decreases from the first fan speed SI to zero (due to the interruption in power supply) and then increases to the second fan speed S2 (e.g. in less than one second).

Later, at time t=t3, another short-duration interruption in power occurs. That is, the power supply to the lighting apparatus briefly decreases to zero and then increases back to the nominal operating value (e.g. 230 V) (e.g. in less than one second). This interruption in supply power is caused by a user toggling a switch of the power supply ‘off and on again’ in quick succession for a second time.

In response to the short-duration interruption in power at time t=t3, the control unit switches the fan from the second mode to a third operating in which the fan rotates at a third fan speed S3. Thus, at time t=t3, the fan speed briefly decreases from the second fan speed S2 to zero (due to the interruption in power supply) and then increases to the third fan speed S3 (e.g. in less than one second).

Later, at time t=t4, the power supply to the lighting apparatus is turned off (i.e. switched off) and remains off. The power supply to the lighting apparatus thus instantaneously decreases to zero from the nominal operating value. Responsive to power supply remaining off, the fan switches off and the fan speed thus reduces to zero.

The above example of Figures 3 A and 3B, thus also illustrates how the non lighting unit of embodiments may have more than two modes that are switched between responsive to interruptions in power supply.

Other variations or modifications may be implemented in proposed embodiments. For example, in other embodiments, an output interface may be provided for outputting the mode change indication as a visual and/or audible signal (such as pulsing beep for example). By way of further example, the control unit may be implemented using an analog circuitry approach (rather than a microcontroller). For instance, a capacitor may be discharged when an interruption in the power occurs, and if the discharging takes too long (e.g. the voltage across the capacitor falls below a threshold value), it may be determined that the interruption is sustained and thus not indicative of a mode change signal.

The lighting apparatus may comprise a plurality of non-lighting units, and such a plurality of non-units may provide the same or different non-lighting functions. For instance, embodiments may comprise a plurality of ionizers. That is, in some embodiments, a plurality of ionizers may be integrated in the lighting apparatus.

The lighting apparatus may comprise one or more apertures, and such apertures may be configured to support or assist a function of the non-lighting unit. For instance, embodiments may be provided with one or more air inlets (e.g. for air intake) and/or one or more air outlets (e.g. for expelling ionized air). Other embodiments may be provided with an array of apertures for assisting/supporting output of sound from a speaker integrated in the lighting apparatus.

Embodiments may include a power converter for converting a received power supply into a supply for the lighting unit and/or the non-lighting unit. In this way, the lighting apparatus may be connected to an AC mains supply, and the power convertor may convert the AC mains power supply so that it is suitable for the normal working voltage of the lighting unit and/or the non-lighting unit. Also, the power interface may comprise a high- voltage AC input interface and a low-voltage DC input interface. In this way, the potential scope of application of the proposed lighting apparatus may be extended so that it may not only be for connection to a mains power supply, but instead may also be used in automobiles, portable equipment or places with batteries or accumulators.

It is further proposed that the control unit may further control changing a mode of the non-lighting unit based on the timing of the short-duration interruption with respect to a predetermined time window. In this way, switching between the different modes may be restricted to a certain time window/frame, e.g. within 2-30 seconds of switching on/off the lighting apparatus. Put another way, some embodiments may restrict the ability to switch between the different functions of the non-lighting unit based on time and/or past usage of the lighting apparatus. For such embodiments, a clock or timing module may be employed.

Referring to Figure 4, there is shown a schematic representation of a lighting system according to an embodiment.

The lighting system comprises a lighting apparatus 40 and an external switch 42 mutually connected by means of a power wire 44. The lighting apparatus 40 comprises a housing 46, a lighting unit 48 configured to emit light, a non-lighting unit 50, a power interface 52 for receiving power for at least one of the lighting unit 48 and the non-lighting unit 50 and a control unit 54 configured to detect an interruption in power received by the power interface 52 and to change a mode of the non-lighting unit 50 or the lighting unit 48 responsive to a detected interruption in power.

The non-lighting unit 50 may comprise: an ionizer, a fan, a loudspeaker, a camera, a sensor, a fluid dispenser, an air filter, a cooling unit, or a heating unit. In this example, the non-lighting unit 50 comprises an air filter 50 situated in the housing 46. To allow the passage of air to/from the air filter 50, the housing 46 is provided with a plurality of apertures (i.e. air inlet/outlet grill) 56. In alternative embodiments, the non-lighting unit 50 may be (at least) partly outside the housing. For instance, the non-lighting unit may comprise a fan wherein the motor for the fan is inside the housing and the blades are outside the housing.

