CCT control with laser bank is achieved by splitting the laser bank light into different parts to focus the lasers onto the phosphor and diffuser

Abstract

The present invention provides a light generation system (1000) configured to generate system light (1001), wherein the light generation system (1000) includes a first light generation device (2000), a second light generation device (3000), a first luminescent material (210), a second luminescent material (220), a diffuser device (710), a control system (300), and optical devices (500). In some embodiments, the optical devices (500) include a first beam splitter (TR1), a second beam splitter (TR2), a first beam combiner device (C1), a second beam combiner device (C2), a third beam combiner device (C3), and a main beam combiner device (590). The control system (300) controls the spectral power distribution of the system light (1001) by controlling the first light generation device (2000) and the second light generation device (3000).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a light generating system. It also relates to a lighting device including a light generating system. Background Technology

[0002] Laser light sources are a known technology in the art. For example, US2018316160A1 describes an apparatus and method for an integrated white electromagnetic radiation source that combines a gallium nitride-based laser diode excitation source and a phosphor-based light emission source. A gallium nitride-based violet, blue, or other wavelength laser diode light source can be tightly integrated with a phosphor material (such as a yellow phosphor) to form a compact, high-brightness, and high-efficiency white light source. Summary of the Invention

[0003] High-brightness light sources can be used in a variety of applications, including spotlights, projection, stage lighting, headlights, home and office lighting, entertainment lighting, and automotive lighting. For this purpose, laser-phosphor technology can be employed, where a laser provides the light, and a remote phosphor converts the laser into converted light. A relatively simple method for generating white light using a laser is to combine a (blue) laser with a (yellow) phosphor to produce phosphor-converted light. Laser-phosphor systems allow for the generation of high-brightness light and can therefore be used in projection systems, including displays such as cinema projectors and projectors for home, school, and office applications, automotive headlights, searchlights, stage lighting, architectural lighting, and special lighting applications. However, such laser-phosphor systems may only produce a single color point and / or only light with a specific correlated color temperature (CCT), determined by the phosphor. Developing a product family offering different color points and / or CCTs can be challenging, as it may require designing, validating, manufacturing, and stocking multiple unique components. In other cases, such as in RGB-based laser (phosphor) systems, maximum brightness may be limited by the components used; the engine size may be large due to the numerous components, and the system cost may be high due to the large number of specialized parts. Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative light generation system that preferably overcomes at least partially one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages. The object of the present invention is to overcome or improve at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide an effective alternative.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the invention, a light generation system (“system”) configured to generate system light is provided. The light generation system may include a first light generating device and one or more other light generating devices. Specifically, the light generation system may include (at least) a first light generating device and a second light generating device (and optionally one or more other light generating devices). Furthermore, the light generation system may include one or more of a first light-emitting material, a second light-emitting material, a diffuser device, a control system, and optical devices. In embodiments, the optical devices may include a first beam splitter, a second beam splitter (and a third reflector). Furthermore, in embodiments, the optical devices may include a first beam combiner device, a second beam combiner device, and a third beam combiner device. Moreover, the optical devices may include a main beam combiner device. In embodiments, the first light generating device may be configured to generate light from the first light generating device. Specifically, the first light generating device may include one or more first solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the one or more first solid-state light sources are particularly selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. In an embodiment, the first light generating device and optical components may be configured to provide (one or more of the following): (i) a first portion of the light from the first light generating device to a first luminescent material via a first beam splitter and a first beam combiner; (ii) a second portion of the light from the first light generating device to a second luminescent material via a second beam splitter and a second beam combiner; and (iii) a third portion of the light from the first light generating device to a diffuser device via a third reflector and a third beam combiner. In an embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device may be fixed. Therefore, the first light generating device and optical components may be configured to provide portions of the light from the first light generating device to the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device (respectively) via the beam combiner devices through the first and second beam splitters at a fixed ratio. Furthermore, the first light generating device and optics can be configured such that: (i) one of the beamsplitters (especially the second beamsplitter) can be positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices; and (ii) another beamsplitter (especially the first beamsplitter) can be positioned upstream of all three beam combiner devices. For the second (or additional) light generating device, the second (or additional) light generating device can be configured to generate second (or additional) light generating device light. In the second (or additional) light generating device, the second (or additional) light generating device may include one or more second (or additional) solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the one or more second (or additional) solid-state light sources may, in particular, be selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. In embodiments, the second (or additional) light generating device and optics can be configured to provide the second (or additional) light generating device light (also) (respectively) to the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and / or the diffuser device via the beam combiner devices.Specifically, the second light generating device and optical components may be configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the light from the second light generating device to a first light-emitting material via a first beam combiner device; (ii) providing a second portion of the light from the second light generating device to a second light-emitting material via a second beam combiner device; and (iii) providing a third portion of the light from the second light generating device to a diffuser device via a third beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the first light-emitting material may be configured to convert at least a portion (of the first portion) of the light from the first light generating device received by the first light-emitting material into first light-emitting material light. Additionally or alternatively, the first light-emitting material may be configured to convert at least a portion (of the first portion) of the light from the second light generating device received by the first light-emitting material into first light-emitting material light. Furthermore, the first light-emitting material may be configured to convert at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light generating device and / or (b) the second (or other) light generating device into first light-emitting material light. Similarly, the second light-emitting material may be configured to convert at least a portion (of the second portion) of the light from the first light generating device received by the second light-emitting material into second light-emitting material light. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the second luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion (of a second portion) of the light received by the second light generating device from the second luminescent material into second luminescent material light. Furthermore, the second luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light generating device and / or (b) the second (or other) light generating device into second luminescent material light. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the diffuser device may be configured to diffuse at least one-third of the light received from the first light generating device from (a) the diffuser device and at least one-third of the light received from the second light generating device from (b) the diffuser device into diffused light. Furthermore, the diffuser device may be configured to diffuse at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light generating device and / or (b) the second (or other) light generating device into diffused light. In an embodiment, the main beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device. Furthermore, the main beam combiner device can be configured to provide system light comprising one or more of a first luminescent material light, a second luminescent material light, and diffuse light. Therefore, the system light may include one or more of the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and diffuse light. In addition, in embodiments, the system light may particularly include one or more of the following: (i) a first (partial) system light generated solely by the light from the first light generating device; and (ii) a second (partial) system light generated solely by the light from the second light generating device. In embodiments, at least one of the first (partial) system light (and the second (partial) system light) may be white light. Furthermore, in one or more operating modes of the light generating system, the spectral power distribution of the second (partial) system light may differ from the spectral power distribution of the first (partial) system light.In an embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling a first light generating device and a second (or additional) light generating device. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a light generation system configured to generate system light, wherein the light generation system includes a first light generation device, a second light generation device, a first light-emitting material, a second light-emitting material, a diffuser device, a control system, and optical components; wherein: (A) the optical components include a first beam splitter, a second beam splitter, a first beam combiner device, a second beam combiner device, a third beam combiner device, and a main beam combiner device; (B) the first light generation device is configured to generate first light generation device light; wherein the first light generation device includes one or more first solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more first solid-state light sources are selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (C) the first light generation device and the optical components are configured to provide: (i) providing a first portion of the first light generation device light to the first light-emitting material through the first beam splitter and the first beam combiner device; (ii) providing a second portion of the first light generation device light to the second light-emitting material through the second beam splitter and the second beam combiner device; and (iii) providing a third portion of the first light generation device light to the second light-emitting material through the third beam combiner device. (A) A portion of the light is provided to a diffuser device, wherein the ratio of the radiant flux of a first portion of the light from the first light-generating device, a second portion of the light from the first light-generating device, and a third portion of the light from the first light-generating device is fixed; (D) The first light-generating device and the optics are configured such that: (i) one of the beam splitters is disposed upstream of two of the three beam combiners, and (ii) another beam splitter is disposed upstream of all three beam combiners; (E) The second light-generating device is configured to generate second light-generating device light; wherein the second light-generating device includes one or more second solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more second solid-state light sources are selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (F) The second light-generating device and the optics are configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the second light-generating device light to a first luminescent material via the first beam combiner device, (ii) providing a second portion of the second light-generating device light to a second luminescent material via the second beam combiner device, and (iii) providing a third portion of the second light-generating device light to a diffuser device via a third beam combiner device.(G) A first luminescent material is configured to convert (a) at least a portion of the light from a first light-generating device received by the first luminescent material, and (b) at least a portion of the light from a second light-generating device received by the first luminescent material, into light from the first luminescent material; (H) A second luminescent material is configured to convert (a) at least a portion of the light from the first light-generating device received by the second luminescent material, and (b) at least a portion of the light from the second light-generating device received by the second luminescent material, into light from the second luminescent material; (I) A diffuser device is configured to diffuse (a) at least a portion of the light from the first light-generating device received by the diffuser device, and (b) at least a portion of the light from the second light-generating device received by the diffuser device into diffused light; (J) A main beam combiner assembly The device is configured to be located downstream of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, and is configured to provide system light including one or more of the first light-emitting material light, the second light-emitting material light, and / or diffuse light; wherein the system light includes one or more of the following: (i) a first system light generated solely by the light from the first light-generating device, and (ii) a second system light generated solely by the light from the second light-generating device; wherein the first system light is white light, and in one or more operating modes of the light-generating system, the spectral power distribution of the second system light is different from that of the first system light; and (K) the control system is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light-generating device and the second light-generating device.

[0005] Therefore, in one aspect, the present invention can also provide a light generation system (“system”) configured to generate system light, wherein the light generation system includes a first light generation device, one or more other light generation devices, a first luminescent material, a second luminescent material, a diffuser device, a control system, and optical components. In embodiments, the optical components may include a first beam splitter, a second beam splitter, a first beam combiner device, a second beam combiner device, and a third beam combiner device. Specifically, the first light generation device may be configured to generate first light generation device light. In embodiments, the first light generation device may include one or more first solid-state light sources. Furthermore, in embodiments, one or more other light generation devices may be configured to generate one or more other light generation device lights. Specifically, one or more other light generation devices may each include one or more other solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the first light generation device and the optical components may be configured to provide a portion of the first light generation device light to the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device via the beam combiner device at a fixed ratio through the first beam splitter and the second beam splitter. However, in embodiments, one or more other light-generating devices and optics may be configured to provide light from one or more of the other light-generating devices to one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device via a beam combiner device. Specifically (see above), the first luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light-generating device and / or (b) one or more other light-generating devices into first luminescent material light. However, in embodiments, the second luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light-generating device and / or (b) one or more other light-generating devices into second luminescent material light. However, in other embodiments, the diffuser device may be configured to diffuse at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light-generating device and / or (b) one or more other light-generating devices into diffuse light. Specifically, the system light may include one or more of the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and diffuse light. Furthermore, the control system may be configured, in particular, to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light-generating device and one or more other light-generating devices.Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a light generation system configured to generate system light; wherein the light generation system includes a first light generation device, one or more other light generation devices, a first luminescent material, a second luminescent material, a diffuser device, a control system, and optical devices; wherein: (A) the optical devices include a first beam splitter, a second beam splitter, a first beam combiner device, a second beam combiner device, and a third beam combiner device; (B) the first light generation device is configured to generate first light generation device light; wherein the first light generation device includes one or more first solid-state light sources; (C) one or more other light generation devices are configured to generate one or more other light generation device lights; wherein each of the one or more other light generation devices includes one or more other solid-state light sources; (D) the first light generation device and the optical devices are configured to, through the first beam splitter and the second beam splitter, at a fixed ratio, provide a portion of the first light generation device light to the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser respectively through the beam combiner device. (E) One or more other light generating devices and optical components are configured to provide light from one or more of the other light generating devices to one or more of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser via a beam combiner device; (F) The first light-emitting material is configured to convert at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light generating device and / or (b) one or more other light generating devices into first light-emitting material light; (G) The second light-emitting material is configured to convert at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light generating device and / or (b) one or more other light generating devices into second light-emitting material light; (H) The diffuser device is configured to diffuse at least a portion of the light received from (a) the first light generating device and / or (b) one or more other light generating devices into diffuse light; (I) The system light includes one or more of the first light-emitting material light, the second light-emitting material light, and the diffuse light; and (J) The control system is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light generating device and one or more other light generating devices.

[0006] Using this system, the characteristics of the system light (e.g., spectral power distribution and / or CCT) can be adjusted by controlling the first and second light generating devices. Specifically, the contributions of the first (partial) and second system light can be gradually changed, facilitating the gradual adjustment of the optical characteristics of the system light without simply switching between them. Furthermore, since the first and second light generating devices can share at least the same beam combiner, the system can be relatively compact and eliminates the need for separate optics for the first and second light generating devices. Finally, by using both a first and a second luminescent material, the color rendering index (CRI) of the system light can be improved compared to a laser-phosphor system comprising only one luminescent material. Additionally, light with high intensity color (temperature) can be provided.

[0007] Some embodiments of the present invention will be discussed in more detail below.

[0008] In embodiments, the light generation system may include a first light generation device and a second light generation device, each including one or more first solid-state light sources and one or more second solid-state light sources, respectively. Optionally, the light generation system may also include other light generation devices, each of which may (optionally) include one or more other solid-state light sources. The solid-state light sources may (individually) be selected from solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. Hereinafter, the invention will be described in particular with respect to solid-state lasers. The term "other generation device" and similar terms, in embodiments of the light generation system including the first light generation device and the second light generation device, may refer to an optional third light generation device and an optional fourth light generation device; or in embodiments of the light generation system including the first light generation device, may refer to any one of the second light generation device, the optional third light generation device, and the optional fourth light generation device (wherein the second light generation device may be constituted by the light generation system in any manner, while the third and fourth light generation devices may be optional (i.e., the third light generation device or the third and fourth light generation devices may be optionally available).

[0009] In embodiments, the light generating devices (first, second, and optionally additional) may each include a corresponding laser group (or "laser array"). That is, in embodiments, one or more solid-state light sources (of the corresponding light generating devices) may be arranged as a laser group. The laser group can be used to increase input power. In embodiments, the laser group may include heat dissipation elements and / or laser emitting optics, such as lenses for collimating the laser. Therefore, in embodiments, the (solid-state) light sources in the laser group (or "laser array group") may share the same optics. The laser group may include a light generating device comprising a (2D) array of multiple laser diodes arranged on a heat-conducting carrier, and a (lens array) having multiple collimating lenses corresponding to the laser diodes, such that each of the multiple laser diodes includes a collimating lens for collimating the laser emitted by the diode. The device may include a packaged architecture or a canned architecture. In the case of a packaged architecture, the laser diode chip array is arranged on a heat-conducting carrier. Multiple electrodes may be present for electrically connecting the multiple laser diodes.

[0010] However, in some embodiments, one or more (first, second, and optional other) light generating devices may include a single solid-state light source, such as, in particular, a laser light source. In other embodiments, one or more (first, second, and optional additional) light generating devices may include multiple solid-state light sources, wherein the multiple solid-state light sources may be arranged in an array. Specifically, (first, second, and optional additional) light generating devices may include a laser array, wherein one or more solid-state light sources (of the respective light generating devices) may be arranged within the laser array.

[0011] In this document, the term "light generating device" may refer to one or more solid-state light sources. The term "light generating device" may also refer to a laser array. Furthermore, the term "light generating device" may also refer to a combination of one or more solid-state light sources and optical components. For example, in a specific embodiment, the light generating device may include a polarizing element configured to apply a specific polarization to the light generated by the light generating device.

[0012] In an embodiment, a first light generating device (one or more first solid-state light sources) may be configured to generate first light generating device light. Specifically, the first light generating device may include a first laser group, wherein the first laser group may be configured to generate first light generating device light. In an embodiment, the first light generating device light may have a first centroid wavelength λc1. The term "centroid wavelength" (also known as λc) is known in the art and refers to a wavelength value in which half of the light energy is located at a shorter wavelength and half at a longer wavelength; this value is measured in nanometers (nm). It is the wavelength at which the integral of the spectral power distribution is divided into two equal parts, as shown in the formula... The expression, where the summation is performed within the wavelength range of interest, This 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. In an embodiment, the first centroid wavelength λc1 can be selected from the range of 200-490 nm, for example, the range of 400-490 nm, and particularly from the range of 440-490 nm. Therefore, in an embodiment, one or more first light sources can be configured to generate blue light (i.e., light with a centroid wavelength in the range of approximately 440-490 nm). Furthermore, in an embodiment, the first light generating device can have a first (linear) polarization. In an embodiment, the first (linear) polarization can be selected from the group consisting of s-polarization and p-polarization.

[0013] The terms "violet light" or "violet emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 380-440 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of violet light may be in the range of 380-440 nm. The terms "blue light" or "blue emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 440-490 nm (including some violet and cyan). In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of blue light may be in the range of 440-490 nm. The terms "green light" or "green emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 490-560 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of green light may be in the range of 490-560 nm. The terms "yellow light" or "yellow emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 560-590 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of yellow light may be in the range of 560-590 nm. The terms "orange light" or "orange emission" and similar terms may particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 590-620 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of orange light may be in the range of 590-620 nm. The terms "red light" or "red emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 620-750 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of red light may be in the range of 620-750 nm. The terms "cyan light" or "cyan emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 490-520 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of cyan light may be in the range of 490-520 nm. The terms "amber light" or "amber emission" and similar terms particularly refer to light with wavelengths in the range of about 585-605 nm, such as about 590-600 nm. In specific embodiments, the centroid wavelength of amber light may be in the range of 585-605 nm. The phrase "light having one or more wavelengths within a certain wavelength range" and similar expressions particularly indicate that the spectral power distribution of the light (or radiation) referred to has at least a certain intensity at one or more wavelengths within the referred wavelength range. For example, a solid-state light source emitting blue light has an intensity at one or more wavelengths within the wavelength range of 440-490 nm.

[0014] Similarly, in some embodiments, a second light generating device (one or more second solid-state light sources) may be configured to generate second light generating device light. Specifically, the second light generating device may include a second laser group, wherein the second laser group may be configured to generate second light generating device light. Thus, in specific embodiments, a first light generating device may include a first laser group configured to generate first light generating device light, and a second light generating device may include a second laser group configured to generate second light generating device light. As before, the laser group can be used to increase the input power (of one or more light sources). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the (solid-state) light sources in the laser group may share the same optics, thereby reducing the overall size of the light generating system and the number of required components.

[0015] In an embodiment, the second light source may have a second centroid wavelength λc2. In one embodiment, the second centroid wavelength λc2 may be selected from the range of 200-490 nm, for example, the range of 400-490 nm, and more specifically, the range of 440-490 nm. Therefore, in an embodiment, one or more second light sources may be configured to generate blue light. In an embodiment, the second centroid wavelength λc2 may be different from the first centroid wavelength λc1, i.e., λc1 ≠ λc2. Furthermore, in an embodiment, |λc1-λc2|>0 nm, for example, |λc1-λc2|≥5 nm, for example, |λc1-λc2|≥10 nm, especially |λc1-λc2|≥15 nm. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, |λc1-λc2|≤65 nm, for example, |λc1-λc2|≤50 nm, for example, |λc1-λc2|≤40 nm, especially |λc1-λc2|≤30 nm. However, in other embodiments, the second centroid wavelength λc2 may be the same as the first centroid wavelength λc1, i.e., λc1=λc2.

[0016] In an embodiment, the light from the second light-generating device may (also) have a second (linear) polarization. In an embodiment, the second (linear) polarization may be selected from the group consisting of s-polarization and p-polarization. The second polarization may be the same as the first polarization. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the second polarization may be different from the first polarization. That is, in an embodiment, the light from the first light-generating device may have a polarization different from that of the light from the second light-generating device, wherein the first polarization may in particular be orthogonal to the second polarization.

[0017] In embodiments, the first solid-state light source and / or the second solid-state light source may be configured to provide polarized light from the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device, respectively. Alternatively, the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device (each) may include a polarizer, wherein the polarizer is configured to provide polarized light from the light generating device. Thus, the light generating devices (first and / or second) may include polarizers to apply the desired polarization to the light from the (first and / or second) solid-state light sources (see above, respectively). Similarly, this may also be applicable to one or more alternative light generating devices.

[0018] In an embodiment, the light from the first light generating device can be incident on one or more optical devices.

[0019] In an embodiment, the optical device may include a first beam splitter. The first beam splitter may be configured to split the light from the first light generating device (the beam) into a first portion and a remaining portion (also referred to herein as the "propagation portion"). Specifically, the first beam splitter may be configured to reflect (towards the first beam combiner device) the first portion of the light from the first light generating device and transmit the (first) propagation portion of the light from the first light generating device. Specifically, the first portion and the (first) propagation portion of the light from the first light generating device may have the same spectral power distribution (and polarization). Therefore, in an embodiment, the first beam splitter may, in particular, split the light from the first light generating device (the beam) based on the radiant flux (or intensity) over the entire spectral power distribution of the light from the first light generating device. That is, in an embodiment, the first beam splitter may be a transparent mirror (or a semi-transparent, semi-reflective (specular) mirror) with specular reflection properties. In an embodiment, the first beam splitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≥10%, for example ≥20%, particularly ≥30%, of the light received by the first light generating device from the first beam splitter; and (ii) transmit ≤90%, for example ≤80%, particularly ≤70%, of the light received by the first light generating device from the first beam splitter. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the first beam splitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≤75%, for example ≤70%, particularly ≤60%, of the light received by the first light generating device from the first beam splitter; and (ii) transmit ≥25%, for example ≥30%, particularly ≥40%, of the light received by the first light generating device from the first beam splitter.

