AT16197U1 - Operating device for a lighting device, system and method for operating a control gear - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an operating device for a light-emitting means (7), which comprises a supply input (21) and an interface (22), wherein the operating device (10) is set up in response to a time period in which a signal is applied to the interface (22). received alternating signal during a half-cycle of the alternating signal exceeds a threshold, to detect whether the alternating signal is a control signal. In addition, the invention relates to a method for operating an operating device (10) for a lighting means (7).

Description

description

OPERATING DEVICE FOR A LUMINAIRE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING AN OPERATING DEVICE Embodiments of the invention relate to operating devices for illuminants, systems with such operating devices and methods for operating an operating device. Embodiments of the invention relate in particular to operating devices with an interface for receiving a control signal.

With the increasing spread of lamps such as LED modules or other lamps with one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), control gear for such lamps are becoming increasingly important. The operating device has a constant current source in order to provide an LED current for the LEDs.

[0003] Operating devices of this type can have an interface for receiving a control signal. The interface can, for example, be connected to an AC voltage source via a button or switch in order to enable the lighting means to be dimmed by actuating the button or switch. The interface can be connected to an AC voltage source via a motion detector, for example to enable a corridor function or another motion-dependent control.

In order to avoid incorrect behavior of the operating device in response to an alternating signal received at the interface, the control signal must be able to be distinguished from an interference signal. Such an interference signal can be caused, for example, by capacitive or inductive coupling of a supply line, which is connected to a supply input of the operating device, to a line leading to the interface. Coupling of this type can become significant, particularly in the case of longer line lengths.

To detect whether an alternating signal present at the interface is really a control signal, the operating device can determine whether the alternating signal exceeds a threshold value. However, if the operating device is to be set up to recognize control signals with varying amplitudes, for example in the range from 90 V to 305 V, such conventional techniques have the difficulty that control signals cannot always be reliably recognized over such a wide range of amplitudes.

The invention has for its object to provide devices, systems and methods that reduce the problems described. In particular, the invention is based on the object of specifying devices, systems and methods in which an operating device can reliably detect whether an alternating signal present at an interface is a control signal, and in which the operating device also recognizes this for a wide range of amplitudes of the control signal supported.

Operating devices, a system and method are specified with the features specified in the independent claims. The dependent claims define embodiments of the invention.

According to embodiments of the invention, it is provided, depending on a period of time during which an alternating signal received at an interface of an operating device exceeds a threshold value, to determine whether the signal is a control signal.

Depending on the length of time during which the alternating signal reaches the threshold value, a conclusion can be drawn as to whether the alternating signal is the control signal. For example, the alternating signal can be recognized as a control signal if an amplitude of the alternating signal is equal to an amplitude of a supply voltage of the operating device. The amplitude of the alternating signal can be inferred from the time period during which the alternating signal exceeds the threshold value if the threshold value is smaller, in particular also significantly smaller, than the amplitude of the supply voltage.

/ 22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office The time period during which the alternating signal exceeds the threshold value can be processed further in different ways. For example, the amplitude of the alternating signal can be determined from the time period, the threshold value and a frequency or period of the alternating signal or the supply voltage. This can be done by calculation or based on a map. The amplitude of the alternating signal can be compared with an amplitude of the supply voltage in order to recognize the control signal.

Alternatively or additionally, the period of time during which the alternating signal exceeds the threshold value can be compared with the period of time for which the supply voltage exceeds the threshold value in order to recognize whether the alternating signal is the control signal or an interference signal.

An operating device for a lamp according to one embodiment comprises a supply input, a supply circuit for supplying the lamp, which is coupled to the supply input, and an interface. The operating device is set up to recognize, depending on a period of time in which an alternating signal received at the interface exceeds a threshold value during a half-wave of the alternating signal, whether the alternating signal is a control signal.

[0013] The operating device can be set up to determine, depending on the time period, whether an amplitude of the alternating signal is equal to an amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input.

The operating device can be set up to determine an amplitude of the alternating signal depending on the duration.

[0015] The operating device can be set up to recognize whether the alternating signal is the control signal as a function of a comparison of the determined amplitude of the alternating signal with an amplitude of an alternating supply voltage at the supply input.

The operating device can be set up to determine a further period of time in which a supply voltage at the supply input during a half-wave of the supply voltage exceeds the threshold value. The operating device can determine the further time period as a function of an amplitude of the supply voltage and as a function of the threshold value, arithmetically or based on a map.

The operating device can be set up to recognize, depending on a comparison of the time period and the further time period, whether the alternating signal is the control signal.

The operating device may comprise a comparison circuit which is set up to compare the alternating signal with the threshold value and to generate an output signal which indicates a result of the comparison. The comparison circuit can comprise a zener diode.

The operating device can comprise an electronic evaluation device for processing the output signal of the comparison circuit.

[0020] The electronic evaluation device can be set up to adapt processing of the output signal of the comparison circuit as a function of an amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input. The adaptation can include the adaptation of at least one threshold value and / or at least one regulation with which the amplitude is determined from the time period.

