Light matrix modular structure system

Abstract

The light matrix modular structural system includes a housing (100) having a side wall (110), an end wall (120) and a front edge (130) surrounding a front opening (140) of the housing (100) opposite the end wall (120), an array (200) of light emitting elements (210) disposed on a printed circuit board (250), the printed circuit board (250) having the array (200) disposed within the housing (100) and partition grid walls (310, 320) extending from the printed circuit board (250) toward the front opening (140) of the housing (100), and disposed in the housing (100) to form an array of partitions (330), one partition (330) corresponding to each of the light emitting elements (210). The housing (100) includes a partition grid (300) and a light diffusing member (400) disposed in the opening of the housing (100), the diffusing member (400) including a plurality of diffusing tiles (410), each of the plurality of diffusing tiles covering a partition (330) of the partition grid (300), each of the diffusing tiles (410) having a front surface (420), a rear surface (430), and a sidewall (440) formed perpendicular to the front surface (420), the diffusing member (400) including a diffusing grid (500) providing a barrier between the mutually facing sidewalls (442) of the diffusing tiles (410), the diffusing grid (500) being formed of a material different from that of the diffusing tiles (410), and the lower side of the diffusing grid (500) being adapted to abut the upper side of the partition grid (300).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular construction system and a light matrix modular construction system. [Background technology]

[0002] Modular construction systems as such are known in the art, as are various modular construction system units such as these modular construction systems, for example motor units. A modular construction system consists of multiple structural members, e.g. building blocks or bricks, which when connected together can be assembled to form a variety of different architectural structures. Motor units may be added to such modular construction systems to power parts of such systems. The light matrix modular construction system of the present invention makes it possible to provide architectural structures formed from structural elements, such as building blocks or bricks, frames, connectors, beams, etc., with light outputs. For example, a light matrix modular construction system according to the present invention can be used to form a robot eye constructed from structural members. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] A modular structural system is "modular" in the sense that the structural members that make up the structural system are sized and shaped and have cooperating connection means that allow their interconnection so that a model / set, such as a morphological robot, can be constructed.

[0004] Learning systems, robot construction sets and so-called maker kits are known and can provide different functionalities to the user.

[0005] Modular structural elements known from traditional modular construction systems such as beams, plates, bricks, pegs, connectors, gears etc. can be combined with functional modular structural elements such as lighting elements, motors / actuators, sensors etc. as well as programmable processor units which can also be digitally connected with external devices for e.g. programming or remote control. Such modular construction systems with enhanced functionality have proven their value in play and / or learning scenarios not only because they facilitate reliable yet easily removable mechanical connections between simple and functional modular structural elements, but also because the functional modular structural elements adapt to each other to provide a positive and stimulating user experience.

[0006] The light matrix itself is known in the art. One example is shown in the video at the following internet location: https: / / learn.adafruit.com / sqaure-neopixel-display-with-black-led-acrylic, see in particular the 2:15 to 2:38 minutes. A screen dump of this video is shown in Figures 1A and 1B of the accompanying drawings. The video discusses the problem of light bleeding, but the light problem is not well solved in the light matrix shown.

[0007] Other examples of light matrices are disclosed in WO95 / 18435 A1, US4254453, US 2016 / 307496A1, and KR 20180001022.

[0008] The phenomenon known as "light bleeding" occurs when two or more light sources are placed close to one another, causing light from one source to "bleed" through openings in the light source housing, or through the housing itself, distorting or changing the visual appearance of the light from the other sources.

[0009] Obviously, this problem could potentially be solved by using thicker material dimensions or more expensive light absorbing materials, but such solutions are not always possible in small devices.

[0010] The present invention alleviates some of these problems of the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] In a first aspect, the object of the present application is achieved by an optical matrix modular construction system comprising a housing having a side wall, an end wall and a front edge surrounding a front opening of the housing opposite the end wall, an array of light-emitting elements arranged on a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board being arranged in the housing, a partition grid having partition grid walls extending from the printed circuit board towards the front opening of the housing and arranged on the housing to form an array of partitions, one partition corresponding to each of the light-emitting elements, and a light diffusing member arranged at the opening of the housing, the diffusing member comprising a plurality of diffusing tiles, each of the plurality of diffusing tiles covering a partition of the partition grid, each of the diffusing tiles having a front surface, a rear surface and a sidewall formed perpendicular to the front surface, the diffusing member comprising a diffusing grid providing a barrier between mutually facing sidewalls of the diffusing tiles, the diffusing grid being made of a material different from that of the diffusing tiles, and a lower side of the diffusing grid abutting an upper side of the partition grid.

[0012] This achieves a very effective prevention of light bleeding between the compartments of the modular structural system of the light matrix and the fields / sections of the diffusing member.

[0013] Preferably, the diffusing tiles are made of a material that allows light to pass through while diffusing the light.

[0014] The diffusion grid comprises a first diffusion grid wall and an intersecting second diffusion grid wall, the first diffusion grid wall and the intersecting second diffusion grid wall being aligned with the partition grid walls of the partition grid.

[0015] In either case, the partition grid may be made of a light absorbing material.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the diffusion grid may be made of a light absorbing material. Alternatively, the diffusion grid may be made of a light reflecting material.

[0017] In either case, the diffusion grid may be formed from the same material as the sidewalls of the housing.

[0018] In some embodiments, the outwardly facing sidewalls of the diffusing tile extend forward of the leading edge and form a flush extension of the sidewalls of the housing.

[0019] This allows the visual effect of the field of the diffusing element to be obtained not only in front of the diffusing element but also to the sides.

[0020] In some embodiments, each of the diffusive tiles comprises a partition that extends within a partition provided by the partition grid.

[0021] This provides very effective prevention of light bleeding between the matrix fields while at the same time achieving light distribution over the entire outer surface of the diffusing tile.

[0022] In one embodiment, the outward facing surfaces of the sections of the diffusing tiles located at the outer edges and corners of the diffusing member are angled with respect to the outward facing sidewalls of the diffusing tiles, thereby achieving that the light emitted from the light emitting elements is also directed towards the sidewalls of the diffusing tiles. Preferably, the angle between the sidewalls of the diffusing tiles and the corresponding outward facing surfaces is an acute angle.

[0023] In one embodiment, the diffusing tile section formed at the outer corner of the diffusing member comprises a first surface formed between the outward facing surfaces of the outer corner of the diffusing member, the first surface connecting the two outward facing surfaces of the section, thereby achieving that the light emitted from the light emitting element is also directed towards the corner of the diffusing member. Preferably, the first surface forms an angle of 45° with two adjacent outward facing sides.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the diffusion tiles are interconnected by tile connecting members that are integrally formed of the same material as the diffusion tiles (410).

[0025] This allows the formation of a diffusion grid in the spaces between the diffusion tiles as a second step in a two-step molding process (two-component molding process), and the diffusion tiles with the connecting members are formed in the first step of the two-step molding process (two-component molding process), in which embodiment the connecting members are protrusions extending from the underside of the diffusion tile at the corners of the diffusion tile where four adjacent diffusion tiles meet.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the inner surfaces of the compartments of the compartment grid are covered by inner walls made of a material different from the material of the compartment grid, which may be made of a light-reflecting material.

[0027] In either case, the inner wall is made from the same material as the side wall of the housing.

[0028] In further embodiments, the inner wall is integrally formed with the housing. For example, at least the side wall of the housing may be formed together with the inner wall in a second injection molding step of a two-step molding process (two-component molding process), and the partition grid formed in the first injection molding step of the two-step molding process (two-component molding process) is used as a center for the second injection molding step. In further embodiments, the inner wall is inclined outwardly toward the diffusion member.

[0029] Also, in the above embodiments, the inner walls of the partition grid may be inclined outwardly towards the diffusing member.

[0030] Also, in the above embodiment, the outwardly facing side wall of the diffusing member may extend forward of said leading edge and be flush with the side wall of the housing as an extension thereof.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the housing includes mating openings that intermate with mating pegs of a modular construction system.

[0032] In a second aspect, the object of the present application is achieved by an optical matrix modular structural system comprising a housing having a side wall, an end wall and a front edge surrounding a front opening of the housing opposite the end wall, an array of light-emitting elements arranged on a printed circuit board, the printed circuit board being arranged in the housing, a partition grid arranged on the housing to form an array of partitions, one partition corresponding to each of the light-emitting elements, the partition grid having partition grid walls extending from the printed circuit board towards the front opening of the housing, and an optical diffusion member arranged in the opening of the housing, the outward side walls of the diffusion member extending forward of the front edge and forming a coplanar surface with the side walls of the housing as an extension thereof.

[0033] In one embodiment of the optical matrix modular structural system according to the second aspect, the diffusing member comprises a plurality of diffusing tiles, each of which covers a partition of the partition grid, each of which has a front surface, a back surface and a sidewall formed perpendicular to the front surface, the diffusing member comprises a diffusing grid providing a barrier between the mutually facing sidewalls of the diffusing tiles, the second grid being formed of a material different from that of the diffusing tiles, and the lower side of the diffusing grid abutting the upper side of the partition grid.

[0034] In further embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, the light matrix modular construction system according to the second aspect may further comprise any of the further features of the embodiments of the first aspect of the invention.

[0035] It should be emphasized that when used in this specification, the term "comprising" is to be interpreted to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.

[0036] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated by the accompanying drawings, in which: It should be emphasized that the illustrated embodiments are used for illustrative purposes only and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a prior art light matrix, showing its components in exploded state, a housing with an array of LEDs and a compartment grid made of a dark plastic material. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B illustrates a further component of the prior art light matrix of FIG. 1A, a diffuser plate disposed within the upper frame. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a light matrix modular structural system according to the present invention; [Figure 2B] 2B is a perspective view similar to FIG. 2A, showing the optical matrix modular structural system from the back or bottom. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a light matrix modular construction system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a top portion of a light matrix modular construction system according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 5] 5 is a side cross-sectional view showing the upper part of the optical matrix modular structure system according to one embodiment of the present invention, taken at a cross section different from that of FIG. 4. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an inner / internal / bottom side of a diffusion member for a light matrix modular construction system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a front view showing the diffusing member of FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] 6B shows the diffusing member of FIG. 6A in side view. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6B is a perspective view showing a cross section of the diffusing member of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7] (A) is a perspective view showing a bottom housing portion of an optical matrix modular structural system according to one embodiment of the present invention having an array of LEDs, and (B) is a perspective view showing an upper housing portion of the optical matrix modular structural system attached to the bottom housing portion of (A). [Figure 8A] 1 is a side and top perspective view of an upper housing part of a light matrix modular structural system having a partition grid disposed therein; FIG. [Figure 8B] 8B is a perspective view of the upper housing part of FIG. 8A shown from a side and illustrating a bottom surface configured to face the bottom housing part. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8B is a top view of the upper housing portion of FIG. 8A. [Figure 8D] 8B is a bottom view of the upper housing portion of FIG. 8A as viewed from below. [Figure 8E] 8B is a perspective view of the upper housing portion of FIG. 8A as seen from the side and slightly below. [Figure 8F] FIG. 8B is a side view of the upper housing portion of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9A] 1 shows the light matrix of the modular building system with the diffusing member removed and the light pattern within the light matrix. [Figure 9B] 1 is a side-parallel cross-sectional perspective view of a light matrix showing an upper housing portion including a diffusing member and illustrating the light pattern of the light matrix. [Figure 9C] 1 is an oblique corner-to-corner cross-sectional perspective view of the light matrix showing the upper housing portion including diffusion and illustrating the light pattern within the light matrix.

[0038] 1A-1B show an example of a prior art light matrix 900 in an exploded state to reveal its component parts. 1A shows a square lower housing part 910 having an LED array 920 formed therein and a grid 930 made of a dark plastic material and configured to form compartments around each LED 925 of the LED array 920. The LEDs are arranged in a regular two-dimensional pattern on a surface of a plate 940 (e.g., a printed circuit board), which is attached to the lower housing part 910.

[0039] In Figure 1A, the grid 930 is exploded from the lower housing part 910. In Figure 1B, the grid 930 is disposed within the lower housing part 910 and forms compartments around each of the LEDs 925 of the LED array 920 that abut the upper surface of the plate 940.

[0040] 1B also shows an upper housing portion 950 in the form of an upper frame 960 and a diffuser plate 970 disposed within the upper frame 960. The diffuser plate 970 is a continuous, integral structure made of a material suitable for diffusing light therethrough. The diffusion plate 970 is sized and shaped to fit into the upper frame 950 and abut against the underside of the peripheral flange of the upper frame 950, thereby covering an opening in the upper surface defined by the peripheral flange of the upper frame 950.

[0041] Upper housing portion 950 is sized and shaped to cooperate with lower housing portion 910 to form a closed box-shaped light matrix unit (not shown).

[0042] The LEDs 925 of the LED array 920 may be of a type that is capable of emitting light in several colors, or the LEDs 925 may each emit a different color.

[0043] The purpose of the grid 930, made of a dark plastic material, is to form a section 980 for each of the LEDs 925 so that the light from one section does not "bleed" into an adjacent section; the sections 980 divide the front surface of the diffuser plate into an array of square fields, where the light from one field can "bleed" through and affect the light of another square field, thereby showing a different color in the adjacent fields. As mentioned above, this is not always successful as the diffuser plate material "pulls" the light from one section into the other.

[0044] Turning now to the present invention, Figure 2A shows in perspective view a light matrix 1 of a modular construction system according to some embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2B is also in perspective view and shows the light matrix modular construction system from the back or bottom. FIG. 3 also shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular construction system of the light matrix 1 in an exploded state.

[0045] The light matrix 1 of the modular construction system (hereinafter referred to as light matrix 1) comprises a housing 100, an array 200 including a plurality of light-emitting elements 210 arranged within the housing 100, a light diffusion member 400, and a partition grid 300 arranged within the housing 100 between the array 200 of light-emitting elements 210 and the light diffusion member 400.

[0046] The housing 100 may include an upper housing portion 101 and a lower housing portion 102 , as shown, which are interconnectable to form the complete housing 100 .

[0047] The plurality of light emitting elements 210 may be arranged on a 2D grid, for example a grid defining a rectangle, a square, a circle, etc. If the grid is rectangular or square in shape, the light matrix may be a square matrix, i.e., 2×2, 3×3, 4×4, etc., having the same number of light emitting elements 210 in its rows and columns. However, in other embodiments, the number of rows and columns of light emitting elements 210 may be different. The discrete light emitting elements 210 may be light emitting diodes (LEDs), and they may be of the same kind and / or model, or they may be different.

[0048] The color and / or intensity of each of the light emitting elements 210 may be individually controlled such that some or all of the light emitting elements are on or off at a given time.

[0049] The light matrix 1 is capable of receiving digital information and preferably has the processing capability to decode the digital information and adjust the color and intensity of each light emitting element, e.g., upon request, either directly by a user or via a software program. By "adjust" we mean that the color and intensity are set appropriately, e.g., by changing the color, increasing or decreasing the intensity, or turning the light off (intensity=0).

[0050] Preferably, the array 200 of light emitting elements 210 may be a regular 3×3 array of light emitting elements 210 (3 rows and 3 columns arranged orthogonally) as shown, ie, a total of nine light emitting elements 210 .

[0051] The light emitting element 210 is preferably mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 250, for example as shown in FIG.

[0052] Typically, the PCB is made of a green material, but this material is highly transparent to light. To reduce this light source seeping through the housing 100, a more light absorbing black PCB material is selected in the preferred embodiment, such as the back side of the housing and the lower housing portion 102.

[0053] A control for regulating the light emitting elements 210 may be provided as a component on the PCB 250 .

[0054] The light matrix 1 may further comprise electronic components such as electronic control components, an energy source (e.g. a battery package), etc. Preferably, such further electronic components are provided in the lower housing part 101 or on the PCB 250, preferably on the back side of the PCB.

[0055] The light matrix 1 may further comprise means for communicating with an external device or user. For example, control inputs for the light emitting elements 210 may be provided from an external device in wireless communication (not shown) with the light matrix 1. In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, with reference to Figures 2A, 2B and 3, the light matrix 1 may comprise a cable unit 800 comprising one or more electrical cables 810 and a connector plug 820 configured to connect the light matrix 1 to an external device. Thereby, information (control signals) and / or energy (electricity) may be transferred from an external device (not shown) to the light matrix 1.

[0056] In one embodiment, as shown throughout the figures, where the array 200 of light emitting elements 210 is an n×n array, the housing 100 preferably has a quadratic cross section.

[0057] As mentioned above, the housing 100 may comprise two parts, an upper housing portion 101 and a lower housing portion 102. However, it will be understood that in embodiments not shown, the housing may be formed as a single part. In still other embodiments, the housing may comprise three or more parts.

[0058] In either case, the housing 100 is preferably a box-shaped structure having a set of side walls 110 and preferably a bottom / end wall 110. Thus, at least a portion of the housing 100 has the shape of an open box prior to the attachment of other components. In this case, the bottom / end wall 110 is provided by the lower housing part 102, which has the shape of an open box prior to the attachment of other components. In this case, the upper housing part 101 is a tubular structure having side walls 110 and open top and bottom ends (prior to the attachment of other components). In this case, the bottom / end wall 110 is provided by the lower housing part 102, which has the shape of an open box prior to the attachment of other components. In this case, the upper housing part 101 is a tubular structure having side walls 110 and open top and bottom ends (prior to the attachment of other components). The side walls of the upper housing part 101 and the side walls 110 of the lower housing part 102 are configured to cooperate to collectively form the housing 100 when the upper housing part 101 and the lower housing part 102 are assembled.

[0059] The side wall 110 of the housing 100, and thereby the housing 100, has a top or front edge 130 that surrounds a top or front opening 140 of the housing 100. The front opening 140 is located opposite the end wall 120 within the housing 100.

[0060] In the embodiment shown herein, a top or leading edge 130 and a top or front opening 140 are provided on the upper housing portion 101 .

[0061] The light diffusing member 400 described above is disposed on and connectable to the housing 100 such that the light diffusing member 400 covers the front opening 140. In some embodiments, a lower or downwardly facing edge 470 of the light diffusing member 400 is configured to rest on the front edge 130 of the housing 100, as shown, for example, in Figure 2, and as shown in Figures 4 and 5. In other non-illustrated embodiments, light diffusing members are used, such as those shown in the figures and described below in connection with Figures 1-3. Alternatively, the structures shown in Figures 6A-D may be configured to be disposed between the inwardly facing sides of the side walls of the housing, or in the upper housing portion thereof.

[0062] In the embodiment shown herein, the light diffusing member 400 covers the front opening 140 in the upper housing portion 101, and a lower or downwardly facing edge 470 of the light diffusing member 400 is configured to rest on the front edge 130 of the upper housing portion 101 of the housing 100. Thus, the light diffusing member 400 and the housing 100 may be configured such that the sidewall 440 of the light diffusing member 400 is flush with the sidewall 110 of the housing 100, as shown, for example, in FIG.

[0063] As mentioned above, the optical matrix 1 comprises a partition grid 300. The partition grid 300 may be made of a light absorbing material. In some embodiments, the compartment grid 300 may be made of a black polymeric material.

[0064] The compartment grid 300 is disposed within the housing 100. The compartment grid 300 comprises a grid wall (also referred to as a compartment grid wall), two or more first compartment grid walls 310, and a second set of two or more second compartment grid walls 320. The first compartment grid walls 310 are arranged parallel to one another. The second compartment grid walls 320 are arranged parallel to one another. The first compartment grid wall 310 is disposed perpendicular to the second compartment grid wall 320. Thus, the first compartment grid wall 310 and the second compartment grid wall 320 intersect to form a compartment 330 therebetween.

[0065] Preferably, the partition grid 300 is configured such that there is one partition 330 for each light emitting element 210 in the array 200 of light emitting elements 210 .

[0066] The compartment grid 300 is further configured, for example as shown in Figures 4 and 5, such that the compartment grid walls 310, 320 enable the compartment grid 300 to extend from a surface on which the light-emitting element 210 is located (such as the top / upward-facing surface of the PCB 250) toward the front opening 140 of the housing 100, such as the bottom / lower / downward-facing surface of the light diffusing member 400.

[0067] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the compartment grid 300 may be a separate piece that is mounted within the housing 100 during the assembly stage of manufacturing the light matrix 1 .

[0068] However, in other embodiments, as described in more detail below, the compartment grid 300 may be formed together with the housing 100, for example in a two-stage injection molding process (a two-component molding process).

[0069] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 , the compartment grid 300 has two first compartment grid walls 310 and two intersecting second compartment grid walls 320, forming a grid or array of nine compartments 330 in an array of three walls 330, with only the central compartment 330 being closed on all sides, and the eight compartments 330 formed along the periphery of the compartment grid 300 being open in the sense that these compartments have an outer side facing the inner surface of the housing side wall 110 that is not covered by the walls (when assembled).

[0070] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, a "loose" compartment grid 300 as shown in Figure 3 may also have a first compartment grid wall 310 and a second compartment grid wall 320 formed along and facing the inner surface of the housing side wall 110, such that when assembled, all compartments 330 are laterally closed.

[0071] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1A-3, and with reference to Figures 4, 5, 7, 8A-8F, and A-9C, a compartment grid 300 comprises first compartment grid walls 310 and second compartment grid walls 320 formed along and facing the inner surface of the housing side wall 110, with the compartments 330 laterally closed. In this embodiment, the compartment grid 300 has four first compartment grid walls 310 and four intersecting second compartment grid walls 320 forming a grid or array of nine compartments 330 in a 3x3 arrangement, with all compartments closed on all four sides.

[0072] The housing 100 is provided with at least one modular connector 600 for connecting the optical matrix 1 to another building member of the modular construction system. For the illustrated embodiment, see Figs. 1 to 4. As shown in Figs. 2A, 2B, 3 and 7, the housing 100 is provided with six such modular connectors 600, two on the end wall 120 and two on each of the two opposing side walls 110 of the housing 100. In these embodiments, the modular connectors 600 are provided in the lower housing part 102. In other embodiments, the number of modular connectors 600 may be less or more. In other embodiments, one or more connectors may also be provided in the upper housing part 101. The modular connectors 600 are formed as recesses in and through the housing 100. The connectors are preferably connector openings. Preferably, the one or more modular connectors 600 are configured to cooperate and connect with various types of components of the modular construction. An example of a construction system having such connectors is known in the art as being sold by LEGO A / S under the trade name LEGO TECHNIC®.

[0073] Returning now to the compartment grid 300, an embodiment of which is shown in more detail, for example, in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the top of a light matrix modular construction system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The cross-section is taken along a side wall of the light matrix 1 housing 100.

[0074] In some embodiments, the compartment grid 300 is formed from a light absorbing material. In some embodiments, the compartment grid 300 is formed from a polymeric material. Preferably, the compartment grid 300 is formed from a polymeric material suitable for injection molding. In some embodiments, the compartment grid 300 is formed from a black polymeric material. Such materials include black ABS plastic, which has high light absorption and low light reflection properties, which helps to contain the light and prevent it from passing between the compartments 330 and through the outermost compartment grid walls 310, 320 and the exterior, side walls 110 of the housing 100.

[0075] The housing 100, or at least the upper housing portion 101, may be formed from a reflective polymeric material, preferably a polymeric material suitable for use in an injection molding process.

[0076] In some embodiments, the housing 100, or at least the upper housing portion 101 thereof, can further comprise an inner wall 150, as described in more detail below. Figure 4 is also made of a light-reflecting material. This material may be the same as that used for the housing 100 itself. In such a case, the black ABS plastic material (or a material with similar properties) of the compartment grid 300 prevents light from zig-zag traveling between the white reflective portions and the black portions, and between the (black) PCB 250 and the black compartment grid 300.

[0077] In all the embodiments described above and below, preferably the diffusion member 400 and the compartment grid 300 are assembled to avoid any air gaps between them. In practice, such air gaps may not be possible to completely eliminate due to manufacturing tolerances, etc. In such cases, the black color or other light absorbing properties of the compartment grid 300 may ensure that the light absorbing properties of the compartment grid 300 remain in some locations where air gaps exist between the top of the reflective inner wall and the diffusing member. 300 may always be on one side of these air gaps. This limits the amount of light that can "zig-zag" between the components, thereby limiting the amount of light that can leak between the compartments 330 and between the compartments 330 and the sidewalls 110 of the housing 100.

[0078] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the top of an optical matrix modular structural system according to the same embodiment of the present invention as FIG. 4, but in a different cross-sectional view than FIG.

[0079] Turning now to the diffusion member 400, a preferred embodiment is shown in Figures 6A through 6D.

[0080] Portions of the diffusing member 400 are preferably formed from a material that allows light to pass through while diffusing the light, or a transparent material that has been treated to impart light diffusing properties.

[0081] In one embodiment, the diffusing member 400 comprises a plurality of diffusing tiles 410. A diffusing tile 410 is provided in each compartment 330 of the compartment grid 300, covering the compartment 330 as it pertains.

[0082] In embodiments in which the diffusing member 400 comprises a plurality of diffusing tiles 410, the diffusing tiles are preferably formed from a material that allows light to pass through while diffusing the light, or a transparent material that has been treated to impart light diffusing properties.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, there are nine diffusion tiles 410 arranged in a regular 3 x 3 array. In general, however, the diffusion member is provided such that there is a diffusion tile 410 for each light emitting element 210. Similarly, the partition grid 300 described above is fabricated such that there is one partition for each light emitting element 210.

[0084] Each of the diffusion tiles 410 includes a front surface 420 , a back surface 430 , and sidewalls 440 .

[0085] The front surface 420 and the rear surface 430 are formed parallel to each other.

[0086] The sidewalls 440 of the diffusion tile 410 are formed perpendicular to the front surface 420 .

[0087] Because the diffusing tiles 410 are arranged in a regular two-dimensional array, some of the sidewalls 440 of the diffusing tiles 410 will face the sidewalls 440 of adjacent diffusing tiles 410, i.e., they have sidewalls 442 that face each other, and the diffusing tiles 410 formed along the edges of the diffusing member 400 also have sidewalls 442 that face outward, i.e., sidewalls that do not face other diffusing tiles 410.

[0088] As shown, the diffusing member 400 includes a diffusing grid 500 that provides a barrier between mutually facing sidewalls 442 of the diffusing tiles 410 .

[0089] The diffusion grid 500 is preferably made of a material different from that of the diffusion tiles 410 .

[0090] The diffusion grid 500 comprises an array of diffusion grid walls, a first diffusion grid wall 510 and an intersecting second diffusion grid wall 520 . The first diffusion grid wall 510 and the intersecting second diffusion grid wall 520 are aligned with the compartment grid walls 310, 320 of the compartment grid 300 when the diffusion member 400 is assembled with the housing and the compartment grid. Preferably, the compartment grid 300 and the diffusion member 400 are also assembled such that the diffusion grid walls 510, 520 abut the compartment grid walls 310, 320 to minimize the gap between them as described above. This may minimize or prevent light bleeding between the compartment 330 and the square light field or area provided by the diffusion tile 410.

[0091] Thus, the underside (or at least part of it) of the diffusion grid 500 is adapted to abut against the upper side (or at least part of it) of the partition grid 300. This means that the partition grid 300 and the diffusion grid 500 are separate entities, which abut against each other when the optical matrix 1 is assembled.

[0092] In some embodiments, as illustrated below, the diffusion grid 500 and the diffusion tiles are formed together as a single unit, for example in a two-step molding process.

[0093] In some embodiments, as exemplified below, the diffusion grid 500 and the diffusion tiles are formed together as a single unit, for example in a two-step molding process.

[0094] In some embodiments, the diffusion grid 500 may be formed of the same material as the housing 100 , or at least the same material as the sidewall 110 of the housing 100 .

[0095] 4 and 5, the outwardly facing sidewall 441 of the diffusing member 400, and in embodiments where the diffusing member 400 includes a diffusing tile 410, extends forward or above the leading edge 130 such that the outwardly facing sidewall 441 of the diffusing member 400 / diffusing tile 410 forms an extension of the sidewall 110 of the housing 100 in the plane of the sidewall 110 of the housing 100. The outwardly facing sidewall 441 of the diffusing member 400 / diffusing tile 410 is preferably disposed flush with the sidewall 110 of the housing 100.

[0096] Such an embodiment ensures that the light within the square light field or area defined by the compartment 330 is also visible to the side (perpendicular to the side wall 110 of the housing 100).

[0097] In principle, it will be understood that the diffusion member 400 as described above may, instead of being positioned so as to extend in front of the leading edge 130 of the housing 100, be positioned at the front opening 140 of the housing 100 with the side wall 110 of the housing 100 covering the outward-facing side wall 441 of the diffusion member 400 / diffusion tile 410.

[0098] In any of the above embodiments, each of the diffusion tiles 410 may comprise a body portion 415 and a compartment portion 460 extending downwardly from the body portion 415. The downwardly extending compartment portion 460 is configured to extend within the compartments 330 provided by the compartment grid 300. This may also be seen from Figure 4 or Figure 5.

[0099] On the diffusing tiles 410 located along the edges of the diffusing member 400 (i.e., diffusing tiles 412) and on the diffusing members 400 located at the corners of the diffusing member 400 (diffusing tiles 411), the body portion 415 of the diffusing tiles 410, 411, 412 may include a downwardly facing surface or edge 470 formed as a shelf between the body portion 415 and the compartment portion 460. This downwardly facing edge 470 may be configured to abut the front edge 130 of the housing 100 (in embodiments where the diffusing member 400 extends forward of the housing) or the upper edge of the compartment grid 300 (in embodiments where the diffusing member 400 is bounded by the sidewall 110 of the housing 100).

[0100] For example, as shown in Figures 6A and 6D, the diffusing tile 410 or body portion 415 is approximately square (as viewed in cross section parallel to the top / upward-facing surface 420 of the diffusing tile 410).

[0101] 6A and 6D , the compartments 460 of the diffusing tiles 410 are also approximately square (seen in cross section parallel to the top / upward facing surface 420 of the diffusing tiles 410). However, depending on whether the diffusing tile is located at a corner (diffusing tile 411), a side edge (diffusing tile 412), or on the interior of the array (diffusing tile 413) of the diffusing member 400, the compartments 460 may be positioned differently relative to the body portion 415.

[0102] The compartments 460 of the diffusion tile 410 have side surfaces. Some of the side surfaces 462 of the compartments 460 face the compartments 460 of the adjacent diffusion tiles 410. The compartments 460 formed on the diffusion tiles 411, 412 formed on the outer edges and corners of the diffusion member 400 have outward facing surfaces 461.

[0103] In some embodiments (particularly where the diffusing member 400 extends forward of the housing 100), the outwardly facing surfaces 461 of the sections 460 of the diffusing tiles 411, 412 formed on the outer edge of the diffusing member 400 are configured to be angled with respect to the outwardly facing sidewalls 441 of the diffusing tile 410. This achieves that light emitted from the light emitting elements 210 is also directed towards the sidewalls 441 of the diffusing tile 411. In a preferred embodiment, the angle between the sidewalls 441 of the diffusing tiles 411 and the corresponding outwardly facing surfaces is an acute angle.

[0104] 6A and 6C, the compartments 460 of the diffusion tiles 410, 411 formed at the outer corners of the diffusion member 400 may have a first surface 465 formed between the outwardly facing sides 461 of the outer corners of the diffusion member 400. The first surface 465 interconnects the two outwardly facing sides 461 of the compartment 460 .

[0105] The first surface 465 directs light emitted from the light emitting element 210 through the diffusing tile 410 towards a corresponding corner of the diffusing member 400. Preferably, the first surface 465 forms an angle of 45° with two adjacent outwardly facing sides 461.

[0106] In some embodiments, the diffusing tiles 410 of the diffusing member 400 may be formed as separate pieces and connected to form the diffusing member 400, for example by a diffusing grid 500 or other connecting member (not shown).

[0107] However, in a preferred embodiment, the diffusing member 400 comprising the diffusing tiles 410 and the diffusing grid 500 are formed as one integral unit, as shown for example in Figures 6A, 6C and 6D. In some embodiments, this may be achieved by the diffusing tiles 410 of the diffusing member 400 being interconnected by a tile connecting member 450 formed integrally with and of the same material as the diffusing tiles 410.

[0108] Thereby, the diffusion grid 500 may be formed in the spaces between the diffusion tiles 410 as a second stage of the two-stage molding process (two-component molding process), with the diffusion tiles 410 with the connecting members 450 being formed in a first stage of the two-stage molding process (two-component molding process). Alternatively, the diffusion grid 500 may be formed in a first stage of the two-stage molding process (two-component molding process), with the interconnected diffusion tiles 410 being formed in a second stage.

[0109] In some embodiments, for example as shown in Figures 6A, 6C, and 6D, the connecting members 450 are protrusions extending from the lower surface 430 of the diffusion tiles 410 at the corners of the diffusion tiles 410 where four adjacent diffusion tiles 410 meet.

[0110] 6A is a perspective view from the inside / internal / bottom side of a diffusion member 400 for a light matrix modular construction system according to one embodiment of the present invention, where the diffusion member is formed with nine diffusion tiles 410 in a regular two-dimensional array. In this case, the diffusion member 400 has four connecting members 450 connecting the nine diffusion tiles 410. Two of the four connecting members 450 are solid, and the other two of the four connecting members 450 have a circular hole 451 in the center that forms the entry point for injection molding the diffusion grid 500 in the second shot / stage of the two-component injection molding process. The connecting members 450 allow the diffusion member 400 to be molded with two entrances instead of nine entrances, which is very beneficial for such small injection molded plastic parts.

[0111] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the inner surfaces of the compartments 330 of the compartment grid 300 may be covered by inner walls 150. This is explained in further detail with reference to Figures 4, 5 and 8A-F.

[0112] First, it should be noted that these inner walls 150 may be made of a material different from the material used for the compartment grid 300 .

[0113] Preferably, the inner wall 150 is formed from a light reflective material.

[0114] In any case, in one embodiment, the inner wall 150 may be made from the same material as the housing 100 , or at least from the same material as the side wall 110 of the housing 100 .

[0115] In some embodiments (not shown), the inner wall 150, the housing 100 (or at least the side wall 110 of the housing 100), and the compartment grid 300 may be formed as separate individual pieces and then assembled.

[0116] In other embodiments (not shown), the inner walls 150 may be provided as a layer that is fabricated on the compartment grid 300 after formation, for example by coating the inside of the compartment grid 300 with a suitable material.

[0117] However, in a preferred embodiment, the inner wall 150 is integrally formed with the housing 100. For example, at least the side wall 110 of the housing 100 may be formed together with the inner wall 150 in a second injection molding stage of a two-stage molding process (two-component molding process), where the compartment grid 300 formed in the first injection molding stage of the two-stage molding process (two-component molding process) is used as a core for the second injection molding stage.

[0118] As shown in Figures 4, 5 and 8C, at least a portion of the inner wall 150 and / or the inwardly facing surface of the compartment 330 may be configured to taper outward in a direction away from the light emitting element 210 at the bottom of the compartment 330 and toward the diffusing member 400 at the leading edge 130 of the housing 100.

[0119] Figures 4 and 5 show the upper housing portion 101 of the housing 100, along with the arrangement of the compartment grid 300 and PCB 250 (with light emitting elements 210) relative thereto. However, a portion of the lower housing portion 102 is also shown in both Figures 4 and 5. As shown most clearly in Figure 5, the upper housing portion 101 may include a downwardly extending flange 111 that is slightly recessed (with respect to an outer surface of the sidewall 110 of the upper housing portion 101) and configured to cooperate with a flange 112 extending upwardly from the lower housing portion 102.

[0120] As best seen in Figures 8A, B, E and F, the upper housing part 101 may further comprise flexible / resilient legs 160 extending downwardly. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper housing part 101 comprises four legs 160. Each of the legs 160 is provided with a barb 165. An opening 170 is formed in and through the side wall 110 of the lower housing part 102, the opening 170 configured to receive the barb 165 of the corresponding leg 160 extending downwardly from the upper housing part 101. The barb-receiving opening 170 is shown, for example, in Figure 2A. The resilience of the legs 160 ensures that the barb 165 can be snap-fit ​​into the barb-receiving opening 170. By pressing the barb 165 inwards, the upper housing part 101 and the lower housing part 102 can be released from each other again.

[0121] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a bottom housing portion of a light matrix modular construction system according to one embodiment of the present invention, including an array of LEDs.

[0122] FIG. 7B is a perspective view showing the upper housing portion of the optical matrix modular construction system attached to the bottom housing portion of FIG. 7A.

[0123] 7A and 7B together show steps in the fabrication of an optical matrix according to the present invention.

[0124] 7A, the electronic components of the light matrix 1 are assembled in the lower housing portion 102. The cable unit 800 is connected to the PCB 250 having the light emitting elements 210. The PCB 250 having the light emitting elements 210 is placed. The light emitting element 210 is disposed within the lower housing portion 201 so as to face upward.

[0125] Next, the upper housing part 101 is connected to the lower housing part 102 to form the assembled housing 100 of the light matrix 1, as shown in FIG.

[0126] Although not shown in Figures 7A and 7B, a diffusion member 400 is also preferably attached to the upper / top housing part 101 prior to connecting the upper housing part 101 to the lower housing part 102.

[0127] The diffusion member 400 may first be ultrasonically welded onto the top / upper housing part 101. The combined diffusion member 400 and top / upper housing part 101 may then be snapped onto the bottom / lower housing part 102.

[0128] The top / upper housing portion 101 may also be referred to as the "light reflector housing."

[0129] Figure 8A is a top perspective view of an upper housing part of an optical matrix modular construction system having a partition grid disposed therein, and Figure 8B is a bottom perspective view of the upper housing part of Figure 8A.

[0130] 8B, 8E, and 8F, the compartment grid 300 may include one or more flanges 350 disposed along the sides of the compartment grid 300 and extending downwardly from the compartment grid 300. The purpose of the one or more flanges 350 is to prevent light from leaking laterally from the compartments 330 at the level of the PCB, and to prevent light from leaking through and downwardly through the sidewalls of the lower housing portion 102.

[0131] As shown in FIGS. 8B, 8E, and 8F, the compartment grid 300 includes two flanges 350 disposed along opposite sides of the compartment grid 300.

[0132] The bottom 340 of the compartment grid 300 is black. If this is selected, black plastic and a black PCBA are placed around the LEDs to provide limited light leakage / optimized light containment.

[0133] FIG. 9A shows a modular construction system light matrix with the diffusing member removed and illustrates the light pattern within the light matrix, FIG. 9B shows an upper housing portion including the diffusing element in a cross-sectional perspective view parallel to the side of the light matrix and illustrates the light pattern within the light matrix, and FIG. 9C shows an upper housing portion including the diffusing element in a diagonal cross-sectional perspective view from corner to corner of the light matrix and illustrates the light pattern within the light matrix.

[0134] The placement of the light emitting element 210 affects the light output. The light emitting element 210 is moved as far as possible towards the center of the PCB 250 (as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 9A).

[0135] The limitation is caused by the structure of the light reflecting inner wall 150. With an optimized position, the center of the light emitting element 210 has a straight line towards the edge of the diffusing member 400. In this way, as much of the emitted light as possible in the direction towards the edge of the diffusing member enters the diffusing member (see arrows 700 in Figures 9B and C).

[0136] It should be noted that the drawings and the above description show exemplary embodiments in a simple and schematic manner. Many specific mechanical details have not been shown, as those skilled in the art should be familiar with these details and would only unnecessarily complicate this description. For example, the specific materials used and the specific injection molding procedures have not been described in detail, as it is believed that those skilled in the art can find suitable materials and suitable processes for manufacturing the container according to the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 1. Light Matrix / Light Matrix Modular Structure System 100 Light Matrix Housing 101 Upper housing part 102 Lower housing part 110 Housing side wall 111 Downwardly extending flange of upper housing part 112 upwardly extending flange of lower housing portion 120 Housing end wall 130 Front edge of housing 140 Front opening of housing 150 Inner wall 160 Leg extending downward from the upper housing portion 165 A barb on a leg extending downward from the upper housing part 170 openings in lower housing portion for receiving barbs on legs extending downwardly from upper housing portion 200 Array of luminous members / array 210 Light emitting devices such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) 250 Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) 300 division grid 310 1st Block Grid Wall of Block Grid 320 Secondary Block Grid Wall of Block Grid 330 Compartments formed between the compartment grid walls of the compartment grid 350 Compartments formed between the compartment grid walls of the compartment grid 400 Light Diffusion Materials / Diffusion Materials 410 Diffusion Tile 411 Diffusion material / light diffusion material corner diffusion tile 412 Diffusion material / diffusion tile on the edge of light diffusion material 413 Diffusion tiles in the internal array of the light diffusing component 415 Diffusion Tile Body 420 Diffusion Tile Front 430 Diffusion Tile Rear / Back 440 The sidewall of the diffusion tile formed perpendicular to the front surface of the diffusion tile 441 Diffusion Tile Outward Sidewall 442 A side wall of a diffusion tile facing a side wall of another diffusion tile 450 Tile connecting parts, diffusion parts connecting parts diffusion tiles 460 Diffusion Tile Section 461 Outer surface of the partition of the diffusion tile formed at the outer edge and outer corner of the diffusion member 462 Side wall of the compartment facing the adjacent diffuser tile compartment 465 A first surface formed between the outward facing sides of the outward facing corner of the diffusing member 470 Downward edge 500 Diffusion Grid / Diffusion Grid for Diffusion Materials 510 Diffusion Grid 1st Diffusion Grid Wall 520 Diffusion Grid 2nd Diffusion Grid Wall 600 Module connector like coupling hole 800 Cable Unit 810 Electrical Cables 820 Coupling plug for coupling the light matrix to external devices 900 Prior Art Light Matrix 910 Prior art light matrix light housing part 920 Prior Art Light Matrix LED Array 925 Prior Art Light Matrix LED 930 Prior Art Light Matrix Grid 940 Prior Art Light Matrix Plates 950 Upper housing part of prior art light matrix 960 Upper frame of the prior art light matrix 970 Prior Art Light Matrix Diffuser 980 Prior Art Light Matrix Sections

Claims

1. A housing (100) having a side wall (110), an end wall (120), and a front edge (130) surrounding a front opening (140) of the housing (100) opposite the end wall (120); an array (200) of light emitting elements (210) disposed on a printed circuit board (250), the printed circuit board (250) being disposed within the housing (100); a partition grid (300) disposed on the housing (100) to form an array of partitions (330), the partitions (310, 320) having partition grid walls (310, 320) extending from the printed circuit board (250) toward the front opening (140) of the housing (100), one partition (330) corresponding to each of the light emitting elements (210); a light diffusing member (400) disposed in the front opening of the housing (100), The light diffusing member (400) comprises a plurality of diffusing tiles (410), each of the plurality of diffusing tiles covering a section (330) of the section grid (300); Each of the diffusion tiles (410) has a front surface (420), a rear surface (430), and a sidewall (440) formed perpendicular to the front surface (420); The light diffusing member (400) comprises a diffusion grid (500) that provides a barrier between mutually facing sidewalls (442) of the diffusion tiles (410); the diffusion grid (500) is made of a material different from that of the diffusion tiles (410); A light matrix modular construction system (1), wherein the lower side of said diffusion grid (500) is adapted to abut the upper side of said partition grid (300).

2. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 1, wherein the partition grid (300) is formed of a light-absorbing material.

3. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the diffusion grid (500) is formed of a light-absorbing material.

4. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the diffusion grid (500) is formed of an optically reflective material.

5. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 4, wherein the diffusion grid (500) is formed from the same material as the side wall (110) of the housing (100).

6. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the outward side wall (441) of the diffusion tile (410) extends forward of the leading edge (130) and forms a flush with the side wall (110) of the housing (100) as an extension thereof.

7. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 6, wherein each of the diffusion tiles (410) has a partition portion (460) extending within a partition (330) provided by the partition grid (300).

8. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 7, wherein the outward surface (461) of the partition portion (460) of the diffusion tile (410, 411, 412) formed on the outer edge of the optical diffusion member (400) is angled with respect to the outward side wall (441) of the diffusion tile (410).

9. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 7 or 8, wherein the partition (460) of the diffusion tile (410, 411) formed at the outer corner of the light diffusion member (400) has a first surface (465) formed between the outward surfaces (461) of the outer corner of the light diffusion member (400), and the first surface connects the two outward surfaces (460) of the partition (460).

10. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the diffusion tiles (410) are interconnected by tile connecting members (450) formed integrally with the diffusion tiles (410) and of the same material.

11. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the inner surface of the compartment (330) of the compartment grid (300) is covered by an inner wall (150) formed of a material different from the material of the compartment grid (300).

12. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 11, wherein the inner wall (150) is formed of an optically reflective material.

13. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in claim 11 or 12, wherein the inner wall (150) is formed integrally with the housing (100).

14. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the inner wall (150) slopes outwardly toward the light diffusing member (400).

15. An optical matrix modular structural system (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the optical diffusion member (400) comprises the diffusion grid (500), and the diffusion tile (410) is integrally formed as a unit that can be attached to the housing (100).

16. An optical matrix modular construction system (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the housing (100) has coupling openings (600) that inter-mate with coupling pegs of the modular construction system.

17. A housing (100) having a side wall (110), an end wall (120), and a front edge (130) surrounding a front opening (140) of the housing (100) opposite the end wall (120); an array (200) of light emitting elements (210) disposed on a printed circuit board (250), the printed circuit board (250) being disposed within the housing (100); a partition grid (300) disposed on the housing (100) to form an array of partitions (330), the partitions (310, 320) having partition grid walls (310, 320) extending from the printed circuit board (250) toward the front opening (140) of the housing (100), one partition (330) corresponding to each of the light emitting elements (210); a light diffusing member (400) disposed in the front opening of the housing (100), An outwardly facing side wall (441) of the light diffusing member (400) extends forward of the leading edge (130) and forms a flush extension of the side wall (110) of the housing (100), in a light matrix modular construction system (1).

18. The light diffusing member (400) comprises a plurality of diffusing tiles (410), each of the plurality of diffusing tiles covering a section (330) of the section grid (300); Each of the diffusion tiles (410) has a front surface (420), a rear surface (430), and a sidewall (440) formed perpendicular to the front surface (420); The light diffusing member (400) comprises a diffusion grid (500) that provides a barrier between mutually facing sidewalls (442) of the diffusion tiles (410); the diffusion grid (500) is made of a material different from that of the diffusion tiles (410); 18. The optical matrix modular construction system (1) according to claim 17, wherein the underside of the diffusion grid (500) is adapted to abut the upper side of the partition grid (300).

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