Light tube
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SIGNIFY HOLDING BV
- Filing Date
- 2024-08-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-24
AI Technical Summary
Existing light generating systems are limited in independently controlling lighting parameters such as beam direction and optical properties, and often require complex software or driver adjustments to change lighting settings.
A light generating system comprising a tubular light generating device, a tubular optical element, and a device support, where the tubular housing extends along a rotation axis and includes a light exit window, and the tubular optical element encloses the housing, allowing for independent control of beam direction and optical properties through rotational adjustments.
Enables precise tuning of spectral properties and control over beam angle and direction, facilitating high-fidelity configuration settings for lighting applications with improved ease of use compared to prior art systems.
Smart Images
Figure EP2024072116_20022025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Light Tube
[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The invention relates to a light generating system. The invention further relates to a lighting device.
[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Light generating systems are known in the art. US2020191358A1 describes an elongated lighting apparatus including an elongated housing and one or more elongated light sources. The elongated light sources are inside the housing. Each elongated light source is coupled with at least one elongated lens on the housing. There is a means mounted on the housing for adjusting the direction, or the beam angle, or both, of the light emitted out of the at least one elongated lens. The at least one elongated lens and the elongated housing may be coated with an anti-bacterial photocatalytic film that can be activated by visible light.
[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is desired to have a high brightness lighting device for (general) lighting applications tunable in the broad range of color space / CCTs with good color rendering. Furthermore, it is desired to control other spectral properties of the light provided by such a device such as the beam angle, the beam direction, selectivity in wavelength of light, etc. Particularly, it is desired to have high fidelity in configuration settings that facilitate precise tuning of the spectral properties of the outcoupled light.
[0008] Prior art systems may be restricted in independently varying lighting parameters. For instance, a beam direction and optical property of the beam light, e.g., a beam distribution, may not be independently controlled.
[0009] Further, it may be relatively complex to change or tweak lighting parameters in prior art systems. For instance, changes may need to be made on a software or driver level.
[0010] Hence, it is an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative light generating system, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of above-described drawbacks. The present invention may have as object to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative. The present invention is set out in the appended independent claims and corresponding dependent claims.
[0011] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a light generating system configured to generate system light. In embodiments, the light generating system may comprise a tubular light generating device, a tubular optical element, and a device support. The device support may in embodiments be configured to support one or more of (i) the tubular light generating device and (ii) the tubular optical element. Especially, the tubular light generating device may comprise a tubular housing extending along a rotation axis (RA). Further, in embodiments, the tubular housing may comprise a wall element comprising a wall portion and a light exit window. Furthermore, in embodiments, the tubular housing may define a device compartment. In embodiments, the light generating device may comprise one or more solid state light sources (configured to emit light source light). Especially, the one or more solid state light sources may be configured in the device compartment. Note that the light exit window may especially be transmissive for the light source light. In embodiments, the light exit window may extend, in a first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA), over a housing opening angle (a) defined relative to the rotation axis (RA). Additionally, in embodiments, the device support and the tubular housing may be configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis (RA) over a tubular device rotation angle (9). In embodiments, the tubular optical element may at least partly enclose the tubular housing. Further, the tubular housing and the tubular optical element may in embodiments be configured rotatable relative to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over a tubular optical element rotation angle (P). Furthermore, the device support and the tubular optical element may in embodiments be configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis (RA) over a tubular device rotation angle (y). In further embodiments, the tubular optical element may comprise n optical element parts radially arranged around (i.e., “arranged about” or “arranged around”) the rotation axis (RA). In further embodiments, the n optical element parts may have different optical properties with respect to the light source light. In embodiments, n may be at least 2, such as at least 3, especially at least 4. In embodiments, in a first operational mode of the light generating system, the system light may comprise at least part of the light source light transmitted by (a) the light-transmissive light exit window, and (b) one or more of the n optical element parts. Especially, one or more system light optical properties are controllable by controlling the tubular device rotation angle (9) and the tubular optical element rotation angle (P). Especially, at least one of the n optical element parts has an optical property varying along the rotation axis (RA), AND / OR wherein the tubular optical element comprises a plurality of optical segments along the rotation axis (RA), wherein the optical segments are rotatable relative to one another.
[0012] Hence, in specific embodiments, the invention provides a light generating system, configured to generate system light, wherein the light generating system comprises a tubular light generating device, a tubular optical element, and a device support, wherein: (I) the device support is configured to support one or more of (i) the tubular light generating device and (ii) the tubular optical element, (II) the tubular light generating device comprises a (i) tubular housing extending along a rotation axis (RA), wherein the tubular housing comprises a light exit window, wherein the tubular housing defines a device compartment, and (ii) one or more solid state light sources configured to emit light source light, wherein the one or more solid state light sources are configured in the device compartment, wherein the light exit window is transmissive for the light source light, and wherein the light exit window extends in a first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA) over a housing opening angle (a) defined relative to the rotation axis (RA), (III) the device support and the tubular housing are configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis (RA) over a tubular device rotation angle (9), (IV) the tubular optical element at least partly encloses the tubular housing, wherein the tubular housing and the tubular optical element are configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over a tubular optical element rotation angle (P), wherein the tubular optical element comprises n optical element parts having different optical properties with respect to the light source light, wherein n > 2, and (V) in a first operational mode of the light generating system, the system light comprises at least part of the light source light transmitted by (a) the light-transmissive light exit window, and (b) one or more of the n optical element parts, and wherein one or more system light optical properties are controllable by controlling the tubular device rotation angle (9) and the tubular optical element rotation angle (P).
[0013] With such a light generating system, first, the direction in which the beam of system light is provided may be controlled by rotating one or more of (i) the tubular optical element, (ii) the tubular housing, and (iii) the one or more light sources relative to the device support. Further, the optical property of the light source light may be controlled (especially modified) by means of the tubular optical element. Especially, the tubular optical element (comprising a plurality of optical element parts) may be rotated relative to the device support (and / or the tubular housing) to alter the optical property of outcoupled light source light. Furthermore, the tubular optical element may also be translated in a direction along the rotation axis (RA). Hence, with such a system, the optical property of the outcoupled system light may be tuned or controlled to a high degree of fidelity. In particular, the system may facilitate setting or changing a desired optical property with relative ease by rotating system elements relative to one another. Furthermore, the tubular optical element may especially comprise one or more optical element parts. Especially, different optical element parts may have different optical property with regards to the light source light. Hence, in this way, in one or more operational modes, the spectral properties of the outcoupled system light may be controlled. Especially, the beam angle, the beam direction, the color rendering index, the wavelength, the extent of diffraction, etc. of the outcoupled system light may be controlled.
[0014] As mentioned above, in embodiments, the invention provides a light generating system configured to generate system light. In embodiments, the light generating system may comprise (i) a tubular light generating device, (ii) a tubular optical element, and (iii) a device support. Here below, aspects and features of the invention are described followed by some embodiments.
[0015] The device support may in embodiments be configured to support at least a part of the light generating system. In embodiments, the device support may be configured to support the tubular light generating device. Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, the device support may be configured to support the tubular optical element. In further embodiments, the device support may be configured to support (both) the tubular light generating device and the tubular optical element. Note that the tubular light generating device may especially be elongated and may have two ends. Likewise, the tubular optical element may in embodiments be elongated and may have two ends. The device support may in embodiments support the tubular light generating device (and / or the tubular optical element) from one end or from both ends. Further, in embodiments, the device support may facilitate physically securing the light generating system (comprising the tubular light generating device and the tubular optical element) to an object, such as to a wall, a ceiling, a floor, a table, etc. Here, physically securing a first element to a second element refers to attaching the first element to the second element such that there may be essentially no relative motion between the first element and the second element, e.g., between the device support and a wall. In embodiments, the device support may facilitate the movement of one or more of the tubular light generating device and the tubular optical element relative to the device support. Furthermore, the device support may especially (also) facilitate the movement of the tubular light generating device relative to the tubular optical element.
[0016] In embodiments, the light generating device may comprise one or more light sources configured to generate light source light. In embodiments, any light source (that may be configured in the device compartment) may be used to generate light source light. In further embodiments, the light generating system may especially comprise solid state light sources. The choice of light sources that may be configured in embodiments of the light generating system are described further below. The invention further on in embodiments may for explanatory purposes be described in terms of solid state light sources. However, it will be apparent to the skilled person that in further embodiments other light sources (i.e., light sources other than solid state light sources) may also be configured.
[0017] In embodiments, the light source light may be outcoupled (from the tubular light generating device) via the tubular housing. The tubular optical element may in embodiments comprise a light transmissive opening (or a gap) via which light source light may escape unaltered. This feature (i.e., the opening or gap) comprised by the tubular optical element is discussed further below. In further embodiments, the tubular housing may facilitate primary alterations to the spectral properties of the light source light. Further, in embodiments, the light source light outcoupled via the tubular housing may (then) be outcoupled via the tubular optical element. Especially, the tubular optical element may facilitate secondary alterations to the spectral properties of the light source light outcoupled (from the tubular housing) via the tubular optical element. Especially, the system light may comprise light source light (outcoupled via the tubular optical element and the tubular housing). “Facilitating an alteration to spectral properties of (light source) light” may refer to providing a variation for example in color, intensity, collimation, diffusivity, etc.
[0018] In embodiments, the tubular housing may enclose (at least a part of) the tubular light generating device. A rotation axis (RA) may be defined passing through the tubular housing, especially passing through the ends of the tubular housing. In embodiments, the tubular housing may be elongated. Especially, the tubular housing may be elongated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA). In embodiments, the tubular housing may be defined by a tubular housing wall. In further embodiments, the tubular housing may (also) comprise two tubular housing wall ends. Further, the tubular housing wall may in embodiments comprise or define a light exit window (defined along the rotation axis (RA)). Especially, the light exit window may be light transmissive for the light source light.
[0019] The term “light transmissive” refers to the optical property of a medium to be transmissive for light incident on said medium. Especially, the medium may transmit 90% or more, such as 95% or more, especially 99% or more, even more especially 99.5% or more, including 100%, of the light, such as the light source light, incident on the medium. In some embodiments, the tubular housing may extend within the device support. In such embodiments, the device support may be configured light transmissive or opaque (see below) for the light source light, especially light transmissive, or especially opaque. Hence, in some embodiments, light source light may escape via a part of the device support. Alternatively, in embodiments, one or more of (i) a part of the tubular housing (configured within the device support) and (ii) the device support may be opaque for the light source light. Further, in embodiments, (only) a part of the tubular housing may be transmissive for light source light, especially the part of the tubular housing configured outside the device support may be transmissive for light source light.
[0020] In further embodiments, the tubular housing (especially the tubular housing wall) may comprise a wall element (defined along the rotation axis (RA)). In embodiments, the wall element may comprise a wall portion and the light exit window. In embodiments, the wall portion may have different optical properties relative to the light source light as compared to the light exit window. In some embodiments, the wall portion may be less transmissive for light source light as compared to the light exit window. For example, in embodiments, the light source light outcoupled from the (light transmissive) light exit window may be used for illumination, while simultaneously, the light source light outcoupled from the (relatively less light transmissive) wall portion may provide diffuse backlighting. In further embodiments, the wall portion may especially be opaque (i.e., the wall portion may transmit 1% or less of the light source light, especially the wall portion may be (effectively) impermeable for light source light). Hence, in such embodiments, only a part of the tubular housing, especially only a part of the tubular housing wall, (more especially the light exit window), may be light transmissive. More especially, (only) the light exit window may be transmissive for light source light (i.e., the light exit window may transmit 90% or more of the light source light). Note also that, in some embodiments, a part of the two tubular housing wall ends may (also) be light transmissive. However, in other embodiments, the two tubular housing wall ends may (also) not be light transmissive.
