UV irradiation upward air disinfection device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a light-generating system 1000 having n1 light-generating devices 100 and an optical system 400, wherein the n1 light-generating devices 100 are configured to generate device light 101 having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm, where n1≧1, the n1 light-generating devices 100 include one or more laser devices, and the n1 light-generating devices 100 and the optical system 400 are configured to generate k1 beams 105 of the device light 101, each beam 105 having a first beam angle θ1 and a second beam angle θ2 perpendicular thereto. and two beam angles θ2, the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2 being defined by a full width at half maximum of the beam 105, one of the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2 being selected from a range of at least 5° and the other of the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2 being selected from a range of at most 2°, and k1≧1, and the light generation system 1000 is configured to generate system light 1001 including at least one beam 105 of device light 101.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a light-generating system and a method for treating a gas, such as air, or a surface. [Background technology]

[0002] Ultraviolet treatment devices are known in the art. For example, US 2014 / 0105784 describes a light source for use in a treatment device for treating a liquid, solid, or surface. The light source includes a light-emitting diode that emits a first component of ultraviolet (UV) light and a UV laser light source that emits a second component of UV light having a peak wavelength different from the peak wavelength of the first component of UV light. The first component of UV light and the second component of UV light are applied to treat the fluid or surface. The UV laser light source may include a laser light source and a frequency doubling component that receives light from the laser light source and converts the light to the second component of UV light. The treatment device includes the light source and a container that contains the fluid or solid surface to be treated.

[0003] WO 03 / 027569A discloses an edge-lit illumination device comprising a polarized light-emitting waveguide having polarization-selective outcoupling means including at least a volume hologram for selectively diffracting the guided light towards the exit face of the waveguide with high contrast and efficiency, wherein light emitted by the waveguide is selectively emitted to one side thereof and is highly polarized, highly collimated and uniformly dispersed across the exit face. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] UV light has been used for disinfection for over 100 years. Wavelengths between approximately 190 nm and 300 nm can be strongly absorbed by nucleic acids, which can cause defects in the genome of living organisms. While this may be desirable for inactivating (killing) bacteria and viruses, it may also have undesirable side effects for humans. Therefore, in environments where people may be present, such as offices, public transportation, movie theaters, restaurants, and stores, the options for radiation wavelength, radiation intensity, and duration of exposure may be limited, thus limiting disinfection capabilities. Particularly in such environments, additional disinfection measures may be advantageous to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as influenza or novel coronaviruses like COVID-19, SARS, and MERS.

[0005] It would be desirable to produce a system that offers an alternative approach to air treatment, such as disinfection. Furthermore, existing systems for disinfection may not be easily implemented in existing infrastructure, such as existing buildings, such as offices, hospitality areas, etc., and / or may not easily accommodate larger spaces. This may again increase the risk of contamination. Furthermore, integration into HVAC systems may not provide the desired effect and may appear to be relatively complicated. Furthermore, existing systems may be inefficient or relatively bulky, and may not easily be integrated into functional devices, such as lighting fixtures.

[0006] Other disinfection systems may use one or more anti-microbial and / or anti-viral agents to disinfect a space or object. Examples of such agents may be chemicals that may raise concerns. For example, the chemicals may be harmful to people or pets.

[0007] In embodiments, the disinfecting light may specifically comprise ultraviolet (UV) radiation (and / or optionally violet radiation), i.e., the light may have a wavelength selected from the ultraviolet wavelength range (and / or optionally the violet wavelength range). However, other wavelengths are not excluded herein. The ultraviolet wavelength range is defined as light within the wavelength range of 100 nm to 380 nm and can be divided into different types of UV light / UV wavelength ranges (Table 1). Radiation of different UV wavelengths may have different properties and, therefore, may be differently compatible with human presence and may be differently effective when used for disinfection (Table 1). [Table 1]

[0008] Each UV type / wavelength range may have different advantages and / or disadvantages. Relevant aspects may be (relative) germicidal effectiveness, (radiation-related) safety, and (resulting from its radiation) ozone generation. Depending on the application, a particular type of UV light, or a particular combination of UV light types, may be selected to perform better than other types of UV light. UV-A may be (relatively) safe and may inactivate (kill) bacteria, but may be less effective at inactivating (killing) viruses. UV-B may be (relatively) safe when low doses (i.e., low exposure times and / or low intensities) are used, may inactivate (kill) bacteria, and may be moderately effective at inactivating (killing) viruses. UV-B may also have the additional advantage that it can be effectively used in the production of vitamin D in human or animal skin. Near-UV-C may be relatively dangerous, but may effectively inactivate, and especially kill, bacteria and viruses. Far UV-C may also be effective at inactivating (killing) bacteria and viruses, but may be (rather) safe (relative to other UV-C wavelength ranges). Far UV light may produce some ozone, which may be harmful to humans and animals. Extreme UV-C may also be effective at inactivating (killing) bacteria and viruses, but may be relatively dangerous. Extreme UV-C may produce ozone, which may be undesirable if exposed to humans or animals. In some applications, ozone may be desirable and may contribute to disinfection, but in those cases, its shielding from humans and animals may be desirable. Thus, a "+" for ozone generation in the table means that ozone is produced, which may be particularly useful for disinfection applications, but which may be harmful to humans / animals if exposed to it. Thus, this "+" may actually be undesirable in many applications, but may be desirable in others.The types of light shown in the table above may be used in embodiments to sanitize air and / or surfaces.

[0009] The terms "inactivate" and "kill" in relation to a virus may, as used herein, refer in particular to damaging the virus so that it is no longer able to infect and / or grow in host cells, i.e., so that the virus may be (essentially) harmless after being inactivated or killed.

[0010] Thus, in embodiments, the light may have a wavelength in the UV-A range. In further embodiments, the light may have a wavelength in the UV-B range. In further embodiments, the light may have a wavelength in the near UV-C range. In further embodiments, the light may have a wavelength in the far UV-C range. In further embodiments, the light may have a wavelength in the extreme UV-C range. The near UV-C range, the far UV-C range, and the extreme UV-C range may be collectively referred to herein as the UV-C range. Thus, in embodiments, the light may have a wavelength in the UV-C range. In other embodiments, the light may comprise violet radiation.

[0011] Thus, the light or radiation described herein may also be referred to as disinfecting light.

[0012] Lighting systems for providing disinfecting light can suffer from the fact that radiation may be delivered to less desirable parts of a space, for example, where it may be desirable to prevent situations where the radiation is potentially harmful to humans.

[0013] It is therefore an aspect of the present invention to provide an alternative light-generating system (and method for treating gases or surfaces in a space), which preferably also at least partially obviates one or more of the above disadvantages. The present invention may aim to eliminate or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a light-generation system ("system") comprising: (i) n1 light-generating devices; and (ii) an optical system. In particular, the n1 light-generating devices may be configured to generate device light having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm. In particular, n1 is at least 1. In particular embodiments, n1≧2. In more particular embodiments, the n1 light-generating devices may comprise one or more laser devices. In particular, in embodiments, the n1 light-generating devices and the optical system may be configured to generate k1 beams of device light (beam-shaped). In particular embodiments, each beam may have a first beam angle (θ1) and a second beam angle (θ2) perpendicular thereto. In particular, the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be defined by the full width at half maximum of the beam. In certain embodiments, the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) are different, particularly in that one is greater than a predetermined value and the other is smaller than the predetermined value. In particular, in certain embodiments, the predetermined value may be selected from a range of 1.5 to 5°, such as 2 to 5°. In embodiments, one of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected from a range of at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected from a range of at most 2°. Furthermore, k1 may be at least 1, and more particularly, in embodiments, k1≧2. In embodiments, each of the k1 beams has an optical axis (Ok). Furthermore, in embodiments, the light-generating system may be configured to generate system light, particularly including at least one beam of device light.Therefore, in an embodiment, the present invention provides a light-generating system having n1 light-generating devices and an optical system, wherein (A) the n1 light-generating devices are configured to generate device light having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm, n1≧2, and the n1 light-generating devices include one or more laser devices; and (B) the n1 light-generating devices and the optical system are configured to generate k1 beams of (beam-shaped) device light, each beam having a first beam angle (θ1) and a second beam angle (θ2) perpendicular thereto. and two beam angles (θ2), wherein the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) are defined by full widths at half maximum of the beams, one of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) is selected from a range of at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) is selected from a range of at most 2°, and k1≧2; and (C) the light-generation system is configured to generate system light comprising at least one beam of device light.