[0020] In embodiments, the propagating portion of the first light-generating device (which, in some embodiments, is transmitted through the first beamsplitter) can be incident on the second beamsplitter. In embodiments, at the second beamsplitter, a second portion of the light from the first light-generating device can be reflected (particularly reflected towards the second beam combiner device). Furthermore, at the second beamsplitter, a second propagating portion of the light from the first light-generating device (such as, in particular, a third portion of the light from the first light-generating device) can be transmitted (through the second beamsplitter). Therefore, the second beamsplitter can be configured to: (i) partially reflect the first light-generating device light received by the second beamsplitter; and (ii) partially transmit the first light-generating device light received by the second beamsplitter. Specifically, the second beamsplitter can be configured to: (i) reflect ≥50%, for example ≥60%, particularly ≥70%, of the first light-generating device light received by the second beamsplitter; and (ii) transmit ≤50%, for example ≤40%, particularly ≤30%, of the first light-generating device light received by the second beamsplitter. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the second beam splitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≤95%, such as ≤90%, especially ≤85%, of the light received by the second beam splitter from the first light generating device; and (ii) transmit ≥5%, such as ≥10%, especially ≥15%, of the light received by the second beam splitter from the first light generating device. Furthermore, the second beam splitter may be of the same type as the first beam splitter. Specifically, the second beam splitter (and the first beam splitter) may be configured to specularly reflect a portion of the light source light. That is, in an embodiment, the first and second beam splitters may be semi-transparent semi-reflective mirrors. Specifically, the term "semi-transparent semi-reflective mirror" herein may refer to an optical element that combines specular and transmission characteristics, its function being to specularly reflect a portion of the light (of a beam) received by the semi-transparent semi-reflective mirror, while transmitting a portion of the light (of the same beam) received by the semi-transparent semi-reflective mirror. In this way, the light beam can be split into portions propagating in different directions. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the first beam splitter and the second beam splitter can be transparent mirrors (both).

[0021] The advantage of a transparent specular mirror is that its reflection and / or transmission coefficients are substantially the same for each wavelength of the received light (especially blue light, see below). Furthermore, a transparent specular mirror can be configured to transmit at least a portion of the incident light, wherein, for example, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, or more than 50% of the transmitted light is substantially not scattered. Simultaneously, such a transparent specular mirror can also be configured to reflect at least a portion of the incident light, wherein, for example, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, or more than 50% of the reflected light (such as at least 60%) is mirror-reflected. Here, percentages refer to radiant flux.

[0022] Therefore, in the embodiments, the second portion of the light from the first light generating device can have the same spectral power distribution as the first portion of the light from the first light generating device (and the third portion of the light from the first light generating device).

[0023] In an embodiment, a second (and / or third) propagation portion of the light from the first light-generating device can (in this embodiment, after transmission through the second beamsplitter) be incident on the third reflector. Therefore, the optical system may include a third reflector. In an embodiment, the third reflector may be configured downstream of the two beamsplitters (i.e., downstream of the first and second beamsplitters). Furthermore, in an embodiment, the third reflector may be configured upstream of one of the (first, second, and third) beam combiner devices. Specifically, in an embodiment, the third reflector may be configured upstream of the third beam combiner.

[0024] In this article, "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the arrangement of objects or features relative to the direction of propagation of light from the light generating device (specifically, the light generating device). The second position in the light beam closer to the light generating device is "upstream" relative to the first position in the light beam from the light generating device, and the third position in the light beam further away from the light generating device is "downstream".

[0025] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the optical device may include a third reflector, wherein the third reflector may be configured to: (i) be located downstream of the two beam splitters; and (ii) be located upstream of one of the beam combiners selected from the beam combiners. In an embodiment, a second propagation portion (and / or a third portion) of the light from the first light generating device may be reflected at the third reflector. Specifically, the third reflector may reflect the second propagation portion (and / or the third portion) of the light from the first light generating device toward the third beam combiner. In an embodiment, the third reflector may be configured to reflect ≥80%, for example ≥90%, particularly ≥95%, for example ≥99%, including (substantially) 100% of the light received by it (from the first light generating device). In an embodiment, the third reflector may be used only to reflect the light it receives, and therefore may be completely specularly reflective of the received light. Therefore, in embodiments, the light generating system, particularly the optical device, may (also) include one or more mirrors (distributed between the beam splitter and beam combiner devices and / or between the third mirror and beam combiner devices, and) configured to guide a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion of the light from the first light generating device to the respective beam combiner device. Specifically, unless otherwise stated or the context clearly specifies, the term "mirror" herein may refer to a specular mirror.

[0026] Specifically, in the embodiments, the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the light from the first light generating device can have substantially the same spectral power distribution.

[0027] In this article, the term "optical device" can refer to an optical element. The mirrors, beam combiners, beam splitters, main beam combiner devices, etc., mentioned in this article are examples of optical elements that constitute the "optical device" of a light generation system.

[0028] In an embodiment, the first light generating device may thus be configured to provide a first portion of the light from the first light generating device (via a first beamsplitter) to a first beam combiner device, a second portion of the light from the first light generating device (via a second beamsplitter) to a second beam combiner device, and a third portion of the light from the first light generating device (via a third reflector) to a third beam combiner device. Therefore, in an embodiment, one beamsplitter (e.g., particularly the second beamsplitter) may be positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices, while another beamsplitter (e.g., particularly the first beamsplitter) may be positioned upstream of all three beam combiner devices. In an embodiment, the ratio of the (radiative flux) between the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device may be fixed. That is, the first portion of the light from the first light generating device has (substantially always) the same relative radiative flux as the second portion of the light from the first light generating device, and vice versa. Similarly, the second portion of the light from the first light generating device has (substantially always) the same relative radiative flux as the third portion of the light from the first light generating device, and vice versa. In an embodiment, the radiant flux ratio between the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device can be determined by: (i) the percentage of the light from the first light generating device reflected at the first beamsplitter; (ii) the percentage of the light from the first light generating device reflected at the second beamsplitter; and (iii) the percentage of the light from the first light generating device transmitted by the second beamsplitter (and reflected by the third reflector). For example, if the first beamsplitter reflects 25% of the light from the first light generating device, the second beamsplitter reflects 67% of the light from the first light generating device transmitted by the first beamsplitter (and therefore 50% of the total light from the first light generating device), and the second beamsplitter transmits the remaining 33% of the light from the first light generating device (corresponding to 25% of the total light from the first light generating device), then the ratio between the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device can be 1:2:1. Therefore, in an embodiment, the radiant flux ratio (together) of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device may be substantially uncontrollable. However, the radiant flux of the light from the first light generating device is controllable (see below).

[0029] Furthermore, in embodiments, the second light generating device may be configured to provide a first portion of the light from the second light generating device to the first beam combiner device. Additionally or alternatively, the second light generating device may also be configured to provide a second portion of the light from the second light generating device to the second beam combiner device. Additionally or alternatively, the second light generating device may also be configured to provide a third portion of the light from the second light generating device to the third beam combiner device. Therefore, in embodiments, the light from the second light generating device may be divided into a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. In such embodiments, the light generating system (e.g., particularly optical devices) may include a fourth beam splitter, wherein the fourth beam splitter may be configured to (i) mirror-reflect the (first) portion of the received light from the second light generating device, and (ii) transmit the (first) propagation portion of the received light from the second light generating device. Specifically, the fourth beam splitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≥10%, such as ≥20%, especially ≥30%, of the received light from the second light generating device; and (ii) transmit ≤90%, such as ≤80%, especially ≤70%, of the received light from the second light generating device. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the fourth beamsplitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≤75%, such as ≤70%, especially ≤60%, of the second light-generating device light it receives; and (ii) transmit ≥25%, such as ≥30%, especially ≥40%, of the second light-generating device light it receives. Specifically, the (first) portion of the second light-generating device light reflected by the fourth beamsplitter may have the same spectral power distribution as the (first propagation) portion of the second light-generating device light transmitted by the fourth beamsplitter. Therefore, in an embodiment, the fourth beamsplitter may be selected from a group of semi-transparent mirrors (such as transparent specular mirrors and / or semi-transparent semi-reflective specular mirrors). Furthermore, in an embodiment, the fourth beamsplitter may be configured in particular to reflect the first portion of the second light-generating device light toward the first beam combiner device. Therefore, similar to the first beamsplitter, the fourth beamsplitter may include a transparent specular mirror in an embodiment.

[0030] In embodiments, the light generating system (e.g., particularly optical devices) may further include a fifth beam splitter. In embodiments, the fifth beam splitter may be configured to: (i) (mirror) reflect a (second) portion of the light received from the second light generating device, and (ii) transmit a (second) propagation portion of the light received from the second light generating device. Specifically, the fifth beam splitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≥50%, for example ≥60%, particularly ≥70%, of the light received from the second light generating device, and (ii) transmit ≤50%, for example ≤40%, particularly ≤30%, of the light received from the second light generating device. Alternatively, in embodiments, the fifth beam splitter may be configured to: (i) reflect ≤95%, for example ≤90%, particularly ≤85%, of the light received from the second light generating device; and (ii) transmit ≥5%, such as ≥10%, particularly ≥15%, of the light received from the second light generating device. Specifically, the second portion of the second light-generating device light reflected by the fifth beamsplitter may have the same spectral power distribution as the first portion (and / or second propagation portion) of the second light-generating device light transmitted by the fifth beamsplitter. Therefore, in embodiments, the fifth beamsplitter may be selected from a group of semi-transparent mirrors, such as transparent specular mirrors and / or semi-transparent semi-reflective specular mirrors. Furthermore, in embodiments, the fifth beamsplitter may be configured to reflect the second portion of the second light-generating device light toward the second beam combiner device (and transmit the third portion of the second light-generating device light). Therefore, in embodiments, the second light-generating device and optics may be configured such that one of the beamsplitters (e.g., particularly the fifth beamsplitter) may be positioned upstream of two or three (first, second, and third) beam combiner devices. Additionally (or alternatively), in embodiments, the second light-generating device and optics may be configured such that another beamsplitter (e.g., particularly the fourth beamsplitter) may be positioned upstream of all three (first, second, and third) beam combiner devices. Therefore, like the second beam splitter, the fifth beam splitter may include a transparent specular reflector in some embodiments.

[0031] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the light generating system may further include a fourth beam splitter and a fifth beam splitter; wherein the second light generating device and optics may be configured such that: (i) one of the beam splitters may be positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices, and (ii) another beam splitter may be positioned upstream of all three beam combiner devices. This configuration facilitates the splitting of the light from the second light generating device into a first part, a second part, and a third part, thereby allowing the light from the second light generating device to (simultaneously) illuminate the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser.

[0032] In one embodiment, the second light generated by the second light generation device (the second propagation portion and / or the third portion) transmitted by the fifth beam splitter can be guided toward the third beam combiner device.

[0033] In such embodiments, the light generating system (such as, in particular, optical devices) may also include a sixth reflector. The sixth reflector may be configured to reflect the second propagation portion and / or the third portion of the light received from the second light generating device (towards the third beam combiner device). Specifically, the sixth reflector may be configured to reflect ≥80%, for example ≥90%, especially ≥95%, for example ≥99%, including (substantially) 100% of the light received from the second light generating device. In embodiments, the sixth reflector may receive the light transmitted from the fifth beam splitter and reflect it towards the third beam combiner. Therefore, the sixth reflector may be configured downstream of the (fourth and fifth) beam splitters. Furthermore, the sixth reflector may be configured upstream of a selected one of the (first, second, and third) beam combiner devices. Thus, in specific embodiments, the optical device may include a sixth reflector; wherein the sixth reflector may be configured to: (i) be downstream of two beam splitters; (ii) be upstream of a selected one of the beam combiner devices. In an embodiment, the sixth reflector may be used only to reflect the light received therefrom, and therefore may be completely specularly reflective with respect to the received light.

[0034] Specifically, in the embodiments, the first portion of the light from the second light generating device, the second portion of the light from the second light generating device, and the third portion of the light from the second light generating device may have substantially the same spectral power distribution.

[0035] In an embodiment, the second light generating device may be configured to provide a first portion of the light generated by the second light generating device (via a fourth beam splitter) to a first beam combiner device, a second portion of the light generated by the second light generating device (via a fifth beam splitter) to a second beam combiner device, and a third portion of the light generated by the second light generating device (via a sixth reflector) to a third beam combiner device. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the second light generating device may be positioned upstream of the first beam combiner, the second beam combiner, and the third beam combiner (all three).

[0036] Regarding the light from the first light generating device, the (first) ratio of its first, second, and third portions can be fixed. Regarding the light from the second light generating device, there can be various implementations. Several implementations are briefly described below, and these implementations may partially overlap. Some of these implementations will then be described in more detail.

[0037] In the (first) embodiment, the (second) ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light generating device can be fixed. In these embodiments, one or more other light generating devices may be optionally present, but this is not a necessary condition.

[0038] In the (second) embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light generating device can be controllable. In these embodiments, one or more other light generating devices may be selectively provided, but this is not a necessary condition.

[0039] In the (third) embodiment, at least three light generating devices may be present, including a first light generating device, a second light generating device, and an additional (e.g., a third) light generating device. In these embodiments, the ratio of the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device to that from the third light generating device may be fixed. However, alternatively, in these embodiments, the ratio of the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device to that from the third light generating device may be fixed or controllable. Furthermore, in these embodiments, the second light generating device and the optics may be configured such that only one of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device (or optionally both, but particularly one) can receive the light from the second light generating device.

[0040] Therefore, as described above, in the embodiments, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the light from the second light generating device can be fixed. That is, the first portion of the light from the second light generating device can (substantially always) have the same relative radiant flux with respect to the second portion, and vice versa. Similarly, the second portion of the light from the second light generating device can (substantially always) have the same relative radiant flux with respect to the third portion, and vice versa. In the embodiments, the ratio of the radiant flux among the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light generating device can be determined by: (i) the percentage of the light from the second light generating device reflected at the fourth beam splitter; (ii) the percentage of the light from the second light generating device reflected at the fifth beam splitter; and (iii) the percentage of the light from the second light generating device transmitted by the fifth beam splitter (and reflected by the sixth reflector). For example, if the fourth beamsplitter reflects 25% of the light from the second light-generating device, the fifth beamsplitter reflects 67% of the light from the second light-generating device transmitted by the fourth beamsplitter (therefore 50% of the total amount of light from the second light-generating device), and the fifth beamsplitter transmits the remaining 33% of the light from the second light-generating device received by the fifth beamsplitter (corresponding to 25% of the total amount of light from the second light-generating device), then the ratio of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light-generating device can be 1:2:1. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light-generating device can be fixed, and the fourth and fifth beamsplitters can be selected from semi-transparent mirrors. Fixing the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light-generating device has the advantage of eliminating the need for controllable optics (e.g., moving beamsplitters and / or moving reflectors) to adjust the ratio, thereby reducing the risk of mechanical failure of the (moving) beamsplitters and / or reflectors. Furthermore, selecting the fourth and fifth beamsplitters from the semi-transparent mirrors has the advantage of allowing free selection of the centroid wavelength λc2 and / or polarization of the second light-generating device light, since the ratio of the second light-generating device light reflected by the beamsplitters may not depend on the wavelength distribution and / or polarization of the incident light. In such embodiments, the spectral power distribution of the system light can be controlled by controlling the radiant flux of the first and second light-generating device lights. Therefore, this may mean that a first ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the first light-generating device light differs from a second ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the second light-generating device light. These ratios can be selected by choosing the optical characteristics of the optics (e.g., the beamsplitters). Furthermore, the optics can be selected such that the system light generated solely by the first light-generating device light differs from the system light generated solely by the second light-generating device light (see below). In this way, first and second system lights with different color points, different CCTs, and different CRIs can be obtained.

[0041] In an embodiment, a first portion of the light from the first light generating device (and / or a first portion of the light from the second light generating device) can be incident on the first beam combiner device after being reflected by the first beam splitter (and / or the fourth beam splitter). Furthermore, in an embodiment, a second portion of the light from the first light generating device (and / or a second portion of the light from the second light generating device) can be incident on the second beam combiner after being reflected by the second beam splitter (and / or the fifth beam splitter). Furthermore, in an embodiment, a third portion of the light from the first light generating device (and / or a third portion of the light from the second light generating device) can be incident on the third beam combiner after being reflected by the third reflector (and / or the sixth reflector). In an embodiment, in the beam combiner device, the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device can be combined with the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light generating device, respectively. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the light from the first light generating device can illuminate the (corresponding) beam combiner device from a different angle (relative to the main surface of the beam combiner device) than the light from the second light generating device. Specifically, the light from the first light generating device and the light from the second light generating device can illuminate the beam combiner device from mutually perpendicular directions. Therefore, (in order to combine the light from the first light generating device and the light from the second light generating device,) the beam combiner device can be configured to (i) reflect one of the light from the first light generating device and the light from the second light generating device, and (ii) transmit the other of the light from the first light generating device and the light from the second light generating device.

[0042] As described above, in embodiments, the light from the first light-generating device and the light from the second light-generating device can have different (especially orthogonal) (linear) polarizations. In such embodiments, the first, second, and third beam combiner devices can include polarization beam combiners. The polarization beam combiner (or "polarization beam splitter") in embodiments can be configured to reflect light with a first (linear) polarization (e.g., the light from the first light-generating device) and transmit light with a second (linear) polarization (e.g., the light from the second light-generating device), wherein the first and second polarizations can be, in particular, orthogonal. Therefore, in specific embodiments, the first and second light-generating devices can be configured to generate light from the light-generating devices with different polarizations, and the first, second, and third beam combiner devices can include polarization beam combiners. The advantage of this configuration is that the first light-generating device light and the second light-generating device light have the same centroid wavelength, such that even if one of the light-generating devices is "off," the centroid wavelength of the diffuse (blue) light does not change.

[0043] Alternatively (or additionally), the light from the first light-generating device and the light from the second light-generating device may have different centroid wavelengths λc1 and λc2, respectively (see above). In this embodiment, the first, second, and third combiner devices may be configured to reflect or transmit one of the first light-generating device light and the second light-generating device light according to the difference in centroid wavelengths. That is, in this embodiment, the first, second, and third combiner devices may include a dichroic combiner. In this embodiment, the dichroic combiner may be an optical element configured to transmit light in a first wavelength range and reflect light in a second wavelength range. Specifically, in the first wavelength range, the transmitted light (through the dichroic combiner) may be higher than the reflected light, while in the second wavelength range, the reflected light may be higher than the transmitted light. Furthermore, the dichroic combiner may have a cutoff wavelength and / or an on wavelength to separate the two wavelength ranges. The cutoff wavelength, in particular, can separate the transmission range (shorter wavelength) and the reflection range (longer wavelength). Specifically, the dichroic beam combiner can be configured to: (a) transmit or reflect (at least a portion) light from a first light-generating device; and (b) reflect or transmit at least a portion of light from a second light-generating device. Therefore, the first and second light-generating devices can be selected such that the first centroid wavelength (λc1) of the light from the first light-generating device and the second centroid wavelength (λc2) of the light from the second light-generating device are spectrally located at two opposite sides of the cutoff / on wavelength of the dichroic beam combiner constituted by the beam combiner device. Therefore, the first centroid wavelength (λc1) and the second centroid wavelength (λc2) can be selected such that the dichroic beam combiner can substantially separate them spectrally and substantially transmit one while substantially reflecting the other. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the first light-generating device light can have a first centroid wavelength λc1, and the second light-generating device light can have a second centroid wavelength λc2, where |λc1-λc2|≥10nm, and wherein the first, second, and third beam combiner devices can include dichroic beam combiners. This configuration offers the advantage that the first and second light-generating devices (after diffusion at the diffuser device) can provide diffuse (blue) light with different centroid wavelengths λc1 and λc2. Therefore, this configuration allows for easy adjustment of the centroid wavelength of the (total) diffused light, further controlling the color point and / or correlated color temperature (CCT) of the system light, using a control system. This is particularly true when |λc1-λc2| ≤ 65 nm, for example, when |λc1-λc2| ≤ 50 nm, etc.

[0044] In an embodiment, a first portion (and / or a first portion of the light from the first light generating device) can be incident on a first light-emitting material (in an embodiment, after being combined at the first beam combiner device). Therefore, the first light-emitting material can be disposed downstream of the first beam combiner device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the first light-emitting material can be configured to convert at least a portion (the first portion) of the first light generating device light it receives into first light-emitting material light. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the first light-emitting material can be configured to convert at least a portion (the first portion) of the second light generating device light it receives into first light-emitting material light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first light-emitting material light can include a first portion of the first light-emitting material light generated solely by the first light generating device light, and a second portion of the first light-emitting material light generated solely by the second light generating device light. In an embodiment, the first light-emitting material can be configured to convert ≥80%, such as ≥90%, particularly ≥95%, including (substantially) 100% of the light from the first, second, and additional light generating devices received by the first light-emitting material into first light-emitting material light.

[0045] However, whether the first light-emitting material receives light from the first light-generating device and / or the second light-generating device may depend on the control system (i.e., the control of the radiative flux of the light from the first light-generating device and the light from the second light-generating device) (and optionally on the selection of optics).

[0046] In an embodiment, the light emitted by the first luminescent material may have a first luminescent centroid wavelength λc selected from the range of 620-780 nm. L1 The light emitted by the first luminescent material may, for example, be selected from the 620-750 nm range, particularly from the 620-700 nm range. Therefore, in embodiments, the light emitted by the first luminescent material may include, for example, red light.