[0021] In embodiments, the tubular light generating device, especially the tubular housing, may have a cylindrical geometry. Note that the term “cylindrical” refers to three- dimensional objects defined by two parallel (circular) faces at a fixed distance (between the two faces) and connected by a third face. Especially, the tubular housing may have a right circular cylindrical geometry (i.e., the tubular housing may be shaped as a right cylinder). A right circular cylindrical geometry has a closed circular surface having two parallel faces defined at a fixed distance (between the two faces). The rotation axis (RA) may especially pass through the center of the two parallel faces. Alternatively, in embodiments, the tubular light generating device may have a (right) prism-like geometry i.e., a shape selected from the group of a (right) triangular prism, a (right) rectangular prism, a (right) pentagonal prism, a (right) hexagonal prism and (other) (right) polygonal prisms. The prism-like geometry may especially be selected from the group of right regular prisms.
[0022] In embodiments, the light exit window may be configured along the direction of the rotation axis (RA) and may span the length of the tubular housing. Alternatively, in embodiments, the light exit window may also not be configured along the entire length of the tubular housing (but only along a part of the length of the tubular housing). Especially, the light exit window may (also) have a length smaller than the length of the tubular housing. In embodiments, the light exit window may have a length LEI and the tubular housing may have a length Li. Especially, LEI < 0.9*Li, such as LEI < 0.7*Li, especially LEI < 0.5*Li, more especially LEI < 0.3*Li. Of course, it may also apply that LEI=LI. For instance, the light exit window may be configured in the middle of the tubular housing, or closer to one end of the tubular housing as compared to the other. Yet further, in embodiments, the tubular housing may (also) comprise a plurality of light exit windows configured at different positions along the length of the tubular housing.
[0023] Further, in a first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA), the light exit window (defined on the tubular housing wall) may especially extend over a housing opening angle (a) defined relative to the rotation axis (RA). The angle (a) may especially be defined (in the first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) as the angle formed between two planes passing through (and parallel to) the rotation axis (RA) and passing through the ends (i.e., the two ends or edges of the light exit window in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) of the light exit window. Especially, the housing opening angle (a) may be selected from the range of 10-225°, such as from the range of 45-180°, especially from the range of 90-175°. Furthermore, in embodiments, the housing opening angle (a) may be at least 30°, such as at least 60°, especially at least 90°, more especially at least 120°, such as at least 150°. Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, the housing opening angle (a) may be at most 270°, such as at most 240°, especially at most 210°, more especially at most 180°. In yet further embodiments, the housing opening (a) may be defined to be a proper divisor of 360°. For instance, in embodiments, the housing opening angle (a) may be selected from the group comprising 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 72°, 90°, 120° and 180°. In further embodiments, the housing opening angle (a) may be selected from the range of 0.8x-lx, such as from the range of 0.9x-lx, or such as from the range of 0.8x- 0.9x, where x is a proper divisor of 360°. Hence, in specific embodiments, the tubular housing comprises (a wall element comprising) a wall portion and the light exit window, wherein the wall portion is (effectively) impermeable for the light source light, and wherein the housing opening angle (a) is selected from the range of 90-175°. A larger amount of light source light may escape via the light exit window comprising a larger housing opening angle (a). Especially, the amount of light escaping via the light exit window may be controlled in dependence of the housing opening angle (a).
[0024] In embodiments, the housing opening angle (a) may be varied. Especially, the tubular housing may further comprise shutters or opaque films configured within the wall portion. More especially, said shutters or opaque films may be configured to close at least a part of the light exit window. Herein, the shutters or the opaque films may comprise gears or levers that may be actuated by means of rotating the tubular housing. Further, in embodiments, the shutters or films may be actuated electrically by means of electrical motors or actuators.
[0025] In embodiments, the tubular light generating device may comprise one or more (solid state) light sources. Especially, the tubular housing may enclose the one or more solid state light sources. Further, in embodiments, the tubular housing may define a device compartment. Furthermore, the one or more solid state light sources may especially be configured in the device compartment. Note that the tubular housing may in embodiments at least partly enclose the device compartment.
[0026] In further embodiments, a light source support may be configured within the device compartment. The light source support may in embodiments be a base (or support) over which other elements may be configured. In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources may be electrically coupled to the light source support. More especially, the light source support may facilitate electrically powering the one or more solid state light sources. In further embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources may be electrically coupled to an electrical driver. Hence, the light source support may especially facilitate controlling the one or more solid state light sources. In further embodiments, the light source support may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB), wherein the one or more solid state light sources may be (configured on and) electrically coupled to the light source support comprising the PCB. In further embodiments, the light generating system may comprise a control system. Especially, the control system may control the operation of the one or more light sources. In embodiments, the light source support may especially be configured fixed by the device support. That is, the light source support may especially be physically secured to and may be supported by the device support. Especially, the tubular housing and the light source support may be configured rotatable relative to each other. Hence, in this way, the amount of light escaping the light exit window may be controlled by altering the orientation of the light source support relative to the light exit window. Especially, the alignment or orientation of the light exit window relative to the one or more light sources may be controlled by rotating the tubular housing relative to the light source support. Hence, in specific embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources are configured on a light source support, wherein the light source support is configured fixed by the device support (and wherein the tubular housing and the light source support are configured rotatable relative to each other). In such embodiments, the amount the light source light outcoupled via the tubular housing may be limited by rotating the tubular housing such that only a part of the light source light is incident on the light exit window. Further, such a configuration provides control over the amount of light outcoupled from the light generating device.
[0027] Alternatively, in embodiments, the light source support may also be configured to rotate relative to the device support. Hence, the direction in which a beam of light source light may be outcoupled may especially be controlled. In further embodiments, the light source support may be configured to rotate along with the tubular housing. In embodiments, the light source support may also be configured to be rotated independently of the tubular housing.
[0028] In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources may be configured to generate the light source light. Especially, the one or more solid state light sources may be configured to provide light source light over a (lighting) angle (cp) (defined in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) of at least 180°, such as of at least 225°, especially of at least 270°, more especially of at least 315°. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more solid state light sources may be configured to provide light source light over an angle (cp) (defined in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) of at most 270°, such as of at most 180°, especially of at most 90°.
[0029] The area of the light exit window may be (partially) defined by the housing opening angle (a). Further, in one mode of operation, it may be desired to illuminate the entire light exit window with light source light. Hence, the (lighting) angle (cp) may be selected such that, in at least one orientation of the tubular housing relative to the light source support, the entire light exit window is illuminated by the light source light. That is, in embodiments, in a projection in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA), the angle (cp) may completely overlap the housing opening angle (a). Especially, to facilitate a complete overlap of the angle (cp) over the housing opening angle (a), the angle (cp) and the housing opening angle (a) may be selected such that cp > a, such as cp > 1.05*a, especially cp > 1.1 *a, more especially cp > 1.2*a. In another mode of operation, only a part of the light source light may be incident on the light exit window. In such an operational mode, in a projection in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA), the angle (cp) may only partially overlap the housing opening angle (a). Especially, a partial overlap of the angle (cp) over the housing opening angle (a), the angle (cp) and the housing opening angle (a) may be selected such that (p < a, such as cp < 0.95*a, especially cp < 0.9*a, more especially cp < 0.8*a. In yet another operational mode, the light source light may only be incident on the wall portion and not on the light exit window. In such an operational mode, in a projection in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA), the angle (cp) may not overlap the housing opening angle (a). Hence, in embodiments, the amount of light source light outcoupled via the light exit window may be controlled by controlling the alignment of the light exit window relative to the one or more solid state light sources.
[0030] In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources may be selected from the group of laser diodes and superluminescent diodes. Note that it will be apparent to the skilled person that the one or more solid state light sources may also be selected from other light emitting solid state devices / sources. Aspects and features relating to the solid state light sources are discussed further below.
[0031] In embodiments, the device support and the tubular housing may be configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis (RA) over a tubular device rotation angle (9). In embodiments, complete rotation of the tubular housing relative to the device support may be possible i.e., 9 may especially be selected in the range 9-369°. In further embodiments, the tubular housing may be rotated relative to the device support over an angle of at maximum 279°, such as at maximum 189°, especially at maximum 99° (in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction about the rotation axis (RA)). The region of space (such as a room) illuminated by the light generating device may be controlled by rotating the tubular housing relative to the device support. For example, bright light may be provided by the light generating system to illuminate a room in one operational mode, while the tubular housing may be rotated (in combination with the light source support) towards a wall to provide diffuse light in another operational mode. In embodiments, the light source light outcoupled via the tubular housing may (subsequently) be outcoupled from the light generating system via the tubular optical element. Here below, aspects and features of the tubular optical element are described.
[0032] In embodiments, the tubular optical element may have a hollow cylindrical geometry and may be configured (lengthwise) around the rotation axis (RA), i.e. the rotation axis (RA) may pass through the center of the tubular optical element. Especially, the tubular optical element may have a hollow right circular cylindrical geometry (i.e., the tubular optical element may be shaped as a hollow right cylinder). Especially, an axis of elongation of the tubular optical element may be coincident with the rotation axis (RA). The “hollow cylindrical geometry” may be defined as a cylindrical geometry that may be hollow (or empty) from inside and may have some difference between an internal radius and an external radius, relating to a wall thickness of the tubular optical element. Alternatively, in embodiments, the tubular optical element may also have a hollow prism-like geometry. As mentioned above, the prism-like geometry may be a shape selected from the group of a triangular prism, a rectangular prism, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism and (any other) polygonal prisms. Analogous to the hollow cylinder, a hollow prism has a similar geometry as a regular prism with the exception of a hollow interior, further comprising an inner face (or inner wall) and an outer face (or outer wall). The prism-like geometry may especially be selected from the group of right regular prisms.
[0033] As mentioned before, in embodiments, the tubular optical element may at least partly enclose the tubular housing. For instance, in embodiments, in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA) the tubular optical element may only partially surround the tubular housing i.e., the tubular optical element may comprise an opening or a gap. In such embodiments, the light source light may especially escape from the light generating device (via the tubular housing) and may be outcoupled via the said opening or the gap. In further embodiments, in a direction along the rotation axis (RA), the length of the tubular optical element may be smaller than the length of the tubular housing. The tubular optical element may have a length L2 measured in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA). Especially, 0.5<L2 / LI<0.9, such as 0.6<L2 / LI<0.8, especially 0.65<L2 / LI<0.75. In such embodiments, there may exist parts of the tubular housing along the rotation axis (RA) not surrounded by the tubular optical element. Hence, light source light may especially escape from the tubular housing without being incident on the tubular optical element. Alternatively, in embodiments, in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA), the tubular optical element may (also) completely surround the tubular housing. In embodiments, the tubular housing and the tubular optical element may especially share the same rotation axis (RA). Hence, the tubular optical element and the tubular housing may especially be rotated about the same axis relative to each other. Especially, the tubular housing and the tubular optical element may be configured rotatable relative to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over a tubular optical element rotation angle (P). In embodiments, complete rotation of the tubular optical element relative to the tubular housing may be possible i.e., P may especially be selected in the range 0-360°. In further embodiments, the tubular optical element may be rotated relative to the tubular housing over an angle of at maximum 270°, such as at maximum 180°, especially at maximum 90° (in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction about the rotation axis (RA)).