The operating device can be set up to control the supply circuit as a function of the alternating signal at the interface if the alternating signal is the control signal.

The operating device can be set up to dim the illuminant depending on the alternating signal if the alternating signal is the control signal. The control gear can be configured to be dependent on a dimming level or a change in the dimming level

2.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent office to determine how long the control signal is present at the interface.

The operating device can be set up to supply the illuminant with energy depending on the alternating signal. For example, in the case of a corridor function in which the control signal is provided to the interface via a motion detector, the lighting device can only be selectively supplied with increased power by the operating device when the motion detector reports a movement.

[0024] The operating device can be an LED converter.

An operating device for a lamp according to one embodiment comprises a supply input, a supply circuit for supplying the lamp, which is coupled to the supply input, and an interface. The operating device is set up to adapt a procedure for recognizing control signals at the interface depending on an amplitude and / or a frequency of a supply voltage at the supply input.

The operating device can comprise an electronic evaluation device which is set up to recognize the amplitude and / or the frequency of the supply voltage and to carry out the procedure for recognizing control signals which adapts depending on the amplitude and / or the frequency of the supply voltage has been.

The electronic evaluation device can be set up to change a threshold value comparison for the detection of control signals depending on the amplitude and / or the frequency of the supply voltage. An amplitude threshold value, with which an amplitude of an alternating signal at the interface is compared, can be set depending on the amplitude of the supply voltage.

The electronic evaluation device can be set up to change a calculation rule for recognizing control signals depending on the amplitude and / or the frequency of the supply voltage. The calculation of an amplitude of an alternating signal from a time period during which the alternating signal is greater than a threshold value can be carried out depending on the amplitude and the frequency of the supply voltage.

[0029] The electronic evaluation device can comprise an integrated semiconductor circuit or can be an integrated semiconductor circuit.

[0030] The operating device according to each of the exemplary embodiments can be an LED converter.

A lamp according to one embodiment comprises an operating device and an associated LED module.

A system according to an exemplary embodiment comprises an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment, a lamp which is connected to an output of the operating device and which comprises at least one light-emitting diode, a source for a supply voltage which is connected to the supply input of the operating device, and a Actuating device that is configured to conductively connect the source to the interface of the operating device.

[0033] The actuating device can comprise a switch, a button or a motion detector.

A method for operating an operating device for a lamp according to an embodiment is specified, wherein the operating device comprises a supply input, a supply circuit for supplying the lamp, which is coupled to the supply input, and an interface. The method comprises receiving an alternating signal at the interface and executing a procedure for recognizing whether the alternating signal received at the interface is a control signal for controlling the operating device. In this procedure, a time period in which an alternating signal received at the interface exceeds a threshold value during a half-wave of the alternating signal is determined. Depending on the length of time, it is recognized whether the alternating signal is the control signal for

3.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office

Control of the operating circuit is.

In the method, it can be determined depending on the period of time whether an amplitude of the alternating signal is equal to an amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input.

In the method, an amplitude of the alternating signal can be determined depending on the duration.

In the method, depending on a comparison of the determined amplitude of the alternating signal with an amplitude of an alternating supply voltage at the supply input, it can be recognized whether the alternating signal is the control signal.

In the method, a further period of time can be determined in which a supply voltage at the supply input exceeds the threshold value during a half-wave of the supply voltage. The further period of time can be determined based on an amplitude of the supply voltage and depending on the threshold value, based on the map or on a map.

In the method, depending on a comparison of the time period and the further time period, it can be recognized whether the alternating signal is the control signal.

In the method, a comparison circuit of the operating device can compare the alternating signal with the threshold value and generate an output signal which indicates a result of the comparison.

[0041] In the method, electronic processing of the output signal of the comparison circuit can be adapted as a function of an amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input. The adaptation can include the adaptation of at least one threshold value and / or at least one regulation with which the amplitude is determined from the time period.

In the method, the supply circuit can be controlled as a function of the alternating signal at the interface if the alternating signal is the control signal.

In the method, the lamp can be dimmed depending on the alternating signal if the alternating signal is the control signal. A dimming level or a change in the dimming level can be determined depending on how long the control signal is present at the interface.

In the method, the lamp can be supplied with energy depending on the alternating signal. For example, in the case of a corridor function in which the control signal is provided to the interface via a motion detector, the lighting device can only be selectively supplied with increased power by the operating device when the motion detector reports a movement.

The method can be carried out with the operating device or the system according to one embodiment.

A method for operating an operating device for a lamp according to an exemplary embodiment is specified, the operating device comprising a supply input, a supply circuit for supplying the lamp, which is coupled to the supply input, and an interface. The method comprises receiving an alternating signal at the interface and executing a procedure for recognizing whether the alternating signal received at the interface is a control signal for controlling the operating device. In the method, the procedure is adapted as a function of an amplitude and / or a frequency of a supply voltage at the supply input.

