Single-stage power-factor-correcting discharge lamp ballast
This technology is a control device for discharge lamps (such as high-intensity fluorescent or HID lamps) that efficiently converts standard AC power into the precise voltages needed to ignite and run the lamp. It uses a single shared switching component to simultaneously improve power factor and perform DC voltage conversion, reducing component count compared to conventional designs. The integrated approach means the device draws cleaner power from the grid while supplying the lamp with a stable, properly shaped output. A polarity-reversing circuit and a high-voltage starter circuit are also built in, making this a complete lamp-driving solution in one compact unit.
What you could build
A compact, efficient ballast module for commercial or industrial discharge lighting systems, sold to lighting fixture OEMs or building systems integrators targeting energy-efficient retrofits and new construction.
Who in Virginia should care
Commercial lighting manufacturers, federal facilities contractors (given Virginia's proximity to federal campuses), and defense facility operators managing large-scale discharge lighting infrastructure would have interest.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Fred C. Lee, Jinghai Zhou, Yan Jiang, Masanao Okawa, Dung A. Tran, Hiroyasu Eriguchi
- Granted
- June 24, 2008
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 7391165
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.