Laser light engine with rotating cylinder

Abstract

The invention provides a light generation system (1000) comprising a light generation device (100) and a light conversion system (2000) wherein: (A) the light generation device (100) is configured to generate device light (101); wherein the light generating device (100) comprises a solid state light source, wherein the solid state light source comprises one or more of a laser light source and a super light emitting diode; (B) the light conversion system (2000) comprises a light-transmitting body (2100) and a luminescent material (200); (C) the translucent body (2100) is configured to be rotatable about the axis of rotation (A); the light transmissive body (2100) comprises (i) an outer face (2110) configured to be a distance (r1) from the axis of rotation (A), and (ii) an inner portion (2120) surrounded by the outer face (2110) wherein at least a portion of the inner portion (2120) is light transmissive to the device light (101); (D) the luminescent material (200) is configured to convert at least a portion of the device light (101) received by the luminescent material (200) into luminescent material light (201); wherein the luminescent material (200) is disposed at a portion of the outer face (2110); and (E) the light generating system (1000) is configured such that during operation of the light generating system (1000), during at least part of the time, at least part of the device light illuminates at least part of the luminescent material (200) from the inner portion (2120).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a light generating system and a lighting device comprising the 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 light path adjustment device or a second light 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 emitted light. All light emitted by the first light source is used to excite the wavelength conversion device.

[0003] US2022 / 290842A1 discloses a lighting device comprising a first laser light source configured to generate first light source light. The device also comprises a first yellow / green luminescent material and a second orange / red luminescent material. The first yellow / green luminescent material is configured to convert at least a portion of the first light source light into first luminescent material light, and the second orange / red luminescent material is configured to convert a portion of the first luminescent material light into second luminescent material light. The first laser light source, the first luminescent material, and the second luminescent material are configured such that the first light source light can only reach the second luminescent material after being scattered by the first luminescent material, and a first thermally conductive element is in thermal contact with the first and second luminescent materials.

[0004] EP2677233B1 discloses a lamp with LEDs and a remote phosphor converter. The lamp comprises a heat sink base with a radiation exit opening, a light-emitting diode (LED) fixed to the periphery of the opening, and a radiation converter in the form of a concave layer of phosphor material arranged in series at a distance from the LED. The cavity of the concave layer faces the LED and the exit opening. As LED light passes through the converter, the converted light mixes and exits through the phosphor layer. Light from the LED incident on the surface of the luminescent converter is partially converted to produce white light. Summary of the Invention

[0005] 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 straightforward approach to using a laser to produce white light is to use a laser in combination with the phosphor converted light. However, thermal aspects at high powers can be a problem. Other problems associated with such laser light sources can come with the need to produce compact high power devices. In addition, the controllability of the spectral power distribution can also be a problem. Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative light generating system, which preferably further at least partially eliminates one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages. It is an object of the present invention 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 ("system") comprising a light generating device and a light conversion system. Specifically, the light generating device can be configured to generate device light. In certain embodiments, the light generating device can include a solid-state light source. However, in certain embodiments, the solid-state light source includes one or more of a laser light source and a superluminescent diode. In certain embodiments, the light conversion system can include a light-transmitting body and a luminescent material. In certain embodiments, the light-transmitting body can be configured to rotate about a rotation axis (or rotation axis). In certain embodiments, the light-transmitting body can include (i) an outer surface, specifically disposed at a distance (r1) from the rotation axis (A), and (ii) an inner portion surrounded by the outer surface. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the inner portion is transmissive to the device light. Specifically, the luminescent material can be configured to convert at least a portion of the device light received by the luminescent material into luminescent material light. In certain embodiments, the luminescent material can be disposed at a portion of the outer surface. In specific embodiments, the light generating system can be configured such that, during operation of the light generating system, at least a portion of the device light can illuminate at least a portion of the luminescent material from the inner portion for at least a portion of the time. Therefore, in an embodiment, the present invention provides a light generating system comprising a light generating device and a light conversion system, wherein: (A) the light generating device is configured to generate device light; wherein the light generating device comprises a solid-state light source, wherein the solid-state light source comprises one or more of a laser light source and a superluminescent diode; (B) the light conversion system comprises a light-transmitting body and a luminescent material; (C) the light-transmitting body is configured to be rotatable around a rotation axis (A); the light-transmitting body comprises (i) an outer surface, which is configured to be a distance (r1) away from the rotation axis (A), and (ii) an inner portion surrounded by the outer surface, wherein at least a portion of the inner portion is translucent to the device light; (D) the luminescent material is configured to convert at least a portion of the device light received by the luminescent material into luminescent material light; wherein the luminescent material is configured at a portion of the outer surface; and (E) the light generating system is configured such that during operation of the light generating system, at least a portion of the device light illuminates at least a portion of the luminescent material from the inner portion for at least a portion of the time.

[0007] With such a system, the thermal load of the phosphor can be reduced and / or distributed over different phosphor parts. However, the rotatable light-transmitting body allows for good thermal management of the phosphor. Alternatively or additionally, with such a system, the spectral power distribution of the (system) light escaping from the system can be controlled. Furthermore, the system can allow for light to be generated at relatively high powers. However, the system can allow for a relatively compact system with relatively good thermal management. Furthermore, with the system, different phosphors can be spatially separated. This also allows for the phosphors to have different temperatures, whereby the system performance can be improved. Therefore, the present invention provides, inter alia, a (tunable) laser light engine with a rotating cylinder or rotating rod.

[0008] As described above, the present invention particularly provides a light generating system comprising a light generating device and a light conversion system. Embodiments of the light generating device and the light conversion system are described below. Specific embodiments of the light conversion system are also described below, optionally including an optical device.

[0009] The light generating device may in particular be configured to generate device light. In particular, the light generating device may comprise a light source. The light source may in particular be configured to generate light source light. In embodiments, the device light may essentially consist of light source light. In other embodiments, the device light may essentially consist of converted light source light. In other embodiments, the device light may comprise (unconverted) light source light and converted light source light. The light source light may be converted into luminescent material light with a luminescent material and / or into upconverted light with an upconverter (see also below). The term "light generating device" may also refer to a plurality of light generating devices that can provide device light with essentially the same spectral power distribution. In (other) specific embodiments, the term "light generating device" may also refer to a plurality of light generating devices that can provide device light with different spectral power distributions.

[0010] The term "light source" can in principle relate to any light source known in the art. It can be a conventional (tungsten) bulb, a low-pressure mercury lamp, a high-pressure mercury lamp, a fluorescent lamp, an LED (light emitting diode). In a specific embodiment, the light source comprises a solid-state LED light source (such as an LED or a laser diode (or "diode laser")). The term "light source" can also relate to a plurality of light sources, for example a 2-2000 (solid-state) LED light source. Therefore, the term LED can also refer to a plurality of LEDs. In addition, the term "light source" can also refer to a so-called chip-on-board (COB) light source in an embodiment. The term "COB" refers in particular to an LED chip in the form of a semiconductor chip that is neither packaged nor connected but directly mounted on a substrate such as a PCB. Therefore, a plurality of light-emitting semiconductor light sources can be arranged on the same substrate. In an embodiment, a COB is a plurality of LED chips that are configured together as a single lighting module.

[0011] The term "light source" may also refer to a chip-scale package (CSP). A CSP may include a single solid-state die with a layer comprising a luminescent material disposed thereon. The term "light source" may also refer to a medium-power package. A medium-power package may include one or more solid-state dies. The die may be covered by a layer comprising a luminescent material. The die size may be equal to or less than 2 mm, for example, within a range of 0.2-2 mm. Thus, in embodiments, the light source comprises a solid-state light source. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the light source comprises a chip-scale package LED. Here, the term "light source" may also specifically refer to a small solid-state light source, such as one having a small or micro size. For example, the light source may include one or more mini-LEDs and micro-LEDs. In particular, in embodiments, the light source comprises a micro-LED, or "microLED," or "μLED." Here, the terms mini-size or mini-LED particularly refer to a solid-state light source having dimensions (e.g., die size, particularly length and width) selected from the range of 100 μm-1 mm. Here, the terms μ-size or micro-LED particularly refer to a solid-state light source having dimensions (e.g., die size, particularly length and width) selected from the range of 100 μm and smaller.

[0012] A light source may have a light exit surface. With reference to conventional light sources, such as light bulbs or fluorescent lamps, this may be the outer surface of a glass or quartz housing. For an LED, this may be, for example, the LED die, or, when a resin is applied to the LED die, the outer surface of the resin. In principle, it may also be the terminal end of an optical fiber. The term exit surface particularly relates to the part of the light source where light actually leaves the light source or escapes from the light source. The light source is configured to provide a light beam. This light beam (therefore) escapes from the light exit surface of the light source.

[0013] Likewise, the light generating device may comprise a light escape surface, such as an end window. Furthermore, likewise, the light generating system may comprise a light escape surface, such as an end window.

[0014] 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 (PMOLED) or an active matrix (AMOLED). In certain embodiments, the light source comprises a solid-state light source (such as an LED or a laser diode). In one embodiment, 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).

[0015] The term LED may also refer to a plurality of LEDs.

[0016] The term "light source" may also refer to a plurality of (substantially identical (or different)) light sources, such as 2-2000 solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the light source may comprise one or more micro-optical elements (micro-lens arrays) downstream of a single solid-state light source (such as an LED) or downstream of a plurality of solid-state light sources (i.e., for example, shared by a plurality of LEDs). 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).

[0017] In an embodiment, the light source can be configured to provide a primary radiation that is used as is, for example, a blue light source such as a blue LED, or a green light source such as a green LED, and a red light source such as a red LED. Such LEDs that may not include a luminescent material ("phosphor") may be denoted as direct color LEDs.

[0018] 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 expressed as luminescent material radiation. In an embodiment, the luminescent material can be included by the light source, such as an LED having a luminescent material layer or a dome comprising a luminescent material. Such an LED can be expressed as a phosphor-converted LED or a PC LED (phosphor-converted LED). In other embodiments, the luminescent material can be configured at a certain distance ("far") from the light source, such as an LED having a luminescent material layer that is not in physical contact with the die of the LED. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the light source can be a light source that emits at least light of a wavelength selected from the range of 380-470 nm during operation. However, other wavelengths are also possible. The light can be partially converted by the luminescent material.

[0019] 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 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 certain 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.

[0020] The light source may in particular be configured to generate source light having an optical axis (O) (beam shape) and a spectral power distribution. In embodiments, the source light may comprise one or more frequency bands having a known bandwidth of the laser.

[0021] The term "light source" may (thus) refer to a light generating element such as a solid-state light source, or to a package of a light generating element such as a solid-state light source, and one or more elements comprising luminescent material and (other) optical devices such as lenses, collimators. A light converter element ("converter element" or "converter") may comprise an element comprising luminescent material. For example, a solid-state light source such as a blue LED is a light source. A combination of a solid-state light source (as a light generating element) and a light converter element optically coupled to the solid-state light source (such as a blue LED and a light converter element) may also be a light source (but may also be denoted as a light generating device). Thus, a white light LED is a light source (but may also be denoted as a (white) light generating device, for example).

[0022] 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.

[0023] Thus, in embodiments, the term "light source" may 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 a combination of a (diode) laser and a luminescent material configured to convert at least part of the (diode) laser radiation.

[0024] 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 light generated by the light source. In particular, the term "light generating device" may be used to describe a light source and other (optical components), such as optical filters and / or beam shaping elements.

[0025] The phrases "different light sources" or "a plurality of different light sources" and similar phrases may refer, in embodiments, to a plurality of solid-state light sources selected from at least two different bins. Similarly, the phrases "the same light source" or "a plurality of the same light sources" and similar phrases may refer, in embodiments, to a plurality of solid-state light sources selected from the same bin.

[0026] The terms "solid-state light source" or "solid-state material light source" and similar terms may particularly refer to semiconductor light sources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes or superluminescent diodes.

[0027] The term "laser source" refers in particular to a laser. Such a laser can be configured to generate laser light having one or more wavelengths in the UV, visible, or infrared, particularly a wavelength selected from the spectral wavelength range of 200-2000 nm, for example, 300-1500 nm. The term "laser" refers in particular to a device that emits light via a light amplification process based on stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation.