[0047] Furthermore, in an embodiment, a second portion (and / or a second portion of the light from the first light-generating device) can (in an embodiment, after being combined at the second beam combiner device) be incident on the second light-emitting material. Therefore, the second light-emitting material can be disposed downstream of the second beam combiner device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the second light-emitting material can be configured to convert at least a portion (of the second portion) of the first light-generating device light received by the second light-emitting material into second light-emitting material light. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the second light-emitting material can be configured to convert at least a portion (of the second portion) of the second light-generating device light received by the second light-emitting material into second light-emitting material light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the second light-emitting material light can include (only) a first portion of the second light-emitting material light generated by the first light-generating device light, and (only) a second portion of the second light-emitting material light generated by the second light-generating device light. In an embodiment, the second light-emitting material can be configured to convert ≥80%, such as ≥90%, particularly ≥95%, including (substantially) 100% of the (first, second, and additional) light from the light-generating device received by the second light-emitting material into second light-emitting material light. In an embodiment, the light emitted by the second luminescent material may have a second luminescent centroid wavelength λc selected from the range of 490-590 nm. L2 The light emitted by the second luminescent material may include, for example, light selected from the 500-580 nm range, particularly from the 510-570 nm range. Therefore, in embodiments, the light emitted by the second luminescent material may include, for example, one or more of yellow light and / or green light.

[0048] Similarly, whether the second light-emitting material receives light from the first light-generating device and / or the second light-generating device may depend on the control system (i.e., the control of the radiative flux of the light from the first light-generating device and the light from the second light-generating device) (and optionally on the selection of optics).

[0049] The term "luminescent material" specifically refers to a material capable of converting a first type of radiation (particularly UV radiation and / or one or more types of blue radiation) into a second type of radiation. Typically, the first and second radiations have different spectral power distributions, with the second radiation generally having a longer wavelength than the first radiation (i.e., "down-conversion"). In embodiments, "luminescent material" specifically refers to a material capable of converting radiation into, for example, visible light and / or infrared light. For example, in embodiments, the luminescent material is capable of converting one or more types of UV radiation and / or blue radiation into visible light. Therefore, when excited by radiation, the luminescent material can emit radiation. Typically, the luminescent material will be a down-converter, i.e., converting shorter wavelength radiation into longer wavelength radiation (λ). ex <λ em However, in certain embodiments, the luminescent material can be an up-converter luminescent material, that is, longer wavelength radiation is converted into shorter wavelength radiation (λ). ex>λ em In embodiments, the term "luminescence" also refers to phosphorescence. In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may also refer to fluorescence. Besides the term "luminescence," the terms "luminescent material light" or "emission" may also be used. Therefore, the terms "first radiation" and "second radiation" refer to excitation radiation and emission (radiation), respectively. Similarly, in embodiments, the term "luminescent material" may refer to phosphorescence and / or fluorescence. The term "luminescent material" may also refer to a variety of different luminescent materials. Examples of possible luminescent materials are listed below. Therefore, in specific embodiments, the term "luminescent material" may also refer to a luminescent material composition. Besides the term "luminescent material," the term "phosphorescent" may also be used. These terms are known to those skilled in the art.

[0050] In embodiments, the luminescent material may be selected from garnet and nitride, particularly garnet and nitride doped with trivalent cerium or divalent europium, respectively. The term "nitride" may also refer to oxynitride or nitrogen silicate, etc. Alternatively or additionally, the luminescent material may be selected from silicates, particularly silicates doped with divalent europium. In embodiments, the luminescent material may include an oxynitride luminescent material having divalent europium. Furthermore, in embodiments, the luminescent material may include a nitride luminescent material having divalent europium.

[0051] In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material may include at least: A type of luminescent material, wherein A comprises one or more of Y, La, Gd, Tb, and Lu, and wherein B comprises one or more of Al, Ga, In, and Sc; and wherein the solid-state light source light may comprise blue solid-state light. Specifically, A may comprise one or more of Y, Gd, and Lu, for example, particularly one or more of Y and Lu. Specifically, B may comprise one or more of Al and Ga, more specifically, at least Al, such as almost entirely Al. Therefore, cerium-containing garnet materials are particularly suitable luminescent materials. Examples of garnet particularly include A3B5O. 12 Garnet, wherein A comprises at least yttrium (Y) or lutetium (Lu), and wherein B comprises at least aluminum (Al). Such garnets may be doped with cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), or a combination of cerium and praseodymium; however, cerium (Ce) doping is particularly preferred. In specific embodiments, the garnet luminescent material comprises… , where x is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1. The term ":Ce" indicates that a portion of the metal ions in the luminescent material (i.e., in garnet: a portion of the "A" ions) are replaced by cerium 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 cerium. This is known to those skilled in the art. Generally, the proportion of Ce replacing A does not exceed 10%; generally, the concentration of cerium is in the range of 0.1% to 4%, especially 0.1% to 2% (relative to A). Assuming 1% of Ce and 10% of Y, the complete correct chemical formula can be . It is known to those skilled in the art that Ce in garnet mainly or only exists in the trivalent state. In the embodiments, such luminescent materials can have a suitable spectral distribution (but see below), have relatively high efficiency, relatively high thermal stability, and allow a high color rendering index (optionally in combination with the light of other light sources herein).

[0052] In a specific embodiment, the luminescent material can only include luminescent materials selected from the cerium-containing garnet type. In a more specific embodiment, the luminescent material can include a single type of luminescent material, such as . Thus, in a specific embodiment, the first luminescent material can include a luminescent material, wherein at least 85% by weight, more specifically at least about 90 wt.%, for example more specifically at least about 95% by weight of the luminescent material includes . Here, A' includes one or more elements selected from the group consisting of lanthanide elements, 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. Specifically, x3 is selected from the range of 0.001 - 0.1. Note that in the embodiments, x2 = 0. Alternatively or additionally, in the embodiments, y2 = 0.

[0053] In the embodiments, the luminescent material can include type luminescent materials, where A includes one or more of Y, La, Gd, Tb, and Lu, such as one or more of La and Y in the embodiments. In the embodiments, the luminescent material can also alternatively or additionally include and / or and / or and / or etc. one or more of them, where M includes one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca, especially at least including Sr in the embodiments. Thus, in the embodiments, the luminescent material can include those selected from and One or more materials in the group consisting of these compounds. In these compounds, europium (Eu) exists primarily or only in a divalent form and substitutes for one or more specified divalent cations, as is known to those skilled in the art. Typically, the content of Eu does not exceed 10% of the total cations; its content relative to the cations it substitutes is typically in the range of about 0.5% to 10%, and more specifically, its content is typically in the range of about 0.5% to 5%. The term ":Eu" indicates that a portion of the metal ion (denoted by M) is replaced by Eu (Eu in these examples). 2+ Replace. For example, suppose... The content of Eu in the solution is 2%, and the correct chemical formula may be... Divalent europium often substitutes for divalent cations, such as the aforementioned divalent alkaline earth cations, especially Ca, Sr, or Ba.

[0054] The term "luminescent material" in this document refers specifically to inorganic luminescent materials. Alternatively or additionally, other luminescent materials may also be used. For example, quantum dots and / or organic dyes may be used and selectively embedded in a transmission matrix, such as polymers (e.g., PMMA or polysiloxanes).

[0055] In this embodiment, the luminescent material may include a material doped with tetravalent manganese. This type of luminescent material, wherein M' comprises an alkaline earth cation, M comprises a basic cation, x can be selected in the range of 0-1, wherein A comprises a tetravalent cation, such as one or more of silicon and / or titanium, and wherein X comprises a monovalent anion, at least fluorine. Such luminescent materials may also be referred to herein as "KSiF" or "KSF", regardless of whether M comprises K or one or more other basic cations. Doped with tetravalent manganese... The luminescent material is described in WO2013121355A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Paragraphs from WO2013121355A1 are also reproduced herein. The relevant alkaline earth cations (M') are magnesium (Mg), strontium (Sr), calcium (Ca), and barium (Ba), especially one or more of Sr and Ba. The relevant basic cations (M) are sodium (Na), potassium (K), and rubidium (Rb). Alternatively, ammonium (NH4) may also be used. + M comprises, and / or lithium (Li) and / or cesium (Cs). In a preferred embodiment, M comprises at least potassium. In another embodiment, M comprises at least rubidium. In yet another preferred embodiment, M comprises at least potassium and rubidium. Optionally, The luminescent material has a hexagonal phase. In another embodiment, The luminescent material has a cubic phase. In one embodiment, a combination of different basic cations can be used. In another embodiment, a combination of different alkaline earth cations can be used. In yet another embodiment, a combination of one or more basic cations and one or more alkaline earth cations can be applied. For example, a combination of... , where x can be selected from the range of 0-1, especially x≤1. In a specific embodiment, x=0.

[0056] The term "tetravalent manganese" refers to Mn 4+ This is a well-known luminescent ion. As shown above, some tetravalent cations A (such as Si) are replaced by manganese. Therefore, doped with tetravalent manganese It can be represented as The molar percentage of manganese, i.e., the percentage by which it replaces the tetravalent cation A, is typically in the range of 0.1% to 15%, especially in the range of 1% to 12%, i.e., m is in the range of 0.001 to 0.15, especially in the range of 0.01 to 0.12. Because manganese partially replaces the host lattice ions and has specific functions, it is also referred to as a "dopant" or "activator." Therefore, hexafluorosilicates use manganese (Mn) 4+ Doping or activation.

[0057] In embodiments, A may include a tetravalent cation and preferably includes at least silicon. A may optionally (also) include one or more of titanium (Ti), germanium (Ge), tin (Sn), and zinc (Zn). Preferably, A is composed of at least 80%, more preferably at least 90% (e.g., at least 95%) silicon.

[0058] As described above, X relates to a monovalent anion, but includes at least fluorine. Other optional monovalent anions may be selected from the group consisting of chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), and iodine (I). Preferably, X consists of at least 80%, more preferably at least 90% (e.g., 95%) fluorine. Specifically, X is essentially composed of F (fluorine).

[0059] In one embodiment, include (Also referred to herein as the KSiF system). In another preferred embodiment, include (Also referred to herein as the K,Rb system). In a specific embodiment, the indication is... Can refer to and One or more of them, such as and One or more of them, especially referring to As described above, "(Si,Ti)" can represent one or more of Si and Ti. Therefore, in specific embodiments, the luminescent material may include... and One or more of these. Luminescent materials can also be coated, as in WO2013121355A1.

[0060] In an embodiment, a third portion of the light from the first light generating device (and / or a third portion of the light from the second light generating device) can (in an embodiment, after being combined at the third beam combiner device) be incident on the diffuser device. Therefore, the diffuser device can be configured downstream of the third beam combiner device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the diffuser device can be configured to diffuse at least a portion of the third portion of the first light generating device light received by the diffuser device into diffuse light. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the diffuser device can be configured to convert at least a portion of the third portion of the second light generating device light received by the diffuser device into diffuse light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the diffuse light can include a first portion of diffuse light generated (only) by the first light generating device light, and a second portion of diffuse light generated (only) by the second light generating device light.

[0061] Similarly, whether the diffuser device receives light from the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device may depend on the control system (i.e., the control of the radiative flux of the light from the first light generating device and the light from the second light generating device) (and optionally on the selection of optics).

[0062] In an embodiment, the diffuser device can operate in a transmission mode. That is, in an embodiment (in the operating mode of the light generation system), the diffuser device can be configured to (diffuse and) transmit at least a (one-third portion) of the first light generation device light (and / or the second light generation device light) received by the diffuser element, such that the (transmitted) diffused light can propagate to the main beam combiner device (in the same direction as the incident beam of the light generation device light).

[0063] Therefore, in this document, when it is stated that an element operates in transmission mode, in an embodiment, this may mean that at one or more wavelengths, the transmitted radiation portion is greater than the reflected or absorbed radiation portion. Thus, in an embodiment, when it is stated that an element operates in transmission mode, this may mean that, in an embodiment, at one or more wavelengths, more than 50% of the radiation can be transmitted (rather than reflected or absorbed), for example, at least 60%. Here, this percentage refers to the percentage of radiant flux incident on the element (operating in transmission mode). When the luminescent material is configured in transmission mode, it can particularly refer to a luminescent material with a non-zero thickness, wherein on one side of the luminescent material, the luminescent material can be irradiated with (excitation) light, while on the other side, the light (emission) can propagate from the luminescent material. One side and the other side can be configured as a distance defined by the non-zero thickness.

[0064] Therefore, in this document, when it is stated that an element operates in reflective mode, in embodiments, this may mean that at one or more wavelengths, the reflected radiation portion is greater than the transmitted or absorbed radiation portion. Thus, in embodiments, when it is stated that an element operates in reflective mode, this may mean that at one or more wavelengths, more than 50% of the radiation is reflected (rather than reflected or absorbed), for example, at least 60%. Here, this percentage refers to the percentage of radiant flux incident on the element (operating in reflective mode). When the luminescent material is configured in reflective mode, it can particularly mean that the luminescent material is irradiated with (excitation) light on one side, and that on the same side of the luminescent material, light (emission) can propagate from that luminescent material.

[0065] By definition, a reflector can operate in reflective mode. A light-emitting material can operate in either reflective or transmissive mode. An optical filter can operate in either reflective or transmissive mode, but this may depend on the type of optical filter. For example, in an embodiment, a grating can be applied in either reflective or transmissive mode.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the first luminescent material may operate in a transmission mode. Therefore, light from the (first and / or second) light-generating device may illuminate one side of the first luminescent material, wherein light from the first luminescent material may be emitted from an opposite side of the first luminescent material, which is opposite to the side on which light from the (first and / or second) light-generating device (during operation of the light-generating system) is incident.

[0067] Additionally or alternatively, the second luminescent material can operate in a transmission mode. Therefore, light from the (first and / or second) light-generating device can illuminate one side of the second luminescent material, wherein light from the second luminescent material can be emitted from the side of the second luminescent material opposite to the side to which the light from the (first and / or second) light-generating device (during operation of the light-generating system) is incident.

[0068] Therefore, in specific embodiments, one or more of the following can be employed: (a) the first luminescent material operates in transmission mode; (b) the second luminescent material operates in transmission mode; and (c) the diffuser device operates in transmission mode. Furthermore, in embodiments, all of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device can operate in transmission mode. The advantage of operating the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device in transmission mode is that it eliminates the need to coat the back of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device with a reflective coating, thereby avoiding partial absorption of incident light by the reflective coating and consequently reducing the efficiency and / or luminous flux of the light generation system. However, in (other) embodiments, one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device can operate in reflection mode (see below).

[0069] In an embodiment, the light from the first luminescent material, the light from the second luminescent material, and the diffused light can (propagate) and be incident on the main beam combiner. Therefore, the main beam combiner device can be configured downstream of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, and with reference to the embodiments herein, in an embodiment, one or more optical elements can be configured between the first luminescent material and the main beam combiner device, and / or in an embodiment, one or more optical elements can be configured between the second luminescent material and the main beam combiner, and / or in an embodiment, one or more optical elements can be configured between the diffuser device and the main beam combiner.

[0070] Furthermore, the main beam combiner device may be configured to combine two or more of the following: (i) (at least a portion) of the first luminescent material light received through the first luminescent material, (ii) (at least a portion) of the second luminescent material light received through the second luminescent material, and (iii) (at least a portion) of the diffused light received through the diffuser device. Specifically, the main beam combiner device may be configured to combine the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and the diffused light into the same optical path. In an embodiment, the main beam combiner device may be configured to provide a light beam (including one or more of the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and the diffused light). In an embodiment, the main beam combiner device may be configured to emit (and / or transmit) the combined light beam toward the light output port of the light generating system, or the beam combiner device may include (or provide) the light output port.

[0071] In an embodiment, the second portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the second portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the second portion of the diffused light can be combined in the main combiner device to form a second (partial) system light. Since the light from the second light generating device does not necessarily point to two or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, one or more of the second portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the second portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the second portion of the diffused light can be received by the main combiner device to form the second (partial) system light.

[0072] Furthermore, in embodiments, the light generation system may be configured to generate system light. In embodiments, the system light may include a combined beam (provided by the main beam combiner device). That is, in embodiments, the system light may include one or more of a first luminescent material light, a second luminescent material light, and diffuse light. In specific embodiments, the system light may include a first portion of the first luminescent material light, a first portion of the second luminescent material light, and a first portion of the diffuse light (all from the light of the first light generation device). In these embodiments, the system light may include a first (partial) system light originating solely from the light of the first light generation device. Additionally or alternatively, the system light may include a second portion of the first luminescent material light, a second portion of the second luminescent material light, and a second portion of the diffuse light (all from the light of the second light generation device). In these embodiments, the system light may include a second (partial) system light originating solely from the light of the second light generation device. Therefore, in embodiments, the system light may include one or more of a first (partial) system light generated solely from the light of the first light generation device and a second (partial) system light generated solely from the light of the second light generation device. Whether the system light includes one or more of (i) a first (partial) system light generated solely by the light from the first light generating device and (ii) a second (partial) system light generated solely by the light from the second light generating device, is controllable by the control system.

[0073] In embodiments, at least one of the first (partial) system light and the second (partial) system light may be white light. The term "white light" and similar terms used herein are known to those skilled in the art. It particularly relates to light with a correlated color temperature (CCT) between about 1000K and 25000K, for example, 1500K to 20000K, especially 1800K to 18000K, and for general illumination, especially in the range of 2000K to 7000K, for example, 2700K to 6500K. In embodiments, for example, for backlighting or other applications, the correlated color temperature (CCT) may particularly be in the range of about 7000K to 20000K. Furthermore, in embodiments, the correlated color temperature (CCT) is particularly within about 15 SDCM (standard deviation of color matching) from the BBL (blackbody track), particularly within about 10 SDCM from the BBL, and even more particularly within about 5 SDCM from the BBL.

[0074] Specifically, in embodiments, at least a first (partial) system light can be white light. That is, the first (partial) system light can include a red component (derived from a first portion of the light from a first luminescent material), a yellow-green component (derived from a first portion of the light from a second luminescent material), and a blue component (derived from a first portion of the diffused light), which can be combined in the main combiner device to form white first system light. Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, the second (partial) system light can also be white light. However, in (other) embodiments, the first (partial) system light can be white light, while the second (partial) system light can be colored light (see below).

[0075] Therefore, as described above, in some embodiments, the spectral power distribution of the first (partial) system light may differ from that of the second (partial) system light. Specifically, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light-generating device may differ from that of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light-generating device. For example, in an embodiment, the ratio of the first portion of the light from the first light-generating device may be higher, resulting in a relatively larger component of (red) first luminescent material light in the first (partial) system light; while the ratio of the third portion of the light from the second light-generating device may be higher, resulting in a relatively larger component of (blue) diffuse light in the second (partial) system light. Therefore, the intensity of the spectral power distribution of the first (partial) system light at longer wavelengths (e.g., ≥620 nm) may be (relatively) higher than that of the second (partial) system light. (Furthermore,) in an embodiment, the first (partial) system light and the second (partial) system light may be white light, wherein the correlated color temperature (CCT) of the first (partial) system light may differ from (e.g., be lower) the CCT of the second (partial) system light.

[0076] As described above, the system light in the embodiments may include one or more of a first (partial) system light and a second (partial) system light. In the embodiments, the system light may include visible light.

[0077] The terms “visible,” “visible light,” or “visible emission,” and similar terms used herein, refer to light having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 380-780 nm. Furthermore, in embodiments, the system light may be white light. Alternatively, in embodiments, the system light may be colored light (see below).

[0078] However, particularly in the embodiments, the system light in the operating mode of the light generating system can be (white) light with a CCT selected from the range of 1000-25000K (i.e., 25000K), for example at least about 1500K, for example selected from the range of 1500-20000K, and particularly preferably selected from the range of 1800-18000K, for example up to about 10000K. In the embodiments, the color rendering index of the system light can also be selected from the range of ≥60, for example at least about 65, for example selected from the range of ≥70, and particularly selected from the range of ≥80, for example selected from the range of ≥90.

[0079] Furthermore, in embodiments, the light generating system may include a control system configured to control a first light generating device and a second light generating device (and optional other light generating devices, see below), for example, particularly controlling the (first) intensity (i.e., especially the radiant flux) of the light from the first light generating device and the (second) intensity (i.e., especially the radiant flux) of the light from the second light generating device (thereby controlling the intensity of the first system light and the second system light in the system light).

[0080] As described above, the CCT and / or spectral power distribution of the first system light may differ from that of the second system light. Therefore, by controlling the first and second light generating devices, the control system can be configured to control (e.g., change) the CCT and / or spectral power distribution of the system light. In embodiments, the system light can therefore have a variable CCT (wherein the CCT can be adjusted by the control system during operation of the light generating system). Specifically, the CCT of the system light can vary in the range of at least 400K, for example at least 500K, for example at least about 1000K, or even at least about 1500K, for example at least about 2000K. This means that the CCT of the system light can vary between x K and (x+y K), where x can in particular be at least about 1500K, (x+y K) can in particular be at most about 25000K, for example at most about 20000K, for example at most about 10000K, and y can be selected from the range of at least about 400K, for example at least about 1000K, or even at least about 1500K, for example at least about 2000K. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the color temperature of the system light can be selected from the range of 1500K to 20000K, and has a variable correlated color temperature of at least 2000K. Selecting a CCT from the range of 1500-20000K (e.g., from the range of 1500-10000K) offers the advantage that the light generating system can provide system light with a relatively low blue light component (e.g., suitable for darkrooms) and system light with a relatively high blue light component (e.g., suitable for disinfection purposes). Furthermore, a variable CCT of at least 2000K allows the user to alter the appearance of the system light to simulate, for example, candlelight or natural sunlight, thereby providing ambient lighting.

