Laser-phosphor light source with increased lifetime

Abstract

The invention provides a light generating system (1000) comprising a first light generating means (110), a second light generating means (120), a light emitting element (210), a diffuser element (410), a beam direction control system (500) and a control system (300) wherein: (A) the first light generating means (110) is configured to generate a first beam (B1) of first device light (111) wherein the first light generating means (110) comprises a first solid state laser light source (10); (B) a second light generating means (120) configured to generate a second beam (B2) of second device light (121), wherein the second light generating means (120) comprises a second solid state laser light source (20); (C) the light emitting element (210) comprises a luminescent material (200), wherein the luminescent material (200) is capable of converting the first 10 device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) received by the luminescent material (200) into luminescent material light (201); (D) the diffuser element (410) is configured to diffuse the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) received by the diffuser element (410), thereby providing diffused light (411); (E) the beam direction control system (500) is configured in light-receiving relationship with the first light-generating 15 device (110) and the second light-generating device (120); (G) the control system (300) is configured to control the first light generating device (110), the second light generating device (120) and the beam direction control system (500); and (H) the light generating system (1000) is configured to generate (white) system light (1001).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a light generating system and a lighting device comprising such a light generating system. Background Art

[0002] Laser-phosphor-based stage lighting engines are known in the art. For example, WO2022143318 describes a light-emitting device comprising a first light source, a second light source, a dichroic mirror, a wavelength conversion device, a first optical path adjustment device or a second optical path adjustment device, and a first scattering optical system. The use of the first scattering optical system can enhance the light mixing effect of the output light. The light emitted by the first light source is entirely used to excite the wavelength conversion device.

[0003] EP3290992 discloses an illuminator comprising a first light source unit that outputs a first light beam, a second light source unit that outputs a second light beam, a polarization combining element that combines the first and second light beams, a polarization state conversion element into which the combined light from the polarization combining element is incident, a polarization separation element that separates the combined light that passes through the polarization state conversion element into first light and second light, and a wavelength conversion element that converts the first light into third light. The illuminator outputs the second light and the third light as illumination light. The polarization state conversion element comprises a plurality of retardation elements that are separated from each other and arranged along a first direction. The first light source unit and the second light source unit are configured such that a plurality of first regions through which the plurality of first light beams pass and a plurality of second regions through which the plurality of second light beams pass are alternately arranged along the first direction in the polarization state conversion element. Summary of the Invention

[0004] High-brightness light sources can be used in a variety of applications, including spotlights, stage lighting, headlights, home and office lighting, and automotive lighting. For this purpose, laser-phosphor technology can be used, in which a laser provides the laser light and a remote phosphor converts the laser light into converted light. A relatively simple way to use a laser to generate white light is to use a blue laser in combination with phosphor-converted light to generate white light. Even though the light source generating (white) light can show a time-dependent power output, it seems desirable to provide (white) light with a spectral power distribution that is relatively consistent over time.

[0005] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative light generating system which preferably further at least partially obviates one or more of the above disadvantages. An object of the present invention may be to overcome or ameliorate at least one disadvantage of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0006] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a light generating system comprising a first light generating device, a second light generating device, a light emitting element, a diffuser element, a beam direction control system and a control system. In an embodiment, the first light generating device may be configured to generate a first beam (B1) of a first device light. In particular, the first light generating device may comprise a first solid-state (laser) light source. Further, in an embodiment, the second light generating device may be configured to generate a second beam (B2) of a second device light. In particular, the second light generating device may comprise a second solid-state (laser) light source. In an embodiment, the light emitting element comprises a luminescent material. In particular, the luminescent material may enable the first device light and / or the second device light received by the luminescent material to be converted into luminescent material light. Further, in an embodiment, the diffuser element may be configured to diffuse the first device light and / or the second device light received by the diffuser element, thereby providing diffused light. However, in an embodiment, the beam direction control system may be configured to be in a light receiving relationship with the first light generating device and the second light generating device. In a specific embodiment, the beam direction control system can be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct a first pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a first pump intensity (Ip1) to the light emitting element, and (ii) direct a first diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct a second pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light emitting element, and (ii) direct a second diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) to the diffuser element. In an embodiment, the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second pump intensity (Ip2) can have different relative contributions of the first device light and / or the second device light. In an embodiment, the first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) and the second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) may have different relative contributions of the first device light and / or the second device light. In particular, in an embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device, and the beam direction control system. In an embodiment, the light generating system is particularly configured to generate (white) system light that may include luminescent material light and diffuse light.Therefore, in an embodiment, the present invention provides a light generating system comprising a first light generating device, a second light generating device, a light emitting element, a diffuser element, a beam direction control system and a control system, wherein: (A) the first light generating device can be configured to generate a first beam (B1) of a first device light, wherein the first light generating device can include a first solid-state laser light source; (B) the second light generating device can be configured to generate a second beam (B2) of a second device light, wherein the second light generating device can include a second solid-state laser light source; (C) the light emitting element can include a light emitting material, wherein the light emitting material can enable the first device light and / or the second device light received by the light emitting material to be converted into light emitting material light; (D) the diffuser element can be configured to diffuse the first device light and / or the second device light received by the diffuser element, thereby providing diffused light; (E) the beam direction control system can be configured to be in a light receiving relationship with the first light generating device and the second light generating device, and is configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) convert the first device light and / or the second device light having a first pump intensity (Ip) into a first pump intensity (Ip) of the first device light and / or the second device light; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) directing a second pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light with a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light emitting element, and (ii) directing a first diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light with a first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) directing a second pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light with a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light emitting element, and (ii) directing a second diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light with a second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) to the diffuser element. to the diffuser element; (F) the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second pump intensity (Ip2) can have different relative contributions of the first device light and / or the second device light; and the first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) and the second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) can have different relative contributions of the first device light and / or the second device light; (G) the control system can be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device and the beam direction control system; and (H) the light generating system can be configured to generate system light including luminescent material light and diffuse light.

[0007] With the present invention, high-intensity white light can be provided. Furthermore, the present invention can enable the generation of high-intensity light with a relatively stable color point, even when, for example, one of the light sources degrades over time due to high (power) loads. Furthermore, embodiments can allow relatively safe operation.

[0008] As mentioned above, the present invention provides a light generating system, in embodiments comprising a first light generating device, a second light generating device, a luminescent material, a diffuser element, a beam direction control system and a control system. Embodiments of these elements are described in more detail below.

[0009] The system may include a first light generating device and a second light generating device. Each light generating device is configured to generate a light beam using a respective light source. The respective light source may be a solid-state light source, such as a laser, an LED, or a superluminescent diode. In particular, in embodiments, the light generating device may include a laser. In particular, in other embodiments, the light generating device may include a superluminescent diode. In other embodiments, the light generating device may include an LED. Embodiments of the light source are described below.

[0010] The term "light source" can, in principle, refer to any light source known in the art. It can be a conventional (tungsten) light bulb, a low-pressure mercury lamp, a high-pressure mercury lamp, a fluorescent lamp, or an LED (light-emitting diode). In specific embodiments, the light source includes a solid-state LED light source (such as an LED or a laser diode (or "diode laser")). The term "light source" can also refer to multiple light sources, such as 2 to 2000 (solid-state) LED light sources. Therefore, the term LED can also refer to multiple LEDs. Furthermore, in embodiments, the term "light source" can also refer to so-called chip-on-board (COB) light sources. The term "COB" specifically refers to an LED chip in the form of a semiconductor chip that is neither enclosed nor connected, but directly mounted on a substrate (such as a PCB). Therefore, multiple light-emitting semiconductor light sources can be arranged on the same substrate. In embodiments, a COB is multiple LED chips configured together as a single lighting module. The light source can have a light escape surface. With reference to conventional light sources such as light bulbs or fluorescent lamps, this can be the outer surface of a glass or quartz envelope. For example, in the case of an LED, this can be the LED die, or when a resin is applied to the LED die, the outer surface of the resin. In principle, it can also be the end of an optical fiber. The term escape surface particularly relates to that part of the light source from which the light actually leaves or escapes. The light source is configured to provide a light beam. This light beam (therefore) escapes from the light exit surface of the light source.

[0011] Likewise, the light generating device may comprise a light escape surface, such as an end window.Furthermore, also, the light generating system may comprise a light escape surface, such as an end window.

[0012] The term "light source" may refer to a semiconductor light emitting device, such as a light emitting diode (LED), a resonant cavity light emitting diode (RCLED), a vertical cavity laser diode (VCSEL), an edge emitting laser, etc. The term "light source" may also refer to an organic light emitting diode (OLED), such as a passive matrix organic light emitting diode (PMOLED) or an active matrix organic light emitting diode (AMOLED). In specific embodiments, the light source comprises a solid-state light source (such as an LED or a laser diode). In embodiments, the light source comprises an LED (light emitting diode). The terms "light source" or "solid-state light source" may also refer to a superluminescent diode (SLED).

[0013] The term LED may also refer to a plurality of LEDs.

[0014] The term "light source" may also relate to a plurality of (substantially identical (or different)) light sources, such as 2 to 2000 solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the light source may comprise one or more micro-optical elements (micro-lens arrays) located downstream of a single solid-state light source (such as an LED) or downstream of a plurality of solid-state light sources (i.e., shared by a plurality of LEDs, for example). In embodiments, the light source may comprise an LED with on-chip optics. In embodiments, the light source comprises a pixelated single LED (with or without optics) (in embodiments providing on-chip beam steering).

[0015] In an embodiment, the light source can be configured to provide a primary radiation that is used such as, for example, a blue light source (e.g., a blue LED) or a green light source (e.g., a green LED) and a red light source (e.g., a red LED). Such LEDs, which may not include a luminescent material ("phosphor"), may be indicated as direct color LEDs.

[0016] However, in other embodiments, the light source can be configured to provide primary radiation, and part of the primary radiation is converted into secondary radiation. The secondary radiation can be based on the conversion of the luminescent material. Therefore, the secondary radiation can also be indicated as luminescent material radiation. In an embodiment, the luminescent material can be composed of the light source, such as an LED having a luminescent material layer or having a dome including luminescent material. Such an LED can be indicated as a phosphor-converted LED or PC LED (phosphor-converted LED). In other embodiments, the luminescent material can be configured at a certain distance from the light source ("remote"), such as an LED having a luminescent material layer that is not in physical contact with the LED die. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the light source can be a light source that emits at least light with a wavelength selected from the range of 380 to 470 nm during operation. However, other wavelengths may also be possible. This light can be used in part by the luminescent material.

[0017] In embodiments, the light generating device may include a luminescent material. In embodiments, the light generating device may include a PCLED. In other embodiments, the light generating device may include a direct LED (i.e., without a phosphor). In embodiments, the light generating device may include a laser device, such as a laser diode. In embodiments, the light generating device may include a superluminescent diode. Thus, in specific embodiments, the light source may be selected from the group consisting of a laser diode and a superluminescent diode. In other embodiments, the light source may include an LED.

[0018] The light source may in particular be configured to generate a source light having an optical axis (O), (beam shape) and a spectral power distribution. In an embodiment, the source light may comprise one or more bands, having a bandwidth known for the laser.

[0019] The term "light source" may (thus) refer to such a light-generating element (such as, for example, a solid-state light source) or, for example, to the packaging of a light-generating element (such as a solid-state light source) and one or more luminescent materials, including elements and (other) optical devices such as lenses and collimators. A light converter element ("converter element" or "converter") may include luminescent materials, including elements. For example, such a solid-state light source (such as a blue LED) is a light source. The combination of a solid-state light source (as a light-generating element) and a light converter element (such as a blue LED and a light converter element) optically coupled to the solid-state light source may also be a light source (but may also be indicated as a light-generating device). Thus, a white LED is a light source (but may also be indicated as a (white) light-generating device, for example).

[0020] The term "light source" herein may also refer to light sources including solid state light sources, such as LEDs or laser diodes or superluminescent diodes.

[0021] In embodiments, the term "light source" may (therefore) also refer to a light source that is (also) based on light conversion, such as a light source in combination with a luminescent converter material. Thus, the term "light source" may also refer to a combination of an LED and a luminescent material configured to convert at least part of the LED radiation, or to a combination of a (diode) laser and a luminescent material configured to convert at least part of the (diode) laser radiation.

[0022] In embodiments, the term "light source" may also refer to a combination of a light source (e.g., an LED) and an optical filter that can modify the spectral power distribution of the light generated by the light source. In particular, the term "light generating device" may be used to address the light source and other (optical components), such as filters and / or beam shaping elements.

[0023] The phrases "different light sources" or "a plurality of different light sources" and similar phrases may refer to a plurality of solid-state light sources selected from at least two different bins in embodiments. Similarly, the phrases "the same light source" or "a plurality of the same light sources" and similar phrases may refer to a plurality of solid-state light sources selected from the same bin in embodiments.

[0024] The terms "solid-state light source" or "solid-state material light source" and similar terms may particularly denote a semiconductor light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED), a diode laser or a superluminescent diode.

[0025] The term "laser light source" particularly refers to a laser. Such a laser can particularly be configured to generate device light having one or more wavelengths in the UV, visible, or infrared, particularly having a wavelength selected from the spectral wavelength range of 200 to 2000 nm, such as 300 to 1500 nm. The term "laser" particularly refers to a device that emits light by an optical amplification process based on stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation.

[0026] In particular, in embodiments, the term "laser" may refer to a solid-state laser. In specific embodiments, the term "laser" or "laser light source" or similar terms refers to a laser diode (or diode laser).

