Lighting device with gamma stimulation

Abstract

The application discloses a lighting device with gamma stimulation, the lighting device comprising a controller and three light sources, each light source having a different color temperature. The controller alternately turns on the second light source and the third light source at a strobe frequency between 30 Hz and 65 Hz to produce strobe light (originating from the second light source and the third light source) having a combined color temperature close to the color temperature of the first light source. The lighting device may also include a controller and two light sources. The first light source and the second light source operate at different frequencies to generate superimposed light having an operating frequency equal to a difference between the two frequencies. The lighting device can also periodically turn off one of the two light sources for a short time to induce the brain of the user to better recognize the frequency of the superimposed light.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of lighting devices, and in particular, to a lighting device with gamma stimulation. Background Art

[0002] Research has found that by flashing lights at a frequency of 35 Hz to 45 Hz or generating sounds at a similar frequency, it has the effect of stimulating cells in certain areas of the brain, thus using this frequency of flashing light or sound to treat Alzheimer's disease. However, turning the light source on and off at a frequency of 35 Hz to 45 Hz can cause visual discomfort to the user's eyes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application proposes more lighting devices for generating gamma visual stimulation between 30 Hz and 65 Hz.

[0004] In one aspect of the present invention, the lighting device includes a controller and three light sources. The first light source has a first color temperature C1. The second light source has a second color temperature C2 less than C1. The third light source has a third color temperature C3 greater than C1. The controller is configured to turn on the first light source without strobing. The controller is also configured to alternately turn on the second light source and the third light source at a strobing frequency between 30 Hz and 65 Hz, thereby generating a stroboscopic light (emitted from the second light source and the third light source) with a combined color temperature close to C1. Note that C2 < C1 < C3, and the color temperature of the stroboscopic light is a linear combination of C2 and C3. The linear combination of C2 and C3 is equal to C1. There are different ways to achieve this. One way is to select C2 and C3 such that (50% × C2 + 50% × C3) = C1. For example, configure the first light source to be 4000K, emitting 1000 lm, the second light source to be 3500K, emitting 500 lm, and the third light source to be 4500K, emitting 500 lm. This will generate a stroboscopic light of 1000 lm with a color temperature of (50% × 3500K + 50% × 4500K) = 4000K. Another way is to select C2 and C3 such that (25% × C2 + 75% × C3) = C1. For example, configure the first light source to be 4000K, emitting 1000 lm, the second light source to be 3400K, emitting 250 lm, and the third light source to be 4200K, emitting 750 lm. This will generate a stroboscopic light of 1000 lm with a color temperature of (25% × 3400K + 75% × 4200K) = 4000K.

[0005] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust the ratio of the light output of the first light source to the light output of the stroboscopic light. In other words, for these embodiments, the ratio of the light output of the first light source to the light output of the stroboscopic light is adjustable. When the ratio of the light output of the first light source to the light output of the stroboscopic light exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., a ratio of 1 to 0.1), i.e., when the light output of the stroboscopic light is relatively small compared to the light output of the first light source, the stroboscopic flashes of the second light source and the third light source become less visible or even invisible to the user. The aforementioned threshold varies from person to person. The adjustability of the ratio of the light output of the first light source to the light output of the stroboscopic light enables each user to adjust this ratio according to their personal tolerance for visible flickering or their personal needs that may change from time to time. For the preventive treatment of Alzheimer's disease, the ratio of the light output of the first light source to the light output of the stroboscopic light can be set such that the stroboscopic flashes of the second light source and the third light source are invisible. For the treatment of advanced Alzheimer's disease, the ratio of the light output of the first light source to the light output of the stroboscopic light can be set such that the stroboscopic flashes of the second light source and the third light source are more visible.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first light source, the second light source, and the third light source include light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).

[0007] A recent study on microglia-mediated neuroinflammation and its link to the etiology of Alzheimer's disease through exosomes has shown that near-infrared wavelengths can penetrate the scalp and skull, and near-infrared exposure can reduce the level of amyloid-beta protein in the visual cortex (see https: / / www.nature.com / articles / s41377-021-00617-3). The same study also showed that 10Hz theta stimulation at near-infrared wavelengths can convert the M1 phenotype (inflammatory microglia) in the hippocampal region into the M2 phenotype (anti-inflammatory microglia), thereby inhibiting Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, the use of a near-infrared light source in the present invention would be beneficial. In some embodiments, the lighting device further includes a fourth light source that emits near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths, and the controller is configured to operate the fourth light source at an operating frequency F1 ≤ 65Hz. The F1 frequency can be set between 4Hz and 10Hz for generating theta stimulation, or set to 32.5Hz, 40Hz, or 65Hz for generating gamma stimulation to the user's brain.