[0028] In particular, in embodiments, the term "laser" may refer to a solid-state laser. In certain embodiments, the term "laser" or "laser light source" or similar terms refers to a laser diode (or diode laser).

[0029] 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 one or more of the following: cerium-doped lithium strontium (or calcium) aluminum fluoride (Ce:LiSAF, Ce:LiCAF), chromium-doped chrysoberyl (Alexandrite) laser, chromium-zinc alloy (Cr:ZnSe) laser, divalent samarium-doped calcium fluoride (Sm:CaF2) laser, Er:YAG laser, erbium-doped and erbium-ytterbium laser. Co-doped glass lasers, F-center lasers, holmium YAG (Ho:YAG) lasers, Nd:YAG lasers, NdCrYAG lasers, neodymium-doped yttrium calcium borate Nd:YCa4O(BO3)3 or Nd:YCOB, neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (Nd:YVO4) lasers, neodymium glass (Nd:glass) lasers, neodymium YLF (Nd:YLF) solid-state lasers, promethium 147-doped phosphate glass (147Pm 3+ : glass) solid-state lasers, ruby ​​lasers (Al2O3:Cr + ), Thulium YAG (Tm:YAG) laser, Titanium Sapphire (Ti: Sapphire; Al2O3:Ti 3+ ) lasers, trivalent uranium calcium fluoride (U:CaF2) solid-state lasers, ytterbium-doped glass lasers (rods, plates / chips, optical fibers), ytterbium YAG (Yb:YAG lasers, Yb2O3 (glass or ceramic) lasers, etc.

[0030] For example, in embodiments including second and third harmonic generation, the light source may include one or more of the following: a 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+ For example, such a light source can be used to generate blue light, taking into account second and third harmonic generation.

[0031] 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 salt, vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), quantum cascade laser, hybrid silicon laser, etc.

[0032] 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.

[0033] As can be derived from the following, 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 N (identical) laser light sources. In an embodiment, N=2 or greater. In a specific embodiment, N may be at least 5, for example in particular at least 8. In this way, a higher brightness can be obtained. In an embodiment, the laser light sources may be arranged in a laser group (see also above). In an embodiment, the laser group may include heat dissipation and / or optical devices, for example, lenses, to collimate the laser. Therefore, in an embodiment, the lasers in a laser group (or "laser array group") may share the same optical devices.

[0034] The laser light source is configured to generate laser light source light (or "laser light"). The light source light may consist essentially 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 certain embodiments, the light source light is therefore particularly collimated light source light. In other embodiments, the light source light is particularly (collimated) laser light source light.

[0035] In embodiments, the laser source light may include one or more frequency bands having a known bandwidth of the laser. In certain embodiments, the band(s) may be relatively sharp lines, e.g., having a full width at half maximum (FWHM) within a range of less than 20 nm at RT, e.g., 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.

[0036] The beam (of the light source light) may be a focused or collimated beam of the (laser) light source light. The term "focused" refers in particular to converging into a small spot. The small spot may be 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 of the beam at (laterally) the discrete converter region (perpendicular to the optical axis) is substantially no larger than the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the discrete converter region (where the light source light illuminates 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 laser light. Collimation may be performed using one or more (other) optical devices, such as collimating elements, for example lenses and / or parabolic mirrors. In embodiments, the beam of the (laser) light source light may be relatively highly collimated, such as, in embodiments, ≤2° (FWHM), more particularly ≤1° (FWHM), and most particularly ≤0.5° (FWHM). Therefore, ≤ 2° (FWHM) can be considered as (highly) collimated source light. Optical devices can be used to provide (high) collimation (see also above).

[0037] The term "solid-state material laser" and similar terms may refer to solid-state lasers, such as solid-state lasers based on crystals or glasses doped with ions (e.g., transition metal ions and / or lanthanide ions), fiber lasers, photonic crystal lasers, semiconductor lasers such as, for example, vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), and the like.

[0038] The term "solid-state light source" and similar terms may particularly refer to semiconductor light sources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes, or superluminescent diodes.

[0039] 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 refer to one or more of a light emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, and a superluminescent diode, for example.

[0040] Thus, the light generating device may include one or more of a light emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, and a superluminescent diode.

[0041] Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are semiconductor light sources that emit light when an electric current flows through them. Electrons in the semiconductor can recombine with electron holes, releasing energy in the form of photons. The color of the light (corresponding to the energy of the photons) is determined by the energy required for the electrons to cross the semiconductor's band gap.

[0042] A laser diode (or diode laser) may be a semiconductor device substantially similar to a light emitting diode, wherein directly pumping the diode with an electric current can produce a lasing condition at the diode's junction, as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0043] Superluminescent diodes (SLDs) are known in the art and can be denoted as semiconductor devices that emit a broad spectrum of low-coherence light like an LED, while having a brightness comparable to that of a laser diode.

[0044] For example, US2020192017 states that "with current technology, a single SLED can emit over a bandwidth of, for example, up to 50-70 nm in the 800-900 nm wavelength range, with sufficient spectral flatness and sufficient output power. In the visible range for display applications, i.e., in the 450-650 nm wavelength range, with current technology, a single SLED can emit over a bandwidth of at most 10-30 nm. 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." In addition, in "Edge Emitting Laser Diodes and Superluminescent Diodes", Szymon Stanczyk, Anna Kafar, Dario Schiavon, Stephen Najda, Thomas Slight, Piotr Perlin, Book Editors: Fabrizio Roccaforte, Mike Leszczynski First Publication Date: August 3, 2020 h ttps: / / doi.org / 10.1002 / 9783527825264.ch9inchapter9.3Superluminescent diodes are described in [1]. This book, in particular Chapter 9.3, is incorporated herein by reference. Therein, it is stated that superluminescent diodes (SLDs) are emitters that combine features of laser diodes and light-emitting diodes. 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. Moreover, the presence of the waveguide ensures the emission of a high-quality beam with high spatial coherence of the light, but the light is characterized by 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, where in all cases the front end of the waveguide meets the device facet in an inclined manner, as shown in Figure 9.10. The tilted waveguide suppresses reflections of light from the facets into the waveguide by directing it out of the lossy, unpumped region of the device chip." Therefore, an SLD can be, in particular, a semiconductor light source in which spontaneously emitted light is amplified by stimulated emission in the active region of the device. This emission is called "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 light source has the advantage that speckle is significantly reduced or invisible, and the spectral distribution of the emission is much wider than that of laser diodes, which can be better suited for lighting applications. In particular, the spectral power distribution of a superluminescent diode can be varied as the current varies. In this way, the spectral power distribution can be controlled, see also, for example, Abdullah A. Alatawi et al., Opticsexpress vol. 26, Issue 20, pp. 26355-26364, https: / / doi.org / 10.1364 / OE.26.026355 . Therefore, a superluminescent diode can be represented as a semiconductor device that can emit a wide spectrum of low-coherence light like an LED, while having a brightness on the order of a laser diode. A superluminescent diode can combine the high power and brightness of a laser diode with the low coherence of a conventional light-emitting diode. The low (temporal) coherence of the light source has the advantage of significantly reduced or invisible speckle, and the spectral distribution of the emission is much wider than that of a laser diode, which can be better suited for lighting applications. Therefore, in an embodiment, the solid-state light source may include a superluminescent diode. For example, in another specific embodiment, the solid-state light source may include a GaN-based superluminescent diode, or an InGaN-based superluminescent diode, or an AlGaN-based superluminescent diode.

[0045] Thus, in particular, the light generating device may be configured to generate device light. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the light generating device comprises a solid-state light source. In particular, in an embodiment, the solid-state light source may comprise one or more of a laser light source and a superluminescent diode. In particular, the light generating device may comprise a diode laser. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the device light may comprise (in particular) a laser. In other specific embodiments, the device light may comprise (in particular) light from a superluminescent diode. In an embodiment, the device light is blue light. The terms "blue light" or "blue emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 440-490 nm (including some violet and cyan hues). In a specific embodiment, the blue light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 440-490 nm. Thus, in an embodiment, the device light may be a blue laser.

[0046] Furthermore, the light generating system includes a light conversion system. The light conversion system includes, in particular, a luminescent material (see also below) that is capable of converting at least a portion of the device light into luminescent material light. To manage thermal loads, the light generating device (such as a laser) and the luminescent material can be configured in the system such that, during system operation, the light generating device illuminates different portions of the luminescent material over time. To this end, a structure can be selected in which the luminescent material moves, for example, a rotating element comprising or provided with the luminescent material.

[0047] Here, the rotating element may in particular not be a plate or a disk, but a light-transmitting body. In an embodiment, the light-transmitting body may allow one or more of the following: (i) device light that is not absorbed by the luminescent material may propagate through the light-transmitting body to another part of the same luminescent material, or to another luminescent material, and (ii) device light that enters a hollow part of the light-transmitting body may be redirected to the luminescent material by means of an optical device. In both cases, part of the device light may propagate from within the light-transmitting body in the direction of the outside of the light-transmitting body and thus illuminate the luminescent material from the inside. Thus, regardless of whether the light-transmitting body is illuminated from the outside by device light or not, at least a part of the device light may illuminate at least a part of the luminescent material from the inside. Thus, the rotating element may be light-transmitting. In particular, the rotating element may be light-transmitting for the device light, see also below. Thus, in an embodiment, the light conversion system may comprise a light-transmitting body and a luminescent material.

[0048] In an embodiment, the light-transmitting body can be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation (A). In particular, the system can include an actuator configured to rotate the light-transmitting body about the axis of rotation (A). The rotation frequency can be selected, for example, from a range of 40-300 Hz, such as at least about 50 Hz, although other rotation frequencies are also possible. Thus, typically, the duration of illumination of the luminescent material is significantly shorter (≥10x, more typically ≥50x) than the duration of non-illumination of the luminescent material.

[0049] In embodiments, the light-transmitting body can be cylindrical, i.e., hollow, or have a rod-like shape, i.e., blocky. However, other shapes are not excluded. For example, while a cylinder can be hollow throughout its entire height, a rod-like shape with a cavity can also be an embodiment (which can be considered a hybrid embodiment of a cylindrical and rod-like shape). In the two embodiments shown, the light-transmitting body includes (i) an outer surface arranged at a distance (r1). In particular, this distance can be constant over the height of the light-transmitting body (defined parallel to the axis of rotation). In particular, the distance (r1) is defined perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Therefore, in particular, the outer surface can have a single curvature substantially defined by the distance (r1) (although other embodiments are not excluded). Luminescent material can be disposed on (a portion of) the outer surface. Alternatively or additionally, the outer surface can include a recess, such as a recessed ring, in which the luminescent material can be disposed. The outer surface can define an inner portion. Therefore, in embodiments, the inner portion can in particular include a cylinder (i.e., hollow) or have a rod (i.e., blocky). In both cases, the inner part may comprise a light-transmitting material (see also below), such as, for example, a cylinder of light-transmitting material in one embodiment, or, for example, a light-transmitting rod in another embodiment. Thus, in an embodiment, the light-transmitting body may comprise (i) an outer face arranged at a distance (r1) from the axis of rotation (A), and (ii) an inner part surrounded by the outer face, wherein at least a portion of the inner part may be light-transmitting for the device light.

[0050] A hollow body can be lighter and can allow optics to be arranged within the cavity. A block-shaped body can be easier to handle and can facilitate better thermal management. However, the hollow body can also be cooled by a cooling fluid within the hollow portion. For example, a (cooling) gas (or cooling liquid) can be guided through the hollow cylinder for cooling, in particular, the cylinder walls and thereby the luminescent material. However, in an embodiment, spokes can be provided in the hollow body to further facilitate heat transfer. The spokes can be provided such that they stimulate a cooling air flow, like fan blades pushing air through a tube. Of course, they should not block the light path.

[0051] In this document, the term "hollow light-transmitting body" refers in particular to a light-transmitting body comprising a hollow portion (eg, a cavity). In an embodiment, the hollow light-transmitting body may in particular be a light-transmitting cylinder.