[0027] Thus, in an embodiment, the light source comprises a laser light source. In an embodiment, the term "laser" or "solid-state laser" or "solid-state material laser" may refer to cesium-doped lithium strontium (or calcium) aluminum fluoride (Ce:LiSAF, Ce:LiCAF), chromium-doped chrysoberyl (alexandrite) laser, chromium ZnSe (Cr:ZnSe) laser, divalent samarium-doped calcium fluoride (Sm:CaF2) laser, Er:YAG laser, erbium-doped and co-doped erbium-ytterbium glass laser, F-center laser, holmium YAG (Ho:YAG) laser, Nd:YAG laser, NdCrYAG laser, neodymium-doped calcium yttrium oxyborate Nd:YCa4O(BO3)3 or Nd:YCOB, One or more of neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (Nd:YVO4) laser, neodymium glass (Nd:glass) laser, neodymium YLF (Nd:YLF) solid-state laser, promethium-147-doped phosphate glass (147Pm3+:glass) solid-state laser, ruby ​​laser (Al2O3:Cr3+), thulium YAG (Tm:YAG) laser, titanium sapphire (Ti:sapphire; Al2O3:Ti3+) laser, trivalent uranium-doped calcium fluoride (U:CaF2) solid-state laser, ytterbium-doped glass laser (rod, plate / chip and fiber), ytterbium YAG (Yb:YAG) laser, Yb2O3 (glass or ceramic) laser, etc.

[0028] For example, including second harmonic generation embodiments and third harmonic generation embodiments, the light source may include an F-centered laser, a yttrium orthovanadate (Nd:YVO4) laser, a promethium-147-doped phosphate glass (147Pm 3+ : glass) and titanium sapphire (Ti: sapphire; Al2O3:Ti 3+ ) lasers. For example, such a light source can be used to generate blue light, taking into account second harmonic generation and third harmonic generation.

[0029] In an embodiment, the term "laser" or "solid-state laser" or "solid-state material laser" may refer to one or more of semiconductor laser diodes, such as GaN, InGaN, AlGaInP, AlGaAs, InGaAsP, lead salts, vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), quantum cascade lasers, hybrid silicon lasers, etc.

[0030] Lasers can be combined with upconverters to achieve shorter (laser) wavelengths. For example, upconversion can be achieved using some (trivalent) rare earth ions, or using nonlinear crystals. Alternatively, lasers can be combined with downconverters (such as dye lasers) to achieve longer (laser) wavelengths.

[0031] It can be derived from the following that the term "laser light source" may also refer to a plurality of (different or identical) laser light sources. In a specific embodiment, the term "laser light source" may refer to a plurality of N (identical) laser light sources. In an embodiment, N=2 or more. In a specific embodiment, N may be at least 5, such as in particular at least 8. In this way, a higher brightness can be obtained. In an embodiment, the laser light source may be arranged in a laser group (see also above). In an embodiment, the laser group may include heat dissipation and / or optical devices, such as lenses for collimating the laser light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the lasers in a laser group (or "laser array group") may share the same optical devices.

[0032] The laser light source is configured to generate laser light source light (or "laser light"). The light source light may essentially consist of laser light source light. The light source light may also include laser light source light from two or more (different or identical) laser light sources. For example, the laser light source light from two or more (different or identical) laser light sources may be coupled into a light guide to provide a single light beam including laser light source light from two or more (different or identical) laser light sources. In a specific embodiment, the light source light is therefore particularly collimated light source light. In a further embodiment, the light source light is particularly (collimated) laser light source light.

[0033] In an embodiment, the laser source light may include one or more bands having a known bandwidth for the laser. In a specific embodiment, the band(s) may be relatively sharp lines, such as having a full width at half maximum (FWHM) in the range of less than 20 nm at RT, such as equal to or less than 10 nm. Thus, the source light may have a spectral power distribution (intensity on an energy scale as a function of wavelength) that may include one or more (narrow) bands.

[0034] The beam (of light source light) may be a focused or collimated beam of light from a (laser) light source. The term "focused" may particularly refer to converging to a small spot. This small spot may be located at the discrete converter region, or (slightly) upstream thereof, or (slightly) downstream thereof. In particular, the focusing and / or collimation may be such that the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the beam at (a side of) the discrete converter region is not substantially larger than the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the discrete converter region where the light source light irradiates the discrete converter region. Focusing may be performed using one or more optical devices, such as (focusing) lenses. In particular, two lenses may be used to focus the light from the laser light source. Collimation may be performed using one or more (other) optical devices, such as collimating elements, such as lenses and / or parabolic mirrors. In embodiments, the light beam from the (laser) light source may be relatively highly collimated, such as, in embodiments, ≤2° (FWHM), more particularly ≤1° (FWHM), and most particularly ≤0.5° (FWHM). Therefore, ≤2° (FWHM) may be considered (highly) collimated light from the light source. Optics may be used to provide (high) collimation (see also above).

[0035] The term "solid-state material laser" and similar terms may refer to solid-state lasers based on crystals or glasses doped with ions (such as transition metal ions and / or lanthanide ions), fiber lasers, photonic crystal lasers, semiconductor lasers such as, for example, vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), etc.

[0036] The term "solid-state light source" and similar terms may particularly refer to semiconductor light sources, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), diode lasers, or superluminescent diodes. Instead of the term "solid-state light source," the term "semiconductor-based light source" may also be applied. Thus, the term "semiconductor-based light source" may, for example, refer to one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), a diode laser, and a superluminescent diode. Thus, a light-generating device may include one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), a diode laser, and a superluminescent diode.

[0037] Superluminescent diodes are known in the art and can be denoted as semiconductor devices that can emit a broad spectrum of low-coherence light like an LED, while having a brightness comparable to that of a laser diode.

[0038] The beam (of light source light) may be a focused or collimated beam of light from a (laser) light source. The term "focused" may particularly refer to converging to a small spot. This small spot may be located at the discrete converter region, or (slightly) upstream thereof, or (slightly) downstream thereof. In particular, the focusing and / or collimation may be such that the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the beam at (a side of) the discrete converter region is not substantially larger than the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the discrete converter region where the light source light irradiates the discrete converter region. Focusing may be performed using one or more optical devices, such as (focusing) lenses. In particular, two lenses may be used to focus the light from the laser light source. Collimation may be performed using one or more (other) optical devices, such as collimating elements, such as lenses and / or parabolic mirrors. In embodiments, the light beam from the (laser) light source may be relatively highly collimated, such as, in embodiments, ≤2° (FWHM), more particularly ≤1° (FWHM), and most particularly ≤0.5° (FWHM). Therefore, ≤2° (FWHM) may be considered (highly) collimated light from the light source. Optics may be used to provide (high) collimation (see also above).

[0039] The term "solid-state material laser" and similar terms may refer to solid-state lasers based on crystals or glasses doped with ions (such as transition metal ions and / or lanthanide ions), fiber lasers, photonic crystal lasers, semiconductor lasers such as, for example, vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), etc.

[0040] The term "solid-state light source" and similar terms may particularly refer to semiconductor light sources, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), diode lasers, or superluminescent diodes. Instead of the term "solid-state light source," the term "semiconductor-based light source" may also be applied. Thus, the term "semiconductor-based light source" may, for example, refer to one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), a diode laser, and a superluminescent diode. Thus, a light-generating device may include one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), a diode laser, and a superluminescent diode.

[0041] Superluminescent diodes are known in the art and can be denoted as semiconductor devices that can emit a broad spectrum of low-coherence light like an LED, while having a brightness comparable to that of a laser diode.

[0042] For example, US2020192017 indicates that "with current technology, a single SLED is capable of emitting in the 800 to 900 nm wavelength range with sufficient spectral flatness and sufficient output power over a bandwidth of, for example, at most 50 to 70 nm. In the visible range for display applications, i.e., in the 450 to 650 nm wavelength range, a single SLED is capable of emitting in a bandwidth of at most 10 to 30 nm with current technology. These emission bandwidths are too small for display or projector applications requiring red (640 nm), green (520 nm) and blue (450 nm) (i.e., RGB) emission." Further, in the book first published on August 3, 2020 by Szymon Stanczyk, Anna Kafar, Dario Schiavon, Stephen Najda, Thomas Slight, Piotr Perlin, (multiple) book editors Fabrizio Roccaforte, Mike Leszczynski https: / / doi.org / 10.1002 / 9783527825264.ch9 Chapter 9.3Superluminescent diodes are described in "Edge Emitting Laser Diodes and Superluminescent Diodes". This book (particularly Chapter 9.3) is incorporated herein by reference. It states that a superluminescent diode (SLD) is an emitter that combines the features of a laser diode and a light-emitting diode. SLD emitters utilize stimulated emission, which means that these devices operate at current densities similar to those of laser diodes. The main difference between LDs and SLDs is that in the latter case the device waveguide can be designed in a special way to prevent the formation of standing waves and lasing. Nevertheless, the presence of the waveguide ensures the emission of a high-quality beam with high spatial coherence of the light, but the characteristic of the light is that it has low temporal coherence at the same time" and "Currently, the most successful designs for nitride SLDs are bent, curved or tilted waveguide geometries and tilted facet geometries, while in all cases the front end of the waveguide intersects the device facets in an inclined manner, as shown in Figure 9.10. The tilted waveguide suppresses light reflections from the facets into the waveguide by directing the light outside the lossy, non-pumped regions of the device chip. Thus, an SLD can be in particular a semiconductor light source in which the spontaneously emitted light is amplified by stimulated emission in the active region of the device. Such emission is known as "superluminescence". Superluminescent diodes combine the high power and brightness of laser diodes with the low coherence of conventional light-emitting diodes. The low (temporal) coherence of the source has the advantage that speckle is significantly reduced or invisible, and the spectral distribution of the emission is much broader than that of laser diodes, which may be more suitable for lighting applications. In particular, the spectral power distribution of a superluminescent diode may vary with varying current. In this way, the spectral power distribution can be controlled, see also, for example, Abdullah A. Alatawi et al. in Optics Express, Vol. 26, No. 20, pp. 26355-26364. https: / / doi.org / 10.1364 / OE.26.026355 .

[0043] The respective light sources of the first light generating means and the second light generating means may in particular be substantially identical, like two solid-state light sources of the same bin.In a particular embodiment, the device light generated by the respective light generating means may have substantially the same color point.

[0044] In other specific embodiments, the colors or color points of the first and second types of light may be substantially the same when the respective color points of the first and second types of light differ by at most 0.03 for u' and / or at most 0.03 for v', or even more specifically, by at most 0.02 for u' and / or at most 0.02 for v'. In more specific embodiments, the respective color points of the first and second types of light may differ by at most 0.01 for u' and / or at most 0.01 for v'. Here, u' and v' are the color coordinates of the light in the CIE 1976 UCS (Uniform Chromaticity Scale) diagram. The color points indicated by u', v' specifically refer to CIE 1976 color points (see ISO CIE 11664-5: Colorimetry - Part 5: CIE 1976 L*u*v* Color Space and u', v' Uniform Chromaticity Scale Diagram).

[0045] Each light generating arrangement comprises a light generating device. The light generating device is in particular configured to generate device light. The (respective) light generating device may comprise a (respective) light source (in particular a solid state light source).

[0046] In an embodiment, the first light generating device comprises a first (solid-state (laser)) light source (configured to generate a first (solid-state) (laser) light source light). In an embodiment, the first device light comprises the first light source light. In other embodiments, the first device light may consist of the first light source light. In other embodiments, the first device light comprises converted first (solid-state (laser)) light source light, because the first light generating device may comprise a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the first (solid-state) (laser) light source light into luminescent material light (for luminescent material, see also above (and below)). Therefore, the first device light may comprise luminescent material light. The first device light may be a laser (see also the above examples). It can be derived from the above that the terms "first light source" and "first light generating device" may also refer to a plurality of (substantially identical) first light sources and a plurality of (substantially identical) light generating devices, respectively. In a specific embodiment, the first light generating device comprises a laser group comprising a plurality of first (solid-state) laser light sources.

[0047] In an embodiment, the second light generating device comprises a second (solid-state (laser)) light source (configured to generate second (solid-state) (laser) light source light). In an embodiment, the second device light comprises second light source light. In other embodiments, the second device light may consist of second light source light. In other embodiments, the second device light comprises converted second (solid-state (laser)) light source light, because the second light generating device may comprise a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the second (solid-state) (laser) light source light into luminescent material light (for luminescent material, see also above (and below)). Therefore, the second device light may comprise luminescent material light. The second device light may be a laser (see also the above examples). It can be derived from the above that the terms "second light source" and "second light generating device" may also refer to a plurality of (substantially identical) second light sources and a plurality of (substantially identical) light generating devices, respectively. In a specific embodiment, the second light generating device comprises a laser group comprising a plurality of second (solid-state) laser light sources.

[0048] In this document the term device is applied, because in embodiments the device may not be the only (solid-state) light source but may comprise more components.The following embodiments may apply separately to the first light generating device and the second light generating device.

[0049] In an embodiment, the light generating means may comprise a laser bank.Thus, the light generating means may comprise a plurality of (solid-state) laser light sources, such as in particular laser diodes.

[0050] In an embodiment, the light generating device may (further) include optical devices to beam shape the device light and / or homogenize the device light (of multiple light generating devices). In particular, the optical devices may be configured to provide a device light beam that is relatively more collimated downstream of the optical devices than upstream of the optical devices. Thus, these optical devices may be configured downstream of the light generating device and may be considered to be included in the light generating device.

[0051] In an embodiment, the light generating device may include a polarizer element. The polarizer element may be applied to (further) polarize the device light of the light generating device. In a specific embodiment, the polarizer element may be controllable so that in a first configuration a polarization is maintained or applied and in a second configuration another polarization is applied. For example, unpolarized light may be converted to p-polarized light in a first configuration, or p-polarized light may remain p-polarized light in a first configuration and, in a second configuration, the unpolarized light may be converted to s-polarized light or the p-polarized light may be converted to s-polarized light, respectively. Thus, the polarizer element may be configured downstream of the light generating device and may be considered to be included in the light generating device.