[0015] Such a system may provide a beam that may skim (essentially horizontally) just below the ceiling and thus generally may not be obstructed by people. Therefore, the present invention may perform disinfection in a relatively safe manner. Furthermore, the present invention does not necessarily use lamellae, which may absorb light. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, it may be possible to steer the beam. Furthermore, the present invention may provide excellent collimation, which may not be available with LEDs. Furthermore, it may provide excellent spatial light distribution, i.e., vertical beam to horizontal beam aspect ratio, which may also not be available with LEDs. Furthermore, the use of frequency doubling or other upconversion methods may provide relatively high efficiency compared to short-wavelength UV light sources, such as UV-C LEDs or lasers, and may be much more efficient than LEDs, especially for low-UVC wavelength light, which may even be difficult to achieve with solid-state lasers or LEDs. Furthermore, the present invention may provide a UV-emitting upper air disinfection device.

[0016] As mentioned above, the light-generating system may comprise one or more light-generating devices, in particular at least two light-generating devices, and therefore the light-generating system comprises n1 light-generating devices, where in certain embodiments n1≧2.

[0017] The light-generating device may be configured, inter alia, to generate device light. In particular, the light-generating device may comprise a light source. The light source may be configured, inter alia, to generate source light. In embodiments, the device light may consist essentially of the device light. In other embodiments, the device light may consist essentially of converted source light. In yet other embodiments, the device light may comprise (unconverted) source light and converted source light. The source light may be converted to luminescent material light with a luminescent material and / or converted to upconverted light with an upconverter (see also below). The term "light-generating device" may also refer to multiple light-generating devices capable of providing device light with essentially the same spectral power distribution. In certain embodiments, the term "light-generating device" may also refer to multiple light-generating devices capable of providing device light with different spectral power distributions.

[0018] The term "light source" can in principle refer to any light source known in the art. It may be a conventional (tungsten) lamp, a low-pressure mercury lamp, a high-pressure mercury lamp, a fluorescent lamp, or an LED (light-emitting diode). In certain embodiments, the light source comprises a solid-state LED light source (such as an LED or a laser diode (or "diode laser")). The term "light source" may also refer to a plurality of light sources, such as 2 to 200 (solid-state) LED light sources. Thus, the term LED may also refer to a plurality of LEDs. Furthermore, the term "light source" may also refer in embodiments to so-called chip-on-board (COB) light sources. The term "COB" particularly refers to an LED chip in the form of a semiconductor chip that is not packaged or connected, but is directly mounted on a substrate such as a PCB. Thus, several light-emitting semiconductor light sources may be configured on the same substrate. In embodiments, a COB is a multi-LED chip configured together as a single lighting module.

[0019] The light source may have a light escape surface. For conventional light sources such as light bulbs or fluorescent lamps, the light escape surface may be the outer surface of a glass or quartz envelope. In the case of an LED, the light escape surface may for example be the LED die or, if a resin is applied to the LED die, the outer surface of the resin. In principle, the light escape surface could also be the end of a fiber. The term escape surface particularly relates to the part of the light source from which light actually leaves or escapes the light source. The light source is configured to provide a light beam. This light beam escapes from the light exit surface of the light source.

[0020] Similarly, the light-generating device may include a light-escape surface, such as an end window.Further, similarly, the light-generating system may include a light-escape surface, such as an end window.

[0021] The term "light source" may refer to a semiconductor light emitting device such as a light emitting diode (LED), a resonant cavity light emitting diode (RCLED), a vertical cavity laser diode (VCSEL), an edge-emitting laser, etc. The term "light source" may also refer to an organic light emitting diode (OLED), such as a passive matrix (PMOLED) or active matrix (AMOLED). In certain embodiments, the light source comprises a solid state light source (such as an LED or laser diode). In embodiments, the light source comprises an LED (light emitting diode). The term "light source" or "solid state light source" may also refer to a superluminescent diode (SLED).

[0022] The term LED can also refer to multiple LEDs.

[0023] The term "light source" may also refer to a plurality of (essentially identical (or different)) light sources, such as 2 to 2000 solid-state light sources. In embodiments, the light source may comprise one or more micro-optical elements (an array of microlenses) downstream of a single solid-state light source, such as an LED, or downstream of multiple solid-state light sources (i.e., shared, for example, by multiple LEDs). In embodiments, the light source may comprise an LED with on-chip optics. In embodiments, the light source comprises a single pixelated LED (with or without optics) (which, in embodiments, provides on-chip beam steering).

[0024] In embodiments, the light source may be configured to provide primary radiation for use as such, for example a blue light source such as a blue LED, or a green light source such as a green LED, and a red light source such as a red LED. Such LEDs, which may not include a luminescent material ("phosphor"), may be denoted direct color LEDs.

[0025] However, in other embodiments, the light source may be configured to provide primary radiation, with a portion of the primary radiation being converted to secondary radiation. The secondary radiation may be based on conversion by a luminescent material. Therefore, the secondary radiation may be referred to as luminescent material radiation. The luminescent material may be included in the light source, such as an LED with a luminescent material layer or dome containing the luminescent material. Such LEDs may be referred to as phosphor-converted LEDs or PC LEDs. In other embodiments, the luminescent material may be configured at some distance from the light source ("remote"), such as an LED with a luminescent material layer that is not in physical contact with the LED die. Thus, in certain embodiments, the light source may emit light at a wavelength selected from the range of 380 to 470 nm during operation. However, other wavelengths are possible. This light may be partially used by the luminescent material.

[0026] In embodiments, the light-generating device may comprise a luminescent material. In embodiments, the light-generating device may comprise a PC LED. In other embodiments, the light-generating device may comprise a direct LED (i.e., no phosphor). In embodiments, the light-generating device may comprise a laser device, such as a laser diode. In embodiments, the light-generating device may comprise a superluminescent diode. Thus, in certain embodiments, the light source may be selected from the group of laser diodes and superluminescent diodes. In other embodiments, the light source may comprise an LED.

[0027] The light source may be configured to generate a source light having, among other things, an optical axis (O), a beam shape (), and a spectral power distribution, which may, in embodiments, have one or more bands with bandwidths as known for lasers.

[0028] The term "light source" can therefore refer to the light-generating element itself, e.g., a solid-state light source, or to a package of one or more of the light-generating element, e.g., a solid-state light source, and an element containing a luminescent material and (other) optics, e.g., a lens, a collimator, etc. A light-converting element ("conversion element" or "converter") may have an element containing a luminescent material. For example, a solid-state light source, e.g., a blue LED, is itself a light source. A combination of a solid-state light source (e.g., a light-generating element) and a light-converting element optically coupled to the solid-state light source, e.g., a blue LED and a light-converting element, may also be a light source (but may also be referred to as a light-generating device). Thus, a white LED is a light source (but may also be referred to as a (white) light-generating device, for example).

[0029] The term "light source" as used herein may refer to light sources including solid state light sources such as LEDs or laser diodes or superluminescent diodes.

[0030] The term "light source" may (thus) in embodiments also refer to a light source that is (also) based on conversion of light, such as a light source in combination with a luminescence conversion material. The term "light source" may therefore also refer to a combination of an LED and a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the radiation of the LED, or a (diode) laser and a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the radiation of the (diode) laser.

[0031] In embodiments, the term "light source" may refer to a combination of a light source, such as an LED, and an optical filter that may change the spectral power distribution of the light generated by the light source. In particular, the term "light-generating device" may be used to refer to a light source and further optical components, such as optical filters and / or beam shaping elements.

[0032] The phrases "different light sources" or "multiple different light sources" and similar phrases may, in embodiments, refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from at least two different bins. Similarly, the phrases "same light source" or "multiple identical light sources" and similar phrases may, in embodiments, refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from the same bin.

[0033] The terms "solid state light source" or "solid state material light source" and similar terms may refer to semiconductor light sources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), diode lasers, or superluminescent diodes, among others.

[0034] In particular, the n1 light-generating devices comprise laser light sources.

[0035] The term "laser source" refers in particular to a laser. Such a laser may be configured to generate laser source light having one or more wavelengths in the UV, visible, or infrared, in particular having a wavelength selected from the spectral wavelength range of 200 to 2000 nm, such as 300 to 1500 nm. The term "laser" refers in particular to a device that emits light through a process of light amplification based on stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation.

[0036] In particular, in embodiments, the term "laser" may refer to a solid-state laser. In certain embodiments, the term "laser" or "laser source," or similar terms, refers to a laser diode (or diode laser).

[0037] Thus, in an embodiment, the light source comprises a laser light source. In an embodiment, the term "laser" or "solid state laser" or "solid state material laser" refers to a laser source such as a cerium-doped lithium strontium (or calcium) aluminum fluoride (Ce:LiSAF, Ce:LiCAF), a chromium-doped chrysoberyl (alexandrite) laser, a chromium ZnSe (Cr:ZnSe) laser, a divalent samarium-doped calcium fluoride (Sm:CaF) laser, an Er:YAG laser, an erbium-doped and erbium-ytterbium cobalt fluoride (Er:YAG) ... Doped glass lasers, F-center lasers, holmium (Ho:YAG) lasers, Nd:YAG lasers, NdCrYAG lasers, neodymium-doped yttrium calcium oxoborate Nd:YCa4O(BO3)3 or Nd:YCOB, neodymium-doped yttrium orthovanadate (Nd:YVO4) lasers, neodymium-glass (Nd:glass) lasers, neodymium YLF (Nd:YLF) solid-state lasers, promethium-147-doped phosphate glass (147Pm 3+ :glass) solid-state laser, ruby ​​laser (Al2O3:Cr 3+ ), thulium YAG (Tm:YAG) laser, titanium sapphire (Ti:sapphire; Al2O3:Ti 3+ ) lasers, trivalent uranium-doped calcium fluoride (U:CaF2) solid-state lasers, ytterbium-doped glass lasers (rod, plate / chip and fiber), ytterbium YAG (Yb:YAG) lasers, Yb2O3 (glass or ceramics) lasers, etc.

[0038] For example, including embodiments for second and third harmonic generation, the light source may be an F center laser, an yttrium orthovanadate (Nd:YVO4) laser, a promethium-147 doped phosphate glass (147Pm 3+ :glass), and titanium sapphire (Ti:sapphire; Al2O3:Ti 3+ ) lasers. For example, taking into account second and third harmonic generation, such a light source can be used to generate blue light.

[0039] In embodiments, the terms "laser" or "solid state laser" or "solid state material laser" may refer to one or more of semiconductor laser diodes, such as GaN, InGaN, AlGaInP, AlGaAs, InGaAsP, lead salt, vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), quantum cascade laser, hybrid silicon laser, etc.

[0040] A laser may be combined with an upconverter to reach shorter (laser) wavelengths. For example, upconversion can be achieved with some (trivalent) rare earth ions or with nonlinear crystals. In another example, a laser, such as a dye laser, can be combined with a downconverter to reach longer (laser) wavelengths.

[0041] As can be derived from the following, the term "laser light source" can also refer to a plurality of (different or identical) laser light sources. In certain embodiments, the term "laser light source" can refer to a plurality of N (identical) laser light sources. In embodiments, N=2 or more. In certain embodiments, N can be at least 5, such as in particular at least 8. In this way, higher brightness can be obtained. In embodiments, the laser light sources may be arranged in a laser bank (see also above). The laser bank may, in embodiments, include a heat sink and / or optics, e.g., a lens for collimating the laser light. Thus, in embodiments, the lasers in a laser bank may share the same optics.

[0042] The laser light source is configured to generate laser light source light (or "laser light"). The light source light may consist essentially of the laser light source light. The light source light may also comprise laser light source lights of two or more (different or the same) laser light sources. For example, the laser light source lights of the two or more (different or the same) laser light sources may be coupled into a light guide to provide a single light beam comprising the laser light source lights of the two or more (different or the same) laser light sources. Thus, in certain embodiments, the light source light is in particular collimated light source light. In yet other embodiments, the light source light is in particular (collimated) laser light source light.

[0043] The laser source light may, in embodiments, have one or more bands, with a bandwidth as known for lasers. In certain embodiments, the bands may be relatively sharp lines, such as those with a full width half maximum (FWHM) at room temperature (RT) in the range of less than 20 nm, such as 10 nm or less. Thus, the source light has a spectral power distribution (intensity in energy scale as a function of wavelength) that may include one or more (narrow) bands.

[0044] The (source light) beam may be a focused or collimated beam of (laser) source light. The term "focused" may in particular refer to converging to a small spot. This small spot may be at a discrete converter region or (slightly) upstream or (slightly) downstream of the discrete converter region. In particular, the 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) is not substantially larger than the cross-sectional shape (perpendicular to the optical axis) of the discrete converter region (at the location where the source light illuminates the discrete converter region). Focusing may be performed by one or more optical systems, such as (focusing) lenses. In particular, two lenses may be applied to focus the laser source light. Collimation may be performed by one or more (other) optical systems, such as collimating elements, such as lenses and / or parabolic mirrors. In embodiments, the beam of (laser) source light may in embodiments be relatively highly collimated, such as ≦2° (FWHM), more particularly ≦1° (FWHM), and most particularly ≦0.5° (FWHM). Thus, ≦2° (FWHM) may be considered as (highly) collimated source light. Optical systems may be used to provide the (highly) collimated light (see also above).

[0045] The term "solid state laser" and similar terms may refer to solid state lasers such as those based on crystals or glasses doped with ions such as transition metal and / or lanthanide ions, fiber lasers, photonic crystal lasers, semiconductor lasers such as vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs), and the like.

[0046] The term "solid-state light source" and similar terms may refer to semiconductor light sources such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), diode lasers, or superluminescent diodes, among others.

[0047] Instead of the term "solid-state light source," the term "semiconductor-based light source" may also be applied. Thus, the term "semiconductor-based light source" may refer to, for example, one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), a diode laser, and a superluminescent diode.

[0048] Thus, the light-generating device may include one or more of a light-emitting diode (LED), a diode laser, and a superluminescent diode.

[0049] As mentioned above, in particular, the n1 light-generating devices may comprise one or more laser devices, more particularly diode lasers. This may provide a relatively high intensity and may also allow for a desired collimation (in a certain direction). The device light generated by the n1 light-generating devices may therefore comprise laser light. In particular, in embodiments, the device light of the n1 light-generating devices is laser light. The one or more laser devices, in particular n laser devices, may be laser diodes. However, other embodiments are also possible (see above). Furthermore, other devices, such as LEDs, may also be possible.

[0050] In particular, the device light is UV radiation. In an embodiment, the n1 light-generating devices may be configured to generate device light having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm. As mentioned above, such device light may be harmful to bacteria and / or viruses and may therefore have a disinfecting function. Therefore, the system may also be referred to as a "disinfection system" or a "disinfection light-generating system."

[0051] Furthermore, optical systems may be used to create the desired beam shape (see also above and below). To this end, the light-generation system may further comprise an optical system. In general, the term "optical system" may refer, inter alia, to (one or more) optical elements. Thus, the terms "optical system" and "optical element" may refer to the same thing. The optical system may include one or more of: mirrors, reflectors, collimators, lenses, prisms, diffusers, phase plates, polarizers, diffractive elements, diffraction gratings, dichroics, arrays of one or more of the foregoing, etc. Alternatively, or in addition, the term "optical system" may refer to a holographic element or a mixing rod. In embodiments, the optical system may include one or more of: beam expander optics and zoom lens optics. See further above for examples of optical systems. In embodiments, the optical system may comprise an integrator, such as a "Köhler integrator" (or "Köhler integrator").

[0052] In particular, the n1 light-generating devices and the optical system may be configured to generate k1 beams of device light (beam-shaped). In particular, the beam-shaped device light may have a cross section that is relatively wide in one direction and relatively narrow in the opposite direction. This may enable a narrow beam of light that may propagate along a ceiling and remain close to the ceiling. The system light may include at least one beam of device light.

[0053] Thus, if k1=1, the system light may comprise this beam of light (in the operating mode of the system).

[0054] The system light may comprise all k1 beams of light in the system's operational mode, where k1 is at least 2. However, in other embodiments, the system light may comprise one or more of the k1 beams of light in the operational mode.

[0055] In an embodiment, each beam has a first beam angle (θ1) and a second beam angle (θ2) perpendicular thereto. In particular, the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be defined by the full width at half maximum of the beam. As known in the art, the maximum value may be a maximum value related to power (watts), in particular, based on irradiance.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) differ, particularly in that one is greater than a predetermined value and the other is less than the predetermined value. In particular, in certain embodiments, the predetermined value may be selected from the range of 1.5 to 5°, more particularly from the range of 2 to 5°. For example, one beam angle may be less than 2° and the other beam angle may be greater than 5°, such as at least 10°. In particular, θ1 / θ2 may be greater than 2 or less than 0.5. Thus, the phrase "the predetermined value may be selected from the range of 1.5 to 5°" and similar phrases may also include embodiments in which one of the beam angles is less than 1.5° and the perpendicular beam angle is at least 6°, since there is a predetermined value selected from the range of 1.5 to 5° for which one of the beam angles is smaller and the other beam angle is greater than the predetermined value. In certain embodiments, one beam angle may be at least 10°, such as at least 15°. Thus, the present invention can provide beams with narrow, elongated cross-sections, i.e., relatively high aspect ratios, such as greater than 2 or less than 0.5, or even greater than 4 or less than 0.25.

[0057] In an embodiment, one of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected from a range of at least 4°, more particularly at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected from a range of at most 3°, more particularly at most 2.5°, such as 2° or less.

[0058] In certain embodiments, one of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected from a range of at least 10°, and the other of the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected from a range of at most 1.5°. Note that when k1 is at least 2, the first beam angles of different beams may all be the same, or two or more may be the same and one or more may be different therefrom. Similarly, when k1 is at least 2, the second beam angles of different beams may all be the same, or two or more may be the same and one or more may be different therefrom. Thus, the first beam angle (θ1) and the second beam angle (θ2) may be selected individually for different beams.

[0059] In an embodiment, n1≧1. In an embodiment, n1≧2. Furthermore, in an embodiment, k1≧1. In an embodiment, k1≧2. In particular, in an embodiment, k1=n1.

[0060] Since there may be multiple beams, it may be desirable to provide this in a manner that allows the multiple beams to have relatively horizontal propagation, such as grazing a ceiling. Thus, in embodiments, the optical axes of the beams may be arranged to be parallel. Alternatively, or in addition, the optical axes may be arranged in a single plane. The latter may include embodiments such as parallel beams or radially oriented beams.

[0061] In certain embodiments, a single radial beam may be provided, such as based on a single light-generating device, and thus, in such embodiments, one of θ1 and θ2 may be 360°.

[0062] In other embodiments, the plurality of beams may provide a substantially radial beam. For example, k1 beams may be provided, where the second beam angle of one of θ1 and θ2 is within a range of about 360° / k1. In such embodiments, the plurality of k1 beams, where k1 is at least 2, may provide a radial beam (or a radially configured beam).

[0063] In yet other embodiments, k2 sets of beams may be provided, and within each set the optical axes of the beams may be parallel. For example, k2 may be 2, 4, or 6, providing sets of beams where the optical axes of adjacent sets have a mutual angle of 360° / k2. The optical axes may therefore be considered to be arranged antiparallel.

[0064] However, deviations therefrom may be possible. Thus, in an embodiment, each of the k1 beams may have an optical axis (Ok), said optical axes (Ok) pointing to each other at their vertices and arranged in space (as aligned in the embodiment) between two imaginary cones (with parallel, in particular coincident, cone axes) with apex angles selected in the range of 160 to 180°, more in particular 170 to 180°. In a particular embodiment, each beam is connected at its (imaginary) vertex and individually extends over a distance of 330 to 360 square degrees (deg). 2), more particularly in the negative space between two imaginary cones (or double (truncated) cones) with an apex angle selected from the range of 340 to 360 square degrees. It should be noted that the single beam may also be a radial beam. Furthermore, a single beam may generally satisfy the above condition in any case. The above condition may be particularly relevant when k1 is greater than 1.

[0065] Since the light-generating system may not be a point source, a truncated cone may be used instead of a cone. Therefore, in a (broader) embodiment, each of the k beams may have an optical axis (Ok), which point to each other at their (virtual) vertices and are individually arranged in the space between (in an embodiment, aligned) two virtual truncated cones (with parallel, particularly coincident, cone axes) with apex angles selected from the range of 160 to 180°, more particularly 170 to 180°. The truncated cones may in particular be right circular cones. Such a truncated cone may define a cylindrical space between two smaller bases (where the cone is truncated). In a specific embodiment, such a cylindrical space may be a (virtual) cylinder, more particularly a minimal (virtual) cylinder, surrounding the light exit window of the system.

[0066] Even more broadly, particularly when k1 is at least 2, the optical axes may have essentially any angle in a radial plane, while the angles with the plane perpendicular to such radial plane may be relatively small. Referring to an embodiment in which multiple beams are provided substantially parallel to a horizontal ceiling, for example, θ1 may be the beam angle in the plane parallel to the ceiling, and θ2 may be the beam angle in the plane perpendicular to the ceiling. In such an embodiment, the mutual angles between the optical axes projected onto the plane parallel to the ceiling may be essentially any value, while the mutual angles between the optical axes projected onto the plane perpendicular to the ceiling may be relatively small, with a maximum mutual angle of 10° or less, such as 15° or less. In certain embodiments, the mutual angles between the optical axes projected onto the plane perpendicular to the ceiling may be a maximum mutual angle of 5° or less. Therefore, in an embodiment, the mutual angle between the optical axes projected onto a first plane can have essentially any value, whereas the mutual angle between the optical axes projected onto a second plane perpendicular to the first plane can have a maximum mutual angle of 15° or less, such as 10° or less.

[0067] In certain embodiments, k1≧2, and each beam may have an optical axis (Ok), where the (k1) optical axes (Ok) have a third angle (θ3) with respect to an imaginary plane, the third angle (θ3) being selected from the range of 0 to 15°. For example, referring to the example above, the imaginary plane may be parallel to the horizontal ceiling. For different beams, the third angle may be different.

[0068] In particular, the optical axis may be defined as an imaginary line defining a path along which light propagates in the system starting from the light generating element, here in particular the light source. In particular, the optical axis may coincide with the direction of light with the highest radiant flux.

[0069] Furthermore, the light-generating system may be configured to generate system light comprising at least one beam of device light. Depending on whether two or more of the beams can be individually controlled, or whether different sets of beams can be individually controlled, the system light may comprise one or more beams of device light. Of course, if k1=1, the system light may comprise a single beam of device light.

[0070] The UV radiation may be provided by itself or may be the result of an upconversion process. Thus, in embodiments, a visible or infrared laser may be used in combination with one or more frequency-doubling or upconversion luminescent materials to provide UV (laser) light. Thus, in embodiments, the n1 light-generating devices may include one or more first light sources configured to generate first source light of infrared or visible light and an upconverter material, where the one or more first light sources and the upconverter material are configured to generate the device light having a wavelength within a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm. Frequency doubling may also refer to tripling the frequency or one or more of doubling and tripling (here referring only to 2x). In certain embodiments, the one or more first light sources may include solid-state light sources, particularly laser diodes.

[0071] However, in other embodiments, a direct UV emitting light source, more particularly a (direct) UV emitting laser, such as a UV diode laser, may also be applied. Thus, in embodiments, the n1 light-generating devices may comprise one or more second light sources configured to generate second source light having a wavelength in the wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm, and the device light may comprise the second source light. In particular embodiments, the one or more second light sources may comprise solid-state light sources, in particular laser diodes.

[0072] In embodiments of the present invention, it may also be possible to provide light with different spectral power distributions. For example, a light-generating device may be configured to generate UV radiation with an intensity at a smaller wavelength than another light-generating device. As can be derived from the table above, this may increase the versatility of the light-generating system. For example, in this way, it may be possible to disinfect a wider variety of bacteria and / or a wider variety of viruses.

[0073] Thus, in embodiments, two or more light-generating devices may be configured to generate device light having different centroid wavelengths that differ by at least 10 nm, more particularly at least 15 nm. In particular embodiments, two or more light-generating devices may be configured to generate device light having different centroid wavelengths that differ by at least 20 nm, such as at least 25 nm, and in particular embodiments, at least 30 nm.

[0074] The term "centroid wavelength," also denoted λc, is known in the art and refers to the wavelength value where half of the light energy is at shorter wavelengths and half of the light energy is at longer wavelengths, and the value is given in nanometers (nm). It is the wavelength that halves the integral of the spectral power distribution, as expressed by the formula λc = Σλ × I(λ) / (ΣI(λ)), where the sum is over the wavelength range of interest and I(λ) is the spectral energy density (i.e., the integral of the product of wavelength and intensity over the emission band normalized to the integrated intensity). The centroid wavelength may be determined, for example, under operating conditions.

[0075] In certain embodiments, two or more light-generating devices may be configured to generate device light within different wavelength ranges selected from a UV-A wavelength range, a UV-B wavelength range, a near UV-C wavelength range, and a far UV-C wavelength range.

[0076] In embodiments, k1 may be at least 2. When there are two or more beams, it may be desirable for the two or more beams to propagate substantially parallel. For example, in embodiments, two or more light-generating devices are configured such that the k1 beams have a parallel first beam angle (θ1) and / or a parallel second beam angle (θ2). Thus, the optical axes may be essentially parallel. In other examples, the optical axes may be essentially in a plane, for example, configured at an angle relative to each other. For example, in this manner, it may be possible to provide a substantially radial beam of light from a device composed of multiple beams of light. In yet other examples (see also below), it may be possible to provide a single beam of light having a radial shape.

[0077] In embodiments, the system may have a light exit, such as an end window or (other) optical element (of a material transparent to the device light, e.g., quartz), or an aperture through which the system light may escape to the outside of the system. The system may also have a housing containing such a light exit. The housing may at least partially enclose one or more light-generating devices and one or more (other) optical elements.

[0078] In certain embodiments, the light-generating system may include a light output through which the system light can exit the system, and the beam width (W2) of the k1 beams at the light output, as defined by the first beam angle (θ1), may be at least 1 cm. The beams exiting the light output may be sufficiently wide to provide high safety.

[0079] The beams are provided in an array, such as a rectangular array. Thus, in embodiments, k1≧4, more particularly k1≧5, and the light-generation system is configured to generate an N×M array of the beams of device light, where N≧2 and M≧2. In embodiments, N may be greater than M. In embodiments, a larger number N may provide an array of beams parallel to the largest angle between the first beam angle and the second beam angle.

[0080] In particular, the beam of light escaping the system may provide a wide beam in one direction (such as in a ceiling-parallel application) but a relatively narrow beam in the opposite direction (such as in a ceiling-perpendicular application). In the case of multiple beams, it may be desirable that the overall height defined by the beams may be relatively small, while the width may be relatively large. Two or more beams may provide a maximum width W3 at the exit and a maximum height H3 at the exit. The maximum width and the maximum height may (also) be given by full width at half maximum (of different beams). In particular, W3 / H3≧2, such as W3 / H3≧5.

[0081] Examples of optical systems are also provided above. In certain embodiments, the optical system may include at least collimating optics. Furthermore, for example, diffractive optics, or refractive optics, or a combination thereof, may be used to (further) shape the beam of device light.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the optical system may include (i) a first optical system and (ii) a second optical system, where the first optical system includes a lens configured to collimate the device light and the second optical system includes one or more of a diffractive optical system and a refractive optical system configured to shape the beam, particularly with a higher aspect ratio than upstream of the second optical system. For example, such an optical system may be used in combination with a laser device including a laser diode.

[0083] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the positioning of an item or feature relative to the propagation of light from a light generating means (here, in particular the light source), such that relative to a first position in the light beam from the light generating means, a second position in the light beam that is closer to the light generating means is "upstream" and a third position in the light beam that is further away from the light generating means is "downstream".

[0084] Using diffractive or refractive optics it may (further) be possible to generate a substantially linear beam of (laser) device light, however using diffractive or refractive optics it may (further) be possible to generate a substantially circular beam of (laser) device light.

[0085] A substantially circular beam of (laser) device light may be converted into a radial beam of (laser) device light, for example in combination with a conical specular reflector. The n1 light-generating devices and optics are configured to generate radially configured beams of (beam-shaped) device light. In certain embodiments, n1 = k1 = 1 (when the beams are radial beams). The radial beams may provide device light in substantially any direction (within a (virtual) plane).

[0086] Where there is a controllable element and / or where there are multiple individually controllable elements, a control system may for example be used to control the controllable elements, e.g., the control system may control l1 sets of light-generating devices, each set having at least one light-generating device, where l1 is at least two.

[0087] The term "control" and similar terms refer, inter alia, to at least determining the behavior of an element or supervising the operation of an element. Thus, in this specification, the term "control" and similar terms may refer to imposing a behavior on the element (determining the behavior of an element or supervising the operation of an element), such as, for example, measuring, indicating, activating, opening, shifting, changing temperature, etc. The term "control" and similar terms may further include monitoring as well. Thus, the term "control" and similar terms may include imposing a behavior on an element, and may also include imposing a behavior on an element and monitoring the element. Control of the element may be performed by a control system, sometimes denoted a "controller." Thus, the control system and the element may be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. The element may comprise the control system. In embodiments, the control system and the element may not be physically coupled. Control may be performed via wired and / or wireless control. The term "control system" may also refer to a plurality of different control systems, particularly those that are functionally coupled, where, for example, one control system of the plurality of different control systems may be a master control system and one or more other control systems may be slave control systems. A control system may have a user interface or be functionally coupled to a user interface.

[0088] The control system may also be configured to receive and execute instructions from a remote control device. In an embodiment, the control system may be controlled via an app on a device, such as a portable device like a smartphone or iPhone, tablet, etc. Thus, the device is not necessarily coupled to the lighting system, but may be (temporarily) functionally coupled to the lighting system.

[0089] Thus, in embodiments, the control system may (also) be configured to be controlled by an app on a remote device. In such embodiments, the control system of the lighting system may be a slave control system or may be controlled in slave mode. For example, the lighting systems may be identifiable by a code, in particular a unique code for each lighting system. The control system of the lighting system may be configured to be controlled by an external control system that accesses the lighting system based on knowledge entered by a user interface comprising an optical sensor of the (unique) code (e.g. a QR code reader). The lighting system may also have means for communicating with other systems or devices, e.g. based on Bluetooth, WIFI, LiFi, ZigBee, BLE or WiMAX, or another wireless technology.

[0090] The system, or apparatus, or device may perform an operation in a "mode" or "operational mode" or "mode of operation" or "operable mode." The term "operational mode" may also be indicated as "control mode." Similarly, in a method, an operation, or a phase, or a step may be performed in a "mode" or "operational mode" or "mode of operation" or "operable mode." This does not exclude that the system, or apparatus, or device may also be adapted to provide another control mode or multiple other control modes. Likewise, this may not exclude that one or more other modes may be performed before and / or after performing the mode.

[0091] However, in embodiments, a control system may be available that is adapted to provide at least said control mode. If other modes are available, the selection of such a mode may in particular be performed via a user interface, although other options may also be possible, such as performing the mode depending on a sensor signal or a (time) scheme. Said operating mode may also refer in embodiments to a system, apparatus, or device that can only operate in a single operating mode (i.e., "on", without further adjustability).

[0092] Thus, in embodiments, the control system may depend on one or more of a user interface input signal, a sensor signal (of a sensor), and a timer, where the term "timer" may refer to a clock and / or a predetermined timing scheme.

[0093] Thus, in an embodiment, the system may further comprise a control system, in particular the control system may be configured to control the n1 light-generating devices.

[0094] In embodiments, the control system may rely on sensors to control the system lights. In embodiments, the sensors may be selected from a group including a motion sensor, a presence sensor, a distance sensor, an ion sensor, a gas sensor, a volatile organic compound sensor, a pathogen sensor, an airflow sensor, a sound sensor, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor. The motion sensor may be used to detect people. The motion sensor may also be used to detect the number of people. The motion sensor may also be used to detect people's activity level (e.g., occupancy or non-occupancy of a work room or fitness room). The presence sensor may be used to detect people. The presence sensor may also be used to detect people's activity level (e.g., occupancy or non-occupancy of a work room or fitness room). The distance sensor may be used to detect one or more dimensions of a space for which the ionizer device is used. The distance sensor may also be used to detect the distance between people. The ion sensor may include a positive ion sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the ion sensor may include a negative ion sensor. The ion sensor may be used to detect the effectiveness of the ionizer device (the more ions, the better the potential for air treatment). The gas sensor may be used to detect one or more gas components. The gas sensor may be used to detect whether ventilation is sufficient or insufficient. (Thus,) the gas sensor may also be used to detect, for example, the number of people and / or the activity level of people. The volatile organic compound (VOG) sensor may be used to detect one or more volatile organic compounds. The VOG sensor may be used to detect whether ventilation is sufficient or insufficient. (Thus,) the VOG sensor may also be used to detect, for example, the number of people and / or the activity level of people. The pathogen sensor may have sensors for one or more of bacteria, viruses, and spores. The pathogen sensor may be used to detect whether ventilation is sufficient or insufficient. (Thus,) the pathogen sensor may also be used to detect, for example, the number of people and / or the activity level of people. The airflow sensor may be used to detect airflow.An airflow sensor may be used to detect whether ventilation is sufficient or insufficient. (Therefore) an airflow sensor may also be used to detect, for example, the number of people and / or the activity level of people. A sound sensor may be used to detect sound. A sound sensor may be used to detect whether ventilation is sufficient or insufficient. (Therefore) a sound sensor may also be used to detect, for example, the number of people and / or the activity level of people. A temperature sensor may be used to detect temperature, based on which it may be determined whether a pathogen is likely to be more or less harmful. A humidity sensor may be used to detect humidity (of the air), based on which it may be determined whether a pathogen is likely to be more or less harmful (as there appears to be a relationship between humidity and the transferability of, for example, airborne pathogens).

[0095] If controllable optics are available, the control system may be (further) configured to control the controllable optics. Thus, in an embodiment, the control system may be configured to control one or more of: (i) the n1 light-generating devices; and (ii) optional controllable optics, the optional controllable optics being configured to control the propagation direction of at least one of the k1 beams.

[0096] In embodiments, controllable optics may be applied, such as, for example, a lens with a controllable focus or a mirror that can be rotated. By controlling such optics, the shape and / or direction of the beam may be controlled. Thus, in embodiments, the control system is configured to change one or more of the direction and shape of the at least one beam by controlling the controllable optics. The term "controllable" may in particular indicate that an element may be electrically controlled, for example, via an actuator or by applying a voltage to a material.

[0097] In certain embodiments, it may be desirable for the UV radiation to be visible. For example, visible light may be mixed into the UV radiation and / or a visible light edge may be provided to the UV radiation. Thus, in embodiments, the system may also include a source of visible light. Such visible light may be provided by converting a (small) portion of the UV radiation and / or by a separate light-generating device (denoted the "second light-generating device"). The latter embodiment is particularly described below, as it may allow for control of the visible light essentially independent of the UV radiation. The visible light may be white light or colored light. In certain embodiments, the visible light may be violet light.

[0098] The term "violet light" or "violet emission" particularly refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 380 to 440 nm. The term "blue light" or "blue emission" particularly refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 440 to 495 nm (including some purple and cyan hues). The term "green light" or "green emission" particularly refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 495 to 570 nm. The term "yellow light" or "yellow emission" particularly refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 570 to 590 nm. The term "orange light" or "orange emission" particularly refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 590 to 620 nm. The term "red light" or "red emission" particularly refers to light having a wavelength in the range of about 620 to 780 nm. The term "pink light" or "pink emission" refers to light having a blue component and a red component. The term "cyan" may refer to one or more wavelengths selected from the range of about 490 to 520 nm. The term "amber" can refer to one or more wavelengths selected from a range of about 585 to 605 nm, such as about 590 to 600 nm. The phrase "light having one or more wavelengths within a wavelength range" and similar phrases can specifically indicate that the light (or radiation) being indicated has a spectral power distribution with intensities at at least one or more wavelengths within the wavelength range being indicated. For example, a blue-emitting solid-state light source has a spectral power distribution with intensities at one or more wavelengths within a wavelength range of 440 to 495 nm.

[0099] In particular, in embodiments, the second device light of the second light-generating device may have substantially the same direction and beam shape as the (first) device light of the (first) light-generating device. Thus, the beam angle may be essentially the same and the optical axis may be substantially parallel to at least one of the optical axes of the device light. Thus, essentially all embodiments described above with respect to the light-generating device and optics may also apply to the second light-generating device (and its optional optics).

[0100] Therefore, in embodiments, the light-generating system may further comprise a second light-generating device configured to generate visible second device light, more particularly second device light having a wavelength selected from the wavelength range of 380 to 440 nm, and the second light-generating device and the optical system configured to generate a second beam of second device light, the second beam having a first beam angle (θ21) and a second beam angle (θ22) perpendicular thereto, the first beam angle (θ21) and the second beam angle (θ22) being defined by a full width at half maximum of the second beam, one of the first beam angle (θ21) and the second beam angle (θ22) being selected from a range of at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle (θ21) and the second beam angle (θ22) being selected from a range of at most 2°. In certain embodiments, the second light-generating device may comprise a laser diode.

[0101] Thus, there may be one or more light-generating devices configured to provide the UV radiation and one or more second light-generating devices configured to generate the visible second device light, in particular violet second device light. The optical axis of the second device light may, in embodiments, essentially coincide with the optical axis of at least one of the k1 beams. If the device light is provided as a radial beam, the second device light may also be provided as a radial beam. In particular, a beam of second device light may at least partially overlap with one or more beams of device light.

[0102] It may also be possible to combine beams of light, especially if the beams of light have different spectral power distributions. For example, reflective polarizers and / or UV dichroic mirrors may be used to combine the beams of light. Other beam combiners may also be applied.

[0103] Therefore, in certain embodiments, the optical system may (further) comprise one or more of a reflective polarizer and a UV dichroic mirror configured to combine beams (105, 106) of device light (101, 121) having different spectral power distributions.

[0104] The light-generating system may be part of or used in, for example, an office lighting system, a home application system, a shop lighting system, a domestic lighting system, an accent lighting system, a spot lighting system, a theatre lighting system, a fiber optic application system, a projection system, a self-lit display system, a pixelated display system, a segmented display system, a warning sign system, a medical lighting application system, an indicator sign system, a decorative lighting system, a portable system, an automotive application, an (outdoor) road lighting system, an urban lighting system, a greenhouse lighting system, horticultural lighting, digital projection, or an LCD backlight. The light-generating system (or the luminaire) may be part of or used in, for example, an optical communication system or a disinfection system.

[0105] In yet another aspect, the present invention also provides a lamp or luminaire having a light-generating system as defined herein. The luminaire may further include a housing, optical elements, louvers, etc. The lamp or luminaire may further include a housing enclosing the light-generating system. The lamp or luminaire may have a light window or housing opening in the housing, and the system light may escape from the housing through the light window or housing opening. In yet another aspect, the present invention also provides a projection device having a light-generating system as defined herein. In particular, a projection device or "projector" or "image projector" may be an optical device that projects an image (or moving image) onto a surface, such as a projection screen. The projection device may include one or more light-generating systems as described herein. Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention also provides a light-generating device selected from the group consisting of a lamp, a luminaire, a projector device, a disinfection device, a photochemical reactor, and an optical wireless communication device, the light-generating device having a light-generating system as defined herein. The light-generating device may have a housing configured to accommodate or a carrier configured to support one or more elements of the light-generating system. For example, in embodiments, the light-generating device may have a housing configured to accommodate or a carrier configured to support one or more of the n1 light-generating devices and the optical system. The lighting device may be a suspension lighting device. Such a device may be suspended from a ceiling.

[0106] In yet another aspect, the present invention also provides a method for treating a gas or a surface in a space external to a light-generating system as described herein, comprising the step of providing system light to said gas or surface (in said space) with said light-generating system. As mentioned above, said system light may in particular comprise UV radiation.

[0107] In an embodiment, the method may include providing system light in the space such that an unobstructed beam is only available within a spatial portion h1 meters above a floor in the space, where h1 is selected from a range of at least 220 cm, and the k1 beams have optical axes (Ok), the optical axes (Ok) having angles relative to a horizontal plane selected from a range of 0 to 15°. Thus, with respect to the horizontal plane, the optical axes may have angles of up to 15° relative to the horizontal plane. This may include a range of +15° to -15°. For example, the optical axes (Ok) may have angles (θ4) relative to the horizontal plane selected from a range of 0 to 10°, such as 0 to 10°.

[0108] In embodiments, the one or more beams may be grazing along a horizontal ceiling. In embodiments, the system may sweep one or more beams.

[0109] In certain embodiments, the beams of light may have a small angle with respect to the ceiling so that the device light propagates (slightly) toward the ceiling. The optical axes may be directed toward the ceiling at a relatively small angle. Thus, in embodiments, the method may include providing system light in the space, wherein the k beams have optical axes (Ok), the optical axes (Ok) having an angle (θ4) with respect to a horizontal plane selected from the range of greater than 0° and less than or equal to 15°, and the optical axes (Ok) are directed away from the floor. In this manner, the optical axes may be directed toward the ceiling.

[0110] As used herein, the terms "light" and "radiation" are used interchangeably, unless it is clear from the context that the term "light" refers only to visible light. Thus, the terms "light" and "radiation" may refer to UV radiation, visible light, and IR radiation. In certain embodiments, particularly for lighting applications, the terms "light" and "radiation" refer to (at least) visible light. The term IR radiation may, in certain embodiments, refer to near-IR radiation (NIR). Therefore, the term "(N)IR" is also used herein to refer generally to IR and, in certain embodiments, to refer to NIR. As used herein, the term "visible light" particularly relates to light having a wavelength selected from the range of 380 to 780 nm. As used herein, UV (ultraviolet) radiation may particularly refer to wavelengths selected from the range of 190 to 380 nm, although other wavelengths may be possible in certain embodiments. As used herein, IR (infrared) may particularly refer to radiation having a wavelength selected from the range of 780 to 3000 nm, such as 780 to 2000 nm, for example, up to about 1500 nm, such as a wavelength of at least 900 nm, although other wavelengths may be possible in certain embodiments. Thus, the term IR may, as used herein, refer to one or more of near-infrared (NIR (or IR-A)) and short-wave infrared (SWIR (or IR-B)), particularly NIR. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0111] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which: [Figure 1a] Some embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically. [Figure 1b] Some embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically. [Figure 1c] Some embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically. [Figure 1d] Some embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically. [Figure 1e] Some embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically. [Figure 2a] Some further aspects and embodiments are illustrated schematically. [Figure 2b] Some further aspects and embodiments are illustrated schematically. [Figure 2c] Some further aspects and embodiments are illustrated schematically. [Figure 2d] Some further aspects and embodiments are illustrated schematically. [Figure 3a] Some further embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically. [Figure 3b] Some further embodiments and aspects are illustrated schematically.

[0112] The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0113] FIG. 1a shows a schematic representation of a space 1300 comprising a light-generating system 1000, shown in vertical cross section in embodiment I and in horizontal cross section in embodiment II.

[0114] The light-generating system 1000 comprises n1 light-generating devices 100 and an optical system 400. The n1 light-generating devices 100 are configured to generate device light 101 having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm. In particular, n1≧1. In an embodiment, the n1 light-generating devices 100 may comprise one or more laser devices.

[0115] In an embodiment, the n1 light-generating devices 100 and the optical system 400 may be configured to generate k1 beams 105 of device light 101 (in the form of a beam). Each beam 105 has a first beam angle θ1 and a second beam angle θ2 perpendicular thereto. The first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2 are defined by the full width at half maximum of the beam 105. One of the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2, here the first beam angle θ1, may be selected from a range of at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2, here the second beam angle θ2, may be selected from a range of at most 2°. In particular, k1≧1.

[0116] The beam 105 may be specifically defined by its FWHM (full width at half maximum), where in FIG. 1a, for example, k1=2.

[0117] In some of the drawings herein, θ1 refers to a larger beam angle, which may be particularly substantially parallel to the ceiling. Further, in some of the drawings herein, θ2 refers to a smaller beam angle, which may be particularly in a plane perpendicular to the ceiling.

[0118] Each of the k1 beams 105 may have an optical axis Ok.

[0119] The light-generating system 1000 may be configured to generate system light 1001 that includes at least one beam 105 of device light 101 .

[0120] The reference symbol θ4 refers to the angle of the optical axis relative to a horizontal plane such as a ceiling. The reference symbol β refers to the angle of the optical axis relative to a horizontal plane such as a floor. The values ​​may be the same.

[0121] 1b, in an embodiment (see embodiment II), the n1 light-generating devices 100 may comprise one or more first light sources 10 configured to generate a first source light 11 of infrared light or visible light, and an upconverter material 210. The one or more first light sources 10 and the upconverter material 210 may be configured to generate a device light 101 having a wavelength in the wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm. Alternatively or in addition, in an embodiment (see embodiment I), the n1 light-generating devices 100 may comprise one or more second light sources 20 configured to generate a second source light 21 having a wavelength in the wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm. The device light 101 may comprise the second source light 21.

[0122] 1a-1c, two or more light-generating devices 100 may be configured to generate device light 101 having different centroid wavelengths, with a centroid wavelength difference of at least 15 nm. See schematic spectral power distribution in FIG. 1c. For example, in an embodiment, two or more light-generating devices 100 are configured to generate device light 101 in different wavelength ranges selected from a UV-A wavelength range, a UV-B wavelength range, a near UV-C wavelength range, and a far UV-C wavelength range.

[0123] For example, referring to FIG. 1a, in certain embodiments, two or more light-generating devices 100 may be configured such that k1 beams 105 have a parallel first beam angle θ1 and / or a parallel second beam angle θ2.

[0124] In certain embodiments, one of the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2 may be selected from a range of at least 10°, and the other of the first beam angle θ1 and the second beam angle θ2 may be selected from a range of at most 1.5°.

[0125] In particular, k1=n1 may apply.

[0126] 1a, for example, a light-generation system 1000 may have a light output 1005 through which system light 1001 escapes from the system 1000, where the beam width W2 of the k beams 105, as defined by a first beam angle θ1, is at least 1 cm. Here, the first beam angle θ1 refers to the maximum beam angle of the beams 105.

[0127] Referring to embodiment I of Figure 1a, the upper horizontal plane may refer to a horizontal ceiling, and the lower horizontal plane may refer to a floor. The angle θ4 may indicate the angle of the optical axis Ok relative to the ceiling, and this angle θ4 may be different for different beams 105 (where the optical axes Ok are parallel). For example, here the second beam angle θ2 refers to the beam angle in the vertical plane.

[0128] Referring to embodiment I of FIG. 1a, the upper horizontal plane may point to a wall, and the lower horizontal plane may point to another wall. As can be seen, the beam angle in the horizontal plane can be large. The mutual angle between the optical axes can essentially take any value. Here, the optical axes in this plane are parallel. Consequently, it should be noted that, by way of example, the first beam angle θ1 here refers to the beam angle in the horizontal plane.

[0129] 1d, in certain embodiments, k1≧5. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the light-generation system 1000 may be configured to generate an N×M array of beams 105 of device light 101. In embodiments, one or more of N≧2 and M≧2 may apply.

[0130] 1b and 2a-2b, in an embodiment, the optical system 400 may include a first optical system 410. The first optical system 410 may include a lens configured to collimate the device light 101. In an embodiment, the optical system 400 may include a second optical system 420. The second optical system 420 may include one or more of a diffractive optic and a refractive optic configured to shape the beam 105 with a higher aspect ratio than upstream of the second optical system 420.

[0131] In an embodiment, the laser device comprises a laser diode.

[0132] 2b, the n1 light-generating devices 100 and the optical system 400 may be configured to generate a radially arranged beam 105 of (beam-shaped) device light 101. Reference numeral 430 refers to a conical specular reflector. The second optical system 420 may be configured to generate a circular beam of device light 101.

[0133] 1a, for example, the light-generating system 1000 may further comprise a control system 300. The control system 300 may be configured to control one or more of: (i) the n1 light-generating devices 100; and (ii) the optional controllable optical system 430.

[0134] 2a, in an embodiment, optional controllable optics 430 may be configured to control the propagation direction of at least one of the k beams 105. In an embodiment, control system 300 may be configured to change one or more of the direction and shape of at least one beam 105 by controlling controllable optics 430. Very schematically, an embodiment of controllable optics is also illustrated in FIG. 1e, where, for example, the direction of the beam may be controlled.

[0135] In an embodiment, the control system may rely on sensors to control the system lights, which are indicated in Figure 1a by reference numeral 310.

[0136] In the embodiment, the optical axis Ok is arranged in space (as aligned in the embodiment) between two imaginary cones (frustums) (with parallel cone axes) pointing at each other at their apexes and having apex angles independently selected in the range of 170 to 180° (see also Figure 2c).

[0137] The angles β1 and β2 are cone angles. They may be the same or different. The angle β3 is the angle between the two cones. Thus, in particular, β1 + β2 + 2 × β3 = 360°. Note that β3 may be relatively small, such as at most 15°.

[0138] In Figure 2c, the optical axes (here dashed lines) may point in different directions and may have a mutual angle in the vertical plane (as shown here), but the mutual angle between the optical axes may be defined by two truncated cones. The angle in the horizontal plane may have any (desired) value.

[0139] Instead of the terms "vertical plane" and "horizontal plane", the terms "first plane" and "second plane", respectively, may also be used.

[0140] FIG. 2d schematically illustrates another way of defining the degrees of freedom of the optical axis in a plane and the limited degrees of freedom of the optical axis in a direction perpendicular to the plane. As can be seen, in particular, k1≧2, each beam 105 may have an optical axis Ok, where the k1 optical axes Ok have k1 third angles θ3 with respect to an imaginary plane, the third angles θ3 being selected from the range of 0 to 15°, such as 0 to 10°. For example, referring to FIG. 1a, the imaginary plane may be parallel to a horizontal ceiling. When the imaginary plane is parallel to the ceiling in FIG. 1a, θ4=θ3. Here, the optical axis is also given a direction (the propagation direction of the device light).

[0141] Referring to FIG. 3a, the light-generation system 1000 may further include a second light-generation device 120. The second light-generation device 120 may be configured to generate violet second device light 121 having a wavelength selected from the wavelength range of 380 to 440 nm. The second light-generation device 120 and the optical system 400 may be configured to generate a second beam 106 of second device light. The second beam 106 may have a first beam angle θ21 and a second beam angle θ22 perpendicular thereto. The first beam angle θ21 and the second beam angle θ22 are defined by the full width at half maximum of the second beam 106. One of the first beam angle θ21 and the second beam angle θ22 may be selected from a range of at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle θ21 and the second beam angle θ22 may be selected from a range of at most 2°. In an embodiment, the second light-generation device 120 may include a laser diode.

[0142] The angles θ4 and θ24 are the respective angles of the optical axes with respect to a horizontal plane such as the ceiling. Here, as in Figure 1a, they are about 0 degrees (i.e., essentially parallel).

[0143] In an embodiment, the optical system 400 may (further) comprise one or more of a reflective polarizer and a UV dichroic mirror configured to combine the beams 105, 106 of device light 101, 121 having different spectral power distributions, an embodiment of which is illustrated schematically in Figure 3b.

[0144] Therefore, the present invention also provides a method for treating a gas or a surface in a space 1300. The space 1300 may be external to the light-generation system 1000. The method may comprise providing system light 1001 to a gas, such as air, or to a surface (in the space 1300) with the light-generation system 1000. The method may comprise providing system light 1001 in the space 1300 such that the unobstructed beam 105 is only available within a portion of the space h1 meters above the floor in the space 1300, where h1 may be selected from a range of at least 220 cm.

[0145] The k1 beams 105 may have optical axes Ok, which may have an angle θ4 selected from the range of 0 to 15° relative to the horizontal plane.

[0146] In certain embodiments, the method may include providing system light 1001 in space 1300 such that unobstructed beams 105 are only available within a spatial portion h1 meters above a floor in space 1300, where h1 is selected from a range of at least 220 cm, and k1 beams 105 have optical axes Ok, where the optical axes Ok have angles θ4 with respect to a horizontal plane selected from a range of greater than 0° and less than or equal to 15°, and where the optical axes Ok are directed away from the floor.

[0147] It is desirable to protect oneself and others from the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as influenza, or the recent outbreak of novel viral infections, such as COVID-19. UV light emitted by a UV light source can be used for disinfection. One type of disinfection is upward air disinfection, in which UV light, particularly that emitted by UV TL tubes, is collimated by light-absorbing lamellae and emitted only toward the upper part of the room. However, the lamellae of upward air disinfection devices may absorb a significant portion of the UV light (i.e., low efficiency). The spatial light distribution in the vertical direction may be too broad (i.e., safety issues, e.g., stray light from the ceiling). The spectral light distribution may be narrow (i.e., some viruses and / or bacteria are more active at other UV wavelengths). The spatial light distribution and / or spectral light distribution may not be controllable.

[0148] Among other things, a UV laser (or LED) light upper air disinfection device is proposed herein. The upper air disinfection device may be configured to provide disinfecting light during operation. The upper air disinfection device may include multiple laser (or LED) light sources providing multiple beams of UV light, an array of lenses configured to collimate the beams of UV light into collimated beams of UV light, and a diffractive or refractive component configured to redirect the collimated beam of UV light into an elongated light distribution having a FWHM width in the horizontal plane and a FWHM height in the vertical plane, the FWHM width > 5° and the FWHM height < 2°. In embodiments, the disinfecting light may be a pixelated laser light, and the elongated light distributions are arranged in parallel. In embodiments, adjacent elongated light distributions have UV light of different wavelengths, specific different UV ranges (UVA / UVB / UVC), and in particular safer UV wavelengths at the upper bottom of the room, thereby providing improved disinfection performance and safety. In embodiments, nonlinear optics (NLO) may be used to convert visible and / or NIR laser light to UV laser light, for example, to convert 444 nm and / or 508 nm lasers to 222 nm and / or 254 nm light. This may enable a low-cost solution. In embodiments, the width of the elongated beam exiting the exit window of the upper air disinfection device may be at least 1 cm (improved safety). In embodiments, n≧5. In embodiments, the lasers may be arranged in a vertical line configuration. In embodiments, the pixelated laser light may be a matrix with N>5 rows by M>3 columns.

[0149] The term "plurality" refers to two or more.

[0150] The terms "substantially" or "essentially," and similar terms, used herein will be understood by those skilled in the art. The terms "substantially" or "essentially" can also include embodiments with "entirely," "completely," "all," etc. Thus, in embodiments, the adjectives substantially or essentially may be omitted. Where applicable, the terms "substantially" or "essentially" may also relate to 90% or more, including 100%, such as 95% or more, particularly 99% or more, and even more particularly 99.5% or more.

[0151] The term "comprises" also includes embodiments in which the term "comprises" means "consisting of."

[0152] The term "and / or" specifically refers to one or more of the items mentioned before and after "and / or." For example, the phrase "item 1 and / or item 2," and similar phrases, can refer to one or more of items 1 and 2. The term "comprising" can refer to "consisting of" in some embodiments, while in other embodiments it can refer to "including at least the specified species, and optionally one or more other species."

[0153] Furthermore, in the specification and claims, terms such as first, second, third, etc. are used to distinguish between like elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. The terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and it should be understood that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in orders other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0154] The present specification may describe, among other things, devices, apparatus, or systems in operation. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the present invention is not limited to methods of operation or devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.

[0155] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are illustrative of the invention rather than limiting, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many other embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0156] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

[0157] The use of the verb "to have" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, words like "to have" and the like should be interpreted in their inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," as opposed to their exclusive or exhaustive sense.

[0158] The singular reference of an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0159] The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, or by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device, apparatus or 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 means are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these means cannot be used to advantage. Thus, in yet another aspect, the invention provides software which, when run on a computer, is capable of implementing (one or more embodiments of) the method as described herein.

[0160] The present invention also provides a control system that may control a device, apparatus, or system or that may perform the methods or processes described herein. Still further, the present invention also provides a computer program product that, when executed on a computer operatively coupled to or included in a device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such a device, apparatus, or system.

[0161] The invention further applies to a device, apparatus or system having one or more of the characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.The invention further relates to a method or process having one or more of the characterizing features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0162] Various aspects described in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. 1. A light-generating system having n light-generating devices and an optical system, The n1 light-generating devices are configured to generate device light having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm, where n1≧1, and the n1 light-generating devices include one or more laser devices; the n1 light-generating devices and optical system are configured to generate k1 beams of device light, each beam having a first beam angle and a second beam angle perpendicular thereto, the first beam angle and the second beam angle being defined by a full width at half maximum of the beam, one of the first beam angle and the second beam angle being a beam angle in a horizontal plane and selected from a range of at least 5°, and the other of the first beam angle and the second beam angle being a beam angle in a vertical plane and selected from a range of at most 2°, and k1≧1; the light-producing system is configured to produce system light including at least one beam of device light; A light-generating system in which the n1 light-generating devices and optics are configured to generate radially arranged beams of device light.

2. 2. The light-generating system of claim 1, wherein the n1 light-generating devices comprise: (i) one or more primary light sources configured to generate primary source light of infrared light or visible light; and (ii) an upconverter material, wherein the one or more primary light sources and the upconverter material are configured to generate the device light having a wavelength within a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm.

3. 2. The light-generating system of claim 1, wherein the n1 light-generating devices comprise one or more second light sources configured to generate second source light having a wavelength within a wavelength range of 100 to 380 nm, and the device light comprises the second source light.

4. 10. The light-generating system of claim 1, wherein two or more light-generating devices are configured to generate device light having different centroid wavelengths with a centroid wavelength difference of at least 15 nm.

5. 10. The light-generating system of claim 1, wherein the two or more light-generating devices are configured to generate device light in different wavelength ranges selected from a UV-A wavelength range, a UV-B wavelength range, a near UV-C wavelength range, and a far UV-C wavelength range.

6. 2. The light generation system of claim 1, wherein k1≧2, each of the k1 beams has an optical axis, and the k1 optical axes have a third angle with respect to the horizontal plane, the third angle being selected from the range of 0 to 15 degrees.

7. 2. The light-generating system of claim 1, wherein two or more light-generating devices are configured such that the k1 beams have parallel first beam angles, one of the first beam angle and the second beam angle is a beam angle in a horizontal plane and is selected from a range of at least 10°, and the other of the first beam angle and the second beam angle is a beam angle in a vertical plane and is selected from a range of at most 1.5°, wherein k1=n1, and the light-generating system has a light output through which the system light exits the system, and wherein the beam width of the k1 beams at the light output defined by the first beam angle is at least 1 cm.

8. 10. The light-generation system of claim 1, wherein k1≧5 and the light-generation system is configured to generate an N×M array of the beams of device light, where N≧2 and M≧2.

9. 2. The light-generating system of claim 1, wherein the optical system comprises: (i) a first optical system; and (ii) a second optical system, wherein the first optical system comprises a lens configured to collimate the device light; and the second optical system comprises one or more of a diffractive optical system and a refractive optical system configured to shape the beam with a higher aspect ratio than upstream of the second optical system; and the laser device comprises a laser diode.

10. The light production system of claim 1 , wherein the optical system comprises a conical specular reflector.

11. 10. The light-generating system of claim 1, further comprising a control system configured to control one or more of: (i) the n1 light-generating devices; and (ii) optional controllable optics, wherein the optional controllable optics is configured to control the propagation direction of at least one of the k1 beams.

12. 10. The light-generation system of claim 1, further comprising a second light-generating device configured to generate violet second device light having a wavelength selected from a wavelength range of 380 to 440 nm, the second light-generating device and the optical system configured to generate a second beam of second device light, the second beam having a first beam angle and a second beam angle perpendicular thereto, the first beam angle and the second beam angle being defined by a full width at half maximum of the second beam, one of the first beam angle and the second beam angle being a beam angle in a horizontal plane and selected from a range of at least 5 degrees, and the other of the first beam angle and the second beam angle being a beam angle in a vertical plane and selected from a range of at most 2 degrees, and the second light-generating device comprising a laser diode.

13. 5. The light production system of claim 4, wherein the optical system comprises one or more of a reflective polarizer and a UV dichroic mirror configured to combine beams of device light having different spectral power distributions.

14. 14. A method for disinfecting a gas or a surface in a space external to a light-generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising the step of providing system light to said gas or said surface with said light-generating system.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, comprising providing system light in the space such that the k1 beams are provided only at heights higher than h1 meters above a floor in the space, where h1 is selected from a range of at least 220 cm, and the k1 beams have optical axes that have angles with respect to the horizontal plane selected from a range of greater than 0° and less than or equal to 15°, and the optical axes are directed away from the floor.

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