Improved compact fluorescent light bulb is dimmable

William Atkins
Monday, 13 April 2009 17:53

Science - Energy

The solution to these problems was worked out with the help of Ph.D. candidate John Lam while at the Queen’s Centre for Energy and Power Electronics Applied Research Laboratory (ePEARL) at Queen’s University.

Lam developed a compact, simpler circuitry that solves the power problem, along with making CFLs dimmable, too.

Lam states, "Understanding the significance of the problem motivated me to work hard at finding a solution.”

The new more-energy-efficient-and-dimmable bulbs can directly replace existing CFLs.

Dr. Jain states, "We were able to develop a more power-efficient, dimmable and cost-effective CFL technology that can truly replace the power-hungry incandescent light bulbs. This makes it very attractive to the consumer market."

The new method creates a more energy-efficient CFL, along with the ability to dim the amount of light emitted by the bulbs.

According to the Queen's University article, PARTEQ Innovations, the technology transfer office of the school, will work with major CFL manufacturers to bring the technology to market.

John Molley, president and CEO of PARTEQ, states, "This is an excellent example of university research providing an innovative solution well in advance of a potential market problem. The key to providing useable innovation is understanding the problems of existing technology and finding elegant solutions. Here we have a motivated researcher who saw a key problem and delivered the solution to an industry in need, in time to make a difference."