New, modular energy converter topologies and arrangements for controlling the luminous intensity of fluorescent lamps

The paper shows new topologies for electronic ballasts with luminous intensity control. An electronic ballast for both DC and AC supply can be assembled from the developed energy converter modules. In the case of AC supply, the high power factor of the unit can also be achieved. Fluorescent lamps are supplied by DC or square-wave form AC current at all arrangements. Due to the above fact, the blinking of the fluorescent lamps and the stroboscope effect reflected from the moving parts do not occur; furthermore, there is no chance for plasma resonance and better efficiency can be also achieved. The arrangements are suitable for AC line and vehicle lighting, for general lighting of considerable larger rooms and, moreover, for applications at electric score indicators and running news. In all cases, the luminous intensity of fluorescent lamps can be controlled one by one. The converter topologies suitable for energy converter modules have been examined; furthermore, the important conclusions for electronic ballasts have been summarised in the paper. The converter topologies are applicable for both “user-friendly” rectifiers and current controlling choppers. The paper also shows the details of the circuit for heating and striking the fluorescent lamps