System for optical device
By using elastic members in the optical device to maintain coplanar contact between the LED and the mixed rod, the light leakage and stability problems caused by the air gap are solved, and the vibration resistance of the equipment is improved by increasing the thickness of the transparent cover of the LED.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411702887.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-11-27
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-26
- Publication Date
- 2025-05-27
AI Technical Summary
In existing optical devices, there is an air gap between the LED and the mixing rod, resulting in light leakage and unstable optical effects. At the same time, the glass cover of the LED is easily broken in vibration.
By introducing elastic members, such as springs, in the optical device, the coplanar contact between the LED and the mixing rod is maintained, the air gap is eliminated, and the transparent cover thickness of the LED is increased to resist the pressure caused by vibration.
It effectively reduces the distance change between the LED and the mixed rod, improves the stability of the optical effect, and protects the LED from performance deterioration.
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Figure CN120043074A_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 603,023, filed on November 27, 2023, entitled “SYSTEMS FOR AN OPTICAL DEVICE”, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 603,021, filed on November 27, 2023, entitled “SYSTEMS FOR A COUPLING SYSTEM”, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 603,019, filed on November 27, 2023, entitled “SYSTEMS FOR AN OPTICAL DEVICE”. The entire contents of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Technical Field
[0003] The present disclosure relates to an optical device, and more particularly to a lamp. Background Art
[0004] Optical devices, such as lamps, can be used in a variety of environments. The optical device can include a light emitting diode (LED) having one or more colors. The LED can emit to a light mixing rod (e.g., a light guide) to provide a single light color or a spectrum of multiple colors.
[0005] Conventionally, an air gap is spaced between the LED and the light mixing rod to protect the glass cover of the LED. For example, due to vibrations during the movement of the optical device, the glass of the conventional LED may shatter or otherwise degrade when in contact with the light mixing rod. Therefore, in such conventional optical devices, it may be necessary to have a space between the LED and the light mixing rod to reduce degradation of the components of the optical device. Due to tolerances (e.g., the thickness of the LED, fasteners, etc.), the space between the optical device may have inconsistent thickness, resulting in changes in the optical effect produced by the optical device. In addition, spacing the light mixing rod from the LED may reduce a portion of the light emitted from the LED and reaching the light mixing rod, because some light from the LED may leak to other locations via the air gap between the LED and the light mixing rod. Summary of the invention
[0006] The present disclosure provides support for an optical device that at least partially solves the above problems. The optical device includes a light mixing rod pressed against the surface of a light emitting diode (LED). An elastic member (such as one or more springs) can maintain coplanar contact between the LED and the light mixing rod throughout the actuation of the optical device. In this way, the air gap between the LED and the light mixing rod that exists in at least some previous examples can be eliminated. The light emitted from the LED can travel through a transparent cover (e.g., a glass cover) of the LED to reach the light mixing rod, but cannot travel through the air. Therefore, the change in the distance between the LED and the light mixing rod can be reduced, because the change is attributed to a single manufacturing tolerance of the thickness of the LED, rather than several manufacturing tolerances generated according to the thickness of both the LED and the air gap. Therefore, the optical effect produced by a separate optical device according to the present disclosure may be more similar. In addition, in the entire actuation of the optical device (such as its rotation), the elastic member firmly maintains the contact between the LED and the light mixing rod to protect the LED from performance degradation.
[0007] It should be understood that the above summary is provided to introduce in simplified form a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not meant to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is uniquely defined by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The present disclosure may be better understood by reading the following description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0009] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an optical device is shown;
[0010] Figure 2A Examples of LEDs, light mixing rods, and lenses for optical devices are shown;
[0011] Figure 2B LEDs are shown;
[0012] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A light engine of an optical device is shown, the light engine comprising an LED, a light mixing rod, and a plurality of heat exchangers;
[0013] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D A lens actuation system of an optical device is shown;
[0014] Figure 5 showing a perspective view of a portion of a housing of an optical device coupled to a lens;
[0015] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an optical device is shown;
[0016] Figure 7 The lens is shown in a first position;
[0017] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B showing the lens in a second position;
[0018] Fig. 9 A first view of the frame is shown;
[0019] Fig.10 A second view of the frame is shown;
[0020] Fig.11 A third view of the frame is shown;
[0021] Fig.12 A first view of the coupling device is shown;
[0022] Fig.13 shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling device;
[0023] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B A first position and a second position of the coupling device are shown respectively;
[0024] Fig.15 showing a coupling device positioned to engage a mount of a frame;
[0025] Fig.16 showing the coupling means engaged with the mount of the frame;
[0026] Fig.17 showing further coupling means positioned to engage with further mounts of the frame;
[0027] Fig.18 showing a plurality of coupling devices engaged with a plurality of mounts of the frame;
[0028] Fig.19 a detailed view showing the coupling means engaging with the mount of the frame;
[0029] Fig. 20 shows a plurality of fixtures, such as optical devices, interconnected via a plurality of frames;
[0030] Fig.21A and Fig. 21B A detailed view of the support is shown;
[0031] Fig. 22 showing a detailed view of the coupling device positioned to engage the mount; and
[0032] Fig.23 A coupling system comprising a plurality of frames and a plurality of coupling devices is shown.
[0033] Fig.24 and Fig.25 A flow chart of a method for implementing a lens actuation system is shown.
[0034] Figures 1 to 23 Shown approximately to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] The present disclosure provides support for an optical device. In one example, the optical device is a lamp. Figure 1 and Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of an optical device including a lens partially enclosed in a housing and a light engine including a light emitting diode (LED) element, a light mixing rod, and a plurality of heat exchangers is shown. In at least some examples, the LED element is in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Examples of LED elements, light mixing rods and lenses of the optical device are shown. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B A view of a light engine is shown.The optical arrangement may include a lens actuation system adapted to move the lens along a linear path between an upstream position where the lens is closest to the LED element and a downstream position where the lens is farthest from the LED element. FIG. 4A to FIG. 5 A lens actuation system and a portion of a housing to which the lens actuation system may be coupled are shown in various views. Figure 7 further illustrating the lens actuation system in a first position, and Fig. 8A and Figure 8B 0 further illustrates the lens actuation system in a second position, wherein the first position is further upstream than the second position. Fig.25 A flow chart of a method for operating a lens actuation system is shown. Fig.24 A flow chart of a method for operating a lens actuation system to move a lens to a target position or at a target frequency is shown.
[0036] The coupling system can be configured to connect multiple lamps (e.g., such as Figures 1 to 8B The optical device of the luminaire (luminaire) can be interlocked with each other to generate a grid or lattice structure. The coupling system can be configured to provide load support and mitigate luminaire sagging. The coupling system can include at least one frame and at least one coupling device. Each of the luminaires can be surrounded by a frame. The coupling device can physically connect vertically and / or horizontally adjacent frames to interlock the luminaires. Figures 9 to 11 An exemplary framework is shown. Fig.12 and Fig.13 An exemplary coupling device is shown in perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively. The coupling device may be in Fig.14A The first position shown or Fig. 14BFor example, the first position may be an unlocked (e.g., disengaged) position, and the second position may be a locked (e.g., engaged) position. Specifically, the coupling device may be coupled to a support of the frame (e.g., Fig.21A and Fig. 21B The support shown in the detailed view in FIG. Fig.15 and Fig. 22 The coupling means is shown positioned to engage with a mount of the frame. Fig.16 A coupling device is shown engaging with a support of a frame. Each frame may engage with more than one coupling device. Thus, Fig.17 A further coupling means is shown positioned to engage with a further mount of the frame. Fig.18 The coupling means are shown engaging with the mounts of the frame. Fig.19 A detailed view of the coupling means engaging with the mounts of the frame is shown. Fig. 20 A first example of a coupling system is shown, which comprises a plurality of luminaires interconnected via a plurality of frames and a plurality of coupling devices, such as Figures 1 to 8B optical device. Fig.23 A second example of a coupling system according to the present disclosure suspended vertically on a support is shown.
[0037] It should be understood that the specific assemblies and systems shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined herein. For discussion purposes, the drawings are collectively described. Therefore, similar elements may be collectively referred to herein with similar reference numerals and may not be reintroduced.
[0038] Now turn to Figure 1 , which shows an optical device 100 including a housing 102 . Figure 1 As well as Figures 2 to Figure 8B A set of reference axes 101 are shown, including an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, to facilitate comparison of the orientation of the views shown therein. The x-axis can be parallel to the direction of movement of the lens 150 of the optical device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the z-axis and the y-axis can be parallel to the plane in which the lens 150 lies. Additionally or alternatively, the x-axis can be parallel to the general direction in which light travels through the optical device 100. Additionally or alternatively, during operation (e.g., movement, rotation, etc.) of the optical device 100, in at least some positions of the optical device, the z-axis can be parallel to the direction of gravity.
[0039] As used herein, "upstream" may refer to a component or system, a position of a component or system, or a direction oriented relative to the negative x-direction (e.g., a direction of movement). Additionally, as used herein, "downstream" may refer to a component or system, a position of a component or system, or a direction oriented relative to the positive x-direction (e.g., a direction of movement). As an example, light may travel through the optical device 100 in a downstream direction. The upstream position of the optical device 100 may describe the positions of all movable components of the optical device 100 when the lens 150 is located at the farthest upstream. Similarly, the downstream position of the optical device 100 may describe the positions of all movable components of the optical device 100 when the lens 150 is located at the farthest downstream. The optical device 100 may transition between the upstream position and the downstream position via a lens actuation system. As further described below, the lens actuation system may operate continuously during repeated switching between the upstream position and the downstream position, rather than including discrete stops at each of the upstream position and the downstream position.
[0040] In one example, the optical device 100 is a light fixture. The housing 102 may include a front section 104 and a rear section 106. Although described as separate sections, it should be understood that the housing 102 may be manufactured as a single unitary piece or multiple pieces without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0041] The rear section 106 may surround one or more of the light emitting diode (LED) 112, the mixing bar 114, the pole housing 116, the pole cover 122, the elastic member 124, the fluid manifold 130, and the plurality of heat exchangers 132. The rear section 106 may include a plurality of louvers 134.
[0042] The LED element 112 can be in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod 114. In one example, the optical device 100 can be configured to rotate in multiple directions. The light mixing rod 114 can maintain coplanar contact with the LED element 112 throughout the range of motion of the optical device 100.
[0043] In the above example, there is a gap between the LED and the mixing rod. Figure 1In an example, the thickness of the LED element 112 (e.g., the dimension parallel to the x-axis) is increased relative to the previous example of the optical device. Specifically, the glass thickness of the glass cover of the LED element 112 can be increased. Relative to the previous example, due to this increased thickness, the LED element 112 can be configured to withstand the pressure applied to the LED element 112 by the mixing rod 114 during actuation of the optical device 100. In one example, the thickness of the surface of the LED is greater than 0.5 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of the surface of the LED is between 0.55 mm and 1.0 mm. As another example, the thickness of the surface of the LED is between 0.55 mm and 0.8 mm. In one example, the mixing rod 114 and the LED element 112 are a single integral piece. As another example, the mixing rod 114 and the LED element 112 can be separate pieces. The increased thickness of the glass cover of the LED element 112 can resist degradation when pressed against the mixing rod 114 throughout the range of motion of the optical device 100.
[0044] exist Figure 2A , LED element 112, light mixing rod 114, and lens 150 are shown. In at least some examples, lens 150 is a Fresnel lens. Additionally or alternatively, the lens can be made of a lightweight material such as plastic. Additionally or alternatively, lens 150 can be a front lens. Additionally or alternatively, lens 150 can be the only lens 150 included in optical device 100.
[0045] Figure 2A 1 and 2 show that the LED element 112 is in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod 114 , wherein the light mixing rod 114 is spaced apart from the lens 150 . Figure 2B LED element 112 is also shown enlarged to show in more detail. LED element 112 may include LED 208, which may be a single LED or a group of LEDs. In examples where LED 208 includes a group of LEDs, the LEDs may be arranged in clusters, such as Figure 2BAs shown. In one example, LED element 112 can emit red light, green light, white light and blue light. In other examples, LED element 112 can emit additional or alternative colors. For example, LED element 112 can be square, and side length 202 is about 10 mm to 20 mm. However, other sizes and shapes are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As described above, the transparent cover 204 of LED element 112 can have an increased thickness (e.g., a dimension parallel to the x-axis) compared to conventional LEDs. Transparent cover 204 can be made of glass or another transparent material. For example, the thickness of transparent cover 204 can be greater than 0.6 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of transparent cover 204 can be between 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of transparent cover 204 can be one-tenth of side length 202 or less. Transparent cover 204 can be suitable for protecting LED 208 of LED element 112.