[0052] Note that the controllable polarizer element may alternatively be considered to consist of a beam direction control system, since the polarization of the device light may dictate the optical path of the device light (see also below).For example, polarization may be controlled with a retarder, such as in particular a λ / 2 retarder.

[0053] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to an arrangement of items or features relative to the propagation of light from a light generating component (here particularly a light source), wherein, relative to a first position in a light beam from the light generating component, a second position in the light beam closer to the light generating component is "upstream" and a third position in the light beam further away from the light generating component is "downstream".

[0054] Thus, in a specific embodiment, the first light generating means may be configured to generate a first beam (B1) of first device light, wherein the first light generating means may include a first solid-state laser light source. Alternatively or additionally, in a specific embodiment, the second light generating means may (also) be configured to generate a second beam (B2) of second device light, wherein the second light generating means may include a second solid-state laser light source.

[0055] In this document, the term "device light" may be used generally to refer to (embodiments of) the first device light and / or the second device light.

[0056] In an embodiment, the system light includes a contribution from non-converted light and a contribution from converted light. Therefore, the system may further include a luminescent material. The luminescent material may be composed of a luminescent element. The luminescent element may include a layer. Alternatively (or additionally), the luminescent element may include a luminophore (such as, for example, a single crystal or a ceramic body).

[0057] The luminous body can have any shape. However, in general, the luminous body can include two substantially parallel faces that define the height (of the luminous body). Furthermore, the luminous body can include an edge face that bridges the two substantially parallel faces. The edge face can be curved in one or two dimensions. The edge face can be planar. The luminous body can have a rectangular or circular cross-section, but other cross-sections are also possible, such as, for example, hexagonal, octagonal, etc. Thus, the luminous body can have a circular cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, a square or a non-square rectangular cross-section. In an embodiment, the luminous body can have an n-gonal cross-section, where n is at least 3, such as 4 (square or rectangular cross-section), 5 (pentagonal cross-section), 6 (hexagonal cross-section), 8 (octagonal cross-section) or more. The two substantially parallel faces can also be indicated as "main faces" because they can, in particular, provide the largest external area of ​​the luminous body. Perpendicular to the above cross-section can be another cross-section, which in an embodiment can be rectangular. Thus, the luminous body can, for example, have a cubic shape, a (non-cubic) cuboid shape, an n-sided prism shape with n being at least 5 (such as a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism), and a cylindrical shape. However, other shapes are also possible. In particular, the luminous body can have a cuboid shape, a cylindrical shape, or an n-sided prism shape, where n is 6 or 8.

[0058] In an embodiment, the luminophore (or "body") has lateral dimensions width or length (W1 or L1) or diameter (D) and thickness or height (H1). In an embodiment, (i) D ≥ H1 or (ii) and W1 ≥ H1 and / or L1 ≥ H1. The luminophore may be transparent or light scattering. In an embodiment, the luminophore may comprise a ceramic luminescent material. In a specific embodiment, L1 ≤ 10 mm, such as in particular L1 ≤ 5 mm, more in particular L1 ≤ 3 mm, most in particular L1 ≤ 2 mm. In a specific embodiment, W1 ≤ 10 mm, such as in particular W1 ≤ 5 mm, more in particular W1 ≤ 3 mm, most in particular W1 ≤ 2 mm. In a specific embodiment, H1 ≤ 10 mm, such as in particular H1 ≤ 5 mm, more in particular H1 ≤ 3 mm, most in particular H1 ≤ 2 mm. In a specific embodiment, D ≤ 10 mm, such as in particular D ≤ 5 mm, more in particular D ≤ 3 mm, most in particular D ≤ 2 mm. In a specific embodiment, the thickness of the body in the embodiment can be in the range of 50μm to 1mm. Further, the lateral dimension (width / diameter) of the body can be in the range of 100μm to 10mm. In a further specific embodiment, (i) D>H1 or (ii) W1>H1 and W1>H1. In particular, the lateral dimension such as length, width and diameter is at least 2 times larger than the height, such as at least 5 times. In a specific embodiment, the light-emitting body has a first length L1, a first height H1 and a first width W1, wherein H1≤0.5*L1 and H1≤0.5*W1. In an embodiment, the light-emitting body can be a (small) tile. In an embodiment, the light-emitting body (200) can include a first face (201), a second face (202) and a side face (203) bridging the first face (201) and the second face (202). The first face and the second face can also be indicated as main faces. In the case of a cylinder, the side face can be a single side face. In the case of a cuboid, the side face can include four facets. In the case of a hexagonal prism, the side may include six facets.

[0059] The light-emitting element can in particular be arranged downstream of the first light-generating device and / or the second light-generating device. The downstream arrangement with respect to the first light-generating device and / or the second light-generating device can depend on the operating mode (see also below); i.e., whether the specific arrangement of the light-emitting element is downstream of the first light-generating device or the second light-generating device can depend on the operating mode, since in one operating mode the light-emitting element can receive device light from one of the light-generating devices, whereas in another operating mode the light-emitting element can receive device light from the other of the light-generating devices. Note that in an embodiment, it receives device light either from the first light-generating device or from the second light-generating device; however, this document does not exclude embodiments in which, in an operating mode, the light-emitting element can receive device light from both light-generating devices.

[0060] The luminescent material may be particularly capable of converting (when) the first device light received by the luminescent material or (when) the second device light received by the luminescent material, or a combination thereof, if the luminescent material receives the combination. Therefore, in an embodiment, the luminescent element may include a luminescent material, wherein the luminescent material may be capable of converting the first device light and / or the second device light received by the luminescent material into luminescent material light. Below, some embodiments related to the luminescent material are described.

[0061] The term "luminescent material" particularly refers to a material that can convert a first radiation (particularly one or more of UV radiation and blue radiation) into a second radiation. Typically, the first radiation and the second radiation have different spectral power distributions. Therefore, instead of the term "luminescent material," the term "luminescent converter" or "converter" may also be used. Typically, the second radiation has a spectral power distribution at a greater wavelength than the first radiation, which is the case in so-called down-conversion. However, in specific embodiments, the second radiation has a spectral power distribution whose intensity is at a smaller wavelength than the first radiation, which is the case in so-called up-conversion.

[0062] In an embodiment, a "luminescent material" may particularly refer to a material that can convert radiation into, for example, visible and / or infrared light. For example, in an embodiment, the luminescent material may be capable of converting one or more of UV radiation and blue radiation into visible light. In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material may also convert radiation into infrared radiation (IR). Thus, when excited with radiation, the luminescent material emits radiation. Typically, the luminescent material will be a down-converter, i.e., radiation of a smaller wavelength is converted into radiation with a larger wavelength (λ). ex <λ em ), but in a specific embodiment the luminescent material may comprise an upconverter luminescent material, ie radiation of a larger wavelength is converted into radiation with a smaller wavelength (λ ex >λ em ).

[0063] In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may refer to phosphorescence. In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may also refer to fluorescence. Instead of the term "luminescence," the term "emission" may also be used. Thus, the terms "first radiation" and "second radiation" may refer to excitation radiation and emission (radiation), respectively. Similarly, the term "luminescent material" may refer to phosphorescence and / or fluorescence in embodiments.

[0064] The term "luminescent material" can also refer to a variety of different luminescent materials. Examples of possible luminescent materials are shown below. Therefore, in specific embodiments, the term "luminescent material" can also refer to a luminescent material composition. Instead of the term "luminescent material," the term "phosphor" can also be used. These terms are known to those skilled in the art.

[0065] In an embodiment, the luminescent material is selected from garnet and nitride, in particular doped with trivalent cerium or divalent europium, respectively. The term "nitride" may also refer to nitrogen oxides or nitrogen silicates, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the luminescent material(s) may be selected from silicates, in particular doped with divalent europium.

[0066] In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material comprises a type A3B5O 12 : Ce, wherein A in an embodiment comprises one or more of Y, La, Gd, Tb and Lu, in particular (at least) one or more of Y, Gd, Tb and Lu, and wherein B in an embodiment comprises one or more of Al, Ga, In and Sc. In particular, A may comprise one or more of Y, Gd and Lu, such as in particular one or more of Y and Lu. In particular, B may comprise one or more of Al and Ga, more in particular at least Al, such as substantially entirely Al. Therefore, in particular, a suitable luminescent material is a garnet material comprising cerium. An embodiment of garnet in particular comprises A3B5O 12 Garnet, wherein A comprises at least yttrium or lutetium, and wherein B comprises at least aluminum. This garnet may be doped with cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), or a combination of cerium and praseodymium; however, it is particularly doped with Ce. In particular, B may comprise aluminum (Al); however, in addition to aluminum, B may also partially comprise gallium (Ga) and / or scandium (Sc) and / or indium (In), in particular up to about 20% B, more particularly up to about 10% B (i.e., the B ions essentially consist of 90 or more mol % Al and 10 or less mol % of one or more of Ga, Sc, and In); B may in particular comprise up to about 10% gallium. In another variant, B and O may be at least partially replaced by Si and N. The element A may in particular be selected from the group consisting of yttrium (Y), gadolinium (Gd), terbium (Tb), and lutetium (Lu). Furthermore, Gd and / or Tb are present in an amount specifically only up to about 20% of A. In a specific embodiment, the garnet luminescent material comprises (Y 1-x Lu x )3B5O 12 :Ce, wherein x is equal to or greater than 0 and equal to or less than 1. The term ":Ce" indicates that part of the metal ions in the luminescent material (ie, in garnet: part of the "A" ions) are replaced by Ce. For example, in (Y 1-x Lu x )3Al5O 12 In the case of Ce, part of Y and / or Lu is replaced by Ce. This is known to those skilled in the art. Ce will generally replace A by no more than 10%; typically, the Ce concentration will be in the range of 0.1% to 4%, particularly 0.1% to 2% (relative to A). Assuming 1% Ce and 10% Y, the completely correct molecular formula can be (Y0.1 Lu 0.89 Ce 0.01 )3Al5O 12 As is known to those skilled in the art, Ce in garnet is substantially or only in the trivalent state.

[0067] In an embodiment, the luminescent material thus comprises A3B5O 12 , where in a specific embodiment, up to 10% of B-O can be replaced by Si-N.

[0068] In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material comprises (Y x1-x2-x3 A’ x2 Ce x3 )3(Al<00000​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​, where Lu and / or Gd may be available. Even more particularly, x3 is selected from the range of 0.001 to 0.1, where 0 < x2 + x3 ≤ 0.1, and where 0 ≤ y2 ≤ 0.1. Further, in a specific embodiment, up to 1% of B-O may be replaced by Si-N. Here, the percentage refers to the number of moles (as known in the art); see also, for example, EP3149108. In a further specific embodiment, the luminescent material comprises (Y x1-x3 Ce x3 )3Al5O 12 , where x1 + x3 = 1, and where 0 < x3 ≤ 0.2, such as 0.001 to 0.1.

[0070] In a specific embodiment, the light generating device may comprise only a luminescent material selected from the type of garnet comprising cerium. In an even further specific embodiment, the light generating device comprises a single type of luminescent material, such as (Y x1-x2-x3 A’ x2 Ce x3 )3(Al y1-y2 B’ y2 )5O 12 . Thus, in a specific embodiment, the light generating device comprises a luminescent material, where at least 85% by weight, even more particularly at least about 90 wt.%, such as even more particularly at least about 95% by weight of the luminescent material comprises (Y x1-x2-x3 A’2Ce x3 )3(Al y1-y2 B’2)5O 12 . Here, where A’ comprises one or more elements selected from the group consisting of lanthanide elements, and where B’ comprises one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Ga, In, and Sc, where x1 + x2 + x3 = 1, where x3 > 0, where 0 < x2 + x3 ≤ 0.2, where y1 + y2 = 1, where 0 ≤ y2 ≤ 0.2. In particular, x3 is selected from the range of 0.001 to 0.1. Note that in an embodiment, x2 = 0. Alternatively or additionally, in an embodiment, y2 = 0.

[0071] In a specific embodiment, A may particularly comprise at least Y, and B may particularly comprise at least Al.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, where the luminescent material may comprise a luminescent material of the type A3Si6N 11 :Ce 3+ , where A comprises one or more of Y, La, Gd, Tb, and Lu, such as one or more of La and Y in an embodiment.

[0073] In an embodiment, the luminescent material may alternatively or additionally comprise MS:Eu2+ and / or M2Si5N8:Eu 2+ and / or MalSiN3:Eu 2+ and / or Ca2AlSi3O2N5:Eu 2+ etc., wherein M comprises one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca, and in particular in an embodiment comprises at least Sr. Thus, in an embodiment, the luminescence may comprise one or more materials selected from the group consisting of (Ba,Sr,Ca)S:Eu, (Ba,Sr,Ca)AlSiN3:Eu and (Ba,Sr,Ca)2Si5N8:Eu. In these compounds, europium (Eu) is substantially or only divalent and replaces one or more of the indicated divalent cations. Typically, Eu is present in an amount not greater than 10% of the cations; it is present in an amount particularly in the range of about 0.5% to 10%, more particularly in the range of about 0.5% to 5%, relative to the cation(s) it replaces. The term ":Eu" indicates that part of the metal ion is replaced by Eu (in these examples by Eu). 2+ For example, assuming that the Eu content in CaAlSiN3:Eu is 2%, the correct chemical formula would be (Ca 0.98 Eu 0.02 )AlSiN3. Divalent europium will generally replace divalent cations, such as the above divalent alkaline earth cations, in particular Ca, Sr or Ba. The material (Ba,Sr,Ca)S:Eu can also be indicated as MS:Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr) and calcium (Ca); in particular, M includes calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more in particular calcium in the compound. Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least a portion of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca). Further, the material (Ba,Sr,Ca)2Si5N8:Eu can also be indicated as M2Si5N8:Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr) and calcium (Ca); in particular, M includes Sr and / or Ba in the compound. In a further specific embodiment, M consists of Sr and / or Ba (excluding the presence of Eu), in particular 50% to 100% (more in particular 50% to 90%) of Ba and 50% to 0% (in particular 50% to 10%) of Sr, such as Ba 1.5 Sr 0.5Si5N8:Eu (i.e., 75% Ba; 25% Sr). Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least a portion of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca). Similarly, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca)AlSiN3:Eu can also be indicated as MalSiN3:Eu, wherein M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr) and calcium (Ca); in particular, M in the compound includes calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more particularly calcium. Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least a portion of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca). As known to those skilled in the art, Eu in the luminescent materials indicated above is substantially or only in a divalent state.