The method can include detecting the amplitude and / or the frequency of the supply voltage.

Adapting the procedure may include performing a threshold comparison

4.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office

Detection of control signals depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage is changed. An amplitude threshold value, with which an amplitude of an alternating signal at the interface is compared, can be set depending on the amplitude of the supply voltage.

Adapting the procedure can include changing a calculation rule for recognizing control signals depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. The calculation of an amplitude of an alternating signal from a time period during which the alternating signal is greater than a threshold value can be carried out depending on the amplitude and the frequency of the supply voltage.

[0050] The method can be carried out with the operating device or the system according to one exemplary embodiment.

The features of methods according to further exemplary embodiments and the effects achieved in each case correspond to the features that are described with reference to operating devices according to exemplary embodiments.

In operating devices, systems and methods according to exemplary embodiments, a reliable distinction between control signals and interference signals can be carried out even if the operating device is set up for use with control signals of different amplitudes. In particular, operating devices, systems and methods according to exemplary embodiments can reliably detect whether an alternating signal is supplied to the interface as a control signal, which is equal to a supply voltage at the supply input.

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

FIG. 1 shows a lighting system with an operating device for a lamp according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 shows waveforms for explaining the operation of an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 shows an alternating signal at an interface to explain the operation of an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 shows waveforms for explaining the operation of an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 10 is a flowchart of a method that can be performed by an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 10 is a flowchart of a method that can be performed by an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 10 is a flowchart of a method that can be performed by an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 shows an implementation of components for recognizing a control signal, which can be used in an operating device according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 shows an implementation of components for recognizing a control signal, which can be used in an operating device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method that can be carried out by an operating device according to an exemplary embodiment.

In the following, exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the figures

5.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office wrote. Even if some exemplary embodiments are described in the context of specific applications, such as in the context of LED converters, and in the context of specific structural features, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to this. The features of the various exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another, provided this is not expressly excluded in the description below.

Figure 1 shows a system 1, in which an operating device is designed according to an embodiment as an LED converter that supplies an LED module 7 with energy. The illuminant can comprise a light emitting diode (LED) or a plurality of LEDs 8. The LEDs 8 can be inorganic or organic LEDs.

During operation, the LED converter 10 is coupled on the input side to a supply voltage source 2, for example a mains voltage. The LED converter 10 may include a rectifier and a power factor correction circuit 11. The LED converter 10 can comprise at least one converter circuit 12. The converter circuit 12 can be a DC / DC converter, which comprises at least one controllable switch 13.

A control device of the LED converter 10, the function of which can be integrated in the evaluation device 24 described in more detail below, can comprise one or more integrated semiconductor circuits. The control device can be set up to control the operation of the LED converter 10. The control device can be set up to switch at least one controllable switch 13 of the converter circuit 12 in a clocked manner. The control device can, for example, be set up to control or regulate an output current of the LED converter 10 and to control the at least one controllable switch 13 of the converter circuit 12. The control device can be designed as an application-specific special circuit (ASIC, “Application Specific Integrated Circuit”), as a controller, as a microcontroller, as a processor, as a microprocessor or as another chip or as a combination of such units.

The LED module 7 is set up to receive energy for operating the at least one light-emitting diode 8 from the LED converter 10. For this purpose, the LED module 7 can have an input which is electrically conductively connected to an output of the LED converter 10. Alternatively or additionally, the LED module 7 and the LED converter 10 can be set up for wireless energy transmission. For this purpose, the LED converter 10 can have an antenna for wireless energy transmission. The LED module 7 can have a further antenna in order to receive the wirelessly transmitted energy.

The LED module 7 can comprise a rectifier circuit 9 or a driver circuit 9 which is connected between the input and the at least one light-emitting diode 9.

The LED converter 10 has a supply input 21, which is connected to the source 2 via supply lines 21. The LED converter 10 has an interface 22 in order to receive a control signal. To control the LED converter 10, the source 2 can also be selectively connected to the interface 22 via at least one line 5 in order to apply the supply voltage to the interface 22.

Different applications for such a control of the LED converter 10 are possible. A button 4, a switch or another actuatable element can be connected between the source 2 and the interface 22. Actuation of the button 4, switch or other actuatable element can lead to the supply voltage being selectively applied as a control signal to the interface 22. In this way, for example, a dimming function can be implemented. The LED converter 10 can determine which dimming level should be set and / or by which increment or decrement the dimming level should be changed depending on the duration over which the button 4 is actuated.

In another embodiment, a motion detector can comprise a controllable switch 4 in order to implement a corridor function. The source 2 is selectively connected to the interface 22 when motion is detected. The LED converter 10 can have an output current, an output voltage or an output power of the LED

6.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office

Selectively increase converter 10 when the motion detector passes the supply voltage as a control signal to interface 22.

Due to a capacitive or inductive coupling between the supply lines 3 and the at least one further line 5, an interference signal can be present at the interface 22, even if the button 4 or other controllable switch is not closed. The interference signal can be a dummy signal due to the capacitive coupling.