[0046] In addition, in the optical device 100 of the present disclosure, by positioning the transparent cover 204 and the light mixing rod 114 in coplanar contact, the air gap between the LED and the light mixing rod in at least some of the aforementioned examples of the optical device can be eliminated. In this way, the distance that the light travels from the LED before reaching the light mixing rod (e.g., passing through the transparent cover 204) can be reduced compared to the example in which the light travels through glass (or other transparent materials) and air before reaching the light mixing rod 114. In addition, due to the difference in refraction of light in air and transparent materials such as glass, eliminating the air gap can allow the light beam to be more focused, and therefore a greater amount of light can be transmitted through the light mixing rod. Further, smaller tolerances may cause the distance between the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114 to vary between optical devices. For example, only the thickness of the LED can be considered, rather than the thickness tolerance of both the LED and the air gap. In this way, manufacturing differences between optical devices can be reduced, allowing different optical devices to produce more similar optical effects, and thus obtain higher performance quality.
[0047] Return to Figure 1 , the light pole housing 116 can house the mixing rod 114. The mixing rod 114 can be rod-shaped and configured to homogenize the light emitted by the LED element 112. The mixing rod 114 can include an integral diffuser at the end near the light pole cover 122. The light pole housing 116 can include one or more guiding features configured to center the mixing rod 114 relative to the LED element 112, such as described below. Figure 3C The guiding feature 316.
[0048] Additionally, a securing system may be implemented to ensure that contact between the mixing rod 114 and the LED element 112 is maintained throughout actuation of the optical device 100. For example, the mixing rod 114 may be held against the LED element 112 via a resilient member 124. In one example, the resilient member 124 includes one or more springs. The resilient member 124 may be physically coupled to the pole cover 122 and the surface on which the LED element 112 is mounted. Thus, the pole cover 122 may be pulled against the pole housing 116, and the pole housing 116 may be pulled against the LED element 112. That is, the pole housing 116 may be compressed between the LED element 112 and the pole cover 122. A transparent cover (e.g., Figure 2B The increase in thickness of the transparent cover 204 can strengthen the transparent cover to reduce the likelihood of degradation (e.g., prevent degradation) under the compressive force applied by the elastic member 124. Therefore, in addition to or in lieu of other examples of transparent cover thickness provided herein, the thickness can be selected based on the strength of the elastic member 124. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The elastic member 124 is further described.
[0049] The fluid manifold 130 can be disposed between the LED elements 112 and a surface of the housing 102. For example, the fluid manifold 130 can be in coplanar contact with a surface of the housing 102. The fluid manifold 130 can be included in a thermal management system that also includes a plurality of heat exchangers 132 fluidly coupled to the fluid manifold, a plurality of louvers 134, and a fan 136, wherein the thermal management system is configured to cool one or more components in the rear section 106. The plurality of heat exchangers 132 can be configured to radially surround the light pole housing 116, thereby making the optical device 100 more compact than other examples in which the heat exchangers are located elsewhere (e.g., between the LEDs and a surface of the housing 102 where the fluid manifold 130 is located) and do not surround any components on more than one side. Reference FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The thermal management system is further described.
[0050] The optical device 100 may include a control system 180 that includes a controller 170, one or more actuators (including the motor 140), and one or more sensors (e.g., a magnetic sensor located on the PCB 152). The controller 170 may be communicatively coupled to the actuators and sensors (such as via a wired or wireless connection). The controller 170 may include a non-volatile memory having stored therein instructions that are executable to perform the methods of the present disclosure, such as Fig.25Method 2500 for moving lens 150 to a target position or moving lens at a target frequency. Control system 180 may include means for entering user input, such as inputting a target position or a target frequency, including a button. In examples where multiple optical devices 100 are used in combination, control system 180 may control optical devices 100 simultaneously. Thus, one or more actuators and one or more sensors may belong to separate optical devices 100, and controller 170 may be communicatively coupled to more than one optical device 100.
[0051] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C FIG. 3 shows a light engine 300 including an LED element 112, a light mixing rod 114, and a plurality of heat exchangers 132 in more detail in a first view 310, a second view 320, and a third view 330, respectively. The second view 320 is a view along Figure 3A The third view 330 is a cross section of the first view 310 taken along the cutting plane AA'. The third view 330 is a cross section of the first view 310 taken along the cutting plane BB'.
[0052] The plurality of heat exchangers 132 may surround the mixing rod 114, as described above. For example, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may radially surround the pole housing 116, surrounding at least a portion of its perimeter, such as half or more. The plurality of heat exchangers 132 may include a generally planar shape perpendicular to the central axis 306 of the mixing rod 114. The pole housing 116 may be spaced apart from the plurality of heat exchangers 132. For example, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may include a cutout that forms a U-shaped opening 318 in which the pole housing 116 that accommodates the mixing rod 114 is located, without physical contact therebetween. In this manner, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may surround the bottom 342 (e.g., an area facing the negative z-direction) and the sides 344 (e.g., an area facing the y-direction) of the pole housing 116, thereby increasing heat removal compared to placing the plurality of heat exchangers 132 adjacent to the pole housing 116 without surrounding the pole housing (e.g., without being configured to receive the U-shaped opening 318 of the pole housing 116).
[0053] In alternative examples, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may surround the side 344 and top 346 (e.g., the area facing the positive z-direction) of the pole housing 116. In yet other examples, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may surround the top 346, bottom 342, and one or both sides 344 of the pole housing 116. For example, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may include through holes that are aligned so that the pole housing extends therethrough and is circumferentially surrounded by the plurality of heat exchangers 132. In any of the examples of the arrangement of the plurality of heat exchangers 132, two or more of the top 346, bottom 342, and both sides 344 of the pole housing 116 may be surrounded by the plurality of heat exchangers 132. For example, three or more of the top 346, bottom 342, and both sides 344 may be positioned adjacent to (and spaced apart from) portions of the plurality of heat exchangers 132. In this manner, thermal management capabilities may be enhanced and packaging volume may be reduced compared to systems in which the thermal management system does not radially surround the light engine 300.
[0054] The plurality of heat exchangers 132 may include one or more light leakage features 302 configured to block light emission from certain areas, such as areas adjacent to the upstream heat exchanger 314 and the downstream heat exchanger 312. The light leakage features 302 may protrude laterally from the upstream heat exchanger 314 and the downstream heat exchanger 312 and be inclined toward the central axis 306.
[0055] The plurality of heat exchangers 132 may be mounted to the housing via one or more of fasteners, welding, welding, adhesives, or a combination thereof. Figure 1 housing 102. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may be held via one or more tubes 304. The tubes 304 may be configured to conduct fluid from the fluid manifold 130 to each of the plurality of heat exchangers 132. The fluid manifold 130 and the plurality of heat exchangers 132 may be fluidly coupled via the tubes 304. The tubes 304 may extend through the plurality of heat exchangers 132 parallel to the mixing rod 114 (e.g., parallel to the central axis 306) and perpendicular to the plurality of heat exchangers 132. The plurality of heat exchangers 132 may include a protrusion 322 extending from the downstream heat exchanger 312 that at least partially circumferentially surrounds the tube 304 for stabilizing the tube. The tubes 304 may terminate at a hood 308 adjacent to the downstream heat exchanger 312. The tubes 304 may be symmetrically arranged about the light pole housing 116. Although FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C 304, but in other examples, there may be more or fewer tubes 304 for directing fluid through the heat exchanger 132. Thus, in other examples, there may be more or fewer protrusions 322.
[0056] The light pole housing 116 includes a guide feature 316 configured to center the light mixing rod 114 relative to the light pole housing 116, and therefore relative to the LED element 112. For example, the guide feature 316 may protrude inwardly from the inner wall of the light pole housing 116 toward the light mixing rod 114. The guide features 316 may be arranged symmetrically (e.g., equidistantly along the circumference). There may be three or more guide features 316. For example, there may be four guide features 316, such as Figure 3C By using the guide features 316 to center the mixing rod 114 relative to the LED elements 112 , the quality of the optical effect produced by light traveling from the LED elements 112 through the mixing rod 114 may be improved.
[0057] LED element 112 can be mounted on surface 326, for example, via a thermally conductive adhesive. Surface 326 can be the surface of a heat sink. In this way, LED element 112 can be cooled via heat transfer through the thermally conductive adhesive to surface 326 of the heat sink. LED element 112 can be fixed relative to tube 304 and fluid manifold 130, which can be fixed relative to Figure 1 and Figure 6 The housing 102 of the optical device 100 is shown to be fixed.
[0058] In addition, the LED element 112 can be in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod 114, as described above. Figure 2B The transparent cover 204 of the optical device 100 can be in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod 114. The elastic member 124 can ensure that the contact between the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114 is maintained throughout the actuation of the optical device 100. For example, the actuation of the optical device 100 can include rotation, which can exert a separation centrifugal force on the components of the optical device 100 (such as the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114).
[0059] As described above, the light mixing rod 114 can be held (e.g., spring-loaded) against the LED element 112 via the elastic member 124 throughout this actuation of the optical device 100. The elastic member 124 may include one or more springs (e.g., one or more compression springs). For example, the elastic member 124 may include two springs (e.g., two compression springs) arranged in parallel with the central axis 306. The two springs may be positioned to have one spring at each of the top 346 and the bottom 342 of the lamp post housing 116. Alternatively, the elastic member 124 may include two springs arranged in parallel with the central axis 306, with one spring on either side of the two sides 344 of the lamp post housing 116. The elastic member 124 may include two or more springs arranged symmetrically around the lamp post housing 116. As an example, the elastic member 124 may include four compression springs, one compression spring arranged at each of the top 346, the bottom 342, and the side 344. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic member 124 may include one or more elastic bands (e.g., rubber bands) having sufficient tensile resistance. Additionally or alternatively, the resilient member 124 may include any other resilient (eg, elastic) component capable of providing a tension greater than a separation force exerted on the LED element 112 and the mixing rod 114 (eg, due to their rotation in accordance with rotation of the housing 102 ).
[0060] The resilient member 124 (e.g., one or more springs, elastic bands, combinations thereof, etc.) can physically and resiliently couple the pole cover 122 at the first end of the mixing pole 114 to the fixing member 324 at the second end of the mixing pole 114, where the second end is opposite the first end. The fixing member 324 can be fixed to the surface 326 where the LED element 112 is located (e.g., via fasteners 328, welding, soldering, adhesives, etc.). In this way, the resilient member 124 can be physically coupled to the pole cover 122 and the fixing member 324 fixed to the surface 326. The fixing member 324 can be integral with the surface 326, so that the resilient member 124 is directly physically coupled to the surface 326, rather than being indirectly coupled, such as via the fixing member 324.
[0061] The elastic member 124 can extend parallel to the lamp pole housing 116 between the surface 326 and the lamp pole cover 122. For example, the elastic member 124 can extend parallel to the central axis 306 centered between the mixing light rod 114 and the lamp pole housing 116. In addition, the elastic member 124 can contact the lamp pole housing 116. For example, the lamp pole housing 116 can include a centering protrusion 352 located on both sides of the spring of the elastic member 124. In addition or alternatively, the lamp pole housing 116 can include a groove 354 that is suitable for centering the elastic member 124 relative to the lamp pole housing. For example, the contour of the groove 354 can be determined according to the shape of the elastic member 124. In one example, the groove 354 can be semicircular to partially circumferentially surround the compression spring. The groove 354 and / or the centering protrusion 352 can extend axially along the length of the lamp pole housing 116 on the top 346, the bottom 342 and / or the side 344 according to the configuration of the elastic member 124. The groove 354 and / or the centering protrusion 352 may contact and support the elastic member 124 .
[0062] The pole housing 116 may include a tab 332 that is bent radially outward toward the fixing member 324. In this way, the pole housing 116 can be kept spaced apart from the LED element 112 to protect the translucent cover of the LED element 112 from mechanical degradation. In addition, if the pole housing 116 is displaced toward the pole cover 122, in addition to the pole housing 116 hitting the pole cover 122, the pole housing 116 can be stopped from moving before contacting the LED element 112 by the tab 332 pressing against the fixing member 324. Alternatively, the pole housing 116 can be integral with the fixing member 324. In this way, the pole housing 116 can be directly fixed to the surface 326 (e.g., via fasteners 328, welding, soldering, adhesives, etc.) so that the pole housing 116 is spaced apart from the LED element 112 and centered around the LED element. Thus, the resilient member 124 can be physically coupled to the pole cover 122 at a first end, directly or indirectly (eg, via the securing member 324 ), and physically coupled to the surface 326 upon which the LED element 112 is mounted, at a second end.