[0008] In another aspect of the present invention, a lighting device includes: a controller, a first light source that emits a light output of amount LO1 (in lumens), and a second light source that emits a light output of amount LO2 (in lumens). The controller is configured to turn on the first light source and the second light source simultaneously, thereby generating a light output of amount LO1 + LO2. In addition, the controller is configured to operate the first light source at a first operating frequency F1 ≥ 50 Hz, and to operate the second light source at a second operating frequency F2, where F2 is at least 30 Hz greater than F1 but not more than 65 Hz. For example, F1 = 50 Hz and F2 = 90 Hz, or F1 = 50 Hz and F2 = 82.5 Hz, or F1 = 50 Hz and F2 = 115 Hz, or F1 = 80 Hz and F2 = 120 Hz. The light emitted by the first light source and the light emitted by the second light source are superimposed on each other, generating a superimposed light having a third operating frequency F3 = F2 - F1.

[0009] For illustration, Figure 2A shows a first light having an operating frequency F1 = 8 Hz and a second light having an operating frequency F2 = 12 Hz. The operating frequency of the superimposed light is F3 = 12 Hz – 8 Hz = 4 Hz, and its first cycle starts from 0 second to 0.25 second, the second cycle starts from 0.25 second to 0.5 second, and so on. Figure 2A shows the superposition of sine light waveforms. However, the present invention is not limited to using sine waveforms. Figure 3A and Figure 3B shows examples of the superposition of two other trapezoidal waveform lights. From Figure 3A and Figure 3B it can be seen that these superimposed trapezoidal waveforms also have an operating frequency of F3 = 12 Hz – 8 Hz = 4 Hz.

[0010] For the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, the preferred visual stimulation frequency is between 35 Hz and 45 Hz. Therefore, in some embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 to be between 35 Hz and 45 Hz, thereby generating a stimulation at this frequency on the CA1 hippocampal region, visual cortex, and / or prefrontal cortex of the subject being treated, thereby improving the cognitive ability of the subject being treated. Multiplying Figure 2A the F1 frequency and F2 frequency in by 10 times, that is, F1 = 80 Hz and F2 = 120 Hz, the operating frequency of the superimposed light will be F3 = 40 Hz, which is suitable for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

[0011] It is well known that visual stimulation at 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz has the effect of improving memory recall. Therefore, in some embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz, thereby generating a 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz stimulation on the CA3 hippocampal region of the user, thereby improving the memory recall of the user.

[0012] FromFigures 2A to 2D It can be seen that as the ratio of LO2 to LO1 gradually changes (e.g., by gradually decreasing LO1), at the critical ratio (of LO2 to LO1), even though the flicker at the F3 frequency of the superimposed light still exists, the user can no longer see the flicker of the superimposed light operating at the F3 frequency. Figure 2D This is a good example where the flicker of the superimposed light at the F3 frequency is difficult to see. The critical ratio of LO2 to LO1 varies from person to person and depends on the photosensitivity of each person's visual system. For the lighting device, it is beneficial to support the adjustability of the ratio of LO2 to LO1, so that sometimes the user can see the flicker of the superimposed light operating at the F3 frequency, and at other times, the user cannot see the flicker of the superimposed light operating at the F3 frequency. This function also allows each user to set personal preferences for the ratio of LO2 to LO1. Alternatively, each person can maximize the ratio of LO2 to LO1 to enhance the treatment of Alzheimer's disease or memory loss, or reduce the ratio of LO2 to LO1 for preventive treatment. Therefore, in some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust the ratio of LO2 to LO1 (or equivalently, LO1 to LO2). For example, the controller can set the ratio of LO2 to LO1 to 1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.25, etc. or any ratio therebetween.

[0013] The first light source and the second light source can have the same color temperature or different color temperatures. In some embodiments, the first light source and the second light source have the same color temperature. If the color temperatures of the first light source and the second light source are different, there is an effect of color temperature fusion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust the F3 frequency for different treatment needs. For example, the user can switch the F3 frequency between 40 Hz (for Alzheimer's disease treatment) and 32.5 Hz (for memory recall treatment).

[0015] In some embodiments, the first light source and the second light source include light emitting diodes (LEDs) or organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs).