1 shows a capacitance 6. The capacitance 6 can represent a parasitic capacitance of supply lines. The capacitance 6 can be a parasitic capacitance which is responsible for the interference signal. Alternatively or additionally, a parasitic inductance, which is not shown in FIG. 1, can be responsible for the interference signal. Such a parasitic inductance can be present in parallel or in series with the capacitance 6.

The LED converter 10 is set up to recognize whether an alternating signal received at the interface 22 is a control signal or an interference signal. The LED converter 10 can be set up to recognize whether the alternating signal at the interface 22 has an amplitude that is equal to an amplitude of a supply voltage present at the supply input 21.

As will be described in more detail, the LED converter 10 is configured to determine whether at the interface, depending on a time period in which an alternating signal received at the interface 22 in a half-wave of the alternating signal is greater than a threshold value 22 there is a control signal which has the same amplitude as the supply voltage at the supply input 21. This can be done in different ways. The LED converter 10 can, in combination with a frequency of the supply voltage and the threshold value, calculate the amplitude of the alternating signal from the time period in which an alternating signal received at the interface 22 is greater than a threshold value in a half-wave of the alternating signal. Alternatively or additionally, the LED converter 10 can determine, by calculation or by measurement, how long the supply voltage at the supply input 10 per half-wave is greater than the threshold value and compare this with the time period in which an alternating signal received at the interface 22 in a half-wave of the alternating signal is greater than the threshold.

The LED converter 10 can comprise a comparison circuit 23 connected to the interface, which compares the signal present at the interface 22 with a threshold value. An output signal of the comparison circuit 23 can then change its signal level when the alternating signal reaches the threshold value. The output signal of the comparison circuit 23 can have a first signal level if the alternating signal is less than the threshold value. The output signal of the comparison circuit 23 can have a second signal level different from the first signal level if the alternating signal is greater than the threshold value.

The LED converter 10 can comprise an evaluation device 24, which is set up to determine whether the time period in which the alternating signal 22 per half-wave is greater than the threshold value matches a control signal whose amplitude is equal to the supply voltage , The evaluation device 24 can comprise at least one integrated semiconductor circuit. The semiconductor integrated circuit can be a microcontroller, controller, processor, microprocessor or another semiconductor integrated circuit or a combination of such semiconductor circuits. The integrated semiconductor circuit can be set up to determine the amplitude of the alternating signal from the time period in which the alternating signal per half-wave is greater than the threshold value, the threshold value and a frequency or period duration of the alternating signal. As an alternative or in addition, the integrated semiconductor circuit can be set up to determine from the amplitude of the supply voltage at the supply input 21, from the threshold value and the frequency of the supply voltage at the supply input 21 a time period in which the supply voltage per half-wave is greater than the threshold value. The integrated semiconductor circuit of the evaluation device 24 can be coupled via a detection circuit or directly to the supply input 21

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent office pelt.

If it is recognized that the alternating signal at the interface 22 is a control signal, for example because its amplitude is equal to an amplitude of the supply voltage at the supply input 21, the LED converter can be controlled depending on the control signal. A dimming function can be carried out, which depends on how long the control signal is present at the interface 22. The LED converter 10 can selectively increase an output power or an output current while the control signal is present at the interface 22, for example in order to implement a corridor function.

The mode of operation and configuration of the LED converter 10 according to exemplary embodiments is further explained with reference to FIGS. 2 to 12.

Figure 2 illustrates waveforms to explain the operation and configuration of the LED converter 10 according to an embodiment.

A supply voltage 30 is present at the supply input 21, which is an AC voltage with a period 32 and an amplitude 31.

An alternating signal 40 is present at the interface 22. The alternating signal 40 can be an interference signal 41. The interference signal 41 can be generated by capacitive or inductive coupling between the supply lines 3 and the at least one line 5. The interference signal 41 differs from a control signal in its amplitude. An amplitude 42 of the interference signal 41 is smaller than an amplitude of the control signal, which can be equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage.

The change signal 40 can be a control signal 45. In this case, an amplitude 46 of the alternating signal can be equal to the amplitude 31 of the supply voltage.

In order to recognize whether the control signal 45 or only an interference signal 41 with a different amplitude is present at the interface 22, a comparison is made with a threshold value 39. It is determined whether and for how long the threshold value 39 is exceeded. The LED converter 10 can also be set up to determine quantitatively whether a time period 47 in which the alternating signal 40 exceeds the threshold value is such that it can be concluded that the amplitude 46 of the alternating signal 40 is equal to the amplitude 31 of the supply voltage 30 must be.

If the LED converter 10 is set up for use with different supply voltages, the threshold value 39 can be selected such that it is smaller than the smallest supply voltage amplitude for which the LED converter 10 is set up. For example, if LED converter 10 is configured for use with a first supply voltage having a first supply voltage amplitude and with a second supply voltage having a second supply voltage amplitude, threshold 39 may be chosen to be less than the smaller of is the first supply voltage amplitude and the second supply voltage amplitude. The threshold value 39 can be fixed or can be set by the LED converter 10 depending on the supply voltage amplitude of the supply voltage applied to the supply input 21.