[0034] In embodiments, (i) the tubular housing and the device support may especially be configured rotatable relative to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over an angle (9), and (ii) the tubular housing and the optical element may especially be configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over an optical element rotation angle (P). Note that, in embodiments, the rotation between the tubular housing and the tubular optical element may (at least partially) be independent from rotation between the device support and the tubular housing. In further embodiments, the device support and the tubular optical element may (also) be configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis (RA) over a tubular device rotation angle (y).
[0035] In yet further embodiments, the light source support may also be configured rotatable relative to the device support over a light source support angle (w) (defined in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)). In summary, in embodiments, one or more of (i) the tubular optical element, (ii) the tubular housing, and (iii) the light source support may be configured to rotate (independently) relative to the device support.
[0036] Note that in embodiments each of (i) the tubular optical element, (ii) the tubular housing, and (iii) the light source support may be constrained to independently rotate (relative to the device support) over a maximum angle of 360°, such as a maximum angle of 315°, especially a maximum angle of 270°. In further embodiments each of (i) the tubular optical element, (ii) the tubular housing, and (iii) the light source support may be configured for rotation relative to the device support at an angle over 360°, such as over an angle of 720°, especially over an angle of 1080°. However, further embodiments may also facilitate free rotation of each of (i) the tubular optical element, (ii) the tubular housing, and (iii) the light source support (relative to the device support). Here, the term “free rotation” refers to there (effectively) being no maximum rotation angle. In particular, in embodiments, each of (i) the tubular optical element, (ii) the tubular housing, and (iii) the light source support may be configured to freely rotate relative to another, i.e., there may (effectively) be no maximum rotation angle.
[0037] In embodiments, the tubular optical element and tubular housing may have a predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold such that there may be no relative rotation between the tubular optical element and the tubular housing without the application of a (rotational) friction force (or torque) above the predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold. Analogously, in embodiments, the tubular housing and the device support may have a predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold such that there may be no relative rotation between the tubular housing and the device support without the application of a (rotational) friction force (or torque) above the predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold. Yet further, the tubular optical element may (also) in embodiments be rotated relative to the device support without the rotation of the tubular housing. In such embodiments, the tubular optical element and the device support may have a predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold such that there may be no relative rotation between the tubular optical element and the device support without the application of a (rotational) friction force (or torque) above the predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold. Furthermore, in embodiments, the light source support and the device support may have a predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold such that there may be no relative rotation between the tubular housing and the device support without the application of a (rotational) friction force (or torque) above the predefined (rotational) friction force (or torque) threshold. Hence, in the absence of the application of rotational force, a relative orientation of one or more of the tubular optical element, the tubular housing, the light source support and the device support may remain unchanged once configured (for example at rest). The orientation of one or more of the tubular optical element, the tubular housing, the light source support and the device support relative to each other may (only) be changed upon the application of a force (or torque) above the predefined friction force threshold between the aforementioned elements. Such a force (or torque) may in embodiments be applied manually by the user. Alternatively, in embodiments, such a force may (also) be applied by means of rotators or actuators. Especially, the light generating system may comprise rotators or actuators controlled by means of a control system configured to facilitate the rotation of one or more of the tubular optical element, the tubular housing and the device support relative to each other. In further embodiments, the light generating system may comprise a first locking system and a second locking system. In embodiments, the first locking system may be configured to fix the device support and the tubular light generating device (especially the tubular housing) relative to each other (in a selectable configuration). Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, the second locking system may be configured to fix the tubular housing and the tubular optical element relative to each other (in a selectable configuration). The first locking system and the second locking system may especially facilitate securing (or configuring) the light generating system in a specific configuration (such as at rest). Hence, in specific embodiments, the light generating system further comprises one or more of (i) a first locking system configured to fix the device support and the tubular light generating device relative to each other, and (ii) a second locking system configured to fix the tubular housing and the tubular optical element relative to each other.
[0038] Altering the configuration of one or more of the tubular optical element, the tubular housing and the device support relative to one another may effectively alter the mode of operation of the light generating system. In further embodiments, the tubular optical element may comprise one or more optical element parts having a different optical property relative to the light source light. Here, “having a different optical property relative to (light source) light” refers to one optical element part providing a different variation to the spectral properties of the incident (light source) light compared to another optical element part. In embodiments, the tubular optical element may be rotated to select the optical element part upon which the light source light is incident on. Thus, the light generating system may especially be operated in a plurality of (selectable) operational modes by rotating the tubular optical element relative to the tubular housing (and / or the device support). In summary, the light generating system may be operated in one or more operational modes wherein the spectral properties of the system light outcoupled from the light generating system may especially be controlled by rotating one or more of the tubular optical element, the tubular housing and the light source support relative to the device support.
[0039] Furthermore, in embodiments, the direction in which a beam of light is outcoupled from the light generating system may (also) be controlled by rotating the tubular housing and / or the light source support relative to the device support. Hence, the optical properties of the system light may especially be controllable in dependence of the tubular device rotation angle (9) and the tubular optical element rotation angle (P). In further embodiments, the optical properties of the system light may especially be controllable in dependence of the tubular device rotation angle (0), the tubular optical element rotation angle (P) and the light source support angle (w).
[0040] In embodiments, the light generating system may be operated in one or more operational modes. Note that each optical element part may provide an alteration to the optical property of the light source light (different from the other optical element parts). Especially, in a first operational mode of the light generating system, the system light may comprise at least part of the light source light transmitted by (a) the light-transmissive light exit window, and (b) one or more of the n optical element parts. Other operational modes may be defined in embodiments in dependence of the optical element part irradiated by light source light. In embodiments, n may be at least 2, such as at least 3, especially at least 4. Further, in embodiments, n may be at most 5, such as at most 4, especially at most 3.
[0041] In embodiments, the optical element (having a hollow cylindrical geometry or a hollow prism-like geometry) may be divided into k (cylindrical) sectors arranged radially about the rotation axis (RA). Especially, each sector may comprise one or more optical element parts, especially one optical element part. In embodiments, the k sectors may be arranged around (or about) the rotation axis (RA). Especially, k may be at least 2, such as at least 3, especially at least 4. Further, in embodiments, k may be at most 5, such as at most 4, especially at most 3. Note that, in such embodiments, each sector may consist of one optical element part. Hence, the number of optical element parts may be equal to the number of sectors (i.e., n=k).
[0042] Additionally or alternatively, the tubular optical element may in embodiments be divided along the rotation axis (RA) into m segments. In embodiments, each segment may be (i) rotated about (or around) the rotation axis (RA) and (ii) (also) rotated relative to the other segments. Furthermore, each segment may in embodiments be (i) translated over the tubular housing in a direction along the rotation axis (RA) and (ii) translated relative to the other segments. Especially, m may be at least 2, such as at least 4, especially at least 6. Further, in embodiments, m may be at most 10, such as at most 8, especially at most 6. Further, in embodiments, each segment may further comprise k sectors. Therefore, in embodiments, each segment may comprise a plurality of optical element parts. Note that in specific embodiments, each segment may only consist of one sector. In such embodiments, each segment may consist of one optical element part. Here, especially, the number of optical element parts may be equal to the number of segments (i.e., n=m).
[0043] In a first specific embodiment, the tubular optical element may comprise one segment and k sectors. In this embodiment, each sector may consist of one optical element part, i.e., n=k. In a second specific embodiment, the tubular optical element may comprise m segments and one sector. In this embodiment, each segment may consist of one optical element part, i.e., n=m. In a third specific embodiment, the tubular optical element may comprise m segments and k sectors. That is, the tubular optical element may be divided (along the rotation axis (RA)) into m segments, wherein each segment is (effectively) further divided (about the rotation axis (RA)) into k sectors. In this embodiment, each sector in each segment may consist of one optical element part. In such embodiments, the total number of optical element parts may be the sum of all sectors defined in each segment. That is, n=k*m. Hence, in further embodiments, n may be at least 2, such as at least 3, especially at least 4, more especially at least 6. Furthermore, in embodiments, n may be at most 50, such as at most 32, especially at most 18. Here below, first, a description of the aspects and features related to a sector is provided, followed by, a description of aspects and features related to a segment.
[0044] In embodiments, the k sectors may be arranged equidistant from the rotation axis (RA) in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA) i.e., the centroid of each sector may be arranged equidistant from the rotation axis (RA). A sector may be a part of a hollow cylinder and may be defined by an inner radius and an outer radius on two sides, and may be bound on each side by two planes passing through the rotation axis (RA). Analogously, in embodiments wherein the tubular optical element has a prism-like geometry, the sector may yet be defined by an inner wall and an outer wall on two sides and may be bound on each side by two planes passing through the rotation axis (RA). Hence, essentially, the two sides of the sector may enclose an angle (5) in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA). In further embodiments, the tubular optical element may be divided into one or more sectors each defined by an optical element opening angle (5i), where i refers to the index of the sector ranging from 1 to k. Furthermore, in such embodiments, each optical element part may comprise the optical element opening angle (5i). It follows from this that, in embodiments, 8(- = 360°. Hence, in specific embodiments, the tubular optical element consists of two optical element parts, wherein one of two optical element parts extends in the first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA) over a first optical element opening angle (5i) and wherein the other one of two optical element parts extends in the first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA) over a second optical element opening angle (82), wherein the first optical element opening angle (61) and the second optical element opening angle (62) are selected from the range of 10-360°, wherein (6I+62)=360°. In embodiments, the optical element opening angle 6i of all the sectors may be the same. However, in embodiments, the optical element opening angle 5i of the sectors may vary.
[0045] Further, in embodiments, the tubular optical element may comprise k sectors, wherein each sector may extend over an optical angle 360° / k. Especially, (a) may be at least 0.80*360'° / k, such as at least 0.85*360'° / k, especially at least 0.9*360'° / k. In further embodiments, (a) may be at most 1.2*360'° / k, such as at most 1.15*360'° / k, especially at most l. l*36O° / k. In particular, in further embodiments, (a) may be at most 36O'° / k, such as at most 0.95*360'° / k, especially at most 0.9*360'° / k. In such an embodiment, each optical element part comprising the sector may (in different operational modes) be aligned with the housing opening angle (a) such that the entire sector is illuminated by the light source light escaping via the light exit window.
[0046] For instance, in specific embodiments, the tubular optical element has 4 sectors, wherein each sector extends over the same optical element opening angle, wherein 51=52= 5s= 54=90°, especially wherein the housing opening angle a may be at least 80°, such as at least 85°, especially at least 87.5°. In further embodiments, a may be at most 100°, such as at most 95°, especially at most 92.5°. In further embodiments, a may be at most 90°, such as at most 87°, especially at most 85°.
[0047] Similarly, in specific embodiments, the tubular optical element has 3 sectors, wherein each sector extends over the same optical element opening angle i.e., 51=52= 53=120°. Especially, in such embodiments, the housing opening angle a may be at least 100°, such as at least 110°, especially at least 115°. In further embodiments, a may be at most 130°, such as at most 125°, especially at most 122.5°. In further embodiments, a may be at most 120°, such as at most 115°, especially at most 110°.