[0052] The entire light-transmitting body need not be composed of a light-transmitting material, although one or more portions that may include a light-transmitting material may particularly facilitate that at least a portion of the device light may illuminate at least a portion of the luminescent material from the interior. However, in certain embodiments, the entire light-transmitting body is composed of a light-transmitting material; this may (in particular) facilitate that at least a portion of the device light may illuminate at least a portion of the luminescent material from the interior. Thus, in embodiments, the light-generating system is configured such that, during operation of the light-generating system, at least a portion of the device light partially illuminates at least a portion of the luminescent material from the interior for at least a portion of the time.

[0053] Furthermore, as described above, in particular, the luminescent material can be configured to convert at least a portion of the device light received by the luminescent material into luminescent material light. However, as described above, the luminescent material is configured at a portion of the exterior surface. The phrase "configured at a portion of the exterior surface" can indicate, in one embodiment, the exterior surface, and in (other) embodiments, can indicate a recessed portion of the exterior surface.

[0054] In particular, the luminescent material can form at least a portion of a ring around the axis of rotation (at (a portion of) the outer face). Typically, the height of the ring (defined parallel to the axis of rotation) can be substantially constant over the entire circumference. The entire ring can comprise the luminescent material, or one or more portions of the ring can comprise the luminescent material. Thus, in embodiments, the luminescent material can be configured as a semi-annular or annular shape. However, in particular, the entire ring can comprise the luminescent material (in particular having a substantially constant height) (and in particular having a substantially constant thickness). This can allow for relatively easy handling. Thus, in embodiments, the light conversion system can have a circular cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the axis of rotation (A)), and the luminescent material can in particular be configured in at least a portion of the annular arrangement at the outer face.

[0055] Hereinafter, some embodiments related to the luminescent material will be described first.

[0056] The term "luminescent material" refers, in particular, to a material that can convert a first radiation, in particular 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, as is the case with so-called down-conversion. However, in certain embodiments, the second radiation has a spectral power distribution with an intensity at a smaller wavelength than the first radiation, as is the case with so-called up-conversion.

[0057] In an embodiment, a "luminescent material" may particularly refer to a material that can convert radiation into, for example, visible light and / or infrared light. For example, in an embodiment, the luminescent material is capable of converting one or more of UV radiation and blue radiation into visible light. In a particular embodiment, the luminescent material may also convert radiation into infrared radiation (IR). Thus, upon excitation 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 of a larger wavelength (λ). ex <λ em ), although in certain embodiments the luminescent material may comprise an upconverter luminescent material, ie radiation of a larger wavelength is converted to radiation of a smaller wavelength (λ ex >λ em ).

[0058] 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.

[0059] The term "luminescent material" can also refer to a variety of different luminescent materials. Examples of possible luminescent materials are listed below. Therefore, the term "luminescent material" can also refer to a luminescent material composition in specific embodiments. The term "phosphor" can also be used instead of the term "luminescent material." These terms are known to those skilled in the art.

[0060] In an embodiment, the luminescent material is selected from garnets and nitrides, 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 may be selected from silicates, in particular silicates doped with divalent europium.

[0061] In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material comprises A3B5O 12 : Ce type luminescent material, wherein A 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 comprises one or more of Al, Ga, In and Sc in an embodiment. In particular, A may comprise one or more of Y, Gd and Lu, for example in particular one or more of Y and Lu. In particular, B may comprise one or more of Al and Ga, more particularly at least Al, for example substantially completely Al. Therefore, a particularly suitable luminescent material is a garnet material containing cerium. An embodiment of garnet in particular comprises A3B5O 12Garnet, 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 consist essentially of more than 90 mol % Al and less than 10 mol % of one or more of Ga, Sc, and In); B may particularly 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 may particularly only be present in an amount of up to about 20% of A. In a specific embodiment, the garnet luminescent material includes (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" means 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 no more than 10% of A; usually, the Ce concentration is 0.1%-4%, especially 0.1%-2% (relative to A). Assuming 1% Ce and 10% Y, the correct molecular formula can be (Y 0.1 Lu 0.89 Ce 0.01 )3Al5O 12 The Ce in garnet is essentially or exclusively in the trivalent state, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0062] In an embodiment, the luminescent material (therefore) comprises A3B5O 12 , wherein in a specific embodiment, up to 10% of BO can be replaced by Si—N.

[0063] In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material includes (Y x1 A' x2 Ce x3 )3(Al y1 B' y2 )5O 12, where x1 + x2 + x3 = 1, where x3 > 0, where 0 < x2 + x3 ≤ 0.2, where y1 + y2 = 1, where in particular 0 ≤ y2 ≤ 0.2, where A' includes one or more elements selected from the group consisting of lanthanide elements, and where B' includes one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Ga, In, and Sc. In an embodiment, x3 is selected from the range of 0.001 - 0.1. In the present invention, in particular, x1 > 0, for example > 0.2, such as at least 0.8. The garnet with Y can provide a suitable spectral power distribution.

[0064] In a specific embodiment, up to 10% of B - O can be replaced by Si - N. Here, B in B - O refers to one or more of Al, Ga, In, and Sc (and O refers to oxygen); in a specific embodiment, B - O can refer to A1 - O. As described above, in a specific embodiment, x3 can be selected from the range of 0.001 - 0.04. In particular, such a luminescent material can have a suitable spectral distribution (however, see below), have a relatively high efficiency, have a relatively high thermal stability, and allow a high CRI (optionally in combination with the light of other light sources as described herein). Thus, in a specific embodiment, A can be selected from the group consisting of Lu and Gd. Alternatively or additionally, B can include Ga. Thus, in an embodiment, the luminescent material includes (Y x1 (Lu, Gd) x2 Ce x3 )3(Al y1 Ga y2 )5O 12 , where Lu and / or Gd is available. Even more particularly, x3 is selected from the range of 0.001 - 0.1, where 0 < x2 + x3 ≤ 0.1, and where 0 ≤ y2 ≤ 0.1. Additionally, in a specific embodiment, up to 1% of B - O can be replaced by Si - N. Here, the percentage refers to the number of moles (as known in the art); also see, for example, EP3149108. In yet another specific embodiment, the luminescent material includes (Y x1 Ce x3 )3Al5O 12 , where x1 + x3 = 1, and where 0 < x3 ≤ 0.2, such as 0.001 - 0.1.

[0065] In a specific embodiment, the light generating device may only include a luminescent material selected from garnet - type luminescent materials containing cerium. In yet another specific embodiment, the light generating device includes a single type of luminescent material, for example (Y x1 A’ x2 Ce x3 )3(Al y1 B’ y2 )5O 12. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the light generating device includes a luminescent material, wherein at least 85 weight (wt.) %, even more particularly at least about 90 wt. %, and for example even more particularly at least about 95 weight % of the luminescent material comprises (Y x1 A' x2 Ce x3 )3(Al y1 B' y2 )5O 12 . Here, A' includes one or more elements selected from the group consisting of lanthanide elements, and wherein B' includes 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 - 0.1. Note that in the embodiment, x2 = 0. Alternatively or additionally, in the embodiment, y2 = 0.

[0066] In a specific embodiment, A can particularly at least include Y, and B can particularly at least include Al.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, the luminescent material can include a luminescent material of the type A3Si6N 11 :Ce 3+ , where A includes one or more of Y, La, Gd, Tb, and Lu, such as one or more of La and Y in the embodiment.

[0068] In the embodiment, the luminescent material can alternatively or additionally include MS:Eu 2+ and / or M2Si5N8:Eu 2+ and / or MAlSiN3:Eu 2+ and / or Ca2AlSi3O2N5:Eu 2+ etc. one or more of them, where M includes one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca, especially at least including Sr in the embodiment. Thus, in the embodiment, the luminescent material can 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 of the designated divalent cations. Generally, Eu will not be present in an amount greater than 10% of the cations; with respect to the (multiple) cations it replaces, its presence will especially be in the range of about 0.5% to 10%, more especially in the range of about 0.5% to 5%. The term ":Eu" means that some of the metal ions are replaced by Eu (by Eu in these embodiments 2+For example, assuming 2% of CaAlSiN3:Eu, the correct molecular formula would be (Ca 0.98 Eu 0.02 )AlSiN3. Divalent europium generally replaces divalent cations, such as the above-mentioned divalent alkaline earth metal cations, in particular Ca, Sr or Ba. The material (Ba, Sr, Ca)S:Eu can also be expressed as MS: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 calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more in particular calcium in the compound. Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least part of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca). In addition, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca)2Si5N8:Eu can also be expressed as M2Si5N8: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 another specific embodiment, M consists of Sr and / or Ba (excluding the presence of Eu), especially 50%-100%, more especially 50%-90% Ba and 50%-0%, especially 50%-10% Sr, such as Ba 1.5 Sr 0.5 Si5N8:Eu (i.e., 75% Ba; 25% Sr). Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least part of M, i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca. Similarly, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca)AlSiN3:Eu can also be expressed 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 part of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca). As known to those skilled in the art, Eu in the above-mentioned luminescent materials is substantially or only in a divalent state.

[0069] 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 solely divalent and replaces one or more specified divalent cations. Typically, Eu will not be present in an amount greater than 10% of the cations; its presence will be particularly in the range of about 0.5% to 10%, more particularly in the range of about 0.5% to 5%, relative to the (multiple) cations it replaces. The term ": Eu" indicates that part of the metal ion is replaced by Eu (in these embodiments by Eu). 2+ For example, assuming that there is 2% Eu in CaAlSiN3:Eu, the correct molecular formula would be (Ca0.98 Eu 0.02 )AlSiN 3. Divalent europium usually replaces divalent cations, such as the above-mentioned divalent alkaline earth metal cations, in particular Ca, Sr or Ba.

[0070] The material (Ba, Sr, Ca)S:Eu can also be expressed 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 part of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0071] In addition, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca) 2 Si 5 N 8 : Eu can also be expressed 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 another specific embodiment, M consists of Sr and / or Ba (excluding the presence of Eu), in particular 50%-100%, more particularly 50%-90% Ba and 50-0%, in particular 50-10% Sr, such as Ba 1.5 Sr 0.5 Si5N8:Eu (ie, 75% Ba; 25% Sr). Here, Eu is introduced and replaces at least part of M, ie, one or more of Ba, Sr and Ca.

[0072] Similarly, the material (Ba, Sr, Ca)AlSiN3:Eu can also be expressed 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 part of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0073] As known to those skilled in the art, Eu in the above-mentioned luminescent materials is substantially or only in a divalent state.

[0074] Blue luminescent materials may include YSO(Y2SiO5):Ce 3+ ), or similar compounds, or BAM (BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu 2 + ), or similar compounds.

[0075] The term "luminescent material" in this context relates in particular to inorganic phosphors.

[0076] Alternatively or additionally, other luminescent materials may also be applied. For example, quantum dots and / or organic dyes may be applied and optionally embedded in a transmissive matrix, for example a polymer such as PMMA or polysiloxane.

[0077] 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 adjusting the size of the dots. Most known quantum dots with emission in the visible light range are based on cadmium selenide (CdSe) with shells such as cadmium sulfide (CdS) and zinc sulfide (ZnS). Cadmium-free quantum dots, such as indium phosphide (InP) and copper indium sulfide (CuInS2) and / or silver indium sulfide (AgInS2), can also be used. Quantum dots show very narrow emission bands, so they show saturated colors. In addition, the emission color can be easily adjusted by adjusting the size of the quantum dots. Any type of quantum dots known in the art can be used in the present invention. However, for environmental safety and concerns, it is preferred to use cadmium-free quantum dots or at least quantum dots with very low cadmium content.

[0078] Instead of or in addition to quantum dots, other quantum confinement structures can also be used. In the context of this application, the term "quantum confinement structure" is to be understood as meaning, for example, quantum wells, quantum dots, quantum rods, tripods, tetrapods or nanowires.

[0079] 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.

[0080] Different luminescent materials may have different spectral power distributions of the corresponding luminescent material light. Alternatively or additionally, such different luminescent materials may in particular have different color points (or dominant wavelengths).

