EP3527043B1 - Led lighting device, particularly for vehicles - Google Patents
Led lighting device, particularly for vehicles Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3527043B1 EP3527043B1 EP17787373.4A EP17787373A EP3527043B1 EP 3527043 B1 EP3527043 B1 EP 3527043B1 EP 17787373 A EP17787373 A EP 17787373A EP 3527043 B1 EP3527043 B1 EP 3527043B1
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- led
- transistor
- channel
- led chain
- current
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Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
- H05B45/40—Details of LED load circuits
- H05B45/44—Details of LED load circuits with an active control inside an LED matrix
- H05B45/46—Details of LED load circuits with an active control inside an LED matrix having LEDs disposed in parallel lines
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
- H05B45/30—Driver circuits
- H05B45/37—Converter circuits
- H05B45/3725—Switched mode power supply [SMPS]
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
- H05B45/50—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B45/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED]
- H05B45/50—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits
- H05B45/52—Circuit arrangements for operating light-emitting diodes [LED] responsive to malfunctions or undesirable behaviour of LEDs; responsive to LED life; Protective circuits in a parallel array of LEDs
Definitions
- the invention relates to an LED lighting device, in particular for vehicles.
- the invention relates to devices and methods for supplying LED chains with electrical energy with the possibility of individual LED short-circuit detection.
- LED lighting devices for vehicles have been state of the art for several years. LED lamps are preferred to filament lamps because of their lifespan and immunity to interference.
- LED lighting devices for vehicles so-called LED chains are sometimes used, which are series circuits of several LEDs.
- so-called multi-channel energy supply units are known as ICs, which have failure monitoring for each channel in the form of, for example, a current or voltage detector. While a power interruption through the LED chain as well as a total short circuit of the LED chain can be detected quite easily by the detector, the detection of individual LED short circuits causes problems. This is because the voltage drop across an LED chain that is in normal operation is unfortunately not constant and depends in particular on the age of the LEDs, their temperature, etc. A voltage drop that changes slightly, as occurs, for example, with a single LED short circuit, can therefore definitely not be detected as a short circuit.
- Devices for operating LED chains i.e. LED series circuits, are off DE-A-10 2008 037 551 , DE-A-10 2009 028 101 , AT-U-005 190 , US-A-2008/0204029 and WO-A-2012/077013 known.
- the invention relates to a device for supplying at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 with electrical energy, in which the failure of individual LEDs within the LED chains due to an LED short circuit, hereinafter denoted by the reference symbol SC, represents a fault to be detected.
- Integrated circuits which are used to supply such LED chains electrically, have the option of recognizing and subsequently signaling an interruption in the current path within one of these LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 .
- the detection of individual LED short circuits is not possible in the prior art.
- a method for detecting a short circuit in a first light emitting diode element in which the first light emitting diode element is operated as part of a special measurement in the blocked area, it is checked whether an electric current is flowing in the blocking direction via the first light emitting diode element, and the short circuit is detected if the check shows that the current flows in the reverse direction and is greater than a specified leakage current.
- Such a methodology is unsuitable for short-circuit detection in an LED chain.
- the invention is therefore based on the object of creating a solution which does not have the above disadvantages of the prior art and has further advantages.
- the invention proposes a lighting device, in particular for vehicles, which is provided with the features of claim 1.
- Individual embodiments of the invention are the subject matter of the subclaims.
- the essential feature of the invention is to couple two LED chains of an LED lighting device to one another and to provide each LED chain with an interrupter switch.
- the controllable breaker switches are coupled to one another by a coupling component arrangement. If the voltage difference between the control connections of the interrupter switches of the two LED chains exceeds a predeterminable value, which, depending on the specification or request, in the case of a single LED short circuit or a short circuit of a predeterminable, comparatively small number of LEDs in one of the LED chains of the If this is the case, this disturbance and the associated reduction in the voltage across the "disturbed" LED chain have an effect on a change in the voltage across the coupling component arrangement, so that it becomes conductive and thus the circuit breaker of the other LED chain activated, so that the interrupter circuit of this other LED chain opens, which in turn can be reliably detected by the detector that is assigned to this other LED chain.
- a single LED short circuit or a short circuit of two or fewer LEDs in one of the LED chains is converted into an interruption in the other LED chain.
- the driver for this other LED chain is provided with a corresponding error detector which detects the interruption of the LED chain.
- only one interrupter switch per LED chain and a coupling component arrangement, which must fulfill the function of electrically conducting from a predeterminable voltage drop, are required. In the simplest case, this is implemented using diodes.
- only a few electronic components are therefore required in order to implement the invention, so to speak, as an "add on" to a power or, in general, energy supply unit for a multi-channel LED lighting device.
- the coupling component arrangement only enables a current flow with a predeterminable sign of the voltage drop across it or, depending on the sign of the voltage drop across it, enables a current flow in one direction or in the opposite direction.
- the coupling component arrangement has one or more diodes, which can be connected in antiparallel to enable a current flow in both directions.
- the monitoring device has a number of coupling component arrangements equal to the number of LED chains when there are more than two LED chains, the control connections of the interrupter switches assigned to the LED chains are cyclically coupled by means of a coupling component arrangement and thus as a ring circuit.
- each coupling component arrangement enables a current flow in the same direction through the ring circuit.
- the monitoring device UWE has a number of coupling component arrangements equal to the number of LED chains if there are more than two LED chains, the control connections of the interrupter switches assigned to the LED chains by means of the coupling component arrangements (KBA) in are coupled to a star connection.
- each coupling component arrangement enables unidirectional current flows.
- interrupter switches are designed as bipolar, FET or MOS transistors.
- the invention relates to the energy supply for electroluminescent light sources which, as circuit arrangements, are not designed for a specific application. However, it is particularly suitable for use in automotive lights. In the broadest sense, it is therefore a monitoring device for arrangements of signaling or lighting devices or arrangements of optical signaling or lighting devices or arrangements of lighting devices for the vehicle interior or arrangements or special design of portable emergency signaling devices on vehicles.
- the invention is thus concerned with a device for supplying at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 with electrical energy, in which the failure of individual LEDs within the LED chains due to an LED short circuit, hereinafter referred to as SC denotes, represents a fault to be detected.
- Integrated circuits which are used to supply such LED chains electrically, have the option of recognizing and subsequently signaling an interruption in the current path within one of these LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 .
- the detection of individual LED short circuits is not possible in the prior art.
- the invention is based on the object of creating a solution which does not have the above disadvantages of the prior art and has further advantages.
- the integrated circuit at least in applications for the automotive industry, has tools for detecting an interruption in the flow of current in one or more of the connected LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , it is thus able to detect an error and to be issued as such. It it was recognized here that it is usually not important to be able to state which error (short circuit of a single LED or interruption of an LED chain) is present and on which LED chain this error is present. Thus, this information can be sacrificed in favor of a single LED short circuit detection.
- a method for the detection of a single LED failure in a lighting device with at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 the first step being the detection of a single LED short circuit in a first LED chain which provides at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 by a first detection means and an interruption of the current flow caused by this detection through at least one other LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 an interruption means.
- a first transistor T 1 and a first diode D 1 in cooperation with a first resistor R 1 such as, for example, in FIG Fig. 3 shown to be proposed.
- the corresponding detection means of the respective other LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 is proposed as the interruption means.
- the transistor thus has a dual function as a detection means and as an interruption means. This doesn't necessarily have to be the case.
- transistor T 2 in Fig. 3 referenced for clarification.
- the single LED short circuit is converted into an LED chain interruption in another LED chain. This then establishes the measurability and thus the detectability by the integrated circuit, which solves the technical problem.
- the last step is therefore the detection of the interruption of the current flow through the other LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 .
- the proposed device for supplying at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 with electrical energy is characterized from the fact that it has a partial device StOC, which in the event of a short circuit of one or more LEDs within a first LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3, a detection and / or subsequent signaling of an interruption of the current path within a Another LED chain of these at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , hereinafter the second LED chain, brings about.
- the prerequisite is that the proposed device has measuring means MI 1 , MU 1 ; MI 1 , MU 2 ; MI 3 , MU 3 for detecting an interruption in an LED chain and suitable signaling means to be able to pass on (signal) the detection result to a control device .
- the particular advantage here lies in the conversion of the appearance of an individual LED short circuit into an LED chain interruption, which can be detected by the integrated circuit (the device).
- a transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is located in each current path of each LED chain of these at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3.
- This is preferably a bipolar transistor.
- each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is part of the sub-device.
- each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is conductive.
- At least one transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 of the second LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 hereinafter referred to as the second transistor, is switched off when the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 a short circuit SC occurs along the LED chain.
- This construction has the advantage that it is very compact and can be implemented with a few components.
- At least one transistor of the first LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 hereinafter referred to as the first transistor, is a bipolar transistor T. 1 , T 2 , T 2 and that at least the second transistor of the second LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 is also a bipolar transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 2 acts.
- the base of the first transistor is connected to the base of the second transistor via at least one diode D 1 , D 2 , D 3 , D 11 , D 12 , D 21 , D 22 , D 31 , D 32 directly or indirectly, in particular via one Series resistor R v1 , R v2 , connected.
- the base of the first transistor is energized by means of an operating point setting in such a way that the transistor can be safely switched through during normal operation.
- this operating point setting takes place via an operating point resistor R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , which connects the control connection (the base or the gate) of the first transistor to the energy source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 of the first LED Chain, in whose current path the first transistor is located, connects.
- the advantage of this arrangement is that the first transistor is conductive during normal operation and, in the event of a fault, the base current can be sucked through the base-emitter diode of the corresponding transistor of the other LED chain in the event of a single LED short circuit, whereby the first transistor closes locking begins.
- MOS transistors are firstly not current-controlled and secondly do not have the necessary base-emitter diode that carries out the actual LED short-circuit detection, the detection function for the individual LED short-circuit must be used when using MOS transistors and the interrupt function for interrupting the current flow through the LED chain can be separated. The detection function is then performed by a separate detection device. This can be, for example, a separate PN diode, an auxiliary diode.
- This auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 is necessary as a detection device if, instead of a bipolar transistor, a MOS transistor is used as the transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3.
- the relevant auxiliary diode is then connected between the gate of the MOS transistor as the second node K 12 , K 22 , K 23 of the relevant LED chain and the connection node K 13 , K 23 , K 33 ) between MOS transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and the relevant LED chain switched.
- the polarity of the auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 is selected in accordance with the transistor type during the interconnection.
- the auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 of the LED chain in question then emulates the function of the base-emitter diode of a bipolar transistor as a detection device and forces the potential of a transistor of another channel to a potential at that the gate-source path no longer has sufficient voltage, as a result of which it begins to block if there is a short circuit of one or more LEDs along the relevant LED chain.
- MOS transistors the functions of the detection device (first auxiliary diode) and interruption device (transistor) are separated, while in the case of bipolar transistors they can be carried out simultaneously (transistor alone) by the bipolar transistors.
- the auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 is therefore not absolutely necessary.
- the construction with auxiliary diodes and MOS transistors is particularly advantageous because it enables complete integration into integrated CMOS circuits within the framework of standard CMOS processes.
- the device links several LED chains with one another.
- the device now comprises at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 .
- the configuration of the device deals with a special topology of the interconnection of the short-circuit-to-interruption converter StOC.
- each current path of each LED chain of these at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 there is a respective transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , in particular a bipolar transistor.
- Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is again part of the sub-device.
- Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is connected again in such a way that it is conductive in error-free operation.
- At least one of the transistors T 1 , T 2 , T 3 of the LED chains that are not affected by the short circuit is always switched to the blocking state. This happens when a short circuit occurs along the LED chain in at least one other LED chain of the at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , which is not the LED chain of the switched-off transistor.
- the control connection (base or gate) of each transistor of a preceding LED chain is here connected to the control connection (base or gate) of the following transistor via at least one diode D 1 , D 2 , D 3 , D 11 , D 12 , D 21 , D 22 , D 31 , D 32 directly or indirectly, in particular via a resistor R v1 , R v2 , R v3 , connected.
- the words "preceding” and “following” relate to a virtual numbering of the m LED chain from 1 to m. The LED chain follows the LED chain with the lower number and precedes the one with the higher number.
- the first LED chain should be understood here as the successor to the m-th LED chain and the m-th LED chain as the preceding one of the first LED chain. All elements of a preceding LED chain are therefore referred to herein as "preceding". All elements of a subsequent LED chain as subsequent.
- the control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is energized by means of an operating point setting. Particularly preferred is the control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor via an operating point resistor R 1 , R 2 , R 3 with the energy source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 of the associated LED chain, in whose current path the preceding transistor is located. connected.
- the control connection (base or gate) of the downstream transistor is connected to a connection of the downstream LED chain to which it is connected via an associated downstream auxiliary diode.
- the control terminal (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is connected to a terminal of the preceding LED chain, to which it is connected, via an associated preceding auxiliary diode.
- the device also has at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 and these are now to be connected together in a star shape via diodes instead of ring-shaped, as described above.
- the device also has at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 and these are now to be connected together in a star shape via diodes instead of ring-shaped, as described above.
- each current path of each LED chain of these three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 there is again a respective transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , in particular a bipolar transistor or MOS transistor with a control connection (base or Gate) and two further connections each.
- Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is again part of the respective sub-device.
- Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is connected again in such a way that it is conductive in error-free operation.
- At least one of these transistors T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is always switched off when in at least one other LED chain of the at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 that are not blocking the LED chain switched transistor, a short circuit occurs along the affected LED chain.
- the control connection (base or gate) of each transistor in a preceding LED chain is now connected to the control connection (base or gate) of the following transistor via at least two series-connected diode pairs D 11 , D 12 ; D 21 , D 22 ; D 31 , D 32 each of two diodes D 11 , D 12 ; D 21 , D 22 ; D 31 , D 32 connected in anti-parallel.
- the diodes have two connections.
- Each diode can be connected in series with a resistor.
- the control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is energized by means of an operating point setting. This energization is particularly preferably carried out in such a way that the control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is connected to the energy source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 of the associated LED chain via an operating point resistor R 1 , R 2 , R 3 The current path where the preceding transistor is located is connected.
- the control connection (base or gate) of the downstream transistor is connected to a connection of the downstream LED chain to which it is connected via an associated downstream auxiliary diode.
- the control terminal (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is connected to a terminal of the preceding LED chain, to which it is connected, via an associated preceding auxiliary diode.
- the diodes are connected in such a way that they are connected to a connection with a common star point (SP).
- a first lighting channel CH 1 comprises the first energy source - here the first current source IS 1 - the first LED chain L 1 with the LEDs L 11 , L 12 , ... L 1n and first measuring means MI 1 , MU 1 .
- the first channel comprises a first current measuring means MI 1 , which detects the value of the first electrical current I 1 fed into the first LED chain L 1 by the energy source.
- a first detector DE 1 in the form of a first voltage measuring means MU 1 detects the voltage drop across the first LED chain L 1 .
- the first channel CH 1 typically comprises at least one of these first measuring means.
- a second lighting channel CH 2 comprises the second energy source - here the second current source IS 2 - the second LED chain L 2 with the LEDs L 21 , L 22 , ..., L 2n and second measuring means MI 2 , MU 2 .
- the second channel CH 2 comprises a second current measuring means MI 2 , which detects the value of the second electrical current I 2 fed into the second LED chain L 2 by the second energy source.
- a second voltage measuring means 2 detects MU as a detector DE 2 the voltage drop across the second LED string L2.
- the second channel CH 2 typically comprises at least one of these second measuring means. In other words, at least the second current measuring means MI 2 or the second voltage measuring means MU 2 (detector D 2 ) in order to be able to detect an interruption in the second LED chain L 2.
- a monitoring device UWE is arranged between the (multi-channel) power supply unit SVE and the LED chains L 1 , L 2 , in which, according to the invention, a short circuit of one LED or a few LEDs in one of the LED chains results in an interruption in another of the LED chains. Chains "transfer" what is recognized by the detector assigned to this interrupted LED chain.
- the monitoring device UWE thus has a short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC, which conducts one end of the first LED chain L 1 in normal operation to the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 , and one end of the second LED -Chain L 2 in normal operation electrically conductively connects to the second energy source, here the second current source IS 2.
- the short-circuit-to-interrupt converter evaluates particularly preferably StOC the potential of the third node K 13 of the first lighting channel (CH 1 ) relative to a reference potential - preferably ground - from.
- the short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC interrupts the electrical connection between the second energy source, here the second current source IS 2 , and the second LED chain L 2 .
- the second measuring means, the second voltage measuring means MU 2 and / or the second current measuring means MI 2 , ie the second detector DE 2 to detect this interruption and to cause a corresponding error message.