[0048] In embodiments, the one or more sectors (consisting each of one optical element part) may especially have unique effects on the optical properties of the incident light source light. That is, in embodiments, each of the one or more optical element parts may have different effects on the optical properties of the incident light source light (compared to any other of the one or more optical element parts).
[0049] In embodiments, the one or more optical element parts may comprise an opening. Especially, one of the one or more sectors may be an opening. The light source light may especially escape from the light generating system via the opening. Alternatively, in embodiments, the opening may also be an optical element part that may be (at least 99%) transmissive for light source light. Hence, in such embodiments, the light source light may especially escape via the tubular optical element with (substantially) no alterations to the spectral properties of the light source light. Note that the opening may only be defined over a part of the tubular optical element. That is, in embodiments, the opening may radially enclose the tubular housing (in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) over less than 330°, such as less than 240°, especially less than 150°, more especially less than 60°. Yet, in embodiments, the opening may radially enclose the tubular housing over more than 45°, such as over more than 135°, especially over more than 225°.
[0050] In embodiments, the optical property in the optical element part (comprising a sector) may exhibit a (linear) variation with angular coordinate p of the cylindrical sector. Note that the angular coordinate p is the azimuthal angle in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA). In embodiments, the optical property may exhibit a variation in the azimuthal direction from one end of the cylindrical sector to the other. For example, for an optical element part having an optical element opening angle (5i), p may be selected from the range x - x+5i, wherein x is selected from the range of 0 - 360°, and wherein the diffusivity of the optical element part varies with p, wherein a rotation in the range of 0° - 5i may provide fine control in the extent of diffuse light outcoupled from the light generating system (via the optical element part). Note that this variation may refer to a variation in optical properties (in the azimuthal direction in a first cross section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) of each optical element part. It will be apparent to the skilled person that a series of optical element parts may be arranged around the rotation axis (RA) such that the tubular optical element (comprising the optical element parts) may exhibit a (linear) variation in optical properties in the azimuthal direction. For example, the optical element part may exhibit a diffusion gradient in a rotation direction (i.e., the azimuthal direction) and the extent of diffusion may be controlled by rotating the tubular optical element.
[0051] In embodiments, the variation in optical property of the one or more sectors (in the azimuthal direction) may be continuous from one end of the cylindrical sector to the other end of the cylindrical sector. In yet further embodiments, the variation in optical properties (in the azimuthal direction) may exhibit a linear increase from one end of the cylindrical sector to the other end of the cylindrical sector. Note that the variation of optical property of the one or more sectors in the azimuthal direction may also be discrete (such as a stepwise increase). As mentioned, at least one of the n optical element parts has an optical property varying along a rotation direction relative to the rotation axis (RA).
[0052] As mentioned earlier, in embodiments, the tubular optical element may be divided along the rotation axis (RA) into m optical segments (or “segments”). In embodiments, the tubular optical element may comprise a stack of segments (stacked along the rotational axis (RA)). Especially, each segment may have the same outer radius and inner radius (as the other segments) and may have an axis aligned with the rotation axis (RA). In embodiments, each segment may have a length (h) measured in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA), wherein k = L2. In embodiments, in one or more operational modes, each individual segment may be configured to be rotated about (or around) the rotation axis (RA). In further specific embodiments, the tubular optical element comprises a plurality of optical segments along the rotation axis (RA), wherein the optical segments are rotatable relative to one another. Furthermore, in embodiments, the plurality of segments may be (individually) translated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA) relative to one another.
[0053] Apart from the rotation of the tubular optical element (about the rotation axis (RA)), the tubular optical element may (also) in embodiments be translated along the rotation axis (RA) to operate the light generating system in one or more operational modes. Hence, the tubular optical element may especially exhibit a variation in optical properties in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA). Such aspects are described below.
[0054] In embodiments, each optical element part may extend (in a direction along the rotation axis (RA)) from a first end of the tubular optical element to a second end of the tubular optical element. In embodiments, the tubular optical element may have a length L2 measured (in a direction along the rotation axis (RA)) from the first end of the tubular optical element to the second end of the tubular optical element. Especially, the optical element part may (also) have a length L2.
[0055] The variation in optical property of the optical element part may be continuous from the first end of the tubular optical element to the second end of the tubular optical element. Especially, the optical property may exhibit a (linear) variation along the length L2 of the optical element part. Especially, the variation in optical property may exhibit a linear increase from the first end of the tubular element to the second end of the tubular element, or vice versa.
[0056] Alternatively, in embodiments, the variation in optical property of the optical element part may be discrete (such as a stepwise increase) from the first end of the optical element to the second end of the optical element. For example, in embodiments, the optical density (i.e., the absorbance) of an optical element part may increase linearly from the first end of the tubular optical element to the second end of the tubular optical element. In such embodiments, consequently, the transmittance of light source light from the light generating system may exhibit a variation in a direction along the rotation axis (RA). Note that, in embodiments, the length of the tubular optical element may be the same as the length of the tubular housing (or the tubular light generating device). Alternatively, in embodiments, the length of the tubular optical element may be smaller than that of the tubular housing (or the tubular light generating device). In embodiments, the tubular housing may have a first length (Li) (defined parallel to the rotation axis (RA)). Note that the first length (Li) may especially be the length of the tubular housing measured between the device support (configured at either end of the tubular light generating device). In embodiments, the tubular housing may partly extend within the device support, however, the first length (Li) is measured in exclusion of the part extending within the device support. Further, in embodiments, the tubular optical element may have a second length (L2) (defined parallel to the rotation axis (RA)). In embodiments, L2<LI. In embodiments, the first length Li may be selected from the range of 0.2-3.0 m, especially from the range of 0.25-1.5 m, such as from the range of 0.5-1.25 m, especially from the range of 0.75-1 m. In embodiments, the tubular optical element may be configured slidable along the tubular housing in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA). Especially, in an operational mode, the tubular optical element may especially be configured translatable in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA). This may provide the advantage of tuning or controlling the optical properties of the light outcoupled from the light generating system by translating the tubular optical element in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA).
[0057] As mentioned before, in embodiments, 0.5<L2 / LI<0.9, such as 0.6<L2 / LI<0.8, especially 0.65<L2 / LI<0.75. In such embodiments, the tubular optical element may be smaller than the tubular housing and there may be room to translate the tubular optical element along the tubular housing in a direction parallel to the rotation axis (RA). This may provide the advantage of altering the spectral properties of light outcoupled from a part of the tubular housing by means of the tubular optical element, while the light outcoupled from the remainder of the tubular housing may remain unaltered. In further embodiments, L2 / L1 > 0.9, such as L2 / L1 > 0.95, especially, L2 / L1 > 0.98. In such embodiments, a majority of the light outcoupled from the tubular housing may be transmitted via the tubular optical element, however, a sliver of light from one or both ends of the tubular housing may yet be outcoupled without contacting the tubular optical element. For example, for the purpose of disinfection, ultraviolet light (comprised by the system light) may be outcoupled from parts near the tubular housing ends while the tubular optical element may filter out the ultraviolet light (comprised by the system light) in the parts of the tubular housing away from the tubular housing ends. In further embodiments, it may also apply that LI=L2.
[0058] In summary, in specific embodiments, one or more of the following applies: (i) the tubular housing and the optical element are configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over an optical element rotation angle (P), and (ii) the tubular optical element is configured translatable relative to the tubular housing over the rotation axis (RA).
[0059] In a further embodiment, the tubular optical element may be configured twistable. In particular, an optical element part may have a first edge and may be configurable in a first arrangement and in a second arrangement. In a first arrangement, the first edge may be oriented in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA. In a second arrangement the first edge may be oriented at a twist angle y relative to (an axis parallel to) the rotation axis (RA). As the edge may be defined by a curved part, the twist angle y may especially be defined on a curved plane (also see Fig. 3B and description thereof bellow). Hence, in embodiments, the tubular optical element may comprise optical element parts that may be twisted, especially twisted by the twist angle y. Further, in specific embodiments, the tubular optical element is configured twistable around the rotation axis (RA). Especially, the tubular optical element may comprise a material (for example silicone) that may be elastically deformable. The optical element may in embodiments be twisted by the twist angle y (in the clockwise and / or anti-clockwise direction) about the rotation axis (RA). Such a configuration may provide the benefit of irradiating at least two optical element parts simultaneously. Further, such a configuration may facilitate providing a spiral lighting effect.
[0060] Apart from the configuration of the optical element parts in relation to each other and other elements of the light generating system, each optical element part may comprise features or optical (material) properties that may facilitate altering the spectral properties of the light source light outcoupled via said optical element parts. Here below, optical properties of the one or more optical element parts are described.
[0061] In embodiments, the (or each) optical element part may be partially transmissive for light source light and partially reflective for light source light. Such an optical element part may especially limit the amount of light outcoupled from the light generating device. Especially, the one or more optical element parts may differ in their reflectance. Reflectance refers to how much light is reflected from a surface or optical element (part). In embodiments, one optical element part may have a reflectance of at least 1.5 times, such as at least 2 times, especially at least 5 times, more especially at least 10 times the reflectance of another optical element part. In further embodiments, one optical element part may have a reflectance of at most 20 times, such as at most 10 times, especially at most 5 times the reflectance of another optical element part. For instance, one optical part may have a reflectance of 1.5-5 times the reflectance of another optical element part. In specific embodiments, the tubular optical element radially encloses the tubular housing, and each of the n optical element parts is (at least partially) transmissive for the light source light, and at least two of the n optical element parts differ in reflectance for the light source light. In such embodiments, the reflectance of the tubular optical element may be selected by selecting the optical element part via which light source light is outcoupled, especially the desired optical element part may be selected by rotating (or translating) the tubular optical element, especially the optical element part, relative to the tubular housing.
[0062] In further embodiments, at least two of the n optical element parts differ in diffusivity, refractivity or diffractivity for the light source light. Diffusivity refers to the extent to which incident light is scattered by an element. In embodiments, the light source light may especially be scattered by the optical element part and may be outcoupled as diffuse light. In specific embodiments, the tubular optical element may comprise at least two optical element parts, wherein the diffusivity of a first optical element part may especially be different from a second optical element part. In embodiments, one optical element part may have a diffusivity of at least 1.5 times, such as at least 2 times, especially at least 5 times, more especially at least 10 times the diffusivity of another optical element part. In further embodiments, one optical element part may have a diffusivity of at most 20 times, such as at most 10 times, especially at most 5 times the diffusivity of another optical element part. For instance, one optical part may have a diffusivity of 1.5-5 times the diffusivity of another optical element part. For instance, one optical part may have a diffusivity 1.5-5 times the diffusivity of another optical element part. Refractivity refers to the extent to which incident light is refracted as a function of the refractive index of the optical element. Hence, in embodiments, the one or more optical element parts may especially have a different refractive index. In embodiments, one optical element part may have a refractivity of at least 1.5 times, such as at least 2 times, especially at least 5 times, more especially at least 10 times the refractivity of another optical element part. In further embodiments, one optical element part may have a refractivity of at most 20 times, such as at most 10 times, especially at most 5 times the refractivity of another optical element part. For instance, one optical part may have a refractivity of 1.5-5 times the refractivity of another optical element part. Diffractivity refers to the extent to which light may undergo bending when passing through apertures or around objects. Especially, the one or more optical elements may comprise tiny apertures or alternatively tiny particles. Hence, in embodiments, the light source light incident on the optical element part may undergo diffraction, especially the extent of diffraction that the light source light undergoes may especially be different in each optical element part. In embodiments, one optical element part may have a diffractivity of at least 1.5 times, such as at least 2 times, especially at least 5 times, more especially at least 10 times the diffractivity of another optical element part. In further embodiments, one optical element part may have a diffractivity of at most 20 times, such as at most 10 times, especially at most 5 times the diffractivity of another optical element part. For instance, one optical part may have a diffractivity 1.5-5 times the diffractivity of another optical element part.