[0081] As mentioned above, other luminescent materials are also possible. Thus, in a specific embodiment, the luminescent material is selected from 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, include quantum dots or quantum rods (or other quantum type particles) (see above). The quantum structure may also include quantum wells. The quantum structure may also include a photonic crystal.

[0082] As can be seen above, the term "different luminescent materials" can refer to different luminescent materials, or to two compositions, each of which includes at least one common luminescent material, but in different compositions. For example, a first luminescent material includes luminescent materials A and B, and a second luminescent material includes only A, only B, or both A and B, but in different weight ratios. Such first and second luminescent materials can have different spectral power distributions of their respective luminescent light. Different luminescent materials can have luminescent light with different spectral power distributions. In particular, they can also differ in color point.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the colors or color points of the first and second types of light may differ when their respective color points differ by at least 0.01 for u' and / or by at least 0.01 for v', and even more particularly, differ by at least 0.02 for u' and / or by at least 0.02 for v'. In more specific embodiments, the respective color points of the first and second types of light may differ by at least 0.03 for u' and / or by at least 0.03 for v'. Here, u' and v' are the color coordinates of the light in the CIE 1976 UCS (Uniform Chromaticity) diagram.

[0084] Spectral power distributions of different light sources having centroid wavelengths that differ by at least 10 nm, such as at least 20 nm, or even at least 30 nm, can be considered to be different spectral power distributions, e.g., different colors. Typically, the difference in centroid wavelength will be no greater than about 400 nm, such as no greater than 350 nm.

[0085] Thus, when two or more mutually different luminescent materials are present, the spectral power distributions of the (respective) luminescent material light may in particular be different.

[0086] In other specific embodiments, two or more annular arrangements may include substantially the same luminescent material, however, at least two of the two or more annular arrangements may include luminescent material having different thicknesses. This means that illuminating an annular arrangement including a thicker luminescent material layer will result in relatively more conversion, and therefore more luminescent material light, and less residual device light, while illuminating an annular arrangement including a thinner luminescent material layer will result in relatively less conversion, and therefore relatively less luminescent material light, and relatively more residual device light. In this way, the spectral power distribution of the system light can also be controlled. The thickness of the luminescent material is particularly defined in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0087] In other specific embodiments, of the two or more annular arrangements, one may include a luminescent material and the other may include a reflective material (reflecting the device light). This means that irradiating an annular arrangement including a layer of luminescent material may result in conversion to luminescent material light, whereas irradiating an annular arrangement including a reflective material may result in no conversion and therefore essentially only (reflected) device light. In this way, the spectral power distribution of the system light may also be controlled. In embodiments, the reflective material may be specularly reflective. In other embodiments, it may be diffusely reflective.

[0088] In an embodiment, the device light can illuminate at least a portion of the luminescent material at the external face (at a first position). A portion of the device light that illuminates the luminescent material can be absorbed by the luminescent material (and at least partially converted into luminescent material light), another portion can be transmitted by the luminescent material, can propagate through the light-transmitting body, and reach a second position at the luminescent material on the external face. Here, the device light at this second position of the external face can be at least partially absorbed by the luminescent material (and at least partially converted into luminescent material light), and optionally, a portion of the device light can also be transmitted. The luminescent material at the second portion of the external face can therefore be illuminated from the inside of the light-transmitting body. Therefore, in embodiments in which the luminescent material is illuminated from the outside, the luminescent material can also be transmissive for the device light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the luminescent material and its thickness can be selected so that a portion of the device light received by the luminescent material is transmitted (and therefore this portion is not converted). For example, in an embodiment, the luminescent material and its thickness can be selected so that a range of 20-80% (of the spectral power) of the device light received by the luminescent material is transmitted and 80-20% (of the spectral power) of the device light received by the luminescent material is absorbed, where the percentages can total up to 100% (not taking into account reflections at the luminescent material).

[0089] Thus, in an embodiment, the luminescent material disposed in at least a portion of the annular arrangement at the exterior face is configured to absorb a portion of the device light received by the luminescent material; wherein the light generating system is configured such that device light irradiating the luminescent material from outside the light conversion system in at least a portion of the annular arrangement is at least partially transmitted by the luminescent material and the interior portion, and during operation of the light generating system, during at least a portion of the time, irradiates another portion of the light conversion system (and also at least a portion of the luminescent material (from the interior portion)). Here, the phrase "during at least a portion of the time" is included to also encompass embodiments in which the luminescent material is unavailable throughout the entire annular arrangement. If the luminescent material is available throughout the entire annular arrangement, then "during at least a portion of the time" can effectively be the same as the time during which the luminescent material is irradiated from outside the light conversion system. Furthermore, during operation in an embodiment, device light can be directed to the first annular arrangement during a first time period and to the second annular arrangement during a second time period. In an embodiment, this can alternate. This can also mean that there are time periods in which the luminescent material in the first annular arrangement is not irradiated (during the second time period), and time periods in which the luminescent material in the second annular arrangement is not irradiated (during the first time period). The phrase "at least part of the time" may especially relate to the operating time of the system.

[0090] Thus, in operating mode, different annular arrangements can be alternately illuminated with the device light.

[0091] Note that the above embodiments may also (therefore) include two or more annular arrangements with the same luminescent material, two or more annular arrangements with the same luminescent material, wherein two of the two or more annular arrangements have at least two different luminescent materials, and a single annular arrangement with a single type of luminescent material, or a single annular arrangement with two or more different types of luminescent materials, which are spatially differently positioned (see also below).

[0092] From the above, it can be concluded that when the device light illuminates another part of the external surface from the inside of the light-transmitting body, since the device light is partially transmitted by the luminescent material illuminated by the device light from the outside, (a) the luminescent material at the other part of the external surface can be the same annular arrangement or another annular arrangement, and (b) it can be the same luminescent material or a different luminescent material.

[0093] Thus, in some embodiments, the term "annular arrangement" may refer to a single annular arrangement, while in other embodiments, the term "annular arrangement" may refer to at least two annular arrangements. In particular, the annular arrangements may be configured parallel to each other. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the term "luminescent material" may refer to a single type of luminescent material, while in other embodiments, the term "luminescent material" may refer to two or more different types of luminescent materials.

[0094] In certain embodiments, there may be at least two annular arrangements and at least two different luminescent materials (comprising the respective at least two annular arrangements). In particular, in embodiments, the luminescent materials may include a first luminescent material and a second luminescent material different from the first luminescent material, wherein the first luminescent material may be arranged in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement at the outer face, and wherein the second luminescent material may be arranged in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement at the outer face. Thus, when the different luminescent materials in the different annular arrangements are illuminated, light having different spectral power distributions is obtained.

[0095] As described above, device light transmitted through one of the luminescent materials at a first location on the outer face can illuminate another luminescent material at a second location on the outer face; the device light can be at least partially absorbed by the luminescent material at the second location (and at least partially converted into luminescent material light), and optionally, a portion of the device light can also be transmitted. The luminescent material at the second portion of the outer face can thus be illuminated from the interior of the light-transmitting body. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first luminescent material configured in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement at the outer face can be configured to absorb a portion of the device light received by the first luminescent material. Furthermore, the light generating system can be configured such that the device light that illuminates the first luminescent material in at least a portion of the annular arrangement from the outside of the light conversion system can (also) be at least partially transmitted by the first luminescent material and the inner portion, and can (also) illuminate (from the inner portion) at least a portion of the second luminescent material in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement at the outer face for at least a portion of the time during operation of the light generating system.

[0096] If two (or more) annular arrangements are applied in an embodiment, which are configured in parallel and at different heights, the device light can propagate from one of the annular arrangements to the other when one or more of the following are applied: (i) the device light is provided with an optical axis that penetrates both annular arrangements, for example, the optical axis is not configured perpendicular to the external surface, and (ii) the optical device can be applied to be configured in a hollow light-transmitting body.

[0097] Thus, in a specific embodiment, the light generating system can be configured such that the optical axis (O) of the device light illuminating the first luminescent material in at least a portion of the annular arrangement from outside the light conversion system can have an angle (α) that is not equal to zero with a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (A). For example, the angle can be selected from the range of 2-85°, more particularly from the range of 2-70°, such as from the range of 2-45°, more particularly from 2-15°, for example in a specific embodiment from the range of 5-10°.

[0098] In a further specific embodiment, a conical reflector can be configured within the inner body. With the conical reflector, the transmitted device light can be redirected (reflected) to the second annular arrangement. Such a conical reflector can be embedded in the solid inner body of the rod, or can be applied to the inner surface of a cylinder (with relatively thick walls). Alternatively, a conical refractive inner surface, for example, formed in the inner surface of a (thick-walled) cylinder, or as an additional refractive optical element with at least one refractive surface, which is mounted within the hollow light-transmitting body, can be used for redirection. Note that both options can result in opposite sides of the cylindrical outer wall, where the redirected light beam ends.

[0099] In certain embodiments, the actuator may be located inside the cylinder. In certain embodiments, the tiltable reflector may be configured inside the cylinder. Thus, in embodiments, a controllable redirector of light, such as a tiltable reflector, may be configured inside the cylinder.

[0100] As mentioned above, the light-transmitting body can in particular transmit device light. Therefore, the light-transmitting body can comprise a light-transmitting material, in particular a light-transmitting material.

[0101] The light-transmitting material may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of light-transmitting organic materials, such as a group consisting of: PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PC (polycarbonate), polyurethane (PU), polymethacrylate (PMA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) (acrylic glass or organic glass), polymethacrylimide (PMI), polymethacrylimide (PMMI), styrene acrylonitrile resin (SAN), acetate butyrate (CAB), silicone resin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and in one embodiment includes PETG (ethylene glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate), PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) and COC (cyclic olefin copolymer). In particular, the light-transmitting material may include aromatic polyesters or copolymers thereof, such as one or more of the following: polycarbonate (PC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (P(M)MA), polyglycolide or polyglycolic acid (PGA), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyethylene adipate (PEA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN). In particular, the light-transmitting material may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Therefore, the light-transmitting material is especially a polymer light-transmitting material.

[0102] However, in another embodiment, the light-transmitting material may comprise an inorganic material. In particular, the inorganic light-transmitting material may be selected from the group consisting of glass, (fused) quartz, light-transmitting ceramic material and silicone. Mixed materials comprising inorganic and organic parts may also be applied. In particular, the light-transmitting material comprises one or more of PMMA, transparent PC or glass. For example, the light-transmitting material may comprise a ceramic body, such as a garnet-type material. In an alternative embodiment, the light-transmitting material may comprise an aluminum oxide material, such as an Al2O3-based material. In an embodiment, the light-transmitting material may comprise, for example, sapphire. Other materials are also possible, such as one or more of the following: CaF2, MgO, BaF2, A3B5O 12 Garnet, ALON (aluminum oxynitride), MgAl2O4 and MgF2.

[0103] In particular, the material has a light transmittance in the range of 50-100%, in particular in the range of 70-100%, for light having a wavelength selected from the visible wavelength range.Herein, the term "visible light" especially relates to light having a wavelength selected from the range of 380-780 nm.

[0104] The transmittance (or light transmittance) can be determined by providing light of a specific wavelength having a first intensity to a light-transmitting material under normal irradiation, and correlating the intensity of the light of that wavelength measured after transmission through the material with the first intensity of the light of the specific wavelength provided to the material (see also E-208 and E-406 of the CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 69th edition, 1088-1989).

[0105] In particular embodiments, a material may be considered transmissive when the transmittance of the radiation generated by the radiation source described herein at a wavelength or wavelength range, in particular radiation at a wavelength or wavelength range, under perpendicular illumination of said radiation, through a 1 mm thick layer of material, in particular even through a 5 mm thick layer of material, is at least about 20%, such as at least 40%, such as at least 60%, such as in particular at least 80%, such as at least about 85%, such as even at least about 90%. The light-transmitting material may have light-guiding or wave-guiding properties. Therefore, the light-transmitting material is also referred to herein as a light-guiding material or a wave-guiding material. The light-transmitting material will typically have (some) transmission of one or more of (N)UV, visible light and (N)IR radiation (such as in embodiments at least visible light) in a direction perpendicular to the length of the light-transmitting material. The transmittance of the light-transmitting material (as such) for one or more luminous wavelengths may be at least 80% / cm, for example at least 90% / cm, even more in particular at least 95% / cm, for example at least 98% / cm, for example at least 99% / cm. This means that for example 1 cm 3 The cube-shaped sheet of light-transmitting material will have a transmission of at least 95% under normal illumination of radiation having a selected luminescence wavelength, such as a wavelength corresponding to an emission maximum of the luminescence of the light-transmitting material.