The evaluation device 24 can carry out the further evaluation as to whether the control signal 45 is present at the interface 22. The comparison circuit 23 can optionally be provided. An output signal 50 of the comparison circuit can have a first signal level if the alternating signal is less than the threshold value. The output signal 50 of the comparison circuit 23 can have a second signal level different from the first signal level if the alternating signal is greater than the threshold value. The output signal 50 of the comparison circuit has pulses 51, 52. Depending on whether the alternating signal 40 is an interference signal 41 with a smaller amplitude 42 or a control signal with an amplitude 46, which can correspond to the amplitude of the supply voltage, the output signal 50 has pulses 51 with a duration 43 which indicate that the interference signal is present, or

8.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office

Pulse 52 with a duration 47, which indicate that the control signal is present.

Further implementations for recognizing whether the control signal 45 is present at the interface 22 are described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 12.

If it is recognized that the control signal 45 is present at the interface 22, the evaluation device 24 can control an output current, an output voltage, an output power or another variable of the LED converter 10. For example, a dimming process can be carried out, a change in the dimming level depending on the duration 48 of the control signal 45 being present at the interface 22. The output current or the output power can be increased as long as the control signal 45 is present at the interface 22.

Figure 3 illustrates the further processing of the alternating signal in an LED converter 10 according to an embodiment.

It can be seen, at least in positive half-waves of the alternating signal 40, the period over which the alternating signal per half-wave exceeds the threshold value 39. This time period can also be referred to as T _T h. For an alternating signal 40, which is an interference signal 41 and whose amplitude 42 is smaller than the amplitude of the supply voltage, the time period T _{TH is} shorter than for an alternating signal 40, which is a control signal 45 and whose amplitude 46 is equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage.

The amplitude of the alternating signal in the respective half-wave can be determined by the evaluation device 24 from the time period T _TH by calculation or map-based. For example, the amplitude of the alternating signal can be determined as

V _peak = V _TH / Sin [π · ((Τ _Ρ / 2) -Τ _ΤΗ ) / Τ _ρ ] (1) where V _peak denotes the amplitude of the alternating signal, V _TH denotes the threshold voltage 39 and T _P the period of the alternating signal designated. If, as in the system 1 of FIG. 1, the control signal has not only the same amplitude but also the same frequency as the supply voltage, the period of the alternating signal T _P does not have to be determined separately, but it can be used that the period of the alternating signal T _{P is} equal to the period of the supply voltage at the supply input 21.

The voltage amplitude V _peak determined by the evaluation device can be compared to a discrimination threshold value V _disc . The discrimination threshold V _disc can depend on the supply voltage amplitude.

[0094] For example, a signal can be recognized as a control signal if

and can be recognized as an interference signal if

Vpeak Vdisc (3) The discrimination threshold may be set as a function of the supply voltage amplitude V _peak , _supp

(4) where s is a factor that is equal to or less than one.

While the distinction between control signal and interference signal was explained with reference to equations (1) to (4) in the event that the signal amplitudes are compared, the corresponding comparison can of course also be carried out with any other scaling. For example, the amplitude voltages can be rescaled into the nominal amplitudes of a sinusoidal signal to perform the operations described with reference to equations (1) to (4).

[0097] FIG. 4 illustrates the further processing of the alternating signal with an LED

9.22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office

Converter 10 according to an embodiment.

It can be seen, at least in positive half-waves of the alternating signal 40, over what time period T _TH per half-wave the alternating signal exceeds the threshold value 39. For an alternating signal 40, which is an interference signal 41 and whose amplitude 42 is smaller than the amplitude of the supply voltage, the time period T _T h is shorter than for an alternating signal 40, which is a control signal 45 and whose amplitude 46 is equal to the amplitude of the supply voltage ,

The LED converter 10 can be set up to determine a comparison time period 37 by calculation, map-based or by measurement. The comparison period 37 can be determined for the supply voltage in such a way that it specifies the period over which the supply voltage is greater than the threshold value 39 per half-wave of the supply voltage.

The comparison period 37 can be determined, for example, as

Toomp (Tp / 2) - Tp asin (V _TH / Vp _ea k _SU pp) / tt, (5) where T _{comp is} the comparison period during which the supply voltage per half-wave is greater than the threshold value V _T h, Tp is the period of the supply voltage and Vp _e ak, s _U pp is the amplitude of the supply voltage.

For a sinusoidal supply voltage, the comparison period 37 can be determined, for example, as

Tcomp ~ (Tp / 2) - Tp asin [V _T H / (V _supp '/ 2)] / π, (6) where V _{supp is} the square-averaged supply voltage at supply input 21.

