LED tubular lighting device

Abstract

A light emitting diode (LED) tubular lighting device (1) is disclosed comprising an elongated hollow tubular member (2) and a plurality of LEDs. The plurality of LEDs comprises at least a plurality of first LEDs (10) and a plurality of second LEDs (11, 12, 13), where each of the first LEDs (10) is configured to emit purple light, and each of the second LEDs (11, 12, 13) is configured to emit ultraviolet light. The LED tubular lighting device (1) comprises an elongate carrier (8) arranged within an elongate hollow tubular member (2). The plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence on the elongate carrier (8), where the plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence such that the distance between consecutive LEDs in the at least one sequence varies over the at least one sequence while the distance between consecutive first LEDs (10) in the at least one sequence is constant over the at least one sequence.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a light emitting diode (LED) tube lighting device, which comprises an elongated carrier and a plurality of LEDs arranged on the elongated carrier. Background Art

[0002] It is desirable to protect people from the spread of pathogens (e.g., bacteria or viruses, such as influenza) or from the outbreak of new viruses (such as the recent COVID-19). Disinfection has become a topic of renewed interest as the demand for sterilization increases. For example, in medical facilities, disinfecting medical devices and other medical equipment is very important to reduce the spread of pathogens and prevent the spread of disease between individuals.

[0003] In WO 2015 / 066069, a linear lamp is provided in which one or more light emitting elements are provided. The light emitting elements are directed to emit light in a direction different from the main illumination direction of the lamp. The light emitting elements may be supported by a supporting optical element. The supporting optical element may allow light to be transmitted therethrough. The supporting optical element may be a necessary window on which the light emitting elements are arranged. Summary of the invention

[0004] Disinfection can be accomplished by using violet light. Another way of disinfection involves the use of ultraviolet (UV) light. As a response to pathogenic outbreaks involving airborne microorganisms, it is beneficial to use violet or UV light to disinfect the air and objects at locations where such microbial transmission is believed to occur.

[0005] In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device that is capable of providing lighting for general illumination purposes and that is also capable of providing a disinfecting effect during operation.

[0006] To address at least one of this and other concerns, a light emitting diode (LED) tube lighting device according to the independent claim is provided. Preferred embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

[0007] In the context of the present application, the term "light" may not be limited to visible light, but may cover at least ultraviolet radiation, and thus may be referred to herein as "ultraviolet light".

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an LED tubular lighting device is provided. The LED tubular lighting device can provide light, which can be referred to as device light. The LED tubular lighting device includes an elongated (hollow) tubular member having a first end and a second end. The elongated hollow tubular member includes a light exit surface, which extends at least partially between the first end and the second end. The LED tubular lighting device includes a plurality of LEDs. Each of the plurality of LEDs is configured to emit light in operation. The plurality of LEDs includes at least a plurality of first LEDs, wherein each of the first LEDs is configured to emit violet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 380nm to 420nm. The plurality of LEDs includes a plurality of second LEDs, wherein each of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 100nm to 380nm. The LED tubular lighting device includes an elongated carrier. The elongated carrier is arranged in the elongated hollow tubular member. The plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence on the elongated carrier so that at least some of the violet light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs and at least some of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs are emitted from the LED tubular lighting device via the light exit surface, for example as device light. The plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence so that the distance between at least some consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence varies over at least one sequence, while the distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence is constant or substantially constant over at least one sequence.

[0009] The distance between consecutive LEDs of the plurality of LEDs in at least one sequence and the distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence may be referred to as the pitch of the plurality of LEDs in at least one sequence and the pitch of the first LEDs in at least one sequence, respectively. Thus, the pitch of the plurality of LEDs in at least one sequence (e.g. over the length of the elongated carrier) may vary over at least one sequence, whereas the pitch of the plurality of first LEDs may be constant or substantially constant over at least one sequence.

[0010] By arranging a plurality of LEDs in at least one sequence so that the distance between consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence varies over at least one sequence, and arranging the first LEDs in at least one sequence so that the distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence is constant over at least one sequence, it is possible to achieve homogeneous or uniform distribution of purple light on or along the light exit surface. At the same time, disinfection using UV light can be provided in a reliable and cost-effective manner. According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, an LED configured to emit purple light can be used to provide purple light and sterilization, possibly replacing an LED configured to emit white light (which may not be included in an LED tubular lighting device), and an LED configured to emit UV light can be used to provide virus-killing disinfection.