[0106] In this document, transmittance values ​​refer in particular to transmittance without taking into account Fresnel losses at interfaces (e.g., air). Therefore, the term "transmittance" particularly refers to internal transmittance. Internal transmittance can be determined, for example, by measuring the transmittance of two or more objects with different widths, over which the transmittance is measured. Based on such measurements, the contribution of Fresnel reflection losses and (therefore) internal transmittance can then be determined. Therefore, in particular, the transmittance values ​​specified here neglect Fresnel losses.

[0107] In addition to the high transmittance for the wavelength(s) of interest, the scattering may also be particularly low. Thus, the mean free path for the wavelength(s) of interest taking only scattering effects into account (and therefore not taking into account possible absorption (which should be low anyway given the high transmittance)) may be at least 0.5 times the thickness of the object (or the thickness of the walls of the object when the object is hollow), such as at least the thickness of the object (or the thickness of the walls of the object when the object is hollow), for example at least twice the thickness of the object (or the thickness of the walls of the object when the object is hollow). For example, in an embodiment, the mean free path taking only scattering effects into account may be at least 5 mm, such as at least 10 mm. The wavelength of interest may in particular be the maximum emission wavelength of the device light. The term "mean free path" is in particular the average distance a ray will travel before undergoing a scattering event that will change its propagation direction.

[0108] In an embodiment, the element comprising a light transmissive material may consist essentially of the light transmissive material. In a specific embodiment, the element comprising a light transmissive material may be a light transmissive element.

[0109] In particular, a light-transmitting element, such as a light-transparent element, may, in embodiments, have an absorption length and / or a scattering length that is at least the thickness of the light-transmitting element (or the thickness of the wall of the object if the object is hollow), for example, at least twice the thickness (or the thickness of the wall of the object if the object is hollow). The absorption length may be defined as the length along the propagation direction over which the intensity of light decreases by a factor of 1 / e due to absorption. Similarly, the scattering length may be defined as the length along the propagation direction over which light is lost due to scattering and thus decreases by a factor of 1 / e. Here, the length may particularly refer to the distance between a primary face and a secondary face of the light-transmitting element, wherein the light-transmitting material is disposed between the primary face and the secondary face. In certain embodiments, the light-transmitting body may comprise a light-transmitting solid rod, wherein the rod comprises one or more of a polymeric material, a ceramic material, and a single crystal. Thus, the wall or block may be light-transmitting to the device light.

[0110] As described above, in embodiments, the light-transmitting body may be cylindrical and may optionally house an optical device. Thus, in embodiments, the light-transmitting body may comprise a hollow cylinder, wherein the hollow cylinder may comprise a cylinder wall, wherein the cylinder wall comprises an outer face, and wherein the inner portion comprises a cavity. Furthermore, in particular, the light-generating system may further comprise a first redirection optic. In a particular embodiment, the first redirection optic may be configured within the cavity and may be configured to redirect at least a portion of the device light transmitted by the first luminescent material to a second luminescent material. In a particular embodiment, the first redirection optic comprises an ellipsoidal reflector. In this way, relatively efficiently transmitted device light may be redirected to another portion of the luminescent material, such as luminescent material comprised by another annular arrangement (or optionally to luminescent material comprised by the same annular arrangement).

[0111] As described above, the system may include an actuator. The term "actuator" may also refer to a plurality of actuators. The actuator may be configured to rotate the light-transmitting body. Furthermore, the actuator may be configured to move the light-transmitting body in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation. Furthermore, the actuator may be used to move the light-generating device and / or the optical device so that the position of the light beam irradiating the luminescent material (at a first position) from the outside of the light-transmitting body can be controlled. In certain embodiments, the latter actuator may also be effectively used to control the position of the light beam irradiating the luminescent material (at a second position) from the inside (after transmitting through the luminescent material at the first position (and after transmitting through at least part of the light-transmitting body, such as a light-transmitting wall)). Note that the actuator may also be applied to control optical devices configured in the cavity of a hollow light-transmitting body. The actuator may have a single (control) function in embodiments and may have more than one (control) function in other embodiments. As described above, more than one actuator may be applied in embodiments. In order to control the (multiple) actuators, a control system may be applied (see also below). Therefore, in an embodiment, the system may further include a control system and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to controllably manipulate the beam of the device light and / or control the translational position of the light conversion system along the rotation axis (A). In particular, the control system may be configured to control the position at which the device light illuminates the luminescent material by controlling the actuator.

[0112] In some embodiments, a spectral filter can be placed inside the cylinder, at approximately the same height as the annular arrangement. Such a spectral filter can be configured to transmit a portion of the light and reflect another portion. For example, the spectral filter can be configured to transmit at least a portion of the device light and substantially reflect the luminescent light. This can increase the output of the system, as the luminescent material light may not be "lost." Note that such a filter can also be placed between the luminescent material and the light-transmitting body. This can be applied to rods as well as cylinders.

[0113] As mentioned above, there can be two or more annular arrangements. Here, an embodiment comprising two annular arrangements is described in more detail. However, similarly, this can be applied to embodiments having more than two annular arrangements.

[0114] Assuming two or more annular arrangements, in an embodiment, the beam of the device light and / or the light-transmitting body can be controlled so that in an operating mode, the device light only illuminates the luminescent material in one of the annular arrangements from the outside, and in another operating mode, the device light only illuminates the luminescent material in another of the annular arrangements from the outside. Of course, the device light can be transmitted and then illuminate the luminescent material either in the same annular arrangement and / or in another annular arrangement from the inside at a second position. Using optical devices, the angle of the beam of the device light can be controlled, allowing control of the position at which the device light illuminates the light conversion system from the outside. Using optical devices, it is also possible to change the position at which the device light illuminates the light conversion system from the outside instead of changing the angle. Thus, in embodiments, the control system can be configured to control the light generating system in a first operating mode or a second operating mode, wherein: (a) in the first operating mode, the first annular arrangement is configured to be in a light-receiving relationship with the light generating device, the light generating device being configured to illuminate a first luminescent material in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement from outside the light conversion system; and (b) in the second operating mode, the second annular arrangement is configured to be in a light-receiving relationship with the light generating device, the light generating device being configured to illuminate a second luminescent material in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement from outside the light conversion system. Of course, the first operating mode does not necessarily precede the second operating mode. These numbers are generally used only to distinguish the modes.

[0115] As described above, in embodiments, the light-transmitting body may comprise a hollow cylinder. This may allow, for example, the arrangement of optical devices within the hollow cylinder. Such optical devices may be fixed or controllable, for example to (further) control the beam direction and propagation. Note that in some embodiments described herein, the arrangement of optical devices is not necessary, but pertains to some other embodiments described herein, see also below. In particular, the hollow cylinder may comprise a cylinder wall, wherein the cylinder wall comprises an exterior face; wherein the interior portion comprises a cavity. In particular, the cavity may be over the entire height of the cylinder and may have a constant inner diameter over the height of the cylinder.

[0116] In certain embodiments, the light generating system may further comprise a second redirection optic, wherein the second redirection optic may in particular be arranged within the cavity. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the light generating device and the second redirection optic may be arranged such that the first luminescent material and / or the second luminescent material is illuminated from the interior of the light conversion system via the second redirection optic. In further specific embodiments, the light generating device and the second redirection optic may be arranged such that the first luminescent material and / or the second luminescent material is illuminated from the interior of the light conversion system via the second redirection optic without first being transmitted by the (first or second) luminescent material. For example, the latter embodiment may be provided when the device light enters the cavity not via a wall but through one of the cylindrical openings. Thus, in certain embodiments, the hollow cylinder may comprise a cylindrical opening, wherein one or more light generating devices are arranged outside the hollow cylinder, and wherein the light generating system may be arranged such that the second redirection optic receives at least a portion of the device light via the cylindrical opening. Note that even one or more light generating devices may be arranged within the cylinder.

[0117] Additional controllability can be achieved when using polarized device light with controllable polarization and optical devices that guide the device light according to the polarization, and / or when using device light with controllable spectral power distribution and (other) optical devices that guide the device light according to the spectral power distribution. The control system can control the polarization of the device light and / or the spectral power distribution of the device light.

[0118] By using controllable polarization optics and / or by using two or more light beams, optionally generated by two or more light generating devices, the device light can have a controllable polarization, wherein the polarization of the device light in at least two of the light beams is different. The latter may be due to different types of light sources and / or by using polarization optics.

[0119] The device light may have a controllable spectral power distribution, for example, while such a device has a controllable spectral power distribution. However, alternatively or additionally, the device light may have a controllable spectral power distribution by using two or more light generating devices, wherein at least two of the light generating devices generate device light with different spectral power distributions.

[0120] Thus, in an embodiment, one or more light generating devices configured to generate device light may have one or more of (i) a controllable spectral power distribution and (ii) a controllable polarization; wherein the second redirection optical device may include one or more of the following: (a) a dichroic mirror and (b) one or more polarization-dependent reflectors and / or polarization-dependent filters; wherein the light generating system may be configured such that, depending on one or more of the spectral power distribution and the polarization of the device light, the second redirection optical device may direct the device light to the first annular arrangement and / or the second annular arrangement; and wherein the light generating system may further include a control system (as aforementioned) configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution and the polarization of the device light.

[0121] As described above, there may be two or more annular arrangements, such as two, three, four, five, or six. In certain embodiments, the light generating system may include (a) a first luminescent material configured in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement at the exterior face, (b) a second luminescent material configured in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement at the exterior face, and (c) a third luminescent material configured in at least a portion of the third annular arrangement at the exterior face, wherein the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the third luminescent material are different from one another.

[0122] Thus, when two or more luminescent materials are present, they can be selected so that the luminescent material light generated by the respective luminescent materials is selected from a light generating device that emits warm white light, cool white light, (blue light), violet light, cyan light, green light, yellow light, amber light, orange light, and red light. Warm white light can be light with a CCT of at most 3500K, while cool white light can be white light with a CCT exceeding 3500K, although other distinctions are not excluded herein.

[0123] The phrase "in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement" and similar phrases (such as "in at least a portion of the third annular arrangement") may in certain embodiments refer to the entire first annular arrangement, etc. Thus, in embodiments, the luminescent material may be provided in an annular arrangement.

[0124] In an embodiment, the height of the annular arrangement can be selected from the range of 0.2-20 mm, for example from the range of 0.1-10 mm, for example from the range of about 1-10 mm. In addition, the thickness of the luminescent material (layer) can be selected from the range of 0.1-10 mm, such as from the range of 0.1-5 mm, for example from the range of about 0.1-0.5 mm. Therefore, the characteristic value of the height of the light-transmitting body can be selected from the range of 5-200 mm, for example 10-100 mm. The characteristic value of the height of the (multiple) annular arrangements can be selected from the range of 0.2-20 mm, for example 0.1-10 mm, more particularly about 1-10 mm. The luminescent material can have a layer thickness, for example, selected from the range of 0.1-0.5 mm. The radius r1 can, for example, be selected from the range of 10-100 mm.

[0125] The system is particularly configured to generate system light. The system light may particularly include luminescent material light. The system light may also include (unconverted) device light. In an embodiment, the spectral power distribution of the system light may be controllable. However, in an embodiment, the spectral power distribution of the system light may vary over time at a frequency of at least 50 Hz (e.g., a frequency of at least 100 Hz), for example as a result of switching illumination back and forth between different luminescent materials and / or different annular arrangements, while the spectral power distribution is substantially constant over an average time (at least over a period of time greater than 1 / 50 second). The system may include optical devices for collecting, mixing, and / or beam shaping the light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the light generating system is particularly configured to generate system light including one or more of device light and luminescent material light; wherein the light generating system may optionally further include system optics configured to (a) receive at least a portion of the device light and / or at least a portion of the luminescent material light, and (b) beam shape the system light. In an embodiment, the system optics comprises a light homogenizing device, wherein the light homogenizing device is selected from the group consisting of a diffuser, an integrating rod, an integrating fly's eye lens array, and a Koehler optic.