[0063] In further embodiments, the one or more optical element parts may (each) comprise an optical filter. Optical filters may especially be transmissive only for a specific range of wavelengths. Hence, an optical element comprising one or more optical element parts comprising different optical filters may facilitate color selectivity. Especially, the correlated color temperature (CCT) of the outcoupled system light may be controlled. In specific embodiments, at least one of the n optical element parts comprises an optical filter having a wavelength dependent transmission for the light source light propagating through that optical element part. Here, the correlated color temperature (CCT) is a measure of light source color appearance defined by the proximity of the light source's chromaticity coordinates to the blackbody locus, as a single number rather than the two required to specify a chromaticity. In embodiments, the light generating system may be configured such that the system light emanating from two different optical element parts may have a correlated color point difference of at least 100 K, such as a difference of at least 500 K, especially a difference of at least 1000 K. Further, in embodiments, the light generating system may be configured such that the system light emanating from two different optical element parts may have a correlated color point difference of at most 2000 K, such as a difference of at most 1000 K, especially a difference of at most 500 K.
[0064] In further embodiments, the one or more optical element parts may facilitate collimation of the light source light. Collimation refers to the extent to which a beam of light is spread out. For instance, a collimated beam essentially has parallel rays of light. In specific embodiments, at least two of the n optical element parts differ in collimation of the light source light propagating through that optical element part. In embodiments, at least one of the n optical element part may be configured to increase collimation of the light source light. That is, the optical element part may especially decrease the beam angle A of outcoupled system light. Alternatively, in embodiments, at least one of the n optical element part may be configured to decrease collimation of the light source light. In further embodiments, one of the n optical element parts may be configured to increase the collimation of the light source light and another one of the n optical element parts may be configured to decrease the collimation of light source light. That is, the optical element part may especially increase the beam angle A of outcoupled system light.
[0065] In further embodiments, one or more optical element parts may especially comprise (micro) lenses. Lenses are light transmissive optical elements that may converge or diverge a beam of light by means of refraction. Micro lenses refer to lenses with a diameter in the range of 1-1000 pm. In specific embodiments, the at least one of the at least two optical element parts comprises a plurality of (micro) lenses. In further embodiments, the plurality of micro lenses may form an array configured to beam shape the system light.
[0066] In further embodiments, the beam angle A of the outcoupled system light may especially be controlled. The beam angle A may be defined in terms of the full width at half maximum (FWHM), where FWHM is the width of a beam of light where the power received from a (light) source is half its peak value. Note that the beam angle A is defined (in a crosssection perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA)) with respect to the solid state light source (and not the rotation axis (RA)). Hence, the beam angle A of the outcoupled system light (comprising the light source light) may especially be varied in dependence of the position of the solid state light sources within the device compartment. Especially, the beam angle A may be increased by positioning the solid state light source closer to the light exit window, and decreased by positioning the solid state light source further away from the light exit window. In further embodiments, the light source support (comprising the one or more light sources) may be defined at a (certain) distance away from the rotation axis (RA). Hence, in such embodiments, the light source support may be moved closer or further away from the light exit window by rotating the tubular housing relative to the light source support (or the device support.) Therefore, the beam angle A may especially be varied in dependence of the rotation angle (9).
[0067] In embodiments, the light generating system may be configured in a first configuration (in an operational mode) and in a second configuration (in a different operational mode). Especially, the system light may have a first FWHM beam angle Ai in the first configuration and a second FWHM beam angle A2 in the second configuration. Especially, Ai and A2 may differ by at least 5°, such as at least 10°, especially at least 20°. Further, in embodiments, Ai and A2 may differ by at most 40°, such as at most 30°, especially at most 20°. In further embodiments, Ai may be at least 10 times, such as at least 20 times, especially at least 50 times, more especially at least 100 times, larger than A2. In specific embodiments, the light generating system is configured such that in a first configuration of the tubular light generating device and the tubular optical element the system light has a first FWHM beam angle (Ai) and in a second configuration of the tubular light generating device and the tubular optical element the system light has second FWHM beam angle (A2), wherein Ai and A2 differ by at least 10°, and wherein 0.01< AI / A2<100, such as 0.02< AI / A2<50, especially 0.05< AI / A2<20, more especially 0.1< AI / A2<10.
[0068] In addition to the plurality of different configurations of the optical element parts, the tubular light generating device may (also) in embodiments comprise a plurality of different configurations of solid state light sources. Here below, aspects and features related to the configuration of light sources are described.
[0069] In embodiments, the light generating device may comprise one or more solid state light sources configured on the light source support. Especially, the one or more solid state light sources may be configured in a direction along (or parallel to) the rotation axis (RA). More especially, the one or more solid state light sources may be positioned at least partly over the first length (Li). In embodiments, the one or more light sources may (essentially) be the same type of light source and hence may exhibit an (essentially) uniform optical property of the light source light. Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, the optical property of the light source light emitted by the one or more solid state light sources may exhibit a variation (i.e., a variation in color, intensity, collimation, diffusivity, etc.) in a spatial direction along the first length (Li). Especially, the one or more optical properties of the light source light may be controllable over the first length (Li) by means of the control system. In specific embodiments, the tubular housing has a first length (Li) (defined parallel to the rotation axis (RA)), wherein the light generating system comprises a plurality of solid state light sources, configured over at least part of the first length (Li), and wherein one or more of the following applies: (i) one or more optical properties of the light source light are spatially invariable over the first length (Li), (ii) one or more optical properties of the light source light spatially vary over the first length (Li), and (iii) one or more optical properties of the light source light are controllable over the first length (Li).
[0070] In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources may be selected from the group of laser diodes and superluminescent diodes. In a specific embodiment, the light source or solid state light source comprises a solid state LED light source (such as an LED or laser diode (or “diode laser”)).
[0071] Further, the term “light source” may in embodiments also refer to a so-called chip-on-board (COB) light source. The term “COB” especially refers to LED chips in the form of a semiconductor chip that is neither encased nor connected but directly mounted onto a substrate, such as a PCB. In embodiments, a COB is a multi LED chip configured together as a single lighting module. The term “light source” may also refer to a chip scaled package (CSP). A CSP may comprise a single solid state die with provided thereon a luminescent material comprising layer. The term “light source” may also refer to a midpower package. A midpower package may comprise one or more solid state die(s). The die(s) may be covered by a luminescent material comprising layer.
[0072] The term “light source” may refer to a semiconductor light-emitting device, such as a light emitting diode (LEDs), a laser diode, a resonant cavity light emitting diode (RCLED), a vertical cavity laser diode (VCSELs), an edge emitting laser (EEL), a photonic crystal surface emitting laser (PCSEL), a vertical external cavity surface emitting laser (VECSEL), etc... The term “light source” may also refer to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), such as a passive-matrix (PMOLED) or an active-matrix (AMOLED). In a specific embodiment, the light source comprises a solid-state light source (such as an LED or laser diode). In an embodiment, the light source comprises an LED (light emitting diode). The terms “light source” or “solid state light source” may also refer to a superluminescent diode (SLED).
[0073] In embodiments, the term “light source” may also refer to a combination of a light source, like an LED, and an optical filter, which may change the spectral power distribution of the light generated by the light source. Especially, the term “light generating device” may be used to address a light source and further (optical components), like an optical filter and / or a beam shaping element, etc.
[0074] In embodiments, the terms “laser” or “solid state laser” or “solid state material laser” may refer to one or more of a semiconductor laser diodes, such as GaN, InGaN, AlGalnP, AlGaAs, InGaAsP, lead salt, vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), quantum cascade laser, hybrid silicon laser, etc.
[0075] The term “solid state material laser”, and similar terms, may refer to a solid state laser like based on a crystalline or glass body dopes with ions, like transition metal ions and / or lanthanide ions, to a fiber laser, to a photonic crystal laser, to a semiconductor laser, such as e.g. a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), etc. The term “solid state light source”, and similar terms, may especially refer to semiconductor light sources, such as a light emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, or a superluminescent diode.
[0076] Superluminescent diodes are known in the art. A superluminescent diode (or SLD) may be indicated as a semiconductor device which may be able to emit low-coherence light of a broad spectrum like an LED, while having a brightness in the order of a laser diode. Hence, an SLD may especially be a semiconductor light source, where the spontaneous emission light is amplified by stimulated emission in the active region of the device. Such emission is called “super luminescence”. In further specific embodiments, the solid state light source may comprise a GaN-based superluminescent diode, or an InGaN-based superluminescent diode, or an AlGaN-based superluminescent diode.
[0077] In embodiments, laser light sources may be arranged in a laser bank (see also above). The laser bank may in embodiments comprise heat sinking and / or optics e.g. a lens to collimate the laser light. Hence, in embodiments lasers in a laser bank (or “laser array bank”) may share the same optics.
[0078] The laser light source light may in embodiments comprise one or more bands, having band widths as known for lasers. In specific embodiments, the band(s) may be relatively sharp line(s), such as having full width half maximum (FWHM) in the range of less than 20 nm at RT, such as equal to or less than 10 nm. Hence, the light source light has a spectral power distribution (intensity on an energy scale as function of the wavelength) which may comprise one or more (narrow) bands.
[0079] The beams (of light source light) may be focused or collimated beams of (laser) light source light. The term “focused” may especially refer to converging to a small spot. This small spot may be at the discrete converter region, or (slightly) upstream thereof or (slightly) downstream thereof. Especially, focusing and / or collimation may be such that the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the beam at the discrete converter region (at the side face) is essentially not larger than the cross-section shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the discrete converter region (where the light source light irradiates the discrete converter region). Focusing may be executed with one or more optics, like (focusing) lenses. Especially, two lenses may be applied to focus the laser light source light. Collimation may be executed with one or more (other) optics, like collimation elements, such as lenses and / or parabolic mirrors. In embodiments, the beam of (laser) light source light may be relatively highly collimated, such as in embodiments <2° (FWHM), more especially <1° (FWHM), most especially <0.5° (FWHM). Hence, <2° (FWHM) may be considered (highly) collimated light source light. Optics may be used to provide (high) collimation (see also above).
[0080] Hence, in summary, the optical property of the outcoupled system light may especially be controlled by means of one or more of (i) the tubular optical element, and (ii) the tubular light generating device. Especially, a combination of the (rotatable and translatable) tubular optical element and the (controllable) tubular light generating device may especially provide system light with controllable (or tunable) optical properties.
[0081] Further, in embodiments, the light generating system may especially comprise a control system. Especially, the control system may be configured to control the light generating system.