[0081] In an embodiment, the light generation system may further include a third light generation device. This third light generation device may be configured to generate third light generation device light. Furthermore, the third light generation device may include one or more third solid-state light sources. In an embodiment, the one or more third solid-state light sources may be particularly selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes.

[0082] The light from the third light-generating device can be provided to one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and / or the diffuser device. Therefore, in one embodiment, the light from the third light-generating device can be provided in three parts, with a fixed ratio of radiant flux among these three parts, similar to the light from the first light-generating device. However, in other embodiments, the light from the third light-generating device can be divided into three parts, with a controllable ratio of luminous flux among these three parts (see the explanation of similar embodiments above). However, in still other embodiments, the light from the third light-generating device can be provided to only one of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device. The third light-generating device can be used to further control the system light. Optical devices can be used to guide the light from the third light-generating device to one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, and optical devices (therefore) can be used to guide one or more of the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and the diffuser light generated by the light from the third light-generating device to the main beam combiner device.

[0083] In embodiments, the optical device may include a fourth, a fifth, and a sixth beam combiner device. In embodiments, the third light generating device and the optical device may be configured to provide a first portion of the light from the third light generating device to a first light-emitting material via the fourth beam combiner device. Additionally or alternatively, the third light generating device and the optical device may be configured to provide a second portion of the light from the third light generating device to a second light-emitting material via the fifth beam combiner device. Furthermore, in embodiments, the third light generating device and the optical device may be configured to provide a third portion of the light from the third light generating device to a diffuser device via the sixth beam combiner device.

[0084] In an embodiment, the first luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion of a first portion of the light received by the first luminescent material from the third light generating device into (a third portion) of the first luminescent material light. Alternatively or additionally, the second luminescent material may be configured to convert at least a portion of a second portion of the light received by the second luminescent material from the third light generating device into (a third portion) of the second luminescent material light. Alternatively or additionally, in an embodiment, the diffuser device may be configured to diffuse at least a portion of the third portion of the light received by the diffuser device from the third light generating device into diffused light (a third portion).

[0085] In an embodiment, the third portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the third portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the third portion of the diffused light can be combined in the main combiner device to form a third (partial) system light. Since the light from the third light generating device does not necessarily point to two or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, one or more of the third portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the third portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the third portion of the diffused light can be received by the main combiner device as the third (partial) system light.

[0086] Therefore, in the embodiments, (a) the optical device may include one or more of a fourth beam combiner device, a fifth beam combiner device, and a sixth beam combiner device; (b) the third light generating device and the optical device may be configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the light from the third light generating device to a first light-emitting material via the fourth beam combiner device, (ii) providing a second portion of the light from the third light generating device to a second light-emitting material via the fifth beam combiner device, and (iii) providing a third portion of the light from the third light generating device to a diffuser device via the sixth beam combiner device.

[0087] Furthermore, in embodiments, the control system may (also) be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light generating device, the second light generating device, and the third light generating device. Therefore, in specific embodiments, the light generating system may further include a third light generating device; wherein: (A) the third light generating device may be configured to generate a third light generating device; wherein the third light generating device may include one or more third solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more third solid-state light sources may be selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (B) the optical devices may include a fourth beam combiner device, a fifth beam combiner device, and a sixth beam combiner device; (C) the third light generating device and the optical devices may be configured to: (i) provide a first portion of the light from the third light generating device to a first luminescent material via the fourth beam combiner device; (ii) provide a second portion of the light from the third light generating device to a second luminescent material via the fifth beam combiner device; and ( iii) The third portion of the light from the third light generating device is provided to the diffuser device via the sixth beam combiner device; (D) The first luminescent material is configured to convert at least a portion of the first portion of the light from the third light generating device received by the first luminescent material into first luminescent material light; (E) The second luminescent material is configured to convert at least a portion of the second portion of the light from the third light generating device received by the second luminescent material into second luminescent material light; (F) The diffuser device is configured to diffuse at least a portion of the third portion of the light from the third light generating device received by the diffuser device into diffuse light; and (G) The control system can control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light generating device, the second light generating device, and the third light generating device. The light generation system including the third light generating device can provide more control over the CCT and / or spectral power distribution of the system light. Furthermore, the light generation system including the third light generating device can provide system light with higher intensity.

[0088] In an embodiment, the third light generating device may be configured to generate third light generating device light. In an embodiment, the third light generating device light may have a third centroid wavelength λc3, which is selected from the range of 200-490 nm, for example, from the range of 400-490 nm, and particularly from the range of 440-490 nm. In an embodiment, the third centroid wavelength λc3 may be different from the first centroid wavelength λc1. Specifically, in an embodiment, |λc1-λc3| ≥ 5 nm, for example, |λc1-λc3| ≥ 10 nm, and particularly |λc1-λc3| ≥ 15 nm. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, |λc1-λc3| ≤ 50 nm, for example, |λc1-λc3| ≤ 40 nm, and particularly |λc1-λc3| ≤ 30 nm. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first light generating device and the third light generating device may be configured to generate light generating device light with different spectral power distributions. Furthermore, in embodiments, the third centroid wavelength λc3 may be different from the second centroid wavelength λc2, for example, 5 ≤ |λc2-λc3| ≤ 50 nm, for example, 10 ≤ |λc2-λc3| ≤ 40 nm, and particularly 15 ≤ |λc2-λc3| ≤ 30 nm. However, in embodiments, the third centroid wavelength λc3 may be the same as the second centroid wavelength λc2, i.e., λc2 = λc3. Furthermore, in embodiments, the third light-generating device light may be (linearly) polarized light, for example, its polarization selected from the group consisting of s-polarization and p-polarization. In embodiments, the polarization of the third light-generating device light may be different from the polarization of the first light-generating device light and / or the second light-generating device light. However, in (other) embodiments, the third light-generating device light may have the same polarization as the first light-generating device light (but different polarization from the second light-generating device light). However, in (other) embodiments, the third light-generating device light may have the same polarization as the second light-generating device light (but different polarization from the first light-generating device light).

[0089] Therefore, in embodiments, the optical system may include a fourth beam combiner device. In embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the third light generating device. Additionally, in embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured upstream of the first beam combiner device. In embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured in particular to reflect (or transmit) a first portion of the light from the third light generating device and to transmit (or reflect) a first propagation portion of the light from the third light generating device received by the fourth beam combiner device. In embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to reflect and / or transmit a portion of the light from the third light generating device based on (centroid) wavelength and / or polarization. That is, in embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may include a polarization beam combiner and / or a dichroic beam combiner, for example, especially a dichroic beam combiner. Furthermore, in embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to: (i) reflect ≥10%, for example, ≥20%, especially ≥30%, of the light from the third light generating device; (ii) transmit ≤90%, for example, ≤80%, especially ≤70%, of the light from the third light generating device received by the fourth beam combiner device. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to: (i) reflect ≤75%, for example ≤70%, especially ≤60%, of the light from the third light generating device; and (ii) transmit ≥25%, for example ≥30%, especially ≥40%, of the light from the third light generating device received by the fourth beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to reflect (or transmit) a (first portion) of the light from the third light generating device toward the first beam combiner device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the first beam splitter. In an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device may (therefore) be configured in the optical path between the first beam splitter and the first beam combiner device. Therefore, in an embodiment, the light from the first light generating device, for example, especially a first portion of the light from the first light generating device, may be incident on the fourth beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the first portion of the light from the first light generating device may be configured to be incident on the fourth beam combiner device in a direction perpendicular to the light from the third light generating device. Furthermore, in embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to transmit (at least a portion) of the first light generating device light it receives. Specifically, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to transmit ≥80%, for example ≥90%, particularly ≥95%, for example ≥99%, including (substantially) 100% of the first light generating device light it receives. In embodiments, the fourth beam combiner device may be configured to transmit (at least a portion) of the first light generating device light it receives based on the centroid wavelength and / or polarization of the first light generating device light. Thus, in embodiments, the (first portion) of the first light generating device light may have the same polarization as the first propagation portion of the third light generating device light. Alternatively or (additionally), the (first portion) of the first light generating device light and the first propagation portion of the third light generating device light may (both) have a centroid wavelength lower than (or higher than) the cutoff wavelength of the dichroic beam combiner included by the fourth beam combiner device.Therefore, both the first propagation portion of the light from the third light generating device and the (first portion) of the light from the first light generating device can be transmitted (or reflected) by the fourth beam combiner device, while the (first) portion of the light from the third light generating device can be reflected. In an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device can therefore be configured to: (i) reflect (or transmit) the (first portion) of the light from the third light generating device received by the fourth beam combiner device; and (ii) transmit (or reflect) the (first portion) of the light from the first light generating device received by the fourth beam combiner device, particularly along the direction of the first beam combiner device. Therefore, in an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device can be configured to combine the (first portion) of the light from the third light generating device with the (first portion) of the light from the first light generating device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the fourth beam combiner (and the fifth beam combiner) can be configured to split the light from the third light generating device into two portions. Therefore, the fourth beam combiner (and the fifth beam combiner) can be configured as a beam splitter for the light from the third light generating device, and as a beam combiner for the light from the first light generating device and the (reflected portions) of the light from the third light generating device.

[0090] In an embodiment, a first propagation portion of the light from the third light generating device may be incident on the fifth beam combiner device. The fifth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the fourth beam combiner device in an embodiment. Additionally, in an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured upstream of the second beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured to reflect (or transmit) a second portion of the light from the third light generating device and transmit (or reflect) a second propagation portion of the light from the third light generating device received by the fifth beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may include a polarization beam combiner and / or a dichroic beam combiner, for example, especially a dichroic beam combiner. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured to: (i) reflect ≥50%, for example, ≥60%, especially ≥70%, of the light from the third light generating device received by the fifth beam combiner device; (ii) transmit ≤50%, for example, ≤40%, especially ≤30%, of the light from the third light generating device received by the fifth beam combiner device. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured to: (i) reflect ≤95%, for example ≤90%, particularly ≤85%, of the third light generating device light received by the fifth beam combiner device; and (ii) transmit ≥5%, for example ≥10%, particularly ≥15%, of the third light generating device light received by the fifth beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured to reflect (or transmit) the (second portion) of the third light generating device light toward the second beam combiner device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the second beam splitter. In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may (therefore) be configured in the optical path between the second beam splitter and the second beam combiner device. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first light generating device light (e.g., particularly the second portion of the first light generating device light) may be incident on the fifth beam combiner device, particularly in a direction perpendicular to the third light generating device light. In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured to transmit ≥80%, for example, ≥90%, particularly ≥95%, for example ≥99%, including (substantially) 100% of the first light generating device light it receives. In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be configured to transmit (at least a portion) of the first light generating device light received by the fifth beam combiner device based on the centroid wavelength and / or polarization of the first light generating device light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the second portion of the first light generating device light may have a different (particularly perpendicular) polarization than the second portion of the reflected third light generating device light. Alternatively (or additionally), the centroid wavelengths of the second portion of the first light generating device light and the second portion of the reflected third light generating device light may be configured on opposite sides of the cutoff wavelength (or onset wavelength) of the dichroic beam combiner constituted by the fifth beam combiner device. Therefore, the second portion of the first light generating device light can be transmitted (or reflected) by the fifth beam combiner device, while the second portion of the third light generating device light can be reflected (or transmitted).In an embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device can therefore be configured to combine the second portion of the third light generating device with the second portion of the light from the first light generating device (and provide the combined light to the second beam combiner device).

[0091] In an embodiment, a second propagation portion of the light from the third light generating device can be incident on the sixth beam combiner device. The sixth beam combiner device can be configured downstream of the fourth and fifth beam combiner devices in an embodiment. Additionally, in an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can be configured upstream of the third beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can be configured to reflect (or transmit) a third portion of the light from the third light generating device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can particularly include a polarization beam combiner and / or a dichroic beam combiner, for example, a dichroic beam combiner. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can be configured to reflect (or transmit) ≥80%, for example, ≥90%, particularly ≥95%, for example, ≥99%, including (substantially) 100% of the received light from the third light generating device. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can particularly be configured to reflect (or transmit) the (third portion) of the light from the third light generating device toward the third beam combiner device. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can be configured downstream of the third reflector. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can (therefore) be configured in the optical path between the third reflector and the third beam combiner. Therefore, in an embodiment, the light from the first light generating device, for example, especially the third portion of the first light generating device light, can be incident on the sixth beam combiner device, particularly in a direction perpendicular to the third light generating device light. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can be configured to transmit (or reflect) ≥80%, for example, ≥90%, especially ≥95%, for example, ≥99%, including (substantially) 100% of the first light generating device light it receives. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device can be configured to transmit (or reflect) at least a portion of the first light generating device light it receives based on the centroid wavelength and / or polarization (e.g., especially the centroid wavelength) of the first light generating device light. Therefore, in an embodiment, the centroid wavelengths of the first light generating device light (the third portion) and the reflected third light generating device light (the third portion) can be configured on opposite sides of the cutoff wavelength (or onset wavelength) of the dichroic beam combiner included by the sixth beam combiner device. In an embodiment, the sixth beam combiner device may be configured to combine the third portion of the light from the third light generating device with the third portion of the light from the first light generating device (and provide the combined light to the third beam combiner device). Therefore, in a specific embodiment, (i) the first and third light generating devices may be configured to generate light from the light generating devices with different spectral power distributions but including the same polarization; (ii) the fourth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the first beam splitter and upstream of the first beam combiner device; the fifth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the second beam splitter and upstream of the second beam combiner device; and the sixth beam combiner device may be configured downstream of the third reflector and upstream of the third beam combiner device; (iii) the fourth, fifth, and sixth beam combiner devices may include dichroic beam combiners.The first and third light generating devices configured to generate light with different spectral power distributions offer the following advantages: the light from the first light generating device can be (substantially) not reflected by the fourth, fifth, and sixth beam combiner devices, which include dichroic beam combiners, thereby facilitating the combination of the transmitted beam of the light from the first light generating device with the reflected beam of the light from the third light generating device.

[0092] In one embodiment, the light from the third light-generating device can therefore be divided into a first portion (provided to the first luminescent material), a second portion (provided to the second luminescent material), and a third portion (provided to the diffuser device). However, in an alternative embodiment, the light from the third light-generating device may not be divided into the first, second, and third portions, but may be provided entirely to one of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device. In such an embodiment, the light-generating system (especially the optical components) may not necessarily include all of the fourth, fifth, and sixth beam combiner devices. Similarly, in an embodiment, the light from the second light-generating device may not be divided into the first, second, and third portions, but may be provided entirely to another of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device. In these embodiments, the light-generating system (especially the optical components) may not include all of the fourth, fifth, and sixth beam splitters. Furthermore, in these embodiments, the light-generating system may include a fourth light-generating device (which will be discussed further below).

[0093] Whether one or more of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device receive light from the third light-generating device may depend on the control system (i.e., the control of the radiant flux of the light from the first light-generating device, the second light-generating device, and the third light-generating device) (and the selection of optional optical components). As described above, in one embodiment, the optical components may be selected such that the light from the third light-generating device propagates to all three of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device; while in other embodiments, the optical components may be selected such that the light from the third light-generating device propagates to only one or both of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, particularly one.

[0094] Therefore, in the embodiments, the system light may include one or more of a first (partial) system light, a second (partial) system light, and a third (partial) system light. System light generated solely by the light from the third light generating device may also be referred to as the third system light.

[0095] The control system can be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device, and the third light generating device, for example, to specifically control the (first) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the first light generating device, the (second) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the second light generating device, and the (third) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the third light generating device (thereby controlling the intensity of the first system light, the second system light, and the third system light in the control system light).

[0096] The fourth light generating device can be configured to generate light from the fourth light generating device. Furthermore, the fourth light generating device may include one or more fourth solid-state light sources, particularly selected from a group of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes.

[0097] In an embodiment, one of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may be configured to provide their light-generating device light to a first light-emitting material via a first beam combiner device (wherein the first light-emitting material may be configured to convert the light-generating device light into first light-emitting material light). Additionally, another of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may be configured to provide their light-generating device light to a second light-emitting material via a second beam combiner device (wherein the second light-emitting material may be configured to convert the light-generating device light into second light-emitting material light). Furthermore, another of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may also be configured to provide their light-generating device light to a diffuser device via a third beam combiner device (wherein the diffuser device may be configured to convert the light-generating device light into diffused light). Therefore, the first part of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices can be configured to provide their light generating device light to the first light-emitting material (via optical devices); the second part of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices can be configured to provide their light generating device light to the second light-emitting material (via optical devices); and the third part of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices can be configured to provide their light generating device light to the diffuser device (via optical devices). In this document, the phrase "via an optical system" and similar expressions can refer to the optical path through one or more optical elements of an optical device.

[0098] However, as described above, in (other) embodiments, (a) the second light generating device may be configured to provide a first portion of the light from the second light generating device to the first luminescent material, a second portion of the light from the second light generating device to the second luminescent material, and a third portion of the light from the second light generating device to the diffuser device, in particular at a fixed ratio of each radiant flux (via optics); (b) the third light generating device may be configured to provide one or more of the following (via optics): provide a first portion of the light from the third light generating device to the first luminescent material, provide a second portion of the light from the third light generating device to the second luminescent material, and provide a third portion of the light from the third light generating device to the diffuser device, in particular when the third light generating device is configured to provide portions of the light from the third light generating device to the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device (all three) at a fixed ratio of each radiant flux (via optics); and (c) the fourth light generating device may be configured to provide a first portion of the light from the fourth light generating device to the first luminescent material, a second portion of the light from the fourth light generating device to the second luminescent material, and a fourth portion of the light from the fourth light generating device to the diffuser device (via optics).

[0099] However, in another specific embodiment, the light generating system includes both a third light generating device and a fourth light generating device, (a) the third light generating device may be configured to (via optics) provide a first portion of the light from the third light generating device to a first luminescent material, a second portion of the light from the third light generating device to a second luminescent material, and a third portion of the light from the third light generating device to a diffuser device, i.e., the light from the third light generating device (via optics) is directed only to one of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device; (b) the fourth light generating device may be configured to (via optics) provide a first portion of the light from the fourth light generating device to the first luminescent material, and a third portion of the light from the fourth light generating device to a diffuser device. The second portion of the light from the first light-generating device is provided to the second light-emitting material, and the fourth portion of the light from the fourth light-generating device is provided to the diffuser device. That is, the light from the fourth light-generating device (through the optics) is directed only to one of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device. Particularly applicable is the case where the light from the third light-generating device (through the optics) is directed only to one of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, and the light from the fourth light-generating device (through the optics) is also directed only to one of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, but the third and fourth light-generating devices are not directed to the same selected material. Furthermore, particularly applicable is the case where the light from the second light-generating device (through the optics) is directed only to one of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, but this direction differs from that directed by the third and fourth light-generating devices.

[0100] As described above, the optical device can be used to guide the light from the fourth light generating device to one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, and the optical device (therefore) can be used to guide one or more of the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and the diffuse light generated by the light from the fourth light generating device to the main beam combiner device.

[0101] Since the light from the fourth light-generating device does not necessarily point to two or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, one or more of the fourth portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the fourth portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the fourth portion of the diffused light can be received by the main combiner device as the fourth (part) system light. However, in a specific embodiment, the fourth portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the fourth portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the fourth portion of the diffused light can be combined in the main combiner device to form the fourth (part) system light.

[0102] Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the light generation system may include a third light generation device and a fourth light generation device, wherein: (A) the third light generation device is configured to generate third light generation device light; wherein the third light generation device may include one or more third solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more third solid-state light sources may be selected from a group of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (B) the fourth light generation device is configured to generate fourth light generation device light; wherein the fourth light generation device may include one or more fourth solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more fourth solid-state light sources may be selected from a group of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (C) (i) the second light generation device, the third light generation device, and the fourth light generation device... (ii) One of the devices may be configured to provide its light-generating device light to a first light-emitting material via a first beam combiner device; (iii) another of the second, third, and fourth light-generating devices may be configured to provide its light-generating device light to a second light-emitting material via a second beam combiner device; (iv) yet another of the second, third, and fourth light-generating devices may be configured to provide its light-generating device light to a diffuser device via a third beam combiner device; and (d) the control system may be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first, second, third, and fourth light-generating devices.

[0103] In these embodiments, the control system may be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light generating device, the second light generating device, the third light generating device, and the fourth light generating device. Furthermore, one or more embodiments of the light generating system may offer the advantage that the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device can be irradiated separately, thereby facilitating the mixing of (only) the light from the first luminescent material, the light from the second luminescent material, or the diffused light into the system light.

[0104] Therefore, in the embodiments, in the operating mode of the light generation system, the first luminescent material may (only) receive light from: (i) the first light generating device; and (ii) one of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices, such as the second light generating device. Additionally, in the operating mode of the light generation system, the second luminescent material may (only) receive light from: (i) the first light generating device; and (ii) another of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices, such as the third light generating device. Furthermore, in the operating mode of the light generation system, the diffuser device may (only) receive light from: (i) the first light generating device; and (ii) another of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices, such as the fourth light generating device. Therefore, each of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may be configured to provide its (each) light generating device light to one of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device (uniquely selected from this group). For example, the light from the second light-generating device can be supplied to the first light-emitting material, converted into (second part) light from the first light-emitting material, and mixed with the system light at the main beam combiner device to provide a second (part) system light consisting of the first light-emitting material light (and optionally unconverted light from the second light-generating device).