- the short-circuit-to-interruption converter StOC particularly preferably acts symmetrically. In other words, if there is a change in voltage drop across the second LED chain L 2 over a certain amount, the short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC disconnects the electrical connection between the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 and the first LED chain L 1 in analogous way. This enables the first measuring means, the first voltage measuring means MU 1 and / or the first current measuring means MI 1 , ie the first detector DE 1 , to detect this interruption and to cause a corresponding error message.
- Fig. 2 shows a simple implementation of this principle.
- the first LED chain L 1 is monitored for individual LED short circuits, while the second LED chain L 2 is used for signaling.
- a first transistor T 1 (first interrupter switch) is an NPN bipolar transistor in this example. This is connected with its collector to a first node K 11 of the first channel CH 1 . With this first node K 11 of the first channel CH 1 , the first voltage measuring means MU 1 (first detector DE 1 ) and the first current source IS 1 as the first energy source may also be connected connected. The first current measuring means MI 1 , which may be present, is connected in series with the first current source IS 1. The sequence of the first current source IS 1 and the first current measuring means MI 1 can be varied. The first node K n of the first channel CH 1 is connected to the base of the first transistor T 1 by means of a first resistor R 1 . This sets the operating point of the first transistor T 1 .
- the first resistor R 1 energizes the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1 , which is therefore conductive in the normal state.
- the emitter of the first transistor T 1 at K 13 is connected to one end of the first LED chain L 1 . This connection is the third electrical node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 .
- the other end of the first LED chain L 1 is connected to the reference potential, here to ground.
- the base of the first transistor T 1 forms the second electrical node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 .
- a second transistor T 2 (second interrupter switch) is also an NPN bipolar transistor in this example. This is connected with its collector to a second node K 21 of the second channel CH 2 . With this second node K 21 of the second channel CH 2 , the second voltage measuring means MU 2 (second detector DE 2 ) and the second current source IS 2 as a second energy source may also be connected.
- the second current measuring means MI 2 which may be present, is connected in series with the second current source IS 2. The sequence of the second current source IS 2 and the second current measuring means MI 2 can be varied.
- the first node K 21 of the second channel CH 2 is connected to the base of the second transistor T 2 by means of a second resistor R 2 . This sets the operating point of the second transistor T 2 .
- the second resistor R 2 energizes the base-emitter diode of the second transistor (T 2 ), which is therefore conductive in the normal state.
- the emitter of the second transistor T 2 is connected to one end of the second LED chain L 2 . This connection is the third electrical node K 23 of the second channel CH 2 .
- the the other end of the second LED chain L 2 is connected to the reference potential, here to ground.
- the base of the second transistor T 2 forms the second electrical node K 22 of the first channel CH 2 .
- the monitoring device UWE has, as a coupling component arrangement KBA connected between the base connections K 12 , K 21 of the transistors T 1 , T 2 , a first diode D 1 which forms the base of the first transistor T 1 , i.e. the second node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 , connects to the base of the second transistor T 2 , that is to say the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2.
- the electrical connection between the second node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 and the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2 is normally interrupted because of the diode D 1 , since the voltage drop across the first LED chain L 1 and the second LED chain L 2 should be equal to the same current flow, and thus no current flow through the diode D 1 drops causing voltage difference across the diode D 1, whose threshold voltage is therefore not achieved.
- symmetrical relationships are assumed here. This means an equal number n of LEDs in the two LED chains and an equal first current I 1 and a second current I 2 .
- the currents I 1 , I 2 of the two current sources IS 1 , IS 2 set to the same values result in the same electrical potential for the respective third node K 13 , K 23 of the first channel CH 1 and of the second channel CH 2 .
- the resistance of the first resistor R 1 is chosen to be equal to the resistance of the second resistor R 2
- the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1 is supplied with the same current as the base-emitter diode of the second transistor T 2 .
- the first transistor T 1 has properties which are the same as the properties of the second transistor T 2. This means that the same base-emitter voltages drop across the base-emitter-diode paths.
- the potential on both sides of the first diode D 1 must therefore be the same in normal operation and no current flows.
- neither the resistors R 1 , R 2 , nor the transistors T 1 , T 2 , nor the LEDs of the LED chains L 1 ; L 2 will be identical, but will differ from one another. Therefore, it is It makes sense to choose the switching voltage of the first diode D 1 or the coupling component arrangement KBA in a suitable manner.
- Zener diodes or series connections of diodes can be used.
- germanium diodes or other diodes with a suitable switching voltage modified using suitable materials instead of silicon diodes In any case, a simulation (eg Monte Carlo) should clarify which diode switching voltages require the components to be scattered. However, this differs depending on the application and should therefore not be discussed further here.
- a short circuit SC of the first LED L 11 of the first LED string L 1 the current flow is through the first LED string L 1 on the current value of the first current I 1 of the first current source IS. 1
- the potential of the third node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 with respect to the reference potential drops by an LED switching voltage, ie by the voltage that drops across each of the preferably identical LEDs when the first current flows through them.
- the switching voltage of the first diode D 1 should therefore be selected to be less than or equal to the switching voltages of the LEDs used in the first LED chain L 1 . It is preferably between 5% and 90% lower than the switching voltage of the LEDs. If necessary, the first diode can also be replaced by an electrical circuit with the same effect with amplifiers, etc., which shows a suitable switching voltage. When the first diode D 1 is mentioned here, this refers to the effect of this component or a circuit replacing this component, ie to a coupling component arrangement KBA of whatever type, which becomes conductive from a predetermined switching voltage.
- the first diode D 1 opens, the current that has previously flowed through the base-emitter diode of the second transistor T 2 flows through the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1 .
- the second LED chain L 2 is switched off (T 2 opens). This reduces the current consumption of the current of the second current source IS 2 , which can be detected by the second measuring means MI 2 , MU 2 (detector DE 2). On the basis of this detection, an interruption is then typically detected and, if necessary, signaled.
- the remaining second diode D 2 of the second channel CH 2 is only used to illustrate the potential possibility of sequencing (coupling of two LED chains in each case when a large number of LED chains are present).
- the potential of the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2 is only 13.4 V instead of 15.7 V.
- the potential of the third node K 23 of the second channel CH 2 by 0.7 V corresponding to the base-emitter voltage of the second transistor T 2 lower at 12.7 V.
- This drop in the second current I 2 can be detected directly by the second current measuring means MI 2 or as a changing voltage drop across the second current source IS 2 by the second voltage measuring means (detector DE 2 ).
- the relationships correspond to an interruption in the second LED chain L 2 and are recognized as such by the second measuring means of the second channel CH 2 .
- Fig. 3 essentially agrees Fig. 2 match.
- the LED chains are connected to the supply voltage "upside down".
- the supply voltage V bat now serves as a reference potential.
- the first transistor T 1 and the second transistor T 2 are now, by way of example, PNP transistors.
- the first diode D 1 is also rotated in order to establish functionality. Otherwise, the functionality is similar to that of Fig. 2 .
- the Fig. 4 equals to Fig. 2 with the difference that N-channel MOS transistors are used instead of the NPN bipolar transistors for the first transistor T 1 and the second transistor T 2 .
- N-channel MOS transistors are used instead of the NPN bipolar transistors for the first transistor T 1 and the second transistor T 2 .
- the function of the base-emitter diode that has been eliminated must be replaced. This is done by a first auxiliary diode HD 1 .
- the current flow via the first auxiliary diode HD 1 is set via the first resistor R 1 , so that it is open during normal operation.
- the first transistor T 1 is preferably installed in such a way that the source of the first transistor T 1 is connected to the third node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 .
- the Fig. 5 equals to Fig. 3 with the difference that P-channel MOS transistors are used instead of the PNP bipolar transistors for the first transistor T 1 and the second transistor T 2 .
- the function of the base-emitter diode that has been eliminated must be replaced. This is done by a first auxiliary diode HD 1 .
- the current flow via the first auxiliary diode HD 1 is set via the first resistor R 1 , so that it is open during normal operation.
- the first transistor T 1 is preferably installed in such a way that the source of the first transistor T 1 is connected to the third node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 .
- Fig. 6 equals to Fig. 2 with the difference that the coupling component arrangement KBA has a second diode D 2 , which is connected in anti-parallel to the first diode D 1 .
- the second channel CH 2 can now also interrupt the flow of current in the first channel CH 1 in the event of a single LED short circuit in the second LED chain L 2 and thus cause the detection of an LED chain interruption via the first channel CH 1.
- Fig. 7 equals to Fig. 6 with the difference that the first diode D 1 and the second diode D 2 of the coupling component arrangement KBA are each provided with a series resistor R v1 , R v2 .
- These series resistors enable the circuit to be asymmetrical. This is particularly necessary if the LED chains are not the same or the rated currents I 1 , I 2 are already different in normal operation.
- the possibility of replacing the first diode D 1 and / or the second diode D 2 by more complex circuits with the same effect has already been pointed out above. In reality, it can be useful if the first diode D 1 has a different switching voltage than the second diode D 2 .
- Fig. 8 corresponds to two Figs. 2 , in which three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 are used in three channels.
- the coupling component arrangement KBA has three diodes D 1 , D 2 , D 3 , which are triangular, ie connected as a ring circuit, so that a circular current flow - via the first diode D 1, then via the second diode D 2, then via the third diode D. 3 and then again via the first diode D 1 - would be possible.
- the principle can be extended accordingly to a positive integer k of channels CH 1 to CH k. As a result, all LED chains of any number k of LED chains are monitored for individual LED short circuits.
- Fig. 9 shows a coupling component arrangement KBA for star-shaped interconnection of three channels for three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 .
- Two of the channels correspond to the interconnection according to Fig. 6 with the difference that the first diode D 1 and the second diode D 2 of the Fig. 6 are now formed by four diodes (e.g. D 11 , D 12 and D 21 and D 22 ). Since now two diode voltages drop across the first diode D 1 and second diode D 2 replaced in this way , it can be useful to replace the diodes D 11 , D 12 , D 21 , D 22 , D 31 , D 32 with diodes with a correspondingly reduced switching voltage or to replace corresponding circuits with the same function.
- An LED in the sense of this disclosure is not just a single light-emitting diode but can also be a series and / or parallel connection of several light-emitting diodes, which may also include further components, such as Zener diodes and / or series and parallel resistors and capacitors. They are typically two-pole circuits with a first connection that serves as a current input and a second connection that serves as a current output. If the LEDs are serially connected to one another in an LED chain, it is conceivable that further lines, for example as control lines for other purposes, are routed along the LED chain in whole or in part, which, however, is not claimed here are, if necessary, should not limit the claimed scope to pure two-pole individual light-emitting diodes.
- the LED chains are preferably of the same length, that is to say they preferably contain the same number of LEDs with preferably the same diode switching voltages (U D ).
- An LED chain in the sense of this disclosure is a series connection of at least two LEDs, all of which are oriented in the same way, so that a current flow is possible.
- the switching voltage of a diode, auxiliary diode or LED is the voltage at which the diode, auxiliary diode or LED begins to conduct.
- the switching voltage determines the greatest voltage drop across the coupling component arrangement at which it switches through.
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- Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)
Description
Die Erfindung betrifft eine LED-Beleuchtungsvorrichtung, insbesondere für Fahrzeuge. Insbesondere betrifft die Erfindung Vorrichtungen und Verfahren zur Versorgung von LED-Ketten mit elektrischer Energie mit der Möglichkeit der Einzel-LED-Kurzschlusserkennung.The invention relates to an LED lighting device, in particular for vehicles. In particular, the invention relates to devices and methods for supplying LED chains with electrical energy with the possibility of individual LED short-circuit detection.
LED-Beleuchtungsvorrichtungen für Fahrzeuge gehören bereits seit mehreren Jahren zum Stand der Technik. LED-Leuchtmittel werden auf Grund ihrer Lebensdauer und Störunanfälligkeit gegenüber Glühfaden-Leuchtmitteln bevorzugt.LED lighting devices for vehicles have been state of the art for several years. LED lamps are preferred to filament lamps because of their lifespan and immunity to interference.
Bei LED-Beleuchtungsvorrichtungen für Fahrzeuge werden mitunter sogenannte LED-Ketten eingesetzt, bei denen es sich um Reihenschaltungen aus mehreren LEDs handelt. Als Treiber derartiger LED-Beleuchtungsvorrichtungen sind sogenannte Mehrkanal-Energieversorgungseinheiten als ICs bekannt, die pro Kanal eine Ausfallüberwachung in Form beispielsweise eines Strom- oder Spannungsdetektors aufweisen. Während eine Stromunterbrechung durch die LED-Kette sowie ein Gesamtkurzschluss der LED-Kette durch den Detektor recht einfach erkannt werden können, bereitet die Detektion von LED-Einzelkurzschlüssen Probleme. Dies liegt daran, dass der Spannungsabfall über einer im Normalbetrieb befindlichen LED-Kette leider nicht konstant ist und insbesondere vom Alter der LEDs, deren Temperatur, etc., abhängig ist. Ein geringfügig sich verändernder Spannungsabfall, wie er beispielsweise bei einem Einzel-LED-Kurzschluss auftritt, lässt sich also zweifelsfrei nicht als Kurzschluss detektieren.In LED lighting devices for vehicles, so-called LED chains are sometimes used, which are series circuits of several LEDs. As drivers of such LED lighting devices, so-called multi-channel energy supply units are known as ICs, which have failure monitoring for each channel in the form of, for example, a current or voltage detector. While a power interruption through the LED chain as well as a total short circuit of the LED chain can be detected quite easily by the detector, the detection of individual LED short circuits causes problems. This is because the voltage drop across an LED chain that is in normal operation is unfortunately not constant and depends in particular on the age of the LEDs, their temperature, etc. A voltage drop that changes slightly, as occurs, for example, with a single LED short circuit, can therefore definitely not be detected as a short circuit.
Vorrichtungen zum Betreiben von LED-Ketten, also LED-Serienschaltungen, sind aus
Die Erfindung befasst sich mit einer Vorrichtung zur Versorgung mindestens zweier LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 mit elektrischer Energie, bei der der Ausfall einzelner LEDs innerhalb der LED-Ketten durch einen LED-Kurzschluss, im Folgenden mit dem Bezugszeichen SC bezeichnet, einen zu detektierenden Fehler darstellt. Typischerweise verfügen integrierte Schaltungen, die der elektrischen Versorgung solcher LED-Ketten dienen, über die Möglichkeit einer Erkennung und anschließenden Signalisierung einer Unterbrechung des Strompfades innerhalb einer dieser LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3. Die Erkennung von Einzel-LED-Kurzschlüssen ist jedoch im Stand der Technik nicht möglich.The invention relates to a device for supplying at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 with electrical energy, in which the failure of individual LEDs within the LED chains due to an LED short circuit, hereinafter denoted by the reference symbol SC, represents a fault to be detected. Integrated circuits, which are used to supply such LED chains electrically, have the option of recognizing and subsequently signaling an interruption in the current path within one of these LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 . However, the detection of individual LED short circuits is not possible in the prior art.
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Solche Schaltungen sind nicht in ein kleines Gehäuse einer integrierten Schaltung einbaubar, da sie zu viele Anschlüsse erfordern.Such circuits cannot be built into a small integrated circuit package because they require too many connections.
Der Erfindung liegt also die Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine Lösung zu schaffen, die die obigen Nachteile des Standes der Technik nicht aufweist und weitere Vorteile aufweist.The invention is therefore based on the object of creating a solution which does not have the above disadvantages of the prior art and has further advantages.
Insbesondere ist es Aufgabe der Erfindung, eine Beleuchtungsvorrichtung, insbesondere für Fahrzeuge, zu schaffen, bei der mehrere LED-Ketten auf einen Einzel-LED-Kurzschluss hin untersucht werden können, und zwar mit möglichst geringem schaltungstechnischem Aufwand.In particular, it is the object of the invention to create a lighting device, in particular for vehicles, in which several LED chains can be examined for a single LED short circuit, with the least possible amount of circuitry.
Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe wird mit der Erfindung eine Beleuchtungsvorrichtung, insbesondere für Fahrzeuge, vorgeschlagen, die versehen ist mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1. Einzelne Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind Gegenstand der Unteransprüche.To solve this problem, the invention proposes a lighting device, in particular for vehicles, which is provided with the features of
Wesensmerkmal der Erfindung ist es, jeweils zwei LED-Ketten einer LED-Beleuchtungsvorrichtung miteinander zu verkoppeln und jede LED-Kette mit einem Unterbrecherschalter zu versehen. Die ansteuerbaren Unterbrecherschalter sind durch eine Koppelbauteilanordnung miteinander gekoppelt. Sofern die Spannungsdifferenz zwischen den Steueranschlüssen der Unterbrecherschalter der beiden LED-Ketten einen vorgebbaren Wert überschreitet, was je nach Vorgabe bzw. Wunsch im Falle eines Einzel-LED-Kurzschlusses oder eines Kurzschlusses einer vorgebbaren vergleichsweise geringen Anzahl von LEDs in einer der LED-Ketten der Fall ist, wirkt sich diese Störung und die damit verbundene Verringerung der Spannung über der "gestörten" LED-Kette auf eine Veränderung der Spannung über der Koppelbauteilanordnung aus, so dass diese leitend wird und damit den Unterbrecherschalter der jeweils anderen LED-Kette aktiviert, so dass der Unterbrecherschaltung dieser anderen LED-Kette öffnet, was wiederum zuverlässig durch den Detektor, der dieser anderen LED-Kette zugeordnet ist, detektiert werden kann.The essential feature of the invention is to couple two LED chains of an LED lighting device to one another and to provide each LED chain with an interrupter switch. The controllable breaker switches are coupled to one another by a coupling component arrangement. If the voltage difference between the control connections of the interrupter switches of the two LED chains exceeds a predeterminable value, which, depending on the specification or request, in the case of a single LED short circuit or a short circuit of a predeterminable, comparatively small number of LEDs in one of the LED chains of the If this is the case, this disturbance and the associated reduction in the voltage across the "disturbed" LED chain have an effect on a change in the voltage across the coupling component arrangement, so that it becomes conductive and thus the circuit breaker of the other LED chain activated, so that the interrupter circuit of this other LED chain opens, which in turn can be reliably detected by the detector that is assigned to this other LED chain.
Erfindungsgemäß findet also eine Umsetzung eines Einzel-LED-Kurzschlusses oder eines Kurzschlusses zweier bzw. weniger LEDs in einer der LED-Ketten in eine Unterbrechung der anderen LED-Kette statt. Der Treiber für diese andere LED-Kette ist, wie oben ausgeführt, mit einem entsprechenden Fehlerdetektor versehen, der die Unterbrechung der LED-Kette erkennt. Damit bedarf es für die Realisierung der Erfindung lediglich eines Unterbrecherschalters pro LED-Kette und einer Koppelbauteilanordnung, die die Funktion erfüllen muss, ab einem vorgebbaren Spannungsabfall elektrisch zu leiten. Dies wird im einfachsten Fall durch Dioden realisiert. Es sind also letztendlich nur wenige elektronische Bauteile erforderlich, um die Erfindung sozusagen als "Add on" einer Strom- bzw. allgemein ausgedrückt Energieversorgungseinheit für eine mehrkanalige LED-Beleuchtungsvorrichtung zu realisieren.According to the invention, a single LED short circuit or a short circuit of two or fewer LEDs in one of the LED chains is converted into an interruption in the other LED chain. As explained above, the driver for this other LED chain is provided with a corresponding error detector which detects the interruption of the LED chain. Thus, for the implementation of the invention, only one interrupter switch per LED chain and a coupling component arrangement, which must fulfill the function of electrically conducting from a predeterminable voltage drop, are required. In the simplest case, this is implemented using diodes. Ultimately, only a few electronic components are therefore required in order to implement the invention, so to speak, as an "add on" to a power or, in general, energy supply unit for a multi-channel LED lighting device.
In vorteilhafter Weiterbildung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Koppelbauteilanordnung nur bei einem vorgebbaren Vorzeichen der über ihr abfallenden Spannung einen Stromfluss ermöglicht oder in Abhängigkeit von dem Vorzeichen der über ihr abfallenden Spannung einen Stromfluss in der einen oder in der entgegengesetzten anderen Richtung ermöglicht.In an advantageous further development of the invention, it can be provided that the coupling component arrangement only enables a current flow with a predeterminable sign of the voltage drop across it or, depending on the sign of the voltage drop across it, enables a current flow in one direction or in the opposite direction.
In vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Koppelbauteilanordnung ein oder mehrere Dioden aufweist, die zur Ermöglichung eines Stromflusses in beiden Richtungen antiparallel geschaltet sein können.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the coupling component arrangement has one or more diodes, which can be connected in antiparallel to enable a current flow in both directions.
In weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Überwachungseinrichtung bei mehr als zwei LED-Ketten eine der Anzahl der LED-Ketten gleichende Anzahl an Koppelbauteilanordnung aufweist, wobei die Ansteueranschlüsse der den LED-Ketten zugeordneten Unterbrecherschalter zyklisch mittels jeweils einer Koppelbauteilanordnung und damit als Ringverschaltung gekoppelt sind.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the monitoring device has a number of coupling component arrangements equal to the number of LED chains when there are more than two LED chains, the control connections of the interrupter switches assigned to the LED chains are cyclically coupled by means of a coupling component arrangement and thus as a ring circuit.
In weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass jede Koppelbauteilanordnung einen Stromfluss gleicher Richtung durch die Ringschaltung ermöglicht.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that each coupling component arrangement enables a current flow in the same direction through the ring circuit.
In vorteilhafter Weiterbildung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Überwachungseinrichtung UWE bei mehr als zwei LED-Ketten eine der Anzahl der LED-Ketten gleichende Anzahl an Koppelbauteilanordnungen aufweist, wobei die Ansteueranschlüsse der den LED-Ketten zugeordneten Unterbrecherschaltern mittels der Koppelbauteilanordnungen (KBA) in einer Sternverschaltung gekoppelt sind.In an advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided that the monitoring device UWE has a number of coupling component arrangements equal to the number of LED chains if there are more than two LED chains, the control connections of the interrupter switches assigned to the LED chains by means of the coupling component arrangements (KBA) in are coupled to a star connection.
In vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass jede Koppelbauteilanordnung unidirektionale Stromflüsse ermöglicht.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that each coupling component arrangement enables unidirectional current flows.
In weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann vorgesehen sein, dass die Unterbrecherschalter als bipolar-, FET- oder MOS-Transistoren ausgebildet sind.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the interrupter switches are designed as bipolar, FET or MOS transistors.
Wie bereits oben erläutert, betrifft die Erfindung die Energieversorgung für elektrolumineszierende Lichtquellen, die als Schaltungsanordnungen nicht für eine bestimmte Anwendung ausgebildet ist. Allerdings ist sie besonders für die Anwendung in automobilen Leuchten geeignet. Es handelt sich daher im weitesten Sinne um eine Überwachungsvorrichtung für Anordnungen von Signal- oder Beleuchtungsvorrichtungen oder Anordnungen von optischen Signal- oder Beleuchtungsvorrichtungen oder von Anordnungen von Beleuchtungsvorrichtungen für das Fahrzeuginnere oder von Anordnungen oder besondere Ausbildung von tragbaren Notsignalvorrichtungen an Fahrzeugen.As already explained above, the invention relates to the energy supply for electroluminescent light sources which, as circuit arrangements, are not designed for a specific application. However, it is particularly suitable for use in automotive lights. In the broadest sense, it is therefore a monitoring device for arrangements of signaling or lighting devices or arrangements of optical signaling or lighting devices or arrangements of lighting devices for the vehicle interior or arrangements or special design of portable emergency signaling devices on vehicles.
Die Erfindung befasst sich also mit einer Vorrichtung zur Versorgung mindestens zweier LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 mit elektrischer Energie, bei der der Ausfall einzelner LEDs innerhalb der LED-Ketten durch einen LED-Kurzschluss, im Folgenden mit dem Bezugszeichen SC bezeichnet, einen zu detektierenden Fehler darstellt. Typischerweise verfügen integrierte Schaltungen, die der elektrischen Versorgung solcher LED-Ketten dienen, über die Möglichkeit einer Erkennung und anschließenden Signalisierung einer Unterbrechung des Strompfades innerhalb einer dieser LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3. Die Erkennung von Einzel-LED-Kurzschlüssen ist jedoch im Stand der Technik nicht möglich.The invention is thus concerned with a device for supplying at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 with electrical energy, in which the failure of individual LEDs within the LED chains due to an LED short circuit, hereinafter referred to as SC denotes, represents a fault to be detected. Integrated circuits, which are used to supply such LED chains electrically, have the option of recognizing and subsequently signaling an interruption in the current path within one of these LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 . However, the detection of individual LED short circuits is not possible in the prior art.
Solche Schaltungen sind nicht in ein kleines Gehäuse einer integrierten Schaltung einbaubar, da sie zu viele Anschlüsse erfordern.Such circuits cannot be built into a small integrated circuit package because they require too many connections.
Wie oben ausgeführt, liegt der Erfindung also Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine Lösung zu schaffen, die die obigen Nachteile des Standes der Technik nicht aufweist und weitere Vorteile aufweist.As stated above, the invention is based on the object of creating a solution which does not have the above disadvantages of the prior art and has further advantages.
Es ist die Grundidee in dieser Offenbarung, die bereits vorhandene Erkennung von Unterbrechungen des Strompfades einer LED-Kette von mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 für die Erkennung eines Einzel-LED-Kurzschlusses in einer anderen LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 zu nutzen. Hierzu ist eine spezielle Teilvorrichtung notwendig, die zwischen die Energieversorgung, typischerweise eine Stromquelle IS1, IS2, IS3 innerhalb einer integrierten Schaltung, und die mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 eingefügt wird und diese so koppelt, dass ein Einzel-LED-Kurzschluss oder ein Kurzschluss in einigen wenigen (zwei, drei, vier) LEDs in einer LED-Kette zu einer Unterbrechung des Stromflusses in mindestens eine anderen LED-Kette führt. Da der integrierte Schaltkreis zumindest in Anwendungen für die Automobilindustrie über Hilfsmittel zur Erkennung einer Unterbrechung des Stromflusses in einer oder mehreren der angeschlossenen LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 verfügt, wird dieser somit in die Lage versetzt, einen Fehler zu erkennen und als solchen auszugeben. Es wurde hierbei erkannt, dass es in der Regel eben nicht wichtig ist, angeben zu können, welcher Fehler (Kurzschluss einer Einzel-LED oder Unterbrechung einer LED-Kette) vorliegt und an welcher LED-Kette dieser Fehler vorliegt. Somit können diese Informationen zu Gunsten einer Einzel-LED-Kurzschlusserkennung geopfert werden.It is the basic idea in this disclosure, the already existing detection of interruptions in the current path of an LED chain of at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 for the detection of a single LED short circuit in another LED chain to use at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 . This requires a special sub-device that is inserted between the power supply, typically a current source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 within an integrated circuit, and the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 and couples them in such a way that that a single LED short circuit or a short circuit in a few (two, three, four) LEDs in an LED chain leads to an interruption of the current flow in at least one other LED chain. Since the integrated circuit, at least in applications for the automotive industry, has tools for detecting an interruption in the flow of current in one or more of the connected LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , it is thus able to detect an error and to be issued as such. It it was recognized here that it is usually not important to be able to state which error (short circuit of a single LED or interruption of an LED chain) is present and on which LED chain this error is present. Thus, this information can be sacrificed in favor of a single LED short circuit detection.
Es wird daher ein Verfahren zur Detektion eines Einzel-LED-Ausfalls in einer Beleuchtungsvorrichtung mit mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 vorgeschlagen, das als ersten Schritt das Detektieren eines Einzel-LED-Kurzschlusses in einer ersten LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 durch ein erstes Detektionsmittel vorsieht und ein durch diese Detektion verursachtes Unterbrechen des Stromflusses durch mindestens eine andere LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 durch ein Unterbrechungsmittel. Im Folgenden Text wird offenbart, dass in dem hier vorgelegten Ausführungsbeispiel als erstes Detektionsmittel ein erster Transistor T1 und erste Diode D1 im Zusammenwirken mit einem ersten Widerstand R1, wie z.B. in
Zusammengefasst zeichnet sich die vorgeschlagene Vorrichtung zur Versorgung mindestens zweier LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 mit elektrischer Energie dadurch aus, dass Sie eine Teilvorrichtung StOC aufweist, die bei dem Kurzschluss einer oder mehrerer LEDs innerhalb einer ersten LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 eine Erkennung und/oder anschließenden Signalisierung einer Unterbrechung des Strompfades innerhalb einer anderen LED-Kette dieser mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3, im Folgenden die zweite LED-Kette, herbeiführt. Voraussetzung ist, dass die vorgeschlagene Vorrichtung über Messmittel MI1,MU1;MI1,MU2;MI3,MU3 zur Detektion einer Unterbrechung einer LED-Kette und geeignete Signalisierungsmittel verfügt um das Detektionsergebnis an eine Steuereinrichtung weitergeben (signalisieren) zu können.In summary, the proposed device for supplying at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 with electrical energy is characterized from the fact that it has a partial device StOC, which in the event of a short circuit of one or more LEDs within a first LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3, a detection and / or subsequent signaling of an interruption of the current path within a Another LED chain of these at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , hereinafter the second LED chain, brings about. The prerequisite is that the proposed device has measuring means MI 1 , MU 1 ; MI 1 , MU 2 ; MI 3 , MU 3 for detecting an interruption in an LED chain and suitable signaling means to be able to pass on (signal) the detection result to a control device .
Der besondere Vorteil liegt hierbei in der Umwandlung der Erscheinungsform eines LED-Einzelkurzschlusses in eine LED-Kettenunterbrechung, die durch den integrierten Schaltkreis (die Vorrichtung) detektierbar ist.The particular advantage here lies in the conversion of the appearance of an individual LED short circuit into an LED chain interruption, which can be detected by the integrated circuit (the device).
Eine weitere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Vorrichtung zeichnet sich nun dadurch aus, dass sich in jedem Strompfad jeder LED-Kette dieser mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 jeweils ein Transistor T1,T2,T3 befindet. Hierbei handelt es sich bevorzugt um einen Bipolar-Transistor. Hierbei ist jeder Transistor T1,T2,T3 Teil der Teilvorrichtung. Im fehlerfreien Betrieb ist jeder Transistor T1,T2,T3 leitend. Mindestens ein Transistor T1,T2,T3 der zweiten LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3, im Folgenden zweiter Transistor genannt, wird sperrend geschaltet, wenn in einer ersten LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 ein Kurzschluss SC längs der LED-Kette auftritt. Diese Konstruktion hat den Vorteil, dass sie sehr kompakt ist und sich mit wenigen Bauteilen realisieren lässt.Another embodiment of the proposed device is now characterized in that a transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is located in each current path of each LED chain of these at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3. This is preferably a bipolar transistor. Here, each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is part of the sub-device. In error-free operation, each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is conductive. At least one transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 of the second LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , hereinafter referred to as the second transistor, is switched off when the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 a short circuit SC occurs along the LED chain. This construction has the advantage that it is very compact and can be implemented with a few components.
Eine weitere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Vorrichtung zeichnet sich nun dadurch aus, dass es sich bei mindestens einem Transistor der ersten LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 im Folgenden erster Transistor genannt, um einen Bipolar-Transistor T1,T2,T2 handelt und dass es sich bei mindestens dem zweiten Transistor der zweiten LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 ebenfalls um einen Bipolar-Transistor T1,T2,T2 handelt. Dabei ist die Basis des ersten Transistors mit der Basis des zweiten Transistors über mindestens eine Diode D1,D2,D3,D11,D12,D21,D22,D31,D32 direkt oder indirekt, insbesondere über einen Vorwiderstand Rv1,Rv2, verbunden. Die Basis des ersten Transistors wird mittels einer Arbeitspunkteinstellung so bestromt, um den Transistor im Normalbetrieb sicher durchzuschalten. Besonders vorteilhaft ist es, wenn diese Arbeitspunkteinstellung über einen Arbeitspunktwiderstand R1,R2,R3 erfolgt, der den Steueranschluss (die Basis oder das Gate) des ersten Transistors den mit der Energiequelle IS1,IS2,IS3 der ersten LED-Kette, in deren Strompfad sich der erste Transistor befindet, verbindet.Another embodiment of the proposed device is characterized in that at least one transistor of the first LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , hereinafter referred to as the first transistor, is a bipolar transistor T. 1 , T 2 , T 2 and that at least the second transistor of the second LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 is also a bipolar transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 2 acts. The base of the first transistor is connected to the base of the second transistor via at least one diode D 1 , D 2 , D 3 , D 11 , D 12 , D 21 , D 22 , D 31 , D 32 directly or indirectly, in particular via one Series resistor R v1 , R v2 , connected. The base of the first transistor is energized by means of an operating point setting in such a way that the transistor can be safely switched through during normal operation. It is particularly advantageous if this operating point setting takes place via an operating point resistor R 1 , R 2 , R 3 , which connects the control connection (the base or the gate) of the first transistor to the energy source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 of the first LED Chain, in whose current path the first transistor is located, connects.