[0126] Diffusers can be subdivided into volume diffusers and / or surface diffusers. Of particular interest may be flat-top diffusers, which have a specific design (usually as a surface texture) to achieve this (as opposed to a Lambertian diffuser produced by a random pattern). Further homogenization can be achieved by microlens arrays. Integral fly's eye lens arrays can be used in pairs that are well aligned with respect to each other and are therefore a more specific application of lens arrays (usually with still relatively large lenses, although the lens diameter is typically about an order of magnitude smaller than the beam diameter).

[0127] Furthermore, the system may comprise a control infrastructure to check whether the system is operating as desired or as predefined. For example, in this way a feedback (or feedforward) system may be provided, which may increase reliability and safety.

[0128] In embodiments, the system may further include a light output sensor for determining a device output signal related to an output of device light emitted by the light generating device; a luminescent material light sensor for determining a luminescent material light signal related to an output of luminescent material light emitted by the luminescent material; and a control system adapted to receive the device output signal and the luminescent material light signal, for determining a safe operating parameter based on the device output signal and the luminescent material light signal, and for controlling operation of the light generating device based on a comparison between the safe operating parameter and at least one predefined threshold value. For example, in embodiments, the light output sensor may sense the radiant flux of the device light. In embodiments, the luminescent material light sensor may sense one or more of the radiant flux and the spectral power distribution (or at least a portion thereof) of the luminescent material light. However, in embodiments, the sensor may be configured to sense the device light and the luminescent material light (and, for example, determine or be used to determine a ratio of an intensity (such as radiant flux) of the luminescent material light to a total intensity (e.g., total radiant flux) of the system light.

[0129] Alternatively or additionally, the system may further comprise a sensor configured to sense one or more of: the rotation of the light-transmitting body, the position of the luminescent material and the luminescent material light, and to generate a related sensor signal; wherein the control system is configured to control controllable parameters of the light-generating system according to the sensor signal, wherein the controllable parameters are selected from the group consisting of: the propagation direction of the light beam of the device light, the translational position of the light conversion system along the rotation axis (A), the controllable arrangement of the position of the first redirecting optical device, the controllable arrangement of the position of the third redirecting optical device, the spectral power distribution of the first device light, the polarization of the first device light, the output of one or more light-generating devices.

[0130] The light generating system can be part of or can 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) can be part of or can be used in, for example, an optical communication system or a disinfection system.

[0131] In yet another aspect, the present invention further provides a lamp or lamp fixture comprising a light generating system as defined herein. The lamp fixture may further include a housing, optical elements, a light-transmitting grid, etc. The lamp or lamp fixture may further include a housing surrounding the light generating system. The lamp or lamp fixture may include a light window or housing opening in the housing through which system light can 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 a projection screen. The projection device may include one or more light generating systems as described herein. Thus, in one aspect, the present invention further provides a lighting device selected from the group consisting of a lamp, a lamp fixture, a projector device, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device, comprising a light generating system as defined herein. In other embodiments, the lighting device may include an automotive lighting device. Thus, in one aspect, the present invention further provides a lighting device selected from the group consisting of a lamp, a lamp fixture, a projector device, and an automotive headlamp, comprising a light generating system as defined herein. In certain embodiments, the light may be a spotlight (or other type of non-imaging (illumination) device). The lighting device may include a housing or carrier configured to house or support one or more elements of a light generating system. For example, in embodiments, the lighting device may include a housing or carrier configured to house or support one or more of a light generating device, a light conversion system, an actuator, a sensor, etc.

[0132] The term "white light" and similar terms herein are known to those skilled in the art. For general lighting, in particular, it may relate to light having a correlated color temperature (CCT) between approximately 1800K and 20,000K, for example between 2000K and 20,000K, in particular between 2700K and 20,000K, and for general lighting, in particular in the range of approximately 2000-7000K, for example between 2700K and 6500K. In embodiments, for example, for backlighting purposes or for other purposes, the correlated color temperature (CCT) may in particular be in the range of approximately 7000K and 20,000K. Furthermore, in embodiments, the correlated color temperature (CCT) is in particular within approximately 15 SDCM (standard deviation of color matching) from the BBL (blackbody locus), in particular within approximately 10 SDCM from the BBL, and even more in particular within approximately 5 SDCM from the BBL.

[0133] In certain embodiments, the correlated color temperature (CCT) may be selected from the range of 6000-12000 K, such as from the range of 7000-12000 K, such as at least 8000 K. Furthermore, in embodiments, the correlated color temperature (CCT) may be selected from the range of 6000-12000 K, such as from the range of 7000-12000 K, in combination with a CRI of at least 70.

[0134] The terms "visible," "visible light," or "visible emission," and similar terms, refer to light having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 380-780 nm. In this context, UV refers in particular to wavelengths selected from the range of 190-380 nm, for example, 200-380 nm. 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 certain embodiments, particularly for lighting applications, the terms "light" and "radiation" refer (at least) to visible light.

[0135] The terms "violet light" or "violet emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 380-440 nm. In specific embodiments, the violet light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 380-440 nm. The terms "green light" or "green emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 490-560 nm. In specific embodiments, the green light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 490-560 nm. The terms "yellow light" or "yellow emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 560-590 nm. In specific embodiments, the yellow light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 560-590 nm. The terms "orange light" or "orange emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 590-620 nm. In specific embodiments, the orange light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 590-620 nm. The terms "red light" or "red emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 620-750 nm. In particular embodiments, the red light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 620-750 nm. The terms "cyan light" or "cyan emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 490-520 nm. In particular embodiments, the cyan light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 490-520 nm. The terms "amber light" or "amber emission" and similar terms may particularly relate to light having a wavelength in the range of approximately 585-605 nm, for example, approximately 590-600 nm. In particular embodiments, the amber light may have a centroid wavelength in the range of 585-605 nm. The phrase "light having one or more wavelengths in a wavelength range" and similar phrases may particularly indicate that the indicated light (or radiation) has a spectral power distribution that has at least one or more intensities at these one or more wavelengths in the indicated wavelength range. For example, a blue emitting solid state light source will have a spectral power distribution with intensity at one or more wavelengths within the 440-495 nm wavelength range.

[0136] The term "control" and similar terms particularly refer to at least determining the behavior of an element or supervising the operation of an element. Therefore, "control" and similar terms herein may, for example, refer to imposing an action on an element (determining the action or supervising the operation of an element), such as, for example, measuring, displaying, actuating, opening, moving, changing the temperature, etc. In addition, the term "control" and similar terms may also 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 denoted 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 embodiments, 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 in which, 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 or may be functionally coupled to a user interface.

[0137] The control system can also be configured to receive and execute instructions from a remote control. In an embodiment, the control system can be controlled via an app on a device, such as a portable device such as a smartphone or iPhone, a tablet, etc. Therefore, the device is not necessarily coupled to the lighting system, but can be (temporarily) functionally coupled to the lighting system.

[0138] Therefore, in an embodiment, the control system can (also) be configured to be controlled by an app on a remote device. In such an embodiment, the control system of the lighting system can be a slave control system or controlled in slave mode. For example, the lighting system can be identified 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, which accesses the lighting system based on knowledge of the (unique) code (entered via a user interface with an optical sensor (e.g., a QR code reader)). The lighting system may also include means for communicating with other systems or devices, such as based on Bluetooth, Thread, WIFI, LiFi, ZigBee, BLE or WiMAX, or other wireless technologies.

[0139] A system, device or apparatus may perform actions in a "mode" or "operating mode" or "mode of operation" or "operational mode". The term "operational mode" may also be expressed as "control mode". Similarly, in a method, actions or phases or steps may be performed in a "mode" or "operating mode" or "mode of operation" or "operational mode". This does not exclude that a 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 one or more other modes may be executed before and / or after the execution of a mode.

[0140] However, in embodiments, a control system may be available that is adapted to provide at least a control mode. If other modes are available, the selection of these modes may in particular be performed via a user interface, although other options (such as executing a mode based on sensor signals or (time) schemes) are also possible. In embodiments, an operating mode may also refer to a system, device or apparatus that can only be operated in a single operating mode (i.e., "on", without further tunability).

[0141] Therefore, in an embodiment, the control system may be controlled according to one or more of an input signal of 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.

[0142] The term "centroid wavelength," also denoted λc, is known in the art and refers to the wavelength value at which half of the light energy is at shorter wavelengths and half of the energy is at longer wavelengths; the value is expressed in nanometers (nm). It is the wavelength that divides the integral of the spectral power distribution into two equal parts, as expressed by the formula λc = ∑λ*I(λ) / (∑I(λ)), where the sum is 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 over the emission band normalized to the integrated intensity). The centroid wavelength can be determined, for example, under operating conditions.

[0143] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" relate to the arrangement of items or features relative to the propagation of light from a light generating device (here in particular a light source), wherein, relative to a first position in a light beam from the light generating device, a second position in the light beam that is closer to the light generating device is "upstream" and a third position in the light beam that is further away from the light generating device is "downstream". BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0144] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

[0145] Figures 1a to 1e schematically depict some embodiments of the system;

[0146] Figures 2a-2b schematically depict some further embodiments of the system; similarly,

[0147] Figures 3a to 3b and Figure 4 Some embodiments of the system are schematically depicted.

[0148] Figure 5 Some application embodiments are schematically depicted.

[0149] The schematic diagrams are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0150] Figures 1a to 1e schematically depict some embodiments of a light generating system 1000. In particular, the light generating system 1000 may include a light generating device 100 and a light conversion system 2000. The light generating device 100 may be configured to generate device light 101. Furthermore, the light generating device 100 may, in particular, include a solid-state light source, such as, in embodiments, one or more of a laser light source and a superluminescent diode. In certain embodiments, the device light may include, in particular, a laser. Furthermore, the light conversion system 2000 may include a light-transmitting body 2100 and a luminescent material 200. In particular, the light-transmitting body 2100 may be configured to be rotatable about an axis of rotation A; the light-transmitting body 2100 may include: (i) an outer surface 2110, which is configured to be spaced a distance r1 from the axis of rotation A; and (ii) an inner portion 2120, which is surrounded by the outer surface 2110, wherein at least a portion of the inner portion 2120 is light-transmitting to the device light 101. However, in embodiments, the luminescent material 200 can be configured to convert at least a portion of the device light 101 received by the luminescent material 200 into luminescent material light 201. In particular, the luminescent material 200 can be configured at a portion of the exterior surface 2110. In embodiments, the light generating system 1000 can be configured such that, during operation of the light generating system 1000, at least a portion of the device light illuminates at least a portion of the luminescent material 200 from the interior portion 2120 for at least a portion of the time. Figures 1a and 1c may illustrate embodiments of hollow cylinders or block-shaped rods. Figures 1b, 1d, and 1e schematically depict embodiments of hollow cylinders in cross-sectional views. In embodiments, the light-transmitting body 2100 may comprise a light-transmitting solid rod, wherein the rod may comprise one or more of a polymer material, a ceramic material, and a single crystal. Reference numeral H refers to the height of the light-transmitting body. A characteristic value of height H may be selected from the range of 5-200 mm, for example, 10-100 mm. Reference numeral H1 represents the height of the annular arrangement. The characteristic value of the height of the annular arrangement(s) can be selected from the range of 1-10 mm. The luminescent material can have a layer thickness d1, see FIG. 3 a. The characteristic value can be selected from the range of 0.1-0.5 mm. The radius r1 can be selected, for example, from the range of 10-100 mm.

[0151] Thus, the light conversion system 2000 may have a circular cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the rotation axis A. In particular, the luminescent material 200 may be arranged in at least a portion of the annular arrangement 2130 at the outer face 2110 .