[0016] In some embodiments, the lighting device further includes a third light source that emits near infrared (NIR) wavelengths, and the controller is configured to operate the third light source at a fourth frequency F4 ≤ 65 Hz. The F4 frequency can be set between 4 Hz and 10 Hz for θ stimulation, or set to 32.5 Hz, 40 Hz, or 65 Hz for gamma stimulation of the user's brain.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, a lighting device includes: a controller, a first light source that emits a light output of amount LO1 (in lumens), and a second light source that emits a light output of amount LO2 (in lumens). The controller is configured to turn on the first light source and the second light source simultaneously, thereby generating a light output of amount LO1 + LO2. Further, the controller is configured to operate the first light source at a first operating frequency F1 and operate the second light source at a second operating frequency F2 greater than F1. There are no limitations on the range of F1 and the range of the difference between F2 and F1. The following are some examples: (1) F1 = 40 Hz and F2 = 44 Hz, (2) F1 = 50 Hz and F2 = 90 Hz, (3) F1 = 50 Hz and F2 = 82.5 Hz, (4) F1 = 50 Hz and F2 = 115 Hz, and (5) F1 = 80 Hz and F2 = 120 Hz. The light emitted by the first light source and the light emitted by the second light source are superimposed on each other, generating a superimposed light having a third operating frequency F3 = F2 - F1. Further, the controller is configured to pause (turn off) one of the two light sources for a short time (referred to as the single light source duration) in each fixed period (referred to as the recalibration period) and increase the light output of the remaining operating light source to maintain the total light output of the lighting device at LO1 + LO2.

[0018] For example, when both light sources are operating, the controller can set LO1 = 500 lm at F1 = 40 Hz and set LO2 = 500 lm at F2 = 44 Hz. The controller can also set the recalibration period to 10 minutes and the single light source duration to 6 seconds. In this case, the controller turns off the second light source for 6 seconds every 10 minutes and increases LO1 to 1000 lm within these 6 seconds. After the single light source duration (i.e., 6 seconds), the controller resumes the operation of the lighting device to normal operation, i.e., LO1 = 500 lm at a frequency of F1 = 40 Hz and LO2 = 500 lm at a frequency of F2 = 44 Hz. The purpose of periodically (i.e., every 10 minutes) turning off one of the two light sources for a short time (i.e., 6 seconds) is to induce the user's brain to better recognize the F3 frequency of the superimposed light. This is because when both the F1 and F2 frequencies are recognized by the same region of the user's brain, due to the analog nature of the brain, the brain may sometimes be unable to perceive the F3 frequency. By deliberately turning off the second light source for a short period of time, the brain can be phase-locked with the F1 frequency of the first light source. Then, when the second light source is turned on at the F2 frequency, the brain can now perceive the frequency F3 of the superimposed light based on its reference to the F1 frequency. Repeating such a process (periodically turning off the second light source briefly) will recalibrate the user's brain to detect and maintain its recognition of the F3 frequency of the superimposed light.

[0019] In some embodiments, the recalibration period is between 1 and 60 minutes. In practice, a recalibration period of 5 to 10 minutes is preferably selected. In some embodiments, the single light source duration is between 5 and 20 seconds. In practice, a single light source duration of 6 - 10 seconds is preferably selected.

[0020] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to set F1 between 35 Hz and 45 Hz. In some other embodiments, the controller is configured to set F1 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz. Frequencies between 30 Hz and 65 Hz have the effect of triggering brain gamma stimulation.

[0021] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 between 35 Hz and 45 Hz. In some other embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz. In the case where F1 = 40 Hz and F2 = 72.5 Hz, F3 = 32.5 Hz. In other words, this scenario is an embodiment where both frequencies 40 Hz and 32.5 Hz exist, and is applicable to the simultaneous treatment of Alzheimer's disease and memory loss.

[0022] In some embodiments, the controller sets F3 between 3 Hz and 10 Hz. It is known that the simulation of 3 Hz to 10 Hz triggers theta stimulation of the brain and is beneficial for the treatment of other degenerative brain diseases. When gamma frequency (e.g., 40 Hz) and theta frequency (e.g., 4 Hz) coexist, it is known to produce so-called cross-frequency coupling (CFC), which is beneficial for improving the treatment effect of degenerative brain diseases. An embodiment supporting the CFC effect is to make the controller set F1 = 40 Hz and F2 = 44 Hz, so that F3 = 4 Hz. Through this embodiment, F1 provides gamma stimulation to the brain while F3 produces theta stimulation to the brain.