Der Vorteil dieser Anordnung ist, dass der erste Transistor im Normalbetrieb leitend ist und der Basisstrom im Fehlerfall durch die Basis-Emitter-Diode des entsprechenden Transistors der anderen LED-Kette bei einem Einzel-LED-Kurzschluss abgesaugt werden kann, wodurch der erste Transistor zu sperren beginnt. Da MOS-Transistoren zum ersten nicht stromgesteuert sind und zum zweiten nicht über die notwendige Basis-Emitter-Diode verfügen, die die eigentliche LED-Kurzschluss-Detektion durchführt, muss bei der Verwendung von MOS-Transistoren die Detektionsfunktion für den Einzel-LED-Kurzschluss und die Unterbrechungsfunktion für die Unterbrechung des Stromflusses durch die LED-Kette getrennt werden. Die Detektionsfunktion wird durch eine dann separate Detektionsvorrichtung wahrgenommen. Dabei kann es sich beispielsweise um eine separate PN-Diode, eine Hilfsdiode, handeln. Diese Hilfsdiode d1,d2,d3 wird als Detektionsvorrichtung notwendig, wenn statt eines Bipolar-Transistors als Transistor T1,T2,T3 ein MOS-Transistor verwendet wird. Die betreffende Hilfsdiode wird dann zwischen das Gate des MOS-Transistors als zweiten Konten K12,K22,K23 der betreffenden LED-Kette und dem Verbindungsknoten K13,K23,K33) zwischen MOS-Transistor T1,T2,T3 und der betreffenden LED-Kette geschaltet. Die Polarität der Hilfsdiode d1,d2,d3 wird dabei dem Transistortyp entsprechend bei der Verschaltung gewählt. Die Hilfsdiode d1,d2,d3 der betreffenden LED-Kette emuliert dann die Funktion der Basis-Emitter-Diode eines Bipolar-Transistors als Detektionsvorrichtung und zwingt das Potenzial eines Transistors eines anderen Kanals auf ein Potenzial bei dem die Gate-Source-Strecke keine ausreichende Spannung mehr aufweist, wodurch dieser zu Sperren anfängt, wenn es zu einem Kurzschluss einer einzelnen oder mehrere LEDs längs der betreffenden LED-Kette kommt. Bei der Verwendung von MOS-Transistoren sind also die Funktionen Detektionsvorrichtung (erste Hilfsdiode) und Unterbrechungsvorrichtung (Transistor) getrennt, während sie bei Bipolartransistoren durch die Bipolartransistoren gleichzeitig (Transistor alleine) durchgeführt werden können. Bei der Verwendung eines Bipolartransistors als Transistor T1,T2,T3 ist daher die Hilfsdiode d1,d2,d3 nicht zwingend erforderlich. Besonders vorteilhaft ist die Konstruktion mit Hilfsdioden und MOS-Transistoren daher, weil sie eine Komplettintegration in integrierte CMOS-Schaltungen im Rahmen von CMOS Standardprozessen ermöglicht.The advantage of this arrangement is that the first transistor is conductive during normal operation and, in the event of a fault, the base current can be sucked through the base-emitter diode of the corresponding transistor of the other LED chain in the event of a single LED short circuit, whereby the first transistor closes locking begins. Since MOS transistors are firstly not current-controlled and secondly do not have the necessary base-emitter diode that carries out the actual LED short-circuit detection, the detection function for the individual LED short-circuit must be used when using MOS transistors and the interrupt function for interrupting the current flow through the LED chain can be separated. The detection function is then performed by a separate detection device. This can be, for example, a separate PN diode, an auxiliary diode. This auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 is necessary as a detection device if, instead of a bipolar transistor, a MOS transistor is used as the transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3. The relevant auxiliary diode is then connected between the gate of the MOS transistor as the second node K 12 , K 22 , K 23 of the relevant LED chain and the connection node K 13 , K 23 , K 33 ) between MOS transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and the relevant LED chain switched. The polarity of the auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 is selected in accordance with the transistor type during the interconnection. The auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 of the LED chain in question then emulates the function of the base-emitter diode of a bipolar transistor as a detection device and forces the potential of a transistor of another channel to a potential at that the gate-source path no longer has sufficient voltage, as a result of which it begins to block if there is a short circuit of one or more LEDs along the relevant LED chain. When using MOS transistors, the functions of the detection device (first auxiliary diode) and interruption device (transistor) are separated, while in the case of bipolar transistors they can be carried out simultaneously (transistor alone) by the bipolar transistors. When using a bipolar transistor as the transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , the auxiliary diode d 1 , d 2 , d 3 is therefore not absolutely necessary. The construction with auxiliary diodes and MOS transistors is particularly advantageous because it enables complete integration into integrated CMOS circuits within the framework of standard CMOS processes.
Eine weitere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Vorrichtung zeichnet sich nun dadurch aus, dass die Vorrichtung mehrere LED-Ketten miteinander verknüpft. Dabei umfasst die Vorrichtung nun mindestens drei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3. Die Ausgestaltung der Vorrichtung befasst sich mit einer speziellen Topologie der Verschaltung der Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC. In jedem Strompfad jeder LED-Kette dieser mindestens drei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 befindet sich jeweils ein Transistor T1,T2,T3, insbesondere ein Bipolar-Transistor. Jeder Transistor T1,T2,T3 ist wieder Teil der Teilvorrichtung. Jeder Transistor T1,T2,T3 ist dabei wieder so beschaltet, dass er im fehlerfreien Betrieb leitend ist. Im Fehlerfall eines Kurzschlusses längs einer LED-Kette wird immer mindestens einer der Transistoren T1,T2,T3 der LED-Ketten sperrend geschaltet, die von dem Kurzschluss nicht betroffen sind. Dies geschieht wenn in mindestens einer anderen LED-Kette der mindestens drei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3, die nicht die LED-Kette des sperrend geschalteten Transistors ist, ein Kurzschluss längs der LED-Kette auftritt. Der Steueranschluss (Basis bzw. Gate) jedes Transistors einer vorausgehenden LED-Kette ist hier mit dem Steueranschluss (Basis bzw. Gate) des nachfolgenden Transistors über mindestens eine Diode D1,D2,D3,D11,D12,D21,D22,D31,D32 direkt oder indirekt, insbesondere über einen Widerstand Rv1,Rv2,Rv3, verbunden. Die Worte "vorausgehend" und "nachfolgend" beziehen sich hierbei auf eine virtuelle Nummerierbarkeit der m LED-Kette von 1 bis m. Hierbei folgt die LED-Kette der LED-Kette mit der niedrigeren Nummer nach und geht der mit der höheren Nummer voraus. Die erste LED-Kette soll hierbei als Nachfolgende der m-ten LED-Kette verstanden werden und die m-te LED-Kette als Vorausgehende der ersten LED-Kette. Alle Elemente einer vorausgehenden LED-Kette werden daher hier als "vorausgehend" bezeichnet. Alle Elemente einer nachfolgenden LED-Kette als nachfolgend. Der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des vorausgehenden Transistors wird mittels einer Arbeitspunkteinstellung bestromt. Besonders bevorzugt ist der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des vorausgehenden Transistors über einen Arbeitspunktwiderstand R1,R2,R3 mit der Energiequelle IS1,IS2,IS3 der zugehörigen LED-Kette, in deren Strompfad sich der vorausgehende Transistor befindet, verbunden. Im Falle eines MOS-Transistors als nachfolgenden Transistor ist der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des nachfolgenden Transistors mit einem Anschluss der nachfolgenden LED-Kette, mit der er verbunden ist, über eine zugehörige nachfolgende Hilfsdiode verbunden. Im Falle eines MOS-Transistors als vorausgehenden Transistor ist der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des vorausgehenden Transistors mit einem Anschluss der vorausgehenden LED-Kette, mit der er verbunden ist, über eine zugehörige vorausgehende Hilfsdiode verbunden. Das Besondere an dieser Ausgestaltung der Vorrichtung ist, dass die Dioden so geschaltet sind, dass sie einen kreisförmigen Stromfluss durch die Dioden hindurch gestatten. Die Kanäle sind also im Kreis miteinander verschaltet.Another embodiment of the proposed device is now characterized in that the device links several LED chains with one another. The device now comprises at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 . The configuration of the device deals with a special topology of the interconnection of the short-circuit-to-interruption converter StOC. In each current path of each LED chain of these at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 there is a respective transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , in particular a bipolar transistor. Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is again part of the sub-device. Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is connected again in such a way that it is conductive in error-free operation. In the event of a fault in a short circuit along an LED chain, at least one of the transistors T 1 , T 2 , T 3 of the LED chains that are not affected by the short circuit is always switched to the blocking state. This happens when a short circuit occurs along the LED chain in at least one other LED chain of the at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 , which is not the LED chain of the switched-off transistor. The control connection (base or gate) of each transistor of a preceding LED chain is here connected to the control connection (base or gate) of the following transistor via at least one diode D 1 , D 2 , D 3 , D 11 , D 12 , D 21 , D 22 , D 31 , D 32 directly or indirectly, in particular via a resistor R v1 , R v2 , R v3 , connected. The words "preceding" and "following" relate to a virtual numbering of the m LED chain from 1 to m. The LED chain follows the LED chain with the lower number and precedes the one with the higher number. The first LED chain should be understood here as the successor to the m-th LED chain and the m-th LED chain as the preceding one of the first LED chain. All elements of a preceding LED chain are therefore referred to herein as "preceding". All elements of a subsequent LED chain as subsequent. The control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is energized by means of an operating point setting. Particularly preferred is the control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor via an operating point resistor R 1 , R 2 , R 3 with the energy source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 of the associated LED chain, in whose current path the preceding transistor is located. connected. In the case of a MOS transistor as the downstream transistor, the control connection (base or gate) of the downstream transistor is connected to a connection of the downstream LED chain to which it is connected via an associated downstream auxiliary diode. In the case of a MOS transistor as the preceding transistor, the control terminal (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is connected to a terminal of the preceding LED chain, to which it is connected, via an associated preceding auxiliary diode. The special feature of this embodiment of the device is that the diodes are connected in such a way that they allow a circular current flow through the diodes. The channels are therefore interconnected in a circle.
Eine weitere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Vorrichtung zeichnet sich dadurch aus, dass die Vorrichtung ebenfalls mindestens drei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 aufweist und diese statt ringförmig, wie zuvor beschrieben nun sternförmig über Dioden miteinander zusammen geschaltet werden sollen. In jedem Strompfad jeder LED-Kette dieser drei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 befindet sich wieder jeweils ein Transistor T1,T2,T3, insbesondere ein Bipolar-Transistor oder MOS-Transistor mit einem Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) und jeweils zwei weiteren Anschlüssen. Jeder Transistor T1,T2,T3 ist wieder Teil der jeweiligen Teilvorrichtung. Jeder Transistor T1,T2,T3 ist wieder so beschaltet, dass er im fehlerfreien Betrieb leitend ist. Es wird wieder immer mindestens einer dieser Transistoren T1,T2,T3 sperrend geschaltet, wenn in mindestens einer anderen LED-Kette der mindestens drei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3, die nicht die LED-Kette des sperrend geschalteten Transistors ist, ein Kurzschluss längs der betroffenen LED-Kette auftritt. Der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) jedes Transistors einer vorausgehenden LED-Kette ist nun jedoch mit dem Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des nachfolgenden Transistors über mindestens zwei seriell hintereinander geschaltete Dioden-Paare D11,D12;D21,D22;D31,D32 aus jeweils zwei antiparallel verschalteten Dioden D11,D12;D21,D22;D31,D32 verbunden. Die Dioden weisen zwei Anschlüsse auf. Jede Diode kann mit einem Widerstand in Serie geschaltet sein. Der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des vorausgehenden Transistors wird mittels einer Arbeitspunkteinstellung bestromt. Besonders bevorzugt erfolgt diese Bestromung in der Weise, dass der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des vorausgehenden Transistors über einen Arbeitspunktwiderstand R1,R2,R3 mit der Energiequelle IS1,IS2,IS3 der zugehörigen LED-Kette, in deren Strompfad sich der vorausgehende Transistor befindet, verbunden ist. Im Falle eines MOS-Transistors als nachfolgenden Transistor ist der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des nachfolgenden Transistors mit einem Anschluss der nachfolgenden LED-Kette, mit der er verbunden ist, über eine zugehörige nachfolgende Hilfsdiode verbunden. Im Falle eines MOS-Transistors als vorausgehenden Transistor ist der Steueranschluss (Basis oder Gate) des vorausgehenden Transistors mit einem Anschluss der vorausgehenden LED-Kette, mit der er verbunden ist, über eine zugehörige vorausgehende Hilfsdiode verbunden. Die Dioden sind dabei so geschaltet, dass sie mit einem Anschluss mit einem gemeinsamen Sternpunkt (SP) verbunden sind.Another embodiment of the proposed device is characterized in that the device also has at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 and these are now to be connected together in a star shape via diodes instead of ring-shaped, as described above. In each current path of each LED chain of these three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 there is again a respective transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , in particular a bipolar transistor or MOS transistor with a control connection (base or Gate) and two further connections each. Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is again part of the respective sub-device. Each transistor T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is connected again in such a way that it is conductive in error-free operation. At least one of these transistors T 1 , T 2 , T 3 is always switched off when in at least one other LED chain of the at least three LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 that are not blocking the LED chain switched transistor, a short circuit occurs along the affected LED chain. The control connection (base or gate) of each transistor in a preceding LED chain is now connected to the control connection (base or gate) of the following transistor via at least two series-connected diode pairs D 11 , D 12 ; D 21 , D 22 ; D 31 , D 32 each of two diodes D 11 , D 12 ; D 21 , D 22 ; D 31 , D 32 connected in anti-parallel. The diodes have two connections. Each diode can be connected in series with a resistor. The control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is energized by means of an operating point setting. This energization is particularly preferably carried out in such a way that the control connection (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is connected to the energy source IS 1 , IS 2 , IS 3 of the associated LED chain via an operating point resistor R 1 , R 2 , R 3 The current path where the preceding transistor is located is connected. In the case of a MOS transistor as the downstream transistor, the control connection (base or gate) of the downstream transistor is connected to a connection of the downstream LED chain to which it is connected via an associated downstream auxiliary diode. In the case of a MOS transistor as the preceding transistor, the control terminal (base or gate) of the preceding transistor is connected to a terminal of the preceding LED chain, to which it is connected, via an associated preceding auxiliary diode. The diodes are connected in such a way that they are connected to a connection with a common star point (SP).
Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand mehrerer Ausführungsbeispiele und unter Bezugnahme auf die Zeichnung näher erläutert. Im Einzelnen zeigen dabei:
- Fig. 1
- schematisch vereinfacht das Grundprinzip der vorgeschlagenen Technischen Lösung mit einem Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC,
- Fig. 2
- eine einfache konkretere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Lösung mit NPN-Bipolar-Transistoren,
- Fig. 3
- eine einfache konkretere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Lösung mit PNP-Bipolar-Transistoren,
- Fig. 4
- eine einfache konkretere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Lösung mit N-Kanal-MOS-Transistoren,
- Fig. 5
- eine einfache konkretere Ausgestaltung der vorgeschlagenen Lösung mit P-Kanal-MOS-Transistoren,
- Fig. 6
- eine Schaltungsanordnung entsprechend derjenigen der
Fig. 2 mit dem Unterschied, dass die Teilvorrichtung, die den Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC bildet, in beide Richtungen wirkt, - Fig. 7
- eine Schaltungsanordnung entsprechend derjenigen der
Fig. 6 mit dem Unterschied, dass durch Vorwiderstände der Dioden eine Asymmetrie der LED-Ketten ausgeglichen werden kann, - Fig. 8
- eine Schaltungsanordnung entsprechend der kreisförmigen Aneinanderreihung mehrerer
Fign. 2 und - Fig. 9
- eine Schaltungsanordnung entsprechend der sternförmigen Zusammenschaltung mehrerer
Fign. 6 .
