Multi-lamp drive device

Abstract

A multi-lamp drive device comprises a transformer, a drive circuit and at least a balanced inductor. The magnetic core of the transformer has a first side column, a second side column and at least a central column. A primary coil and a secondary coil are wound around the first side column and the second side column, respectively. The drive circuit can output an excitation power source to the transformer for driving lamps to be on based on the energy conversion characteristic of the transformer. With the help of the central column, the transformer can guide the counter magnetic flux generated by the load current without interfering the power conversion action of the transformer. Moreover, heat generated by the transformer due to a too larger load current can be reduced, and the protection function for the transformer during short circuit can also be accomplished.

1 - 16 . (canceled)  
   
   
       17 . A transformer of a multi-lamp drive device, comprising: 
 a magnetic core having a first side column, a second side column and at least a central column between said first and second side columns;    a primary coil wound around said first side column and electrically coupled with an excitation power source; and    a second coil wound around said second side column and electrically coupled with one end of at least a lamp.    
   
   
       18 . The transformer of a multi-lamp drive device as claimed in  claim 17 , wherein said magnetic core is composed of two E-shaped magnetic cores.  
   
   
       19 . The transformer of a multi-lamp drive device as claimed in  claim 17 , wherein said magnetic core is composed of an E-shaped magnetic core and an I-shaped magnetic core.  
   
   
       20 . The transformer of a multi-lamp drive device as claimed in  claim 17 , wherein said magnetic core is composed of two-inverse U-shaped magnetic cores and two L-shaped magnetic cores.