[0074] In an embodiment, the red light emitting material may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of (Ba, Sr, Ca) S: Eu, (Ba, Sr, Ca) AlSiN3: Eu and (Ba, Sr, Ca) 2Si5N8: Eu. In these compounds, europium (Eu) is substantially or only divalent and replaces one or more indicated divalent cations. Typically, Eu is present in an amount not greater than 10% of the cations; it is present in an amount particularly in the range of about 0.5% to 10%, more particularly in the range of about 0.5% to 5%, relative to the cation(s) it replaces. The term ": Eu" indicates that part of the metal ions is replaced by Eu (in these examples by Eu). 2+ For example, assuming that the Eu content in CaAlSiN3:Eu is 2%, the correct molecular formula would be (Ca 0.98 Eu 0.02 )AlSiN 3. The divalent europium will generally replace a divalent cation, such as the above divalent alkaline earth cations, particularly Ca, Sr or Ba.

[0075] The material (Ba, Sr, Ca) S: Eu can also be indicated as MS: Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr), and calcium (Ca); in particular, M in the compound includes calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more particularly calcium. Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least a portion of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0076] Further, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca) 2 Si 5 N 8 : Eu may also be indicated as M 2 Si 5 N 8 : Eu, wherein M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr) and calcium (Ca); in particular, M includes Sr and / or Ba in the compound. In a further specific embodiment, M consists of Sr and / or Ba (not considering the presence of Eu), in particular 50% to 100% (more particularly 50% to 90%) of Ba and 50% to 0% (particularly 50% to 10%) of Sr, such as Ba 1.5 Sr 0.5 Si5N8:Eu (ie, 75% Ba; 25% Sr). Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least a portion of M (ie, one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0077] Similarly, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca)AlSiN3:Eu can also be indicated as MalSiN3:Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr), and calcium (Ca); in particular, M in the compound includes calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more particularly calcium. Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least a portion of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0078] As known to the person skilled in the art, Eu in the above-indicated luminescent materials is essentially or exclusively in the divalent state.

[0079] The blue light emitting material may include YSO (Y2SiO5:Ce 3+ ) or similar compounds or BAM (BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu 2 + ) or similar compounds.

[0080] The red luminescent material that can also be used may include M' doped with tetravalent manganese x M 2-2x AX6, wherein M' comprises an alkaline earth cation, wherein M comprises a cation, and x is in the range of 0 to 1, wherein A comprises a tetravalent cation, and wherein X comprises a monovalent anion, including at least fluorine.

[0081] The term "luminescent material" herein particularly refers to inorganic luminescent materials.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, other luminescent materials may also be used. For example, quantum dots and / or organic dyes may be used and may optionally be embedded in a transmissive matrix, such as a polymer (eg, PMMA or polysiloxane).

[0083] Quantum dots are small crystals of semiconductor material, typically with a width or diameter of only a few nanometers. When excited by incident light, the quantum dots emit light of a color determined by the size and material of the crystal. Therefore, light of a specific color can be produced by adapting the size of the dots. Most known quantum dots with emission in the visible range are based on cadmium selenide (CdSe) with a shell, such as cadmium sulfide (CdS) and zinc sulfide (ZnS). Cadmium-free quantum dots can also be used, such as indium phosphide (InP) and copper indium sulfide (CuInS2) and / or silver indium sulfide (AgInS2). Quantum dots show very narrow emission bands, so they show saturated colors. In addition, the emission color can be easily tuned by adapting the size of the quantum dots. Any type of quantum dots known in the art can be used in the present invention. However, for reasons of environmental safety and concern, cadmium-free quantum dots or at least quantum dots with a very low cadmium content can be preferably used.

[0084] Instead of or in addition to quantum dots, other quantum confinement structures may also be used. In the context of this application, the term "quantum confinement structure" should be understood as meaning, for example, quantum wells, quantum dots, quantum rods, tripods, tetrapods or nanowires.

[0085] Organic phosphors can also be used. Examples of suitable organic phosphor materials are organic luminescent materials based on perylene derivatives, such as those marketed by BASF under the name Examples of suitable compounds include, but are not limited to, Red F305, Orange F240, Yellow F083 and F170.

[0086] Different luminescent materials may have different spectral power distributions of the respective luminescent material light. Alternatively or additionally, such different luminescent materials may in particular have different color points (or dominant wavelengths).

[0087] As indicated above, other luminescent materials may also be possible. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the luminescent material is selected from the group consisting of a nitride containing divalent europium, an oxynitride containing divalent europium, a silicate containing divalent europium, a garnet containing cerium, and a quantum structure. The quantum structure may, for example, comprise quantum dots or quantum rods (or other quantum-type particles) (see above). The quantum structure may also comprise a quantum well. The quantum structure may also comprise a photonic crystal.

[0088] The luminescent material light provided by the luminescent element may be at least partially diffuse (luminescent material) light. Since the system light may in embodiments also include unconverted light source light, it may be desirable that the unconverted light is also diffuse light. In embodiments, this may also reduce speckle. Further, when using lasers, it may be desirable to diffuse the (laser) light to possibly enhance safety. Therefore, in embodiments, the system may include a diffuser element, wherein in particular the diffuser element may be configured to diffuse the first device light and / or the second device light received by the diffuser element, thereby providing diffuse light.

[0089] The diffuser element is in particular arranged downstream of the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device. The downstream arrangement with respect to the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device may depend on the operating mode (see also below); i.e., whether the specific arrangement of the diffuser element is downstream of the first light generating device or the second light generating device may depend on the operating mode, since in one operating mode the diffuser element may receive device light from one of the light generating devices, whereas in another operating mode the diffuser element may receive device light from the other of the light generating devices. Note that in embodiments, it receives device light either from the first light generating device or from the second light generating device; however, this document does not exclude embodiments in which, in an operating mode, the diffuser element may receive device light from both light generating devices.

[0090] The diffuser element may be particularly capable of diffusing the first device light (when) received by the diffuser element or the second device light (when) received by the diffuser element, or a combination thereof, if the diffuser element receives the combination. Thus, in an embodiment, the diffuser element may be capable of diffusing the first device light and / or the second device light received by the diffuser element. Thus, device light diffused at the diffuser element and propagating away from the diffuser element may be less collimated than device light propagating to the diffuser element.

[0091] As indicated above, the diffuser element may be configured to diffuse device light received by the diffuser element, thereby providing diffused light. This diffused light may be polarized, but not necessarily polarized. In particular, when using a transmissive mode, the unpolarization of the diffused light may not be a problem. However, when a reflective mode is applied, it may be necessary to use a diffuser element that is configured to diffuse the received device light while maintaining at least partial polarization. Therefore, in an embodiment, in particular in the reflective mode, the diffuser element may comprise a polarization-maintaining diffuser element. Polarization-maintaining diffuser elements are known in the art and are described, for example, in US5963284, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] In particular, the beam direction control system can allow a selection between two configurations. For example, in an embodiment, this may mean that in a first operating mode, the light emitting element receives more light from one of the light generating devices or all of the light of the light generating device, and the diffuser element receives more light from another of the light generating devices or all of the light of the (other) light generating device, while in a second operating mode, the light emitting element receives more light from the other of the light generating devices or all of the light of the light generating device, and the diffuser element receives more light from one of the light generating devices or all of the light of the light generating device. This may mean that in an embodiment, the same spectral power distribution of the system light can be obtained in both operating modes. This may also mean that, for example, when the execution of the first operating mode over time causes one of the light generating devices to degrade, in the second operating mode, the directions of the device lights of the corresponding light generating devices can be substantially swapped. Thus, switching to the other operating mode (of the two operating modes) may result in the directions of the device lights of the corresponding light generating devices being substantially swapped. For example, when one of the light generating devices is operating at maximum power, or is therefore shut down, such as 90% to 100% of maximum power, it may degrade faster than another light generating device in the light generating device, which may be operating at 5% to 90% of maximum power, such as 5% to 75%. When the operating mode is switched after a certain operating time, it can be restarted at maximum power, for example. In this way, the life of the system can be extended. Therefore, the beam direction control system can be configured to receive device light from the first light generating device and the second light generating device, and to distribute the received device light across the light-emitting element and the diffuser element.

[0093] Therefore, in an embodiment, the beam direction control system can be configured to be in a light receiving relationship with the first light generating device and the second light generating device, and be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct a first pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a first pump intensity (Ip1) to the light-emitting element, and (ii) direct a first diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct a second pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light-emitting element, and (ii) direct a second diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light having a second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) to the diffuser element.

[0094] Thus, in a first operating mode, the light emitting element may receive light having a first pump intensity (Ip1), which may include the first device light and / or the second device light (in a specific embodiment, substantially only one of these device lights; see also below). Further, in the first operating mode, the diffuser element may receive light having a first diffuser partial intensity (Id1), which may include the first device light and / or the second device light (in a specific embodiment, substantially only one of these device lights; see also below). Likewise, in a second operating mode, the light emitting element may receive light having a second pump intensity (Ip2), which may include the first device light and / or the second device light (in a specific embodiment, substantially only one of these device lights; see also below). Further, in the second operating mode, the diffuser element may receive light having a second diffuser partial intensity (Id1), which may include the first device light and / or the second device light (in a specific embodiment, substantially only one of these device lights; see also below).

[0095] However, the ratio of the percentages of the first device light and the second device light at the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second pump intensity (Ip2) can be different, such as, for example, in a first operating mode, the first device light can provide >50% of the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second device light can provide <50%, while in a second operating mode, the first device light can provide <50% of the second pump intensity (Ip2) and the second device light can provide >50%. More specifically, in an embodiment, in the first operating mode, the first device light can provide 100% of the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second device light can provide 0%, while in the second operating mode, the first device light can provide 0% of the second pump intensity (Ip2) and the second device light can provide 100%.

[0096] Likewise, the ratio of the percentages of the first device light and the second device light at the first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) and the second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) can be different, such as, for example, in a first operating mode, the first device light can provide <50% of the first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) and the second device light can provide >50%, while in a second operating mode, the first device light can provide >50% of the second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) and the second device light can provide <50%. More particularly, in an embodiment, in the first operating mode, the first device light can provide 0% of the first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) and the second device light can provide 100%, while in the second operating mode, the first device light can provide 100% of the second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) and the second device light can provide 0%.

[0097] Thus, in an embodiment, one or more (in particular both) of the following may apply: (a) the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second pump intensity (Ip2) have different relative contributions of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121), and (b) the first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) and the second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) have different relative contributions of the first device light and / or the second device light.

[0098] From the above, it can be derived that, in an embodiment, in any operating mode, the device light received by the light-emitting element and the device light received by the diffuser element are selected from the first device light or the second device light, i.e., substantially (at a single point in time) the light-emitting element receives either the first device light or the second device light (but not part of both), and the diffuser element receives either the second device light or the first device light (but not part of both). As indicated above, in particular, the first device light and the second device light are laser light.

[0099] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the beam direction control system can be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct the first device light having a first pump intensity (Ip1) to the light-emitting element, and (ii) direct the second device light having a first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct the second device light having a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light-emitting element, and (ii) direct the first device light having a second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) to the diffuser element.

[0100] Note that terms like first and second etc. may specifically indicate different types, or may be used to indicate different aspects, or may refer to similar elements in different locations, etc. The terms first operating mode and second operating mode do not necessarily indicate a specific order.

[0101] Therefore, definitions such as "(a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) first device light having a first pump intensity (Ip1) is directed to the light emitting element, and (ii) second device light having a first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) is directed to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) second device light having a second pump intensity (Ip2) is directed to the light emitting element, and (ii) first device light having a second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) is directed to the diffuser element" can also be defined as non- The embodiments may be different without departing from the invention, such as “(a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) directing a first device light having a first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element, and (ii) directing a second device light having a first pump intensity (Ip1) to the light-emitting element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) directing a second device light having a second diffuser partial intensity (Ip2) to the diffuser element, and (ii) directing the first device light having a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light-emitting element”.

[0102] Two examples of operating mode sets are provided in the table below. In the first example in the table, in the first operating mode, the intensity of the first pump portion received by the light-emitting element is primarily provided by the first device light, but 25% of the power can be provided by the second device light. These percentages should specifically add up to 100%. In the first example, in the first operating mode, the intensity of the first diffuser portion received by the diffuser element is primarily provided by the second device light, but 25% of the power can be provided by the first device light. These percentages should specifically add up to 100%.

[0103] Note that the spectral powers provided by the first device and the second device are not necessarily equal. Thus, although in this example the percentage of the first device's light received by the light-emitting element (i.e., 75%) and the percentage of the first device's light received by the diffuser element (i.e., 25%) add up to 100%, this is not necessarily the case.

[0104] In the first example in the table, in the second operating mode, the first pump portion intensity received by the light-emitting element is 25% of the power provided by the first device light, and 75% of the power can be provided by the second device light. In the first example, in the second operating mode, the first diffuser portion intensity received by the diffuser element is 75% of the power provided by the first device light, and 25% of the power can be provided by the second device light.