- Fig. 1
- schematically simplifies the basic principle of the proposed technical solution with a short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC,
- Fig. 2
- a simple, more concrete embodiment of the proposed solution with NPN bipolar transistors,
- Fig. 3
- a simple, more concrete embodiment of the proposed solution with PNP bipolar transistors,
- Fig. 4
- a simple, more concrete embodiment of the proposed solution with N-channel MOS transistors,
- Fig. 5
- a simple, more concrete embodiment of the proposed solution with P-channel MOS transistors,
- Fig. 6
- a circuit arrangement corresponding to that of
Fig. 2 with the difference that the sub-device that forms the short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC acts in both directions, - Fig. 7
- a circuit arrangement corresponding to that of
Fig. 6 with the difference that an asymmetry of the LED chains can be compensated by series resistors of the diodes, - Fig. 8
- a circuit arrangement corresponding to the circular juxtaposition of several
Figs. 2 and - Fig. 9
- a circuit arrangement corresponding to the star-shaped interconnection of several
Figs. 6th .
Zwischen der (Mehrkanal-)Stromversorgungseinheit SVE und den LED-Ketten L1,L2 ist eine Überwachungseinrichtung UWE angeordnet, in der erfindungsgemäß ein Kurzschluss einer LED bzw. einiger weniger LEDs in einer der LED-Ketten in eine Unterbrechung einer anderen der LED-Ketten "überführt", was von dem dieser unterbrochenen LED-Kette zugeordneten Detektor erkannt wird. Die Überwachungseinrichtung UWE weist also einen Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC auf, der das eine Ende der ersten LED-Kette L1 im Normalbetrieb elektrisch leitend mit der ersten Energiequelle, hier die erste Stromquelle IS1, und das eine Ende der zweiten LED-Kette L2 im Normalbetrieb elektrisch leitend mit der zweiten Energiequelle, hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2 verbindet. Besonders bevorzugt wertet der Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC das Potenzial des dritten Knotens K13 des ersten Beleuchtungskanals (CH1) relativ zu einem Bezugspotenzial - bevorzugt Masse - aus. In Abhängigkeit vom elektrischen Potenzial des dritten Knotens K13 des ersten Beleuchtungskanals CH1 relativ zu dem Bezugspotenzial unterbricht der Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC die elektrische Verbindung zwischen der zweiten Energiequelle, hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2, und der zweiten LED-Kette L2. Hierdurch werden die zweiten Messmittel, das zweite Spannungsmessmittel MU2 und/oder das zweite Strommessmittel MI2, d.h. der zweite Detektor DE2 in die Lage versetzt, diese Unterbrechung zu detektieren und eine entsprechende Fehlermeldung zu verursachen. Besonders bevorzugt wirkt der Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC symmetrisch. D.h. bei einer Spannungsabfalländerung über die zweite LED-Kette L2 über ein gewisses Maß hinweg trennt der Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler StOC die elektrische Verbindung zwischen der ersten Energiequelle, hier die erste Stromquelle IS1 und der ersten LED-Kette L1 in analoger Weise. Hierdurch werden die ersten Messmittel, das erste Spannungsmessmittel MU1 und/oder das erste Strommessmittel MI1, d.h. der erste Detektor DE1 analog in die Lage versetzt, diese Unterbrechung zu detektieren und eine entsprechende Fehlermeldung zu verursachen.A monitoring device UWE is arranged between the (multi-channel) power supply unit SVE and the LED chains L 1 , L 2 , in which, according to the invention, a short circuit of one LED or a few LEDs in one of the LED chains results in an interruption in another of the LED chains. Chains "transfer" what is recognized by the detector assigned to this interrupted LED chain. The monitoring device UWE thus has a short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC, which conducts one end of the first LED chain L 1 in normal operation to the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 , and one end of the second LED -Chain L 2 in normal operation electrically conductively connects to the second energy source, here the second current source IS 2. The short-circuit-to-interrupt converter evaluates particularly preferably StOC the potential of the third node K 13 of the first lighting channel (CH 1 ) relative to a reference potential - preferably ground - from. Depending on the electrical potential of the third node K 13 of the first lighting channel CH 1 relative to the reference potential, the short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC interrupts the electrical connection between the second energy source, here the second current source IS 2 , and the second LED chain L 2 . This enables the second measuring means, the second voltage measuring means MU 2 and / or the second current measuring means MI 2 , ie the second detector DE 2 , to detect this interruption and to cause a corresponding error message. The short-circuit-to-interruption converter StOC particularly preferably acts symmetrically. In other words, if there is a change in voltage drop across the second LED chain L 2 over a certain amount, the short-circuit-to-interrupt converter StOC disconnects the electrical connection between the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 and the first LED chain L 1 in analogous way. This enables the first measuring means, the first voltage measuring means MU 1 and / or the first current measuring means MI 1 , ie the first detector DE 1 , to detect this interruption and to cause a corresponding error message.
Zunächst wird der Aufbau des dem ersten Kanal CH1 zugeordneten Teils der Überwachungseinrichtung UWE beschrieben.First, the structure of the part of the monitoring device UWE assigned to the first channel CH 1 is described.
Ein erster Transistor T1 (erster Unterbrecherschalter) ist in diesem Beispiel ein NPN-Bipolar-Transistor. Dieser ist mit seinem Kollektor mit einem ersten Knoten K11 des ersten Kanals CH1 verbunden. Mit diesem ersten Knoten K11 des ersten Kanals CH1 sind auch gegebenenfalls das erste Spannungsmessmittel MU1 (erster Detektor DE1) und die erste Stromquelle IS1 als erste Energiequelle verbunden. In Serie mit der ersten Stromquelle IS1 ist das gegebenenfalls vorhandene erste Strommessmittel MI1 geschaltet. Die Reihenfolge von erster Stromquelle IS1 und erstem Strommessmittel MI1 kann variiert werden. Der erste Knoten Kn des ersten Kanals CH1 ist mittels eines ersten Widerstands R1 mit der Basis des ersten Transistors T1 verbunden. Hierdurch wird der Arbeitspunkt des ersten Transistors T1 eingestellt. Der erste Widerstand R1 bestromt die Basis-Emitter-Diode des ersten Transistors T1, der dadurch im Normalzustand leitend ist. Der Emitter des ersten Transistors T1 bei K13 ist mit einem Ende der ersten LED-Kette L1 verbunden. Diese Verbindung ist der dritte elektrische Knoten K13 des ersten Kanals CH1. Das andere Ende der ersten LED-Kette L1 ist mit dem Bezugspotenzial, hier mit Masse, verbunden. Die Basis des ersten Transistors T1 bildet den zweiten elektrischen Knoten K12 des ersten Kanals CH1.A first transistor T 1 (first interrupter switch) is an NPN bipolar transistor in this example. This is connected with its collector to a first node K 11 of the first channel CH 1 . With this first node K 11 of the first channel CH 1 , the first voltage measuring means MU 1 (first detector DE 1 ) and the first current source IS 1 as the first energy source may also be connected connected. The first current measuring means MI 1 , which may be present, is connected in series with the first current source IS 1. The sequence of the first current source IS 1 and the first current measuring means MI 1 can be varied. The first node K n of the first channel CH 1 is connected to the base of the first transistor T 1 by means of a first resistor R 1 . This sets the operating point of the first transistor T 1 . The first resistor R 1 energizes the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1 , which is therefore conductive in the normal state. The emitter of the first transistor T 1 at K 13 is connected to one end of the first LED chain L 1 . This connection is the third electrical node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 . The other end of the first LED chain L 1 is connected to the reference potential, here to ground. The base of the first transistor T 1 forms the second electrical node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 .
Nun wird der Aufbau des dem zweiten Kanal CH2 zugeordneten Teils der Überwachungseinrichtung UWE beschrieben.The structure of the part of the monitoring device UWE assigned to the second channel CH 2 will now be described.
Ein zweiter Transistor T2 (zweiter Unterbrecherschalter) ist in diesem Beispiel ebenfalls ein NPN-Bipolar-Transistor. Dieser ist mit seinem Kollektor mit einem zweiten Knoten K21 des zweiten Kanals CH2 verbunden. Mit diesem zweiten Knoten K21 des zweiten Kanals CH2 sind auch gegebenenfalls das zweite Spannungsmessmittel MU2 (zweiter Detektor DE2) und die zweite Stromquelle IS2 als zweite Energiequelle verbunden. In Serie mit der zweiten Stromquelle IS2 ist das gegebenenfalls vorhandene zweite Strommessmittel MI2 geschaltet. Die Reihenfolge von zweiter Stromquelle IS2 und zweitem Strommessmittel MI2 kann variiert werden. Der erste Konten K21 des zweiten Kanals CH2 ist mittels eines zweiten Widerstands R2 mit der Basis des zweiten Transistors T2 verbunden. Hierdurch wird der Arbeitspunkt des zweiten Transistors T2 eingestellt. Der zweite Widerstand R2 bestromt die Basis-Emitter-Diode des zweiten Transistors (T2), der dadurch im Normalzustand leitend ist. Der Emitter des zweiten Transistors T2 ist mit einem Ende der zweiten LED-Kette L2 verbunden. Diese Verbindung ist der dritte elektrische Knoten K23 des zweiten Kanals CH2. Das andere Ende der zweiten LED-Kette L2 ist mit dem Bezugspotenzial, hier mit Masse, verbunden. Die Basis des zweiten Transistors T2 bildet den zweiten elektrischen Knoten K22 des ersten Kanals CH2.A second transistor T 2 (second interrupter switch) is also an NPN bipolar transistor in this example. This is connected with its collector to a second node K 21 of the second channel CH 2 . With this second node K 21 of the second channel CH 2 , the second voltage measuring means MU 2 (second detector DE 2 ) and the second current source IS 2 as a second energy source may also be connected. The second current measuring means MI 2 , which may be present, is connected in series with the second current source IS 2. The sequence of the second current source IS 2 and the second current measuring means MI 2 can be varied. The first node K 21 of the second channel CH 2 is connected to the base of the second transistor T 2 by means of a second resistor R 2 . This sets the operating point of the second transistor T 2 . The second resistor R 2 energizes the base-emitter diode of the second transistor (T 2 ), which is therefore conductive in the normal state. The emitter of the second transistor T 2 is connected to one end of the second LED chain L 2 . This connection is the third electrical node K 23 of the second channel CH 2 . The the other end of the second LED chain L 2 is connected to the reference potential, here to ground. The base of the second transistor T 2 forms the second electrical node K 22 of the first channel CH 2 .
Die Überwachungseinrichtung UWE weist als zwischen den Basisanschlüssen K12,K21 der Transistoren T1,T2 geschaltete Koppelbauteilanordnung KBA eine erste Diode D1 auf, die die Basis des ersten Transistors T1, also den zweiten Knoten K12 des ersten Kanals CH1, mit der Basis des zweiten Transistors T2, also dem zweiten Konten K22 des zweiten Kanals CH2 verbindet. Die elektrische Verbindung zwischen dem zweiten Knoten K12 des ersten Kanals CH1 und dem zweiten Knoten K22 des zweiten Kanals CH2 ist wegen der Diode D1 normalerweise unterbrochen, da der Spannungsabfall über die erste LED-Kette L1 und die zweite LED-Kette L2 bei gleicher Bestromung gleich sein sollte und somit keine einen Stromfluss durch die Diode D1 verursachende Spannungsdifferenz über der Diode D1 abfällt, deren Schwellspannung also nicht erreicht ist. Es sei hier zunächst von symmetrischen Verhältnissen ausgegangen. Das bedeutet von einer gleichen Anzahl n an LEDs in den beiden LED-Ketten und von einem gleichen ersten Strom I1 und einem zweiten Strom I2. Durch die auf gleiche Werte eingestellten Ströme I1,I2 der beiden Stromquellen IS1,IS2 wird bei gleichen LEDs und bei gleicher LED-Anzahl ein gleiches elektrisches Potenzial für den jeweiligen dritten Knoten K13,K23 des ersten Kanals CH1 und des zweiten Kanals CH2 vorgegeben. Wird der Widerstandswert des ersten Widerstands R1 gleich dem Widerstandswert des zweiten Widerstands R2 gewählt, so wird die Basis-Emitter-Diode des ersten Transistors T1 mit dem gleichen Strom bestromt, wie die Basis-Emitter-Diode des zweiten Transistors T2. Wir nehmen hier zur Vereinfachung an, dass der erste Transistor T1 Eigenschaften aufweist, die den Eigenschaften des zweiten Transistors T2 gleichen. Damit fallen über die Basis-Emitter-Dioden-Strecken gleiche Basis-Emitter-Spannungen ab. Somit muss in diesem Fall im Normalbetrieb das Potenzial zu beiden Seiten der ersten Diode D1 gleich sein und es fließt kein Strom. In der Realität werden weder die Widerstände R1,R2, noch die Transistoren T1,T2, noch die LEDs der LED-Ketten L1;L2 identisch sein, sondern voneinander abweichen. Daher ist es sinnvoll, die Schaltspannung der ersten Diode D1 bzw. der Koppelbauteilanordnung KBA geeignet zu wählen. Gegebenenfalls können Zenerdioden verwendet werden oder Serienschaltungen von Dioden. In manchen Fällen mag es sinnvoll sein, statt Siliziumdioden Germaniumdioden oder andere in der Schaltspannung geeignet modifizierte Dioden durch geeignete Materialien zu verwenden. In Jedem Falle sollte mittels einer (z.B. Monte-Carlo-)Simulation geklärt werden, welche Diodenschaltspannungen die Streuung der Bauelemente erfordern. Dies ist aber je nach Applikation unterschiedlich und soll daher hier nicht weiter diskutiert werden.The monitoring device UWE has, as a coupling component arrangement KBA connected between the base connections K 12 , K 21 of the transistors T 1 , T 2 , a first diode D 1 which forms the base of the first transistor T 1 , i.e. the second node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 , connects to the base of the second transistor T 2 , that is to say the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2. The electrical connection between the second node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 and the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2 is normally interrupted because of the diode D 1 , since the voltage drop across the first LED chain L 1 and the second LED chain L 2 should be equal to the same current flow, and thus no current flow through the diode D 1 drops causing voltage difference across the diode D 1, whose threshold voltage is therefore not achieved. Initially, symmetrical relationships are assumed here. This means an equal number n of LEDs in the two LED chains and an equal first current I 1 and a second current I 2 . The currents I 1 , I 2 of the two current sources IS 1 , IS 2 set to the same values result in the same electrical potential for the respective third node K 13 , K 23 of the first channel CH 1 and of the second channel CH 2 . If the resistance of the first resistor R 1 is chosen to be equal to the resistance of the second resistor R 2 , the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1 is supplied with the same current as the base-emitter diode of the second transistor T 2 . For the sake of simplicity, we assume here that the first transistor T 1 has properties which are the same as the properties of the second transistor T 2. This means that the same base-emitter voltages drop across the base-emitter-diode paths. In this case, the potential on both sides of the first diode D 1 must therefore be the same in normal operation and no current flows. In reality, neither the resistors R 1 , R 2 , nor the transistors T 1 , T 2 , nor the LEDs of the LED chains L 1 ; L 2 will be identical, but will differ from one another. Therefore, it is It makes sense to choose the switching voltage of the first diode D 1 or the coupling component arrangement KBA in a suitable manner. If necessary, Zener diodes or series connections of diodes can be used. In some cases it may make sense to use germanium diodes or other diodes with a suitable switching voltage modified using suitable materials instead of silicon diodes. In any case, a simulation (eg Monte Carlo) should clarify which diode switching voltages require the components to be scattered. However, this differs depending on the application and should therefore not be discussed further here.
Im Falle eines Kurzschlusses einer einzelnen LED (in der
Wenn nun die erste Diode D1 öffnet, so fließt der Strom, der bisher durch die Basis-Emitter-Diode des zweiten Transistors T2 abgeflossen ist, über die Basis-Emitter-Diode des ersten Transistors T1 ab. Dadurch wird der zweite Transistor weniger leitend, wodurch sich das Potenzial des dritten Knotens K23 des zweiten Kanals CH2 absenkt. Aufgrund der großen Stromverstärkung und des großen differentiellen Widerstands der LEDs der zweiten LED-Kette L2 wird die zweite LED-Kette L2 abgeschaltet (T2 öffnet). Hierdurch sinkt die Stromabnahme des Stroms der zweiten Stromquelle IS2, was durch die zweiten Messmittel MI2,MU2 (Detektor DE2) erfasst werden kann. Auf Grund dieser Erfassung wird dann typischerweise eine Unterbrechung detektiert und gegebenenfalls signalisiert.When the first diode D 1 opens, the current that has previously flowed through the base-emitter diode of the second transistor T 2 flows through the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1 . This makes the second transistor less conductive, which lowers the potential of the third node K 23 of the second channel CH 2. Due to the large current gain and the large differential resistance of the LEDs in the second LED chain L 2 , the second LED chain L 2 is switched off (T 2 opens). This reduces the current consumption of the current of the second current source IS 2 , which can be detected by the second measuring means MI 2 , MU 2 (detector DE 2). On the basis of this detection, an interruption is then typically detected and, if necessary, signaled.