[0023] From Figures 2A to 2D It can be seen that as the ratio of LO2 to LO1 gradually changes (e.g., by gradually decreasing LO1), then at the critical ratio (of LO2 to LO1), even though the flicker of the superimposed light at the F3 frequency still exists, the user can no longer see the flicker of the superimposed light operating at the F3 frequency. Figure 2DThis is a very good example. The flicker of the superimposed light at the F3 frequency is very difficult to see. The critical ratio of LO2 to LO1 varies from person to person, depending on the photosensitivity of each person's visual system. For a lighting device, it is beneficial to support the adjustability of the LO2 to LO1 ratio, so that sometimes the user can see the flicker of the superimposed light operating at the F3 frequency, and at other times, the user cannot see the flicker of the superimposed light operating at the F3 frequency. This function also allows each user to set personal preferences for the LO2 to LO1 ratio. Alternatively, each person can maximize the LO2 to LO1 ratio to enhance the treatment of Alzheimer's disease or memory loss, or reduce the LO2 to LO1 ratio for preventive treatment. Therefore, in some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust the ratio of LO2 to LO1 (or equivalently, LO1 to LO2). For example, the controller can set the ratio of LO1 to LO2 to 1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.25, etc. or any ratio therebetween.

[0024] The first light source and the second light source may have the same color temperature or different color temperatures. In some embodiments, the first light source and the second light source have the same color temperature. If the color temperatures of the first light source and the second light source are different, there is an effect of color temperature fusion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust the F3 frequency for different treatment needs. For example, the user can switch the F3 frequency between 4 Hz (θ stimulation), 32.5 Hz (for memory recall treatment), and 40 Hz (for Alzheimer's disease treatment).

[0026] In some embodiments, the first light source and the second light source include light emitting diodes (LEDs) or organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs).

[0027] In some embodiments, the lighting device further includes a third light source that emits near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths, and the controller is configured to operate the third light source at a fourth frequency F4 ≤ 65 Hz. The F4 frequency can be set between 3 Hz and 10 Hz for θ stimulation, or set to 32.5 Hz, 40 Hz, or 65 Hz to produce gamma stimulation to the user's brain.

[0028] In another aspect of the present invention, the lighting device includes a controller, a first light source that emits near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths, and a second light source that emits visible light wavelengths. The first light source may or may not emit visible light wavelengths, but preferably it emits only near-infrared wavelengths and does not emit visible light wavelengths. Similarly, the second light source may or may not emit near-infrared wavelengths, but preferably it emits only visible light wavelengths and does not emit near-infrared wavelengths. The controller is configured to turn on the first light source and the second light source simultaneously. In addition, the controller is configured to operate the first light source at a first operating frequency F1 ≤ 65 Hz and operate the second light source at a second operating frequency F2 greater than F1. Here are some examples: (1) F1 = 10 Hz and F2 = 50 Hz, (2) F1 = 40 Hz and F2 = 50 Hz, and (3) F1 = 65 Hz and F2 = 95 Hz. In addition, the light emitted by the first light source and the light emitted by the second light source are superimposed on each other, resulting in superimposed light having a third operating frequency F3 = F2 - F1.

[0029] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to set F1 to be between 3 Hz and 10 Hz. For example, F1 = 4 Hz and F2 = 44 Hz, or F1 = 10 Hz and F2 = 50 Hz. If the first light source emits only near-infrared wavelengths, its light is invisible to the user, so the user does not perceive flicker at any F1 frequency. In some other embodiments, the controller is configured to set F1 to be between 35 Hz and 45 Hz. In addition, in some other embodiments, the controller is configured to set F1 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

[0030] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 to be between 3 Hz and 10 Hz. In some other embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 to be between 35 Hz and 45 Hz. In addition, in some other embodiments, the controller is configured to set F3 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

[0031] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to adjust the F3 frequency for different treatments. For example, the user can switch the F3 frequency between 4 Hz, 10 Hz (for generating θ stimulation), 32.5 Hz (for memory recall treatment), and 40 Hz (for Alzheimer's treatment).

[0032] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to briefly pause (turn off) the first light source (referred to as the single light source duration) every fixed period (referred to as the recalibration period). During the single light source duration, since the near-infrared light source does not contribute to the light output of the lighting device, it is not necessary to increase the light output of the second light source. Nevertheless, in order to recalibrate the user's brain detection and maintain its recognition of the F3 frequency of the superimposed light, the recalibration period and the single light source duration may still be necessary.

[0033] In some embodiments, the recalibration period is between 1 and 60 minutes. In practice, a recalibration period of 5 to 10 minutes is preferred. In some embodiments, the single light source duration is between 5 and 20 seconds. In practice, a single light source duration of between 6 - 10 seconds is preferred.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first light source and the second light source include light emitting diodes (LEDs) or organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The drawings are provided to assist in further understanding the content of this patent application and form a part of the content of this patent application. The drawings illustrate multiple embodiments of this patent application and, together with the following detailed description, are used to explain the principles of this patent application. It should be realized that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, as some components may be shown out of proportion to their actual implementation dimensions in order to clearly illustrate the concepts of this patent application.

[0036] Figure 1 Schematically shows an embodiment of the present application with three LED light sources;

[0037] Figure 2A 、 2B 、2C and 2D schematically show the superposition of two sine light waveforms with F1 = 8Hz and F2 = 12Hz, and the ratios of LO2 to LO1 are 1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.25, 1:0.1, as Figure 2A 、 2B shown in 2C and 2D;

[0038] Figure 3A and Figure 3B schematically shows the superposition of two trapezoidal light waveforms with F1 = 8Hz and F2 = 12Hz. In Figure 3A , the conduction state duration of the two waveforms is shorter, while in Figure 3B , the conduction state duration of the two waveforms is longer;

[0039] Figure 4 Schematically shows an embodiment of the table lamp form of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0040] Overview

[0041] The following describes various different implementations of the present invention and related creative concepts. However, the present invention is not limited to any specific implementation, and the various embodiments specifically discussed in this specification are mainly for illustrative purposes. For example, the various concepts discussed in this specification can be appropriately implemented in various lighting devices with different form factors.

[0042] The lighting device includes a controller and three light sources, each having a different color temperature. The controller alternately turns on the second light source and the third light source at a stroboscopic frequency between 30 Hz and 65 Hz, thereby generating stroboscopic light (emitted from the second light source and the third light source), the combined color temperature of which is close to the color temperature of the first light source. Another lighting device includes a controller and two light sources. The first light source and the second light source operate at different frequencies, generating superimposed light whose operating frequency is equal to the difference between the two frequencies. By setting the third frequency to 32.5, 40, or 65 Hz, the lighting device triggers the user's visual stimulation, thereby treating Alzheimer's disease or memory recall disorders. Another variant of the present application is to periodically turn off one of the two light sources for a short time to induce the user's brain to better recognize the frequency of the superimposed light.

[0043] Embodiment

[0044] Figure 1 is Embodiment 100 of the lighting device of the present application. It includes a controller 101 and three light sources 102, 103, and 104. The first light source 102 is a 4000K LED, the second light source 103 is a 3500K LED, and the third light source 104 is a 4500K LED. The controller 101 turns on the first light source 102 without strobing, with a light output of 1000 lm. The maximum light output of the second light source 103 is 500 lm, and the maximum light output of the third light source 104 is 500 lm. The controller 101 alternately turns on the second light source 103 and the third light source 104 at a stroboscopic frequency between 30 Hz and 65 Hz, generating stroboscopic light with an output of 1000 lm and a mixed color temperature of (3500K + 4500K) / 2 = 4000K. When the stroboscopic frequency is set to 40 Hz, Embodiment 100 can be used to treat Alzheimer's disease. When the stroboscopic frequency is set to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz, Embodiment 100 can be used to treat memory loss disorders.

[0045] Although not shown, the controller 101 may be configured to adjust the ratio of the light output of the first light source 102 to the light output of the stroboscopic light (from the second light source 103 and the third light source 104) by reducing the light outputs of the second light source 103 and the third light source 104. When the ratio is 1:1, the stroboscopic light of the second light source 103 and the third light source 104 is highly visible to the user. When the ratio is adjusted to 1:0.5 (each of the second light source 103 and the third light source 104 generates 250 lm), 1:0.25 (each of the second light source 103 and the third light source 104 generates 125 lm), or 1:0.1 (each of the second light source 103 and the third light source 104 generates 50 lm), the stroboscopic light of the second light source 103 and the third light source 104 becomes less visible and even invisible to the user. Depending on whether the user needs preventive treatment or advanced treatment for Alzheimer's disease (or memory loss), the ratio of the light output of the first light source 102 to the light output of the stroboscopic light can be adjusted accordingly by the controller 101.

[0046] A variant of Example 100 is to add a fourth light source comprising an 850 nm LED (which does not emit any visible light wavelength). The controller 101 can be modified to operate the 850 nm LED light source at 10 Hz. Given that the 850 nm wavelength is invisible, the user of this variant of Example 100 will not see any flickering at 10 Hz and thus benefits from receiving theta stimulation for treating certain degenerative brain diseases.

[0047] Figure 4 is an example in the form of a table lamp 200 of the lighting device of the present application. The table lamp 200 has a housing 201 for accommodating a filter 202, a fan 205, a first LED light source 203, and a second LED light source 204. The LED light sources 203 and 204 have the same color temperature, namely 4000K. The controller is hidden inside the base 206 and is configured to provide multiple functions: adjusting the ratio of LO2 to LO1 (by the touch button 207), dimming (by the touch button 208), fan operation 209 (by the touch button 209), and adjusting the F3 frequency (by the touch button 210 that displays "40 Hz / 32.5 Hz").

[0048] The controller (hidden inside the base 206) operates the second LED light source 204 at 120 Hz and the first LED light source 203 at 80 Hz or 87.5 Hz, depending on the setting of the button 210. The user can select 40 Hz or 32.5 Hz as the F3 frequency through this button. If the button 210 is set to 40 Hz, the controller operates the first LED light source 203 at 80 Hz. If the button 210 is set to 32.5 Hz, the controller operates the first LED light source 203 at 87.5 Hz. The touch button 210 is set to 40 Hz for treating Alzheimer's disease and 32.5 Hz for treating memory loss.

[0049] By default, the light output LO1 of the first LED light source 203 is 300 lm, and the light output LO2 of the second LED light source 204 is also 300 lm. The button 207 is used to set the ratio of LO2 to LO1 to 1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.25, or 1:0.1. There are two different ways to implement these ratios. A relatively simple method is as follows:

[0050] Ratio 1:1: LO2 = 300 lm, LO1 = 300 lm

[0051] Ratio 1:0.5: LO2 = 300 lm, LO1 = 150 lm

[0052] Ratio 1:0.25: LO2 = 300 lm, LO1 = 75 lm

[0053] Ratio 1:0.1: LO2 = 300 lm, LO1 = 30 lm

[0054] This method is easy to implement, but the side effect is that the total light output of the table lamp will decrease. Another relatively complex method is as follows:

[0055] Ratio 1:1: LO2 = 300 lm, LO1 = 300 lm

[0056] Ratio 1:0.5: LO2 = 400 lm, LO1 = 200 lm

[0057] Ratio 1:0.25: LO2 = 480 lm, LO1 = 120 lm

[0058] Ratio 1:0.1: LO2 = 545.5 lm, LO1 = 54.5 lm

[0059] Using the second method, regardless of the setting of button 207, the total light output of the table lamp remains at 600 lm. For most people, a LO2 to LO1 ratio of 1:1 results in visible flicker at 40 Hz or 32.5 Hz. When button 207 sets the ratio of LO2 to LO1 to 1:0.5 or 1:0.25, some people may not see the flicker of the light output of the table lamp at 40 Hz or 32.5 Hz, even though such flicker is clearly present in the light output of the table lamp. When button 207 sets the ratio of LO2 to LO1 to 1:0.1, most people cannot perceive the flicker of the light output of the table lamp at 40 Hz or 32.5 Hz. Therefore, the table lamp enables each user to set the ratio of LO2 to LO1 by button 207 according to personal preferences or needs (e.g., select a ratio of LO2 to LO1 of 1:0.25 for preventive treatment, or select 1:1 for intensive treatment).

[0060] The dimming button 208 dims LO1 and LO2 proportionally at the same time, so as to maintain the ratio of LO2 to LO1 at any dimming level.

[0061] For table lamp embodiment 200, tunable color temperature LEDs can be used for the first LED light source 203 and the second LED light source 204. In this case, the hidden controller can be enhanced to support the function of adjusting the color temperature, so that the user can change the color temperature of the LED light sources 203 and 204 at the same time, and always keep the color temperatures of the first LED light source 203 and the second LED light source 204 the same.

[0062] Embodiment 200 uses LED light sources to implement the first light source and the second light source. In another embodiment with different form factors (e.g., having a curved illumination surface), compared with LEDs, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) are preferred because of their great flexibility in form factors.

[0063] The implementation of the controller (hidden within the base 206) of Example 200 can be modified such that the operation of the second LED light source 204 will be paused for 10 seconds every 10 minutes, and within these 10 seconds, the light output of the first LED light source 203 will be increased to 600 lm. Moreover, the modified example can support three operation modes. In the first mode, the modified controller will operate the first LED light source 203 at F1 = 40 Hz and the second LED light source 204 at F2 = 44 Hz, thereby generating superimposed light with a frequency of F3 = 4 Hz. In this mode, this example provides a gamma stimulation at F1 = 40 Hz and a theta stimulation at F3 = 4 Hz. In the second mode, the modified controller will operate the first LED light source 203 at 40 Hz and the second LED light source 204 at 72.5 Hz. In this mode, this example provides gamma stimulations at F1 = 40 Hz and F3 = 32.5 Hz. In the third mode, the modified controller will operate the first LED light source 203 at 50 Hz and the second LED light source 204 at 90 Hz. In this mode, this example provides only a gamma stimulation at F3 = 40 Hz. The modified controller can be switched between these three modes via the touch button 210:

[0064] Mode 1: F1 = 40 Hz, F2 = 44 Hz → F3 = 4 Hz (with a gamma stimulation at 40 Hz and a theta stimulation at 4 Hz)

[0065] Mode 2: F1 = 40 Hz, F2 = 72.5 Hz → F3 = 32.5 Hz (with two gamma stimulations at 40 Hz and 32.5 Hz)

[0066] Mode 3: F1 = 50 Hz, F2 = 90 Hz → F3 = 40 Hz (with only one gamma stimulation at 40 Hz)

[0067] For any of the three modes, the button 207 can be used to set the ratio of LO1 to LO2 to 1:1, 1:0.5, 1:0.25, or 1:0.1. During the single-light-source duration of the recalibration cycle, regardless of the ratio of LO1 to LO2, only the first LED light source 203 will light up at 600 lm. During non-single-light-source durations, the modified controller supports the following ratios of LO1 to LO2:

[0068] Ratio 1:1: LO1 = 300 lm, LO2 = 300 lm

[0069] Ratio 1:0.5: LO1 = 400 lm, LO2 = 200 lm

[0070] Ratio 1:0.25: LO1 = 480 lm, LO2 = 120 lm

[0071] Ratio 1:0.1: LO1 = 545.5 lm, LO2 = 54.5 lm

[0072] A variant of Example 200 is to add a third light source that includes an 850 nm LED (which emits no visible light wavelengths). The controller (hidden within the base 206) can be modified to operate the 850 nm LED light source at 10 Hz. Given that the 850 nm wavelength is invisible, the user of this variant of Example 200 will not see any flickering at 10 Hz and thus gain the benefits of receiving θ stimulation for treating certain degenerative brain diseases.

[0073] Another variant of Example 200 is to change the first light source 203 from a 4000K LED to an 850 nm LED (which emits no visible light wavelengths). The controller for this variant (hidden within the base 206) can be modified to operate the 850 nm LED light source 203 at 10 Hz and the second LED light source 204 at 50 Hz. In this case, F1 = 10 Hz and F3 = 50 Hz – 10 Hz = 40 Hz. Alternatively, the controller can be modified to operate the 850 nm LED light source 203 at 40 Hz and the second LED light source 204 at 50 Hz. In this case, F1 = 40 Hz and F3 = 50 Hz – 40 Hz = 10 Hz. Whether F1 = 10 Hz and F3 = 40 Hz or F1 = 40 Hz and F3 = 10 Hz, both gamma stimulation and θ stimulation are present simultaneously, thus creating CFC, which is beneficial for better treating degenerative brain diseases. Using an 850 nm LED, there is no flickering at either 10 Hz or 40 Hz.

[0074] Other and alternative implementation descriptions

[0075] Although these techniques have been described in some application - specific language, it should be understood that the claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or applications described herein. Instead, the specific features and examples are disclosed only as non - limiting example forms for implementing these techniques.

[0076] In this application, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, "X utilizes A or B" is intended to represent any natural inclusive arrangement. That is, if X utilizes A, X utilizes B, or X utilizes both A and B, then in any of the foregoing cases, "X utilizes A or B" is satisfied. Additionally, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context that it refers to the singular form, the "a" or "an" in this application generally should be construed as "one or more".

Claims

1. An illumination device, comprising: A controller; A first light source having a first color temperature C1; A second light source having a second color temperature C2 smaller than C1; And A third light source having a third color temperature C3 larger than C1; Wherein, The controller is configured to turn on the first light source without strobing, The controller is configured to alternately turn on the second light source and the third light source at a strobing frequency between 30 Hz and 65 Hz, so as to generate a strobing light originating from the second light source and the third light source and having a combined color temperature close to C1.

2. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust the ratio of the first light output of the first light source to the second light output of the strobing light.

3. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first light source, the second light source and the third light source includes a light emitting diode or an organic light emitting diode.

4. The lighting device according to claim 1, further comprising a fourth light source configured to emit near-infrared wavelengths, wherein, The controller is configured to operate a fourth light source at an operating frequency ≤65 Hz.

5. An illumination device, comprising: A controller; A first light source that emits a light output of an amount LO1 in lumens per unit; And A second light source that emits a light output of an amount LO2 in lumens per unit; Wherein, The controller is configured to turn on the first light source and the second light source simultaneously to generate a light output of an amount LO1 + LO2 from the illumination device, The controller is configured to operate the first light source at a first operating frequency F1 ≥ 50 Hz, The controller is configured to operate the second light source at a second operating frequency F2, and F2 is at least 30 Hz greater than F1 but not more than 65 Hz, The first light emitted by the first light source and the second light emitted by the second light are superimposed on each other to generate a superimposed light having a third operating frequency F3 = F2 - F1.

6. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 to be between 35 Hz and 45 Hz.

7. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

8. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust the ratio of LO2 to LO1 or the ratio of LO1 to LO2.

9. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, The first light source and the second light source have the same color temperature.

10. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust F3.

11. The lighting device according to claim 5, wherein, At least one of the first light source and the second light source includes a light emitting diode or an organic light emitting diode.

12. The lighting device according to claim 5, further comprising a third light source configured to emit near-infrared wavelengths, wherein, The controller is configured to operate a third light source at a fourth operating frequency F4 ≤ 65 Hz.

13. An illumination device, comprising A controller; A first light source that emits a light output of an amount LO1 in lumens per unit; and A second light source that emits a light output of an amount LO2 in lumens per unit; Wherein, The controller is configured to turn on the first light source and the second light source simultaneously to generate a combined light output of an amount LO1 + LO2 from the illumination device, The controller is configured to operate the first light source at a first operating frequency F1, The controller is configured to operate the second light source at a second operating frequency F2 greater than F1, The first light emitted by the first light source and the second light emitted by the second light are superimposed on each other to generate a superimposed light having a third operating frequency F3 = F2 - F1, and The controller is configured to, within a fixed period of each recalibration cycle, cause one of the two light sources to pause briefly or turn off the single light source for a duration, and increase the corresponding light output of the other of the two light sources to maintain the total light output of the illumination device at LO1 + LO2.

14. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The recalibration period is between 1 and 60 minutes.

15. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The single light source duration is between 5 and 20 seconds.

16. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to set F1 between 35 Hz and 45 Hz.

17. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to set F1 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

18. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 between 35 Hz and 45 Hz.

19. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

20. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 between 3 Hz and 10 Hz.

21. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust the ratio of LO2 to LO1 or the ratio of LO1 to LO2.

22. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The first light source and the second light source have the same color temperature.

23. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust F3.

24. The lighting device according to claim 13, wherein, At least one of the first light source and the second light source includes a light emitting diode or an organic light emitting diode.

25. The lighting device according to claim 13, further comprising a third light source configured to emit near-infrared wavelengths, wherein, The controller is configured to operate the third light source at a fourth operating frequency F4 ≤ 65 Hz.

26. A lighting device, comprising: A controller; A first light source configured to emit near-infrared wavelengths; And A second light source configured to emit visible light wavelengths; Wherein, The controller is configured to turn on the first light source and the second light source simultaneously, The controller is configured to operate the first light source at a first operating frequency F1 ≤ 65 Hz, The controller is configured to operate the second light source at a second operating frequency F2 greater than F1, and The first light emitted by the first light source and the second light emitted by the second light source are superimposed on each other to generate a superimposed radiation having a third operating frequency F3 = F2 - F1.

27. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to set F1 between 3 Hz and 10 Hz.

28. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to set F1 between 35 Hz and 45 Hz.

29. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to set F1 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

30. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 between 3 Hz and 10 Hz.

31. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 between 35 Hz and 45 Hz.

32. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to set F3 to 32.5 Hz or 65 Hz.

33. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to adjust F3.

34. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, The controller is configured to cause the first light source to be short-term paused or turned off for a single light source duration within a fixed period of each recalibration period.

35. The lighting device according to claim 34, wherein, The recalibration period is between 1 and 60 minutes.

36. The lighting device according to claim 34, wherein, The single light source duration is between 5 and 20 seconds.

37. The lighting device according to claim 26, wherein, At least one of the first light source and the second light source includes a light emitting diode or an organic light emitting diode.

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