[0152] In an embodiment, the luminescent material 200 in at least a portion of the annular arrangement 2130 configured at the outer surface 2110 can be configured to absorb a portion of the device light 101 received by the luminescent material 200; wherein the light generating system 1000 can be configured such that the device light 101 illuminating the luminescent material 200 from outside the light conversion system 2000 in at least a portion of the annular arrangement 2130 is at least partially transmitted by the luminescent material 200 and the inner portion 2120, and during operation of the light generating system 1000, at least a portion of the time, also illuminates at least a portion of the luminescent material 200 from the inner portion 2120 at another portion of the light conversion system 2000.

[0153] 1a and 1c , the luminescent material 200 may include a first luminescent material 210 and a second luminescent material 220 different from the first luminescent material 210, wherein the first luminescent material 210 may be arranged in at least a portion of a first annular arrangement 2131 on the outer surface 2110, and wherein the second luminescent material 210 may be arranged in at least a portion of a second annular arrangement 2132 on the outer surface 2110. In both figures, three annular arrangements are shown as an example. However, there may be fewer or more annular arrangements.

[0154] Thus, in an embodiment, the light generating system 1000 may include (a) a first luminescent material 210 arranged in at least a portion of a first annular arrangement 2131 at the exterior face 2110, and (b) a second luminescent material 210 arranged in at least a portion of a second annular arrangement 2132 at the exterior face 2110, and (c) a third luminescent material 230 arranged in at least a portion of a third annular arrangement 2133 at the exterior face 2110. In particular, the first luminescent material 210, the second luminescent material 220, and the third luminescent material 230 may be different from each other.

[0155] 1 c , the first luminescent material 210 arranged in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement 2131 at the outer face 2110 can be configured to absorb a portion of the device light 101 received by the first luminescent material 210; wherein the light generating system 1000 can be configured such that the device light 101 illuminating the first luminescent material 210 in at least a portion of the annular arrangement 2130 from outside the light conversion system 2000 is also at least partially transmitted by the first luminescent material 210 and the inner portion 2120, and at least a portion of the second luminescent material 220 is illuminated from the inner portion 2120 in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement 2132 at the outer face 2110 for at least a portion of the time during operation of the light generating system 1000. For example, in an embodiment, the light generating system 1000 can be configured such that an optical axis O of the device light 101 illuminating the first luminescent material 210 in at least a portion of the annular arrangement 2130 from outside the light conversion system 2000 has an angle α that is not equal to zero with a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis A.

[0156] Referring to Figure 1b, in an embodiment, a spectral filter 510 may be disposed within the cylinder, at approximately the same height as the annular arrangement. Such a spectral filter may be configured to transmit a portion of the light and reflect another portion of the light. For example, the spectral filter may be configured to transmit at least a portion of the device light and substantially reflect the luminescent light. Here, the spectral filter 510 is located within the cylinder. However, such a spectral filter 510 may also be disposed between the light-transmitting body and the luminescent material.

[0157] 1b, 1d, and 1e, the light-transmitting body 2100 may include a hollow cylinder 2180. The hollow cylinder 2180 may include a cylinder wall 2181. Specifically, the cylinder wall 2181 may include an outer surface 2110. Furthermore, the inner portion 2120 may include a cavity 2182.

[0158] 1b, 1d, and 1e, the light generating system 1000 may further include a first redirection optic 2200. In an embodiment, the first redirection optic 2200 may be disposed within the cavity 2182 and configured to redirect at least a portion of the device light 101 transmitted by the first luminescent material 210 to the second luminescent material 220. Referring to FIG1e, the first redirection optic 2200 includes an ellipsoidal reflector.

[0159] 2 a - 2 b , the light generating system 1000 may further include a control system 300 and an actuator 320 , wherein the actuator 320 may be configured to controllably manipulate the light beam 101 of the device light and / or control the translational position of the light conversion system 2000 along the rotation axis A. In particular, the control system 300 may be configured to control the position at which the device light 101 illuminates the luminescent material 200 by controlling the actuator 320 .

[0160] For example, in an embodiment, the control system 300 can be configured to control the lighting generation system 1000 in a first operating mode or a second operating mode, wherein: a) in the first operating mode, the first annular arrangement 2131 can be configured to be in a light-receiving relationship with the light generating device 100, and the light generating device 100 can be configured to illuminate the first luminescent material 210 in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement 2131 from outside the light conversion system 2000; and b) in the second operating mode, the second annular arrangement 2132 can be configured to be in a light-receiving relationship with the light generating device 100, and the light generating device 100 can be configured to illuminate the second luminescent material 220 in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement 2132 from outside the light conversion system 2000. In both figures, two annular arrangements are shown as an example. However, three or more annular arrangements are also possible, see also above. FIG. 2a illustrates an embodiment in which a light beam is manipulated. FIG. 2b illustrates an embodiment in which a light-transmitting body is translated along an axis A.

[0161] Thus, referring to Figures 1a to 2b, different parallel rings of phosphors of different colors can be applied to the surface of a hollow cylinder. There are no restrictions on the size of the gaps between the phosphor rings: a phosphor ring may or may not be directly adjacent to the first and / or second rings. Furthermore, the interface between the phosphor and the cylinder is transparent for blue excitation light and substantially reflective for converted light. This can be achieved by applying a dichroic mirror coating to the transparent cylinder. Similar to the reflective rotating cylinder, the transmissive rotating cylinder must also be a good thermal conductor. A viable choice for a thermally conductive transparent material is sapphire, which has a thermal conductivity of approximately 25 W / mK at room temperature and is available in tubular form. In some embodiments, conversion occurs partially within the phosphor rings. In particular, in embodiments on portions of the inner cylinder where there are no phosphor rings on the outer side, a heat sink can be applied.

[0162] In an embodiment, a primary color tunable beam is generated similarly to that generated using a reflective rotating cylinder. However, in this case, because the conversion of the pump light into the first color tunable beam is partial, a portion of the excitation laser beam is transmitted through the transparent rotating cylinder. This transmitted excitation laser beam can be used to generate a second beam of a different color, or it can be reused without further luminescence conversion.

[0163] In order to generate an additional color-tunable light beam based on the transmitted unconverted portion of the incident light beam, various possible options exist.

[0164] In an embodiment, the incident laser excitation beam is perpendicular to the surface of the rotating cylinder in a plane passing through the axis of rotation and the internal reflector, see, for example, Figures 1d-1e. Inside the hollow transparent rotating cylinder, there can be a static, i.e., non-rotating, specular reflector that reflects the transmitted excitation laser beam in different directions to different phosphor rings (i.e., different colors). In Figures 1d-1e, the second converted beam is oriented at, for example, 90° to the first converted beam, for example, but not limited to, this angle.

[0165] In an embodiment, the internal reflector can be rotatable (main rotation axis perpendicular to the rotation axis of the cylinder) and / or translatable (along the axis of the cylinder and / or along the axis of the incident light beam) so that the color of the second phosphor ring, i.e. the second light beam, can be selected.

[0166] In an embodiment, in order to focus the transmitted laser beam to a point on the second phosphor ring, the shape of the internal static reflector can preferably be ellipsoidal and arranged so that the phosphor excitation point is at the two focal points of the ellipsoidal reflector. This configuration is particularly beneficial in the case where the laser beam has already partially transmitted through the diffuse luminescent converter layer also seen above.

[0167] In embodiments, the color of the first light beam can be selected by moving the rotating cylinder along its axis of rotation. The color of the second light beam can be selected independently of the first light beam by rotating and / or translating an internal reflector. Alternatively or additionally, a reflector is used to redirect and / or focus the transmitted pump light within the cylinder, and one or more lenses can be used to collect the transmitted pump light and focus it elsewhere on the second luminescence converter ring from the interior of the cylinder. Alternatively or additionally, the transmitted pump light is not projected onto another luminescence converter ring, but is instead used without further conversion and is thus projected only to a location either at the cylinder wall or at one of the cylinder's ends where it can exit the cylinder to recombine with the first converted light beam. In cases where the pump light is used without further conversion, a combination of lenses and reflectors can also be used to project the transmitted laser beam within the cylinder onto another luminescence converter ring or a transparent ring.

[0168] Referring to Figure 3a, an alternative embodiment is shown which does not necessarily involve translational mechanical movement of the cylinder nor translation of the incident pump beam. Pumping can be performed by mixing two blue light generating devices (such as lasers) with wavelengths λ1 and λ2 or polarizations p1 and p2. The dichroic beam splitter (or polarization beam splitter) can be provided with a 90° turning prism, indicated by the dotted line. Therefore, the dichroic beam splitter (or polarization beam splitter) indicated by the dotted line is equipped with a 90° turning prism or a reflector. The assembly can be fixed inside the rotating cylinder. The combined beam is separated by the dichroic beam splitter. As shown in the figure, the two blue beams of device light 101 are directed to two phosphor rings on the rotating cylinder. By varying the power of the pump wavelengths λ1 and λ2, the spectrum of the total output can be varied.

[0169] 3a, the luminescent material may have a layer thickness d1 selected, for example, from the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. Here, the luminescent material protrudes from the light-transmitting body. However, the luminescent material (e.g., in an annular arrangement) may also be provided in an (annular) recess in the outer face 2110.

[0170] Note that the radius of the light-transmitting body can be substantially the distance from the axis of rotation to the outer surface 2110. The outer surface can be provided with a luminescent material. In other embodiments, a recess can be partially present in the outer surface if the luminescent material is provided in the recess in the outer surface.

[0171] Figure 3a only shows the selection of two different wavelengths.Similarly, two different polarizations can be imposed using a polarization beam splitter.

[0172] Referring to Figure 3b, an embodiment is schematically shown which does not necessarily involve translational mechanical movement of the cylinder nor translation of the incident pump beam. Pumping can be performed with a mixture of two blue light generating devices (such as lasers) with wavelengths λ1 and λ2 or polarizations p1 and p2. A 90° turning prism is provided with an internal dichroic coating that can separate the two wavelengths / polarizations. The prism is fixed inside the rotating cylinder. The combined beam pumps the first phosphor. The unconverted transmitted blue light is separated by the turning prism and the corresponding blue wavelengths pump the second and third phosphors as shown. By varying the power of the pump wavelengths λ1 and λ2, the spectral color of the total output can be changed.

[0173] Similarly, different polarizations can be applied. Device light with two different polarizations or controllable polarizations can then be provided. Device light with different polarizations can have the same pump wavelength. The different polarizations can specifically be s-polarized light and p-polarized light. In such an embodiment, a polarization beam splitter can be configured in place of the dichroic beam splitter. Furthermore, the right-hand diagrams in Figures 3a and 3b are not necessarily relevant, as the distinction is not based on pump wavelength, but rather on polarization, which is essentially independent of the pump wavelength.

[0174] Thus, in an embodiment of the light generating system 1000, the light-transmitting body 2100 can include a hollow cylinder 2180. In particular, the hollow cylinder 2180 can include a cylinder wall 2181, wherein the cylinder wall 2181 can include an exterior surface 2110. In particular, the interior portion 2120 can include a cavity 2182. In particular, in an embodiment, the light generating system 1000 can further include a second redirection optic 2300. In an embodiment, the second redirection optic 2300 is disposed within the cavity 2182; wherein the light generating device 100 and the second redirection optic 2300 are configured such that the first luminescent material 210 and / or the second luminescent material 220 are illuminated from within the light conversion system 2000 via the second redirection optic 2300 and are not first transmitted by the first or second luminescent material.

[0175] In an embodiment, the hollow cylinder 2180 may include a cylinder opening 2183, wherein one or more light generating devices 100 are configured outside the hollow cylinder 2180, and wherein the light generating system 1000 may be configured such that the second redirecting optical device 2300 receives at least a portion of the device light 101 via the cylinder opening 2183.

[0176] 3a-3b , one or more light generation devices 100 configured to generate device light 101 may have one or more of (i) a controllable spectral power distribution and (ii) a controllable polarization. In particular, in embodiments, the second redirection optics 2300 may include one or more of: a dichroic mirror, one or more polarization-dependent reflectors, and / or a polarization-dependent filter. Furthermore, in embodiments, the light generation system 1000 may be configured such that, depending on one or more of the spectral power distribution and polarization of the device light 101, the second redirection optics 2300 directs the device light 101 into the first annular arrangement 2131 and / or the second annular arrangement 2132. In particular, in embodiments, the light generation system 1000 may further include a control system 300 configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution and polarization of the device light 101.