[0082] The term “controlling” and similar terms especially refer at least to determining the behavior or supervising the running of an element. Hence, herein “controlling” and similar terms may e.g. refer to imposing behavior to the element (determining the behavior or supervising the running of an element), etc., such as e.g. measuring, displaying, actuating, opening, shifting, changing temperature, etc.. The controlling of the element can be done with a control system, which may also be indicated as “controller”. The control system and the element may thus at least temporarily, or permanently, functionally be coupled. The element may comprise the control system. In embodiments, the control system and element may not be physically coupled. Control can be done via wired and / or wireless control. The term “control system” may also refer to a plurality of different control systems, which especially are functionally coupled, and of which e.g. one control system may be a master control system and one or more others may be slave control systems. A control system may comprise or may be functionally coupled to a user interface.
[0083] The control system may also be configured to receive and execute instructions from a remote control. In embodiments, the control system may be controlled via an App on a device, such as a portable device, like a Smartphone or I-phone, a tablet, etc.. The device is thus not necessarily coupled to the lighting system, but may be (temporarily) functionally coupled to the lighting system.
[0084] The system, or apparatus, or device may execute an action in a “mode” or “operation mode” or “mode of operation” or “operational mode”. The term “operational mode may also be indicated as “controlling mode”. Hence, in embodiments, the control system may control (the light generating system) in dependence of one or more of an input signal of a user interface, a sensor signal (of a sensor), and a timer. The term “timer” may refer to a clock and / or a predetermined time scheme.
[0085] The light generating system may be part of or may be applied in e.g. office lighting systems, household application systems, shop lighting systems, home lighting systems, accent lighting systems, spot lighting systems, theater lighting systems, medical lighting application systems, decorative lighting systems, portable systems, automotive applications, (outdoor) road lighting systems, urban lighting systems, green house lighting systems, and horticulture lighting.
[0086] In yet a further aspect, the invention also provides a lamp or a luminaire comprising the light generating system as defined herein. The luminaire may further comprise a housing, optical elements, louvres, etc.. The lamp or luminaire may further comprise a housing enclosing the light generating system. The lamp or luminaire may comprise a light window in the housing or a housing opening, through which the system light may escape from the housing. In yet a further aspect, the invention also provides a projection device comprising the light generating system as defined herein. Especially, a projection device or “projector” or “image projector” may be an optical device that projects an image (or moving images) onto a surface, such as e.g. a projection screen. The projection device may include one or more light generating systems such as described herein. Hence, in an aspect the invention also provides a lighting device selected from the group of a lamp, a luminaire, a projector device, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device, comprising the light generating system as defined herein. Especially, the lighting device may be selected from the group of a lamp. Additionally or alternatively, the lighting device may in embodiments be selected from the group of a luminaire. In embodiments, the lighting device may also be selected from the group of an automotive light device. Yet further, in embodiments, the lighting device may be selected from the group of an optical wireless communication device. The lighting device may comprise a housing or a carrier, configured to house or support, one or more elements of the light generating system. For instance, in embodiments the lighting device may comprise a housing or a carrier, configured to house or support one or more of elements of the light generating system.
[0087] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0088] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:
[0089] Fig. 1 schematically depicts a cross-section of the light generating system 1000.
[0090] Fig. 2A-2E schematically depicts different configurations of the light generating system 1000 in embodiments. Fig. 3A-3C schematically depicts the configuration of the tubular optical element 500 in embodiments.
[0091] Fig. 4 schematically depicts an embodiment of the lighting device 1200 comprising the light generating system 1000. The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale.
[0092] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0093] Fig. 1 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the light generating system 1000. The light generating system 1000 may be configured to generate system light 1001. Further, the light generating system 1000 may facilitate controlling the one or more spectral properties of the system light 1001.
[0094] The light generating system 1000 may comprise a tubular light generating device 100, a tubular optical element 500, and a device support 600. Especially, the tubular light generating device 100 and the tubular optical element 500 may especially be elongated. In embodiments, the device support 600 may be configured to support one or more of (i) the tubular light generating device 100 and (ii) the tubular optical element 500. Note that in some embodiments, the device support 600 may support (only) the light generating device 100. In further embodiments, the device support 600 may support both the light generating device 100 and the tubular optical element 500.
[0095] In the embodiment depicted, the tubular light generating device 100 and the tubular optical element 500 both have a cylindrical geometry. In embodiments, the tubular light generating device 100 and / or the tubular optical element 500 may also have other geometries, such as geometries with a triangular cross-section, a square cross-section, a pentagonal cross-section or other polygonal cross-sections. That is, in embodiments, the tubular light generating device 100 and / or the tubular optical element 500 may have a prismlike geometry.
[0096] A rotational axis RA may be defined passing through the ends of the tubular light generating device 100 and the tubular optical element 500. Especially, the tubular light generating device 100 and / or the tubular optical element 500 may be configured to rotate about the rotation axis RA.
[0097] The tubular light generating device 100 may comprise a tubular housing 400 extending along a rotation axis RA. Especially, the tubular housing 400 may be elongated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA. The tubular housing 400 may in embodiments be configured along a part of the length of the light generating device 100. In further embodiments, the tubular housing 400 may also span the entire length of the tubular light generating device 100. In embodiments, the tubular housing 400 may comprise a light exit window 420. Especially, the light exit window 420 may be light transmissive. In some embodiments, the light exit window 420 may span the entire surface of the tubular housing 400. However, in embodiments, the tubular housing 400 may (also) comprise a wall element 415 further comprising (i) a wall portion 410 and (ii) the light exit window 420. The wall portion 410 and the light exit window 420 may comprise different optical properties, especially the wall portion 410 and the light exit window 420 may comprise different light transmissivity. Especially, the wall portion 410 may be opaque and light may escape from the tubular housing 400 (only) via the light exit window 420. In alternative embodiments, the wall portion 410 may be partially light transmissive and some light may yet be outcoupled via the wall portion 410. For example, the wall portion 410 may scatter incident light and hence may provide diffuse backlighting, while (simultaneously) the light escaping via the light exit window 420 may especially provide illumination.
[0098] In embodiments, the light generating device 100 may comprise one or more solid state light sources 10. Further, in embodiments, the tubular housing 400 may enclose at least part of the light generating device 100. Especially, the tubular housing 400 may define a device compartment 405. In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources 10 may be configured in the device compartment 405. Especially, the solid state light sources 10 may generate light source light 11. Note that in embodiments, the light exit window 420 may be transmissive for light source light 11.
[0099] Furthermore, the device compartment 405 may enclose a light source support 1100. In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources 10 may especially be configured on the light source support 1100. Further, the light source support 1100 may especially be configured fixated (or “fixed”) by the device support 600. Alternatively, in embodiments, the light source support 1100 may (also) be configured to rotate relative to the device support 600. In embodiments, the one or more solid state light sources 10 may especially be functionally coupled to the light source support 1100. Especially, the one or more solid state light sources 10 may be electrically powered by the light source support 1100. In further embodiments, the light source support 1100 may comprise an electrical driver, wherein the one or more solid state light sources 10 may be controlled by the electrical driver.
[0100] In the depicted embodiment, the tubular housing 400 may comprise a wall element 415 further comprising the wall portion 410 and the light exit window 420. The position of the light exit window 420 may be defined in relation to the orientation and / or configuration of the one or more light sources 10. Hence, at least part of the light source light 11 may be transmitted via the light exit window 420. Furthermore, the wall portion 410 may be at least partially impermeable to light source light 11. In such embodiments, light source light 11 may only be outcoupled from the tubular housing 400 via the light exit window 420. In the embodiment depicted (i.e., in the cross-sectional view), the light exit window 420 defines a housing opening angle a relative to the rotation axis RA. In embodiments, the housing opening angle a may be selected from the range of 10-225°, especially from the range of 45-180°, such as from the range of 90-175°. Further, the solid state light sources 10 configured on the light source support 1100 may especially be configured to provide light source light 11 over an angle cp of at least 90°, such as at least 120°, especially at least 150°, mores especially at least 180°, more especially at least 210°.
[0101] Further, the tubular optical element 500 may at least partly enclose the tubular housing 400. Especially, light source light 11 may be outcoupled first via the tubular housing 400 and subsequently be outcoupled via the tubular optical element 500. Note that the tubular housing 400 and / or the tubular optical element 500 may alter the spectral properties of the outcoupled light source light 11. In further embodiments, the spectral properties of the system light 1001 outcoupled from the light generating system 1000 may especially be controlled by the configuration (or orientation) of the tubular optical element 500 and the tubular housing 400 (relative to the device support 600).
[0102] The device support 600 and the tubular housing 400 may be configured rotatable relative to each other about the rotation axis RA over a tubular device rotation angle 0. Further, the tubular housing 400 and the tubular optical element 500 may especially be configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis RA over a tubular optical element rotation angle p. Furthermore, the tubular optical element 500 and the device support 600 may be configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis RA over a tubular device rotation angle y. In embodiments, one or more of the following may apply: (i) the tubular housing 400 and the optical element 500 are configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis RA over an optical element rotation angle P, and (ii) the optical element 500 is configured translatable relative to the tubular housing 400 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA. Furthermore, the device support 600 and the tubular optical element 500 may be configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis RA over a tubular device rotation angle y. Hence, the one or more system light optical properties may be controllable by controlling the tubular device rotation angle 9 and the tubular optical element rotation angle p. Note that, in embodiments, the rotation between the tubular housing 400 and the optical element 500 may (at least partially) be independent from rotation between the device support 600 and the tubular light generating device 100.
[0103] Further, in the depicted embodiment, the light generating system 1000 comprises (i) a first locking system 107, configured to fix the device support 600 and the tubular light generating device 100 relative to each other (in a selectable configuration), and (ii) a second locking system 507 configured to fix the tubular housing 400 and the tubular optical element 500 relative to each other (in a selectable configuration). Especially, a manual force above a predefined threshold may be required to rotate: (i) the device support 600 and the tubular light generating device 100 relative to each other, and (ii) the tubular housing 400 and the tubular optical element 500 relative to each other.
[0104] Further, in the depicted embodiment, the light generating device 100 comprises a device compartment 405 enclosing the solid state light sources 10. The tubular housing 400 may comprise a wall element 415 further comprising a wall portion 410 and a light exit window 420. Especially, the optical properties of the wall portion 410 and light exit window 420 may differ. For example, in the depicted embodiments, the wall portion 410 may be diffusive for light source light 11 and the light exit window 420 may be light transmissive. Further, in embodiments, the light exit window 420 (in a first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis RA) may be defined over the housing opening angle a.
[0105] In embodiments, the rotation of the tubular housing 400 (along with the light source support 1100) relative to the device support 600 may alter the direction in which system light 1001 may be outcoupled. Furthermore, the amount of light source light 11 outcoupled from the tubular housing 400 may be controlled by controlling the rotation of the tubular housing 400, especially by controlling the position of the light exit window 420 relative to the light source support 1100.
[0106] In embodiments, the tubular optical element 500 may alter the spectral properties of the incident light source light 11. Especially, the tubular optical element 500 may comprise a plurality of optical element parts 510, 520, 530, etc. Especially, each optical element part 510 may comprise a unique optical property relative to the light source light 11 as compared to the other optical element parts 520, 530, etc. In embodiments, the tubular optical element 400 may comprise n optical element parts 510,520. Especially, n may at least be two. In the embodiment depicted, the tubular optical element 500 comprises four optical element parts 510,520,530 & 540. The light generating system 1000 may especially be configured in one or more operational modes by (i) rotating the tubular optical element 500 relative to the tubular housing 400 and / or the device support 600 (about the rotation axis RA), and (ii) translating the tubular optical element 500 relative to the tubular housing 400 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA. Especially, in a first operational mode of the light generating system 1000, the system light 1001 may comprise at least part of the light source light 11 transmitted by (a) the light-transmissive light exit window 420, and (b) one or more of the n optical element parts 510,520.