[0105] In the second example in the table, in the first operating mode, the first pump portion intensity received by the light-emitting element is provided solely by the first device light without any contribution from the second device light. In the second example, in the first operating mode, the first diffuser portion intensity received by the diffuser element is provided solely by the second device light without any contribution from the first device light.

[0106] In the second example in the table, in the second operating mode, the first pump portion intensity received by the light-emitting element is provided solely by the second device light without any contribution provided by the first device light. In the second example, in the second operating mode, the first diffuser portion intensity received by the diffuser element is provided solely by the first device light without any contribution provided by the second device light.

[0107]

[0108] Thus, the phrase "a first pump portion of the first device light and / or the second device light" can refer to a percentage between 0% and 100% of the first device light and a percentage between 0% and 100% of the second device light, but at least not 0% (see also Examples 1 and 2 in the table above). In a specific embodiment, the phrase can refer to 100% of the first device light without the second device light, or 100% of the second device light without the first device light (see Example 2 in the table above). Further, the term "first pump portion" refers to the portion of the device light of the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device that propagates to the light-emitting element.

[0109] Similarly, the phrase "first diffuser portion of the first device light and / or the second device light" can refer to a percentage between 0% and 100% of the first device light and a percentage between 0% and 100% of the second device light, but at least not 0% (see also Examples 1 and 2 in the table above). In a specific embodiment, the phrase can refer to 100% of the first device light without the second device light, or 100% of the second device light without the first device light (see Example 2 in the table above). Further, the term "first diffuser portion" refers to a portion of the device light of the first light-generating device and / or the second light-generating device that propagates to the diffuser element.

[0110] Intensity can be defined in particular in terms of radiant flux or radiant power (Watts).

[0111] As indicated above, the system may also include a control system. In particular, the control system may be configured to control the system light. Controlling the system light may include controlling which device light is provided to the light-emitting element and / or which device light is provided to the diffuser element. Controlling may also mean controlling the power of the device light provided to the light-emitting element and / or the power of the device light provided to the diffuser element. In this way, for example, the spectral power distribution of the system light may also be controlled. In particular, the control system may be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device, and the beam direction control system.

[0112] The term "control" and similar terms particularly refer to at least determining an action or supervising the operation of an element. Therefore, "control" and similar terms herein may, for example, refer to imposing an action (determining an action or supervising the operation of an element) on an element, such as, for example, measuring, displaying, actuating, opening, shifting, changing temperature, etc. In addition, the term "control" and similar terms may additionally include monitoring. Therefore, the term "control" and similar terms may include imposing an action on an element as well as imposing an action on an element and monitoring the element. Control of an element may be accomplished using a control system, which may also be indicated as a "controller." The control system and the element may therefore be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. The element may include a control system. In an embodiment, the control system and the element may not be physically coupled. Control may be accomplished via wired and / or wireless control. The term "control system" may also refer to multiple different control systems, which may be functionally coupled, and for example, one control system may be a master control system and one or more other control systems may be slave control systems. The control system may include a user interface or may be functionally coupled to a user interface.

[0113] The control system may also be configured to receive and execute commands from a remote control. In an embodiment, the control system may be controlled via an application on a device, such as a portable device, such as a smartphone or iPhone, a tablet computer, etc. Thus, the device is not necessarily coupled to the lighting system, but may be (temporarily) functionally coupled to the lighting system.

[0114] Therefore, in an embodiment, the control system can (also) be configured to be controlled by an application on a remote device. In such an embodiment, the control system of the lighting system can be a slave control system or a control in slave mode. For example, the lighting system can be identifiable by a code, in particular a unique code for the respective lighting system. The control system of the lighting system can be configured to be controlled by an external control system that accesses the lighting system based on knowledge of the (unique) code (input via a user interface with an optical sensor (e.g., a QR code reader)). The lighting system can also include components for communicating with other systems or devices, such as based on Bluetooth, Thread, WiFi, LiFi, ZigBee, BLE, WiMAX, or another wireless technology.

[0115] A system or device or apparatus may perform actions in a "mode" or "operating mode" or "operating mode" or "operable mode". The term "operable mode" may also be indicated as a "control mode". Similarly, in a method, actions or phases or steps may be performed in a "mode" or "operating mode" or "operating mode" or "operable mode". This does not exclude that the system or device or apparatus may also be adapted to provide another control mode or multiple other control modes. Similarly, this may not exclude that before and / or after the execution of a mode, one or more other modes may be executed.

[0116] However, in embodiments, a control system may be available that is adapted to provide at least one control mode. If other modes are available, the selection of such a mode may in particular be performed via a user interface, although other options (such as executing a mode based on sensor signals or a (time) schedule) may also be possible. An operating mode may also refer in embodiments to a system or device or apparatus that can only operate in a single operating mode (i.e., "on," without further tunability).

[0117] Therefore, in an embodiment, the control system may be controlled according to one or more of an input signal from a user interface, a sensor signal (of a sensor), and a timer. The term "timer" may refer to a clock and / or a predetermined time scheme.

[0118] Furthermore, in embodiments, the light generating system may be configured to generate system light comprising luminescent material light and diffuse light. Specifically, the system light may have one or more wavelengths within the visible wavelength range. More specifically, the system light may be white light. However, in other embodiments, the system light may be colored light.

[0119] The term "white light" and similar terms herein are known to those skilled in the art. It may particularly relate to light having a correlated color temperature (CCT) between approximately 1800K and 20,000K, such as between 2000K and 20,000K, particularly 2700 to 20,000K, with typical lighting particularly being in the range of approximately 2000K to 7000K, such as between 2700K and 6500K. In embodiments, for example for backlighting purposes or other purposes, the correlated color temperature may particularly be in the range of approximately 7000K and 20,000K. Furthermore, in embodiments, the correlated color temperature is particularly within approximately 15 SDCM (standard deviation of color matching) from the BBL (blackbody locus), particularly within approximately 10 SDCM from the BBL, even more particularly within approximately 5 SDCM from the BBL.

[0120] In a specific embodiment, the correlated color temperature may be selected from the range of 6000 to 12000 K, such as from the range of 7000 to 12000 K, such as at least 8000 K. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the correlated color temperature may be selected from the range of 6000 to 12000 K, such as from the range of 7000 to 12000 K, in combination with a CRI of at least 70.

[0121] The terms "visible", "visible light" or "visible emission" and similar terms refer to light with one or more wavelengths in the range of about 380 to 780 nm. In this context, UV may particularly refer to a wavelength selected from the range of 190 to 380 nm, such as 200 to 380 nm.

[0122] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the system light is white system light.Herein, in a specific embodiment, the system light may have a correlated color temperature selected from the range of 6000 to 10000K.

[0123] In particular, the first device light and the second device light can be propagated in such a way that at a certain position within the system they have a mutual angle of 90°. More particularly, in case the optical element (see also below) consists of a beam direction control system, the first device beam and the optical element can have a first mutual angle of 45° and the second device beam and the optical element can have a second mutual angle of 45°. Further, the first device beam and the second device beam can have a mutual angle of 90°. The optical element can be arranged between the two device beams propagating from the respective light generating devices to the optical element. When there is an operating mode in which both beams are reflected by the optical element and another operating mode in which both beams are transmitted through the optical element or through a space in which the optical element is arranged in the former operating mode, then these two operating modes can provide modes in which the contribution of the device light received at the light emitting element can be exchanged and / or in which the contribution of the device light received at the diffuser element can be exchanged; see also further below. Thus, in one operating mode, both beams can be reflected at the optical element in the control region (see also below), and in another operating mode, both beams can propagate through the control region (substantially without any (substantial) deflection) because the optical element is already transmissive to the two beams or is removed from the control region. The former mode can also be indicated as a reflection mode, and the latter mode can also be indicated as a transmission mode.

[0124] In particular, the optical element can be a substantially planar optical element, such as a substantially planar mirror or a substantially planar reflective polarizer (or reflective polarizing beam splitter). Such an optical element can comprise two (main) faces, which can be arranged in parallel. In one of the operating modes, the first device light can irradiate one of these main faces and the second device light can irradiate the other of these main faces. In particular, the two beams can have a mutual angle of 90°, with the optical element being arranged between the two (in at least one operating mode). Thus, the first device light beam and the optical element can have a first mutual angle of 45° (with one of the two opposing faces) and the second device light beam and the optical element can have a second mutual angle of 45° (with the other of the two opposing faces).

[0125] Thus, in a particular embodiment, the beam direction control system may comprise a control region, wherein during operation of the light generating system, the first device light and the second device light may propagate through the control region at a first mutual angle (α1), wherein in particular α1 = 90°. The control region may be a 3D space, wherein the optical element may also be configured in at least one operating mode (see also further below). For example, the control region may be a minimum cuboid enclosing the optical element, but wherein the cuboid faces are not arranged parallel to the main faces of the optical element, more particularly wherein the optical element is arranged parallel to a diagonal plane within the cuboid.

[0126] Angles relative to a beam can be defined relative to the optical axis of the beam. In particular, the term "optical axis" can be defined as an imaginary line that defines the path of light traveling through the system starting from a light-generating element (here, in particular, a light source). In particular, the optical axis can coincide with the direction of light with the highest radiant flux.

[0127] As indicated above, a light generating device operating at a higher power may degrade more quickly than the same (type of) light generating device operating at a lower power. This may occur in particular when the light generating device operating at a higher power is operating at or near maximum power. Therefore, beam swapping may be used, for example, when one of the light generating devices has degraded after a certain operating time.

[0128] The swap can then allow further operation. Typically, a device that provides a large amount (if not all) of the device light to the light-emitting element can operate at a higher power than a device that provides light to the diffuser element. However, this is not necessarily the case. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the control system can be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device and the beam direction control system so that in the first operating mode, Ip1 / Id1>1, and in the second operating mode, Ip2 / Id2>1. For example, in an embodiment, Ip1 / Id1≥1.5 and Ip2 / Id2≥1.5. In a specific embodiment, one or more of the following may apply (i) 1.5≤Ip1 / Id1≤15, and (ii) 1.5≤Ip2 / Id2≤15, such as one or more of (a) 1.5≤Ip1 / Id1≤10 and (b) 1.5≤Ip2 / Id2≤10.

[0129] However, in other embodiments, the control system may be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device and the beam direction control system such that in the first operating mode, Ip1 / Id1<1 and in the second operating mode, Ip2 / Id2<1.

[0130] In an embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode based on one or more of a time-dependent signal, a sensor signal, and a user input.

[0131] The time-dependent signal can be provided, for example, by a timer indicating the operating time, and after a certain operating time, the operating mode can be switched. The time-dependent signal can also be provided by a counter, counting the pulses provided. Other options may also be possible. The sensor signal may be, for example, an optical sensor, which senses a decrease in spectral power over time, and after a certain decrease, the mode can be switched. This may be a sensor dedicated to the spectral wavelength of the device light and / or may be a sensor dedicated to the spectral wavelength of the luminescent material. Other options may also be possible. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the light generating system may also include a sensor, wherein the sensor can be configured to generate a sensor signal related to the absolute or relative contribution of the first device light and / or the second device light to the system light. In particular, the sensor may be an optical sensor. Further, in an embodiment, the user may be allowed to change the operating mode.

[0132] In an embodiment, the change from the first operating mode to the second operating mode (or vice versa) may be a single change during the life of the system. However, it is not excluded herein that the operating mode may be switched again after a certain period of time. However, typically, this may occur relatively infrequently, such as once every 500 hours or less, once every 1000 hours or less, once every 2000 hours or less, or even once every 5000 hours or less.

[0133] Thus, in a particular embodiment, the control system can be configured to change from one mode to another after a predetermined operating time. In a more specific embodiment, the predetermined operating time can be selected from the range of 500 to 10,000 hours, such as at least 1,000 hours, such as at least 2,000 hours. In other embodiments, the predetermined operating time can be selected from the range of at least 4,000 hours.

[0134] The optical element may comprise a reflector, in particular a specular reflector, having two substantially parallel faces, both of which are specularly reflective. Alternatively, the optical element may comprise a reflective polarizer, wherein the reflective polarizer is transmissive to a first polarization (such as p-polarization or s-polarization) and is transmissive to a second polarization (such as s-polarization or p-polarization). In particular, such a reflective polarizer may have a relatively high transmission and a relatively low scattering for light that is transmitted, and light that is reflected by the reflective polarizer may also be specularly reflective. Note that in embodiments, the reflectivity for light having one polarization and the transmittance for light having another polarization may depend on the arrangement of the reflective polarizer relative to the incoming beam of light of the device. Specific embodiments are further described below. In embodiments, the optical element may comprise a polarization beam splitter.

[0135] Using a reflective polarizer, such as briefly described above, the propagation path of the device light can be controlled by controlling one or more of the following: (i) the position of the reflective polarizer (such as within or outside the control region), (ii) the orientation of the reflective polarizer (such as rotated (within the control region)), and (iii) the polarization of the device light. For example, in an embodiment, in a first orientation, the reflective polarizer can be reflective for p-polarized light and transmissive for s-polarized light. In another orientation, particularly after being rotated 90° in a plane parallel to the main surface, the reflective polarizer can be transmissive for p-polarized light and reflective for s-polarized light. Thus, assuming that the device light has p-polarization, in an operating mode, the reflective polarizer can be reflective for p-polarized device light, while being transmissive for the same light if it is s-polarized. After being rotated beyond 90°, the same reflective polarizer can be transmissive for p-polarized device light, while being reflective for the same light if it is s-polarized. Of course, this can also be chosen the other way around, ie assuming that the device light has s-polarization, in the operational mode the reflective polarizer can be reflective for s-polarized device light and transmissive for the same light if it is p-polarized.