[0105] Whether one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device receive light from the fourth light-generating device may depend on the control system (i.e., the control of the radiant flux of the light from the first light-generating device, the second light-generating device, the third light-generating device, and the fourth light-generating device) (and optionally on the selection of the optics). As described above, in embodiments, the optics can be selected such that light propagates only to one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, especially one (although this does not preclude the optics from being selected such that the light from the fourth light-generating device propagates to all three of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device).

[0106] Therefore, in the embodiments, the system light may include one or more of a first (partial) system light, a second (partial) system light, a third (partial) system light, and a fourth (partial) system light. The system light generated solely by the light from the fourth light generating device may also be referred to herein as the fourth system light.

[0107] The control system can be configured to control the first light generating device, the second light generating device, the third light generating device, and the fourth light generating device, for example, to specifically control the (first) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the first light generating device, the (second) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the second light generating device, the (third) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the third light generating device, and the (fourth) intensity (i.e., particularly the radiant flux) of the light from the fourth light generating device (thereby controlling the intensity of the first system light, the second system light, the third system light, and the fourth system light in the system light).

[0108] As described above, in embodiments, the light generation system may include a control system configured to control one or more of the spectral power distribution, CCT, CRI, and / or color point of the system light, particularly by controlling one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth light generation devices, particularly by controlling the light generation device and the second light generation device, and by controlling an optional third light generation device and an optional fourth light generation device.

[0109] The term "control" and similar terms specifically refer to at least determining the behavior of an element or supervising its operation. Therefore, "control" and similar terms as used herein can refer, for example, to applying some action to an element, such as measuring, displaying, driving, turning on, switching, changing temperature, etc. Furthermore, the term "control" and similar terms can also include monitoring. Therefore, the term "control" and similar terms can include applying some action to an element and monitoring the element. Control of an element can be accomplished through a control system, which may also be referred to as a "controller." The control system and the element can be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. An element may include a control system. In embodiments, the control system and the element may not be physically coupled. Control can be accomplished through wired and / or wireless control. The term "control system" can also refer to multiple different control systems that are functionally coupled, for example, one of which may be a master control system, while one or more other control systems may be subordinate to the control system. The control system may include a user interface or be functionally coupled thereto. The control system may also be configured to receive and execute instructions from a remote control. In some embodiments, the control system can be controlled via an application on a device (e.g., a smartphone or portable device such as an iPhone, tablet, etc.). Therefore, the device is not necessarily coupled to a lighting system, but may be (temporarily) functionally coupled to a light-generating system. Therefore, in some embodiments, the control system may also be configured to be controlled via an application on a remote device. In these embodiments, the control system of the light generating system may be controlled as a slave control system or in slave mode. The light generating system may also include means for communicating with other systems or devices, such as based on Bluetooth, Thread, Wi-Fi, LiFi, ZigBee, BLE, or WiMAX or other wireless technologies.

[0110] Returning to the light generating apparatus, in embodiments, each light generating apparatus may include (its respective) solid-state light source. The term "light source" can, in principle, refer to any light source known in the art. In one specific embodiment, the light source includes a solid-state light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED) or a laser diode (or "diode laser")). The term "light source" can also refer to multiple (substantially identical or different) light sources, such as 2-2000 solid-state (LED) light sources. "Different light sources" or "multiple different light sources" and similar expressions in embodiments can refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from at least two different categories. Similarly, the phrase "identical light source" or "multiple identical light sources" and similar expressions in embodiments can refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from the same category. Therefore, the term "LED" can also refer to multiple LEDs. Furthermore, in embodiments, the term "light source" can also refer to a so-called chip-on-board (COB) light source. The term "COB" specifically refers to an LED chip that exists in the form of a semiconductor chip, which is neither packaged nor connected, but directly mounted on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). Therefore, multiple light-emitting semiconductor light sources can be configured on the same substrate. In embodiments, a COB is multiple LED chips configured together as a single lighting module.

[0111] The term "light source" can also refer to a chip-scale package. A medium-power package may include one or more solid-state dies. The dies may be covered by a layer comprising a light-emitting material. The die size may be equal to or less than 2 mm, such as in the range of, for example, 0.2-2 mm. In this document, the term "light source" may also specifically refer to small solid-state light sources, such as those having miniature or micro-sized dimensions. For example, a light source may include one or more mini-LEDs and micro-LEDs, such as, in particular, micro-LEDs or "microLEDs" or "μLEDs". In this document, the term miniature size or mini-LED particularly refers to a solid-state light source having dimensions (such as die size, especially length and width) selected from the range of 100 μm to 1 mm. In this document, the term μ-sized or micro-LED particularly refers to a solid-state light source having dimensions (such as die size, especially length and width) selected from the range of 100 μm and smaller.

[0112] A light source may have a light-escape surface. For an LED, this could be, for example, an LED die, or, when resin is applied to the LED die, the outer surface of the resin. In principle, it could also be the end of an optical fiber. The term "escape surface" specifically refers to a portion of the light source where light actually leaves or escapes from the light source. The light source is configured to provide a light beam. This light beam escapes from the light-escape surface of the light source. Similarly, a light-generating system may include a light-escape surface, such as an end window. The term "light source" can 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" can also refer to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), such as a passive matrix OLED or an active matrix OLED (AMOLED). In one embodiment, the light source includes an LED. The term "light source" or "solid-state light source" may also refer to a superluminescent diode (SLED). Specifically, terms such as "solid-state light source" or "solid-state material light source" may refer to semiconductor light sources, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes, or superluminescent diodes.

[0113] In embodiments, the light source may include one or more micro-optical devices (microlens arrays) downstream of a single solid-state light source (e.g., an LED), or micro-optical devices downstream of multiple solid-state light sources (e.g., multiple LEDs shared). In embodiments, the light source may include LEDs with on-chip optics. In embodiments, the light source includes pixelated individual LEDs (with or without optics) (providing on-chip beam control in some embodiments). In embodiments, the light source may be configured to provide primary radiation for direct use, such as, for example, blue light sources (e.g., blue LEDs), green light sources (e.g., green LEDs), and red light sources (e.g., red LEDs). Such LEDs may not include a luminescent material (“phosphor”) and may be referred to as direct-color LEDs. However, in other embodiments, the light source may be configured to provide primary radiation, and a portion of the primary radiation is converted into secondary radiation. The secondary radiation may be based on the conversion of the luminescent material. Therefore, secondary radiation may also be referred to as luminescent material radiation. In embodiments, the luminescent material may constitute the light source, such as an LED with a layer of luminescent material or a dome comprising luminescent material. Such LEDs may be referred to as phosphor-converted LEDs or PC LEDs (phosphor-converted LEDs). In other embodiments, the light-emitting material may be disposed at a distance from the light source (“remote”), for example, the LED having the light-emitting material layer does not directly contact the LED die.

[0114] In some embodiments, the light-generating device may include a light-emitting material. In other embodiments, the light-generating device may include a PCLED. In still other embodiments, the light-generating device may include a direct LED (i.e., a phosphorless LED). In some embodiments, the light-generating device may include a laser device, such as a laser diode. In still other embodiments, the light-generating device may include a superluminescent diode. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the light source may be selected from the group consisting of (solid-state) laser diodes and superluminescent diodes. In still other embodiments, the light source may include an LED. The light source may be configured in particular to generate light having an optical axis (O), beam shape, and spectral power distribution. In some embodiments, the light source may include one or more wavelength bands with a bandwidth similar to the known bandwidth of a laser.

[0115] Therefore, the term "light source" can refer to the light-generating element itself, such as a solid-state light source; it can also refer, for example, to a package of a light-generating element (e.g., a solid-state light source) and one or more elements including a luminescent material and (other) optical devices (e.g., lenses, collimators). In embodiments, the term "light source" can also therefore refer to a combination of a light source (e.g., an LED) and an optical filter that can alter the spectral power distribution of the light generated by the light source. Furthermore, in embodiments, the term "light source" can also refer to a light source based on light conversion, such as a light source combined with a luminescent conversion material. A light conversion element ("converter element" or "converter") can include an element having a luminescent material. For example, a solid-state light source itself, 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 conversion element (optionally coupled to the solid-state light source) (e.g., a blue LED and a light conversion element) can also be a light source (but can also be referred to as a light-generating device). Thus, a white LED is a light source (but can also be referred to, for example, as a (white) light-generating device).

[0116] The term "laser source" specifically refers to a laser. Such lasers are particularly configured to generate laser light having one or more wavelengths in the UV, visible, or infrared bands, and especially to generate light selected from the spectral wavelength range of 200-2000 nm, for example, light selected from the spectral wavelength range of 300-1500 nm. The term "laser" specifically refers to a device that emits light through a light amplification process based on stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation. Particularly in some embodiments, the term "laser" may refer to a solid-state laser. In specific embodiments, the term "laser" or "laser source" or similar terms may refer to a laser diode (or diode laser). Therefore, in embodiments, the light source includes a laser source. In the embodiments, the terms "laser," "solid-state laser," or "solid-state material laser" may refer to one or more of the following: cerium-doped lithium strontium (or calcium) fluoride (Ce:LiSAF, Ce:LiCAF), chromium-doped chrysoberyl (alexandrite) laser, chromium zinc selenide (Cr:ZnSe) laser, divalent samarium-doped calcium fluoride (Sm:CaF2) laser, Er:YAG laser, and erbium-doped and erbium-ytterbium co-doped lasers. Glass lasers, F-centered lasers, holmium YAG (Ho:YAG) lasers, Nd:YAG lasers, NdCrYAG lasers, neodymium-doped calcium yttrium oxyborate Nd:YCa4O(BO3)3 or Nd:YCOB, neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (Nd:YVO4) lasers, neodymium glass (Nd:glass) lasers, neodymium lithium yttrium fluoride (Nd:YLF) solid-state lasers, promethium-147 doped phosphate glass (147Pm) 3+ Solid-state lasers (glass), ruby ​​lasers (Al2O3:Cr) 3 + ), Thulium yttrium aluminum garnet (Tm:YAG) laser, Titanium sapphire (Ti:sapphire; Al2O3:Ti) 3+ This includes lasers such as trivalent uranium-doped calcium fluoride (U:CaF2) solid-state lasers, ytterbium-doped glass lasers (rod-shaped, plate / chip-shaped, and fiber-shaped), ytterbium YAG (Yb:YAG) lasers, and Yb2O3 (glass or ceramic) lasers. In embodiments, the terms "laser," "solid-state laser," or "solid-state material laser" may refer to one or more of the following: semiconductor laser diodes, such as GaN, InGaN, AlGaInP, AlGaAs, InGaAsP, lead salts, vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), quantum cascade lasers, hybrid silicon lasers, etc. The term "solid-state material laser" and similar terms may refer to solid-state lasers based on crystal or glass substrates doped with transition metal ions and / or lanthanide ions, or fiber lasers, photonic crystal lasers, semiconductor lasers, etc.

[0117] For example, including second and third harmonic generation embodiments, the light source may include one or more of the following: an F-center laser, a yttrium vanadate (Nd:YVO4) laser, a promethium-147 doped phosphate glass (147Pm). 3+ (glass) and titanium sapphire (Ti: sapphire; Al2O3: Ti) 3+ Lasers. For example, considering the generation of second and third harmonics, such a light source can be used to produce blue light. Lasers can be used in conjunction with up-converters to obtain shorter (laser) wavelengths. For example, up-conversion can be achieved using certain (trivalent) rare-earth ions or nonlinear crystals. Alternatively, lasers can be used in conjunction with down-converters (e.g., dye lasers) to obtain longer (laser) wavelengths.

[0118] In embodiments, the term "laser source" may also refer to multiple (different or identical) laser sources. In a specific embodiment, the term "laser source" may refer to multiple N (identical) laser sources. In embodiments, N≥2, for example N≥5, especially N≥8. In this way, higher (laser) brightness can be obtained. In embodiments, the laser sources may be arranged as a group of lasers. The laser sources are configured to generate laser source light (or "laser"). The laser source light consists essentially of laser source light. The source light may also include two or more (different or identical) laser source lights. For example, the laser source lights of two or more (different or identical) laser sources may be coupled into a light guide to provide a single beam of light including the laser source lights of the two or more (different or identical) laser sources. In a specific embodiment, the laser source light is therefore a particularly collimated (laser) source light.

[0119] In embodiments, the laser source light may include one or more bands with bandwidths similar to those of a known laser. In specific embodiments, these bands may be relatively sharp spectral lines, such as having a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of ≤20 nm at room temperature, for example, ≤10 nm. Therefore, the source light has a spectral power distribution (the intensity of the energy scale as a function of wavelength), which may include one or more (narrow) bands. The beam (of the source light) may be a focused or collimated beam of the (laser) source light. The term "focused" specifically refers to converging into a small spot. This spot may be located at, or slightly upstream of, or slightly downstream of, the discrete converter region. Specifically, focusing and / or collimation may cause the cross-sectional shape of the beam (perpendicular to the optical axis) in the discrete converter region (side) to be substantially no larger than the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the discrete converter region (where the source light illuminates the discrete converter region). Focusing (of the laser source light) may be achieved by one or more optical devices, such as, in particular, two (focusing) lenses. Collimation may be performed by one or more (other) optical devices, such as collimating elements, like lenses and / or parabolic mirrors. In an embodiment, the (laser) light source beam can be relatively highly collimated, for example, in an embodiment, the collimation is ≤2° (FWHM), more specifically ≤1° (FWHM), and most particularly ≤0.5° (FWHM).

[0120] As described above, the first luminescent material can operate in either a transmission mode or a reflection mode. Similarly, the second luminescent material can also operate in either a transmission mode or a reflection mode. Furthermore, the diffuser device can also operate in either a transmission mode or a reflection mode. Most of the above embodiments apply at least to the transmission mode of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device (all of them). Some embodiments are described below in which all three operate in a reflection mode. However, as described above, they can also all operate in a transmission mode, or one or both can operate in a reflection mode, or both or one can operate in a reflection mode.

[0121] Therefore, in the embodiments (especially including one or more of them), the following conditions apply: (a) the first luminescent material operates in a reflective mode; (b) the second luminescent material operates in a reflective mode; and (c) the diffuser device operates in a reflective mode. In these embodiments, the diffuser device may include two polarization-maintaining diffusers. The first polarization-maintaining diffuser may be configured to receive p-polarized light, and the second polarization-maintaining diffuser may be configured to receive s-polarized light. A single polarization-maintaining diffuser may also be used, but in embodiments, its efficiency may be lower than that of two polarization-maintaining diffusers. Furthermore, this may also mean that at least one of (a) the first light generating device and (b) another light generating device (e.g., the second light generating device) may be configured to provide p-polarized light or s-polarized light, and the other of the first light generating device and the other light generating device (e.g., the second light generating device) may be configured to provide s-polarized light or p-polarized light. For example, in an embodiment, the first light generating device may be configured to provide s-polarized light, while the second light generating device may be configured to provide p-polarized light.

[0122] This can also affect the beam combiner device. As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the beam combiner device can be configured upstream of the luminescent material and can include a polarization beam combiner. However, in a particular embodiment, a third beam combiner device configured upstream of two polarization-maintaining diffusers can include two polarization beam combiners. Similarly, the light generation system can also include two polarization-changing elements, respectively configured upstream of the two corresponding polarization-maintaining diffusers and downstream of the two corresponding polarization beam combiners (see above). Therefore, while in transmission mode, the third beam combiner device can include a single (polarization) beam combiner; in reflection mode, the third beam combiner device can include two (polarization) beam combiners.

[0123] In this manner, in an embodiment, the device light from one of the light-generating devices can be split into three parts by a beam splitter (where at least two are partially (mirror-reflective) and partially transmissive (i.e., also referred to herein as "transparent specular mirrors")). These three parts can be propagated through optical devices to one of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the polarization-maintaining diffuser. Furthermore, in this manner, in a (specific) embodiment, the device light from another light-generating device can be split into three parts by a beam splitter (where at least two are partially reflective and partially transmissive). The (other) three parts of light can also be propagated through optical devices to another of the first light-emitting material, (also) the second light-emitting material, and the polarization-maintaining diffuser.

[0124] However, a partial beam splitter can be used to combine the optical paths from the corresponding first portion to the first luminescent material and / or to the corresponding second portion to the second luminescent material. Therefore, the optical paths from the corresponding third portion to the corresponding polarization-maintaining diffuser can thus be at least partially non-overlapping, since the corresponding third portion must propagate to the corresponding polarization-maintaining diffuser.

[0125] Furthermore, in the embodiments, the light generating system, and more particularly the optical devices, may also include a fourth beam combiner device and a fifth beam combiner device.

[0126] Specifically, the fourth beam combiner device can be configured in the optical path between the first beam combiner device and the first light-emitting material, and can be configured downstream of the fifth beam combiner device. In this way, the first portion of the light from the first light-generating device and the first portion of the light from the second light-generating device can be guided to the first light-emitting material through the first beam combiner device and the fourth beam combiner device.

[0127] Furthermore, the fifth beam combiner device can be configured in the optical path between the second beam combiner device and the second light-emitting material, or it can be configured in the optical path between the diffuser device and the fourth beam combiner device. In this way, the second portion of the light from the first light-generating device and the second portion of the light from the second light-generating device can be guided to the second light-emitting material via the second beam combiner device and the fifth beam combiner device.

[0128] However, the fifth beam combiner can also be configured to receive (polarized) diffused light from the diffuser device (from two polarization-maintaining diffusers) and direct that light toward the direction of the fourth beam combiner.

[0129] However, the optical device may also include a twelfth reflector. Specifically, the twelfth reflector may be configured at: (i) downstream of the first and second beam combiners; and (ii) upstream of the third beam combiner assembly. Like the third reflector, the twelfth reflector may be totally internally reflective.

[0130] As described above, in the embodiments, the light generation system may include a first light generation device and a second light generation device. The first light generation device may be disposed upstream of a first beamsplitter (and second and third beamsplitters). Furthermore, in the embodiments, the second light generation device may be disposed upstream of one or more of the first, second, and / or third beam combiner devices. Specifically, the second light generation device may be disposed upstream of the first beam combiner (and second and third beam combiner devices).

[0131] As described above, the main beam combiner device can receive light from the first luminescent material (when generated), light from the second luminescent material (when generated), and (polarized) diffused light (when generated). Specifically, in the reflective embodiment, the main beam combiner device may include a fourth beam combiner device. Therefore, the main beam combiner device can be configured to guide the corresponding first portions of the first and second light generating devices to the first luminescent material, but it can also be configured to receive (polarized) diffused light and light from the second luminescent material through a fifth beam combiner.

[0132] The system may include an optical exit. A main beam combiner may be configured upstream of the optical exit, or may provide the optical exit. The optical exit may also be provided by optical elements, such as lenses or collimators.