[0107] In embodiments of the light generating system 1000, the tubular optical element 500 may partially enclose the tubular housing 400. Especially, the (first) optical element part 510 in the depicted embodiment may comprise an opening 505. Especially, the opening 505 may radially enclose the tubular housing 400 over less than 180°. In this operational mode, the tubular optical element 500 may be configured such that the (first) optical element part 510 (comprising the opening 505) may be aligned with the light exit window 420. Hence, the light source light 11 outcoupled via the light exit window 420 may be outcoupled via the opening 505. Notice that, in this embodiment of the light generating system 1000, in the first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis RA, the first optical element part 510 extends over a first optical element opening angle 5i (defined in a cross- sectional plane perpendicular to the rotation axis RA). Further, the other optical element parts 520,530 & 540 may extend over optical element opening angles 82, 63 & 64 (not depicted). Especially, the one or more optical element opening angles 61, 62, 63, & 64 may be selected from the range of 10-360°. More especially, 61 + 62 + 63 + 64=360°. Moreover, in this embodiment, the housing opening angle a may be larger than the first element opening angle 81.
[0108] In embodiments, each of the n optical element parts 510,520 may be transmissive for the light source light 11. The one or more optical parts 510,520 may comprise a number of different optical properties relative to the light source light 11. Especially, at least two of the n optical element parts 510,520 may especially differ in reflectance for the light source light 11. Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments, at least two of the n optical element parts 510,520 may differ in diffusivity, refractivity or diffractivity for the light source light 11. Furthermore, in embodiments, at least two of the n optical element parts 510,520 may differ in collimation of the light source light 11 propagating through that optical element part. In embodiments, the optical element part 520 may be configured to increase collimation of the light source light. Alternatively, in embodiments, the optical element part 510 may be configured to decrease collimation of the light source light. Further, in embodiments, the at least one of the n optical element parts 510,520 may comprise a plurality of (micro) lenses.
[0109] The tubular optical element 500 in combination with the tubular housing 400 may especially provide control over the spectral properties of the light source light 11. Especially, the light generating system 1000 may be configured such that in a first configuration of the tubular light generating device 100 and the tubular optical element 500, the system light 1001 may have a first FWHM beam angle Ai and in a second configuration of the tubular light generating device 100 and the tubular optical element 500 the system light 1001 may have a second FWHM beam angle A2. In embodiments, Ai and A2 differ by at least 10°. Further, in embodiments, 0.01< AI / A2<100.
[0110] Furthermore, in embodiments, the color temperature of the outcoupled system light 1001 may especially be controlled. In embodiments, at least one of the n optical element parts 510,520 may comprise an optical filter having a wavelength dependent transmission for the light source light 11 propagating through that optical element part. Furthermore, the light generating system 1000 may be configured such that the system light 1001 emanating from two different optical element parts 510,520 may have a correlated color point difference of at least 500 K.
[0111] Fig. 2A-2E schematically depict embodiments of the light generating system 1000 having different configurations.
[0112] Fig. 2A schematically depicts three operational modes I, II and III of (i) a prior art system (above) and (ii) an embodiment of the light generating system 1000 (below). Note that the figure depicts a first cross-section of the light generating system 1000 perpendicular to the rotation axis RA.
[0113] The depicted prior art system is configured to outcouple system light 1001 via an exit window in a downstream direction relative to the light source 11. In the first operational mode I of the embodiment of the light generating system 1000 depicted in the figure, the optical element part 510 comprises an opening 505. Hence, light source light 11 may especially be outcoupled via the tubular housing (especially via the light exit window 420) and subsequently via the opening 505. Note that the light exit window 420 may be (substantially) light transmissive and the wall portion 410 may be partially light transmissive. In this (first) operational mode, the light generating system 1000 operates analogous to the prior art system (depicted above).
[0114] In the second operational mode II of the light generating system 1000, the tubular optical element 500 is rotated (about the rotational axis RA) relative to the tubular housing 400 such that the optical element part 520 may be configured downstream of the light exit window 420. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” relate to an arrangement of items or features relative to the propagation of the light from a light generating means (here the especially the light source), wherein relative to a first position within a beam of light from the light generating means, a second position in the beam of light closer to the light generating means is “upstream”, and a third position within the beam of light further away from the light generating means is “downstream”.
[0115] In this operational mode, the light source light 11 outcoupled via the light exit window 420 may especially be reflected by the (second) optical element part 520. Additionally or alternatively, one or more other spectral properties of the light source light 11 may be altered following the reflection at the (second) optical element part 520. For example, a part of the light source light 11 (such as in a certain wavelength range) may be absorbed by the (second) optical element part 520. Hence, light source light 11 outcoupled in the second operational mode may especially differ in optical properties compared to the first operational mode. In embodiments, the operational mode may be changed or altered by controlling the rotation of the tubular optical element 500 (about the rotational axis) relative to the tubular housing 400. Notice that the reflected light source light 11 may especially be outcoupled via the wall portion 410. In the depicted embodiment, the optical property of the wall portion 410 may be different from the light exit window 420. For example, the wall portion 410 may in embodiments be diffusive. Hence, in this way, the light generating system in the second operational mode may especially provide (diffuse) backlighting. In contrast, in the prior art system depicted above, it is only possible to provide backlighting by rotating the entire system by 180°. Furthermore, in the prior art system, the optical property of the outcoupled system light may not be modified. Hence, the prior art system may only provide system light comprising one type of light.
[0116] In the third operational mode III, the first optical element part 510 may be configured such that the first optical element part 510 partially encloses the light exit window 420. Hence, only a part of the light source light 11 outcoupled via the light exit window 420 may escape via the first optical element part 510. Hence, in such an operational mode, the amount of light source light 11 outcoupled from the light generating system 1000 may be limited. Especially, the amount of light source light 11 outcoupled from the light generating system 1000 may be controlled. That is, the luminous flux of the light source light 11 outcoupled by the light generating system 1000 may especially be lower in the third operational mode as compared to the first operational mode. Furthermore, a part of the light source light 11 may also be reflected by the second optical element part 520 and subsequently be outcoupled via the wall portion 410 and the second optical element part 420 in a direction away from the light exit window 420. Hence, in this operational mode, the light generating system 1000 may provide both illumination and backlighting. Furthermore, the light generating system 1000 may especially outcouple light in a plurality of different directions and with distinctly different spectral properties, either by rotating or translating the tubular optical element 500 relative to the tubular housing 400. In contrast, it may not be possible to provide illumination and backlighting with the prior art system depicted above operational mode I and II. To further illustrate the advantages of the light generating system 1000 over prior art systems, another prior art system comprising light sources 10 configured on both sides of the light source support 1100 is considered. With this embodiment of the prior art system, it may be possible to provide illumination and backlighting. However, with such a prior art system it is (still) not possible to alter the spectral properties of light. Furthermore, such a prior art system lacks control over other optical properties of the outcoupled system light 1001 (for example the beam angle).
[0117] Fig. 2B schematically depicts two operational modes I and II of another embodiment of the light generating system 1000. In the depicted embodiment, the tubular optical element 500 comprises four optical element parts 510,520,530 and 540. The first optical element part 510 comprises an opening 505 and the third optical element part 530 comprises an opening 506. Especially the optical element parts 510,520,530 and 540 comprise four optical element openings 81,82,83 and 84, respectively. Especially, 81+82+83+84=360°. Notice that, in the depicted embodiment, 81 is larger than 83.
[0118] In the first operational mode I, the first optical element part 510 may be configured downstream of the light exit window 420. Analogously, in the second operational mode II, the third optical element part 530 may be configured downstream of the light exit window 420. Therefore, in embodiments, the beam angle Ai (especially the FWHM) of the outcoupled system light 1001 in the first operational mode I may especially be larger than the beam angle A2 (especially the FWHM) of the outcoupled system light 1001 in the second operational mode II. Hence, in this way, the light generating system 1000 may provide control over the beam angle of the outcoupled system light 1001 in one or more operational modes.
[0119] Fig. 2C schematically depicts an embodiment of the light generating system 1000 in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis RA. In the depicted embodiment, the tubular optical element 500 comprises four optical element parts 510,520,530 and 540. Further, in this embodiment, the first optical element part 510 may especially comprise a collimator (or alternatively, one or more (micro) lenses). Hence, in an operational mode, the first optical element part 510 comprising a collimator may be configured downstream of the light exit window 420. Hence, in this operational mode, the light generating system may especially outcouple a collimated beam of system light 1001.
[0120] Fig. 2D schematically depicts an embodiment of the light generating system 1000 in a cross-section along the rotation axis RA. The tubular housing 400 may have a first length Li defined parallel to the rotation axis RA. The light source support 1100 may especially extend at least along part of the length Li of the tubular housing 400. Hence, the one or more light sources 10 may be configured along a part of the length of the tubular housing 400. Especially, the one or more light sources 10 may comprise the same type of light source and hence, the one or more optical properties of the light sources light 11 may be spatially invariable over at least part of the length Li. Alternatively, in embodiments, the one or more light sources 10 may (also) exhibit a variation in their respective optical properties and hence, the one or more optical properties of the light source light 11 may be spatially variable over at least a part of the length Li. Yet further, the one or more optical properties of the light source light 10 may be controllable over the first length Li. Hence, in specific embodiments, one or more of the following applies: (i) one or more optical properties of the light source light 10 are spatially invariable over the first length Li, (ii) one or more optical properties of the light source light 10 spatially exhibit a variation over the first length Li, and (iii) one or more optical properties of the light source light 10 are controllable over the first length Li.
[0121] In the depicted embodiment, the tubular optical element 500 partially encloses the tubular housing 400. In embodiments, the tubular optical element 500 may have a length L2 and the tubular housing may have a length Li. Furthermore, L2 may be smaller than Li. Especially, L2 / L1 < 0.9. Hence, the tubular optical element 500 may (only) partially enclose the tubular housing 400, especially, the part of the tubular housing 400 close (or near) to the ends of the tubular housing 400 may (only) partially be enclosed by the tubular optical element 500. Further, in embodiments, the tubular optical element 500 may especially be translated (or may be slidable) in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA. Hence, the light source light 11 outcoupled from a part of the light generating system 1000 in the middle of the tubular housing 400 may have different optical properties as compared to the light source light 11 outcoupled from the ends of the tubular housing 400. Hence, the optical property of the outcoupled system light 1001 may especially be controlled by translating the tubular optical element 500 relative to the tubular housing 400.