The time period T _TH determined by the evaluation device, during which the alternating signal at the interface 22 is greater than the threshold value, can be compared with the comparison time period Tcomp in order to recognize a control signal.

For example, an alternating signal can be recognized at the interface 22 as a control signal, if

TtH - Tcomp; (7) and can be recognized as an interference signal if

Τ-ΓΗ Tcomp (8).

While the distinction between control signal and interference signal was explained with reference to equations (5) to (8) for the case that the time period in which the alternating signal per half-wave exceeds the threshold value with one of the supply voltage at the supply input and the Comparing the threshold value dependent comparison period, modifications can also be implemented. For example, instead of the asin function in equation (5), a function approximating the asin function can be evaluated.

As has been described with reference to Figure 1 to Figure 4, the procedure for recognizing a control signal at the signal input 22 depends on the amplitude and / or the period of the supply voltage. According to exemplary embodiments, a procedure for recognizing a control signal is thus automatically adapted depending on the amplitude and / or period duration or frequency of a supply voltage at the supply input 21.

The evaluation device 24 can be set up to automatically determine a root mean square, an amplitude and / or a period or frequency of the supply voltage. At least one parameter of a procedure for recognizing the control signal can be automatically adapted depending on the ascertained root mean square, the ascertained amplitude and / or the period or frequency of the supply voltage

10/22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Become a patent office. The at least one parameter can be included in a calculation rule, such as in equation (1) or equation (5) or equation (6). The at least one parameter can influence a discrimination threshold value to distinguish between control signals and interference signals, as in equations (2) to (4).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method 60 according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 60 can be carried out automatically by the LED converter 10 according to one exemplary embodiment.

In step 61, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at the interface 22 per half-wave is greater than a threshold value TH. For this purpose, a comparison circuit 23 can be used, the output signal of which is further evaluated by the evaluation device 24.

In step 62 it is determined depending on the period of time whether the alternating signal received at the interface 22 is the control signal. For this purpose, depending on the period of time, it can be determined whether the amplitude of the alternating signal at the interface 22 is equal to an amplitude of a supply voltage at the supply input. The determination can be carried out as described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. If it is recognized that the alternating signal is not an interference signal, the method can return to step 61.

In step 63, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal if it is detected that the control signal is present at the interface 22. A dimming function can be carried out, which depends on how long the control signal is present at the interface 22. An output power or an output current of the LED converter 10 can be selectively increased while the control signal is present at the interface 22, for example in order to implement a corridor function. The method can then return to step 61.

Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method 70 according to an embodiment. The method 70 can be carried out automatically by the LED converter 10 according to one exemplary embodiment.

In step 71, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at the interface 22 per half-wave is greater than a threshold value TH. This can be done as described for step 61.

In step 72, the amplitude of the alternating signal is determined from the time period during which the alternating signal received at the interface 22 per half-wave is greater than the threshold value. This can be done mathematically or based on a map. The determination of the amplitude, regardless of whether it is carried out by calculation or based on a map, can depend on the threshold voltage 39 and the period of the supply voltage, as was described with reference to FIG. 3.

In step 73 to determine whether the alternating signal is the control signal, the amplitude determined for the alternating signal from the time period is compared with the supply voltage amplitude of the supply voltage. The supply voltage amplitude can be determined, for example, from the square-averaged supply voltage. It can be determined whether the amplitude determined for the alternating signal is equal to the supply voltage amplitude. If it is determined in this way that the alternating signal at the interface is not the control signal, the method can return to step 71.

In step 74, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal if it is detected that the control signal is present at the interface 22. This can be done, for example, as described for step 63.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method 70 according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 70 can be carried out automatically by the LED converter 10 according to one exemplary embodiment.

In step 71, a time period is determined during which the on the interface 22nd

11/22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Received alternating signal per half-wave is greater than a threshold TH. This can be done as described for step 61.

In step 72, the amplitude of the alternating signal is determined from the time period during which the alternating signal received at the interface 22 per half-wave is greater than the threshold value. This can be done mathematically or based on a map. The determination of the amplitude, irrespective of whether it is carried out by calculation or based on a map, can depend on the threshold voltage 39 and the period of the supply voltage, as was described with reference to FIG. 3.

In step 73, to determine whether the alternating signal is the control signal, the amplitude determined for the alternating signal from the time period is compared with the supply voltage amplitude of the supply voltage. The supply voltage amplitude can be determined, for example, from the square-averaged supply voltage. It can be determined whether the amplitude determined for the alternating signal is equal to the supply voltage amplitude. If it is determined in this way that the alternating signal at the interface is not the control signal, the method can return to step 71.

In step 74, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal if it is detected that the control signal is present at the interface 22. This can be done, for example, as described for step 63.

Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method 80 according to an embodiment. The method 80 can be carried out automatically by the LED converter 10 according to one exemplary embodiment.

In step 81, a comparison period is determined, during which the supply voltage received at supply input 21 per half-wave is greater than a threshold value TH. The comparison period can be carried out by measurement or by calculation, as was described with reference to FIG. 4.