[0063] The lamp bar cover 122 may be in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod 114. The light mixing rod 114 may include a widened portion 334 at an end near the light mixing rod cover 122, the diameter of the widened portion being greater than the diameter of the rest of the light mixing rod 114. The widened portion 334 may be interposed between the lamp bar cover 122 and the lamp bar housing 116. The lamp bar housing 116 may include a circumferential recess to accommodate the widened portion 334. Therefore, the light mixing rod 114 may be interposed and compressed between the lamp bar cover 122 and the LED element 112 via the elastic member 124. By elastically coupling the pole cover 122 to the surface 326 (e.g., via the elastic member 124 and the fixing member 324), the pole cover 122 can be pulled toward the LED element 112, pressing against the mixing rod 114 and / or the pole housing 116, so that the mixing rod 114 is spring-loaded and can withstand the forces experienced during movement (e.g., rotation) of the light engine 300 without separating the LED element 112 and the mixing rod 114.
[0064] For example, return to Figure 1 , the elastic member 124 can provide a force that maintains contact between the LED element 112 and the mixing rod 114 throughout the movement of the optical device 100. For example, the optical device 100 can rotate, swivel, pivot, or perform other movements, wherein the elastic member 124 is configured to maintain coplanar contact between the LED element 112 and the mixing rod 114 through these movements. Therefore, the stretch resistance of the elastic member 124 (e.g., the spring constant in the example where the elastic member 124 includes a spring) can be selected based on the maximum force experienced during the movement of the optical device 100. For example, the stretch resistance of the elastic member may be greater than the maximum separation force experienced during the movement of the optical device 100 (e.g., rotation, swivel, pivot, etc.).
[0065] In this way, omitting the air gap between the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114 can reduce tolerance considerations (e.g., tolerances of fasteners and components to ensure sufficient air gap thickness), and thus reduce variations in the distance between the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114. For example, the only variation in the distance between the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114 between optical devices 100 may be attributed to variations in the thickness of the transparent cover of the LED element 112 (e.g., within manufacturing tolerances of the LED thickness). Due to the presence of the elastic member 124, minor variations in the thickness of the LED element 112 (e.g., within manufacturing tolerances) may not affect the security of the connection between the LED element 112 and the light mixing rod 114. Furthermore, by providing a tension in the connection between the LED element 112 and the mixing rod 114 that exceeds the force applied to the light engine 300 during actuation of the optical device 100, the contact between the LED element 112 and the mixing rod 114 can be maintained more securely than by operating a non-elastic fastener (e.g., bolts, welding, adhesives, etc.) to connect the mixing rod 114 to the LED element 112 in coplanar contact.
[0066] The optical device 100 also includes a cone 126 disposed about the light pole cover 122. The cone 126 can extend from the rear section 106 into the front section 104 of the housing 102. The diameter of the cone 126 can increase in a downstream direction (e.g., a positive x-direction) such that the largest diameter of the cone 126 is disposed in the front section 104 and the smallest diameter of the cone 126 is disposed toward the rear section 106.
[0067] The cone 126 can block light from entering the optical device 100 and contacting the back of the cone 126 (e.g., Figure 1 126, one or more of a printed circuit board (PCB) 152, an electronic device, or other components of the optical device 100, located in an orientation in the cone 126 and located to the left of the cone 126. The cone 126 can also be configured to block light (e.g., light emitted from the sun or other external source) from being focused by the lens 150 onto components behind the cone 126 (including the light engine 300). Additionally or alternatively, the cone 126 can be configured as a heat sink and thus provide a certain amount of thermal management for the optical device 100. The cone 126 can also be configured to support a plurality of backlight LEDs 127. For example, the cone 126 can include an annular section 154 that protrudes from a wide end (e.g., a downstream end) of the cone 126 and faces parallel to the lens 150. The plurality of backlight LEDs 127 can be distributed in a circular pattern along the circumference of the cone 126. Specifically, the plurality of backlight LEDs 127 can be arranged along the annular section 154. Thus, the backlight LED 127 may be located between the light mixing rod 114 and the movable lens 150. A plurality of backlight LEDs 127 may be configured to produce a lighting effect.
[0068] The front section 104 may also surround a motor 140, a connecting link 142, and an articulated arm including a first arm 144 and a second arm 146. The second arm 146 may be coupled to a lens frame 148 that houses a lens 150. The motor 140, the connecting link 142, the first arm 144, the second arm 146, the lens frame 148, and the lens 150 may be included in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D The lens actuation system 400 is shown. The lens actuation system 400 can make the position of the lens 150 in the housing 102 adjustable.
[0069] The connecting link 142 can be positioned opposite the motor 140 across the cone 126. For example, the connecting link 142 can be located above the cone 126, while the motor 140 can be located below the cone 126. The connecting link 142 can be configured to actuate in a circular motion in the space between the cone 126 and the rear section 106 of the housing 102. In one example, the connecting link 142 can include a curved shape with a profile that matches the cone 126. For example, the connecting link 142 can be bent around the cone 126 and spaced apart from the cone. Therefore, the connecting link 142 can move in the space between the PCB 152 and the cone 126 (e.g., from an upstream position to a downstream position), or anywhere therebetween without contacting the cone 126.
[0070] The articulated arm can translate movement of the connecting link 142 into movement of the lens frame 148. For example, the lens frame 148 and the lens 150 can move linearly between an upstream position and a downstream position depending on the position of the connecting link 142. The connecting link 142, and therefore the lens frame 148 and the lens 150, can be driven by the motor 140, as further described below.
[0071] Moving the lens 150 linearly with respect to the housing 102 and the light engine 300 can adjust the optical effect produced by the optical device 100. For example, the distance between the LED element 112 and the lens 150 can be related to the beam width of the light beam that exits the optical device 100 via the lens 150. It may be desirable to quickly transition between a narrow beam and a wide beam. The lens actuation system 400 can move the lens 150 faster and more efficiently than the previous systems, as further described below.
[0072] Steering Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 4C and Figure 4D, the lens actuation system 400 is shown in perspective view 410, side view 420, side cross-sectional view 430, and top cross-sectional view 440, respectively. Some components are shown semi-transparently in perspective view 410 and side view 420 so as not to obstruct visibility of components behind them. Side cross-sectional view 430 can be a section taken along cutting plane CC' parallel to the xz plane in perspective view 410. Top cross-sectional view 440 can be a section taken along cutting plane DD' parallel to the xy plane in perspective view 410. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D Also shown are cone 126 and a portion of housing 102. The position of lens 150 (eg, relative to cone 126) can be adjusted via lens actuation system 400.
[0073] The motor 140 can be coupled to the flywheel 406 via a shaft 408. The shaft 408 can extend from one side of the cone 126 to the other side so that the flywheel 406 and the motor 140 are opposite each other across the cone 126. In this way, the packaging volume of the optical device 100 can be reduced compared to positioning the motor 140 and the flywheel 406 on the same side of the cone 126. The motor 140 can rotate the flywheel 406 via the shaft 408, which in turn can rotate the flywheel 406 via a rod (e.g., Figures 7 to 8B The connecting link 142 can be connected to the housing at a connecting link joint 416 (e.g., a pivot joint) so that the connecting link 142 can rotate but cannot translate relative to the housing 102.
[0074] Actuating the connecting link 142 may include rotating the connecting link 142 about a first rotation axis 414 extending through a connecting link joint 416. As described above, the connecting link 142 may bend according to the curvature of the cone 126 such that the connecting link 142 remains spaced apart from the cone 126 throughout actuation of the connecting link 142. In this manner, the packaging volume of the optical device 100 may be reduced (e.g., compared to spacing a straight connecting link apart from the cone 126) while preventing the cone 126 from interfering with the function of the lens actuation system 400, including rotation of the connecting link 142.
[0075] The first arm 144 may be an arm in a first arm pair 444. The first arm pair 444 is directly coupled to the connecting link 142 and the second arm pair 446 including the second arm 146. The first arm pair 444 may extend between the connecting link 142 and the second arm pair 446. Specifically, a first end of the first arm pair 444 may be coupled to the connecting link 142 at a connecting link joint 416 such that the connecting link 142 connects the first arm pair 444 in arms that are diametrically opposed to each other across the cone 126. A second end of the first arm pair 444 may be coupled to a first end of the second arm pair 446 at an arm joint 418 (e.g., a pivot joint), wherein the second end of the first arm pair 444 is opposed to the first end of the first arm pair 444 in a lengthwise direction. Pivot joints, such as the connecting link joint 416 and the arm joint 418, may allow components coupled at the joints to achieve rotational independence. In this way, a variable angle (e.g., Figures 7 to 8B The first arm pair 444 may be configured to have a second arm angle 724, wherein the variable angle may vary according to the rotation of the flywheel 406. The first arm pair 444 may be rotationally coupled to the connecting link 142 such that when the connecting link rotates, the first arm pair 444 may also rotate about the first rotation axis 414 at the same rotation speed. In some examples, the first arm pair 444 may be integral with the connecting link 142.
[0076] The second arm pair 446 is directly coupled to the lens frame 148 at the frame joint 422. Specifically, the second end of the second arm pair 446 is coupled to the lens frame 148 at the frame joint 422, wherein the second end is opposite in length to the first end of the second arm pair 446 coupled to the first arm pair 444. The second arm pair 446 may extend between the first arm pair 444 and the lens frame 148.
[0077] The movement of the connecting link 142 can be symmetrically applied to each of the first arm pair 444, the second arm pair 446, and the lens frame 148. In this way, the connecting link 142 can distribute torque approximately equally between the arms of the first arm pair 444, thereby applying approximately equal forces to both sides of the lens frame 148. The rotational movement of the flywheel 406 can be converted into a linear oscillating movement of the lens frame 148 via the connecting link 142 and the articulated arms (including the first arm pair 444 and the second arm pair 446). In this way, each of the flywheel 406, the connecting link 142, the rod 702, the plurality of articulated arms, the lens frame 148, and the lens 150 can be configured to move according to the operation of the motor 140.
[0078] In order to repeatedly transition back and forth between the upstream position and the downstream position, it may not be necessary to pause the output of the motor 140, thereby eliminating the deceleration of the motor 140 and the flywheel 406 near the upstream position and the downstream position and allowing for faster cycling. As used herein, a cycle may include the movement of the lens starting from a starting position, passing through all other positions between the upstream position and the downstream position (including the upstream position and the downstream position), and returning to the starting position. Therefore, a cycle can be performed by a single complete continuous rotation (e.g., 360 degrees) of the flywheel 406 in a single rotational direction. This rotation of the flywheel 406 can perform one or more continuous cycles faster than a system that needs to stop and reverse at each of the upstream position and the downstream position (such as a belt drive or worm drive system).
[0079] The housing 102 may include a number of features for coupling to the lens actuation system 400. The number of features may include threaded inserts / molds, tracks, bearings, tabs, receiving holes, and interlocking shapes for retaining the lens 150 and maintaining the linearity of its motion.
[0080] For example, the housing 102 may include a pair of rails 402. The pair of rails 402 may be diametrically opposed to each other. In some examples, the pair of rails 402 may be located at the connecting rod 422. For example, Figures 4A to 4D As shown, the frame joints 422 can be diametrically opposite to each other along the y-axis, and the tracks 402 can also be diametrically opposite to each other along the y-axis. In other examples, the pair of tracks 402 can be offset from the connecting link 422. For example, the frame joints 422 can be diametrically opposite to each other along the y-axis as shown, and the tracks 402 can be diametrically opposite to each other along the z-axis. In some examples, additional tracks can be present. The track pair 402 can be located downstream relative to the cone 126 and the connecting link joint 416.
[0081] The pair of rails 402 can each be configured to engage with a retaining arm 404 of the lens actuation system 400. In one example, the retaining arm 404 is a spring clip configured to retain the lens actuation system 400 within the rails 402. In one example, the retaining arm 404 can be directly coupled to the lens frame 148. For example, Figure 4D As shown, the retaining arm 404 can fit into a complementary groove formed in the lens frame 148. In some examples, the second arm 146 can be in coplanar contact with the retaining arm 404. The retaining arm 404 can be flexible and configured to press against the surface of a corresponding track in the pair of tracks 402. In one example, the number of tracks 402 is equal to the number of retaining arms 404. In such an example, there may be two or more tracks 402, and accordingly, there may be two or more retaining arms 404.
[0082] The track 402 may include various cutouts, protrusions, and indentations that complement the features of the retaining arm 404 so that when the lens 150 is actuated from the upstream position to the downstream position or vice versa, the retaining arm 404 may slide within the corresponding track 402 without disengaging from the track 402. As described above, the lens 150 is relatively closer to the cone 126 in the upstream position than in the downstream position.
[0083] Each retaining arm 404 can move relative to the housing 102 along a corresponding first axis 432 and a second axis 434, wherein the second axis 434 is perpendicular to the first axis 432. There can be a first axis 432 for each retaining arm 404, wherein the first axes are parallel to each other. The first axis 432 can be parallel to the movement of the lens frame 148. The second axis 434 can be perpendicular to the movement of the lens frame 148. The movement of the retaining arm 404 along the first axis 432 can include the sliding of the retaining arm against the track 402. The movement of the retaining arm 404 along the second axis 434 can include an increase or decrease in the tension of the retaining arm 404.