[0122] Fig. 2E schematically depicts an embodiment of the light generating system 1000 in a cross-section along the rotation axis RA. Furthermore, different parts of the tubular optical element 500 may in embodiments comprise unique optical properties. Hence, by rotating the tubular optical element 500, the part of the tubular optical element 500 via which light source light 11 is outcoupled may be controlled. In the depicted embodiment, the tubular optical element 500 has a length L2. Especially, the length of the tubular optical element 500 may be less than the length of the tubular housing 400 i.e., L2<LI. Hence, in addition to the rotation of the tubular optical element 500, the tubular optical element 500 may also be translated in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA. Additionally, the spectral properties of the light source light 11 outcoupled from a part of the tubular housing 400 (in a direction along the rotation axis RA) may selectively be altered by translating the tubular optical element 500 over said part of the tubular housing 400. In the depicted embodiment, one or more solid state light sources 10 may be configured on the light source support 1100 along at least part of the first length Li (in a direction along the rotation axis RA). Especially, the light generating system 1000 may provide control over spectral properties of the light source light 11 outcoupled from the tubular housing 400. In this embodiment, L2 is (substantially) smaller than Li. Especially, 0.5<L2 / LI<0.9. Furthermore, the tubular optical element 500 may especially be configured slidable over the tubular housing 400 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis RA.
[0123] Fig. 3A-3C schematically depict several embodiments of (configurations of) the tubular optical element 500. Fig. 3 A schematically depicts an embodiment of the tubular optical element 500. In the embodiment depicted, the tubular optical element 500 is divided into four cylindrical sectors, especially wherein each sector consists of one optical element part 510,520,530,540. The cylindrical sector may especially be defined (in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis RA) by the inner radius and the outer radius of the tubular optical element and two ends defined by two planes intersecting the tubular optical element and passing through the rotation axis RA. Note that in embodiments, each sector may span the (entire) length of the tubular optical element 500. Furthermore, the sector may exhibit a (linear) variation with angular coordinate p of the cylindrical sector 550, i.e., the optical property of the sector may vary in an azimuthal direction with respect to the rotation axis RA. Furthermore, the optical property may also exhibit a (linear) variation along the length L2 of the cylindrical sector 550. Hence, in such embodiments, the extent to which an optical property of the light source light 11 is modulated may be controlled by rotating the tubular optical element 500 about the rotation axis RA.
[0124] Fig. 3B schematically depicts an embodiment of the tubular optical element 500 comprising four cylindrical sectors, especially wherein each sector consists of one optical element part 510, 520, 530, etc. Here, each sector spans the entire length of the tubular optical element 500. Especially, each sector may comprise a first face closer to the first end of the tubular optical element 500 (than the second end of the tubular optical element 500) and a second face closer to the second end of the tubular optical element 500 (than the first end of the tubular optical element 500). Further, in the embodiment depicted, in a projection along the rotation axis, the first face is not aligned with the second face. Especially, the first face is rotated about the rotation axis RA relative to the second face. That is, the tubular optical element 500 is configured twistable about the rotation axis RA (in the clockwise and / or anticlockwise direction). Hence, each sector (consisting of one optical element part 510,520,530,540) may have a twisted configuration about the rotation axis, especially twisted by the twist angle y. In the figure, the twist angle y is marked with respect to an axis parallel to the rotation axis RA. That is, an outer edge of the sector (consisting of the optical element part 530) makes a vertical angle y (with an axis parallel to the rotation axis RA) on the outer surface of the tubular optical element 500. Hence, the tubular optical element 500 may especially have a twisted configuration around the rotation axis RA.
[0125] Fig. 3C schematically depicts an embodiment of the tubular optical element 500 comprising two or more optical element parts 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, etc. In the figure depicted, in operational mode I, the tubular optical element 500 comprises four segments, each comprising four sectors. Further, in this embodiment, each segment is geometrically identical to the other segments. In the first operational mode I, the segments are configured such that the segments are aligned. In the operational mode II, the segments are not aligned. That is, in embodiments, each segment may be rotated independent of the other segments. Hence, the light generating system 1000 may be operated in one or more operational modes by individually rotating each segment relative to the rotation axis RA. Note that each segment may especially have a length h. The sum of the lengths of each individual segment is equal to the length of the tubular optical element. That is, k = L2.
[0126] Fig. 4 schematically depicts an embodiment of a luminaire 2 comprising the light generating system 1000 as described above. Reference 301 indicates a user interface which may be functionally coupled with the control system 300 comprised by or functionally coupled to the light generating system 1000. Fig. 4 also schematically depicts an embodiment of lamp 1 comprising the light generating system 1000. Reference 3 indicates a projector device or projector system, which may be used to project images, such as at a wall, which may also comprise the light generating system 1000. Hence, Fig. 4 schematically depicts embodiments of a lighting device 1200 selected from the group of a lamp 1, a luminaire 2, a projector device 3, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device, comprising the light generating system 1000 as described herein. In embodiments, such lighting device may be a lamp 1, a luminaire 2, a projector device 3, a disinfection device, or an optical wireless communication device. Lighting device light escaping from the lighting device 1200 is indicated with reference 1201. Lighting device light 1201 may essentially consist of system light 1001, and may in specific embodiments thus be system light 1001. Reference 1300 refers to a space, such as a room. Reference 1305 refers to a floor and reference 1310 to a ceiling; reference 1307 refers to a wall.
[0127] Hence, the invention especially provides a luminaire 2 for providing luminaire light (comprising the system light 1001), wherein said luminaire 2 may have a rotation axis RA and may comprise: (I) a tubular housing 400 extending along the rotation axis RA and comprising a device compartment 405 enclosed by a wall portion 410 and a light- transmissive light exit window 420; (II) a LED light source 10 configured to emit LED light 11 and being accommodated in said device compartment; (III) a stand (or device support 600) which carries the tubular housing 400, wherein said tubular housing 400 and said stand 600 are rotatable with respect to each other over a rotation angle 0 around said rotation axis RA; wherein the light exit window 420 may be configured to transmit said LED light as device light 101, and wherein the light exit window 420 may have an opening angle (a) in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis RA; wherein said luminaire 2 further comprises a tubular optical element 500 may be arranged with respect to said stand 600 and being arranged at an outer surface of said tubular housing 400, wherein said tubular optical element 500 and said stand 600 may be rotatable with respect to each other over a rotation angle 9 around said rotation axis RA; and (VI) wherein tubular optical element 500 may comprise a first side having a first optical property and a second side, opposite to said first side, having a second optical property different from said first optical property.
[0128] The term “plurality” refers to two or more.
[0129] The terms “substantially” or “essentially” herein, and similar terms, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially or essentially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or the term “essentially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%.
[0130] The term “comprise” also includes embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of’.
[0131] The term “and / or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and / or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and / or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" may in an embodiment refer to "consisting of but may in another embodiment also refer to "containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species".
[0132] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.
[0133] The devices, apparatus, or systems may herein amongst others be described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.
[0134] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
[0135] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.
[0136] Use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.
[0137] The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.
[0138] The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, or an apparatus claim, or a system claim, enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. In yet a further aspect, the invention (thus) provides a software product, which, when running on a computer is capable of bringing about (one or more embodiments of) the method as described herein. The invention also provides a control system that may control the device, apparatus, or system, or that may execute the herein described method or process. Yet further, the invention also provides a computer program product, when running on a computer which is functionally coupled to or comprised by the device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system. The invention further applies to a device, apparatus, or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and / or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and / or shown in the attached drawings. The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Further, the person skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that also more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.
Claims
CLAIMS:
1. A light generating system (1000), configured to generate system light (1001); wherein the light generating system (1000) comprises a tubular light generating device (100), a tubular optical element (500), and a device support (600), wherein: the device support (600) is configured to support one or more of (i) the tubular light generating device (100) and (ii) the tubular optical element (500); the tubular light generating device (100) comprises a (i) tubular housing (400) extending along a rotation axis (RA), wherein the tubular housing (400) comprises a light exit window (420), wherein the tubular housing (400) defines a device compartment (405), and (ii) one or more solid state light sources (10) configured to emit light source light (11); wherein the one or more solid state light sources (10) are configured in the device compartment (405); wherein the light exit window (420) is transmissive for the light source light (11); and wherein the light exit window (420) extends in a first cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis (RA) over a housing opening angle (a) defined relative to the rotation axis (RA); the device support (600) and the tubular housing (400) are configured rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis (RA) over a tubular device rotation angle (9); the tubular optical element (500) at least partly encloses the tubular housing (400); wherein the tubular housing (400) and the tubular optical element (500) are configured rotatable to each other about the rotation axis (RA) over a tubular optical element rotation angle (P); wherein the tubular optical element (500) comprises n optical element parts(510.520.530.540) having different optical properties with respect to the light source light (11), wherein n > 2; and in a first operational mode of the light generating system (1000), the system light (1001) comprises at least part of the light source light (11) transmitted by (a) the light- transmissive light exit window (420), and (b) one or more of the n optical element parts(510.520.530.540); and wherein one or more system light optical properties are controllable by controlling the tubular device rotation angle (9) and the tubular optical element rotation angle (P), wherein at least one of the n optical element parts (510,520,503,540) has anoptical property varying along the rotation axis (RA), AND / OR wherein the tubular optical element (500) comprises a plurality of optical segments (560) along the rotation axis (RA), wherein the optical segments are rotatable relative to one another.
2. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the n optical element parts (510,520,503,540) has an optical property varying linearly along the rotation axis (RA) from the first end of the optical element to the second end of the optical element.
3. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the n optical element parts (510,520,503,540) has an optical property varying discretely along the rotation axis (RA) from the first end of the optical element to the second end of the optical element.
4. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the tubular optical element (500) radially encloses the tubular housing (400), and wherein each of the n optical element parts (510,520,530,540) is transmissive for the light source light (11), and wherein at least two of the n optical element parts (510,520,530,540) differ in reflectance for the light source light (11).
5. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two of the n optical element parts (510,520,530,540) differ in diffusivity, refractivity or diffractivity for the light source light (11).
6. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two of the n optical element parts (510,520,530,540) differ in collimation of the light source light (11) propagating through that optical element part.
7. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the n optical element parts (510,520,530,540) comprises an optical filter having a wavelength dependent transmission for the light source light (11) propagating through that optical element part.
8. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the n optical element parts (510,520,530,540) has an optical property varying along a rotation direction relative to the rotation axis (RA).
9. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tubular optical element (500) is configured twistable around the rotation axis (RA).
10. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured such that in a first configuration of the tubular light generating device (100) and the tubular optical element (500) the system light (1001) has a first FWHM beam angle (Ai) and in a second configuration of the tubular light generating device (100) and the tubular optical element (500) the system light (1001) has second FWHM beam angle (A2), wherein Ai and A2 differ by at least 10°, and wherein 0.01< Ai / A2<100.
11. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tubular housing (400) comprises a wall portion (410) and the light exit window (420), wherein the wall portion (410) is impermeable for the light source light (11), and wherein the housing opening angle (a) is selected from the range of 90-175°.
12. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more of: (i) a first locking system (107), configured to fix the device support (600) and the tubular light generating device (100) relative to each other, and (ii) a second locking system (507) configured to fix the tubular housing (400) and the tubular optical element (500) relative to each other.
13. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tubular housing (400) has a first length (Li), wherein the light generating system (1000) comprises a plurality of solid state light sources (10), configured over at least part of the first length (Li), and wherein one or more of the following applies: (i) one or more optical properties of the light source light (10) are spatially invariable over the first length (Li), (ii) one or more optical properties of the light source light (10) spatially vary over thefirst length (Li), and (iii) one or more optical properties of the light source light (10) Liare controllable over the first length (Li).
14. A lighting device (1200) selected from the group of a lamp (1), a luminaire (2), an automotive lighting device, and an optical wireless communication device, comprising the light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims.