Systems and methods for a transformer configuration for driving multiple gas discharge tubes in parallel
US7141933B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 20, 2004 |
| Grant date | Nov 28, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 31, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05B41/2827
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and methods for balancing current in multiple negative impedance gas discharge lamp loads. Embodiments advantageously include balancing transformer configurations that are relatively cost-effective, reliable, efficient, and good performing. Embodiments include configurations that are applicable to any number of gas discharge tubes, such as cold cathode fluorescent lamps. The balancing transformer configuration techniques permit a relatively small number of power inverters, such as one power inverter, to power multiple lamps in parallel. One embodiment of a balancing transformer includes a safety winding which can be used to protect the balancing transformer in the event of a lamp failure and can be used to provide an indication of a failed lamp.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.