[0084] In one example, the portion of the housing 102 that includes the track may be Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 6 The housing 102 is shown as a separate piece from the rest of the housing 102. In such an example, the portion of the housing 102 including the track 402 can be physically coupled to the rest of the housing 102 via fasteners, welding, adhesives, and / or welding. Additionally or alternatively, the housing 102 can be a single, unitary piece.
[0085] In addition to or in lieu of the rails 402 and complementary retaining arms 404, the lens actuation system 400 may also include other means for guiding the movement of the lens frame 148 and, thus, the linear movement of the lens 150 relative to the housing 102. For example, the lens frame 148 may include recesses such as, for example, Figures 7 to 8B The recess 704 may include a feature that is complementary to a feature of the housing 102 (such as a protrusion adapted to be received by the recess).
[0086] The lens actuation system 400 can move the lens 150 from Figure 7 The first position 700 shown is actuated to Fig. 8A and Figure 8B800, or vice versa. In one example, the first position 700 is a relatively upstream position and the second position 800 is a relatively downstream position. For example, the first distance 708 between the cone 126 and the lens frame 148 in the first position 700 can be shorter than the second distance 802 between the cone 126 and the lens frame 148 in the second position 800. That is, the distance between the cone 126 and the lens frame 148 can be adjusted based on the rotation of the flywheel 406. Additionally or alternatively, the first position 700 can be a relatively wide beam position and the second position 800 can be a relatively narrow beam position.
[0087] The first end of the rod 702 can be coupled to the flywheel 406 at a flywheel joint 714. The flywheel joint 714 can be off-center with respect to the center of the flywheel 406. In this way, the first end of the rod 702 can move along a circular path according to the rotation of the flywheel 406. The second end of the rod 702 opposite the first end can be physically coupled to a bracket 706 of the connecting link 142. The bracket 706 can protrude from the connecting link 142 in a direction oriented away from the lens 150. In one example, the bracket 706 is off-center with respect to the center of the connecting link 142. The bracket 706 can be spaced apart from the connecting link joint 416. The bracket 706 can be vertically located above the flywheel 406. The bracket 706 and the flywheel 406 can be fixed to the rod 702 so that they are independent in rotation and thus allow them to pivot relative to each other.
[0088] The flywheel 406 can rotate about a second rotational axis 712 extending centrally through the shaft 408 in either direction (e.g., relative to Figure 7 The flywheel 406 can rotate 360 degrees, so that the flywheel 406 continuously rotates (for example, 360 degrees) around the second rotation axis 712. When the flywheel 406 rotates around the second rotation axis 712, the bracket 706 can be forced to move up and down via the rod 702, thereby causing the connecting link 142 to rotate around the first rotation axis 414.
[0089] Specifically, when the bracket 706 is pushed upward by the rotation of the flywheel 406 about the second rotation axis 712, the second arm pair 446 can pull the lens frame 148 closer to the cone 126 that is stationary relative to the housing 102. The lens frame 148 can slide along the track 402 that can be perpendicular to the first rotation axis 414 and / or the second rotation axis 712. For example, since the first arm pair 444 is rotationally coupled or integral with the connecting link 142, the first arm angle 722 between the first arm 144 and the connecting link 142 can remain constant. When the bracket 706 is pushed upward and the lens 150 moves closer to the flywheel 406, the motor 140, and the cone 126, the second arm angle 724 between the first arm 144 and the second arm 146 can decrease. In addition, when the lens 150 moves closer to the flywheel 406, the motor 140, and the cone 126, the distance 726 between the rod 702 and the arm joint 418 can decrease.
[0090] Conversely, when the bracket 706 is pulled downward by the rotation of the flywheel 406, the second arm pair 446 can push the lens frame 148 further linearly away from the cone 126 along the track 402 as described above. For example, the first arm angle 722 can remain constant. The second arm angle 724 and the distance 726 can increase. For example, comparing the first position 700 to the second position 800, the first arm angle 722 can be the same. The second arm angle 724 can be greater in the second position 800 than in the first position 700. Therefore, the second arm angle 724 can change according to the rotation of the flywheel 406. The distance 726 can be greater in the second position 800 than in the first position 700.
[0091] Rotating the flywheel 406 through one full revolution may cause the lens 150 to move through each position between and including an upstream position (e.g., closest to the cone 126) and a downstream position (e.g., farthest from the cone 126) in a complete cycle. The upstream position may include the angular position of the flywheel 406 where the flywheel joint 714 is closest to the bracket 706 (e.g., in the topmost position), while the downstream position may include the angular position of the flywheel 406 where the flywheel joint 714 is farthest from the bracket 706 (e.g., in the bottommost position).
[0092] Thus, the angular position of the flywheel 406 can be directly related to the linear position of the lens 150. A single sensor (e.g., a magnetic sensor) can be used to monitor the current state of the lens actuation system 400 by detecting detectable elements 412 located along the circumference of the flywheel 406. The detectable elements 412 can alternatively be located at other locations along the flywheel 406 other than the center of the flywheel 406. For example, the detectable element 412 can be a magnet that can be located at a position other than the center of the flywheel 406. Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 150. The angular position of the flywheel 406 can be determined by a magnetic sensor on and electrically connected to the PCB 152 shown. The magnetic sensor can be fixed relative to the housing 102. The flywheel 406 cannot move except for rotating about the housing 102. Therefore, the distance between the detectable element 412 (e.g., a magnet) and the sensor (e.g., a magnetic sensor) can be used to find the angular position of the flywheel 406. The distance between the detectable element 412 and the sensor can be used to measure the position of the flywheel 406, and thus determine the position of the lens 150. In addition, the rate of change of the distance between the detectable element 412 and the sensor can be used to determine the angular velocity of the flywheel 406, and accordingly determine the oscillation frequency of the lens 150.
[0093] In this manner, each of the shaft 408, the flywheel 406, the connecting link 142, the rod 702, the plurality of articulated arms (e.g., the first arm pair 444 and the second arm pair 446), the lens frame 148, and the lens 150 are configured to move based on the operation of the motor 140. For example, because the operation of the motor 140 determines the angular position and velocity of the flywheel 406 via the shaft 408, the operation of the motor 140 may also determine the position and velocity of the connecting link 142, the rod 702, the plurality of articulated arms, the lens frame 148, and the lens 150.
[0094] The operation of the motor 140 can be controlled to rotate the flywheel 406 and accordingly move the lens 150 in any mode. In some examples, the motor 140 rotates the flywheel 406 in one rotational direction. In other examples, the flywheel 406 changes the rotational direction according to the desired optical effect (e.g., beam width mode). For example, the flywheel 406 can repeatedly rotate a partial cycle and then switch to another direction to bypass one or both of the end positions of the lens 150, thereby reducing the contrast between the wide beam and the narrow beam. In some examples, the motor 140 can pause the rotation of the flywheel 406 when the beam width change is no longer required. In other examples, the rotation of the flywheel 406 can be continuous throughout the operation of the optical device 100. The continuous rotation of the flywheel 406 achieved via the continuous operation of the motor 140 can be faster and more efficient than other systems (such as belt drive or worm drive systems) in which the continuous cycle of the lens requires stopping and reversing the motor. In addition or alternatively, the motor 140 can be operated within a certain speed range so that the lens 150 oscillates within a certain frequency range (e.g., up to 3 Hz). Additionally or alternatively, the motor 140 may be operated at a single speed such that the lens 150 oscillates at a constant frequency throughout actuation of the lens 150 .
[0095] The relative dimensions of the lens actuation system 400 may be adjusted to adapt the lens actuation system 400 to the application. For example, if a larger span between the upstream and downstream locations of the lens 150 is desired, the diameter of the flywheel 406 may be increased and the flywheel joint 714 may be moved radially outward away from the second rotation axis 712. Conversely, if a smaller difference between the upstream and downstream locations of the lens 150 is desired, the diameter of the flywheel 406 may be decreased and / or the flywheel joint 714 may be moved radially inward closer to the second rotation axis 712. Additionally or alternatively, the relative lengths of the articulated arms may be adjusted.
[0096] Steering Figure 5 and Figure 6 , respectively, show a first view 500 and a second view 600 of the optical device 100. The lens 150 and some parts of the housing 102 are omitted in the first view 500 to allow visibility of the components housed therein. The second view 600 is a cross-sectional view.
[0097] A portion 502 of the housing 102 can extend beyond the track 402. In this manner, the track 402 can be spaced a distance 504 from a downstream end 512 of the optical device 100. The downstream location of the lens 150 can be at least the distance 504 from the downstream end 512. In some examples, such as examples where the housing 102 is a single, unitary piece, the portion 502 can be integral with the portion that includes the track 402. Alternatively, the portion 502 can be a piece that is separate from the portion that includes the track 402 and coupled thereto via fasteners, adhesives, welding, combinations thereof, and the like.
[0098] The lens actuation system 400 can adjust the distance 602 between the LED element 112 and the lens 150. The distance 602 can be perpendicular to the lens 150. The track 402 can be parallel to the distance 602, so that the lens 150 moves linearly along the track to increase or decrease the distance 602 when actuated by the lens actuation system 400. Both sides of the track 402 can be adjacent to the protrusion 506, extending parallel to the movement of the lens frame 148 and the lens 150 and parallel to the distance 602. The protrusion 506 can protrude radially inward from the housing 102. The protrusion 506 can engage with the notch 704 in the lens frame 148. For example, the notch 704 can receive the protrusion 506. When the lens 150 moves via the lens actuation system 400 as described above, the notch 704 can slide along the protrusion 506 to maintain the linearity of the movement of the lens 150 in a direction parallel to the distance 602. In some examples, additional protrusions and complementary recesses may be arranged circumferentially around the housing 102 and the lens frame 148, respectively. Additionally or alternatively, a retaining arm (such as FIG. 4A to FIG. 8BThe retaining arm 404 in the lens frame 148 can slide along the surface 508 between the protrusions 506 of the track 402. In this way, the track 402 can be slidably engaged with the lens frame 148 and the retaining arm that can be physically connected to the lens frame 148.
[0099] An insulating layer 510 may be interposed between the backlight LEDs 127 and the cone 126. The insulating layer 510 may protrude radially inward from the cone 126 to capture stray light and ensure that the light is directed toward the lens 150. An extension of the cone 126 may protrude radially outward toward the housing 102. The extension may be physically coupled to the housing 102, for example, via a fastener 516 extending through the housing 102 and the cone 126, or other fastening means such as welding.
[0100] As mentioned above, the sensor can detect FIG. 4A to FIG. 8B The state of the flywheel 406 of the embodiment of the present invention. For example, the plurality of electrical components 514 can be electrically coupled to the PCB 152 and can include a flywheel sensor. The PCB 152 can be annular. The PCB can be interposed between the light engine 300 and the cone 126. Additionally or alternatively, the PCB 152 can be interposed between the light engine 300 and the lens actuation system 400. The cone 126 and / or the lamp post cover 122 can extend through the center of the PCB 152. For example, the narrowest end of the cone 126 can be circumferentially surrounded by the PCB 152. The sensor of the plurality of electrical components 514 electrically coupled to the PCB 152 can be located on an area of the PCB 152 near the flywheel 406. For example, the sensor can be closer to the flywheel 406 than the motor 140 or the connecting link 142. Additionally, the PCB 152 can be interposed between the sensor and the light engine 300. Additionally or alternatively, the PCB 152 can be located between the LED element 112 and the lens actuation system 400.
[0101] By utilizing the continuous rotational motion of the flywheel to drive the back-and-forth linear motion of the lens 150, a sensor may be the only sensor required to track the lens 150. Thus, the lens actuation system 400 may be simpler than other systems that require two or more sensors (e.g., one sensor at each of the end positions (e.g., the upstream position and the downstream position)) to track the lens. Additionally, the size of the flywheel may be directly related to the distance between the upstream position and the downstream position of the lens 150. In this way, the range of motion of the lens 150 may be inherent to the geometry of the lens actuation system design, rather than being affected by the operation of the motor 140 as in the aforementioned systems where the transmission stops and reverses at each end position.
[0102] Steering Fig.25 , showing a method for operating a lens actuation system having a connecting rod (such as including Figure 1 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 8BFlowchart of method 2500 of lens actuation system 400 having connecting rod 142.
[0103] Method 2500 begins at 2502, where a LED (such as Figures 1 to 3C and Figure 6 The LED element 112 in the embodiment generates output light. The output light may include one or more colors (wavelengths of light). The output light may be generated, for example, via Figures 1 to 3C and Figure 6 The light mixing rod 114 is homogenized.