[0133] On the other hand, particularly where one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device operate in a reflective mode, more specifically, where all of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device operate in a reflective mode, the present invention can also provide a light generation system configured to generate system light, wherein the light generation system includes a first light generation device, a second light generation device, a first luminescent material, a second luminescent material, a diffuser device, a control system, and optical components. Specifically, the optical components may include a first mirror optics device, a second mirror optics device, a third reflector, and a main beam combiner device. However, in embodiments, the optical components may also include a fourth beam combiner device, a fifth beam combiner device, and a third beam combiner device. In embodiments (see also above), the first light generation device may be configured to generate first light generation device light; wherein the first light generation device includes one or more first solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more first solid-state light sources are selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. In certain embodiments, the first light generating device and optical system may be configured to: (i) provide a first portion of the light from the first light generating device to a first luminescent material via a first mirror optics and a fourth beam combiner device; (ii) provide a second portion of the light from the first light generating device to a second luminescent material via a second mirror optics and a fifth beam combiner device; and (iii) provide a third portion of the light from the first light generating device to a diffuser device via a third reflector and a third beam combiner device. Furthermore, in particular (see above), the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device is fixed. However, in certain embodiments, the first light generating device and optics may be configured such that: (i) one of the mirror optics is positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices, and (ii) the other of the mirror optics is positioned upstream of all three beam combiner devices. Furthermore, in embodiments (see also above), the second light generating device may be configured to generate second light generating device light. Specifically, the second light generating device may include one or more second solid-state light sources. Specifically, in embodiments, one or more second solid-state light sources are selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. However, in embodiments, the second light generating device and optics may be configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the light from the second light generating device to a first light-emitting material via a first mirror optics device (and a fourth beam combiner); (ii) providing a second portion of the light from the second light generating device to a second light-emitting material via a second mirror optics device and a fifth beam combiner device;And (iii) providing a third portion of the light from the second light generating device to the diffuser device via a third beam combiner device. Similar to the above embodiments, in a specific embodiment, the second light generating device and optics may be configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the light from the second light generating device to a first luminescent material via a first mirror optics device (and a fourth beam combiner); (ii) providing a second portion of the light from the second light generating device to a second luminescent material via a second mirror optics device and a fifth beam combiner; and (iii) providing a third portion of the light from the second light generating device to the diffuser device via a third beam combiner device; or may be configured to provide one of the following: (i) providing a third ... device; and (iii) providing a third portion of the light from the second light generating (i) A mirror optics device (and a fourth beam combiner) provides a first portion of the light from the second light generating device to the first light-emitting material; (ii) a second portion of the light from the second light generating device is provided to the second light-emitting material via a second mirror optics device and a fifth beam combiner device; and (iii) a third portion of the light from the second light generating device is provided to a diffuser device via a third beam combiner device (especially when a third light generating device and an optional fourth light generating device are also present, for illuminating one or more of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, where these portions are not illuminated by the second light generating device). However, as described above, the first light-emitting material can be configured to convert (a) at least a portion of the first light generating device light received by the first light-emitting material and (b) at least a portion of the second light generating device light received by the first light-emitting material into first light-emitting material light. Furthermore, as described above, the second light-emitting material can be configured to convert (a) at least a portion of the first light generating device light received by the second light-emitting material and (b) at least a portion of the second light generating device light received by the second light-emitting material into second light-emitting material light. Furthermore, as described above, the diffuser device can be configured to diffuse (a) at least a portion of the first light-generating device light received by the diffuser device and (b) at least a portion of the second light-generating device light received by the diffuser device into diffuse light. As described above, whether the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device receive the first light-generating device light and / or the second light-generating device light may depend on the control system and the manner in which the second device light propagates into the system (i.e., propagates to one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and / or the diffuser device). Furthermore, as described above, the main beam combiner device can be configured downstream of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device, and can be configured to provide a system beam comprising one or more of the first luminescent material light, the second luminescent material light, and diffuse light. Furthermore, in embodiments, the system light may include one or more of the following: (i) a first system light generated solely by the first light-generating device light;And (ii) a second system light generated solely by the light from the second light generating device. However, in embodiments, the first system light may be white light, and in one or more operating modes of the light generating system, the spectral power distribution of the second system light may differ from that of the first system light (e.g., colored light or white light having a CRI and / or CCT different from the first system light). However, as described above, the control system may be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light generating device and the second light generating device. Therefore, in another aspect, particularly when one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device operate in a reflective mode, more specifically, when all of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device operate in a reflective mode, the present invention may (also) provide a light generating system configured to generate system light, wherein the light generating system includes a first light generating device, a second light generating device, a first luminescent material, a second luminescent material, a diffuser device, a control system, and optical components; wherein: (A) the optical components include a first mirror optical component, a second mirror optical component, and a third... (A) A reflector and a main beam combiner assembly; wherein the optical components further include a fourth beam combiner assembly, a fifth beam combiner assembly, and a third beam combiner assembly; (B) A first light generating device is configured to generate first light generating device light; wherein the first light generating device includes one or more first solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more first solid-state light sources are selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (C) The first light generating device and the optical system are configured to provide: (i) a first portion of the first light generating device light to a first light-emitting material through the first reflector optics and the fourth beam combiner assembly; (ii) light through a second reflector. The optical device and the fifth beam combiner assembly provide a second portion of the light from the first light-generating device to the second light-emitting material; and (iii) provide a third portion of the light from the first light-generating device to the diffuser assembly via a third reflector and the third beam combiner assembly, wherein the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light-generating device is fixed; (D) the first light-generating device and the optical device are configured such that: (i) one of the mirror optics is positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiner assemblies, and (ii) another mirror optics is positioned above all three beam combiner assemblies. (E) The second light generating device is configured to generate second light generating device light; wherein the second light generating device includes one or more second solid-state light sources; wherein the one or more second solid-state light sources are selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes; (F) The second light generating device and optics are configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the second light generating device light to a first light-emitting material through a first mirror optics (and a fourth beam combiner); (ii) providing a second portion of the second light generating device light to a second light-emitting material through a second mirror optics and a fifth beam combiner device;(iii) Providing a third portion of the light from the second light generating device to the diffuser device via the third beam combiner device; (G) The first light-emitting material is configured to convert at least a portion of the first light generating device light received by the first light-emitting material and at least a portion of the second light generating device light received by the first light-emitting material into first light-emitting material light; (H) The second light-emitting material is configured to convert at least a portion of the first light generating device light received by the second light-emitting material and at least a portion of the second light generating device light received by the second light-emitting material into second light-emitting material light; (I) The diffuser device is configured to convert at least a portion of the first light generating device light received by the diffuser device and at least a portion of the second light generating device light received by the diffuser device. Light is diffused into diffuse light; (J) a main beam combiner device is disposed downstream of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material, and the diffuser device, and is configured to provide a system light comprising one or more of the first light-emitting material light, the second light-emitting material light, and diffuse light; wherein the system light comprises one or more of the following: (i) a first system light generated solely by the light from the first light-generating device, and (ii) a second system light generated solely by the light from the second light-generating device; wherein the first system light is white light, and wherein, in one or more operating modes of the light-generating system, the spectral power distribution of the second system light differs from that of the first system light; and (K) a control system is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light-generating device and the second light-generating device.

[0134] When the ratio of radiant flux is fixed, this likely refers to an operating mode in which the radiant flux defining that ratio is essentially unchanged by the control system. While dimming (down or up) is possible, the ratio of radiant flux defining that ratio may itself remain largely constant.

[0135] Specifically, in the embodiments, one or more of the following can be used: (i) the fourth beam combiner device can be disposed in the optical path between the first mirror optics and the first light-emitting material, and is disposed downstream of the fifth beam combiner device; (ii) the fifth beam combiner device can be disposed in the optical path between the second mirror optics and the second light-emitting material, and is disposed in the optical path between the diffuser device and the fourth beam combiner device. Therefore, in some embodiments, (i) the fourth beam combiner device is disposed in the optical path between the first mirror optics and the first light-emitting material, and is disposed downstream of the fifth beam combiner device; (ii) the fifth beam combiner device is disposed in the optical path between the second mirror optics and the second light-emitting material, and is disposed in the optical path between the diffuser device and the fourth beam combiner device.

[0136] As described above, in the reflection mode, the diffuser device can include more elements than in the transmission mode. In an embodiment, the diffuser device can include two polarization-maintaining diffusers. One diffuser can be configured to primarily receive s-polarized light, and the other diffuser can be configured to primarily receive p-polarized light. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the mirror optics disposed upstream of the luminescent material can each include one or more of the following: (i) a polarization combiner and (ii) a dichroic combiner. However, in (these reflection-mode) embodiments, a third combiner device disposed upstream of the two polarization-maintaining diffusers can include two polarization combiners. Specifically, the light generation system can also include two polarization-changing elements, disposed upstream of the respective two polarization-maintaining diffusers and downstream of the respective two polarization combiners. Therefore, specifically, in such (embodiments) of the light generation system, the following also apply: (A) the diffuser device includes two polarization-maintaining diffusers; (B) the mirror optics disposed upstream of the luminescent material may each include one or more of a polarization combiner and a dichroic combiner; and the third combiner device disposed upstream of the two polarization-maintaining diffusers may include two polarization combiners; (C) the light generation system also includes two polarization-changing elements disposed upstream of the respective two polarization-maintaining diffusers and downstream of the respective two polarization combiners.

[0137] Furthermore, in embodiments, the optical device may include a third reflector; wherein the third reflector may be configured to: (i) be downstream of the first and second mirror optics, and (ii) be upstream of the third beam combiner device. Similarly, the reflector may be a fully specular reflector (substantially without transmission characteristics, see above). Furthermore, in embodiments, the second light generating device may be configured upstream of one or more of the first, second, and third mirror optics. However, in embodiments, the main beam combiner device may include a fourth beam combiner device. Therefore, the optical device may include an optical element having the functions of both the main and fourth beam combiner devices. In other words, the optical element may be configured to combine at least a portion of the light from the first light generating device and at least a portion of the light from the second light generating device, and the optical element may be configured to combine the light from the first luminescent material, the light from the second luminescent material, and the diffused light. Therefore, in the embodiments, the following conditions may be applicable: (A) the optical device includes a third reflector; wherein the third reflector is configured to: (i) be downstream of the first and second mirror optics and (ii) be upstream of the third beam combiner device; (B) the second light generating device is configured to be upstream of one or more of the first, second, and third mirror optics and the third beam combiner device; and (C) the main beam combiner device includes a fourth beam combiner device.

[0138] More specifically, in an embodiment, the second light generating device may be disposed upstream of all the first reflector optics, the second reflector optics, and the third beam combiner device.

[0139] However, in embodiments, the light generation system may further include one or more of a third light generation device and / or a fourth light generation device. As described above, in embodiments, the third light generation device may be configured to generate third light generation device light. Furthermore, specifically, the third light generation device may include one or more third solid-state light sources. Specifically, the one or more third solid-state light sources may be selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. Furthermore, as described above, in embodiments, the fourth light generation device may be configured to generate fourth light generation device light. Furthermore, specifically, the fourth light generation device may include one or more fourth solid-state light sources. Specifically, the one or more fourth solid-state light sources may be selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes.

[0140] However, in the embodiments, one or more of the following may apply: (i) one of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may be configured to provide its light generating device light to the first light emitting material via the first mirror optics (and the fourth beam combiner); (ii) the other of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may be configured to provide its light generating device light to the second light emitting material via the second mirror optics (and the fifth beam combiner); and (iii) the other of the second, third, and fourth light generating devices may be configured to provide its light generating device light to the diffuser device via the third beam combiner device.

[0141] Furthermore, as can be seen from the above, the control system can be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light by controlling the first light generating device, the second light generating device, (one or more) the third light generating device and the fourth light generating device.

[0142] However, in embodiments, the first light generating device and the third light generating device may be configured to generate light with different spectral power distributions but including the same polarization. Similarly, in embodiments, the first light generating device and the fourth light generating device may be configured to generate light with different spectral power distributions but having the same polarization.

[0143] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the fourth beam combiner device may be disposed downstream of the first reflector optics. However, in another embodiment, the fifth beam combiner device may be disposed downstream of the second reflector optics. However, in yet another embodiment, the third beam combiner device may be disposed downstream of the third reflector. However, in yet another embodiment, the fourth and fifth beam combiner devices may include dichroic beam combiners.

[0144] As repeatedly stated above, "whether the first luminescent material receives light from the first light-generating device and / or the second light-generating device may depend on the control system (i.e., the control of the radiative flux of the light from the first light-generating device and the second light-generating device) (and optionally on the selection of optics)." The phrase "and optionally on the selection of optics" and similar expressions specifically refer to the fact that whether the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device receive light from the second light-generating device depends not only on the control system but may also depend on the manner in which the light from the second light-generating device propagates into the system (i.e., propagates into one or more of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device).

[0145] As described above, in the (first) embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light generating device can be fixed. Specifically, in these embodiments, (a) the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device and (b) the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device can be different, thereby providing first system light and second system light with different spectral power distributions, respectively.

[0146] In the (second) embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion of the light from the second light generating device to the second and third portions of the light from the second light generating device can be controllable. In this embodiment, one or more other light generating devices may be selectively present, but this is not a necessary condition. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first ratio and the second ratio may differ in different operating modes of the light generating system.

[0147] In the (third) embodiment, at least three light generating devices may be present, including a first light generating device, a second light generating device, and other (e.g., a third) light generating devices. In these embodiments, the ratio of the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device to that from the third light generating device may be fixed. However, alternatively, in these embodiments, the ratio of the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device to that from the third light generating device may be fixed or controllable. Furthermore, in these embodiments, the second light generating device and the optics may be configured such that only one of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device (or optionally, both, but especially one) can receive the light from the second light generating device. Therefore, in these embodiments, the first ratio and the second ratio may also be different in the operating mode of the light generating system.

[0148] Note that the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light-generating device can be expressed as: ,in and None of them are zero (watts). Similarly, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the second light-generating device can be expressed as... In the embodiments, and None of them are zero (watts), but in other embodiments, and One or two (especially two) of these can be zero (watts). Therefore, when generating light from the first light-generating device, a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion of the first light-generating device light are always generated (through the optics). However, when generating light from the second light-generating device, one or more of the first, second, and third portions of the second light-generating device light may be generated (through the optics). When only one of them is generated, the term "portion" can therefore practically refer to substantially all of the second light-generating device light.

[0149] Similarly, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the third light-generating device can be expressed as: In the embodiments, and None of them are zero (watts), but in other embodiments, and One or two (especially two) of them can be zero (watts). When a fourth light-generating device is present, and In particular, two of them can be zero (watts). When generating light from the third light generating device, one or more of the first, second, and third portions of the third light generating device light can be generated (through the optical system). When only one of them is generated, the term "portion" can actually refer to substantially all of the third light generating device light.

[0150] Similarly, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the fourth light-generating device can be expressed as: In the embodiments, and One or two (especially two) of them can be zero (watts). When generating light from the fourth light generating device, one or more of the first, second, and third portions of the fourth light generating device light may be generated (through the optical system). When only one of them is generated, the term "portion" can actually refer to substantially all of the fourth light generating device light.

[0151] Radiant flux, particularly radiant flux related to the ratio of radiant flux, can refer to the radiant flux received by the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser, respectively. Therefore, for example, the radiant flux of the first portion of the light from the first light-generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the first light-generating device received by the first luminescent material. Similarly, the radiant flux of the second portion of the light from the first light-generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the first light-generating device received by the second luminescent material. Furthermore, the radiant flux of the third portion of the light from the first light-generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the first light-generating device received by the diffuser. Similarly, the radiant flux of the first portion of the light from the second light-generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the second light-generating device received by the first luminescent material. Likewise, the radiant flux of the second portion of the light from the third light-generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the third light-generating device received by the second luminescent material. Similarly, the radiant flux of the first portion of the light from the fourth light-generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the fourth light-generating device received by the first luminescent material. Furthermore, similarly, the radiant flux of the third portion of the light from the fourth light generating device can specifically refer to the radiant flux of the light from the fourth light generating device received by the diffuser device.

[0152] Therefore, in embodiments, the present invention provides CCT control for using a laser array by splitting the light from the laser array into different portions to focus the laser onto a phosphor and a diffuser. More specifically, the present invention provides CCT control for using a laser array by unequally splitting the light from different laser arrays into different portions for focusing the laser array onto different phosphors and diffusers. This can be achieved through the light generation system (embodiments) described herein.

[0153] The light-generating system may be part of or applied to, for example, the following: office lighting systems, home application systems, shop lighting systems, residential 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, directional sign systems, decorative lighting systems, portable systems, automotive applications, (outdoor) road lighting systems, urban lighting systems, greenhouse lighting systems, horticultural lighting, digital projection, or LCD backlighting. The light-generating system (or luminaire) may be part of, for example, an optical communication system or a disinfection system, or may be applied to, for example, an optical communication system or a disinfection system.

[0154] In this document, the terms “light” and “radiation” are used interchangeably unless the context clearly indicates that the term “light” refers only to visible light. Therefore, the terms “light” and “radiation” can refer to UV radiation, visible light, and IR radiation. In specific embodiments, particularly in lighting applications, the terms “light” and “radiation” (at least) refer to visible light.

[0155] A system, apparatus, or device may perform actions in a “mode,” “operating mode,” or “mode of operation.” The term “operating mode” may also be referred to as a “control mode.” Similarly, in a method, actions, stages, or steps may also be performed in a “mode,” “operating mode,” or “mode of operation.” However, this does not preclude the system, apparatus, or device from being used to provide another control mode or multiple other control modes. Likewise, it does not preclude the execution of one or more other modes before and / or after the current mode is executed.

[0156] However, in embodiments, a control system may be present, which is at least adapted to provide control modes. If other modes exist, the selection of these modes can be achieved, in particular, through a user interface, although other options may also exist, such as executing modes based on sensor signals or a (time) scheme. In embodiments, operating mode may also refer to a system, apparatus, or device that can only operate in a single operating mode (i.e., "on," without further adjustment).

[0157] Therefore, in this embodiment, the control system can perform control based on one or more of the following: input signals from the user interface, sensor signals, and / or timers. The term "timer" can refer to a clock and / or a predetermined timing scheme.

[0158] In another aspect, the invention also provides a lamp or luminaire comprising a light-generating system as defined herein. The luminaire may further include a housing, optical elements, a light-shielding grid, etc. The lamp or luminaire may also include a housing surrounding the light-generating system. The lamp or luminaire 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 invention also provides a projection device comprising a light-generating system as defined herein. In particular, a projection device, or “projector” or “image projector,” can be an optical device that projects an image (or moving image) onto a surface such as, for example, a projection screen. The projection device may include one or more light-generating systems as described herein. Thus, in one aspect, the invention also provides a lighting device selected from the group consisting of lamps, luminaires, projector devices, disinfection devices, photochemical reactors, and optical wireless communication devices, comprising a light-generating system as defined herein. The lighting device may include a housing or support 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 support configured to house or support one or more of optics, a control system, and a lighting device. Attached Figure Description

[0159] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, in which corresponding reference numerals denote corresponding parts, and in the drawings:

[0160] Referring to the accompanying drawings, where corresponding reference numerals denote corresponding parts, and:

[0161] Figures 1A-1E An embodiment of a light generation system in transmission mode is schematically depicted;

[0162] Figures 2A-2C An embodiment of a light-generating system in a reflection mode is schematically depicted;

[0163] Figures 3A-3C Another embodiment of the light generation system in the reflection mode is illustrated schematically;

[0164] Figure 4 An embodiment of the lighting device is schematically depicted.

[0165] The diagram is not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0166] Figures 1A-1E An embodiment of a light generation system 1000 configured to generate system light 1001 is schematically depicted. This light generation system may include a first light generating device 2000, a second light generating device 3000, a first light-emitting material 210, a second light-emitting material 220, a diffuser device 710, a control system 300, and optical components 500. Optical components 500 may include a first beam splitter TR1, a second beam splitter TR2, a first beam combiner device C1, a second beam combiner device C2, a third beam combiner device C3, and a main beam combiner device 590. Optionally, optical components 500 may also include a third reflector R3. In an embodiment, the first beam splitter TR1 and the second beam splitter TR2 may be transparent specular mirrors (both). Furthermore, optical components 500 may include a fourth beam splitter TR4 and a fifth beam splitter TR5. The fourth beam splitter TR4 and the fifth beam splitter TR5 are selected from semi-transparent mirrors.

[0167] The first light generating device 2000 can be configured to generate first light generating device light 2001. Furthermore, the first light generating device 2000 may include one or more first solid-state light sources 10. The one or more first solid-state light sources 10 are particularly selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. The first light generating device 2000 and optical device 500 can be configured to provide a first portion of the first light generating device light 2001 to a first light-emitting material 210 via a first beam splitter TR1 and a first beam combiner C1. Additionally, the first light generating device 2000 and optical device 500 can also be configured to provide a second portion of the first light generating device light 2001 to a second light-emitting material 220 via a second beam splitter TR2 and a second beam combiner device C2. Furthermore, the first light generating device 2000 and optical device 500 can be configured to provide a third portion of the first light generating device light 2001 to a diffuser device 710 via a third beam combiner device C3 (and a third reflector R3). In an embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the first light generating device light 2001 can be fixed. Furthermore, the first light generating device 2000 and the optical device 500 can be configured such that: (i) one of the beam splitters TR1 or TR2 (e.g., especially the second beam splitter TR2) can be positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices C1, C2, C3; and (ii) the other of the beam splitters TR1 or TR2 (e.g., especially the first beam splitter TR1) can be positioned upstream of all three beam combiner devices C1, C2, C3. Additionally, as described above, the optical device 500 may include a third reflector R3. In an embodiment, the first light generating device 2000 and the optical device 500 may be configured such that the third reflector R3 may be configured as: (i) downstream of the two beam splitters TR1 or TR2; (ii) upstream of a selected one of the beam combiner devices C1, C2, C3, for example, particularly upstream of the third beam combiner device C3.

[0168] The second light generating device 3000 can be configured to generate second light generating device light 3001. Therefore, the second light generating device 3000 may include one or more second solid-state light sources 20. In embodiments, the one or more second solid-state light sources 20 may be selected from a group of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. Furthermore, the second light generating device 3000 and the optical device 500 can be configured to transmit light through a first beam combiner C1 (and optionally through a fourth beam splitter TR4, see, for example) Figure 1A and Figure 1B The first portion of the light from the second light-generating device 3001 is provided to the first light-emitting material 210. Additionally or alternatively, the second light-generating device 3000 and the optical device 500 can be configured to transmit light through a second beam combiner device C2 (and optionally through a fifth beam splitter TR5, see, for example, Figure 1 and...). Figure 1B The second portion of the light from the second light-generating device 3001 is provided to the second light-emitting material 220. Additionally or alternatively, the second light-generating device 3000 and the optical device 500 may be configured to transmit light through a third beam combiner C3 (and optionally through a sixth reflector R6, see e.g., see...) Figure 1A and Figure 1B The third portion of the light from the second light generating device 3001 is provided to the diffuser device 710. Therefore, the second light generating device 3000 can be configured upstream of the first beam combiner C1, the second beam combiner C2, and the third beam combiner C3 (all three). In an embodiment, the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the second light generating device 3001 can be fixed. Furthermore, the second light generating device 3000 and the optics 500 can be configured such that: (i) one of the beam splitters TR4 or TR5 (e.g., especially the fifth beam splitter TR5) is configured upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices C1, C2, C3; and (ii) the other of the beam splitters TR4 or TR5 (e.g., especially the fourth beam splitter TR4) is configured upstream of all three beam combiners C1, C2, C3. In addition, the optical device 500 may include a sixth reflector R6, wherein the sixth reflector R6 may be configured to: (i) be located downstream of the two beam splitters TR4, TR5, and (ii) be located upstream of one of the beam combiner devices C1, C2, C3 (such as, in particular, the third beam combiner C3).