Die noch verbliebene zweite Diode D2 des zweiten Kanals CH2 dient nur zur Verdeutlichung potenzieller Anreihungsmöglichkeit (Verkopplung jeweils zweier LED-Ketten bei Vorhandensein einer Vielzahl von LED-Ketten).The remaining second diode D 2 of the second channel CH 2 is only used to illustrate the potential possibility of sequencing (coupling of two LED chains in each case when a large number of LED chains are present).
Beispielrechnung:
Unter der beispielhaften Annahme, dass die Flussspannung einer LED 3V beträgt, beträgt das Potenzial des dritten Knotens K13 des ersten Kanals CH1 n∗3V. Es sei beispielhaft angenommen, dass für die Berechnung n=5 gilt. Es fallen dann also 15 V über die erste LED-Kette L1 zwischen dem dritten Knoten K13 des ersten Kanals und Masse ab. Über die Basis-Emitter-Diode des ersten Transistors T1 sollen beispielhaft 0,7 V abfallen. Damit liegt das Potenzial des zweiten Knotens K12 des ersten Kanals CH1 im Normalbetrieb bei 15,7 V gegen Massepotenzial. Gleiches gilt analog für das Potenzial des zweiten Knotens K22 des zweiten Kanals CH2 im Normalbetrieb, was somit ebenfalls bei 15,7 V gegen Massepotenzial liegt. Wird nun die erste LED L11 durch einen Kurzschluss SC kurzgeschlossen, so fällt das Potenzial des dritten Knotens K13 des ersten Kanals CH1 um eine LED-Schaltspannung = 3 V. Damit liegt es bei 12 V. Daraus folgt, dass das Potenzial des zweiten Knotens K12 des ersten Kanals CH1 dann nur noch bei 12,7V liegt. Es fallen dann 15,7 V-12,7 V=3 V, also eine LED-Schleusenspannung über der ersten Diode D1 ab, woraufhin diese zu leiten beginnt, denn ihre Schwellspannung, d.h. die Schaltspannung der allgemein ausgedrückt Koppelbauteilanordnung KBA liegt in diesem Beispiel bei 0,7 V. Damit wird das Potenzial des zweiten Knotens K22 des zweiten Kanals dann aber durch den Spannungsabfall über die erste Diode D1 bestimmt. Wenn deren Schaltspannung wieder beispielsweise 0,7 V beträgt, so liegt damit das Potenzial des zweiten Knotens K22 des zweiten Kanals CH2 nur noch bei 13,4 V statt bei 15,7 V. Hierdurch muss das Potenzial des dritten Knotens K23 des zweiten Kanals CH2 um 0,7 V entsprechend der Basis-Emitter-Spannung des zweiten Transistors T2 niedriger bei 12,7 V liegen. Aufgrund der steilen Kennlinie der LEDs in der zweiten LED-Kette L2 sinkt dadurch die Stromabnahme an der zweiten Stromquelle IS2. Dies kann durch die zweiten Messmittel MI2,MU2 (Detektor DE2) erfasst werden. Dieses Absinken des zweiten Stromes I2 kann direkt durch das zweite Strommessmittel MI2 oder als sich ändernder Spannungsabfall über die zweite Stromquelle IS2 durch das zweite Spannungsmessmittel (Detektor DE2) detektiert werden. Die Verhältnisse entsprechen einer Unterbrechung der zweiten LED-Kette L2 und werden als solche durch die zweiten Messmittel des zweiten Kanals CH2 erkannt.Example calculation:
Under the exemplary assumption that the forward voltage of an LED is 3V, the potential of the third node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 is n ∗ 3V. It is assumed by way of example that n = 5 applies to the calculation. 15 V then drop across the first LED chain L 1 between the third node K 13 of the first channel and ground. By way of example, 0.7 V should drop across the base-emitter diode of the first transistor T 1. The potential of the second node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 is therefore 15.7 V with respect to ground potential in normal operation. The same applies analogously to the potential of the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2 in normal operation, which is thus also at 15.7 V against Ground potential. If the first LED L 11 is now short-circuited by a short circuit SC, the potential of the third node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 drops by an LED switching voltage = 3 V. This means that it is 12 V. It follows that the potential of the second node K 12 of the first channel CH 1 is then only 12.7V. There then fall 15.7 V-12.7 V = 3 V , i.e. an LED gate voltage across the first diode D 1 , whereupon it begins to conduct, because its threshold voltage, ie the switching voltage of the coupling component arrangement KBA, which is generally expressed, lies in this Example at 0.7 V. However, the potential of the second node K 22 of the second channel is then determined by the voltage drop across the first diode D 1 . If their switching voltage is again 0.7 V, for example, then the potential of the second node K 22 of the second channel CH 2 is only 13.4 V instead of 15.7 V. This means that the potential of the third node K 23 of the second channel CH 2 by 0.7 V corresponding to the base-emitter voltage of the second transistor T 2 lower at 12.7 V. As a result of the steep characteristic curve of the LEDs in the second LED chain L 2 , the current consumption at the second current source IS 2 decreases. This can be detected by the second measuring means MI 2 , MU 2 (detector DE 2 ). This drop in the second current I 2 can be detected directly by the second current measuring means MI 2 or as a changing voltage drop across the second current source IS 2 by the second voltage measuring means (detector DE 2 ). The relationships correspond to an interruption in the second LED chain L 2 and are recognized as such by the second measuring means of the second channel CH 2 .
Die
Die
Eine LED im Sinne dieser Offenbarung ist nicht nur eine einzelne Leuchtdiode sondern es kann sich dabei auch um eine Serien und/oder Parallelschaltung mehrere Leuchtdioden handeln, die gegebenenfalls auch weitere Bauelemente, wie beispielsweise Zehnerdioden und/oder Vor- und Parallelwiderstände sowie Kondensatoren umfasst. Typischerweise handelt es sich um zweipolige Schaltungen mit einem ersten Anschluss, der als Stromeingang dient und einem zweiten Anschluss, der als Stromausgang dient. Sind die LEDs in einer LED-Kette seriell miteinander verschaltet, so ist es denkbar, dass zwischen den LEDs entlang der LED-Kette weitere Leitungen beispielsweise als Steuerleitung für andere Zwecke ganz oder teilweise der LED-Kette entlang geführt werden, die hier jedoch nicht beansprucht werden, gegebenenfalls den beanspruchten umfang jedoch nicht auf reine zweipolige einzelne Leuchtdioden beschränken sollen. Die LED-Ketten sind bevorzugt gleich lang, enthalten also bevorzugt gleich viele LEDs mit bevorzugt gleichen Dioden-Schaltspannungen (UD).An LED in the sense of this disclosure is not just a single light-emitting diode but can also be a series and / or parallel connection of several light-emitting diodes, which may also include further components, such as Zener diodes and / or series and parallel resistors and capacitors. They are typically two-pole circuits with a first connection that serves as a current input and a second connection that serves as a current output. If the LEDs are serially connected to one another in an LED chain, it is conceivable that further lines, for example as control lines for other purposes, are routed along the LED chain in whole or in part, which, however, is not claimed here are, if necessary, should not limit the claimed scope to pure two-pole individual light-emitting diodes. The LED chains are preferably of the same length, that is to say they preferably contain the same number of LEDs with preferably the same diode switching voltages (U D ).
Eine LED-Kette im Sinne dieser Offenbarung ist eine serielle Verschaltung von mindestens zwei LEDs, die alle gleich orientiert sind, sodass ein Stromfluss möglich ist.An LED chain in the sense of this disclosure is a series connection of at least two LEDs, all of which are oriented in the same way, so that a current flow is possible.
Im Sinne dieser Offenbarung ist die Schaltspannung einer Diode, Hilfsdiode oder LED die Spannung, bei der die Diode, Hilfsdiode oder LED zu leiten beginnt. Hinsichtlich der Koppelbauteilanordnung bestimmt die Schaltspannung die Größte des Spannungsabfalls über der Koppelbauteilanordnung, bei der diese durchschaltet.For the purposes of this disclosure, the switching voltage of a diode, auxiliary diode or LED is the voltage at which the diode, auxiliary diode or LED begins to conduct. With regard to the coupling component arrangement, the switching voltage determines the greatest voltage drop across the coupling component arrangement at which it switches through.
- CH1CH1
- erster Kanal. Der erste Kanal umfasst die erste Energiequelle - hier die erste Stromquelle IS1 - die erste LED-Kette L1, den ersten Transistor T1, den ersten Widerstand R1, die erste Diode D1 und erste Messmittel MI1,MU1. Der erste Transistor T1 ist mit der ersten LED-Kette L1 am dritten Knoten K13 des ersten Kanals in Serie geschaltet und ist am ersten Konten K11 des ersten Kanals mit der ersten Energiequelle, hier die erste Stromquelle IS1, und gegebenenfalls mit einem ersten Spannungsmessmittel MU1 sowie dem ersten Widerstand R1 verbunden. Der erste Widerstand R1 ist mit dem dritten Knoten K13 des ersten Kanals verbunden, der die Verbindung zum Steueranschluss des ersten Transistors T1 und zu einem ersten Anschluss der ersten Diode D1 herstellt. Diese erste Diode ist dann mit ihrem zweiten Anschluss mit dem entsprechenden Steueranschluss des Transistors eines nachfolgenden Kanals verbunden. Insofern ist es in verschiedenen Ausführungen besonders vorteilhaft, wenn der dritte Konten K13 des ersten Kanals auch eine Verbindung zum zweiten Anschluss der Diode des nachfolgenden Kanals oder eines vorausgehenden Kanals herstellt. Darüber hinaus kann der erste Kanal ein erstes Strommessmittel MI1 umfassen, das den Wert des durch die Energiequelle abgegebenen ersten elektrischen Stroms I1 erfasst. Der erste Kanal umfasst typischerweise mindestens eines dieser ersten Messmittel. Also zumindest das erste Strommessmittel MI1 oder das erste Spannungsmessmittel MU1, um eine Unterbrechung der ersten LED-Kette L1 detektieren zu können.first channel. The first channel comprises the first energy source - here the first current source IS 1 - the first LED chain L 1 , the first transistor T 1 , the first resistor R 1 , the first diode D 1 and first measuring means MI 1 , MU 1 . The first transistor T 1 is connected in series with the first LED chain L 1 at the third node K 13 of the first channel and is connected to the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 , and optionally with the first node K 11 of the first channel connected to a first voltage measuring means MU 1 and to the first resistor R 1 . The first resistor R 1 is connected to the third node K 13 of the first channel, which establishes the connection to the control connection of the first transistor T 1 and to a first connection of the first diode D 1 . This first diode is then connected with its second connection to the corresponding control connection of the transistor of a subsequent channel. In this respect, it is particularly advantageous in various embodiments if the third node K 13 of the first channel also establishes a connection to the second connection of the diode of the following channel or of a preceding channel. In addition, the first channel can comprise a first current measuring means MI 1 , which detects the value of the first electrical current I 1 delivered by the energy source. The first channel typically comprises at least one of these first measuring means. So at least the first current measuring means MI 1 or the first voltage measuring means MU 1 in order to be able to detect an interruption in the first LED chain L 1.
- CH2CH2
- zweiter Kanal. Der zweite Kanal umfasst die zweite Energiequelle - hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2 - die zweite LED-Kette L2, den zweiten Transistor T2, den zweiten Widerstand R2, die zweite Diode D2 und zweite Messmittel MI2,MU2. Der zweite Transistor T2 ist mit der zweiten LED-Kette L2 am dritten Knoten K23 des zweiten Kanals in Serie geschaltet und ist am zweiten Konten K21 des zweiten Kanals mit der zweiten Energiequelle, hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2, und gegebenenfalls mit einem zweiten Spannungsmessmittel MU2 sowie dem zweiten Widerstand R2 verbunden. Der zweite Widerstand R2 ist mit dem zweiten Knoten K23 des zweiten Kanals verbunden, der die Verbindung zum Steueranschluss des zweiten Transistors T2 und zu einem zweiten Anschluss der zweiten Diode D2 herstellt. Diese zweite Diode ist dann mit ihrem zweiten Anschluss mit dem entsprechenden Steueranschluss des Transistors eines nachfolgenden Kanals verbunden. Insofern ist es in verschiedenen Ausführungen besonders vorteilhaft, wenn der dritte Konten K23 des zweiten Kanals auch eine Verbindung zum zweiten Anschluss der Diode des nachfolgenden Kanals oder eines vorausgehenden Kanals herstellt. Darüber hinaus kann der zweite Kanal ein zweites Strommessmittel MI2 umfassen, das den Wert des durch die Energiequelle abgegebenen zweiten elektrischen Stroms I2 erfasst. Der zweite Kanal umfasst typischerweise mindestens eines dieser zweiten Messmittel. Also zumindest das zweite Strommessmittel (MI2) oder das zweite Spannungsmessmittel MU2, um eine Unterbrechung der zweiten LED-Kette L2 detektieren zu können.second channel. The second channel comprises the second energy source - here the second current source IS 2 - the second LED chain L 2 , the second transistor T 2 , the second resistor R 2 , the second diode D 2 and second measuring means MI 2 , MU 2 . The second transistor T 2 is connected in series with the second LED chain L 2 at the third node K 23 of the second channel and is connected to the second node K 21 of the second channel second energy source, here the second current source IS 2 , and optionally connected to a second voltage measuring means MU 2 and the second resistor R 2 . The second resistor R 2 is connected to the second node K 23 of the second channel, which establishes the connection to the control connection of the second transistor T 2 and to a second connection of the second diode D 2 . This second diode is then connected with its second connection to the corresponding control connection of the transistor of a subsequent channel. In this respect, it is particularly advantageous in various embodiments if the third node K 23 of the second channel also establishes a connection to the second connection of the diode of the following channel or of a preceding channel. In addition, the second channel can comprise a second current measuring means MI 2 , which detects the value of the second electrical current I 2 output by the energy source. The second channel typically comprises at least one of these second measuring means. In other words, at least the second current measuring means (MI 2 ) or the second voltage measuring means MU 2 in order to be able to detect an interruption in the second LED chain L 2.
- CH3CH3
- dritter Kanal. Der dritte Kanal umfasst die dritte Energiequelle - hier die dritte Stromquelle IS3 - die dritte LED-Kette L3, den dritten Transistor T3, den dritten Widerstand R3, die dritte Diode D3 und dritte Messmittel MI3,MU3. Der dritte Transistor T3 ist mit der dritten LED-Kette L3 am dritten Knoten K33 des dritten Kanals in Serie geschaltet und ist am ersten Knoten K31 des dritten Kanals mit der dritten Energiequelle, hier die dritte Stromquelle IS3, und gegebenenfalls mit einem dritten Spannungsmessmittel MU3 sowie dem dritten Widerstand R3 verbunden. Der dritte Widerstand R3 ist mit dem dritten Knoten K33 des dritten Kanals verbunden, der die Verbindung zum Steueranschluss des dritten Transistors T3 und zu einem ersten Anschluss der dritten Diode D3 herstellt. Diese dritte Diode ist dann mit ihrem zweiten Anschluss mit dem entsprechenden Steueranschluss des Transistors eines nachfolgenden Kanals verbunden. Insofern ist es in verschiedenen Ausführungen besonders vorteilhaft, wenn der dritte Konten K33 des dritten Kanals auch eine Verbindung zum zweiten Anschluss der Diode des nachfolgenden Kanals oder eines vorausgehenden Kanals herstellt. Darüber hinaus kann der dritte Kanal ein drittes Strommessmittel MI3 umfassen, das den Wert des durch die Energiequelle abgegebenen dritten elektrischen Stroms I3 erfasst. Der dritte Kanal umfasst typischerweise mindestens eines dieser dritten Messmittel. Also zumindest das dritte Strommessmittel MI3 oder das dritte Spannungsmessmittel MU3, um eine Unterbrechung der dritten LED-Kette L3 detektieren zu können.third channel. The third channel comprises the third energy source - here the third current source IS 3 - the third LED chain L 3 , the third transistor T 3 , the third resistor R 3 , the third diode D 3 and third measuring means MI 3 , MU 3 . The third transistor T 3 is connected in series with the third LED chain L 3 at the third node K 33 of the third channel and is connected to the third energy source, here the third current source IS 3 , and optionally with the first node K 31 of the third channel a third voltage measuring means MU 3 and the third resistor R 3 . The third resistor R 3 is connected to the third node K 33 of the third channel, which establishes the connection to the control connection of the third transistor T 3 and to a first connection of the third diode D 3 . This third diode is then connected with its second connection to the corresponding control connection of the transistor of a subsequent channel. To that extent it is in different Embodiments are particularly advantageous if the third node K 33 of the third channel also establishes a connection to the second connection of the diode of the following channel or of a preceding channel. In addition, the third channel can comprise a third current measuring means MI 3 , which detects the value of the third electrical current I 3 emitted by the energy source. The third channel typically comprises at least one of these third measuring means. So at least the third current measuring means MI 3 or the third voltage measuring means MU 3 in order to be able to detect an interruption in the third LED chain L 3.
- D1D1
- erste Diode des ersten Kanals CH1 first diode of the first channel CH 1
- D2D2
- zweite Diode des zweiten Kanals CH2 second diode of the second channel CH 2
- D3D3
- dritte Diode des dritten Kanals CH3 third diode of the third channel CH 3
- D11D11
- erste Vorwärtsdiode des ersten Kanals CH1 first forward diode of the first channel CH 1
- D12D12
- erste Rückwärtsdiode des ersten Kanals CH1 first reverse diode of the first channel CH 1
- D21D21
- erste Vorwärtsdiode des zweiten Kanals CH2 first forward diode of the second channel CH 2
- D22D22
- erste Rückwärtsdiode des zweiten Kanals CH2 first reverse diode of the second channel CH 2
- D31D31
- erste Vorwärtsdiode des dritten Kanals CH3 first forward diode of the third channel CH 3
- D32D32
- erste Rückwärtsdiode des dritten Kanals CH3 first reverse diode of the third channel CH 3
- DE1DE1
- erster Detektorfirst detector
- DE2DE2
- zweiter Detektorsecond detector
- DE3DE3
- dritter Detektorthird detector
- DUYOU
- Dioden-Schaltspannung (Das ist die Diodenspannung, bei der der Stromfluss einsetzt.)Diode switching voltage (This is the diode voltage at which the current begins to flow.)
- HD1HD1
- erste Hilfsdiode des ersten Kanals CH1. Die erste Hilfsdiode wird als Detektionsvorrichtung notwendig, wenn statt eines Bipolar-Transistors als ersten Transistor T1 ein MOS-Transistor verwendet wird. Die erste Hilfsdiode emuliert dann die Funktion der Basis-Emitter-Diode als Detektionsvorrichtung und zwingt das Potenzial eines Transistors eines anderen Kanals auf ein Potenzial bei dem die Gate-Source-Strecke keine ausreichende Spannung mehr aufweist, wodurch dieser zu Sperren anfängt, wenn es zu einem Kurzschluss einer einzelnen oder mehrere LEDs längs der betreffenden LED-Kette kommt. Bei der Verwendung von MOS-Transistoren sind also die Funktionen Detektionsvorrichtung (erste Hilfsdiode) und Unterbrechungsvorrichtung (erster Transistor T1) getrennt, während sie bei Bipolartransistoren durch die Bipolartransistoren gleichzeitig (erster Transistor T1 alleine) durchgeführt werden können. Bei der Verwendung eines Bipolartransistors als ersten Transistor T1 ist daher die erste Hilfsdiode HD1 nicht zwingend erforderlich.first auxiliary diode of the first channel CH 1 . The first auxiliary diode is required as a detection device if, instead of a bipolar transistor, a MOS transistor is used as the first transistor T 1. The first auxiliary diode then emulates the function of the base-emitter diode as a detection device and forces the potential of a transistor of another channel to a potential at which the gate-source path no longer has sufficient voltage, causing it to close Blocking begins when there is a short circuit of one or more LEDs along the relevant LED chain. When using MOS transistors, the functions of detection device (first auxiliary diode) and interruption device (first transistor T 1 ) are separated, while with bipolar transistors they can be performed by the bipolar transistors simultaneously (first transistor T 1 alone). When using a bipolar transistor as the first transistor T 1 , the first auxiliary diode HD 1 is therefore not absolutely necessary.
- HD2HD2
- zweite Hilfsdiode des zweiten Kanals CH2. Die zweite Hilfsdiode wird als Detektionsvorrichtung notwendig, wenn statt eines Bipolar-Transistors als zweiten Transistor T2 ein MOS-Transistor verwendet wird. Die zweite Hilfsdiode emuliert dann die Funktion der Basis-Emitter-Diode als Detektionsvorrichtung und zwingt das Potenzial eines Transistors eines anderen Kanals auf ein Potenzial bei dem die Gate-Source-Strecke keine ausreichende Spannung mehr aufweist, wodurch dieser zu Sperren anfängt, wenn es zu einem Kurzschluss einer einzelnen oder mehrere LEDs längs der betreffenden LED-Kette kommt. Bei der Verwendung von MOS-Transistoren sind also die Funktionen Detektionsvorrichtung (zweite Hilfsdiode) und Unterbrechungsvorrichtung (zweiter Transistor T2) getrennt, während sie bei Bipolartransistoren durch die Bipolartransistoren gleichzeitig (zweiter Transistor T2 alleine) durchgeführt werden können. Bei der Verwendung eines Bipolartransistors als zweiten Transistor T2 ist daher die zweite Hilfsdiode nicht zwingend erforderlich.second auxiliary diode of the second channel CH 2 . The second auxiliary diode is necessary as a detection device if, instead of a bipolar transistor, a MOS transistor is used as the second transistor T 2. The second auxiliary diode then emulates the function of the base-emitter diode as a detection device and forces the potential of a transistor of another channel to a potential at which the gate-source path no longer has sufficient voltage, whereby it begins to block when it closes a short circuit of one or more LEDs along the relevant LED chain occurs. When using MOS transistors, the functions of the detection device (second auxiliary diode) and interruption device (second transistor T 2 ) are separated, while in the case of bipolar transistors they can be carried out simultaneously by the bipolar transistors (second transistor T 2 alone). When using a bipolar transistor as the second transistor T 2 , the second auxiliary diode is therefore not absolutely necessary.
- HD3HD3
- dritte Hilfsdiode des dritten Kanals CH3. Die dritte Hilfsdiode wird als Detektionsvorrichtung notwendig, wenn statt eines Bipolar-Transistors als dritten Transistor T3 ein MOS-Transistor verwendet wird. Die dritte Hilfsdiode emuliert dann die Funktion der Basis-Emitter-Diode als Detektionsvorrichtung und zwingt das Potenzial eines Transistors eines anderen Kanals auf ein Potenzial bei dem die Gate-Source-Strecke keine ausreichende Spannung mehr aufweist, wodurch dieser zu Sperren anfängt, wenn es zu einem Kurzschluss einer einzelnen oder mehrere LEDs längs der betreffenden LED-Kette kommt. Bei der Verwendung von MOS-Transistoren sind also die Funktionen Detektionsvorrichtung (dritte Hilfsdiode) und Unterbrechungsvorrichtung (dritter Transistor T3) getrennt, während sie bei Bipolartransistoren durch die Bipolartransistoren gleichzeitig (dritter Transistor T1 alleine) durchgeführt werden können. Bei der Verwendung eines Bipolartransistors als dritten Transistor T3 ist daher die dritte Hilfsdiode nicht zwingend erforderlich.third auxiliary diode of the third channel CH 3 . The third auxiliary diode is required as a detection device if, instead of a bipolar transistor, a MOS transistor is used as the third transistor T 3. The third auxiliary diode then emulates the function of the base-emitter diode as a detection device and forces the potential of a transistor of another channel to a potential at which the gate-source path no longer has sufficient voltage, causing it to close Blocking begins when there is a short circuit of one or more LEDs along the relevant LED chain. When using MOS transistors, the functions of the detection device (third auxiliary diode) and interruption device (third transistor T 3 ) are separated, while with bipolar transistors they can be carried out simultaneously by the bipolar transistors (third transistor T 1 alone). When using a bipolar transistor as the third transistor T 3 , the third auxiliary diode is therefore not absolutely necessary.
- I1I1
- erster elektrischer Strom, der von der ersten Energiequelle - hier die erste Stromquelle IS1 in die erste LED-Kette L11 eingespeist wird und diese mit elektrischer Energie versorgt.first electrical current, which is fed into the first LED chain L 11 from the first energy source - here the first current source IS 1 and supplies it with electrical energy.
- I2I2
- zweiter elektrischer Strom, der von der zweiten Energiequelle - hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2 in die zweite LED-Kette L2 eingespeist wird und diese mit elektrischer Energie versorgt.second electrical current which is fed into the second LED chain L 2 from the second energy source - here the second current source IS 2 and supplies it with electrical energy.
- I3I3
- dritter elektrischer Strom, der von der dritten Energiequelle - hier die dritte Stromquelle IS3 in die dritte LED-Kette L3 eingespeist wird und diese mit elektrischer Energie versorgt.third electrical current that is fed into the third LED chain L 3 from the third energy source - here the third current source IS 3 and supplies it with electrical energy.
- IS1IS1
- erste Stromquelle als erste Energiequelle des ersten Kanals CH1 first current source as the first energy source of the first channel CH 1
- IS2IS2
- zweite Stromquelle als zweite Energiequelle des zweiten Kanals CH2 second current source as the second energy source of the second channel CH 2
- IS3IS3
- dritte Stromquelle als dritte Energiequelle des dritten Kanals CH3 third current source as the third energy source of the third channel CH 3
- K11K11
- erster Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1. Der erste Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1 verbindet die erste Energiequelle, hier die erste Stromquelle IS1, mit dem ersten Transistor T1 und dem ersten Widerstand R1, sowie einem ersten Spannungs-Messmittel MU1 zur Erfassung des Spannungsabfalls über die erste Energiequelle, hier die erste Stromquelle IS1.first node of the first channel CH 1 . The first node of the first channel CH 1 connects the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 , with the first transistor T 1 and the first resistor R 1 , as well as a first voltage measuring means MU 1 for detecting the voltage drop across the first energy source, here the first current source IS 1 .
- K12K12
-
zweiter Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1. Der zweite Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1 verbindet den Steueranschluss des ersten Transistors T1 mit dem ersten Widerstand R1 und der ersten Diode D1. Im Falle eines NPN Bipolar-Transistors als ersten Transistor T1 ist der Anschluss der ersten Diode D1 deren Kathode (
Fig. 2 ). Im Falle eines PNP Bipolar Transistors als ersten Transistor T1 ist dies die Anode (Fig. 3 ). Sofern es sich um einen MOS-Transistor als ersten Transistor T1 handelt, kann der zweite Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1 auch mit einer ersten Hilfsdiode HD1 verbunden sein, die mit dem dritten Konten K13 des ersten Kanals CH1 verbunden ist und deren Orientierung sich ebenfalls nach dem Transistortyp des ersten Transistors T1 richtet.second node of the first channel CH 1 . The second node of the first channel CH 1 connects the control connection of the first transistor T 1 to the first resistor R 1 and the first diode D 1 . In the case of an NPN bipolar transistor as the first transistor T 1 , the connection of the first diode D 1 is its cathode (Fig. 2 ). In the case of a PNP bipolar Transistor as the first transistor T 1 this is the anode (Fig. 3 ). If it is a MOS transistor as the first transistor T 1 , the second node of the first channel CH 1 can also be connected to a first auxiliary diode HD 1 , which is connected to the third node K 13 of the first channel CH 1 and its Orientation also depends on the transistor type of the first transistor T 1. - K13K13
- dritter Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1. Der dritte Knoten des ersten Kanals CH1 verbindet den ersten Transistor T1 mit einem ersten Anschluss der ersten LED-Kette L1. Gegebenenfalls verbindet er ebenfalls diese mit dem zweiten Anschluss einer ersten Hilfsdiode HD1. Dies ist insbesondere dann hilfreich, wenn es sich bei dem ersten Transistor T1 um einen MOS-Transistor handelt. Die Orientierung der ersten Hilfsdiode HD1 richtet sich dann wieder nach dem Transistor-Typ (P-Kanal-MOS-Transistor oder N-Kanal MOS Transistor) des ersten Transistors T1.third node of the first channel CH 1 . The third node of the first channel CH 1 connects the first transistor T 1 to a first connection of the first LED chain L 1 . If necessary, it also connects this to the second connection of a first auxiliary diode HD 1 . This is particularly helpful when the first transistor T 1 is a MOS transistor. The orientation of the first auxiliary diode HD 1 then depends again on the transistor type (P-channel MOS transistor or N-channel MOS transistor) of the first transistor T 1 .
- K21K21
- erster Knoten des zweiten Kanals CH2. Der erste Knoten des zweiten Kanals CH2 verbindet die zweite Energiequelle, hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2, mit dem zweiten Transistor T2 und dem zweiten Widerstand R2, sowie einem zweiten Spannungs-Messmittel MU2 zur Erfassung des Spannungsabfalls über die zweite Energiequelle, hier die zweite Stromquelle IS2.first node of the second channel CH 2 . The first node of the second channel CH 2 connects the second energy source, here the second current source IS 2 , with the second transistor T 2 and the second resistor R 2 , as well as a second voltage measuring means MU 2 for detecting the voltage drop across the second energy source, here the second current source IS 2 .
- K22K22
-
zweiter Knoten des zweiten Kanals CH2. Der zweite Knoten des zweiten Kanals CH2 verbindet den Steueranschluss des zweiten Transistors T2 mit dem zweiten Widerstand R2 und der zweiten Diode D2. Im Falle eines NPN Bipolar-Transistors als zweiten Transistor T2 ist der Anschluss der zweiten Diode D2 deren Kathode. Im Falle eines PNP Bipolar Transistors als zweiten Transistor T2 ist dies die Anode (
Fig. 3 ). Sofern es sich um einen MOS-Transistor als zweiten Transistor T2 handelt, kann der zweite Knoten des zweiten Kanals CH2 auch mit einer zweiten Hilfsdiode HD2 verbunden sein, die mit dem dritten Konten K23 des zweiten Kanals CH2 verbunden ist und deren Orientierung sich ebenfalls nach dem Transistortyp des zweiten Transistors T2 richtet.second node of the second channel CH 2 . The second node of the second channel CH 2 connects the control connection of the second transistor T 2 to the second resistor R 2 and the second diode D 2 . In the case of an NPN bipolar transistor as the second transistor T 2 , the connection of the second diode D 2 is its cathode. In the case of a PNP bipolar transistor as the second transistor T 2 , this is the anode (Fig. 3 ). If it is a MOS transistor as the second transistor T 2 , the second node of the second channel CH 2 can also be connected to a second auxiliary diode HD 2 , which is connected to the third node K 23 of the second channel CH 2 and its Orientation also depends on the transistor type of the second transistor T 2. - K23K23
- dritter Knoten des zweiten Kanals CH2. Der dritte Knoten zweiten Kanals CH2 verbindet den zweiten Transistor T2 mit einem ersten Anschluss der zweiten LED-Kette L2. Gegebenenfalls verbindet er ebenfalls diese mit dem zweiten Anschluss einer zweiten Hilfsdiode HD2. Dies ist insbesondere dann hilfreich, wenn es sich bei dem zweiten Transistor T2 um einen MOS-Transistor handelt. Die Orientierung der zweiten Hilfsdiode HD2 richtet sich dann wieder nach dem Transistor-Typ (P-Kanal-MOS-Transistor oder N-Kanal MOS Transistor) des zweiten Transistors T2.third node of the second channel CH 2 . The third node of the second channel CH 2 connects the second transistor T 2 to a first connection of the second LED chain L 2 . If necessary, it also connects this to the second connection of a second auxiliary diode HD 2 . This is particularly helpful when the second transistor T 2 is a MOS transistor. The orientation of the second auxiliary diode HD 2 then depends again on the transistor type (P-channel MOS transistor or N-channel MOS transistor) of the second transistor T 2 .
- K31K31
- erster Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3. Der erste Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3 verbindet die dritte Energiequelle, hier die dritte Stromquelle IS3, mit dem dritten Transistor T3 und dem dritten Widerstand R3, sowie einem dritten Spannungs-Messmittel MU3 zur Erfassung des Spannungsabfalls über die dritte Energiequelle, hier die dritte Stromquelle IS3.first node of the third channel CH 3 . The first node of the third channel CH 3 connects the third energy source, here the third current source IS 3 , with the third transistor T 3 and the third resistor R 3 , as well as a third voltage measuring means MU 3 for detecting the voltage drop across the third energy source, here the third current source IS 3 .