From the above description of various embodiments, it will be understood that there are proposed concepts for enabling a supplementary function of a lighting apparatus with an integrated non-lighting unit to be controlled via control of a power supply to the lighting apparatus. Here, integrated means that the lighting unit and the non-lighting unit share the same housing. Thus, an existing switch for controlling the power supply to a lighting apparatus may be provided with improved (e.g. additional) functionality. For instance, a conventional on/off toggle may gain a secondary/supplementary function of changing the mode of the ionizer of a lighting apparatus according to a proposed embodiment. In other embodiments, a switch (or other user interface) may be provided which is adapted to an interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus responsive to a predetermined user interaction with the switch. Such user interaction may for example comprise an input gesture (such as a swipe, movement or touch, input pattern, etc.) or pattern of user inputs.

A proposed lighting apparatus with non-lighting unit may, for example, be used in conjunction with conventional electrical power supply circuits (e.g. mains power supply circuit) that employ conventional non-dimming and/dimming switches. Such implementations of lighting systems may facilitate simple and easy control of a proposed lighting apparatus, because a mode of the non-lighting unit may be changed by a simple ‘toggle’ operation of a conventional switch that also controls the power supply to the lighting apparatus.

The description above has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain principles of proposed embodiments, practical application(s), and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand various embodiments with various modifications are contemplated.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A lighting apparatus comprising: a lighting unit (3) configured to emit light; a non-lighting unit (4) configured to operate in a plurality of different modes; a power interface (5) for receiving power for at least one of the lighting unit and the non-lighting unit; and a control unit (6) configured to detect an interruption in power received by the power interface and to change a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to a detected interruption in power.

2. The lighting apparatus of claim 1, wherein the interruption in power is an instantaneous or momentary interruption.

3. The lighting apparatus claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit (6) is adapted to switch the non-lighting unit (4) from a current mode to a new mode based on the current mode.

4. The lighting apparatus of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit (6) is adapted to switch the non-lighting unit from a first mode to a second mode, wherein, in the first mode, an operating parameter of the non-lighting unit is configured to have a first value (Rl), and wherein, in the second mode, the operating parameter of the non-lighting unit is configured to have a second, different value (R2).

5. The lighting apparatus of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the lighting apparatus is configured to generate a mode indication for indicating a mode of the non-lighting unit.

6. The lighting apparatus of claim 5, wherein the control unit is configured to control the lighting unit to alter a characteristic of its emitted light to generate the mode indication, preferably wherein the characteristic comprises at least one of color, color temperature and brightness level.

7. The lighting apparatus of claim 5 or 6, wherein the lighting apparatus comprises an output interface (22) configured to output the mode indication as a visual and/or audible signal.

8. The lighting apparatus of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lighting apparatus is configured to generate a mode change indication for indicating a change in mode of the non-lighting unit.

9. The lighting apparatus of claim 8, wherein the control unit (6) is configured to control the lighting unit (3) to alter a characteristic of its emitted light to generate the mode change indication, preferably wherein the characteristic comprises at least one of color, color temperature and brightness level.

10. The lighting apparatus of claim 8 or 9, wherein the lighting apparatus comprises an output interface (22) configured to output the mode change indication as a visual and/or audible signal.

11. The lighting apparatus of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control unit (6) is adapted to change a mode of the non-lighting unit further based on the time of occurrence of the short-duration interruption with respect to a predetermined time window.

12. The lighting apparatus of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the control unit (6) is adapted to switch the lighting unit from a first lighting mode to a second lighting mode, wherein, in the first lighting mode, an operating parameter of the lighting unit is configured to have a first lighting value (LI), and wherein, in the second lighting mode, the operating parameter of the lighting unit is configured to have a second, different lighting value (L2).

13. The lighting apparatus of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the non-lighting unit comprises at least one of: an ionizer (4); a fan; a loudspeaker; a camera; a sensor; a fluid dispenser; an air filter; a cooling unit; or a heating unit.

14. A lighting system comprising: a lighting apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 13; and a switch configured to control the power supply to the lighting apparatus, wherein the switch is configured to cause an interruption in power supply to the lighting apparatus responsive to a predetermined user interaction with the switch.

15. A method of controlling lighting apparatus having a lighting unit (3) configured to emit light and a non-lighting unit (4) configured to operate in a plurality of different modes, the method comprising: detecting an interruption in power received by the lighting apparatus; and changing a mode of the non-lighting unit responsive to the detected interruption in power.