[0169] The first luminescent material 210 may be configured to convert at least a portion (a first part) of the light from the first light generating device 2001 received by the first luminescent material 210 into first luminescent material light 211. Additionally, the first luminescent material 210 may also be configured to convert at least a portion (a first part) of the light from the second light generating device 3001 received by the first luminescent material 210 into first luminescent material light 211. Therefore, in an embodiment, the first luminescent material light 211 may include a first part originating from the first light generating device 2001 and a second part originating from the second light generating device 3001. Furthermore, the second luminescent material 220 may be configured to convert at least a portion (a second part) of the light from the first light generating device 2001 received by the second luminescent material 220 into second luminescent material light 221. Additionally, the second luminescent material 220 may be configured to convert at least a portion (a second part) of the light from the second light generating device 3001 received by the second luminescent material 220 into second luminescent material light 221. Therefore, in an embodiment, the second luminescent material light 221 may include a first portion originating from the first light generating device light 2001, and (optionally) a second portion originating from the second light generating device light 3001. Furthermore, the diffuser device 710 may be configured to diffuse at least a third portion of the first light generating device light 2001 received by the diffuser device 710 into diffuse (blue) light 711. Additionally, the diffuser device 710 may also be configured to diffuse at least a third portion of the second light generating device light 3001 received by the diffuser device 710 into diffuse light 711. Therefore, in an embodiment, the diffuse light 711 may include a first portion originating from the first light generating device light 2001, and (optionally) a second portion originating from the second light generating device light 3001.

[0170] Along the path of the first light-generating device light 2001 (and / or the second light-generating device light 3001), the main beam combiner device 590 may be disposed downstream of the first luminescent material 210, the second luminescent material 220, and the diffuser device 710. Furthermore, the main beam combiner device 590 may be configured to provide a beam of system light 1001, which includes one or more of the first luminescent material light 211, the second luminescent material light 221, and / or the diffuser light 711. This system beam may exit the light-generating system 1000, in particular, through a light exit 1500. Here, the light exit 1500 is schematically represented as a lens. However, other options may also be present, such as an aperture, a collimator, etc. The system light 1001 may include one or more of the following: (i) consisting solely of the first light-generating device light 2001 (see...). Figure 1C (ii) the first system light 1001a generated by the second light generating device; and (ii) the light 3001 generated solely by the second light generating device (see Figure 1BThe second system light 1001b is generated by the first system light source 1001a (and the second system light 1001b). In an embodiment, at least one of the first system light source 1001a (and the second system light 1001b) can be white light. Furthermore, in one or more operating modes of the light generation system 1000, the spectral power distribution of the second system light 1001b can differ from the spectral power distribution of the first system light 1001a. Furthermore, the control system 300 can be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light 1001 by controlling the first light generation device 2000 and the second light generation device 3000. Therefore, in an embodiment, the correlated color temperature (CCT) of the system light 1001 can be selected from a range of 1500-20000K, and the variable correlated color temperature is at least 2000K. That is, the control system 300 can be configured to adjust the CCT of the system light 1001 within a range of at least 2000K.

[0171] Returning to the first light generating device 2000, the first light generating device 2000 may include a first laser group 2100 (wherein the first laser group 2100 may be configured to generate first light generating device light 2001). Furthermore, the second light generating device 3000 may include a second laser group 3100 (wherein the second laser group 3100 may be configured to generate second light generating device light 3001). For example... Figure 1A As shown, the first, second, and third beam combiner devices C1, C2, and C3 can be configured to transmit one of the first light generating device light 2001 and the second light generating device light 3001, and reflect the other of the first light generating device light 2001 and the second light generating device light 3001. This may be due to the optical characteristics of the first light generating device light 2001 and the second light generating device light 3001. That is, in the embodiment, the first light generating device 2000 and the second light generating device 3000 can be configured to generate light generating devices 2001 and 3001 including different linear polarizations, and the first, second, and third beam combiner devices C1, C2, and C3 can include polarization beam combiners. Therefore, the first, second, and third beam combiner devices C1, C2, and C3 can be configured to reflect and / or transmit light based on (linear)polarization. Alternatively, the first light generating device light 2001 may have a first centroid wavelength λc1, and the second light generating device light 3001 may have a second centroid wavelength λc2, wherein |λc1-λc2|≥10nm, and wherein the first, second, and third beam combiner devices C1, C2, and C3 include dichroic beam combiners. Therefore, the first, second, and third beam combiner devices C1, C2, and C3 can be configured to reflect and / or transmit light based on the difference in centroid wavelengths.

[0172] Figure 1AAn embodiment of the light generation system 1000 in its operating mode is schematically depicted, wherein a first light generation device 2000 and a second light generation device 3000 (both) provide corresponding light generation device lights 2001 and 3001. As shown, the light generation system 1000 may further include a seventh reflector R7, an eighth reflector R8, a ninth reflector R9, a tenth reflector R10, and an eleventh reflector R11. Starting from a first portion of the first light generation device light 2001, this light may be reflected at a first beam splitter TR1, reflected at a seventh reflector R7, reflected at a first beam combiner C1, and irradiate a first luminescent material 210, causing it to (at least partially) convert into (the first portion) luminescent material light 211. Simultaneously, the second portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device can be transmitted through the first beam splitter TR1, reflected at the second beam splitter TR2, reflected at the eighth reflector R8, reflected at the second beam combiner C2, and subsequently irradiate the second luminescent material 220, causing it to (at least partially) convert into the first portion of the second luminescent material light 221. Furthermore, the third portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device can be transmitted through the first beam splitter TR1 and the second beam splitter TR2, reflected at the third reflector R3, reflected at the ninth reflector R9, reflected at the third beam combiner C3, and can irradiate the diffuser device 710, causing it to (at least partially) diffuse into (the first portion) diffused light 711.

[0173] Returning to the second light generating device light 3001, a first portion of the second light generating device light 3001 can be reflected by the fourth beam splitter TR4, then transmitted by the first beam combiner device C1, and can irradiate the first luminescent material 210, causing it to (at least partially) transform into the second portion of the first luminescent material light 211. Simultaneously, the second portion of the second light generating device light 3001 can be transmitted by the fourth beam splitter TR4, reflected at the fifth beam splitter TR5, then transmitted by the second beam combiner device C2, and can irradiate the second luminescent material 220, causing it to (at least partially) transform into the second portion of the second luminescent material light 221. Furthermore, a third portion of the second light generating device light 3001 can be transmitted by the fourth beam splitter TR4 and the fifth beam splitter TR5, reflected at the sixth reflector R6, and finally transmitted by the third beam combiner device C3, and can irradiate the diffuser device 710, causing it to (at least partially) diffuse into the second portion of the diffused light 711. The diffused light 711 is reflected at the eleventh reflector R11 and incident on the main beam combiner device 590. Furthermore, the first luminescent material light 211 is reflected at the tenth reflector R10 and incident on the main beam combiner device 590, while the second luminescent material light 221 can (directly) transmit through to the main beam combiner device 590. The main beam combiner device 590 can combine the first luminescent material light 211, the second luminescent material light 221, and the diffused light 711 to provide system light 1001. Figure 1AAs shown, one or more of the following may apply: (a) the first luminescent material 210 may operate in transmission mode, (b) the second luminescent material 220 may operate in transmission mode, and (c) the diffuser device 710 may operate in transmission mode.

[0174] Figure 1B An embodiment (or operating mode) of a light generation system 1000 is schematically depicted, wherein a second light generation device 3000 provides second light generation device light 3001, and a first light generation device 2000 is configured (by the control system 300) to be in a closed state. Therefore, the system light 1001 may (substantially) consist of the second system light 1001b. As shown, the fourth beam splitter TR4 and the fifth beam splitter TR5 may be configured such that the second system light 1001b may include (and the second light generation device light 3001 can provide) a diffuse light 711 (a second portion) with a relatively larger component than the first luminescent material light 211 (a second portion).

[0175] Figure 1C An embodiment (or operating mode) of a light generation system 1000 is schematically depicted, wherein a first light generation device 2000 provides first light generation device light 2001, while a second light generation device 3000 is configured (by the control system 300) to be off. Therefore, the system light 1001 can (substantially) consist of the first system light 1001a. As schematically shown, the first beam splitter TR1 and the second beam splitter TR2 can be configured such that the first system light 1001a can include (and the first light generation device light 2001 can provide) a first luminescent material light 211 (a first portion) with a relatively larger component compared to the diffuse light 711 (a first portion). Therefore, the second system light 1001b can have a larger blue component (and thus a higher correlated color temperature) than the first system light 1001a, and the control system 300 can be configured (and is capable of) controlling the spectral power distribution of the (overall) system light 1001 by controlling the first light generation device 2000 and the second light generation device 3000.

[0176] Figure 1DAn embodiment of a light generation system 1000 is schematically depicted, which further includes a third light generation device 4000 (or "third illumination device 4000") and a fourth light generation device 5000 (or "fourth illumination device 5000"). The third light generation device 4000 is configured to generate a third light generation device light 4001. In an embodiment, the third light generation device 4000 may include a third laser group 4100 configured to generate the third light generation device light 4001. Additionally or alternatively, the third light generation device 4000 (and / or the third laser group 4100) may include one or more third solid-state light sources 30. The one or more third solid-state light sources 30 are particularly selected from a group of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. Furthermore, the fourth light generation device 5000 is configured to generate a fourth light generation device light 5001. In an embodiment, the fourth light generation device 5000 may include a fourth laser group 5100 configured to generate the fourth light generation device light 5001. Additionally or alternatively, the fourth light generating device 5000 (and / or the fourth laser group 4100) may include one or more fourth solid-state light sources 40. The one or more fourth solid-state light sources 40 are particularly selectable from a group of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. In embodiments, one of the second light generating device 3000, the third light generating device 4000, and the fourth light generating device 5000 may be configured to provide its light generating device light 3001, 4001, or 5001 to a first light-emitting material 210 via a first beam combiner device C1 (wherein, the first light-emitting material 210 may be configured to convert the light generating device light 3001, 4001, or 5001 received by the first light-emitting material 210 into first light-emitting material light 211). Figure 1D In the illustrated embodiment, the second light generating device 3000 is specifically configured to provide its second light generating device light 3001 to the first light emitting material 210 (via the seventh reflector R7 and the first beam combiner device C1). Furthermore, another of the second light generating device 3000, the third light generating device 4000, and the fourth light generating device 5000 may be configured to provide its light generating device light 3001, 4001, or 5001 to the second light emitting material 220 via the second beam combiner device C2 (wherein, the second light emitting material 220 may be configured to convert the light generating device light 3001, 4001, or 5001 received by the second light emitting material 220 into second light emitting material light 221). Figure 1DIn the illustrated embodiment, the third light generating device 4000 is specifically configured to provide its third light generating device light 4001 to the second light-emitting material 220 via (the eighth reflector R8 and the second beam combiner device C2). Furthermore, another of the second light generating device 3000, the third light generating device 4000, and the fourth light generating device 5000 may be configured to provide its light generating device light 3001, 4001, or 5001 to the diffuser device 710 via the third beam combiner device C3 (wherein, the diffuser device 710 may be configured to convert the light generating device light 3001, 4001, or 5001 received by the diffuser device 710 into diffused light 711). Figure 1D In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth light generating device 5000 may in particular be configured to provide its fourth light generating device light 5001 to the diffuser device 710 (via the ninth reflector R9 and the third beam combiner device C2). In the embodiment, the control system 300 may (therefore) be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light 1001 by controlling the first light generating device 2000, the second light generating device 3000, the third light generating device 4000, and the fourth light generating device 5000. Therefore, the system light 1001 may include a third (partial) system light 1001c generated solely by the third light generating device light 4001. Furthermore, the system light 1001 may also include a fourth (partial) system light 1001d generated solely by the fourth light generating device light 5001.

[0177] Figure 1E Another embodiment of a light generation system 1000 is schematically depicted, the system including a third light generation device 4000. In this embodiment, the first light generation device 2000 and the third light generation device 4000 can be configured to generate light generation device lights 2001 and 4001 with different spectral power distributions but the same (linear) polarization. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first light generation device light 2001 and the third light generation device light 4001 can have the same (linear) polarization but different spectral power distributions. Furthermore, as... Figure 1EAs shown, optical device 500 may include a fourth beam combiner device C4, a fifth beam combiner device C5, and a sixth beam combiner device C6. (Relative to the first and / or third light generating devices 2000 and 4000,) the fourth beam combiner C4 may be configured downstream of the first beam splitter TR1 and upstream of the first beam combiner device C1. Furthermore, the fifth beam combiner device C5 may be configured downstream of the second beam splitter TR2 and upstream of the second beam combiner device C2. Additionally or alternatively, the sixth beam combiner device C6 may be configured downstream of the third reflector R3 and upstream of the third beam combiner device C3. As previously mentioned, the light 2001 from the first light generating device may have the same polarization as the light 4001 from the third light generating device, but with different spectral power distributions. Therefore, the fourth, fifth, and sixth beam combiner devices C4, C5, and C6 may include dichroic beam combiners (or "dichroic beam combiners"). Specifically, the fourth, fifth, and sixth beam combiner devices C4, C5, and C6 can be configured to transmit the light 2001 from the first light generating device and reflect the light 4001 from the third light generating device (based on differences in spectral power distribution). Therefore, the third light generating device 4000 and the optical device 500 can be configured to provide a first portion of the light 4001 from the third light generating device to the first light-emitting material 210 via the fourth beam combiner device C4, the seventh reflector R7, and the first beam combiner device C1. Additionally or alternatively, the third light generating device 4000 and the optical device 500 can be configured to provide a second portion of the light 4001 from the third light generating device to the second light-emitting material 220 via the fifth beam combiner device C5, the eighth reflector R8, and the second beam combiner device C2. Additionally or alternatively, the third light generating device 4000 and the optical device 500 may be configured to provide a third portion of the third light generating device light 4001 to the diffuser device 710 via the sixth beam combiner device C6 (the ninth reflector R9 and the third beam combiner device C3). The first luminescent material 210 may be configured to convert at least a portion of the first portion of the third light generating device light 4001 received by the first luminescent material 210 into a third portion of the first luminescent material light 211. Similarly, the second luminescent material 220 may be configured to convert at least a portion of the second portion of the third light generating device light 4001 received by the second luminescent material 220 into a third portion of the second luminescent material light 221. Furthermore, the diffuser device 710 may be configured to diffuse at least a portion of the third portion of the third light generating device light 4001 received by the diffuser device 710 into a third portion of the diffused light 701. In embodiments (e.g., in...), Figure 1E In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 300 may be configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light 1001 by controlling the first light generating device 2000, the second light generating device 3000, and the third light generating device 4000.

[0178] Figure 2AAn embodiment of a light generation system 1000 in a reflection mode is schematically depicted. In this embodiment, the diffuser device 710 may include two polarization-maintaining diffusers 710' and 710''. Furthermore, beam combiner devices C1 and C2 disposed upstream of the luminescent materials 210 and 220 may include polarization beam combiners (or "polarization beam splitters"). Alternatively or additionally, a third beam combiner device C3 disposed upstream of the two polarization-maintaining diffusers 710' and 710'' may include two (corresponding) polarization beam combiners C31 and C32. Additionally, the light generation system 1000 may include two polarization-changing elements 810 (e.g., selected from quarter-wave plates and Faraday rotators) disposed upstream of the respective two polarization-maintaining diffusers 710' and 710'' and downstream of the respective two polarization beam combiners C31 and C32. Starting from the first light generating device 2000, a first portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device is reflected at the first beam splitter TR1, transmitted through the first beam combiner device C1, transmitted through the fourth beam combiner device C4, and incident on the first light-emitting material 210, where it is converted into the first portion of the light emitting material light 211. The first portion of the light emitting material light 211 is then reflected on the (back side) of the first light-emitting material 210 and emitted in the opposite direction to the incident beam of the first portion of the light emitting device light 2001, i.e., towards the fourth beam combiner device C4. Then, the first portion of the light emitting material light 211 is reflected at the fourth beam combiner device C4, becoming a portion of the system light 1000. Conversely, the second portion of the light from the first light-generating device 2001 is transmitted through the first beam splitter TR1, reflected at the second beam splitter TR2, transmitted through the second beam combiner device C2, transmitted through the fifth beam combiner device C5, and incident on the second light-emitting material 220, where it is converted into the first portion of the second light-emitting material light 221. The first portion of the second light-emitting material light 221 is then reflected at the back surface of the first light-emitting material 220 and emitted in the opposite direction to the incident beam of the second portion of the light from the first light-generating device 2001, i.e., towards the fifth beam combiner device C5. Then, the first portion of the second light-emitting material light 221 is reflected at the fifth beam combiner device C5 and transmitted through the fourth beam combiner C4, becoming a portion of the system light 1000. The third portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device is transmitted by the first beam splitter TR1 and the second beam splitter TR2, reflected at the third reflector R3, transmitted by the third beam combiner C3 (especially the polarization beam combiner C31), transmitted through the polarization changing element 810, and incident on the polarization maintaining diffuser 710', diffused into diffuse light 711 (the first portion). This diffuse light 711 may be reflected (and / or emitted) toward the polarization changing element 810, transmitted by the polarization changing element 810, reflected at the polarization beam combiner C31, and transmitted by the fifth and fourth beam combiner devices C5 and C4, becoming (a portion) of the system light 1000.Therefore, one or more of the following conditions may apply: (a) the first luminescent material 210 can operate in a reflective mode; (b) the second luminescent material 220 can operate in a reflective mode; and (c) the diffuser device 710 can operate in a reflective mode.

[0179] When the third portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device is transmitted through the polarization changing element 810, the polarization of the third portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device is changed. Specifically, for example, the initial p-polarized light is converted by the polarization changing element 810 into, for example, right-handed circularly polarized light, which is then converted into left-handed circularly polarized light by the polarization-maintaining diffuser 710', and then converted into s-polarized light by the polarization changing element 810 (after reflecting diffused light 711 at the polarization-maintaining diffuser 710'). Similarly, s-polarized light can be converted into diffused p-polarized light. Therefore, the third portion of the light 2001 from the first light generating device can pass through the polarization changing element 810 twice: once from the first light generating device 2000 to the polarization-maintaining diffuser 710', simultaneously possessing the first polarization; and again from the polarization-maintaining diffuser 710' to the light outlet 1500 of the light generating system 1000, where it is diffused into diffuse light 711 (the first portion) at the diffuser 710, and acquires the second polarization when passing through the polarization changing element 810 (along the direction of the light outlet 1500). Therefore, the polarization combiner C31 can be configured to transmit light with the first polarization (corresponding to the polarization of the light 2001 from the first light generating device) and reflect light with orthogonal polarization (corresponding to the polarization of the diffuse light 711). Furthermore, the fourth combiner device C4 (when viewed from the first light generating device 2000) can be configured in the optical path between the first combiner device C1 and the first luminescent material 210, and is located downstream of the fifth combiner device C5. Furthermore, the fifth beam combiner device C5 can be configured in the optical path between the second beam combiner device C2 and the second light-emitting material 220, and is located in the optical path between the diffuser device 710 and the fourth beam combiner device C4. The optical device 500 may also include a twelfth reflector R12. The twelfth reflector R12 (see [reference needed] when viewed from the second light-generating device 3000) Figure 2B The second beam combiner device 3000 can be configured downstream of the first beam combiner device C1 and the second beam combiner device C2, and upstream of the third beam combiner device C3. Therefore, the second light generating device 3000 can be configured upstream of one or more (e.g., all) of the first beam combiner device C1, the second beam combiner device C2, and the third beam combiner device C3. Furthermore, as... Figure 2A As shown, the first luminescent material light 211, the second luminescent material light 221, and the diffused light 711 can be combined in (and / or at) the fourth beam combiner device C4 (and directed to the light outlet 1500 of the light generation system 1000). Therefore, the fourth beam combiner device C4 can constitute the main beam combiner device 590. That is, the main beam combiner device 590 may include the fourth beam combiner device C4.

[0180] Figure 2B An embodiment of the light generation system 1000 (operating mode) is schematically depicted, wherein the second light generation device 3000 provides the second light generation device light 3001, and the first light generation device 2000 is configured to be off (by the control system 300). Therefore, the system light source 1001 may (substantially) consist of the second system light 1001b.

[0181] Figure 2C An embodiment of a light generation system 1000 (operating mode) is schematically depicted, wherein a second light generation device 3000 provides second light generation device light 3001, and a first light generation device 2000 provides first light generation device light 2001. Therefore, the system light 1001 may include a first system light 1001a and a second system light 1001b.