[0177] 3a-3b, the present invention can provide, inter alia, a (tunable) laser light engine having a rotating cylinder or a rotating rod. Tunability can be in the spectral power distribution of the device light (as shown) or in polarization (not shown, but described).

[0178] Refer to Figure 1d and Figure 4, the light generating system 1000 can be configured to generate system light 1001 including one or more of the device light 101 and the luminescent material light 201. In particular, the light generating system 1000 can also include a system optical device 2400, which is configured to receive at least part of the device light 101 and / or at least part of the luminescent material light 201, and to perform beam shaping on the system light 1001. In Figure 1d, reference numeral 2401 represents a specular reflector. Reference numeral 2402 represents a dichroic mirror, which can be reflective for the first luminescent material light 211 and transmissive for the second luminescent material light 221. Other structures are also possible. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the light-transmitting body 2100 is arranged in a hollow reflector. A hole in the wall of the hollow reflector can allow the device light 101 to enter.

[0179] Referring to eg Figs. 1a, 1c, 2b, 3a and 3d, the annular arrangement 2130 may comprise the luminescent material 200, in particular with a substantially constant height H1 and in particular with a substantially constant thickness d1 over the entire ring.

[0180] In an embodiment, the system optics 2400 may include a light homogenizing device, wherein the light homogenizing device is selected from the group consisting of a diffuser, an integrating rod, an integrating fly's eye lens array, and a Koehler optic.

[0181] In an embodiment not shown, the system 1000 may further include a light output sensor for determining a device output signal related to the output of the device light 101 emitted by the light generating device 100. The system 1000 may further include a luminescent material light sensor for determining a luminescent material light signal related to the output of the luminescent material light 201 emitted by the luminescent material 200. In particular, the control system 300 may be adapted to receive the device output signal and the luminescent material light signal, determine a safe operating parameter based on the device output signal and the luminescent material light signal, and control the operation of the light generating device 100 based on a comparison between the safe operating parameter and at least one predefined threshold value.

[0182] In an embodiment not shown, the system may further include a sensor configured to sense one or more of the rotation of the light-transmitting body 2100, the position of the luminescent material 200, and the luminescent material light 201, and generate a related sensor signal; wherein the control system 300 may be configured to control controllable parameters of the light generating system according to the sensor signal, wherein the controllable parameters are selected from the group consisting of: the propagation direction of the light beam of the device light 101, the translational position of the light conversion system 2000 along the rotation axis A, the controllable arrangement of the position of the first redirecting optical device 2200, the controllable arrangement of the position of the third redirecting optical device 2200, the spectral power distribution of the first device light 101, the polarization of the first device light 101, and the output of one or more light generating devices 100.

[0183] Figure 5 An embodiment of a luminaire 2 comprising a light generating system 1000 as described above is schematically depicted. Reference numeral 301 denotes a user interface which may be functionally coupled to a control system 300 comprised by the light generating system 1000 or functionally coupled thereto. Figure 5 Also schematically shown is an embodiment of a lamp 1 comprising a light generating system 1000. Reference numeral 3 denotes a projector device or a projector system, which can be used, for example, to project an image on a wall, which can also comprise the light generating system 1000. Thus, Figure 5 An embodiment of a lighting device 1200 selected from the group consisting of a lamp 1, a luminaire 2, a projector device 3, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device is schematically depicted, comprising a light generating system 1000 as 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. Reference numeral 1201 designates lighting device light escaping from lighting device 1200. Lighting device light 1201 may essentially consist of system light 1001 and, therefore, in certain embodiments, may be system light 1001. Reference numeral 1300 designates a space, such as a room. Reference numeral 1305 designates a floor, reference numeral 1310 designates a ceiling, and reference numeral 1307 designates a wall.

[0184] The term "plurality" means two or more.

[0185] The terms "substantially" or "essentially" and similar terms herein will be understood by those skilled in the art. The terms "substantially" or "essentially" may also include embodiments with "completely", "completely", "entirely", etc. Therefore, in embodiments, the adjectives "essentially" or "essentially" may also be removed. Where applicable, the terms "essentially" or "essentially" may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%.

[0186] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments wherein the term "comprising" means "consisting of.

[0187] The term "and / or" specifically relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after "and / or". For example, the phrase "item 1 and / or item 2" and similar phrases can relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" can mean "consisting of" in one embodiment, but can also mean "containing at least the defined substances and optionally one or more additional substances" in another embodiment.

[0188] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third, etc. in the description and claims are used to distinguish 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 those described or illustrated herein.

[0189] These devices, apparatuses or systems may be described herein during operation. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatuses or systems in operation.

[0190] 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.

[0191] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

[0192] 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 specification 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."

[0193] The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0194] The present invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, apparatus claim, or system claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be implemented by the same item of hardware. The fact that certain measures are recited 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 as described herein.

[0195] 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 provides a computer program product that, when executed on a computer functionally coupled to or included in an apparatus, device, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such an apparatus, device, or system.

[0196] The present invention also applies to an apparatus, device or system comprising one or more of the features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention also relates to a method or process comprising one or more of the features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0197] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments can be combined, and more than two embodiments can also be combined. In addition, some features can form the basis of one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. A light generating system (1000), comprising a light generating device (100) and a light conversion system (2000), wherein: The light generating device (100) is configured to generate device light (101); wherein the light generating device (100) comprises a solid-state light source, wherein the solid-state light source comprises one or more of a laser light source and a superluminescent diode; The light conversion system (2000) comprises a light-transmitting body (2100) and a luminescent material (200); The light-transmitting body (2100) is configured to be rotatable about a rotation axis (A); the light-transmitting body (2100) comprises (i) an outer surface (2110), the outer surface being configured to be at a distance (r1) from the rotation axis (A), and (ii) an inner portion (2120) surrounded by the outer surface (2110), wherein at least a portion of the inner portion (2120) is light-transmitting to the device light (101); The luminescent material (200) is configured to convert at least a portion of the device light (101) received by the luminescent material (200) into luminescent material light (201); wherein the luminescent material (200) is configured at a portion of the exterior face (2110); wherein the light conversion system (2000) has a circular cross-sectional shape; wherein the luminescent material (200) is arranged in at least a portion of an annular arrangement (2130) at the outer face (2110) of the light-transmitting body (2100); and The light generating system (1000) is configured such that during operation of the light generating system (1000), at least a portion of the device light illuminates at least a portion of the luminescent material (200) from the interior portion (2120) during at least a portion of the time.

2. The light generating system (1000) of claim 1, wherein the light generating device (100) comprises a laser diode.

3. A light generating system (1000) according to claim 2, wherein the luminescent material (200) in at least a portion of the annular arrangement (2130) configured at the outer surface (2110) is configured to absorb a portion of the device light (101) received by the luminescent material (200); and wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured so that the device light (101) irradiating the luminescent material (200) in at least a portion of the annular arrangement (2130) from the outside of the light conversion system (2000) is at least partially transmitted by the luminescent material (200) and the inner portion (2120), and during operation of the light generating system (1000), during at least a portion of the time, irradiates at least a portion of the luminescent material (200) at another portion of the light conversion system (2000).

4. A light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims 2 to 3, wherein the luminescent material (200) includes a first luminescent material (210) and a second luminescent material (220) different from the first luminescent material (210), wherein the first luminescent material (210) is configured in at least a portion of a first annular arrangement (2131) at the outer surface (2110), and wherein the second luminescent material (210) is configured in at least a portion of a second annular arrangement (2132) at the outer surface (2110).

5. A light generating system (1000) according to claim 4, wherein the first luminescent material (210) in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement (2131) configured at the outer surface (2110) is configured to absorb a portion of the device light (101) received by the first luminescent material (210); wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured so that the device light (101) irradiating the first luminescent material (210) in at least a portion of the annular arrangement (2130) from the outside of the light conversion system (2000) is at least partially transmitted by the first luminescent material (210) and the inner portion (2120), and during operation of the light generating system (1000), during at least a portion of the time, irradiates at least a portion of the second luminescent material (220) in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement (2132) at the outer surface (2110).

6. A light generating system (1000) according to claim 5, wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured so that the optical axis (O) of the device light (101) that illuminates the first luminescent material (210) in at least a portion of the annular arrangement (2130) from outside the light conversion system (2000) has an angle (α) that is not equal to zero with a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (A).

7. A light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims 5 to 6, wherein the light-transmitting body (2100) comprises a hollow cylinder (2180), wherein the hollow cylinder (2180) comprises a cylinder wall (2181), wherein the cylinder wall (2181) comprises the outer surface (2110); wherein the inner part (2120) comprises a cavity (2182); wherein the light generating system (1000) further comprises a first redirecting optical device (2200); wherein the first redirecting optical device (2200) is arranged within the cavity (2182) and is configured to redirect at least a portion of the device light (101) transmitted by the first luminescent material (210) to the second luminescent material (220).

8. The light generating system (1000) of claim 7, wherein the first redirecting optics (2200) comprises an ellipsoidal reflector.

9. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 8 further comprises a control system (300) and an actuator (320), wherein the actuator (320) is configured to controllably manipulate the light beam of the device light (101) and / or control the translational position of the light conversion system (2000) along the rotation axis (A); wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the position of the device light (101) irradiating the luminescent material (200) by controlling the actuator (320).

10. The light generating system (1000) of claim 9, wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the light generating system (1000) in a first operating mode or a second operating mode, wherein: In the first operating mode, the first annular arrangement (2131) is configured to be in a light receiving relationship with the light generating device (100), the light generating device (100) being configured to illuminate the first luminescent material (210) in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement (2131) from outside the light conversion system (2000); as well as In the second operating mode, the second annular arrangement (2132) is configured to be in a light receiving relationship with the light generating device (100), and the light generating device (100) is configured to illuminate the second luminescent material (220) in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement (2132) from outside the light conversion system (2000).

11. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 4, wherein the light-transmitting body (2100) comprises a hollow cylinder (2180), wherein the hollow cylinder (2180) comprises a cylinder wall (2181), wherein the cylinder wall (2181) comprises the outer surface (2110); wherein the inner portion (2120) comprises a cavity (2182); wherein the light generating system (1000) further comprises a second redirecting optical device (2300); wherein the second redirecting optical device (2300) is arranged within the cavity (2182); wherein the light generating device (100) and the second redirecting optical device (2300) are configured such that the first luminescent material (210) and / or the second luminescent material (220) are illuminated from the interior of the light conversion system (2000) via the second redirecting optical device (2300).

12. The light generating system (1000) of claim 11, wherein one or more of the light generating devices (100) configured to generate device light (101) have one or more of: (i) a controllable spectral power distribution and (ii) a controllable polarization; wherein the second redirecting optical device (2300) comprises one or more of: (a) a dichroic mirror, and (b) one or more polarization-dependent reflectors and / or polarization-dependent filters; wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured such that, depending on one or more of the spectral power distribution and the polarization of the device light (101), the second redirecting optical device (2300) directs the device light (101) to the first annular arrangement (2131) and / or the second annular arrangement (2132); wherein the light generating system (1000) further comprises a control system (300) configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution and the polarization of the device light (101).

13. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: (a) the first luminescent material (210) and (b) the second luminescent material (210) as defined in claim 4, the first luminescent material being arranged in at least a portion of the first annular arrangement (2131) at the outer face (2110), and the second luminescent material being arranged in at least a portion of the second annular arrangement (2132) at the outer face (2110); and (c) a third luminescent material (230) configured in at least a portion of a third annular arrangement (2133) at the outer face (2110); wherein the first luminescent material (210), the second luminescent material (220) and the third luminescent material (230) are different from each other.

14. A light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured to generate system light (1001) comprising one or more of the device light (101) and the luminescent material light (201); wherein the light generating system (1000) further comprises a system optical device (2400), which is configured to (a) receive at least a portion of the device light (101) and / or at least a portion of the luminescent material light (201), and (b) perform beam shaping on 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 car headlamp, the lighting device comprising a light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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