[0011] In the context of the present application, a plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence so that the distance between at least some consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence varies over at least one sequence, which may mean that the distance between a pair of consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence differs from the distance between at least another pair of consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence by at least 30%, for example at least 50%, or even at least 100%.

[0012] Furthermore, in the context of the present application, by making the distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence constant or substantially constant over at least one sequence, this may mean that the distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence varies by no more than 25%, for example no more than 15%, or even no more than 5%.

[0013] Furthermore, in the context of the present application, the distance between a first LED and a second LED (e.g., consecutive LEDs) in at least one sequence may be defined as the distance between the center points of the corresponding LEDs in the first and second LEDs, or, for example, as the distance between the side or edge of the first LED facing the second LED and the side or edge of the second LED facing the first LED.

[0014] By comprising an elongated hollow tubular member, the LED tube lighting device may have an elongated form.

[0015] The light exit surface may extend along the length of the elongate hollow tubular member.

[0016] The sequence(s) of the plurality of LEDs may for example be guided along or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the LED tube lighting device, the elongated hollow tubular member and / or the elongated carrier.

[0017] The length of the LED tube lighting device (e.g. in its longitudinal direction) can be, for example, (approximately) 0.6m, 0.9m, 1.2m or 1.5m. It should be noted that these lengths are exemplary, and the LED tube lighting device can have a length between the two disclosed example lengths, or a length less than 0.6m or more than 1.5m.

[0018] The elongated hollow tubular member may, for example, be at least partially or entirely made of quartz.

[0019] The elongated carrier may for example be flexible.The elongated carrier may for example comprise at least one printed circuit board (PCB), such as for example at least one flexible PCB.Alternatively or additionally, the elongated carrier may for example comprise at least one flexible foil.

[0020] The plurality of LEDs may, for example, include at least twenty first LEDs. The plurality of LEDs may, for example, include at least eight second LEDs.

[0021] Possibly, the plurality of LEDs may include only a plurality of first LEDs and a plurality of second LEDs. That is, the plurality of LEDs may consist of a plurality of first LEDs and a plurality of second LEDs. LEDs configured to emit light within a specific wavelength range may be excluded from the plurality of LEDs. For example, an LED configured to emit white light may not be included in the plurality of LEDs. By excluding any LED configured to emit white light from the plurality of LEDs, the perceived visibility of the purple light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device to a user / viewer may be relatively high because the white light may reduce the perceived visibility of the purple light to the user / viewer.

[0022] In the context of the present invention, violet light may be light having a wavelength in the wavelength range of 380 nm to 420 nm, and ultraviolet light may be light having a wavelength in the wavelength range of 100 nm to 380 nm.

[0023] For example, the violet light may be light with a wavelength of 405nm±5nm. Compared with violet light with other wavelengths (or wavelength ranges), violet light with a wavelength within this wavelength range may provide a particularly good sterilization effect. Light with a wavelength of 405nm±5nm is relatively safer than light with a wavelength <400nm, and is more effective in disinfection than light with a wavelength >410nm.

[0024] At least one sequence can extend between the first end and the second end. The LED closest to the first end and the LED closest to the second end may not be the second LED. Possibly, the LED closest to the first end and the LED closest to the second end may be the first LED. There may be an opening at each or any one of the first end and the second end of the elongated hollow tubular member. Each opening or any opening in the opening can provide a passage into the interior of the elongated hollow tubular member. Each opening or any opening in the opening can be closed by means of an end closure (e.g., including a cover that can be included in the LED tubular lighting device and can be arranged at a corresponding end of the first end and the second end). End closures such as covers may degrade to a certain extent due to exposure to ultraviolet light. By having the LED closest to the first end and the LED closest to the second end not be the second LED but, for example, the first LED, it is possible to reduce or even avoid degradation of any end closure (such as a cover) due to exposure to ultraviolet light.

