Lighting device with circuit and method for detecting power converter activity
US8810146B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 4, 2011 |
| Grant date | Aug 19, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 11, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B70/10
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A lighting device such as an electronic ballast or LED driver includes circuitry to detect power converter activity and act accordingly. A power factor correction (PFC) circuit includes an inductor, a power converter switch, and a PFC controller effective to provide driving signals the power converter switch to turn on and off. A power converter activity detection circuit includes a first capacitor coupled between the PFC controller and the power converter switch, a zener diode, and a second capacitor coupled between the first capacitor and ground. An output voltage for the power converter activity detection circuit as referenced from a node between the first capacitor and the second capacitor is representative of activity by the power converter switch, and is provided to a lighting device controller which may accordingly maintain operation of the lighting device where a mains power interruption is only temporary but would otherwise disable the device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.