[0104] Method 2500 proceeds to 2504, where a lens receiving the output light is actuated via a lens actuation system having a connecting rod by causing a motor (e.g., Figure 1 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 8B The motor 140) rotates in a single direction to move linearly back and forth. The motor may not pause or rotate in the opposite direction (e.g., rotate in a rotation direction opposite to the single direction) to reverse the linear lens movement. The linear movement of the lens can be an oscillating motion. The lens actuation system can also include a flywheel (e.g., FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D and Figures 7 to 8B The flywheel 406 in the embodiment of the present invention is driven by a motor and connected to the flywheel by a rod (e.g., Figures 7 to 8B The lens actuation system may also include an articulated arm (e.g., FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D The first arm pair 444 and the second arm pair 446 of the embodiment of the present invention are connected to each other by the articulated arms, which connect the connecting link to the frame (e.g., Figure 1 and FIG. 4A to FIG. 8B of the framework 148).
[0105] Method 2500 proceeds to 2506, where the movement or rotation is sensed via a sensor. The sensing may include the sensor detecting a detectable element (e.g., Figure 4D , Figure 7 and Fig. 8A A detectable element 412) such as a magnet. For example, a magnetic sensor can detect the position of a magnet. The magnet can be located outside the center of a rotating component of a lens actuation system (such as a flywheel) to sense its rotation. Alternatively, the magnet can be located on a frame that houses the lens to sense its linear movement. The movement of the magnet or other detectable element relative to the sensor can be used to track the rotation (e.g., motor output) or movement of the lens.
[0106] Method 2500 may include, for example, performing the following Fig.24 Method 2400 at 2508 moves the lens to a target position or moves the lens at a target frequency.
[0107] The method 2500 ends. The method 2500 can be performed continuously throughout the operation of the lens actuation system. The steps of the method 2500 can occur simultaneously and / or in a different order than that provided in the method 2500.
[0108] Steering Fig.24 , a flow chart of a method 2400 for operating a lens actuation system (such as lens actuation system 400) is shown, wherein a flywheel (e.g., FIG. 4A to FIG. 8B The rotational motion of the flywheel 406) is converted into a lens (e.g., Figures 1 to 8B The method 2400 can be used as Figure 5 Method 2400 may be performed by a control system (such as Figure 1 The control system 180 in the controller or control system (such as Figure 1 The controller 170 in the controller is used to execute instructions in the non-volatile memory.
[0109] Method 2400 begins at 2402, where a target position or frequency of a lens is determined. The target position can be an optical device (e.g., Figures 1 to 8B The target frequency may be a target oscillation frequency at which the lens oscillates linearly between the upstream position and the downstream position. For example, the target position or target frequency may be part of a preprogrammed routine stored in a non-volatile memory of the controller, the preprogrammed routine including a series of target positions and / or target frequencies. As another example, the target position or target frequency may be manually input by a user.
[0110] Method 2400 proceeds to 2404, where the motor (e.g., Figure 1 , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D and Figures 7 to 8B The lens can be moved linearly by rotating the flywheel via a motor 140. For example, rotating the flywheel via a motor can drive the movement of a connecting link and an articulated arm that are physically connected to a frame that houses the lens. The motor can operate continuously in a single rotational direction so that the lens moves back and forth along a linear path. In this way, it may not be necessary to slow down and stop the motor to reverse the linear direction of the lens movement. The flywheel can rotate 360 degrees for each cycle of the lens. The direction of rotation of the motor and flywheel can be selected based on a kinematically favorable direction. Additionally or alternatively, the direction of rotation can be selected based on a comparison of the current position with a target position. For example, rotation may occur in a direction that can reach the target position faster. The controller can control the operation of the motor, such as the output speed of the motor.
[0111] Method 2400 proceeds to 2406, where a measured position or frequency of the flywheel is measured. For example, the measured frequency of the flywheel can be the number of full revolutions per unit time (e.g., per second). The measured position of the flywheel can be an angular position. The measured position and frequency can be measured by a sensor (e.g., a magnetic sensor) detecting, for example, a detectable element (e.g., a magnet) located outside the center of the flywheel along the circumference of the flywheel. The sensor can be part of a control system and communicatively coupled to a controller. In some examples, both position and frequency are measured. Other indicators, such as the direction of rotation of the flywheel, can also be measured.
[0112] Method 2400 proceeds to 2408, where a current position or frequency of the lens is determined. For example, if there is a target position, the current position of the lens can be determined from the target position. For example, if there is a target frequency, the current frequency of the lens can be determined from the target frequency. The current frequency of the lens may be approximately equal to the measured frequency of the flywheel. The linear position of the lens may directly correspond to the angular position of the flywheel. The orientation of the lens velocity may correspond to the rotational direction of the flywheel.
[0113] The method 2400 proceeds to 24010, where it is determined whether the current position or the current frequency of the lens matches the target position or the target frequency, respectively. For example, the controller may compare the target frequency with the current frequency determined at 2408. Alternatively, the controller may compare the target position with the current position determined at 2408. If the corresponding target value and the current value are within a threshold difference, then it may be determined that they match (e.g., meet the target condition). Alternatively, if the corresponding target value and the current value are outside the threshold difference, then it may be determined that they do not match (e.g., do not meet the target condition).
[0114] If the current position does not match the target position or the current frequency does not match the target frequency (No at 2410), method 2400 proceeds to 2412, where the current position or current frequency of the lens is adjusted. For example, the current position or current frequency of the flywheel can be adjusted via actuation of a motor to adjust the position or frequency of the lens.
[0115] If the current position matches the target position or the current frequency matches the target frequency (yes at 2410), method 2400 proceeds to 2414, where the lens is stopped at the target position or continues to move at the current frequency, respectively. For example, if the target position is determined at 2402 and the target position matches the current position of the flywheel, the movement of the lens can be stopped because the target position has been reached. Stopping the movement of the lens can include stopping the output of the motor and thus stopping the rotation of the flywheel. Alternatively, if the target frequency is determined at 2402 and the target frequency matches the current frequency at 2410, the target is reached and operation can therefore continue under the current conditions. Continuing to operate at the current frequency can include maintaining the current output of the motor. The motor can generate a continuous output in a single rotational direction so as to cause the lens to oscillate at the rotational frequency.
[0116] The method 2400 ends after 2414. By executing the method 2400, a target frequency or a target position of the lens is achieved. The method 2400 can be iteratively repeated throughout the operation of the optical device 100 to produce a desired optical effect.
[0117] As described above, the coupling system according to the present disclosure can fix multiple optical devices 100 and / or other lamps in a vertical array, a horizontal array, or a grid or mesh form. The coupling system of the present disclosure may include one or more frames and one or more coupling devices assembled together and suspended vertically on a fixed structure. In this way, the optical device 100 can be moved throughout the actuation (such as when the movable front lens (e.g., lens 150) is moved via the lens actuation system (e.g., lens actuation system 400), for example, by implementing Fig.24 The entire movement performed by method 2400) is supported by the connection system.
[0118] Fig. 20 An example of a coupling system 2000 is schematically shown. Figures 9 to 23 A set of reference axes 901 is shown, including an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis, to facilitate comparison of the orientations shown therein. In at least some examples, the z-axis can be a vertical axis, while the y-axis and the x-axis can be horizontal axes. Additionally or alternatively, the z-axis in the reference axes 901 can be aligned with the horizontal axis. Figures 1 to 8B The z-axis of the reference axis 101 in FIG. 100 is parallel to the z-axis of the reference axis 101 in FIG. Additionally or alternatively, the z-axis can be parallel to the direction of gravity. The connection system 2000 can include a plurality of frames 2002. In one example, each of the plurality of frames 2002 is identical. As shown in the figure, the plurality of frames 2002 can be connected to corresponding lamps 2004.
[0119] The corresponding lamp 2004 may be an optical device (e.g., Figures 1 to 8BIn at least some examples, the lamp can include an LED in coplanar contact with the mixing rod, the LED being configured to produce an optical effect. Additionally or alternatively, the lamp 2004 can include a lens actuation system adapted to move a lens therein. In another example, the lamp 2004 can be a different optical device, or other type of lamp, such as an audio device. In some examples, the lamps 2004 can be identical to one another. In another example, the lamps 2004 can include various types of lamps.
[0120] The coupling system 2000 also includes a control system 180 that includes a controller 170. The control system 180 can control each of the light fixtures 2004. For example, the control system 180 can execute instructions stored in the non-volatile memory of the controller 170 to move a lens within the light fixture 2004. The lens can move synchronously or asynchronously. The control system 180 can also cause the light fixture 2004 to rotate, swivel, or otherwise move. In examples where the light fixture 2004 is an optical device, the control system 180 can also control the light fixture 2004, such as by controlling the LEDs (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 6 The color emitted by the light fixture 2004 (the color emitted by the LED elements 112 and the backlight LEDs 127) can be used to control the optical effects produced by the light fixture 2004. The coupling system 2000 can support the light fixture 2004 throughout the entire range of motion of the light fixture 2004. For example, due to the structure of the coupling system 2000, the light fixture 2004 can be supported throughout the movement of the lens within the light fixture 2004. The coupling system 2000 can eliminate the weight burden on the light fixture 2004 and reduce the vibrations caused by its movement.
[0121] The multiple frames 2002 are interlocked via multiple coupling devices that are physically coupled to the supports of the different frames. For example, the coupling device can be physically coupled to the support of the first frame 2002a coupled to the first light fixture 2004a, and the coupling device can also be physically coupled to the support of the second frame 2002b coupled to the second light fixture 2004b. The top 2006 of the coupling system 2000 can be attached to a fixed structure so that the coupling system 2000 is suspended therefrom.
[0122] exist Fig. 20 In an example, multiple frames 2002 interlock with each other to arrange multiple lamps in columns. Additional frames and coupling devices may also be included to arrange multiple lamps in rows and / or grids with uniform spacing between each of the multiple lamps. In an example, when the lamps are rotated, turned, oscillated, or moved in another manner, the spacing between adjacent lamps in the multiple lamps may prevent contact between the lamps. In addition, the frames 2002 can be removably coupled via coupling devices so that the frames 2002 can be rearranged.
[0123] Now turn to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , showing a frame 900, which is Fig. 20 An example of the framework 2002.
[0124] The frame 900 may include a ring 918. The frame 900 may be configured to circumferentially surround a light fixture (e.g., Fig. 20 The frame 900 may include a central opening 932 through which the light fixture may be placed. The frame 900 may also include a plurality of bosses 922 through which a plurality of fasteners 924 extend that physically couple the frame 900 to the light fixture in the central opening 932. For example, the fasteners 924 may extend through the bosses 922 and into a housing of the light fixture, such as Figure 1 and Figure 6 Housing 102 of optical device 100 is shown. In this way, fasteners can mechanically couple frame 900 to the light fixture so that frame 900 circumferentially surrounds the light fixture. Frame 900 can be positioned along the center of gravity of the light fixture, which can provide additional support for the light fixture.
[0125] The frame 900 may also include a plurality of supports 902 arranged along the circumference of the ring 918. The plurality of supports 902 may be equally spaced from each other. For example, the plurality of supports 902 may be equally spaced circumferentially arranged along the frame 900. The plurality of supports 902 may be arranged in a hexagonal shape, for example, there are six supports. The supports 902 may extend parallel to the x-direction.
[0126] In one example, the number of the plurality of supports 902 is an even number. Alternatively, the number of the plurality of supports 902 may be an odd number. In one example, the first pair of supports 904 may face a first direction (e.g., a positive z-direction) and the second pair of supports 906 may face a second direction (e.g., a negative z-direction) opposite to the first direction. The distance 934 between the supports in the first pair of supports 904 and the second pair of supports 906 may be equal to or less than the diameter 914 of the frame 900. The third support 908 may be positioned diametrically opposite to the fourth support 910, wherein the third support 908 faces a third direction (e.g., a negative y-direction) and the fourth support 910 faces a fourth direction (e.g., a positive y-direction) opposite to the third direction. The third direction and the fourth direction may be perpendicular to each of the first direction and the second direction.
[0127] The first direction and the second direction may be vertical directions, while the third direction and the fourth direction may be horizontal directions. Therefore, the number of supports 902 facing the vertical direction may be more than the number of supports 902 facing the horizontal direction. The number of supports 902 facing the vertical direction may be at least as many as the number of supports 902 facing the horizontal direction. For example, the supports 902 required in the vertical direction to achieve vertical load-bearing may be more than the supports required in the horizontal direction to achieve horizontal stability. In this way, more coupling devices can be used to achieve vertical load-bearing compared to achieving horizontal stability, as further described below. In an alternative example, there may be two or more supports 902 facing each of the first direction, the second direction, the third direction, and the fourth direction.
[0128] In one example, the first pair of supports 904 and the second pair of supports 906 can extend radially outward from the frame 900 farther than the third support 908 and the fourth support 910. The first pair of supports 904 and the second pair of supports 906 can include a body 916 extending from the frame 900 and including a triangular shape. The body 916 can flush the curvature of the ring 918 so that the supports in the first pair of supports 904 are flush with each other. Similarly, the supports in the second pair of supports 906 are flush with each other. Depending on the position along the ring 918, the third support 908 and the fourth support 910 may not include a body configured to face in a horizontal direction like the body 916 due to being tangential to the ring 918.