In step 82, a time period is determined during which the alternating signal received at the interface 22 per half-wave is greater than a threshold value TH. This can be done as described for step 61.

In step 83, to determine whether the alternating signal is the control signal, the time period in which the alternating signal at the interface 22 per half-wave is greater than the threshold value, is compared with the comparison time period in which the supply voltage per half-wave is greater than that Threshold is. It can be determined whether the time period determined for the alternating signal is equal to the comparison time period. If it is determined in this way that the alternating signal at the interface is not the control signal, the method can return to step 81.

In step 84, the operation of the LED converter can be influenced depending on the control signal if it is detected that the control signal is present at the interface 22. This can be done, for example, as described for step 63.

Figure 8 shows components of an LED converter 10, which can be used to carry out a procedure for recognizing a control signal, with which the control signal can be distinguished from interference signals. The components can in particular be set up in such a way that the procedure for recognizing the control signal is automatically adapted to different supply voltage amplitudes.

[00127] A comparator 25 can be connected to the interface 22. A voltage V | between the connections of the interface 22 can be compared with a threshold value V _T h. An output signal of the comparator 25 can be fed to an optocoupler 26, which galvanically separates an integrated semiconductor circuit 90 from the interface 22.

The integrated semiconductor circuit 90 can be set up to detect an amplitude and / or a frequency of a supply voltage at the supply voltage input 21. The semiconductor integrated circuit 90 can have a circuit 91 for detection

12/22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent office of the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage include.

The semiconductor integrated circuit 90 can comprise a circuit 92 for distinguishing between control and interference signals. The circuit 92 can, for example, use one of the techniques described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7 to recognize a control signal. The detection of the control signal is automatically adapted depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. For example, map-based or arithmetic processing of a time period in which the alternating signal at the interface 22 is greater than the threshold value can depend on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage. A criterion for discriminating the control signal and the interference signal can be adapted depending on the amplitude and / or frequency of the supply voltage.

The semiconductor integrated circuit 90 may comprise a control circuit which, depending on whether the circuit 92 identifies the alternating signal as a control signal, controls or regulates the operation of the LED converter 10. For example, the control circuit can switch at least one controllable switch of a DC / DC converter 12 of the LED converter 10 in a clocked manner. The control circuit can change the control of the controllable switch if the signal present at the interface is a control signal, for example to carry out a dimming process or to increase the output power or the output current of the LED converter 10 in response to a detected movement.

Figure 9 shows components of an LED converter 10, which can be used to carry out a procedure for recognizing a control signal, with which the control signal can be distinguished from interference signals. The components can in particular be set up in such a way that the procedure for recognizing the control signal is automatically adapted to different supply voltage amplitudes.

The interface 22 at which an alternating signal V | is present, can be connected to a comparison circuit 102 via a rectifier 101. The comparison circuit 102 has a zener diode 103. Zener diode 103 also defines a threshold circuit, the threshold value of the voltage being determined by the breakdown voltage of Zener diode 103. The Zener diode 103 only switches through when a predetermined threshold voltage is exceeded, so that only the peak values above a predetermined threshold value of one of the two half-waves of the AC voltage signal pass through the Zener diode 103. The resulting signal is fed to a base of a transistor 107 via an ohmic resistor 104. An emitter of transistor 107 is fed back via an ohmic resistor 106, for example to a base of transistor 107, and is also connected to a reference potential P _o . This feedback transistor 107 provides an approximately rectangular pulse shape. The output signal of the comparison circuit 202 is the signal at the collector of the transistor 107.

[00133] The output signal of the comparison circuit can be transmitted to the integrated semiconductor circuit 90 via a further Zener diode 108 and an optocoupler 108.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method 110 which can be carried out automatically by the LED converter 10. The detection of control signals is automatically adapted to the supply voltage amplitude and / or supply voltage frequency.

At step 111, an amplitude and / or a frequency of a supply voltage of the LED converter is recognized. This can be carried out at least in part by the semiconductor integrated circuit 90.

At step 112, at least one parameter of a procedure is set to a value that depends on the supply voltage amplitude and / or supply voltage frequency. The at least one parameter can be a term of an equation. The at least one parameter can define a characteristic map with which an amplitude of the alternating signal is generated from a time period in which an alternating signal at the interface 22 is greater than a threshold value

13/22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent office nals is determined. The at least one parameter can be a threshold value of a threshold value comparison.

In step 113, it can be determined using the adapted procedure whether an alternating signal received at the interface 22 is the control signal.

In the operating devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments, the operating device can be set up to be operated with different supply voltages, while control signals at the interface 22 can still be reliably recognized.

While operating devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments have been described in detail with reference to the figures, modifications can be realized in further exemplary embodiments. For example, while exemplary embodiments have been described in detail in which the time period in which the alternating signal exceeds a threshold value is used to distinguish between the control signal and the interference signal, techniques for adapting procedures for recognizing control signals can also be used if such a threshold value comparison is not carried out ,

Operating devices and methods according to exemplary embodiments can be used in particular for operating lights which comprise LEDs, without being limited thereto.