[0182] Figures 3A-3CAn embodiment of a light generation system 1000 configured to generate system light 1001 is schematically depicted, wherein the light generation system 1000 includes a first light generation device 2000, a second light generation device 3000, a first light-emitting material 210, a second light-emitting material 220, a diffuser device 710, a control system 300, and optical components 500. The optical components 500 may include a first reflector optics M1, a second reflector optics M2, a third reflector R3, and a main beam combiner device 590. Furthermore, the optical components also include a fourth beam combiner device C4, a fifth beam combiner device C5, and a third beam combiner device C3. The first light generation device 2000 and the second light generation device 3000 may be the same as those defined above. However, here, the first light generating device 2000 and the optical device 500 are configured to: (i) provide a first portion of the light from the first light generating device 2001 to the first light emitting material 210 through the first reflector optical device M1 and the fourth beam combiner device C4; (ii) provide a second portion of the light from the first light generating device 2001 to the second light emitting material 220 through the second reflector optical device M2 and the fifth beam combiner device C5; and (iii) provide a third portion of the light from the first light generating device 2001 to the diffuser device 710 through the third reflector R3 and the third beam combiner device C3, wherein the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion, the second portion and the third portion of the light from the first light generating device 2001 is fixed. Furthermore, the first light generating device 2000 and the optical device 500 can be configured such that: (i) one of the mirror optics M1 and M2 is positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiners C4, C5, and C3, and (ii) the other mirror optics M1 and M2 are positioned upstream of all three beam combiners C4, C5, and C3. Furthermore, the second light generating device 3000 and the optical device 500 can be configured to provide one or more of the following: (i) providing a first portion of the light from the second light generating device 3001 to the first light-emitting material 210 via the first mirror optics M1 (and the fourth beam combiner C4); (ii) providing a second portion of the light from the second light generating device 3001 to the second light-emitting material 220 via the second mirror optics M2 and the fifth beam combiner C5; and (iii) providing a third portion of the light from the second light generating device 3001 to the diffuser 710 via the third beam combiner device C3. Figures 3A-3CIn this embodiment, the second light generating device 3000 and the optics 500 are specifically configured to provide all of the light from the second light generating device 3001 to the first light-emitting material 210 via the first reflecting mirror optics M1 and the fourth beam combiner C4, although other options are also possible. This is possible, as described above. In the embodiment, the first light-emitting material 210, the second light-emitting material 220, the diffuser device 710, and the main beam combiner device 590 can be configured to operate in the manner described above (particularly the reflection mode described above).

[0183] like Figures 3A-3C As shown, the fourth beam combiner device C4 is disposed in the optical path between the first mirror optics M1 and the first light-emitting material 210, and is disposed downstream of the fifth beam combiner device C5. Furthermore, the fifth beam combiner device C5 is disposed in the optical path between the second mirror optics M2 and the second light-emitting material 220, and is disposed in the optical path between the diffuser device 710 and the fourth beam combiner device C4. In this embodiment, the mirror optics M1 and M2 disposed upstream of the light-emitting materials 210 and 220 may each include one or more of a polarization beam combiner and a dichroic beam combiner. Therefore, the mirror optics M1 and M2 can be configured to split the first light-generating device light 2001 based on one (or more) of wavelength and / or polarization. Furthermore, the mirror optics M1 and M2 can be configured to transmit a portion of the first light-generating device light 2001 based on one (or more) of wavelength and polarization. In an embodiment, the mirror optics M1 and M2 may also be configured to transmit the second light generating device light 3001, the third light generating device light 4001, and the fourth light generating device light 5001 based on one (or more) of wavelength and polarization. Therefore, the first mirror optics M1 is configured to combine the second light generating device light 3001 with the first light generating device light 2001 (a first portion), while the second mirror optics M2 is configured to combine the third light generating device light 4001 with the first light generating device light 2001 (a second portion).

[0184] Figure 3A An embodiment of the light generation system 1000 (operating mode) is schematically depicted, wherein a first light generation device 2000 provides a first light generation device light 2001, while the second, third, and fourth light generation devices 3000, 4000, and 5000 are configured to be off (by the control system 300). Therefore, the system light 1001 may (substantially) consist of the first system light 1001a. Furthermore, here, the first light generation device 2000 is configured to provide its first light generation device light 2001 to the polarization-maintaining diffuser 710'' via a polarization combiner C32.

[0185] Figure 3CAn embodiment of the light generation system 1000 (operating mode) is schematically depicted, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth light generation devices 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 (all) provide their respective light generation device lights 2001, 3001, 4001, and 5001. Therefore, the system light 1001 may include a first system light 1001a, a second system light 1001b, a third system light 1001c, and a fourth system light 1001b.

[0186] The simulation of providing system light for a 3000K CCT using red phosphors, green phosphors, and blue light through a diffuser was achieved by blue light pumping of the red and green phosphors and setting the diffuser device to a power-based ratio of 82:51:7.8. For a 4000K CCT, this ratio is 61:62:13.7; for a 6000K CCT, it is 47:71:23; and for a 7000K CCT, it is 35:67:27. Blue light pumping can be achieved using one or more of a first and a second light generating device and by adjusting the relative radiant flux of the light from the first and second light generating devices.

[0187] Referring to Figures 1-3, specifically, the (first) ratio of the (radiative flux) of the first, second, and third portions of the light from the first light generating device can be fixed. Referring to Figures 1a, 1b, 1c, 1e, 2a, 2b, and 2c, the (second) ratio of the radiative flux of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the light from the second light generating device is shown.

[0188] Referring to Figures 1d, 3a, 3b, and 3c, the ratio of the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device to that from the third light generating device can be fixed. However, in these embodiments, alternatively, the ratio of the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device to that from the third light generating device can be fixed and controllable. Furthermore, referring to these figures, the second light generating device and the optics can be configured such that only one (or optionally both, but particularly one) of the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device can receive the light from the second light generating device. Similarly, this can also be applied to the third and fourth light generating devices. In the illustrative embodiments of Figures 1d, 3a, 3b, and 3c, the first light generating device irradiates the first luminescent material, the second light generating device irradiates the second luminescent material, and the third light generating device irradiates the diffuser device. However, other embodiments may also be employed.

[0189] Please note that in Figures 1a, 1b, 1c, 1e, 2a, 2b, and 2c, the radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device can be distributed as a first radiant flux, a second radiant flux, and a third radiant flux; while in Figures 1d, 3a, 3b, and 3c, the light from the second light generating device propagates essentially only to the first light-emitting material (therefore, the second radiant flux and the third radiant flux of the light from the second light generating device are essentially zero).

[0190] Furthermore, note that in Figures 1a, 1b, 1c, 1e, 2a, 2b, and 2c, the second portion of the light from the first luminescent material, the second portion of the light from the second luminescent material, and the second portion of the diffuse light can be combined in the main beam combiner device to form a second (partial) system light; while in Figures 1d, 3a, 3b, and 3c, the second (partial) system light received by the main beam combiner device can be substantially composed of the light from the first luminescent material (or "the second portion of the light from the first luminescent material"). Similarly, in Figures 1d, 3a, 3b, and 3c, the third (partial) system light received by the main beam combiner device can be substantially composed of the light from the second luminescent material (or "the third portion of the light from the second luminescent material"). However, similarly, in Figures 1d, 3a, 3b, and 3c, the fourth (partial) system light received by the main beam combiner device can be substantially composed of diffuse light (or "the fourth portion of the diffuse light"). Therefore, in these Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the light from the second light-generating device (through the optical device) is directed to only one of the first light-emitting material, the second light-emitting material and the diffuser device, but this direction is different from that directed by the third light-generating device and the fourth light-generating device.

[0191] When the ratio of radiative flux is fixed, this may refer to an operating mode in which the radiative flux defining that ratio will be or substantially cannot be changed by the control system.

[0192] Therefore, whether the first luminescent material, the second luminescent material, and the diffuser device receive light from the first light generating device and / or the second light generating device, and / or optionally the third light generating device and / or the fourth light generating device, may depend on the control system and may depend on the selection of optical devices.

[0193] Figure 4 An embodiment of a luminaire 2 is schematically depicted, which includes the light generating system 1000 as described above. Reference numeral 301 indicates a user interface that may be functionally coupled to a control system 300, which is included in or functionally coupled to the light generating system 1000. Figure 4An embodiment of a lamp 1 including a light generating system 1000 is also schematically depicted. Reference numeral 3 indicates a projector device or projector system, which can be used, for example, to project images onto a wall, and may also include the light generating system 1000. Therefore, Figure 4 A group selected from lamps 1, luminaires 2, and projector devices 3, including the light generating system 1000 described herein, is schematically depicted. In embodiments, such a lighting device 1200 may be lamp 1, luminaire 2, projector device 3, disinfection device, or optical wireless communication device. Lighting light emanating from the lighting device 1200 is indicated by reference numeral 1201. Lighting light 1201 may consist substantially of system light 1001, and therefore may be system light 1001 in specific embodiments. Reference numeral 1300 refers to a space, such as a room. Reference numeral 1305 refers to a floor and reference numeral 1310 refers to a ceiling; reference numeral 1307 refers to a wall.

[0194] The term "a plurality of" refers to two or more. The terms "substantially" or "essentially," and similar terms, will be understood by those skilled in the art. The term "substantially" or "essentially" may also include embodiments with terms such as "completely," "entirely," "all," etc. Therefore, in embodiments, the adjective "substantially" or "essentially" may also be removed. Where applicable, the term "substantially" or "essentially" may also refer to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%.

[0195] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments that "consist of". The term "and / or" specifically refers to one or more items mentioned before or after "and / or". For example, the phrase "item 1 and / or item 2" and similar phrases may refer to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" in one embodiment may mean "consisting of", but in another embodiment it may also mean "comprising at least the defined kinds, and optionally including one or more other kinds".

[0196] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., used in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe an order or chronological sequence. It should be understood that these terms can be used interchangeably where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in a different order than that shown herein.

[0197] The equipment, apparatus, or system described herein may be used during operation. Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to the method of operation, or the equipment, apparatus, or system in operation.

[0198] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative and not limiting of the invention, and those skilled in the art will be able to devise many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Any reference numerals placed between parentheses in the claims should not be construed as limiting the claims.

[0199] In the claims, any reference symbols enclosed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims.

[0200] The use of the verb "comprising" and its variations does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps not listed in the claims. Unless the context explicitly requires otherwise, the words "comprising," "including," etc., in the specification and claims should be interpreted as inclusive rather than exclusive or exhaustive; that is, they should be interpreted as "including but not limited to."

[0201] The article "one" or "a" preceding an element does not preclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0202] This invention can be implemented by hardware comprising multiple different elements and a suitably programmed computer. In the device, apparatus, or system claims listing various means, several means can be implemented by the same hardware. The fact that certain measures are described in mutually different dependent claims does not mean that these measures cannot be effectively combined. In another aspect, this invention provides a software product that, when run on a computer, enables the implementation of (one or more embodiments) of the methods described herein.

[0203] The present invention also provides a control system that can control a device, apparatus, or system, or perform the methods or processes described herein. Furthermore, the present invention provides a computer program product that, when functionally coupled to or executed on a computer included in a device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system.

[0204] The present invention is also applicable to devices, apparatuses, or systems that include one or more characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings. The present invention also relates to methods or processes that include one or more characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the drawings.

[0205] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and more than two embodiments can be combined. Additionally, some features can form the basis of one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. A light generating system (1000) configured to generate system light (1001), wherein the light generating system (1000) includes a first light generating device (2000), a second light generating device (3000), a first luminescent material (210), a second luminescent material (220), a diffuser device (710), a control system (300), and optical components (500); wherein: - The optical device (500) includes a first beam splitter (TR1), a second beam splitter (TR2), a first beam combiner device (C1), a second beam combiner device (C2), a third beam combiner device (C3), and a main beam combiner device (590). - The first light generating device (2000) is configured to generate first light generating device light (2001); wherein the first light generating device (2000) includes one or more first solid-state light sources (10) selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. - The first light generating device (2000) and the optical device (500) are configured to: (i) provide a first portion of the light from the first light generating device (2001) to the first light emitting material (210) via the first beam splitter (TR1) and the first beam combiner device (C1); (ii) provide a second portion of the light from the first light generating device (2001) to the second light emitting material (220) via the second beam splitter (TR2) and the second beam combiner device (C2); and (iii) provide a third portion of the light from the first light generating device (2001) to the diffuser device (710) via the third beam combiner device (C3), wherein the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the light from the first light generating device (2001) is fixed; - The first light generating device (2000) and the optical device (500) are configured such that: (i) one of the beam splitters (TR1, TR2) is positioned upstream of two of the three beam combiners (C1, C2, C3), and (ii) the other of the beam splitters (TR1, TR2) is positioned upstream of all three beam combiners (C1, C2, C3); - The second light generating device (3000) is configured to generate second light generating device light (3001); wherein the second light generating device (3000) includes one or more second solid-state light sources (20) selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. - The second light generating device (3000) and the optical device (500) are configured to: (i) provide a first portion of the light from the second light generating device (3001) to the first light emitting material (210) via the first beam combiner device (C1); (ii) provide a second portion of the light from the second light generating device (3001) to the second light emitting material (220) via the second beam combiner device (C2); and (iii) provide a third portion of the light from the second light generating device (3001) to the diffuser device (710) via the third beam combiner device (C3). - The first light-emitting material (210) is configured to convert at least a portion of (a) the light from the first light-generating device (2001) received by the first light-emitting material (210) and (b) at least a portion of the light from the second light-generating device (3001) received by the first light-emitting material (210) into light from the first light-emitting material (211). - The second light-emitting material (220) is configured to convert at least a portion of (a) the light from the first light-generating device (2001) received by the second light-emitting material (220) and (b) at least a portion of the light from the second light-generating device (3001) received by the second light-emitting material (220) into second light-emitting material light (221). - The diffuser device (710) is configured to diffuse (a) at least a portion of the first light generating device light (2001) received by the diffuser device (710) and (b) at least a portion of the second light generating device light (3001) received by the diffuser device (710) into diffuse light (711). - The main beam combiner device (590) is disposed downstream of the first luminescent material (210), the second luminescent material (220), and the diffuser device (710), and is configured to provide a beam of system light (1001) comprising one or more of the first luminescent material light (211), the second luminescent material light (221), and the diffuse light (711); wherein the system light (1001) comprises one or more of the following: (i) a first system light (1001a) generated solely by the first light generating device light (2001) and (ii) a second system light (1001b) generated solely by the second light generating device light (3001); wherein the first system light (1001a) is white light, and wherein, in one or more operating modes of the light generating system (1000), the spectral power distribution of the second system light (1001b) is different from the spectral power distribution of the first system light (1001a); and - The control system (300) is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light (1001) by controlling the first light generating device (2000) and the second light generating device (3000).

2. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the first beam splitter (TR1) and the second beam splitter (TR2) are transparent specular mirrors, and wherein the system light (1001) has a correlated color temperature selected from the range of 1500K to 20000K, and has a variable correlated color temperature of at least 2000K.

3. The light generation system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first light generation device (2000) includes a first laser group (2100) configured to generate first light generation device light (2001), and wherein the second light generation device (3000) includes a second laser group (3100) configured to generate second light generation device light (3001).

4. The light generation system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first light generation device (2000) and the second light generation device (3000) are configured to generate light (2001, 3001) of the light generation device having different polarizations, and wherein the first beam combiner device (C1), the second beam combiner device (C2) and the third beam combiner device (C3) include polarization beam combiners.

5. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first light generating device light (2001) has a first centroid wavelength (λc1), and wherein the second light generating device light (3001) has a second centroid wavelength (λc2), wherein And wherein the first bundle combiner device (C1), the second bundle combiner device (C2) and the third bundle combiner device (C3) include a dichroic bundle combiner.

6. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical device (500) includes a third reflector (R3); wherein the third reflector (R3) is configured downstream of (i) the two beam splitters (TR1, TR2) and (ii) upstream of one of the beam combiner devices (C1, C2, C3).

7. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the light generating system (1000) further comprises a fourth beam splitter (TR4) and a fifth beam splitter (TR5); and wherein the second light generating device (3000) and the optical device (500) are configured such that (i) one of the beam splitters (TR4, TR5) is disposed upstream of two of the three beam combiner devices (C1, C2, C3), and (ii) the other of the beam splitters (TR4, TR5) is disposed upstream of all three beam combiner devices (C1, C2, C3).

8. The light generation system (1000) according to claim 7, wherein the ratio of the radiant flux of the first portion of the second light generation device light (3001), the second portion of the second light generation device light (3001), and the third portion of the second light generation device light (3001) is fixed, and wherein the fourth beam splitter (TR4) and the fifth beam splitter (TR5) are selected from semi-transparent mirrors.

9. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the optical device (500) includes a sixth reflector (R6); wherein the sixth reflector (R6) is configured downstream of (i) the two beam splitters (TR4, TR5) and upstream of one of the beam combiner devices (C1, C2, C3).

10. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 further comprises a third light generating device (4000), wherein: - The third light generating device (4000) is configured to generate third light generating device light (4001); wherein the third light generating device (4000) includes one or more third solid-state light sources (30) selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. - The optical device (500) includes a fourth beam combiner device (C4), a fifth beam combiner device (C5) and a sixth beam combiner device (C6). - The third light generating device (4000) and the optical device (500) are configured to (i) provide a first portion of the light from the third light generating device (4001) to the first light-emitting material (210) via the fourth beam combiner device (C4), (ii) provide a second portion of the light from the third light generating device (4001) to the second light-emitting material (220) via the fifth beam combiner device (C5), and (iii) provide a third portion of the light from the third light generating device (4001) to the diffuser device (710) via the sixth beam combiner device (C6). - The first luminescent material (210) is configured to convert at least a portion of the first portion of the light from the third light generating device (4001) received by the first luminescent material (210) into first luminescent material light (211). - The second luminescent material (220) is configured to convert at least a portion of the second portion of the light from the third light generating device (4001) received by the second luminescent material (220) into light from the second luminescent material (221). - The diffuser device (710) is configured to diffuse at least a portion of the third portion of the third light generating device light (4001) received by the diffuser device (710) into diffuse light (711); and The control system (300) is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light (1001) by controlling the first light generating device (2000), the second light generating device (3000) and the third light generating device (4000).

11. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 further comprises a third light generating device (4000) and a fourth light generating device (5000), wherein: - The third light generating device (4000) is configured to generate third light generating device light (4001); wherein the third light generating device (4000) includes one or more third solid-state light sources (30) selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. - The fourth light generating device (5000) is configured to generate fourth light generating device light (5001); wherein the fourth light generating device (5000) includes one or more fourth solid-state light sources (40) selected from the group consisting of solid-state lasers and superluminescent diodes. - (i) one of the second light generating device (3000), the third light generating device (4000), and the fourth light generating device (5000) is configured to provide its light generating device light (3001, 4001, 5001) to the first light-emitting material (210) via the first beam combiner device (C1); (ii) the other of the second light generating device (3000), the third light generating device (4000), and the fourth light generating device (5000) is configured to provide its light generating device light (3001, 4001, 5001) to the first light-emitting material (210) via the first beam combiner device (C1). The second beam combiner device (C2) provides its light-generating device light (3001, 4001, 5001) to the second light-emitting material (220), and (iii) another of the second light-generating device (3000), the third light-generating device (4000), and the fourth light-generating device (5000) is configured to provide its light-generating device light (3001, 4001, 5001) to the diffuser device (710) via the third beam combiner device (C3); and - The control system (300) is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light (1001) by controlling the first light generating device (2000), the second light generating device (3000), the third light generating device (4000) and the fourth light generating device (5000).

12. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 10, wherein: - The first light generating device (2000) and the third light generating device (4000) are configured to generate light (2001, 4001) from the light generating devices that have different spectral power distributions but the same polarization. - The fourth beam combiner device (C4) is disposed downstream of the first beam splitter (TR1) and upstream of the first beam combiner device (C1); the fifth beam combiner device (C5) is disposed downstream of the second beam splitter (TR2) and upstream of the second beam combiner device (C2); and the sixth beam combiner device (C6) is disposed downstream of the third reflector (R3) and upstream of the third beam combiner device (C3); and - The fourth bundle combiner device (C4), the fifth bundle combiner device (C5) and the sixth bundle combiner device (C6) include a dichroic bundle combiner.

13. The light generation system (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and claim 4, wherein: - The following conditions apply: (a) the first luminescent material (210) operates in the reflection mode, (b) the second luminescent material (220) operates in the reflection mode, and (c) the diffuser device (710) operates in the reflection mode; - The diffuser device (710) includes two polarization-maintaining diffusers (710', 710”). - The beam combiner devices (C1, C2) disposed upstream of the luminescent materials (210, 220) include polarization beam combiners, and the third beam combiner device (C3) disposed upstream of the two polarization-maintaining diffusers (710', 710") includes two polarization beam combiners (C31, C32). - The light generation system (1000) further includes two polarization changing elements (810), which are configured upstream of the corresponding two polarization maintaining diffusers (710', 710") and downstream of the corresponding two polarization combiners (C31, C32). - The light generation system (1000) further includes a fourth beam combiner device (C4) and a fifth beam combiner device (C5), wherein: - The fourth beam combiner device (C4) is disposed in the optical path between the first beam combiner device (C1) and the first light-emitting material (210), and is disposed downstream of the fifth beam combiner device (C5); - The fifth beam combiner device (C5) is disposed in the optical path between the second beam combiner device (C2) and the second light-emitting material (220), and is disposed in the optical path between the diffuser device (710) and the fourth beam combiner device (C4); - The optical device (500) includes a twelfth reflector (R12); wherein the twelfth reflector (R12) is configured to (i) be downstream of both the first beam combiner (C1) and the second beam combiner (C2), and (ii) be upstream of the third beam combiner device (C3); - The second light generating device (3000) is disposed upstream of one or more of the first beam combiner (C1), the second beam combiner (C2), and the third beam combiner device (C3); and - The main bundle combiner device (590) includes the fourth bundle combiner device (C4).

14. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 13, wherein the second light generating device (3000) is configured upstream of the first combiner (C1), the second combiner (C2) and the third combiner device (C3).

15. A lighting device (1200) selected from the group consisting of lamps (1), luminaires (2), and projection devices (3), said lighting device (1200) comprising the light generating system (1000) of any one of the preceding claims.

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