[0136] In a specific embodiment, the first device light may include a first polarization (P1), and the second device light may include the first polarization (P1), and the beam direction control system may include a reflective polarizer configured to reflect light having the first polarization (P1). In particular, in an embodiment, the beam direction control system may be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct the first device light having the first polarization (P1) to the light emitting element, and (ii) direct the second device light having the first polarization (P1) to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, (i) direct the second device light having the first polarization (P1) to the light emitting element, and (ii) direct the first device light having the first polarization (P1) to the diffuser element. Thus, this provides a swap when changing from one mode to another.

[0137] Thus, in embodiments, during operation, the device lights provided by the respective apparatuses may all have the same polarization (particularly p-polarization or s-polarization).

[0138] For example, the first device light may have p-polarization and the second device light may have p-polarization, and both the first device light and the second device light may be reflected via the beam direction control system (in the first operating mode), in particular in these embodiments via a reflective polarizer (or another optical element). However, changing the reflective polarizer (or other optical element) may allow transmission of such p-polarized light (in the second operating mode). Alternatively, the p-polarization of the (first and / or second) device light (during the first operating mode) may be changed to s-polarization (during the second operating mode). However, alternatively, when the optical element (such as a reflective polarizer) reflects p-polarized light (in the first operating mode), and the first device light and the second device light propagate such that in the control region, the beams have a mutual angle of 90° and both are reflected at the optical element, removing the optical element such as the reflective polarizer from the control region (in the second operating mode) will cause the beams to be transmitted through the control region.

[0139] Thus, in embodiments, the beam direction control system can be configured to control the first and second operating modes by rotating the reflective polarizer. In particular, the rotation can exceed 90°. Thus, the reflective polarizer can be rotated 90° in the second operating mode relative to the first operating mode. In embodiments, the beam direction control system can include an actuator configured to control the rotational position of the reflective polarizer.

[0140] Furthermore, in (other) embodiments, the beam direction control system may be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by controlling the polarization of the first device light and the polarization of the second device light. To this end, the first light generating device and the second light generating device may comprise controllable optical elements, such as controllable λ / 2 retarders (see also above with respect to controlling the polarization of the device light of the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device), such that in the first operating mode, the device light has p-polarization or s-polarization, and in the second operating mode, the device light has s-polarization or p-polarization.

[0141] As indicated above, a rotatable reflective polarizer can be applied. However, in embodiments, a translatable reflective polarizer can also be applied. As indicated above, when the reflective polarizer reflects p-polarized light (in the first operating mode), and the first device light and the second device light propagate such that the mutual angle of the beams in the control region is 90°, removing the reflective polarizer (in the second operating mode) will cause the beams to be transmitted through the control region. Therefore, in specific embodiments, the beam direction control system can be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by configuring the reflective polarizer into or out of the control region.

[0142] Therefore, it is also possible to remove the reflective polarizer in the second operating mode.Thus, in fact, the same principles may also apply when applying a specular reflector instead of a reflective polarizer.

[0143] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, in which the beam direction control system includes a mirror reflection element, the beam direction control system can be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system, in particular via transmission through the control area, such as via transmission through an optical element (more particularly through a reflective polarizer), or in the absence of such an optical element (such as a reflective polarizer or a mirror reflection element), (i) in an embodiment, direct the first device light having a first pump intensity (Ip1) to the light-emitting element, and (ii) in an embodiment, direct the second device light having a first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system, via reflection within the control area, in particular at the optical element (more particularly at the reflective polarizer or the mirror reflection element), (i) in an embodiment, direct the second device light having a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light-emitting element, and (ii) in an embodiment, direct the first device light having a second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) to the diffuser element.

[0144] In particular, in an embodiment, the beam direction control system can be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by configuring the mirror reflective element (or reflective polarizer) into or out of the control area; wherein, when configured into the control area, the reflector and the first beam (B1) of the first device light can have a first mutual angle (β1), and the reflector and the second beam (B2) of the second device light can have a second mutual angle (β2), wherein, in a specific embodiment, β1=β2=45°.

[0145] Note that in an operating mode in which the optical element is configured in the control area, the first device light and the second device light can be reflected at the optical element, while when the optical element is removed from the control area, the device light of the first light generating device and the second light generating device can propagate (at a mutual angle of 90° in the control area) to the light-emitting element or the diffuser element without substantially any deflection in the control area.

[0146] Thus, in embodiments, the beam direction control system may include an actuator, wherein the beam direction control system may be configured to select a position of the optical element within or outside a control region using the actuator, wherein the control system may be configured to control the position of the optical element according to an operating mode; and wherein the optical element may include a reflective polarizer or a specular reflective element. Thus, in embodiments, the actuator may be configured to control a translational position of the reflective polarizer.

[0147] In an embodiment, the beam direction control system comprises a reflective polarizer, a mirrored reflective element or a combination of two polarization rotators for switching the beam direction.

[0148] In an embodiment, a reflective polarizer can be used and rotated so that in a first mode, first device light having a first polarization is (completely) reflected by the reflective polarizer and second device light having a second polarization is also (completely) reflected by the reflective polarizer, and in a second mode, the first device light having the first polarization is (completely) transmitted by the reflective polarizer and the second device light having the second polarization is also (completely) transmitted by the reflective polarizer.

[0149] In an embodiment, a mirror reflective element can be used and inserted and removed from the optical path of the laser beam so that in a first mode, the first device light (having a first polarization) is (completely) reflected by the mirror reflective element, and the second device light (having a second polarization) is also (completely) reflected by the mirror reflective element, and in a second mode, the first device light (having the first polarization) is (completely) transmitted by the mirror reflective element, and the second device light (having the second polarization) is also (completely) transmitted by the mirror reflective element.

[0150] In an embodiment, a combination of two polarization rotators can be used and inserted and removed relative to the reflective polarizer so that in a first mode, the first device light (having a first polarization) is (completely) reflected by the reflective polarizer and the second device light (having a second polarization) is also (completely) reflected by the reflective polarizer, and in a second mode, the first device light (having a first polarization) is (completely) transmitted by the reflective polarizer and the second device light (having a second polarization) is also (completely) transmitted by the reflective polarizer. The reason is that the polarization of the first device light and the second device light is rotated by the polarization rotator.

[0151] The light emitting element and the reflective element can be operated in a reflective mode or a transmissive mode. Although both do not have to operate in the same mode, in particular in an embodiment, the light emitting element and the reflective element can be operated in a reflective mode, or the light emitting element and the reflective element can be operated in a transmissive mode.

[0152] The transmission mode may allow for a simpler system. Further, in the transmission mode, it may be easier for the luminescent material to convert the device light substantially completely into luminescent material light than in the reflection mode. Therefore, in an embodiment, the transmission mode is selected at least for the light-emitting element, wherein the transmission of the device light by the light-emitting element is a maximum of 5%, such as a maximum of 2%, such as a maximum transmission of the device light of 1%. However, it is noted that in other embodiments, partial conversion of the light-emitting element may be selected. In the reflection mode, thermal management may be easier because a large part of the luminescent material may be in thermal contact with a heat conducting element (such as a heat sink or a thermal diffuser). Further, in the reflection mode, it may be desirable to use a dichroic mirror for combining different light beams, such as described in US7070300, which is incorporated herein by reference. Therefore, in an embodiment, the light generating system may be operated in the transmission mode or in the reflection mode.

[0153] By controlling the power to the first light generating device and the power to the second light generating device, the spectral power distribution of the system light can be selected. As indicated above, in embodiments, the system light can be white light. In embodiments, it may be desirable to maintain the system light at a certain correlated color temperature. For example, even if one of the light generating devices may exhibit time-dependent behavior, the control system can control the first and second light generating devices so as to achieve a substantially constant CCT. Thus, in embodiments, the control system can be configured to maintain the correlated color temperature of the system light within ±300K of a predetermined correlated color temperature. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, the control system can be configured to maintain the correlated color temperature of the system light within ±15 standard deviations, more particularly within ±10 SDCM, of a color match with the predetermined correlated color temperature. In particular, in embodiments, the control system can be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light.

[0154] In a specific embodiment, the first light generating device is configured to provide a blue device light, and the second light generating device is configured to provide a blue light device light. Thus, in an embodiment, a blue laser light may be applied. Further, in an embodiment, the luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion of the blue light into light having a spectral intensity within one or more wavelength ranges of a green wavelength range, a yellow wavelength range, an orange wavelength range, and a red wavelength range. In particular, the luminescent material light may have one or more wavelengths within the yellow wavelength range. Further, in a specific embodiment, the luminescent material may include a garnet-based luminescent material (see also above).

[0155] The terms "violet light" or "violet emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light with a wavelength in the range of approximately 380 to 440 nm. In specific embodiments, violet light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 380 to 440 nm. The terms "blue light" or "blue emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light with a wavelength in the range of approximately 440 to 490 nm (including some violet and cyan hues). In specific embodiments, blue light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 440 to 490 nm. The terms "green light" or "green emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light with a wavelength in the range of approximately 490 to 560 nm. In specific embodiments, green light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 490 to 560 nm. The terms "yellow light" or "yellow emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light with a wavelength in the range of approximately 560 to 590 nm. In specific embodiments, yellow light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 560 to 590 nm. The terms "orange light" or "orange emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 590 to 620 nm. In specific embodiments, the orange light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 590 to 620 nm. The terms "red light" or "red emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 620 to 750 nm. In specific embodiments, the red light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 620 to 750 nm. The terms "cyan light" or "cyan emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 490 to 520 nm. In specific embodiments, the cyan light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 490 to 520 nm. The terms "amber light" or "amber emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 585 to 605 nm, such as approximately 590 to 600 nm. In specific embodiments, the amber light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 585 to 605 nm. The phrase "light having one or more wavelengths within a wavelength range" and similar phrases may specifically indicate that the indicated light (or radiation) has a spectral power distribution having at least one or more intensities at at least these one or more wavelengths within the indicated wavelength range. For example, a solid-state light source that emits blue light will have a spectral power distribution having an intensity at one or more wavelengths within the wavelength range of 440 to 495 nm.

[0156] The term "centroid wavelength" (also indicated as λ C ) is known in the art and refers to the wavelength value at which half of the light energy is at the shorter wavelength and half of the energy is at the longer wavelength; the value is specified in nanometers (nm). It is the wavelength that divides the integral of the spectral power distribution into two equal parts, as shown in the chemical formula λ C=∑λ*I(λ) / (∑I(λ), where the summation is performed over the wavelength range of interest and I(λ) is the spectral energy density (i.e., the integral of the product of wavelength and intensity normalized to the integrated intensity over the emission band). The centroid wavelength can be determined, for example, under operating conditions.

[0157] The luminescent material may include a single luminescent material, but in other embodiments may also include two or more luminescent materials.

[0158] In an embodiment, the device light together with the luminescent material light may provide white system light. The white system light may be emitted from the system.

[0159] The luminescent material light and / or the diffuser device light may escape from the system via one or more further optical elements.Such further optical elements may be arranged downstream of the luminescent element and the diffuser element.

[0160] The term "optical device" may particularly refer to (one or more) optical elements. Therefore, the terms "optical device" and "optical element" may refer to the same item. The optical device may include one or more mirrors, reflectors, collimators, lenses, prisms, diffusers, phase plates, polarizers, diffraction elements, gratings, dichroics, arrays of one or more of the above, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the term "optical device" may refer to a holographic element or a mixing rod. In an embodiment, the optical device may include one or more of a collimator optic and a zoom lens optic. For examples of optical devices, see further above. In an embodiment, the optical device may include an integrator, such as a "Koehler integrator" (or "Koehler integrator").

[0161] The light generating system may be part of or may be used in, for example, office lighting systems, home application systems, store lighting systems, household lighting systems, accent lighting systems, spotlighting systems, theater lighting systems, fiber optic application systems, projection systems, self-illuminating display systems, pixelated display systems, segmented display systems, warning sign systems, medical lighting application systems, indicator sign systems, decorative lighting systems, portable systems, automotive applications, (outdoor) road lighting systems, urban lighting systems, greenhouse lighting systems, horticultural lighting, digital projection, or LCD backlighting. The light generating system (or luminaire) may be part of or may be used in, for example, an optical communication system or a disinfection system.

[0162] In yet another aspect, the present invention further provides a lamp or luminaire comprising a light generating system as defined herein. The luminaire may further comprise a housing, optical elements, shutters, etc. The lamp or luminaire may further comprise a housing surrounding the light generating system. The lamp or luminaire may comprise a light window or housing opening in the housing through which the system light may escape from the housing. In yet another aspect, the present invention further provides a projection device comprising a light generating system as defined herein. In particular, a projection device or "projector" or "image projector" may be an optical device that projects an image (or moving image) onto a surface (such as, for example, a projection screen). The projection device may comprise one or more light generating systems, such as those described herein. Therefore, in one aspect, the present invention further provides a light generating device selected from the group of a lamp, a luminaire, a projector device, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device, comprising a light generating system as defined herein. The light generating device may comprise a housing or carrier configured to accommodate or support one or more elements of the light generating system. For example, in embodiments, the light generating device may include a housing or carrier configured to house or support one or more of the first light generating device, the second light generating device, the luminescent material, the diffuser element, and the beam direction control system. The lighting device may also be a stage light. Thus, in one aspect, the present invention provides a lighting device selected from the group consisting of a lamp, a luminaire, a projector device, and a stage light, comprising a light generating system according to any of the preceding claims. In particular, in embodiments, the lighting device may be configured to generate system light having a correlated color temperature selected from the range of 6,000 to 10,000 Kelvin.