14/22

AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian

Patent Office

Claims (10)

Expectations 1. Operating device for a lamp (7), comprising: - a supply input (21), - A supply circuit (12) for supplying the lighting means (7), which is coupled to the supply input (21), and - An interface (22), characterized in that the operating device (10) is set up to depend on a time period (43, 47) in which an alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) during a half-wave of the Alternating signal (41,45) exceeds a threshold value (39) to recognize whether the alternating signal (41,45) is a control signal. 2. Operating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the operating device (10) is set up to determine an amplitude (42, 46) of the alternating signal (41, 45) depending on the time period (43, 47); and / or that the operating device (10) is set up in order to recognize whether, depending on a comparison of the determined amplitude (42, 46) of the alternating signal (41, 45) with an amplitude (31) of an alternating supply voltage at the supply input (21) the alternating signal (41, 45) is the control signal; and / or that the operating device (10) is set up to determine a further time period (37) in which a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21) exceeds the threshold value (39) during a half-wave of the supply voltage (30); and / or that the operating device (10) is set up to recognize, depending on a comparison of the time period (43, 47) and the further time period (37), whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is the control signal. 3. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating device (10) comprises a comparison circuit (23) which is set up to compare the alternating signal (41, 45) with the threshold value (39) and an output signal ( 50), which indicates a result of the comparison. 4. Operating device according to claim 3, characterized in that the operating device (10) comprises an electronic evaluation device (24) for processing the output signal (50) of the comparison circuit (23), wherein the electronic evaluation device (24) is in particular set up for processing to adapt the output signal (50) of the comparison circuit (23) as a function of an amplitude (31) of a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21). 5. Operating device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating device (10) is set up to control the supply circuit (12) as a function of the alternating signal (41, 45) at the interface (22) if the alternating signal (41 , 45) is the control signal; and / or that the operating device (10) is set up to dim the lighting means (7) as a function of the alternating signal (41, 45). 6. Operating device for a lamp (7), comprising: - a supply input (21), - A supply circuit (12) for supplying the lighting means (7), which is coupled to the supply input (21), and - An interface (22), characterized in that the operating device (10) is set up to carry out a procedure for recognizing control signals (45) at the interface (22) depending on an amplitude (31) and / or a frequency of a supply voltage ( 30) to adapt to the supply input (21). 15/22 AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian Patent Office 7. Operating device according to claim 6, comprising an electronic evaluation device (24) which is set up to recognize the amplitude (31) and / or the frequency of the supply voltage (30) and to carry out the procedure for recognizing control signals. 8. Operating device according to claim 7, characterized in that the electronic evaluation device (24) is set up to change a threshold value comparison for the detection of control signals (45) depending on the amplitude (31) and / or the frequency of the supply voltage; and / or that the electronic evaluation device (24) comprises an integrated semiconductor circuit (90). 9. System comprising: - An operating device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, a lamp (7) which is connected to an output of the operating device (10) and which comprises at least one light-emitting diode (8), - A source (2) for a supply voltage, which is connected to the supply input (21) of the operating device (10), characterized in that the system has an actuating device (4) which is set up to conduct the source (2) connected to the interface (22) of the operating device (10), the actuating device (4) in particular comprising a switch, a push button or a detection detector. 10. Method for operating an operating device (10) for a lamp (7), the operating device (10) having a supply input (21), a supply circuit (12) for supplying the lamp (7), which is coupled to the supply input (21) and comprises an interface (22), characterized in that the method comprises: - Receiving an alternating signal (41, 45) at the interface (22), and - Executing a procedure for recognizing whether the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) is a control signal for controlling the operating device (10), a period of time (43, 47) in which a at the interface (22 ) received alternating signal (41, 45) during a half-wave of the alternating signal (41, 45) exceeds a threshold value (39), is determined, and depending on the time period (43, 47) it is recognized whether the alternating signal (41, 45) is Control signal for controlling the operating circuit; and / or that the method comprises: - Receiving an alternating signal (41, 45) at the interface (22), and - Execution of a procedure for recognizing whether the alternating signal (41, 45) received at the interface (22) is a control signal for controlling the operating device (10), the procedure depending on an amplitude (31) and / or a frequency of a supply voltage (30) at the supply input (21) is adapted. 6 sheets of drawings 16/22 AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian Patent Office FIG. 1 17/22 AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15, Austrian * Patent Office output Comparison circuit alternating signal supply voltage FIG. 2 18/22 AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian Patent Office Alternating signal supply voltage alternating signal FIG. 3 FIG. 4 19/22 AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian Patent Office FIG. 5 FIG. 6 20/22 AT 16 197 U1 2019-03-15 Austrian Patent Office FIG. 7 FIG. 8th 21/22 AT16197U1 2019-03-15 Austrian Patent Office FIG. 9 FIG. 10 22/22