[0025] Each second LED or any second LED in the second LEDs can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet wavelength range C. By configuring one or more second LEDs in the plurality of second LEDs to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet wavelength range C, the light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device can achieve a virus-killing effect. Ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet wavelength range C is effective in inactivating viruses.

[0026] Each or any of the second LEDs may be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range and / or the ultraviolet B wavelength range, but possibly not in the ultraviolet C wavelength range. Ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range is effective in inactivating bacteria.

[0027] At least one of the second LEDs can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range. At least one of the second LEDs can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range. At least one of the second LEDs can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range.

[0028] At least one of the second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range can be arranged in at least one sequence between at least one of the second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range and at least one of the second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range.

[0029] According to one or more example implementations, each of any second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range can be arranged between first LEDs in at least one sequence, and the first LED can be adjacent to the second LED in at least one sequence.

[0030] The LED tube lighting device may include a greater number of second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range than the number of second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range.

[0031] The LED tube lighting device may include a greater number of second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range than the number of second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range.

[0032] Each second LED or any second LED of the plurality of second LEDs may be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the far ultraviolet C wavelength range, for example between 200 nm and 230 nm.

[0033] In the case where one or more of the plurality of second LEDs are configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range, then the LEDs can be arranged in at least one sequence so that they are located at or approximately at a mid-position between the first end and the second end, or at or approximately at a central position of the elongated carrier.

[0034] In the context of the present invention, the ultraviolet A (UVA) wavelength range may be 315 nm to 380 nm, the ultraviolet B (UVB) wavelength range may be 280 nm to 315 nm, and the ultraviolet C (UVC) wavelength range may be 100 nm to 280 nm.

[0035] Furthermore, in the context of the present invention, the far UV-C wavelength range may be 200 nm to 230 nm.

[0036] The elongated hollow tubular member may, for example, be made of a material that is transmissive to light in the ultraviolet C wavelength range.

[0037] The light exit surface may have at least one diffuser. With this configuration, relatively unsafe ultraviolet light may become well distributed (e.g. in many directions relative to the LED tube lighting device). In addition, the purple light in the light emitted by the LED tube lighting device may be very visible to the user.

[0038] At least one diffuser may, for example, comprise a diffuse coating. Alternatively or additionally, at least one diffuser may comprise a surface having a selected surface roughness so that at least one scattering portion acquires a certain ability to diffuse or scatter light impinging thereon. The reflectivity of at least one diffuser may, for example, be in a range between 10% and 30%, or between 12% and 30%, or between 10% and 25%, preferably between 12% and 25%. A reflectivity in a range between 12% and 25% may be preferred from the perspective of achieving a balance between safety and disinfection performance and reliability. In order to achieve relatively high disinfection performance and safety, a relatively high reflectivity may be required. On the other hand, a relatively high reflectivity may result in a large amount of back reflection, which may result in UV light being reflected back to the LED and / or an elongated carrier such as a PCB, which may degrade over time due to exposure to UV light.

[0039] The plurality of first LEDs and the plurality of second LEDs may be arranged in at least one sequence such that a distance between consecutive second LEDs in the at least one sequence is greater than a distance between consecutive first LEDs in the sequence over at least a portion of the at least one sequence. In other words, a pitch of the plurality of second LEDs in the at least one sequence may be greater than a pitch of the plurality of first LEDs in the at least one sequence. With this configuration, a relatively high reliability (e.g., lifetime) of the LED tubular lighting device may be achieved. A relatively high intensity of UV light may not be desirable because it may negatively impact the LED tubular lighting device and / or any electrical connections in the plurality of LEDs.

[0040] A plurality of first LEDs may be arranged over the entirety of at least one sequence. A plurality of second LEDs may be arranged over only a portion of at least one sequence. For example, at least one sequence may extend between a first end and a second end, and the first LEDs may be arranged over the entirety of at least one sequence between the first end and the second end, while only a portion of at least one sequence may include a second LED. With this configuration, relatively high safety and reliability (e.g., lifespan) of the LED tubular lighting device may be achieved. The violet light in the light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device may be clearly visible to the user, while the intensity of the UV light in the light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device may be relatively low in a specific portion of the LED tubular lighting device whose components may be susceptible to UV light.

[0041] Each of the first LEDs may be configured to emit violet light having the same intensity. At least some of the second LEDs may be configured to emit ultraviolet light having different intensities. With this configuration, relatively high safety and reliability (e.g., lifespan) of the LED tubular lighting device may be achieved. The violet light in the light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device may be clearly visible to a user, while the intensity of the UV light in the light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device may be relatively low in specific portions of the LED tubular lighting device whose components may be susceptible to the UV light.

[0042] Each or any of the first LEDs may be configured to emit violet light having a constant intensity. Possibly, all of the first LEDs may be configured to emit violet light having the same intensity. For example, the constant intensity may be specified by an installer of the LED tube lighting device. That is, when installing the LED tube lighting device, each or any of the first LEDs may be arranged, for example by an installer of the LED tube lighting device, to emit violet light having a constant intensity.

[0043] At least some of the second LEDs may be configured to emit ultraviolet light with different intensities and / or different wavelengths in the ultraviolet wavelength range (e.g., from 100 nm to 380 nm), which may be specified by an installer of the LED tube lighting device when the LED tube lighting device is installed, for example. Possibly, for each or any of the second LEDs, the intensity and / or wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the second LEDs may be dynamically varied during operation, for example based on the desired intensity and / or wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED tube lighting device and based on measurements of these quantities by a sensor. The sensor may be included in the LED tube lighting device, or may be arranged externally relative to the LED tube lighting device (e.g., separate from the LED tube lighting device).

[0044] Each or any of the plurality of LEDs may be configured to emit light having a wavelength less than or equal to 420 nm. For example, each of the plurality of LEDs may be configured to emit light having a wavelength less than or equal to 420 nm and equal to or greater than 100 nm.

[0045] The elongated carrier may comprise a major surface. A plurality of LEDs may be arranged on the major surface.

[0046] The elongated carrier may include a first main surface and a second main surface arranged opposite to the first main surface. Some of the plurality of LEDs may be arranged on the first main surface, and other LEDs of the plurality of LEDs (e.g., the remaining LEDs) may be arranged on the second main surface. According to one or more example implementations, the plurality of LEDs may be arranged on the first main surface of the LED tubular lighting device, and another or other components of the LED tubular lighting device may be arranged on another main surface of the elongated carrier arranged opposite to the first main surface. Such other components (one or more) that may be included in the elongated carrier may, for example, include electrical components that may be part of one or more controllers that may be included in the LED tubular lighting device. By this configuration, any component (one or more) of the LED tubular lighting device other than the plurality of LEDs may be protected from the effects of UV light to which they may be sensitive.

[0047] As mentioned above, the LED tubular lighting device may include a controller (or several controllers). The (one or more) controllers may be configured to control the operation of each of the plurality of LEDs at least with respect to the switching on and / or switching off of the LEDs. The controller may be configured to control each of the first plurality of LEDs individually. The controller may be configured to control each of the second plurality of LEDs individually. The controller may be configured to control the operation of each of at least some of the plurality of LEDs with respect to the intensity and / or wavelength of the light emitted by the LED. For example, the controller may be configured to control the operation of each of some or all of the plurality of second LEDs with respect to the intensity and / or wavelength of the light emitted by the second LED. Possibly, for each or any of the second LEDs, the controller may be configured to control the intensity and / or wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the second LED, for example based on the desired intensity and / or wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device and based on the measurement of these quantities by the sensor. The sensor may be included in the LED tubular lighting device, or may be arranged externally with respect to the LED tubular lighting device (e.g., separate from the LED tubular lighting device). According to one or more example implementations, the controller can be configured to individually control the intensity of purple light emitted by a plurality of first LEDs and the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted by a plurality of second LEDs, wherein the ratio between the intensity of purple light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs and the intensity of ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs can be changed by the controller.

[0048] The controller (which may alternatively be referred to as a control unit, a control device, etc.) may, for example, include or be composed of any suitable central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), etc., or any combination thereof. The controller may optionally be capable of executing software instructions stored in a computer program product, for example in the form of a memory. The memory may, for example, be any combination of a read-write memory (RAM) and a read-only memory (ROM). The memory may include a persistent storage device, which may, for example, be a magnetic memory, an optical memory, a solid-state memory, or a remotely mounted memory, or any combination thereof.

[0049] The controller may, for example, include a driver circuit device for controlling power to the plurality of LEDs and / or for controlling the operation of the plurality of LEDs. The driver circuit device may, for example, include an LED driver circuit device configured to drive (or control) one or more of the plurality of LEDs. The controller may be configured to control the operation of each or any of the plurality of LEDs, for example, by sending at least one control signal or control message to the LED(s).

[0050] The surface of the elongated carrier on which the plurality of LEDs are arranged may be covered with a reflective material or a reflective element configured to reflect UV light impinging on the reflective material or the reflective element. The reflectivity of the reflective material or the reflective element in at least a portion of the UV C wavelength range may be at least 85%, preferably at least 90%. The reflective material or the reflective element may, for example, comprise microporous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which may have a reflectivity of at least 90% in at least a portion of the UV C wavelength range.

[0051] The elongated carrier may be reflective. The elongated carrier may, for example, be at least partially covered with a reflective material, for example a material reflective to light in the UV C wavelength range. For example, the material reflective to light in the UV C wavelength range may include PTFE or the like. The reflective material may, for example, be in the form of particles. For example, the elongated carrier may be at least partially covered with PTFE particles.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the second LEDs can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the near ultraviolet C wavelength range (i.e., 240 nm to 280 nm). This type of UVC light is relatively more effective in disinfection compared to other UVC wavelength ranges.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the second LEDs can be configured to emit UV light having a dominant peak wavelength in the short UV-C wavelength range (ie, <240 nm). This type of UVC light is relatively safer than other UVC wavelength ranges.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the second LEDs that can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range is arranged between the at least one first LED in at least one sequence.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the second LEDs that can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range is arranged between the at least one first LED in at least one sequence.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, at least one of the second LEDs that can be configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range is arranged between the at least one first LED in at least one sequence.

[0057] The first and second ends of the elongated hollow tubular member may include, for example, pins that may be configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED tube lighting device to a fixture or lamp.

[0058] According to a second aspect, there is provided a luminaire or lamp comprising at least one LED tube lighting device according to the first aspect.

[0059] Each LED or any LED in the LED may, for example, include or consist of an inorganic LED and / or an organic LED (OLED). Solid-state light emitters are relatively cost-effective light sources because they are generally relatively inexpensive and have relatively high optical efficiency and relatively long lifetimes. Examples of LEDs include semiconductor, organic or polymer / polymeric LEDs, optically pumped phosphor-coated LEDs, optically pumped nanocrystal LEDs, or any other similar device readily understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the term LED may encompass a bare LED die arranged in a housing, which may be referred to as an LED package. According to another example, the term LED may encompass a chip scale package (CSP) LED, which may include an LED die that is directly attached to a substrate such as a PCB rather than via a submount. For example, the term LED may encompass a laser diode, since a laser diode is a diode that emits light.

[0060] Other objects and advantages of the present invention are described below with the aid of exemplary embodiments. It should be noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of features listed in the claims. Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent when studying the attached claims and the description herein. Those skilled in the art recognize that different features of the present invention can be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a light emitting diode (LED) tube lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an LED tube lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an elongated carrier of an LED tube lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] All the figures are schematic, not necessarily to scale, and generally show only parts which are necessary in order to elucidate embodiments of the invention, wherein other parts may be omitted or merely suggested. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] The present invention will now be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments of the present invention set forth herein; rather, these embodiments of the present invention are provided by way of example so that the present disclosure conveys the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same or similar components having the same or similar functions, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0067] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a light emitting diode (LED) tubular lighting device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The LED tubular lighting device 1 can provide light, which can be referred to as device light. The LED tubular lighting device 1 comprises an elongated hollow tubular member 2 having a first end 3 and a second end 4. The elongated hollow tubular member 2 comprises a light exit surface 5 extending partially between the first end 3 and the second end 4. The elongated hollow tubular member 2 can, for example, be made at least partially or entirely of quartz. Possibly, the light exit surface 5 can include at least one diffusing portion or at least one diffuser, whose reflectivity can, for example, be in the range between 12% and 25%.

[0068] according to Figure 1The illustrated embodiment of the present invention has an opening ( Figure 1 These openings may provide access to the interior of the elongated hollow tubular member 2. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the opening is closed by means of respective end closures 6 and 7. Figure 1 It is shown in the figure as a cover. Figure 1 As shown, each of the end closures 6 and 7 (eg, covers) may include connectors such as pins that may be used to mount the LED tube lighting device 1 in a housing ( Figure 1 ) and / or providing the LED tubular lighting device 1 to a power source ( Figure 1 not shown).

[0069] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of an LED tube lighting device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 The LED tubular lighting device 1 shown in the figure is Figure 1 The LED tube lighting device shown is similar, and Figure 1 and Figure 2 The same reference numerals in the drawings represent the same or similar components or elements having the same or similar functions.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, the LED tube lighting device 1 comprises an elongated carrier 8 ( Figure 2 Only a portion of it is shown in the figure), which is arranged in a slender hollow tubular member 2.

[0071] The LED tubular lighting device 1 comprises a plurality of LEDs, each of which is configured to emit light in operation. The plurality of LEDs comprises a plurality of first LEDs and a plurality of second LEDs. Each of the first LEDs is configured to emit violet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 380nm to 420nm. Each of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 100nm to 380nm. The plurality of LEDs may, for example, comprise at least twenty first LEDs. The plurality of LEDs may, for example, comprise at least eight second LEDs.

[0072] The elongated carrier 8 may, for example, be flexible.The elongated carrier 8 may, for example, comprise at least one printed circuit board (PCB), such as, for example, at least one flexible PCB.

[0073] according to Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the elongated carrier 8 comprises a main surface 9 and a plurality of LEDs are arranged on the main surface 9 .

[0074] like Figure 2 As indicated, the plurality of LEDs are arranged in sequence on the elongated carrier 8 so that at least some of the violet light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs and at least some of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs are emitted via the light exit surface (see Figure 1 ) is emitted from the LED tube lighting device 1 as device light (ie, light provided by the LED tube lighting device 1).

[0075] As will be referred to below Figure 3 The illustrated exemplary embodiment of the present invention further describes that the plurality of LEDs are arranged in a sequence such that the distance between consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence varies over the sequence, while the distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence is constant or substantially constant over the sequence. Figure 2 It is indicated that a single LED sequence is arranged on the elongated carrier 8 , but it is to be understood that several LED sequences may be arranged on the elongated carrier 8 , for example they may run parallel to each other.

[0076] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an elongated carrier 8 of an LED tube lighting device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] The LED tube lighting device includes a plurality of LEDs, each LED being configured to emit light during operation. Figure 2 The same as the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. Figure 3 The elongated carrier 8 illustrated in FIG. 8 comprises a main surface 9 , wherein a plurality of LEDs are arranged on the main surface 9 .

[0078] The plurality of LEDs include a plurality of first LEDs 10 and a plurality of second LEDs 11, 12, 13. Each of the first LEDs 10 is configured to emit violet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 380 nm to 420 nm. Each of the second LEDs 11, 12, 13 is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 100 nm to 380 nm.

[0079] It should be noted that in addition to the main surface 9, the elongated carrier 8 may also include another main surface ( Figure 3 ), the other main surface may be arranged opposite to the main surface 8, and some of the plurality of LEDs may be arranged on the main surface 9, while other LEDs of the plurality of LEDs (eg, the remaining LEDs) may be arranged on the other main surface.

[0080] A surface of an elongated carrier 8 on which a plurality of LEDs are arranged (eg Figure 3The illustrated main surface 9) may be covered with a reflective material or a reflective element configured to reflect UV light impinging on the reflective material or the reflective element. The reflectivity of the reflective material or the reflective element in at least a portion of the UV C wavelength range may be at least 85%.

[0081] The plurality of LEDs are arranged in a sequence on the elongated carrier 8 so that at least some of the light emitted by the plurality of LEDs is emitted from the LED tubular lighting device as device light (i.e., light provided by the LED tubular lighting device) via the light exit surface. The plurality of LEDs (including the first plurality of LEDs 10 and the second plurality of LEDs 11, 12, 13) are arranged in a sequence so that the distance between consecutive LEDs in the sequence varies over the sequence, while the distance between consecutive first LEDs 10 in the sequence is constant or substantially constant over the sequence. In other words, the pitch of the plurality of LEDs in the sequence varies, while the pitch of the plurality of first LEDs 10 in the sequence is constant or substantially constant.

[0082] like Figure 3 As shown, the plurality of first LEDs 10 may be arranged over the entire sequence, while the plurality of second LEDs 11, 12, 13 may be arranged over only a portion of the sequence. Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the sequence extends between a first end and a second end of the elongated hollow tubular member. The first end of the elongated hollow tubular member may be located Figure 3 The leftmost edge of the elongated carrier 8 is shown, and the second end of the elongated hollow tubular member may be located at Figure 3 At the rightmost edge of the illustrated elongated carrier 8. In addition, according to Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the LED closest to the first end and the LED closest to the second end are not the second LEDs. Figure 3 As shown, the LED closest to the first end 3 and the LED closest to the second end 4 are both first LEDs 10 .

[0083] according to Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the second LED 11 is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range, the second LED 12 is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range, and the second LED 13 is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range.

[0084] like Figure 3As illustrated, a second LED 13 configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range can be arranged in a sequence between at least one of the second LEDs 11 configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range and at least one of the second LEDs 12 configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range.

[0085] It should be noted that in Figure 3 Only some of the first LEDs 10 are indicated by reference numerals, and in Figure 3 Only some of the second LEDs 11 are indicated by reference numerals. It is to be understood that Figure 3 The number of the first LEDs 10 and the number of the second LEDs 11, 12, 13 shown are according to examples, and the number of the first LEDs 10 and / or the number of the second LEDs 11, 12, 13 may be different from the number of the first LEDs 10 and / or the number of the second LEDs 11, 12, 13. Figure 3 In addition, the number of the second LEDs 11, the number of the second LEDs 12, and the number of the second LEDs 13 are also based on examples, and it is understood that the number of the second LEDs 11, the number of the second LEDs 12, and the number of the second LEDs 13 may be different from those shown in the figure. Figure 3 For example, more than one second LED 13 (i.e., an LED configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range) may be included in the LED tube lighting device. The plurality of LEDs included in the LED tube lighting device may, for example, include at least twenty first LEDs and at least eight second LEDs.

[0086] Further references Figure 1 The LED tubular lighting device 1 may include a controller, Figure 1 The position of the controller 15 in the LED tube lighting device 1 is exemplary and not restrictive. Figure 1 The indication controller 15 is arranged inside the elongated hollow tubular member 2 , but it may alternatively be arranged outside the elongated hollow tubular member 2 .

[0087] Further references Figure 1 and Figure 3, the controller or control device, control unit or control module 15 may be configured to control the operation of each of the plurality of LEDs at least with respect to the switching on and off of the LEDs. The controller 15 may be configured to individually control each of the first plurality of LEDs 10. The controller 15 may be configured to individually control each of the second plurality of LEDs 11, 12, 13. The controller 15 may be configured to control the operation of each of at least some of the plurality of LEDs with respect to the intensity and / or wavelength of light emitted by the LEDs. For example, the controller 15 may be configured to control the operation of each of some or all of the plurality of second LEDs 11, 12, 13 with respect to the intensity and / or wavelength of light emitted by the second LEDs 11, 12, 13. Possibly, for each or any of the second LEDs 11, 12, 13, the controller 15 may be configured to control the intensity and / or wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the second LEDs 11, 12, 13, for example based on a desired intensity and / or wavelength of the ultraviolet light emitted by the LED tubular lighting device 1 and based on a measurement of these quantities by a sensor (not shown in the drawings). According to one or more example implementations, the controller 15 may be configured to individually control the intensity of the violet light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs 10 and the intensity of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs 11, 12, 13, wherein the ratio between the intensity of the violet light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs 10 and the intensity of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs 11, 12, 13 may be changed by the controller 15.

[0088] In summary, an LED tubular lighting device is disclosed, comprising an elongated hollow tubular member and a plurality of LEDs. The plurality of LEDs comprises at least a plurality of first LEDs and a plurality of second LEDs, wherein each of the first LEDs is configured to emit violet light, wherein each of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light. The LED tubular lighting device comprises an elongated carrier arranged in the elongated hollow tubular member. The plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence on the elongated carrier, wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence such that a distance between consecutive LEDs in at least one sequence varies over at least one sequence, while a distance between consecutive first LEDs in at least one sequence is constant over at least one sequence.

[0089] Although the present invention has been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration is to be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive; the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments may be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. In the appended claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The fact that certain measures are listed in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A light emitting diode (LED) tube lighting device (1), arranged to provide device light, the LED tube lighting device comprising: an elongated hollow tubular member (2) having a first end (3) and a second end (4), the elongated hollow tubular member comprising a light exit surface (5) extending at least partially between the first end and the second end; A plurality of LEDs, each of the plurality of LEDs being configured to emit light in operation, the plurality of LEDs comprising at least a plurality of first LEDs (10) and a plurality of second LEDs (11, 12, 13), wherein each of the first LEDs is configured to emit violet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 380 nm to 420 nm, wherein each of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the range of 100 nm to 380 nm; as well as An elongated carrier (8) is arranged in the elongated hollow tubular member, wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged in at least one sequence on the elongated carrier so that at least some of the purple light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs and at least some of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs are emitted from the LED tubular lighting device as the device light via the light exit surface, wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged in the at least one sequence so that the distance between at least some consecutive LEDs in the at least one sequence varies over the at least one sequence, while the distance between consecutive first LEDs in the at least one sequence is constant over the at least one sequence.

2. The LED tubular lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sequence extends between the first end and the second end, and wherein the LED closest to the first end and the LED closest to the second end are not second LEDs, preferably wherein the LED closest to the first end and the LED closest to the second end are first LEDs.

3. The LED tubular lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein each of the second LEDs or any second LED is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet wavelength C range, or wherein each of the second LEDs or any second LED is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range or in the ultraviolet B wavelength range.

4. The LED tubular lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein at least one of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range, at least one of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range, and at least one of the second LEDs is configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range.

5. The LED tubular lighting device according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet C wavelength range is arranged in the at least one sequence between at least one of the second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet A wavelength range and at least one of the second LEDs configured to emit ultraviolet light having a dominant peak wavelength in the ultraviolet B wavelength range.

6. The LED tube lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the light exit surface comprises a diffuser.

7. The LED tube lighting device of claim 6, wherein the diffuser has a reflectivity in the range between 12% and 25%.

8. The LED tubular lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the plurality of first LEDs and the plurality of second LEDs are arranged in the at least one sequence so that, over at least a portion of the at least one sequence, a distance between consecutive second LEDs in the at least one sequence is greater than a distance between consecutive first LEDs in the sequence.

9. The LED tube lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of first LEDs are arranged on the entirety of the at least one sequence, and the plurality of second LEDs are arranged on only a portion of the at least one sequence.

10. The LED tube lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each of the first LEDs is configured to emit violet light having the same intensity, and wherein at least some of the second LEDs are configured to emit ultraviolet light having different intensities.

11. The LED tubular lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the elongated carrier comprises a main surface (9), wherein the plurality of LEDs are arranged on the main surface, and wherein the elongated carrier comprises electrical components other than the plurality of LEDs arranged on another oppositely arranged main surface.

12. The LED tubular lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a controller (15), which is configured to individually control the intensity of the purple light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs and the intensity of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs, wherein the controller is arranged to change the ratio between the intensity of the purple light emitted by the plurality of first LEDs and the intensity of the ultraviolet light emitted by the plurality of second LEDs.

13. An LED tubular lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the surface of the elongated carrier on which the plurality of LEDs are arranged is covered with a reflective material or a reflective element, the reflective material or the reflective element being configured to reflect ultraviolet light impinging on the reflective material or the reflective element and having a reflectivity of at least 85% in at least a portion of the ultraviolet C wavelength range of 100 nm to 280 nm.

14. The LED tube lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first end and the second end comprise pins configured to mechanically and electrically connect the LED tube lighting device to a lamp or a light.

15. A lamp or a light comprising at least one LED tube lighting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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