[0163] The terms "light" and "radiation" are used interchangeably herein, unless it is clear from the context that the term "light" refers only to visible light. Thus, the terms "light" and "radiation" may refer to UV radiation, visible light, and IR radiation. In specific embodiments, particularly for lighting applications, the terms "light" and "radiation" refer to visible light. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0164] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

[0165] Figure 1 The two modes of operation are schematically depicted, here in particular using a reflective polarizer, and applying the transmissive mode;

[0166] Figure 2 Some aspects are schematically depicted;

[0167] Figures 3a to 3b The two modes of operation are schematically depicted, here also specifically using a polarization beam splitter, and applying the reflection mode;

[0168] Figure 4 Some applications are schematically depicted; and

[0169] Figures 5a to 5c Schematic depiction of the switching of a beam direction control system using a reflective polarizer, a specular reflective element and two polarization rotators.

[0170] The schematic diagrams are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0171] Figure 1 The two modes of operation are schematically depicted, here in particular using a reflective polarizer and applying a transmission model.The figure is also used below to explain other embodiments (such as not using a reflective polarizer or using a reflective polarizer in another way than depicted).

[0172] Figure 1 An embodiment of a light generating system 1000 is schematically depicted, comprising a first light generating device 110 , a second light generating device 120 , a light emitting element 210 , a diffuser element 410 , a beam direction control system 500 and a control system 300 .

[0173] The first light generating device 110 may be configured to generate a first beam (B1) of first device light 111. Specifically, the first light generating device 110 may include a first solid-state laser light source 10. The second light generating device 120 may be configured to generate a beam (B2) of second device light 121. Specifically, the second light generating device 120 may include a second solid-state laser light source 20.

[0174] The light-emitting element 210 may include a luminescent material 200. In particular, the luminescent material 200 may enable conversion of the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 received by the luminescent material 200 into luminescent material light 201. As indicated above, depending on the embodiment and depending on the operating mode, the light-emitting element 210 may receive at least a portion of the first device light 111 and / or at least a portion of the second device light 121 (see also further below).

[0175] Diffuser element 410 can be configured to diffuse first device light 111 and / or second device light 121 received by diffuser element 410, thereby providing diffused light 411. As indicated above, depending on the embodiment and depending on the operating mode, diffuser element 410 can receive at least a portion of first device light 111 and / or at least a portion of second device light 121 (see also further below).

[0176] In particular, the beam direction control system 500 may be configured in a light receiving relationship with the first light generating device 110 and the second light generating device 120 . In an embodiment, the beam direction control system 500 can be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system 500, (i) direct a first pump portion having a first pump intensity (Ip1) of the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the light emitting element 210, and (ii) direct a first diffuser portion having a first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) of the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the diffuser element 410; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system 500, (i) direct a second pump portion having a second pump intensity (Ip2) of the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the light emitting element 210, and (ii) direct a second diffuser portion having a second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) of the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the diffuser element 410.

[0177] exist Figure 1 On the left side, an operating mode can be depicted, and Figure 1 To the right of , another mode of operation may be depicted.

[0178] In an embodiment, the first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second pump intensity (Ip2) may have different relative contributions from the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121. Alternatively or additionally, the first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) and the second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) may have different relative contributions from the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121.

[0179] In particular, the control system 300 may be configured to control the first light generating device 110 , the second light generating device 120 and the beam direction control system 500 .

[0180] In particular embodiments, the control system 300 can be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode based on one or more of a time-dependent signal, a sensor signal, and a user input.

[0181] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the light generating system 1000 may be configured to generate (white) system light 1001 including the luminescent material light 201 and the diffuse light 411. In particular, the system light 1001 may include visible light, more particularly may consist essentially of visible light. More particularly, the system light 1001 may be white system light 1001.

[0182] In an embodiment, the control system 300 may be configured to control the first light generating device 110, the second light generating device 120 and the beam direction control system 500 such that in the first operating mode, Ip1 / Id1>1, and in the second operating mode, Ip2 / Id2>1. However, other embodiments may also be possible (see also above).

[0183] In a specific embodiment, the beam direction control system 500 can be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system 500, (i) direct the first device light 111 having a first pump intensity (Ip1) to the light emitting element 210, and (ii) direct the second device light 121 having a first diffuser partial intensity (Id1) to the diffuser element 410; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system 500, (i) direct the second device light 121 having a second pump intensity (Ip2) to the light emitting element 210, and (ii) direct the first device light 111 having a second diffuser partial intensity (Id2) to the diffuser element 410.

[0184] In a specific embodiment, one or more of the following may apply: Ip1 / Id1≥1.5 and Ip2 / Id2≥1.5.

[0185] As schematically depicted, in an embodiment, beam direction control system 500 may include control region 509. In particular, during operation of light generating system 100, first device light 111 and second device light 121 propagate through control region 509 at a first mutual angle α1. In particular, α1 = 90°.

[0186] In a specific embodiment, first device light 111 may include a first polarization (P1), and second device light 121 may (also) include a first polarization (P1). Thus, in an embodiment, first device light 111 and second device light 121 have the same polarization.

[0187] In an embodiment, the beam direction control system 500 may include a reflective polarizer 510 configured to reflect light having a first polarization (P1) (see Figure 1 Here, both the first device light 111 and the second device light 121 are reflected at the reflective polarizer 510. In specific embodiments also further described below, a specular reflector 520 may be applied instead of the reflective polarizer 510 (see also below). Figure 1 In the depicted embodiment, (effectively) a reflective polarizer 510 or a specular reflector 520 is employed.

[0188] In a specific embodiment, the beam direction control system 500 can be configured to: (a) in a first operating mode of the beam direction control system 500, (i) direct the first device light 111 having the first polarization (P1) to the light emitting element 210, and (ii) direct the second device light 121 having the first polarization (P1) to the diffuser element 410; and (b) in a second operating mode of the beam direction control system 500, (i) direct the second device light 121 having the first polarization (P1) to the light emitting element 210, and (ii) direct the first device light 111 having the first polarization (P1) to the diffuser element 410.

[0189] In embodiments assuming a reflective polarizer 510, in particular embodiments, the beam direction control system 500 can be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by rotating the reflective polarizer 510. Figure 1 , on the right, a reflective polarizer 510 configured to reflect light having a first polarization (P1) reflects light having the first polarization (P1). However, when the reflective polarizer is rotated 90°, the reflective polarizer 510 can effectively be substantially transmissive for light having the first polarization (and reflective for light having a second polarization).

[0190] Assuming that the device light 111, 121 has p-polarization, in the operating mode (see right), the reflective polarizer can be reflective for the p-polarized device light 111, 121, while transmitting the same light if it is s-polarized. After being rotated by more than 90°, the same reflective polarizer can be transparent for the p-polarized device light 111, 121, while reflecting the same light if it is s-polarized. Of course, this can also be chosen in reverse, that is, assuming that the device light 111, 121 has s-polarization, in the operating mode, the reflective polarizer can be reflective for the s-polarized device light 111, 121, while transmitting the same light if it is p-polarized.

[0191] Figure 1 The dashed line on the center left (also indicated by reference numerals 540, 510, and 520) may refer to the reflective polarizer 510 rotated 90°, or to the specular reflector 520 removed.

[0192] From the above, it can be derived that switching the polarization from reflective to non-reflective by rotating the reflective polarizer 510 can alternatively be accomplished by keeping the reflective polarizer 510 in its position (at least partially in the control region 509) without rotation, but changing the polarization of the device light 111, 121 from the first polarization (P1) to the second polarization (P2) (e.g., from p-polarization to s-polarization or vice versa) (see also below at FIG3 ). Thus, in an embodiment, the beam direction control system 500 can be configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by controlling the polarization of the first device light 111 and the polarization of the second device light 121. For this purpose, for example, a λ / 2 retarder can be applied (see also below, for example).

[0193] It can also be derived from the above that switching a specific polarization from reflective to non-reflective by rotating the reflective polarizer 510 can alternatively be accomplished by using a reflective configuration, where the device light 111, 121 having a first polarization is reflected at the reflective polarizer in a first operating mode, and the reflective polarizer 510 is removed from the control region 509, effectively providing a transmissive mode. The same principle can be applied to the specular reflective element 520.

[0194] Thus, in particular embodiments, the beam direction control system 500 may include an actuator 550. In particular, in embodiments, the beam direction control system 500 may be configured to select a position of the optical element 540 within or outside the control region 509 using the actuator. In particular, the control system 300 may be configured to control the position of the optical element 540 depending on the operating mode. In particular embodiments, the optical element 540 may (therefore) in embodiments include a reflective polarizer 510 or a mirror reflective element 520. Reference Figure 1 , a first operating mode may be depicted on the left, e.g., the optical element 540 is configured outside the control area 509, and a second operating mode may be depicted on the right, with the optical element 540 configured within the control area 508. The external configuration of the optical element 540 is indicated by a dashed line (referenced by reference numeral 540).

[0195] refer to Figure 1 , optical element 540 may include two parallel major faces. First device light 111 may be reflected at one of these faces, and second device light 121 may be reflected at the other of these faces.

[0196] The beam direction control system 500 can be configured to control the first mode of operation and the second mode of operation by placing the reflective polarizer 510 in or outside the control area 509. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the reflective polarizer 510 can be Figure 1 The right side of the configuration is configured in the control area 509, and Figure 1The left side configuration is not configured in the control area 509 (see the dotted line on the left).

[0197] The same may apply to the use of specular reflective elements. Figure 1 In a different embodiment, a mirror reflective element 520 is applied instead of the reflective polarizer 510, so that the mirror reflective element 520 can be Figure 1 The right side of the configuration is configured in the control area 509, and Figure 1 In the left configuration of FIG, the mirror element 520 is not configured in the control area 509 (see dashed line). Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the beam direction control system 500 can be configured to control the first operation mode and the second operation mode by configuring the mirror reflective element 520 inside or outside the control area 509.

[0198] like Figure 1 As shown, when configured within control area 509, reflector 509 and first beam (B1) of first device light 111 have a first mutual angle β1, and reflector 509 and second beam (B2) of second device light 121 have a second mutual angle β2. Specifically, β1 = β2 = 45°.

[0199] In an embodiment, the control system 300 may be configured to maintain the correlated color temperature of the system light 1001 within ±300K and / or ±10 standard deviations of a color match to a predetermined correlated color temperature.

[0200] In a specific embodiment, the control system 300 can be configured to change from one mode to another mode after a predetermined operating time. In an embodiment, the predetermined operating time can be selected from a range of 500 to 10,000 hours, such as from a range of at least 2,000 hours. However, other values ​​may also be possible.

[0201] In a particular embodiment, the light generating system 1000 may further include a sensor 310. In particular, the sensor 310 may be configured to generate a sensor signal related to the absolute or relative contribution of the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the system light 1001. The control system 300 may switch from one mode to another based on this.

[0202] Further, in a specific embodiment, the control system 300 may be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light 1001. In an embodiment, the system light 1001 may have a correlated color temperature selected from the range of 6000 to 10000K.

[0203] exist Figure 1In FIG, reference numeral 490 refers to a beam shaping element. The beam shaping element 490 may include one or more lenses and / or one or more collimators. Thus, other optical devices are available, for example, to beam shape the system light 1001 escaping from the system 1000.

[0204] Reference numeral 610 refers to a heat sink or other heat conducting element. Here, the heat conducting element 610 may surround the light emitting element 210 and / or the diffuser element 410.

[0205] Figure 2 The intensity of device light 1001 is schematically depicted when operating at maximum capacity Im and at a lower power. After a certain time, the devices can be switched, and another device can be operated at maximum capacity I*m. Of course, operating at maximum capacity is not required, but is an option. The devices can be operated in such a way that the spectral power distribution of system light 1001 remains substantially constant.

[0206] In an embodiment, the light generating system 1000 can operate in a transmissive mode or a reflective mode. Figure 1 In FIG. 3 , the system 1000 is operated in a transmissive mode, in particular the light emitting element 210 and the diffuser element 410 are operated in a transmissive mode. However, the light emitting element 210 and the diffuser element 410 can also be operated in a reflective mode, see FIG. 3 .

[0207] For reflective mode, a dichroic mirror may be arranged between the reflective diffuser element 410 and the light emitting element 210, such as described in US7070300, which is incorporated herein by reference. Further, an optical unit may be arranged between the reflective polarizer and the diffuser to diffuse and rotate the polarization of the (blue) device light.

[0208] Figures 3a to 3b Two modes of another embodiment are schematically depicted. Figure 1 The embodiments of are substantially overlapping. It can also be applied to Figure 1 3 and similar embodiments are, for example, a laser group, an optical device (located directly downstream of the light sources 10, 20), a beam homogenizer 402 (located downstream of the respective light sources 10, 20 and indicated by reference numerals 571 and 572), a further beam homogenizer 402 (as an embodiment of a beam shaping element 490), a polarizer 570 (indicated by reference numerals 572 and 571, respectively (located downstream of the first light source 10 and upstream of the second light source 20, respectively), and the optical device 401.

[0209] The polarizers 570 can in particular be λ / 2 retarders. In embodiments, they can be controllable. One or more actuators 550 can be used to control such retarders. Further, the optical element 540 used to guide the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the light-emitting element 210 in the operating mode can in particular be a polarization beam splitter 530 indicated by reference numeral 531, which can in particular be reflective for the device light 111, 121, but transmissive for at least a portion of the luminescent material light 201. A similar type of polarization beam splitter 530 can be configured to guide the first device light 111 and / or the second device light 121 to the diffuser element 410 and is indicated by reference numeral 532. The diffuser element 410 here is a reflective diffuser. Another additional polarizer 570 is a λ / 2 retarder 573 arranged between the two polarization beam splitters 531, 532.