- K32K32
-
zweiter Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3. Der zweite Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3 verbindet den Steueranschluss des dritten Transistors T3 mit dem dritten Widerstand R3 und der dritten Diode D3. Im Falle eines NPN Bipolar-Transistors als dritten Transistor T3 ist der Anschluss der dritten Diode D3 deren Kathode (
Fig. 2 ). Im Falle eines PNP Bipolar Transistors als dritten Transistor T3 ist dies die Anode (Fig. 3 ). Sofern es sich um einen MOS-Transistor als dritten Transistor T3 handelt, kann der zweite Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3 auch mit einer dritten Hilfsdiode HD3 verbunden sein, die mit dem dritten Konten K33 des dritten Kanals CH3 verbunden ist und deren Orientierung sich ebenfalls nach dem Transistortyp richtet.second node of the third channel CH 3 . The second node of the third channel CH 3 connects the control connection of the third transistor T 3 to the third resistor R 3 and the third diode D 3 . In the case of an NPN bipolar transistor as the third transistor T 3 , the connection of the third diode D 3 is its cathode (Fig. 2 ). In the case of a PNP bipolar transistor as the third transistor T 3 , this is the anode (Fig. 3 ). If it is a MOS transistor as the third transistor T 3 , the second node of the third channel CH 3 can also be connected to a third auxiliary diode HD 3 , which is connected to the third node K 33 of the third channel CH 3 and its Orientation also depends on the transistor type. - K33K33
- dritter Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3. Der dritte Knoten des dritten Kanals CH3 verbindet den dritten Transistor T3 mit einem ersten Anschluss der dritten LED-Kette L1. Gegebenenfalls verbindet er ebenfalls diese mit dem zweiten Anschluss einer dritten Hilfsdiode HD3. Dies ist insbesondere dann hilfreich, wenn es sich bei dem dritten Transistor T3 um einen MOS-Transistor handelt. Die Orientierung der dritten Hilfsdiode HD3 richtet sich dann wieder nach dem Transistor-Typ (P-Kanal-MOS-Transistor oder N-Kanal MOS Transistor) des dritten Transistors T3.third node of the third channel CH 3 . The third node of the third channel CH 3 connects the third transistor T 3 to a first connection of the third LED chain L 1 . If necessary, it also connects this to the second connection of a third auxiliary diode HD 3 . This is particularly helpful when the third transistor T 3 is a MOS transistor. The orientation of the third auxiliary diode HD 3 then depends again on the transistor type (P-channel MOS transistor or N-channel MOS transistor) of the third transistor T 3 .
- KBAKBA
- KoppelbauteilanordnungCoupling component arrangement
- L1L1
- erste LED-Kettefirst LED chain
- L2L2
- zweite LED-Kettesecond LED chain
- L3L3
- dritte LED-Kettethird LED chain
- L11L11
- erste LED in der ersten LED-Kettefirst LED in the first LED chain
- L12L12
- zweite LED in der ersten LED-Kettesecond LED in the first LED chain
- L1nL1n
- n-te LED in der ersten LED-Kettenth LED in the first LED chain
- L21L21
- erste LED in der zweiten LED-Kettefirst LED in the second LED chain
- L32L32
- zweite LED in der zweiten LED-Kettesecond LED in the second LED chain
- L4nL4n
- n-te LED in der zweiten LED-Kettenth LED in the second LED chain
- L31L31
- erste LED in der dritten LED-Kettefirst LED in the third LED chain
- L32L32
- zweite LED in der dritten LED-Kettesecond LED in the third LED chain
- L3nL3n
- n-te LED in der dritten LED-Kettenth LED in the third LED chain
- MI1MI1
- erstes Strom-Messmittel. Dieses Messmittel dient zum Erkennen einer Unterbrechung in der ersten LED-Kette L1.first current measuring device. This measuring device is used to detect an interruption in the first LED chain L 1 .
- MI2MI2
- zweite Strom-Messmittel. Dieses Messmittel dient zum Erkennen einer Unterbrechung in der zweiten LED-Kette L2.second current measuring equipment. This measuring device is used to detect an interruption in the second LED chain L 2 .
- MI3MI3
- drittes Strom-Messmittel. Dieses Messmittel dient zum Erkennen einer Unterbrechung in der dritten LED-Kette L3.third current measuring device. This measuring device is used to detect an interruption in the third LED chain L 3 .
- MU1MU1
- erstes Spannungs-Messmittel. Dieses Messmittel dient zum Erkennen einer Unterbrechung in der ersten LED-Kette L.first voltage measuring device. This measuring device is used to detect an interruption in the first LED chain L.
- MU2MU2
- zweite Spannungs-Messmittel. Dieses Messmittel dient zum Erkennen einer Unterbrechung in der zweiten LED-Kette (L21, L22, .... L2n).second voltage measuring equipment. This measuring device is used to detect an interruption in the second LED chain (L 21 , L 22 , .... L 2n ).
- MU3MU3
- drittes Spannungs-Messmittel. Dieses Messmittel dient zum Erkennen einer Unterbrechung in der dritten LED-Kette (L31, L32, .... L3n).third voltage measuring device. This measuring device is used to detect an interruption in the third LED chain (L 31 , L 32 , .... L 3n ).
- R1R1
- erster Widerstandfirst resistance
- R2R2
- zweiter Widerstandsecond resistance
- R3R3
- dritter Widerstandthird resistance
- Rv1Rv1
-
erster Vorwiderstand. Der erste Vorwiderstand kann beispielsweise mit der ersten Diode D1 in Serie geschaltet werden, um die Schaltschwellen zwischen unterschiedlichen Kanälen unsymmetrisch gestalten zu können. Dann ist es notwendig, dass der erste Vorwiderstand von einem anderen Vorwiderstand, beispielsweise vom zweiten Vorwiderstand Rv2 in
Fig. 6 abweicht.first series resistor. The first series resistor can, for example, be connected in series with the first diode D 1 in order to be able to configure the switching thresholds between different channels to be asymmetrical. Then it is necessary that the first series resistor from another series resistor, for example from the second series resistor R v2 inFig. 6 deviates. - Rv2Rv2
-
zweiter Vorwiderstand. Der zweite Vorwiderstand kann beispielsweise mit der zweiten Diode D2 in Serie geschaltet werden, um die Schaltschwellen zwischen unterschiedlichen Kanälen unsymmetrisch gestalten zu können. Dann ist es notwendig, dass der zweite Vorwiderstand von einem anderen Vorwiderstand, beispielsweise vom ersten Vorwiderstand Rv1 in
Fig. 6 abweicht.second series resistor. The second series resistor can, for example, be connected in series with the second diode D 2 in order to be able to configure the switching thresholds between different channels to be asymmetrical. Then it is necessary that the second series resistor from another series resistor, for example from the first series resistor R v1 inFig. 6 deviates. - Rv3Rv3
- dritter Vorwiderstand. Der dritte Vorwiderstand kann beispielsweise mit der dritten Diode D3 in Serie geschaltet werden, um die Schaltschwellen zwischen unterschiedlichen Kanälen unsymmetrisch gestalten zu können. Dann ist es notwendig, dass der erste Vorwiderstand von einem anderen Vorwiderstand, beispielsweise vom zweiten Vorwiderstand Rv2 und/oder vom ersten Vorwiderstand Rv1 abweicht.third series resistor. The third series resistor can, for example, be connected in series with the third diode D 3 in order to be able to configure the switching thresholds between different channels to be asymmetrical. It is then necessary for the first series resistor to differ from another series resistor, for example from the second series resistor R v2 and / or from the first series resistor R v1 .
- SCSC
- hypothetischer, beispielhafter Kurzschlusshypothetical, exemplary short circuit
- StOCStOC
- Kurzschluss-zu-Unterbrechungs-Wandler (Englisch: Short-to-Open-Converter). Es handelt sich um eine Teilvorrichtung, die bei dem Kurzschluss einer oder mehrerer LEDs innerhalb einer betrachteten LED-Kette eine Erkennung und/oder anschließenden Signalisierung einer Unterbrechung des Strompfades innerhalb einer anderen LED-Kette der mindestens zwei LED-Ketten L1,L2,L3 herbeiführt.Short-to-Open Converter. It is a sub-device which, in the event of a short circuit of one or more LEDs within an LED chain under consideration, detects and / or subsequently signals an interruption of the current path within another LED chain of the at least two LED chains L 1 , L 2 , L 3 brings about.
- SVESVE
- (Mehrkanal-)Stromversorgungseinheit(Multi-channel) power supply unit
- T1T1
- erster Transistorfirst transistor
- T2T2
- zweiter Transistorsecond transistor
- T3T3
- dritter Transistorthird transistor
- UWEUWE
- ÜberwachungseinheitMonitoring unit
- VbatVbat
- BetriebsspannungsanschlussOperating voltage connection
Claims (9)
- A lighting device, particularly for vehicles, comprising- at least two LED chains (L1,L2,L3), each of which has a series circuit of a plurality of LEDs (L11,L12,...,L1n,L21,L22,...,L2n,L31,L32,...,L3n),- a multi-channel power supply unit (SVE) for the at least two LED chains (L1,L2,L3) with at least two power sources (IS1,IS2,IS3), wherein each LED chain (L1,L2,L3) is associated with a power source (IS1,IS2,IS3) and each LED chain (L1,L2,L3) is electrically connected on the one hand to a power supply output connection (K11,K21,K31) of the power supply unit (SVE) and on the other hand to a reference potential, and- a monitoring device (UWE) for identifying a short circuit in a predefinable number of LEDs (L11,L12,...,L1n,L21, L22,...,L2n,L31,L32,...,L3n) of one of the at least two LED chains (L1,L2,L3), wherein the monitoring device (UWE) is provided with- a detector (DE1,DE2,DE3) per LED chain (L1,L2,L3) for identifying and signalling an interruption in the current flow in said LED chain (L1,L2,L3),- a controllable interrupter switch (T1,T2,T3) per LED chain (L1,L2,L3), which has a control connection (K12,K22,K32) controllable by means of a control signal and a current path which can be switched conductively or non-conductively depending on the magnitude of the control signal and which is connected in series with the LED chain (L1,L2,L3),- wherein per LED chain (L1,L2,L3) the associated interrupter switch (T1,T2,T3) is connected in respect of its current path between the power supply output connection (K11,K21,K31) of the power supply unit (SVE) and the relevant LED chain (L1,L2,L3), and- at least one coupling component assembly (KBA) connected between the control connections (K12,K22,K32) of the at least two interrupter switches (T1,T2,T3) for enabling a flow of current from the control connection (K12,K22,K32) of one interrupter switch (T1,T2,T3) to the control connection (K12,K22,K32) of the other interrupter switch (T1,T2,T3) when a voltage of a value greater than a predefinable switching voltage is applied across the coupling component assembly (KBA),- wherein the lighting device is configured such that in the event of a short circuit of the predefined number of LEDs (L11,L12,...,L1n,L21,L22,...,L2n,L31,L32,...,L3n) in one of the two LED chains (L1,L2,L3), a voltage at least equal to the switching voltage drops across the coupling component assembly (KBA), and therefore the control signal of the interrupter switch (T1,T2,T3) associated with the other LED chain (L1,L2,L3) assumes a value opening this interrupter switch (T1,T2,T3), such that the detector (DE1,DE2,DE3) associated with this other LED chain signals an interruption of the current flow in the other LED chain (L1,L2,L3).
- The lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling component assembly (KBA) is configured such that it enables a flow of current in the one direction or in the other opposite direction only with a predefinable sign of the voltage dropping across it or depending on the sign of the voltage dropping across it.
- The lighting device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the coupling component assembly (KBA) has one or more diodes (D1,D2,D3) which can be connected, or are connected, anti-parallel in order to enable a flow of current in both directions.
- The lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the monitoring device (UWE), in the case of more than two LED chains (L1,L2,L3), has a number of coupling component assemblies (KBA) equalling the number of LED chains (L1,L2,L3), wherein the control connections of the interrupter switches (T1,T2,T3) associated with the LED chains (L1,L2,L3) are coupled cyclically in each case by means of a coupling component assembly (KBA) and therefore coupled as a ring circuit.
- The lighting device according to claim 4, characterized in that each coupling component assembly (KBA) is configured to enable a flow of current in the same direction through the ring circuit.
- The lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the monitoring device (UWE), in the case of more than two LED chains (L1,L2,L3), has a number of coupling component assemblies (KBA) equalling the number of LED chains (L1,L2,L3), wherein the control connections of the interrupter switches (T1,T2,T3) associated with the LED chains (L1,L2,L3) are coupled in a star circuit by means of the coupling component assemblies (KBA).
- The lighting device according to claim 6, characterized in that each coupling component assembly (KBA) is configured to enable unidirectional flows of current.
- The lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the interrupter switches (T1,T2,T3) are formed as bipolar, FET or MOS transistors.
- The lighting device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the number of LEDs (L11,L12,...,L1n,L21, L22,...,L2n,L31,L32,...,L3n) for which a short circuit can be detected by means of the monitoring unit (UWE) is equal to one or greater than one
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102016119584 | 2016-10-13 | ||
EP2017055286 | 2017-03-07 | ||
DE102017123259.1A DE102017123259B3 (en) | 2016-10-13 | 2017-10-06 | Method for supplying LED chains with electrical energy with single LED short-circuit detection |
DE102017123260.5A DE102017123260B3 (en) | 2016-10-13 | 2017-10-06 | Device for supplying LED chains with electrical energy with single LED short-circuit detection |
PCT/EP2017/076106 WO2018069464A1 (en) | 2016-10-13 | 2017-10-12 | Led lighting device, particularly for vehicles |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3527043A1 EP3527043A1 (en) | 2019-08-21 |
EP3527043B1 true EP3527043B1 (en) | 2021-05-26 |
Family
ID=61905193
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP17787373.4A Active EP3527043B1 (en) | 2016-10-13 | 2017-10-12 | Led lighting device, particularly for vehicles |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US10999909B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3527043B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN109845403B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2018069464A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US10841998B1 (en) * | 2019-05-17 | 2020-11-17 | Signify Holding B.V. | Shared power topology for LED luminaires |
CN114666942A (en) * | 2020-12-23 | 2022-06-24 | 常州星宇车灯股份有限公司 | Control circuit |
CN113411932B (en) * | 2021-05-19 | 2023-11-28 | 深圳拓邦股份有限公司 | Constant brightness LED circuit and electronic equipment |
Family Cites Families (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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AT5190B (en) * | 1899-07-19 | 1901-09-10 | Anton Ekert | |
AT391384B (en) * | 1987-11-02 | 1990-09-25 | Walter Gottlieb Ing Toriser | ELECTRIC DRIVE WITH USE BRAKE |
AT5190U1 (en) | 2001-05-17 | 2002-04-25 | Zizala Lichtsysteme Gmbh | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AT LEAST TWO SERIES ARRANGEMENTS OF LIGHT-EMITTING DIODES OF A VEHICLE LAMP |
JP2007161012A (en) | 2005-12-12 | 2007-06-28 | Koito Mfg Co Ltd | Vehicular light emission device |
JP4457312B2 (en) | 2006-01-12 | 2010-04-28 | 株式会社デンソー | Vehicle headlamp device |
EP1965609A3 (en) | 2007-02-27 | 2011-06-15 | Lumination, LLC | LED chain failure detection |
AT507185B1 (en) | 2008-08-07 | 2010-06-15 | Zizala Lichtsysteme Gmbh | FUNCTIONAL MONITORING OF A LED ARRANGEMENT |
DE102008047731B4 (en) | 2008-09-18 | 2020-06-04 | HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA | Error detection method in a lighting device |
DE102008037551B4 (en) | 2008-11-14 | 2013-04-18 | Lear Corporation Gmbh | Device for operating light-emitting diode chains |
US8084960B2 (en) * | 2009-12-30 | 2011-12-27 | O2Micro, Inc | Circuits and methods for powering light source with balanced currents |
WO2012077013A2 (en) | 2010-12-08 | 2012-06-14 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Control circuit for led lamps in automobile applications |
US10136496B2 (en) * | 2013-08-28 | 2018-11-20 | Elmos Semiconductor Ag | Apparatus for supplying electrical energy to a consumer |
DE102014112171B4 (en) | 2014-08-26 | 2018-01-25 | Osram Oled Gmbh | Method for detecting a short circuit in a first light emitting diode element and optoelectronic assembly |
-
2017
- 2017-10-12 US US16/340,746 patent/US10999909B2/en active Active
- 2017-10-12 EP EP17787373.4A patent/EP3527043B1/en active Active
- 2017-10-12 CN CN201780063291.0A patent/CN109845403B/en active Active
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CN109845403A (en) | 2019-06-04 |
US20210014949A1 (en) | 2021-01-14 |
CN109845403B (en) | 2021-09-17 |
US10999909B2 (en) | 2021-05-04 |
EP3527043A1 (en) | 2019-08-21 |
WO2018069464A1 (en) | 2018-04-19 |
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