[0129] The frame 900 may also include a guide point 912. The guide point 912 may be configured to maintain a connection to a light fixture such as Fig. 20 The guide points 912 can be arranged symmetrically about the frame 900. In one example, adjacent guide points 912 can be separated by at least one of the plurality of brackets 902. The guide points 912 can ensure that the wires do not interfere with the assembly of the coupling system or the movement of the fixture within the coupling system.
[0130] The frame 900 (including the support 902, the guide point 912, and the boss 922) can be symmetrical. For example, the frame 900 can be symmetrical across a first symmetry plane 1002 that is parallel to a vertical direction (e.g., the z-direction). Additionally or alternatively, the frame 900 can be symmetrical across a second symmetry plane 1004 that is parallel to a horizontal direction (e.g., the y-direction). The second symmetry plane 1004 can be perpendicular to the first symmetry plane 1002.
[0131] Now turn to Fig.11, which shows the back side 1100 of the frame 900. The back side 1100 can be opened and expose the support structure 1102 of the frame 900. The support structure 1102 can include a plurality of triangles extending between the outer perimeter and the inner perimeter of the frame 900. In this way, the frame 900 can withstand the forces exerted on it by supporting the lamp. The frame 900 can remove the load-bearing force from the lamp located in the opening 932.
[0132] Fig.21A and Fig. 21B A front view 2110 and a rear view 2120 of one of the supports 902 are shown, respectively. The front view 2110 is Fig. 9 An enlarged view of a portion 930 of FIG. 2120 is a rear view of FIG. Fig.11 An enlarged view of a portion 1130.
[0133] The support 902 includes a receptacle 2102 adapted to receive a coupling device. The receptacle 2102 can be defined by two rails 2104 and an end wall 2106 protruding from a surface 2112. The surface 2112 can determine the direction in which the support 902 faces. For example, the support 902 can be described as facing the direction in which the corresponding surface 2112 faces.
[0134] End wall 2106 can be perpendicular to surface 2112. End wall 2106 can be trapezoidal. Alternatively, end wall 2106 can be rectangular, oval, or any other shape depending on the geometry of the coupling device. End wall 2106 can include one or more openings 2108. For example, when the coupling device is located in receptacle 2102, opening 2108 can allow visibility of the coupling device.
[0135] The two guide rails 2104 can be perpendicular to the end wall 2106. The two guide rails 2104 can extend from the inclined side of the trapezoidal shape of the end wall 2106. The two guide rails 2104 can extend from the surface 2112 at a non-perpendicular angle. In other examples, the two guide rails can be perpendicular to the surface 2112. The two guide rails 2104 can be bent toward each other (e.g., curved, turned, etc.). In this way, the two guide rails 2104 can partially enclose the receptacle 2102. For example, a portion 2116 of the two guide rails 2104 that is farther from the surface 2112 can be parallel to the surface 2112. The two guide rails 2104 can be symmetrical to each other.
[0136] The support opening 2114 can extend from the surface 2112 toward the ring 918. The two guide rails 2104 can be arranged on opposite sides of the support opening 2114. The support opening 2114 can be spaced apart from the rear side 1100. The support opening 2114 can extend along the surface 2112 toward the end wall 2106. In some examples, the support opening 2114 can also extend upward along the end wall 2106. In such examples, the support opening 2114 can be spaced apart from one or more openings 2108. Additionally or alternatively, the support opening 2114 can be spaced apart from the guide rails 2104. In some examples, the support opening 2114 is a through hole. In other examples, the support opening 2114 can be a groove or a blind hole, the shape of which is designed to receive a latch of a coupling device, as further described below.
[0137] Now turn to Fig.12 , which shows a coupling device 1200. In one example, the coupling device 1200 can be a clip. Specifically, the coupling device 1200 can be a spring-loaded clip. The coupling device 1200 can be used to couple the two frames together by physically and reversibly coupling to the corresponding supports of the two frames. The coupling device 1200 can have an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the coupling device can lock the two frames together. In the disengaged position, the coupling device may not be physically coupled to the two frames. The coupling device 1200 can be moved between the engaged position and the disengaged position by adjusting the latch (such as by actuating a lever of the coupling device), as further described below.
[0138] The coupling device 1200 may include a body 1202. The body 1202 may be relative to Figures 9 to 11 and FIG. 21A to FIG. 22 The plurality of supports 902 are symmetrical and complementary in shape. For example, the body 1202 may include leaf-shaped grooves 1204, each of which receives a guide rail of a support in the plurality of supports (e.g., FIG. 21A to FIG. 22 The top 1206 or bottom 1208 may be connected to a socket of a support (e.g., FIG. 21A to FIG. 222102) so that the coupling device 1200 is slidably engaged with the support. Specifically, the leaf-shaped grooves 1204 can be slidably engaged with the guide rails. For example, the body 1202 can include four leaf-shaped grooves 1204, wherein a first pair 1222 of the leaf-shaped grooves 1204 are adjacent to the top 1206, and a second pair 1224 of the leaf-shaped grooves 1204 are adjacent to the bottom 1208. The first pair 1222 can receive the guide rails of the first support positioned in coplanar contact with the top 1206, and the second pair 1224 can receive the guide rails of the second support positioned in coplanar contact with the bottom 1208. For example, the hinge end 1226 can be inserted into the receptacles of the first support and the second support, and the coupling device 1200 can slide toward it to be slidably engaged with the first support and the second support, so that the lever end 1228 is located at the position where the hinge end 1226 was originally inserted. The coupling device 1200 can also include a protrusion 1232 from the side of the body 1202. The protrusion 1232 may be perpendicular to the groove 1204. The protrusion 1232 may be configured to fix the guide rail of the corresponding support in the groove 1204. Figures 15 to 19 The engagement of the coupling device 1200 with the support is described in more detail.
[0139] As another example, coupling device 1200 can include a rail shaped similar to rail 2104, and mount 902 can include a complementary leaf-shaped groove similar to groove 1204. In this way, coupling device 1200 and mount 902 can be slidingly engaged via complementary rails and grooves, wherein mount 902 can include either the rail or the groove, and coupling device 1200 can include the other of the rail or the groove.
[0140] The coupling device 1200 may also include a latch 1212. In one example, the latch 1212 is a first latch adjacent to the top 1206. The latch 1212 may be moved via a first lever 1214. The latch 1212 may be spring loaded. Fig.12 In the position, latch 1212 protrudes through the surface of top 1206. In one example, Fig.12 The position of is an engaged (eg, locked) position. The latch 1212 can extend through an opening (eg, FIG. 21A to FIG. 22 The latch 1212 may be removed from the support to which it is locked without actuating the first lever 1214 to the disengaged position.
[0141] about Fig.14AThe disengaged (e.g., unlocked) position is shown in more detail. Among other things, the disengaged position includes the latch 1212 being flush with (or below) the surface of the top 1206. The latch 1212 does not protrude through the opening of the top 1206 and the coupling device 1200 can be disengaged (e.g., separated, removed, etc.) from the corresponding support.
[0142] Now turn to Fig.13 , which shows a cross-sectional view of the coupling device 1200. Therein, a second latch 1312 is shown. The second latch 1312 is moved via a second lever 1314. The first latch 1212, the second latch 1312, the first lever 1214, and the second lever 1314 are coupled to a spring 1322. The levers 1214, 1314 can extend beyond the body 1202, thereby allowing a user to actuate the levers 1214, 1314. The first latch 1212 can be moved via the first lever 1214, and the second latch 1312 can be moved via the second lever 1314.
[0143] The spring 1322 can be flat and bent to fold in half. For example, the spring 1322 can be described as having three integral parts, including a first arm 1334, a second arm 1336, and a bent portion 1332 therebetween. The bent portion 1332 can be closer to the hinge end 1226 than the arms 1334, 1336. The spring 1322 can resist compression. For example, the arms 1334, 1336 can be pressed against the inner surface 1338 of the body 1202. Specifically, the first arm 1334 can be pressed against the top 1206, and the second arm 1336 can be pressed against the bottom 1208. The locked position in which the levers 1214, 1314 are farthest apart and the latches 1212, 1312 protrude beyond the body 1202 can be the static position of the coupling device 1200. In this way, the latches 1212 , 1312 can be spring loaded by the spring 1322 so that the locked position is the rest position of the coupling device 1200 .
[0144] By moving the levers 1214, 1314 toward each other, the spring 1322 can be compressed, thereby further bending at the curved portion 1332. For example, the user can apply pressure to the levers 1214, 1314 by pinching the levers 1214, 1314 together. The levers 1214, 1314 may include a gripping surface 1360 having a texture such as a plurality of parallel protrusions so that the user can more firmly grasp the levers 1214, 1314 (e.g., with greater friction). When the spring 1322 is compressed, the levers 1214, 1314 can separate from the top 1206 and the bottom 1208 of the body 1202. When the spring 1322 is compressed, there can be a gap between the levers 1214, 1314 and the inner surface 1338.
[0145] The first arm 1334 and the second arm 1336 may include a tab 1330 closer to the lever end 1228 on an end opposite the bent portion 1332. Each of the first arm 1334 and the second arm 1336 may include two tabs 1330 extending therefrom. The tab 1330 of the first arm 1334 may be bent away from the tab 1330 of the second arm 1336 so that the tab 1330 extends toward the respective adjacent lever 1214, 1314. The lever 1214, 1314 may include a notch 1362 along which the tab 1330 slides when the spring 1322 is compressed and extended. In this way, the compression of the spring 1322 relative to the lever 1214, 1314 can be guided by aligning the tab 1330 with the lever 1214, 1314 through the notch 1362. Additionally, the protrusion 1364 extending laterally from the notch 1362 can prevent the tab 1330 from moving too far toward the lever end 1228. For example, if the spring 1322 is compressed enough that the latches 1212, 1312 do not extend into the body 1202, the latches 1212, 1312 may become misaligned with the openings in the top 1206 and bottom 1208. Including the protrusion 1364 can limit the range of motion of the spring 1322 to prevent over-compression when the latches 1212, 1312 are separated from the body 1202.
[0146] The latch 1212, 1312 can extend through the opening 1348 in the first arm 1334 and the second arm 1336. For example, the latch 1212, 1312 can include a triangular protrusion 1350 extending through the opening 1348. The protrusion 1350 can remain through the opening 1348 throughout the actuation of the spring 1322. In this way, the protrusion 1350 can prevent the spring 1322 from moving laterally, such as toward the lever end 1228. The protrusion 1350 can guide the movement of the spring 1322 when actuated via the lever 1214, 1314, so that the arms 1334, 1336 move vertically to compress or extend the spring 1322.
[0147] The spring 1322 can be bent around the rivet 1346. The rivet 1346 can extend through the levers 1214, 1314 and the body 1202 at the hinge end 1226. When compressed, the spring 1322 can be further bent around the rivet 1346, and the levers 1214, 1314 can be hinged around the rivet 1346. The rivet 1346 can ensure that the spring 1322 remains in place relative to the body 1202. Specifically, the rivet 1346 can prevent lateral movement of the spring 1322 toward the lever end 1228. For example, the bent portion 1332 can be between the body 1202 and the rivet 1346. Therefore, similar to the protrusion 1350 and the tab 1330, the rivet 1346 can stabilize the movement of the spring 1322. In some examples, the rivet 1346 may not be included.
[0148] The latches 1212, 1312 may also include a curved portion 1352. The curved portion 1352 may include a curved surface that contacts the levers 1214, 1314 and the arms 1334, 1336. The curved surface of the curved portion 1352 may allow for a smooth transition during actuation of the spring 1322 via the levers 1214, 1314. Additionally, the size of the curved portion 1352 may be larger than the arm opening 1348 and the lever opening 1354 through which the latches 1212, 1312 extend. In this manner, the curved portion 1352 may be interposed between the respective levers 1214, 1314 and the arms 1334, 1336. Thus, when pressure is applied to the levers 1214, 1314, the levers 1214, 1314 may be pressed against the spring 1322 via the curved portion 1352 and / or direct contact therebetween. When pressure is released from the levers 1214, 1314, the spring 1322 can expand back to the rest position.
[0149] exist Fig.13 In the example of FIG. 1 , spring 1322 is shown in an extended position. When coupling device 1200 is in a disengaged position (e.g., unlocked position), as shown in FIG. Fig.14A As shown, the spring 1322 can be in a compact position, wherein the arm distance 1342 between the arms 1334, 1336 of the spring 1322 is reduced compared to the extended position. In addition, the latch distance 1344 between the first latch 1212 and the second latch 1312 is reduced in the disengaged position compared to the engaged position. The first latch 1212 and the second latch 1312 can be retractable to an unlocked position via the first lever 1214 and the second lever 1314, respectively. Therefore, the first latch 1212 and the second latch 1312 can, for example, be reversibly locked and unlocked with the first seat opening of the first frame and the second seat opening of the second frame, respectively.
[0150] Steering Fig.14A , the coupling device 1200 is shown in a disengaged (e.g., unlocked) position. In the disengaged position, the latches 1212, 1312 do not protrude beyond the body 1202. For example, the first latch 1212 and the second latch 1312 can be flush with the top 1206 and the bottom 1208, respectively. To reach the disengaged position from the static engaged position, the user can manually apply pressure to the levers 1214, 1314 to compress the spring 1322 ( Fig.14A 1206 and / or the bottom 1208 coplanar contact surface.
[0151] In addition, the coupling device 1200 may include a visual indicator including a first indicator 1402 and a second indicator 1404 to signal whether the latches 1212, 1312 are in an engaged position or a disengaged position when the latches 1212, 1312 are not directly visible. For example, when the coupling device 1200 is positioned to engage with a support of the frame, the latch may not be visible due to contact with the support. Therefore, the indicators 1402, 1404 can provide a simple visual confirmation of whether the coupling device 1200 is engaged with the support. The first indicator 1402 can indicate whether the latch 1212 protrudes from the body 1202. For example, if the first indicator 1402 is visible, it can be inferred that the first latch 1212 is not locked. If the first indicator 1402 is covered by the lever 1214, the latch 1212 may be in a locked position. Similarly, the second indicator 1404 can indicate whether the second latch 1312 protrudes from the body 1202. For example, if the second indicator 1404 is visible, it can be inferred that the second latch 1312 is not locked. If the second indicator 1404 is covered by the second lever 1314, the second latch 1312 may be in a locked position. In this way, the position of the latches 1212, 1312 can be determined without directly seeing the latches 1212, 1312, so as to ensure engagement between the coupling device and the support of the frame when necessary.
[0152] In one example, the first lever 1214 and the second lever 1314 can be independently actuated so that one of the levers 1214, 1314 can be in a disengaged position and the other can be in an engaged position. For example, the first lever 1214 can be actuated and the first latch 1212 can be retracted into the interior space of the coupling device 1200, while the second latch 1312 protrudes out of the bottom 1208 due to the second lever 1314 not being actuated. By doing so, the coupling device 1200 can remain locked (e.g., engaged) to a first support of a first frame via the second latch 1312, while being unlocked (e.g., disengaged) from a second support of a second frame different from the first frame via the retracted first latch 1212.
[0153] For example, turning Fig. 14B , showing the coupling device 1200 in a position where the second latch 1312 (not shown) is locked and the first latch 1212 is unlocked. Fig.14A The second indicator 1404 is blocked by the lever 1314, so (e.g., the installer) can infer that the second latch 1312 is in the locked position. Fig. 14B In the position, if the bottom 1208 is in coplanar contact with a surface, the latch 1312 can protrude through the surface and interlock with it.
[0154] Conversely, because the first indicator 1402 is visible, it can be inferred (eg, by an installer) that the first latch 1212 protrudes less than the distance that the first indicator 1402 protrudes. Fig.13 The maximum distance 1356 of the projection (e.g., no projection at all or projection up to but not including distance 1356) and is therefore not in the locked position. Fig. 14B 1406 is in a coplanar position with the surface, the latch 1212 may not fully extend through the surface and therefore may not be securely interlocked therewith. During assembly of the coupling system, the installer can check the indicator (such as the first indicator 1402) to ensure that the coupling device 1200 is securely locking the components such as the frame together. If the indicator is visible, the installer can adjust the coupling device 1200 until the indicator is not visible to correct the misalignment of the coupling device 1200. In this way, the structural integrity of the coupling system can be visually confirmed during and after assembly.
[0155] Return to Fig.13 In one example, the portion 1358 of each of the first latch 1212 and the second latch 1312 that protrudes from the body 1202 may include a triangular shape. The first latch 1212 and the second latch 1312 may be tilted in a direction so that the coupling device 1200 can be inserted into the mount without actuating the first lever 1214 or the second lever 1314. For example, the latches 1212, 1312 may be tilted toward the lever end 1228. That is, in the locked position, the latches 1212, 1312 may be tilted from being flush with the body 1202 closest to the hinge end 1226 to a maximum protrusion distance 1356 from the body 1202 closest to the lever end 1228. In this way, for example, when a surface (e.g., of the mount) slides along the top 1206 from the hinge end 1226 toward the latch 1212, the latch may remain protruding from the top 1206. When the surface reaches the latch 1212 and continues above it, the latch 1212 may be gradually pushed downward by the surface according to the inclination of the ramp shape of the portion of the latch 1212 protruding from the body 1202 in the locked position. Therefore, the surface is in coplanar contact with the top 1206 and slides over the ramp of the latch 1212, which may retract the latch 1212 instead of actuating the lever 1214. Although not directly actuated, the lever 1214 may move toward the lever 1314 due to pushing the latch 1212 into the body 1202. For example, pushing the latch 1212 downward may directly push the lever 1214 and the first arm 1334 downward.
[0156] The surface may include an opening that, when aligned with the latch 1212, allows the latch 1212 to extend through the opening, thereby locking the latch 1212 to the surface. Fig.21AThe surface 2112 of the support 902 is slid until the latch 1212 is aligned with the support opening 2114, thereby allowing the latch 1212 to pop up therein and interlock with the corresponding support 902.
[0157] Latch 1312 can similarly be pushed upwards via the surface sliding along the coplanar contact of bottom 1208 until reaching the opening that can be ejected. As described above, latches 1212, 1312 can be independent of each other. Therefore, latch 1212 can be pushed downwards by sliding over top 1206 by the first surface, while latch 1312 remains in the locked position. Before, after or as an alternative to latch 1212 being pushed downwards, latch 1312 can be pushed upwards by sliding over bottom 1208 by the second surface, while latch 1212 remains in the locked position. In addition or alternatively, latch 1212 and latch 1312 can be pushed toward each other at the same time by sliding against top 1206 and bottom 1208 by the first surface and the second surface.
[0158] Thus, the latches 1212, 1312 can lock with a surface (e.g., a mount on a frame) to physically couple the surfaces with or without actuating the levers 1214, 1314. Furthermore, the latches 1212, 1312 can lock with the surfaces sequentially or simultaneously, thereby allowing for flexible assembly, disassembly, or rearrangement of a coupling system including the surfaces and the coupling device 1200.
[0159] like Fig.15 As shown, the coupling device 1200 can be directed toward a support among the plurality of supports 902. The hinge end 1226 of the coupling device 1200 can be closer to the support when positioned to engage with the support 902 than the lever end 1228. For example, the coupling device 1200 can be directed toward the support 902 so that the coupling device 1200 can engage with the support 902 without actuating the first lever 1214 or the second lever 1314. Fig. 22 Shows Fig.15 Detailed view of portion 1502 of . Therein, coupling device 1200 is positioned so that hinge end 1226 faces rear side 1100 of frame 900 and is aligned with support 902 along the x-direction. For example, guide rail 2104 and groove 1204 can be parallel to the x-direction. In addition, bottom 1208 can be parallel to surface 2112.
[0160] A first distance 2202 from the end wall 2106 to the end of the seat opening 2114 can be approximately the same as a second distance 2204 between the hinge end 1226 and the end of the latch 1212 farthest from the hinge end 1226. Fig. 221206. Although not shown in the drawings, the end of the second latch 1312 that is farthest from the hinge end 1226 may also be spaced apart from the hinge end 1226 by a second distance 2204. In this way, when the latch 1312 is locked into the seat opening 2114, the latch 1312 can securely hold the coupling device to the end wall 2106. Thus, the latch 1312 can prevent lateral movement of the coupling device 1200 relative to the frame 900 in the x-direction when in a locked position with the seat 902. In addition, the third distance 2206 between the seat opening 2114 and the back side 1100 of the frame 900 may be no longer than the fourth distance 2208 between the latch 1212, 1312 and the lever 1214, 1314. In this way, the levers 1214 , 1314 may extend from the rear side 1100 such that the frame 900 does not interfere with actuation of the levers 1214 , 1314 when the coupling device 1200 is locked into the mount 902 .
[0161] Fig.16 The coupling device 1200 is shown coupled to the support 902. For example, the coupling device 1200 can be coupled from the support 902 along the x direction. Fig.15 Slide to the position in Fig.16 1204 and 1206. The second pair 1224 is shown coupled to the guide rail 2104, wherein the bottom 1208 ( Fig. 22 ) and the surface of the support 902 (eg, FIG. 21A to FIG. 22 However, due to the symmetrical design of the coupling device 1200, the coupling device 1200 can be flipped so that the first pair 1222 engages with the guide rail 2104 and the top 1206 is in coplanar contact with the surface of the support 902.
[0162] The engagement of the guide rail 2104 with the groove 1204 can maintain the position of the coupling device 1200 relative to the frame 900 along the radial direction and the tangential direction with respect to the frame 900. The radial direction and the tangential direction can be respectively along Fig.16 In addition or alternatively, the radial direction and the tangential direction can be perpendicular to the guide rail 2104. In addition, the protrusion 1232 can directly contact the guide rail 2104. In this way, the protrusion can further stabilize the coupling device 1200 relative to the frame 900 along the radial direction (e.g., along the Fig.16 For example, the guide rail 2104 may be between the protrusion 1232 and the bottom 1208. In some examples, an additional protrusion may extend from the coupling device 1200, the additional protrusion being configured to contact the guide rail 2104 in the locked position to increase the coupling strength between the coupling device 1200 and the frame 900 in a radial direction with respect to the frame 900.
[0163] The coupling device 1200 can be in coplanar contact with the end wall 2106. That is, the hinge end 1226 can be pressed against the inner surface of the end wall 2106. For example, the latch 1312 abuts against the support opening 2114 ( Fig.16 The end closest to the rear side 1100 of the embodiment shown in the figure makes it possible to maintain the coupling device 1200 relative to the frame 900 in the axial direction (for example, about Fig.16 The axial direction may be parallel to the guide rail 2104.
[0164] The coupling device 1200 can engage with a second mount of the second frame. For example, the second mount can be slidably engaged with the first pair 1222, wherein the top 1206 contacts the surface of the second mount and the latch 1212 extends through the opening in the second mount. Additionally, additional coupling devices 1200 can be coupled to other mounts 902 of the frame 900. For example, each of the mounts 902 can engage with a coupling device 1200. In one example, there can be up to six coupling devices 1200 coupled to the frame 900.
[0165] Fig.17 A plurality of coupling devices 1700 are shown directed toward a support in the plurality of supports 902, which may be coupled to Fig.12 When this occurs, the coupling device 1200 remains physically coupled to a support in the plurality of supports 902. In this way, the coupling device 1200 can be physically coupled to the frame 900 in sequence to construct a coupling system according to the present disclosure. In addition, in order to disassemble or rearrange the coupling system, some coupling devices may remain engaged while others are disengaged. In this way, the coupling system of the present disclosure can be modular and can be rearranged after initial installation.
[0166] Fig.18 A plurality of coupling devices 1700 are shown physically coupled to a plurality of supports 902. The plurality of coupling devices 1700 can be physically coupled to a first pair of supports 904. Each of the coupling devices 1700 can be physically coupled to a corresponding support in the plurality of supports 902. Fig.18 In the example of FIG. 1 , three coupling devices 1200 are physically coupled to three different supports in the plurality of supports 902 . Fig.18 In the example of FIG. 1 , three coupling devices 1200 can be configured to physically couple frame 900 to up to three other frames, which can be identical to frame 900. Two of coupling devices 1200 can be coupled to two supports of a second frame, such that Fig.18 The three coupling devices shown can physically couple frame 900 to up to two other frames. Fig.18 In the example of , up to three coupling devices can be engaged with frame 900. In this way, frame 900 can be coupled with up to six other supports (e.g., three or more other frames), which can be the same as support 902 of frame 900.
[0167] Fig.19 Detailed view of the coupling device 1200 is shown in engagement with the support 902 of the first pair of supports 904. As described above, the coupling device 1200 can be reversibly slidably engaged with the guide rail 2104 and can be connected to the guide rail 2104 via the guide rail 2104. Fig.13 The latch 1312 of the coupling device 1200 is locked with the opening 2114 so that the coupling device 1200 is in coplanar contact with the end wall 2106. A second support (e.g., of a second frame) can engage with the first pair 1222 of the coupling device 1200 and the latch 1212 to physically couple the support 902 with the second support. Fig.12 In the example of FIG. 1 , the coupling device 1200 can bear weight by facing in a vertical direction.
[0168] Fig.23 An exemplary coupling system 2300 is shown that includes a plurality of frames 900 and a plurality of coupling devices 1200. Coupling devices 1200 may interconnect frames 900, as described above. Frames 900 may be identical to one another. Likewise, coupling devices 1200 may be identical to one another.