[0210] 3 , polarization beam splitter 530 (used to guide first device light 111 and / or second device light 121 to light emitting element 210 in an operating mode, i.e., polarization beam splitter 531) may include two parallel main faces. First device light 111 may be reflected at one of these faces, and second device light 121 may be reflected at the other of these faces.

[0211] Reference numeral 480 refers to a dichroic reflector, reference numeral 481 indicates a first dichroic reflector, which can be particularly transmissive for the first device light 111 but reflective for at least a portion of the luminescent material light 201, and reference numeral 482 indicates a second dichroic reflector, which can be particularly transmissive for at least a portion of the luminescent material light 201 and reflective for the second device light 121 (and also reflective for the first device light 111), and therefore also reflective for the diffuse light 411.

[0212] Reference numeral 462 refers to a λ / 4 retarder. For efficiency reasons, a combination of the λ / 4 retarder 462 and the polarization beam splitter 532 is desirable.

[0213] As mentioned above, several options are possible for controlling the propagation of the first device light 111 and the second device light 121. In an embodiment, all λ2 retarders 571, 572, 573 may be rotated, in particular by more than 90°, thereby changing the polarization of the device light 111, 121.

[0214] Figure 4 Schematically depicted is an embodiment of a luminaire 2 comprising the above-described light generating system 1000. Reference numeral 301 indicates a user interface, which may be functionally coupled to a control system 300 consisting of the light generating system 1000 or functionally coupled thereto. Figure 4 Also schematically depicted is an embodiment of a lamp 1 comprising a light generating system 1000. Reference numeral 3 indicates a projector device or projector system, which can be used to project an image, such as on a wall, which may also comprise the light generating system 1000. Thus, Figure 4 An embodiment of a lighting device 1200 selected from the group consisting of a lamp 1, a luminaire 2, a projector device 4, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device is schematically depicted, including the light generating system 1000 described herein. In embodiments, such a lighting device may be a lamp 1, a luminaire 2, a projector device 3, a disinfection device, or an optical wireless communication device. Lighting device light escaping from lighting device 1200 is indicated by reference numeral 1201. Lighting device light 1201 may essentially consist of system light 1001 and, therefore, in specific embodiments, may be system light 1001. Reference numeral 1300 refers to a space, such as a room. Reference numeral 1305 refers to the floor, and reference numeral 1310 refers to the ceiling; reference numeral 1307 refers to a wall.

[0215] The lighting device 1200 may also include a stage light. Thus, in an embodiment, the lighting device 1200 may be selected from the group consisting of a lamp 1, a luminaire 2, a projector device 3, and a stage light, and include a light generating system 1000. In a specific embodiment, the lighting device 1200 may be configured to generate system light 1001 (having a correlated color temperature selected from the range of 6000 to 10000 K).

[0216] Figures 5a to 5c Schematically depicts the use of a reflective polarizer 510 ( Figure 5a ), mirror reflection element 520 ( Figure 5b ) and two polarization rotators 590 ( Figure 5c ) embodiment of a beam direction control system and switching of the beam direction thereof.

[0217] like Figure 5a , the reflective polarizer 510 is rotated so that in a first mode, first device light 111 having a first polarization P1 is (completely) reflected by the reflective polarizer 510, and second device light 112 having a second polarization P2 is also (completely) reflected by the reflective polarizer 510, and in a second mode, first device light 111 having the first polarization P1 is (completely) transmitted by the reflective polarizer 510, and second device light 112 having the second polarization P2 is also (completely) transmitted by the reflective polarizer 510.

[0218] like Figure 5bAs depicted in , a mirror reflective element 520 is inserted and removed from the optical path of the laser beam, so that in a first mode, the first device light 111 (having the first polarization P1) is (completely) reflected by the mirror reflective element 520, and the second device light 112 (having the second polarization P2) is also (completely) reflected by the mirror reflective element 520, and in a second mode, the first device light 111 (having the first polarization P1) is (completely) transmitted by the mirror reflective element 520, and the second device light 112 (having the second polarization P2) is also (completely) transmitted by the mirror reflective element 520.

[0219] like Figure 5c , a combination of inserting and removing two polarization rotators 590 relative to reflective polarizer 510 is such that in a first mode, first device light 111 (having first polarization P1) is (completely) reflected by reflective polarizer 510, and second device light 112 (having second polarization P2) is also (completely) reflected by reflective polarizer 510, and in a second mode, first device light 111 (having first polarization P1) is (completely) transmitted by reflective polarizer 510, and second device light 112 (having second polarization P2) is also (completely) transmitted by reflective polarizer 510. The reason is that the polarizations of the first device light and the second device light are rotated by the polarization rotators.

[0220] The term "plurality" means two or more.

[0221] The terms "substantially" or "substantially" and similar terms herein will be understood by those skilled in the art. The terms "substantially" or "substantially" may also include embodiments with "entirely," "completely," "entirely," etc. Thus, in embodiments, the adjectives "substantially" or "substantially" may also be removed. Where applicable, the terms "substantially" or "substantially" may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, particularly 99% or higher, even more particularly 99.5% or higher, including 100%.

[0222] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments wherein the term "comprising" means "consisting of.

[0223] The term "and / or" specifically refers to one or more items mentioned before and after "and / or". For example, the phrase "item 1 and / or item 2" and similar phrases can refer to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" can refer to "consisting of" in one embodiment, but can also refer to "comprising at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species" in another embodiment.

[0224] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third, etc. in the description and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0225] An apparatus, device or system may be described herein as being in operation. As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, the present invention is not limited to methods of operation or apparatus, device or system in operation.

[0226] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0227] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

[0228] The use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," etc. are to be construed in an inclusive sense rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to."

[0229] The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0230] The present invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim or an apparatus claim or a system claim enumerating several components, several of these components may be implemented by one and the same item of hardware. The fact that certain measures are listed in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. In a further aspect, the present invention (therefore) provides a software product which, when run on a computer, is capable of implementing (one or more embodiments of) the method described herein.

[0231] The present invention also provides a control system that can control an apparatus, device, or system, or can perform the methods or processes described herein. Furthermore, the present invention also provides a computer program product that, when executed on a computer functionally coupled to or consisting of an apparatus, device, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such an apparatus, device, or system.

[0232] The present invention also applies to an apparatus, device or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and / or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention also relates to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0233] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the embodiments can be combined, and more than two embodiments can also be combined. In addition, some features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

[0234] Laser remote phosphor technology can be used in high-brightness applications such as automotive and stage lighting. In this article, a blue laser light source can pump a remote phosphor to provide yellow-converted light. Another blue laser light source can project blue laser light onto a diffuser (for safety purposes) to provide blue diffused light. The yellow-converted light and the blue diffused light can be combined downstream through suitable optical devices (such as one or more dichroic elements) to obtain white light. Both the phosphor and the diffuser can be used in transmission or reflection mode. It is expected to improve the performance of laser-phosphor technology, particularly for providing high-brightness white light. Among them, this article proposes the use of a system that includes a first blue laser light source B1 that provides a first beam B1 of first (P) polarized blue laser light of a first intensity (I1), a second blue laser light source (S2) that provides a second beam B2 of second (P) polarized blue laser light of a second intensity (I2), a phosphor element, a diffuser element, a reflective polarizer, and a controller for separately controlling the first polarized P blue laser light provided by the first blue laser light source and the second polarized P blue laser light provided by the second blue laser light source. B1 can be arranged at 90 degrees relative to B2. The reflective polarizer is positioned at a 45° angle relative to B1 and B2. In embodiments, the polarization reflection of the reflective polarizer can be changed from P-polarization reflection to S-polarization reflection (and / or vice versa). Alternatively, the highly reflective specular mirror can be removed and inserted at a 45° angle relative to B1 and B2. The resulting effect can be improved performance, i.e., an increase in lifetime. In embodiments, the power ratio between the pump light and the blue light can be >1. At maximum laser power, the laser output decreases significantly over lifetime (i.e., I m is maintained over time), while when the laser is driven at a lower power, the laser lifetime is much higher, e.g., a 35% vs. 5% brightness decrease. In embodiments, the reflective polarizer can be rotated 90 degrees, or a polarization rotation element can be positioned between the laser light source and the reflective polarizer. The controller can (simultaneously) vary the I1 / I2 ratio, e.g., to maintain a constant correlated color temperature (CCT), or within a predetermined CCT range, e.g., from 6000 to 10000 K, e.g., to make the system CCT tunable. At the start of each use, it is possible to (automatically) switch between the two settings. Alternatively, a clock module with a predefined duration (e.g., 5000 hours) can be used to automatically (e.g., electrically or mechanically) change the polarization of the reflective polarizer by the user. When switching the source to correct for a drop, a database with 1 m maintenance data can be used to optimize the driving settings.

Claims

1. A light generating system (1000), comprising a first light generating device (110), a second light generating device (120), a light emitting element (210), a diffuser element (410), a beam direction control system (500), and a control system (300), wherein: The first light generating device (110) is configured to generate a first beam (B1) of first device light (111), wherein the first light generating device (110) comprises a first solid-state laser light source (10); The second light generating device (120) is configured to generate a second beam (B2) of second device light (121), wherein the second light generating device (120) comprises a second solid-state laser light source (20); The first device light (111) comprises a first polarization (P1), and the second device light (121) comprises the first polarization (P1); The light-emitting element (210) includes a luminescent material (200), wherein the luminescent material (200) is capable of converting the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) received by the luminescent material (200) into luminescent material light (201); The diffuser element (410) is configured to diffuse the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) received by the diffuser element (410), thereby providing diffused light (411); The beam direction control system (500) is arranged in a light receiving relationship with the first light generating device (110) and the second light generating device (120), and is configured to: In a first operating mode of the beam direction control system (500), (i) a first pump portion of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) having a first pump intensity (Ip1) is directed to the light emitting element (210), and (ii) a first diffuser portion of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) having a first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) is directed to the diffuser element (410); as well as In a second operating mode of the beam direction control system (500), (i) a second pump portion of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) having a second pump intensity (Ip2) is directed to the light emitting element (210), and (ii) a second diffuser portion of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) having a second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) is directed to the diffuser element (410); The first pump intensity (Ip1) and the second pump intensity (Ip2) have different relative contributions of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121); and the first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) and the second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) have different relative contributions of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121); The beam direction control system (500) further comprises a reflective polarizer (510) configured to reflect light having a first polarization (P1), and the beam direction control system (500) is further configured to: In the first operating mode of the beam direction control system (500), (i) first device light (111) having the first polarization (P1) is directed to the light emitting element (210), and (ii) second device light (121) having the first polarization (P1) is directed to the diffuser element (410); as well as In the second operating mode of the beam direction control system (500), (i) second device light (121) having the first polarization (P1) is directed to the light emitting element (210), and (ii) first device light (111) having the first polarization (P1) is directed to the diffuser element (410); The control system (300) is configured to control the first light generating device (110), the second light generating device (120) and the beam direction control system (500); and The light generating system (1000) is configured to generate system light (1001) including the luminescent material light (201) and the diffuse light (411).

2. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the first light generating device (110), the second light generating device (120) and the beam direction control system (500) so that in the first operating mode, Ip1 / Id1>1, and in the second operating mode, Ip2 / Id2>1; and wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode based on one or more of a time-related signal, a sensor signal and a user input.

3. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system light (1001) is white system light (1001), and wherein the beam direction control system (500) is configured to: In the first operating mode of the beam direction control system (500), (i) first device light (111) having the first pump intensity (Ip1) is directed to the light emitting element (210), and (ii) second device light (121) having the first diffuser portion intensity (Id1) is directed to the diffuser element (410); and In the second operating mode of the beam direction control system (500), (i) second device light (121) having the second pump intensity (Ip2) is directed to the light emitting element (210), and (ii) first device light (111) having the second diffuser portion intensity (Id2) is directed to the diffuser element (410).

4. The light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam direction control system (500) comprises a control region (509), wherein during operation of the light generating system (1000), the first device light (111) and the second device light (121) propagate through the control region (509) at a first mutual angle (α1), wherein α1 = 90°.

5. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light emitting element (210) comprises a luminophore comprising a ceramic luminescent material.

6. The light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam direction control system (500) is configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by rotating the reflective polarizer (510).

7. A light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam direction control system (500) is configured to control the first operating mode and the second operating mode by controlling the polarization of the first device light (111) and the polarization of the second device light (121).

8. A light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the beam direction control system (500) includes an actuator (550), wherein the beam direction control system (500) is configured to select a position of the optical element (540) inside or outside the control area (509) using the actuator (550), wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the position of the optical element (540) according to the operating mode; and wherein the optical element (540) includes a reflective polarizer (510) or a mirror reflective element (520) according to any of claims 5 to 6.

9. The light generating system (1000) of any preceding claim, wherein the control system (300) is configured to maintain the correlated color temperature of the system light (1001) within ±300K and / or ±10 standard deviations of a color matching a predetermined correlated color temperature.

10. The light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system light (1001) has a correlated color temperature selected from the range of 6000 to 10,000 K; and wherein the light generating system (1000) is operated in a transmissive mode or a reflective mode.

11. The light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein Ip1 / Id1 ≥ 1.5, and wherein Ip2 / Id2 ≥ 1.

5.

12. The light generating system (1000) of any preceding claim, wherein the control system (300) is configured to change from one mode to another mode after a predetermined operating time; wherein the predetermined operating time is selected from a range of at least 2000 hours.

13. The light generating system (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a sensor (310), wherein the sensor (310) is configured to generate a sensor signal related to the absolute or relative contribution of the first device light (111) and / or the second device light (121) to the system light (1001).

14. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light (1001).

15. A lighting device (1200) selected from the group consisting of a lamp (1), a luminaire (2), a projector device (3) and a stage light, comprising a light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lighting device (1200) is configured to generate system light (1001).

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