[0169] For example, the first support 902a of the first frame 900a can be physically connected to the second support 902b of the second frame 900b via the first coupling device 1200a. The first support 902a and the second support 902b can face each other with the first coupling device 1200a interposed therebetween. The first support 902a and the second support 902b can be horizontally adjacent, and the first coupling device 1200 can be a horizontal coupling device. The horizontal coupling device that couples horizontally adjacent frames can provide support between columns.
[0170] The interconnecting frame 900 and the coupling device 1200 can be physically coupled to the extendable strip 2302. The strip 2302 can be a rectangular strip. Alternatively, the strip 2302 can be cylindrical. The extendable element 2310 can slide into and out of the strip 2302 to extend the strip 2302 according to the structure on which the coupling system 2300 is mounted. The fastener 2312 can secure the extendable element 2310 with the strip 2302 at a desired length. The extendable element 2310 can be inserted into a second extendable strip to connect the two extendable strips 2302. In this way, additional columns of frames 900 can be added to the coupling system 2300.
[0171] The extendable strip 2302 may include one or more strip supports 2314. The strip supports 2314 may be identical to the supports 902 of the frame 900. For example, the strip supports 2314 may include rails adapted to engage with the leaf-shaped grooves of the coupling device 1200 and a support opening configured to receive a latch of the coupling device 1200. In this manner, each of the coupling devices 1200 may engage with each of the supports 902 and one of the strip supports 2314 to attach the frame 900 to the extendable strip 2302. For example, the second coupling device 1200b may physically couple the third support 902c of the first frame 900a with the fourth support 2314a of the extendable strip 2302. The third support 902c and the fourth support 2314a may be vertically adjacent, such that the second coupling device 1200b may be a vertical coupling device. Vertical coupling devices may be more load-bearing than horizontal coupling devices, such as the first coupling device 1200.
[0172] The strip 2302 can be fixed to a structure. For example, the structure can include a rod extending through a sliding coupler 2304 at the top of the extendable strip 2302. The sliding coupler 2304 can slide along the strip 2302 and be fixed to any point along the strip 2302. The sliding coupler 2304 can include a clamp 2308 and a fastener 2306 that fastens the clamp 2308 around the rod of the structure. In this way, the coupling system 2300 can be suspended from the structure at the top 2322 of the coupling system 2300. In some examples, the bottom 2324 of the coupling system 2300 can also be fixed to the same structure or a different structure. In other examples, the coupling system 2300 can be freely suspended (e.g., without fixing other points other than the top 2322). The frame 900 and the coupling device 1200 can bear the vertical load generated by the suspension, rather than the light fixture arranged in the frame 900 and connected to the frame via the boss 922 and the fastener 924. That is, the frame 900 and the coupling device 1200 can reduce the load on the lamp.
[0173] Vertically adjacent frames 900 can be spaced apart from each other by a vertical distance 2326. Horizontally adjacent frames 900 can be spaced apart from each other by a horizontal distance 2328. Vertical distance 2326 can be approximately equal to horizontal distance 2328. Alternatively, vertical distance 2326 can be longer or shorter than horizontal distance 2328. Vertical distance 2326 and horizontal distance 2328 can be large enough to allow actuation (e.g., rotation, swivel, pivot, etc.) of the light fixture without causing the light fixture to collide.
[0174] In this way, the coupling system 2300 can support multiple lamps. The coupling system 2300 can include an array (e.g., individual columns or rows), a grid, or a lattice configuration. For example, each column may include up to fifteen frames. In another example, each column may include up to twenty frames. In another example, each column may include up to fifty frames. Any number of strips 2302 can be arranged side by side to extend the row and increase the number of columns of frames. Between adjacent frames 900 in a column (e.g., vertically adjacent frames), two coupling devices 1200 can engage with the support of each of the frames 900. Between adjacent frames 900 in a row (e.g., horizontally adjacent frames), one coupling device 1200 can engage with the support of each of the frames 900. In this way, due to the large vertical load, the number of vertical coupling devices may be greater than the number of horizontal coupling devices. In other examples, different numbers of coupling devices can be used. For example, there can be one or more coupling devices between vertically adjacent pairs of frames, and there can be one or more coupling devices between horizontally adjacent pairs of frames.
[0175] The coupling system 2300 can support the luminaire throughout its range of motion (such as rotation). In addition, in the case where the luminaire includes a lens actuation system (e.g., FIG. 4A to FIG. 8B In the example of a lens actuation system 400 , the coupling system 2300 can support the luminaire throughout the entire range of motion of the lens (eg, movement of the lens 150 between an upstream position and a downstream position).
[0176] The technical effect of the optical device disclosed herein is to eliminate the air gap between the LED (e.g., LED element 112) and the light mixing rod (e.g., light mixing rod 114) so as to reduce the difference between the optical effects produced by the optical device. For example, in the aforementioned example, tolerances may cause the air gap to have inconsistent sizes. By pressing the LED and the light mixing rod together via an elastic member, the air gap in the optical device of the present disclosure is eliminated. In doing so, pressure may be applied to the glass cover of the LED. Therefore, the thickness of the glass cover may need to be increased accordingly to withstand such pressure. The strength of the elastic member may be greater than the force applied thereto during the operation (including rotation and other movements) of the optical device. In this way, instead of protecting the LED from degradation (e.g., degradation caused by collision with the light mixing rod during movement) by an air gap, the LED can be reduced (e.g., prevented) from degradation during the operation of the optical device by maintaining a firm coplanar contact between the LED and the light mixing rod by an elastic member (e.g., a spring).
[0177] The present disclosure also provides support for an optical device, the optical device comprising: a light emitting diode (LED) element, the LED element being in coplanar contact with a light mixing rod, wherein the coplanar contact is maintained by an elastic member throughout the actuation of the optical device. In a first example of the system, the elastic member comprises a spring, the spring being physically coupled to a lamp post cover arranged at a first end of the light mixing rod and a surface at a second end of the light mixing rod opposite to the first end, on which the LED element is mounted. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the system further comprises: a fluid manifold, the fluid manifold being arranged between a housing of the optical device and the LED element. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first example and the second example), a plurality of heat exchangers fluidly coupled to the fluid manifold radially surround the light mixing rod. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), the lamp post housing comprises a guide feature, the guide feature being configured to center the light mixing rod relative to the LED element. In a fifth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the light mixing rod and the LED element are a single integral piece. In a sixth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples), the LED element includes a transparent cover having a thickness of 0.5 mm or greater.
[0178] The present disclosure also provides support for an optical device, the optical device comprising: a light emitting diode (LED) element, the LED being in coplanar contact with a light mixing rod through an elastic member, wherein the light mixing rod is between the LED element and the lamp post cover, and the elastic member is physically connected to the surface where the lamp post cover and the LED element are located. In a first example of the system, the elastic member comprises one or more compression springs. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the light mixing rod is surrounded by a lamp post housing that is parallel to and in contact with the elastic member. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first example and the second example), the lamp post housing is radially surrounded by a plurality of heat exchangers oriented perpendicular to the light mixing rod. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to third examples), the lamp post housing comprises a centering protrusion that extends axially along the lamp post housing and is in contact with the elastic member. In a fifth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the pole housing is fixed to the surface and spaced apart from the LED element. In a sixth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fifth examples), the LED element includes a transparent cover having a thickness between 0.55 mm and 1.0 mm.
[0179] The present disclosure also provides support for an optical device, the optical device comprising: a light mixing rod, the light mixing rod is pressed against a light emitting diode (LED) element by an elastic member, the stretch resistance of the elastic member is greater than the separation force experienced during the movement of the optical device; and a motor, the motor is configured to drive the linear oscillating movement of the lens toward and away from the LED element and the light mixing rod. In a first example of the system, the light mixing rod is between the LED element and the lamp post cover. In a second example of the system (optionally including the first example), the elastic member is physically connected to the lamp post cover at a first end and physically connected to a surface on which the LED element is mounted at a second end. In a third example of the system (optionally including one or both of the first example and the second example), the lamp post cover is in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod. In a fourth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first example to the third example), the elastic member includes two or more springs. In a fifth example of the system (optionally including one or more or each of the first to fourth examples), the LED element includes a transparent cover with a thickness between 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm.
[0180] In another representation, a system (such as a lens actuation system) includes: a motor; a flywheel, the flywheel is coupled to the motor via an axis; a connecting link, the connecting link is coupled to the flywheel via a rod; and a plurality of articulated arms, the plurality of articulated arms extending from the connecting link to a frame of the lens. The flywheel is configured to rotate 360 degrees around an axis of rotation. The frame includes a retaining feature that engages a track arranged in a housing. In one example, the housing is a housing for an optical device. The lens actuation system may be arranged at a front section of the housing, separated from a rear section of the housing including an LED element and a light mixing rod. The retaining feature is configured to move along a first axis and a second axis. The second axis is perpendicular to the first axis. The second axis is parallel to the axis of rotation around which the flywheel rotates. The lens may be a front lens of an optical device. Each of the axis, the flywheel, the connecting link, the rod, the plurality of articulated arms, the frame, and the lens is configured to move based on the operation of the motor. The movement may result in the lens being in a downstream position, an upstream position, or a position therebetween, based on a desired effect, such as a desired lighting effect.
[0181] As used in this application, an element or step listed in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is indicated. In addition, reference to "one embodiment" or "an example" of the present disclosure is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the listed features. The terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements or specific positional order on their objects. The following claims specifically point out subject matter from the above disclosure that is considered novel and non-obvious.
[0182] It should be understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary in nature, and these specific embodiments should not be considered to have a limiting meaning, as many variations are possible. In addition, unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are not intended to represent any order, position, quantity, or importance, but are merely used as labels to distinguish one element from another. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations and other features, functions, and / or properties disclosed herein.
[0183] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the term "about" is interpreted to mean ±5% of the stated range.
[0184] The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and sub-combinations deemed novel and non-obvious. These claims may refer to "an" element or a "first" element or the equivalent thereof. Such claims should be understood to include the introduction of one or more such elements, thereby neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or properties may be claimed by amendment of the present claims or by presenting new claims in this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equivalent, or different in scope to the original claims, are deemed to be included in the subject matter of the present disclosure.
Claims
1. An optical device, comprising: A light emitting diode (LED) element is in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod, wherein the coplanar contact is maintained by a resilient member throughout actuation of the optical device.
2. The optical device of claim 1 , wherein the elastic member comprises a spring, the spring being physically coupled to a lamp bar cover disposed at a first end of the mixing bar and a surface at a second end of the mixing bar opposite to the first end, on which the LED element is mounted.
3. The optical device of claim 1, further comprising a fluid manifold disposed between a housing of the optical device and the LED elements.
4. The optical device of claim 3, wherein a plurality of heat exchangers fluidly coupled to the fluid manifold radially surround the light mixing rod.
5. The optical device of claim 1, wherein the light bar housing includes a guide feature configured to center the mixing bar relative to the LED element.
6. The optical device of claim 1, wherein the light mixing rod and the LED element are a single integral piece.
7. The optical device of claim 1, wherein the LED element comprises a transparent cover having a thickness of at least 0.5 mm.
8. An optical device comprising: A light emitting diode (LED) element is in coplanar contact with a light mixing rod through an elastic member, wherein the light mixing rod is interposed between the LED element and the lamp pole cover, and the elastic member is physically coupled to the lamp pole cover and the surface where the LED element is located.
9. The optical device of claim 8, wherein the resilient member comprises one or more compression springs.
10. The optical device according to claim 8, wherein the light mixing rod is surrounded by a lamp rod housing which is parallel to and in contact with the elastic member.
11. The optical device of claim 10, wherein the light bar housing is radially surrounded by a plurality of heat exchangers oriented perpendicular to the mixing bar.
12. The optical device of claim 10, wherein the lamp post housing comprises a centering protrusion extending axially along the lamp post housing and contacting the elastic element.
13. The optical device of claim 10, wherein the light pole housing is secured to the surface and is spaced apart from the LED element.
14. The optical device of claim 8, wherein the LED element comprises a transparent cover having a thickness between 0.55 mm and 1.0 mm.
15. An optical device comprising: a light mixing rod pressed against a light emitting diode (LED) element by an elastic member having a stretching resistance greater than a separation force experienced during movement of the optical device; as well as A motor is configured to drive a linear oscillating motion of the lens toward and away from the LED element and the mixing rod. 16 . The optical device as claimed in claim 15 , wherein the light mixing rod is interposed between the LED element and the lamp rod cover.
17. The optical device of claim 16, wherein the resilient member is physically coupled to the light pole cover at a first end and is physically coupled to a surface on which the LED element is mounted at a second end. The optical device according to claim 16 , wherein the lamp rod cover is in coplanar contact with the light mixing rod.
19. The optical device of claim 15, wherein the elastic member comprises two or more springs.
20. The optical device of claim 15, wherein the LED element comprises a transparent cover having a thickness between 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm.