Filament lamp with improved visibility

Abstract

The present invention provides a light-generating device 1000 comprising an LED filament 100, the LED filament 100 comprising a support 105, a set 107 of solid-state light sources 110, and an encapsulant 160, wherein (I) the LED filament 100 has a length axis 108 having a first length L1, (II) the solid-state light sources 110 are disposed on the support 105 over the first length L1 of the LED filament 100, the solid-state light sources 110 being configured to generate source light 111, and (III) the encapsulant 160 surrounds at least a portion of each of the solid-state light sources 110 in the set 107 of the solid-state light sources 110. , (IV) the encapsulant 160 includes a luminescent material 200 configured to convert at least a portion of the source light 111 into luminescent material light 201, (IV) the light-generating device 1000 is configured to generate device light 1001 including one or more of (i) the source light 111 and (ii) the luminescent material light 201, and (V) for each solid-state light source 110 in the set of solid-state light sources 110, the encapsulant 160 is configured asymmetrically with respect to a first imaginary plane 171 that is parallel to the length axis 108 and intersects the solid-state light source 110.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a photogenerating device and a lamp equipped with such a photogenerating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Filament-type photogenerating devices are known in the art. U.S. Patent No. 8,400,051(B2) describes, for example, an elongated rod-shaped package having a left end and a right end, wherein a plurality of lead wires are integrally formed with a first resin so that a portion of the lead wires is exposed; a light-emitting element fixed to at least one of the lead wires and electrically connected to at least one of the lead wires; and a second resin sealing the light-emitting element, wherein the lead wires are made of metal, the entire bottom surface of the light-emitting element is covered by at least one of the lead wires, the entire bottom surface of the package is covered with the first resin, and the first resin is integrally formed with the portion covering the bottom surface of the package and has side walls that are higher than the top surface of the lead wires. The present invention describes an illumination device having a first resin and a second resin, each made of optically transparent resin, wherein the second resin is filled in the upper part of the side wall of the first resin and contains a fluorescent material having a higher specific gravity than the second resin, and has outer lead portions with lead wires used for external connection and protruding from the left and right ends in the longitudinal direction of the package, the fluorescent material is arranged to be concentrated near a light-emitting element and is excited by the portion of light emitted by the light-emitting element, thereby emitting a color different from the color of the light emitted by the light-emitting element, and the side wall transmits the portion of light emitted by the light-emitting element and entering the side wall, as well as the portion of light emitted from the fluorescent material, to a portion covering the bottom surface of the package. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0003] Incandescent lamps are rapidly being replaced by LED-based lighting solutions. However, there are times when users appreciate and desire retrofit lamps that retain the appearance of incandescent bulbs. For this purpose, the infrastructure for manufacturing glass-based incandescent lamps can be utilized, and the filament can be replaced with an LED that emits white light. One such concept is based on an LED filament placed inside such a bulb. The appearance of these lamps is highly valued because it looks aesthetically pleasing.

[0004] To improve the old-fashioned appearance of these LED filament lamps, LED filaments can emit relatively warm white light (e.g., 2200K). However, a drawback of this solution is that color perception may be unsatisfactory when these LED filament lamps are used for general lighting purposes. Therefore, there is a need for improved LED filament lamps that provide decorative and / or warm lighting (functional lighting) with improved visibility of objects and colors, for example.

[0005] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is preferably to provide an alternative photogenerating device that further eliminates at least partially one or more of the aforementioned drawbacks. The present invention may also aim to overcome or improve upon at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In particular, this specification proposes to provide an LED filament lamp having improved visibility of objects and colors. In particular, such an LED filament lamp can be made from an LED filament comprising a plurality of LEDs arranged on a flexible, elongated carrier. In embodiments described herein, the plurality of LEDs may be at least partially covered by an encapsulation material containing a luminescent material for partially converting the LED light into converted light. In particular, in embodiments, the LEDs are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the encapsulation material.

[0007] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a photogenerating device ("device" or "lighting device") comprising an LED filament ("filament"), the LED filament comprising a support, a set of solid light sources ("light sources"), and an encapsulation material. The LED filament may have a length axis having a first length (L1). In particular, the solid light sources are arranged on the support over the first length (L1) of the LED filament. Furthermore, the solid light sources are configured to generate light source light (during operation of the photogenerating device). In particular, in the embodiment, the encapsulation material surrounds at least a portion of each of the solid light sources in the set of solid light sources. Furthermore, the encapsulation material may include a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the light source light into luminescent material light. In particular, the photogenerating device is configured to generate device light comprising one or more of (i) light source light and (ii) luminescent material light, more specifically, both light source light and luminescent material light. In the embodiments, in one or more light sources, the color points are measured along a circle surrounding each light source, the circle being perpendicular to the extension axis, and the intensity (energy-based) average color point on one side of the circle is different from the intensity (energy-based) average color point on the other side of the circle. For example, one or more of u' and v' may differ by at least about 0.05. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, for each of the solid light sources in a set of solid light sources, the encapsulating material may be configured asymmetrically with respect to a first virtual plane that is parallel to the length axis and intersects the solid light source.Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the present invention provides a photogenerating device comprising an LED filament, the LED filament comprising a support, a set of solid light sources, and an encapsulation material, wherein (I) the LED filament has a length axis having a first length (L1), (II) the solid light sources are arranged on the support over the first length (L1) of the LED filament and the solid light sources are configured to generate light source light, (III) the encapsulation material surrounds at least a portion of each of the solid light sources of the set of solid light sources, the encapsulation material comprises a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the light source light into luminescent material light, (IV) the photogenerating device is configured to generate device light comprising one or more of (i) light source light and (ii) luminescent material light, and (V) for each of the solid light sources of the set of solid light sources, the encapsulation material is configured asymmetrically with respect to a first virtual plane that is parallel to the length axis and intersects the solid light source.

[0008] Such a light-generating device can supply (relatively) warmer white light in one direction and (cooler) white light in the other direction. Therefore, spherical or decorative lighting may be supplied in one direction, while relatively more functional light (e.g., for improving reading / readability and / or visibility) may be supplied in the other direction. However, such a light-generating device can also supply light having a first color point in one direction and light having a second color point in the other direction. Therefore, in embodiments, one side may be used for functional lighting and the other side for decorative lighting and / or spherical lighting. Furthermore, the spatial change in correlated color temperature or color point may be inherently gradual, which may also be desirable.

[0009] As described above, the photogenerating device comprises an LED filament, the LED filament comprising a support, a set of solid light sources, and an encapsulation material. Such LED filaments are known and are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 8,400,051(B2), International Publication No. 2020016058, International Publication No. 2019197394, etc., which are incorporated herein by reference. The number of light sources in the set may be at least four, for example at least eight, more specifically at least twelve, for example up to 100, or even more. In particular, in embodiments, the number of light sources in the set may be selected from a range of 10 to 1000, for example 10 to 200.

[0010] The LED filament has a length axis having a first length (L1). Therefore, the length axis, in particular, defines the length of the LED filament. The LED filament may be straight or curved. The support for the LED filament (see also below) may have an elongated body axis. The length axis may be essentially the same as the body axis. As mentioned above, the LED filament may be curved, so the body axis may also be curved. For example, the filament may have a spiral shape or other curved shape.

[0011] The solid-state light source is arranged on the support over a first length (L1) of the LED filament. Therefore, the solid-state light source is arranged over at least a portion of the length. Thus, the light source may consist of a 1D array over at least a portion of the length. The first and last solid-state light sources may have a distance of at least 0.5 × L1, and more specifically 0.7 × L1 (i.e., 70% of the first length), when measured along the LED filament. In embodiments, the solid-state light source may consist of two 1D arrays, one on one side of the support and the other on the other side of the support. The present invention is described herein in relation to a solid-state light source at least partially enclosed on one side of the support. However, the same applies to a solid-state light source on the other side of the support. A 2D array of solid-state light sources is not excluded herein. However, in that case, an array of solid-state light sources perpendicular to the length axis may be considered a single solid-state light source herein. Furthermore, herein, the present invention is described herein in particular in relation to a 1D array of solid-state light sources (unless otherwise specified).

[0012] The term "light source" may refer to semiconductor light-emitting devices such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), resonant cavity light-emitting diodes (RCLEDs), vertical cavity laser diodes (VCSELs), and end-face-emitting lasers. The term "light source" may also refer to organic light-emitting diodes such as passive-matrix organic light-emitting diodes (PMOLEDs) or active-matrix organic light-emitting diodes (AMOLEDs). In certain embodiments, the light source includes solid-state light sources (such as LEDs or laser diodes). In one embodiment, the light source includes LEDs (light-emitting diodes). The term LED may also refer to multiple LEDs. Furthermore, in embodiments, the term "light source" may also refer to so-called chip-on-board (COB) light sources. The term "COB" specifically refers to LED chips in the form of semiconductor chips that are mounted directly onto a substrate such as a PCB without encapsulation or connection. Therefore, multiple semiconductor light sources may be configured on the same substrate. In embodiments, the COB is a multi-LED chip configured as a single lighting module. The term “light source” may also refer to multiple (essentially identical (or different)) light sources, such as 2 to 2000 solid light sources. In embodiments, the light source may include one or more micro-optical elements (arrays of microlenses) downstream of a single solid light source, or downstream of multiple solid light sources (i.e., shared by multiple LEDs), such as LEDs. In embodiments, the light source may include LEDs having on-chip optical elements. In embodiments, the light source includes a pixelated single LED (having or not having optical elements) (which, in embodiments, provide on-chip beam steering).

[0013] 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 “identical light sources” or “multiple identical light sources,” and similar phrases, may, in embodiments, refer to multiple solid-state light sources selected from the same bin.

[0014] In this specification, in embodiments, the solid light sources in a set are essentially the same. Therefore, they may, for example, be from the same bin. Thus, in certain embodiments, they may be configured to produce light sources having essentially the same color point and / or essentially the same dominant wavelength. In yet other embodiments, the solid light sources comprise a limited number of different light sources, e.g., up to about five, e.g., up to about four different types of solid light sources, more specifically, up to about three different types of solid light sources. Thus, in certain embodiments, they may be configured to produce light sources having different color points and / or dominant wavelengths. In this specification, the present invention will be described in particular using embodiments in which the solid light sources (in a set of solid light sources) are essentially the same.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the color points of the first type of light and the second type of light differ by at least 0.01 with respect to u' and / or by at least 0.01 with respect to v'. More specifically, the color or color points of the first type of light and the second type of light may be different when they differ by at least 0.02 with respect to u' and / or by at least 0.02 with respect to v'. In even more specific embodiments, the color points of the first type of light and the second type of light may differ by at least 0.03 with respect to u' and / or by at least 0.03 with respect to v'. In other specific embodiments, the color or color points of the first type of light and the second type of light may be essentially the same when their color points differ by at most 0.03 with respect to u' and / or by at least 0.03 with respect to v'. More specifically, they may be essentially the same when they differ by at most 0.02 with respect to u' and / or by at least 0.02 with respect to v'. In even more specific embodiments, the color points of the first type of light and the second type of light may differ by at most 0.01 with respect to u' and / or by at least 0.01 with respect to v'. Here, u' and v' are the color coordinates of light in the CIE 1976 UCS (uniform chromaticity scale) diagram.

[0016] Also, (in embodiments where the solid-state light source is available on both sides of the support) the source light of the solid-state light source on one side of the support may have a different spectral distribution and / or intensity from the source light of the solid-state light source on the other side of the support. Further, in embodiments, in addition to the solid-state light sources from a set of solid-state light sources, other solid-state light sources may also be included in the light generation device. In particular, in this specification, a filament includes a set of solid-state light sources and does not include other light sources unless it forms a set as defined herein with the accompanying conditions defined herein.

[0017] In embodiments, the solid-state light source comprises an LED. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, the solid-state light source may comprise a diode laser. In particular, the solid-state light source comprises an LED.

[0018] As described above, the solid-state light source is configured to generate source light. In an embodiment, the source light is blue light.

[0019] The term "blue light" or "blue emission" relates particularly to light having a wavelength in the range of about 440 to 495 nm (including certain purple and cyan hues). The term "violet light" or "violet emission" relates particularly to light having a wavelength in the range of about 380 to 440 nm. The term "green light" or "green emission" relates particularly to light having a wavelength in the range of about 495 to 570 nm. The term "yellow light" or "yellow emission" relates particularly to light having a wavelength in the range of about 570 to 590 nm. The term "orange light" or "orange emission" relates particularly to light having a wavelength in the range of about 590 to 620 nm. The term "red light" or "red emission" relates particularly 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 terms "visible", "visible light", or "visible emission", and similar terms refer to light having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 380 to 780 nm. The terms "light" and "radiation" are used interchangeably herein unless it is clear from the context that the term "light" refers only to visible light. Therefore, the terms "light" and "radiation" may refer to UV radiation, visible light, and IR radiation. In certain embodiments, particularly with regard to lighting applications, the terms "light" and "radiation" refer to (at least) visible light.

[0020] As described above, the encapsulation material surrounds at least a portion of each of the solid light sources in the set of solid light sources. Therefore, for each of the solid light sources in the set, it applies that the encapsulation material encapsulates at least a portion of each solid light source. Generally, the encapsulation material is in contact with the support and covers the entire solid light source. This may also be the case in this specification. However, embodiments in which the encapsulation material partially encapsulates the solid light source are also contemplated herein. Furthermore, in particular, the encapsulation material covers at least a portion of all the solid light sources in the set of solid light sources. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the spectral power distribution (angle distribution) may be substantially the same for each of the solid light sources in the set, but is not necessarily so.

[0021] Therefore, in embodiments, the encapsulation material may be a continuous coating covering a substantial portion of the length of the support (e.g., more than 70% of the length of the filament) and cover a plurality of solid light sources, e.g., at least two, at least five, and more specifically at least ten, e.g., at least 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set in embodiments). The encapsulation material may be a continuous coating along the length of the filament on one or both sides of the support. The solid light source may have an emitting surface such as an LED die. In this specification, the phrase "the encapsulation material surrounds at least a portion of the solid light source" and similar phrases indicate, in particular, that at least a portion of the emitting surface is surrounded by the encapsulation material.

[0022] The encapsulating material includes a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the light source into luminescent material light. Therefore, the luminescent material is configured downstream of the solid light source.

[0023] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the arrangement of an article or feature with respect to the propagation of light from a light-generating means (in this specification, a light source), where "upstream" is a second position in the light beam that is closer to the light-generating means, and "downstream" is a third position in the light beam that is further away from the light-generating means.

[0024] The term "luminescent material" specifically refers to a material capable of converting one or more of the first types of radiation, particularly UV radiation and blue radiation, into a second type of radiation. Generally, the first and second types of radiation have different spectral power distributions. Therefore, the terms "luminescent converter" or "converter" may also be applied instead of "luminescent material." Generally, the second type of radiation has a spectral power distribution at longer wavelengths than the first type of radiation, which is the case of so-called downconversion. However, in certain embodiments, the second type of radiation has a spectral power distribution that has intensity at shorter wavelengths than the first type of radiation, which is the case of so-called upconversion.

[0025] In embodiments, “luminescent material” may specifically refer to a material capable of converting radiation into, for example, visible light and / or infrared light. For example, in embodiments, a luminescent material may be capable of converting one or more of UV radiation and blue radiation into visible light. In certain embodiments, a luminescent material may also convert radiation into infrared radiation (IR). Therefore, when excited by radiation, a luminescent material emits radiation. Generally, a luminescent material is a downconverter, meaning that radiation of a smaller wavelength is converted into radiation of a larger wavelength (λ). ex <λ em In certain embodiments, the luminescent material may include a downconverter luminescent material, i.e., radiation of a larger wavelength is converted to radiation having a smaller wavelength (λ ex >λ em ).

[0026] In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may refer to phosphorescence. In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may also refer to fluorescence. The term "emission" may also be applied instead of "luminescence." Therefore, the terms "first radiation" and "second radiation" may refer to excitation radiation and emission (radiation), respectively. Similarly, the term "luminescent material" may refer to phosphorescence and / or fluorescence in embodiments. The term "luminescent material" may also refer to multiple different luminescent materials. Examples of possible luminescent materials are shown below.

[0027] The embodiment of garnet is, in particular, A3B5O 12 The material contains garnet, where A contains at least yttrium or lutetium, and B contains at least aluminum. Such garnet may be doped with cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), or a combination of cerium and praseodymium, but especially with Ce. In particular, B contains aluminum (Al), but B may also contain gallium (Ga), scandium (Sc), and / or indium (In), in part, especially up to about 20% of Al, more specifically up to about 10% of Al (i.e., the B ion essentially consists of 90 mol% or more of Al and 10 mol% or less of one or more of Ga, Sc, and In). B may particularly contain up to about 10% gallium. In another variant, B and O may be at least partially substituted with Si and N. Element A may be selected from the group consisting of yttrium (Y), gadolinium (Gd), terbium (Tb), and lutetium (Lu). Furthermore, Gd and / or Tb are present in amounts of only about 20% of A at most. In certain embodiments, the garnet luminescent material is (Y 1-x Lu x )3B5O 12 :Includes Ce, and x is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1.

[0028] The term ":Ce" indicates that a part of the metal ions in the luminescent material (i.e., in garnet, a part of the "A" ions) is replaced by Ce. For example, (Y 1-x Lu x )3Al5O 12 :Ce, a part of Y and / or Lu is replaced by Ce. This is known to those skilled in the art. Ce generally replaces A by 10% or less, and generally, the Ce concentration ranges from 0.1 to 4%, particularly 0.1 to 2% (relative to A). Assuming 1% of Ce and 10% of Y, the completely correct formula can be (Y 0.1 Lu 0.89 Ce 0.01 )3Al5O 12 .

[0029] Ce in garnet is substantially in the trivalent state or in the trivalent state only, as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0030] The blue luminescent concentrator can be based on YSO (Y2SiO5:Ce 3+) , or a similar compound, or BAM (BaMgAl 10 O 17 :Eu 2+ ), or a similar compound, especially those configured as a single crystal.

[0031] In an embodiment, the red luminescent material may include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of (Ba,Sr,Ca)S:Eu, (Ba,Sr,Ca)AlSiN3:Eu, and (Ba,Sr,Ca)2Si5N8:Eu. In these compounds, europium (Eu) is substantially divalent or divalent only and replaces one or more of the divalent cations shown. Generally, Eu does not exist in an amount greater than 10% of the cations, and its presence is particularly in the range of about 0.5 to 10%, more specifically about 0.5 to 5% relative to the cations to be replaced. The term ":Eu" indicates that a part of the metal ions is replaced by Eu (Eu 2+This indicates that it is substituted by (Ca). For example, assuming 2% Eu in CaAlSiN3:Eu, the correct formula is (Ca 0.98 EU 0.02 It is possible to use AlSiN3. Divalent europium generally substitutes for the divalent alkaline earth cations mentioned above, particularly divalent cations such as Ca, Sr, or Ba.

[0032] The material (Ba,Sr,Ca)S:Eu can also be expressed as MS:Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr), and calcium (Ca), and in particular, M in this compound contains calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more specifically calcium. Here, Eu is introduced to substitute for at least some of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0033] Furthermore, the material (Ba,Sr,Ca)2Si5N8:Eu can also be expressed as M2Si5N8:Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr), and calcium (Ca), and in particular, M in this compound contains Sr and / or Ba. In further specific embodiments, M consists of Sr and / or Ba (without considering the presence of Eu), in particular Ba being 50-100%, more specifically 50-90%, and Sr being 50-0%, particularly 50-10%, for example, Ba 1.5 Sr 0.5 The compound is Si5N8:Eu (i.e., 75%Ba; 25%Sr). Here, Eu is introduced to substitute for at least a portion of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0034] Similarly, the material (Ba,Sr,Ca)AlSiN3:Eu can also be represented as MAlSiN3:Eu, where M is one or more elements selected from the group consisting of barium (Ba), strontium (Sr), and calcium (Ca), in particular, M in this compound contains calcium or strontium, or calcium and strontium, more specifically calcium. Here, Eu is introduced to substitute for at least some of M (i.e., one or more of Ba, Sr, and Ca).

[0035] As is known to those skilled in the art, the Eu in the luminescent material described above is substantially in a divalent state, or exclusively in a divalent state.

[0036] The term "luminescent material" in this specification refers specifically to inorganic luminescent materials, which may also be referred to as phosphors. These terms are known to those skilled in the art.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, other luminescent materials may be applied. For example, quantum dots and / or organic dyes may be applied and optionally embedded in a permeable substrate, such as a polymer like PMMA or polysiloxane.

[0038] Quantum dots are generally small crystals of semiconductor material, typically having a width or diameter of only a few nanometers. When excited by incident light, quantum dots emit light of a color determined by the size and material of the crystal. Therefore, by adjusting the size of the dot, specific colors of light can be produced. Most known quantum dots that emit light in the visible range are based on cadmium selenide (CdSe) with shells such as cadmium sulfide (CdS) and zinc sulfide (ZnS). Cadmium-free quantum dots, such as indium phosphide (InP) and indium copper sulfide (CuInS2) and / or indium silver sulfide (AgInS2), can also be used. Quantum dots exhibit an extremely narrow emission band, and therefore, they exhibit saturated colors. Furthermore, the emission color can be easily adjusted by adjusting the size of the quantum dot. In this invention, any type of quantum dot known in the art may be used. However, for reasons of environmental safety and concern, it may be preferable to use quantum dots that do not contain cadmium, or quantum dots with at least a very low cadmium content.

[0039] Other quantum confinement structures may also be used instead of, or in addition to, quantum dots. In the context of this application, the term “quantum confinement structure” should be understood as, for example, quantum wells, quantum dots, quantum rods, tripods, tetrapods, or nanowires.

[0040] Organic phosphors can also be used in a similar manner. Examples of suitable organic phosphor materials include organic luminescent materials based on perylene derivatives, such as compounds marketed by BASF under the name Lumogen®. Examples of suitable compounds, but not limited to, include Lumogen® Red F305, Lumogen® Orange F240, Lumogen® Yellow F083, and Lumogen® F170.

[0041] In particular, in the embodiments, the luminescent material is selected from garnet and nitrides, which are doped with trivalent cerium or divalent europium, respectively. The term “nitride” may also refer to oxynitrides or nitridosilicates, etc.

[0042] The light-generating device is configured to generate device light comprising one or more of (i) light from a light source and (ii) light from a luminescent material. In particular, the device light comprises both light from a light source and light from a luminescent material. In this way, for example, white device light can be generated (see also below). The term “white light” as used herein is known to those skilled in the art. White light particularly refers to light having a correlated color temperature (CCT) in the range of about 1800 to 20000 K, for example about 2000 to 20000 K, particularly 2700 to 20000 K, and with respect to general illumination, particularly about 2700 K to 6500 K. Furthermore, in embodiments, the correlated color temperature (CCT) is particularly within about 15 SDCM (standard deviation of color matching) from the black body locus (BBL), particularly within about 10 SDCM from the BBL, and more specifically within about 5 SDCM from the BBL.

[0043] In particular, in this specification, it is desirable to supply various colors or various types of white light in various directions. In this way, a first type of light can propagate in a first direction, and a second type of light can propagate in a second direction. Thus, a user can perceive various types of light depending on their position relative to the photogenerating device. Alternatively, the photogenerating device may provide various functions. In particular, this is made possible when the solid light source and the encapsulating material (i.e., the luminescent material) do not have a symmetrical configuration (particularly with respect to a plane of symmetry parallel to the LED filament, including the length axis). For example, the luminescent material may have an asymmetrical distribution, and / or the solid light source may be asymmetrically arranged on the LED filament.

[0044] Therefore, in the embodiment, for each solid light source in a set of solid light sources, the encapsulating material may be configured asymmetrically with respect to a first virtual plane that is parallel to the length axis and intersects the solid light source. In particular, the first virtual plane may intersect the center of the solid light source, for example, the center of the LED. Note that if the filament can be curved in the plane of the filament, the virtual plane can also be curved essentially identically to the curvature of the filament.

[0045] The light from the light source may have different propagation lengths at any point as it passes through the luminescent material. However, as a result of asymmetry, the distribution of the different propagation lengths will be asymmetrical. As described above, in this way, the first type of light can propagate in a first direction, and the second type of light can propagate in a second direction. Therefore, in embodiments, the encapsulating material (and thus the luminescent material) may not be configured symmetrically with respect to the solid light source.

[0046] In certain embodiments, it applies that for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, and more specifically, at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) (110), the length axis lies in a first virtual plane. In further specific embodiments, this may apply to all solid light sources in the set.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, it is applied that for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, and more specifically at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in a set) (110), the encapsulation material is configured symmetrically with respect to a second virtual plane configured parallel to a first virtual plane. In further specific embodiments, this may be applied to all solid light sources in a set. In such embodiments, the solid light sources may be configured symmetrically with respect to a support, which may be desirable from the viewpoint of manufacturing LED filaments.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, it is applied that for one or more of the solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, and more specifically at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in a set) (110), the encapsulating material does not have a second virtual plane that serves as a reference for symmetrical configuration. In further specific embodiments, this may apply to all solid light sources in a set. In such embodiments, the solid light sources may be configured symmetrically with respect to the support, which may be desirable from the viewpoint of manufacturing LED filaments. However, such luminescent materials have an asymmetrical distribution.

[0049] Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, it is applied that for one or more of the solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, and more specifically at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in a set) (110), the encapsulating material partially covers the solid light source. In further specific embodiments, this may apply to all solid light sources in a set. In such embodiments, the solid light sources may be configured symmetrically with respect to the support, which may be desirable from the viewpoint of manufacturing LED filaments. However, the luminescent material is arranged asymmetrically on the support.

[0050] Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, it is applied that the length axis of one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, and more specifically, at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) (110), is not in the first virtual plane. In further specific embodiments, this may apply to all solid light sources in the set. In such embodiments, the solid light sources may be configured asymmetrically with respect to the support. However, such luminescent materials may have a symmetrical distribution and may be symmetrically arranged on the support, which may be desirable from the viewpoint of manufacturing LED filaments.

[0051] As mentioned above, this can lead to an asymmetrical distribution of the optical properties of the device light.

[0052] Therefore, in a symmetrical embodiment, the cross-section of the encapsulant perpendicular to the length axis may have the shape of a circular segment. In yet another embodiment, the cross-section of the encapsulant perpendicular to the length axis may have the shape of an isosceles triangle, or an isosceles triangle with rounded vertices, or a square, or a square with rounded corners.

[0053] However, in asymmetric embodiments, the cross-section may therefore be asymmetric. For example, in an embodiment, the encapsulation may include two unequal halves in a cross-section perpendicular to the length axis. In an embodiment, the encapsulation may have two unequal sides or halves (with respect to the center (of the light output surface) of the LED). In a particular embodiment, the (average) path length PL1 on one side of the LED, measured from the center (of the light output surface), is different from the average path length PL2 on the other side of the LED. In particular, in an embodiment, PL1 > PL2, for example, PL1 ≥ 1.1 × PL2. In a particular embodiment, PL1 ≥ 1.2 × PL2. For example, in an embodiment, PL1 <PL2≦2.5×PL1である。

[0054] In certain embodiments, for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in a set) (110), it may be applied that the device light emitted from the solid light sources and entering a third virtual plane that is perpendicular to a first virtual plane and perpendicular to a different direction with respect to the support has a variety of color points, and the distribution of color points is not symmetric with respect to the first virtual plane. Thus, a variety of colors can be supplied in a variety of directions.

[0055] However, this can also be applied in certain embodiments to a variety of correlated color temperatures. Thus, in certain (other) embodiments, the photogenerating device may be configured to generate white device light, and for one or more of the solid light sources, particularly a plurality of solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in an embodiment, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) (110), it may be applied that the device light emitted from the solid light sources and entering a third virtual plane that is perpendicular to a first virtual plane and perpendicular to a different direction with respect to the support has a variety of correlated color temperatures, and the distribution of correlated color temperatures is not symmetric with respect to the first virtual plane.

[0056] In particular, in the embodiment, a lower correlated color temperature T L It has a maximum color temperature of 2500K, and a higher correlated color temperature T H It is at least 2300K, T L <T H In this way, for example, functional light and spherical light may be supplied. Furthermore, the difference is at least 300K. In the embodiment, a lower correlated color temperature T L The color temperature is preferably up to 2300K, more preferably up to 2150K, and most preferably up to 2050K. In the embodiment, a higher correlated color temperature T H The temperature is preferably at least 2700K, more preferably at least 3000K, and most preferably at least 3300K.

[0057] Therefore, in certain embodiments, a higher correlated color temperature T H and lower correlated color temperature T L The difference is at least 300K. In this way, different CCTs may be well perceived. In embodiments, this difference is preferably at least 500K, more preferably at least 700K, and most preferably at least 900K.

[0058] As will be further explained below, the photogenerating device comprises such LED filaments. This may provide a photogenerating device having asymmetrically distributed optical properties. Furthermore, the photogenerating device may comprise a plurality of such LED filaments. In the latter embodiment, the plurality of LED filaments may be such that their asymmetric distributions are aligned, and therefore it still applies that the photogenerating device can supply device light having asymmetrically distributed optical properties. Thus, the device can supply device light to one side having different optical properties from that supplied to the other side. One side and the other side may be defined, for example, with respect to a plane containing the device axis (see also below), or with respect to a plane perpendicular to such a device axis.

[0059] Therefore, in certain embodiments, the photogenerating device may comprise one or more LED filaments, and the photogenerating device is configured to generate a first device light in a first direction and a second device light in a second direction (different from the first direction), and the first and second device lights have different correlated color temperatures. In particular, the first and second directions are opposite to each other.

[0060] In the embodiment, the photogenerating device has a device axis (A1), and a plurality of solid light sources are configured along the length of the device axis (A1), with two or more of the solid light sources configured at essentially the same distance (d1) from the device axis (A1). Thus, in the embodiment, the filament may have a spiral structure. In such an embodiment, one light source may block (too much) light from another light source.

[0061] Therefore, in certain embodiments where a certain type of circular filament structure is applied, the filament may be configured in a helical type configuration. In this way, it is possible to prevent one light source from blocking out too much of another light source. For example, if the optical axis of the light source of one light source intersects with another light source, there may be too much blocking. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the photogenerating device includes a device axis (A1), and a plurality of solid light sources are configured along the length of the device axis (A1), with two or more of the solid light sources configured at different distances (d1) from the device axis (A1), and for two or more of the solid light sources, a second axis (A2) parallel to the device axis (A1) intersects with only one of the solid light sources.

[0062] As can be derived from the above, in particular embodiments, the multiple solid light sources are configured in a spiral arrangement, and the filament distance (d2) to the device axis (A1) is constant (particularly spiral) or increases (particularly helical) in the direction along the device axis (A1). In this way, a certain type of helical filament may be provided. In this way, a curved 3D shape having multiple windings may be provided.

[0063] Therefore, in the embodiment, the LED filament may have a 3D helical configuration or a spiral configuration.

[0064] Several further embodiments are described below in this specification.

[0065] In particular, an LED lamp is proposed herein that has one or more, especially at least three, LED filaments configured to emit LED filament light when in operation. Such filaments may be linear. However, in other embodiments, such filaments may be curved, such as having a spiral or helical shape. Thus, the lamp may comprise multiple photogenerating devices, each photogenerating device comprising a filament, and each photogenerating device may have a device axis.

[0066] In this specification, the term “filament” may refer to a support and a plurality of solid light sources supported by the support. The filament may, in particular, include a 1D array of solid light sources. A 2D array of light solid light sources may also be possible, however, in particular, the number of columns (n1) is much smaller than the number of solid light sources in each column (n2), such as n1 / n2 ≤ 0.2, for example, n1 / n2 ≤ 0.1, and in particular n1 / n2 ≤ 0.05. In certain embodiments, the support supports a (1D) array of solid light sources on one side of the support and, optionally, another (1D) array of solid light sources on the other side of the support. The use of a 1D array is a better configuration for supplying different colors or different types of white light in different directions, for example, due to a greater difference in path length (by one or more LEDs in the second column) and / or less / reduced shading. The use of a 1D array is a low-cost configuration in terms of materials (e.g., LEDs) and / or assembly costs. Therefore, the support may have a single row of LEDs on a first main surface, and optionally, another single row of LEDs on a second main surface opposite to this first main surface.

[0067] The support may, in embodiments, have a thickness of 0.05 to 4 mm, for example 0.05 to 1 mm, or for example 0.1 to 0.5 mm. The support may have a width of 0.1 to 5 mm, for example 0.2 to 3 mm, or for example 0.3 to 2 mm. The length of the support (and therefore, in embodiments, essentially the length of the filament), also referred to herein as the first length (L1), may, in embodiments, be selected from a range of, for example 10 to 500 mm, for example 15 to 200 mm, for example 20 to 100 mm, for example 25 to 80 mm, for example 40 or 50 mm. Thus, the support (and therefore, essentially the filament as well) can have a relatively high aspect ratio (length / width, or length / thickness) of, for example, at least 10, more specifically at least 15, for example at least 20, for example even more specifically at least 50. A larger aspect ratio can better mimic the filament.

[0068] The support may include, for example, glass or sapphire. In other embodiments, the support may include a polymer material. As shown below, the support may be rigid (self-supporting), but (in the polymer embodiment) it may also be flexible. The first length is, in particular, the length along the extension axis.

[0069] In some embodiments, the support may be semi-transparent. In other embodiments, the support may be transparent. Therefore, the material of the support may be semi-transparent or transparent to light, particularly visible light. For transparent materials, see also below.

[0070] When the elongated filament is linear, it may have a linear extension axis. However, in embodiments, the elongated filament may also include multiple segments, two or more of which are configured at an angle (≠180°, ≠0°) to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the elongated filament may include one or more curves, e.g., curved segments, or two segments configured at an angle and connected via the curved segment. Therefore, in embodiments, the extension axis may also include one or more curves and / or one or more filament segments configured at an angle (≠180°) to each other. Thus, the filament may include a single segment or multiple segments (each segment containing one or more solid light sources). In particular, as used herein, the elongated filament is essentially a linear filament. One or more filaments may, in embodiments, be self-supporting (linear) filaments (see also above).

[0071] Such elongated light sources, in which multiple solid light sources having a resin containing a luminescent material configured around at least a portion of multiple LEDs are configured on a support, are known in the art as LED filaments (embodiments). These may generate white light by combining, for example, a blue-emitting solid light source with a luminescent material such as cerium containing garnet, configured to convert the blue light portion into yellow light, thereby producing white light. Of course, other combinations of light sources and luminescent materials may also be selected, for example, blue solid light source light with yellow and red luminescent materials; blue solid light source light with green and red luminescent materials; UV solid light source light with blue, green and red luminescent materials. Further luminescent materials such as cyan and / or amber luminescent materials may also be applied in any of the proposed combinations.

[0072] In the embodiment, the filament may include a substrate (which is one embodiment of a support) having an elongated body with an extension along an extension axis, a plurality of solid light sources, such as LEDs, mechanically coupled to the substrate, and wiring for supplying power to the plurality of LEDs.

[0073] Furthermore, different types of solid-state light sources may also be applied (optionally, in embodiments, on different sides of the support; see also above). For example, a blue-emitting solid-state light source may be applied in combination with one or more of a cyan-emitting solid-state light source and an amber-emitting solid-state light source. The cyan-emitting solid-state light source and the amber-emitting solid-state light source may each be obtained by using the same type of solid-state light source used to generate the blue solid-state light source, but in combination with a specific luminescent material.

[0074] Therefore, in the embodiment, the elongated light source includes an LED filament, the elongated light source includes a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the solid light source light into luminescent material light, and the light source light includes luminescent material light and optionally solid light source light.

[0075] Therefore, the term "luminescent material" can also refer to several different luminescent materials.

[0076] Therefore, generally speaking, filament light is the blue light of a blue LED, or garnet-based luminescent material or many Eu 2+ This results in a spectral distribution with multiple wavelengths, such as the yellow light of trivalent cerium containing the base luminescent material.

[0077] Accordingly, in the embodiment, each elongated filament includes a support and a plurality of solid light sources (on one or both sides of the support). The solid light sources are configured, in particular, to generate solid light source light. In the embodiment, this light source light may be at least partially converted to luminescent material light by a luminescent material. Thus, the filament light generated by the filament may include one or more of the solid light source light and luminescent material light, in particular, both in the embodiment. Note that in the embodiment, the spectral distribution of the filament light may vary over the length of the filament and / or differ depending on the side of the filament.

[0078] Therefore, the elongated filament has a first extension axis having a first length (L1), and the elongated filament is configured to generate filament light over at least a portion of the first length (L1). For example, filament light may be generated over at least 70% of the length, in particular at least 80%, even more particularly at least 90%, even more particularly at least 95%, and so on, up to at least 98% of the length. Generally, light may be generated along the essentially entire length of the filament, thereby causing the filament to be perceived as a (classical) filament.

[0079] The solid-state light source may have a pitch selected from the range of 0.3 to 3 mm.

[0080] In certain embodiments, the solid-state light source is available on only one side of the support. In such embodiments, the filament may not be a radial emitter (radial with respect to the first extension axis). In other embodiments, the solid-state light source is available on both sides of the support. In such embodiments, the filament may be a radial emitter (radial with respect to the first extension axis).

[0081] In this embodiment, the spectral distribution of the filament light generated on one side of the filament may differ from that of the filament light generated on the other side. This may be used to produce special effects. It may also be used to control the spectral distribution of the photogenerating device light.

[0082] As described above, a retro-type lamp may be provided that includes a light-transmitting sphere along with a filament, and further, optionally, a pump stem. For example, the optical elements may be mounted on the pump stem.

[0083] Therefore, the term “photo-generating device” may also refer to a lamp, in particular a lamp having a light-transmitting sphere composed of one or more filaments and optical elements.

[0084] The photogenerating device may have a photogenerating device axis or an extension axis. For example, the external shape of the photogenerating device may have a rotation axis and / or one or more planes of symmetry, and may be essentially symmetrical, like many conventional light bulbs. In certain embodiments, the second extension axis may essentially coincide with the photogenerating device axis or the extension axis.

[0085] In some embodiments, the photogenerating device may comprise (i) a base and (ii) an outer sphere that together define an enclosure surrounding a plurality of elongated filaments and optical elements, the solid light source includes LEDs, and in certain embodiments, the elongated filaments are linear elongated elements.

[0086] In particular, the light-generating device is a retrofit lamp.

[0087] In embodiments, the light-generating device may be contained within or constitute an LED bulb or retrofit lamp that can be connected to the socket of a lamp or luminaire via some suitable connector. For example, an Edison spiral, a bayonet mount, or another type of connector known in the art that is suitable for lamps or luminaires. The connector may be connected to a base portion, which may functionally combine the elongated filament and optical elements.

[0088] The light-generating device may include a control system, for example, at least partially incorporated into the socket. The control system may be configured to control one or more of the following: the intensity of the filament light, the intensity of the light source from individual light sources or sets of light sources, the color point, the color temperature, etc.

[0089] The term “controlling” and similar terms particularly refer to determining the behavior of an element or managing the operation of an element. Therefore, in this specification, “controlling” and similar terms may refer, for example, to imposing behaviors on an element, such as measuring, displaying, operating, opening, transitioning, changing temperature, etc. (determining the behavior of an element or managing the operation of an element). Furthermore, the term “controlling” and similar terms may further include monitoring. Therefore, the term “controlling” and similar terms may include imposing behaviors on an element, and also imposing behaviors on an element and monitoring said element. Controlling an element can be done by a control system, which may also be referred to as a “controller.” Therefore, the control system and the element may be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. The element may include a control system. In embodiments, the control system and the element do not need to be physically coupled. Control can be performed via wired control and / or wireless control. The term "control system" may also refer to several different control systems that are functionally coupled, where, for example, one control system may be a master control system and one or more other control systems may be slave control systems. A control system may include a user interface, or may be functionally coupled to a user interface.

[0090] The control system may also be configured to receive and execute commands from a remote control. In embodiments, the control system may be controlled via an app on a portable device such as a smartphone or iPhone, tablet, etc. Therefore, the device is not necessarily coupled to the photogenerating device, but may be functionally coupled to it (temporarily).

[0091] Therefore, in embodiments, the control system may be configured to be controlled by an application on a remote device. In such embodiments, the control system for the photogenerating device may be a slave control system or control in slave mode. For example, the photogenerating device may be identifiable by a code, in particular a unique code for each photogenerating device. The control system for the photogenerating device may be configured to be controlled by an external control system having access to the photogenerating device based on knowledge entered through a user interface with a (unique) code optical sensor (e.g., a QR code reader). The photogenerating device may also include means for communicating with other systems or devices based on Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, BLE, or WiMAX, or other wireless technologies.

[0092] Therefore, in embodiments, the control system may be controlled in response to one or more of the input signals of the user interface, sensor signals (of sensors), and timers. The term “timer” may refer to a clock and / or a predetermined time scheme.

[0093] In further embodiments, the present invention provides a lamp comprising a photogenerating device as defined herein. Thus, in embodiments, the photogenerating device may be enclosed at least partially, or even entirely, by an enclosure. In particular, in embodiments, the lamp is a retrofit lamp.

[0094] This light-generating device may be part of, or applied to, an office lighting system, a home application system, a retail lighting system, a home lighting system, an accent lighting system, a spot lighting system, a theater lighting system, an optical fiber application system, a projection system, a self-illuminating 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, a city lighting system, a greenhouse lighting system, a garden lighting system, and so on. In particular, the light-generating device may be used for home or hospitality applications. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0095] Herein, embodiments of the present invention are described only by reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. [Figure 1a] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1b] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1c] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1d] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1e] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1f] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1g] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown. [Figure 1h] A schematic diagram of a retrofit lamp without optical elements and its associated intensity distribution is shown.

[0096] The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0097] Figure 1a schematically shows an embodiment of a photogenerating device 1000 comprising an LED filament 100. The LED filament 100 comprises a support 105, a set 107 of solid-state light sources 110, and an encapsulation material 160. The LED filament 100 has a length axis 108 having a first length L1. The solid-state light sources 110 are arranged on the support 105 over the first length L1 of the LED filament 100. The solid-state light sources 110 are configured to generate light source light 111. In embodiments, the solid-state light sources 110 may be configured to generate blue light source light 111. The encapsulation material 160 surrounds at least a portion of each of the solid-state light sources 110 in the set 107. The encapsulation material 160 includes a luminescent material 200 configured to convert at least a portion of the first light source light 111 into luminescent material light 201. In embodiments, the luminescent material 200 may be configured to convert at least a portion of the light source 111, particularly in combination with the blue light source 111, into luminescent material light 201 having one or more wavelengths of (i) green and / or red, and (ii) yellow and optionally red. Thus, the luminescent material may be configured to produce yellow and / or red light as a result of the conversion of at least a portion of the blue light. The luminescent material may also be configured to produce green and / or red light as a result of the conversion of at least a portion of the blue light. As described above, the term “luminescent material” may also refer to several different luminescent materials. In particular, the luminescent material may include the garnet luminescent material described above.

[0098] In particular, the light-generating device 1000 is configured to generate device light 1001 which includes one or more of the light source light 111 and the luminescent material light 201. Reference numeral 115 refers to the light-emitting surface of the solid light source 110, such as an LED die.

[0099] The solid-state light source 110 may be available on a substrate or support 105. Furthermore, the solid-state light source 110 (and the substrate 105) may be embedded in a light-transmitting material, such as a resin. The light-transmitting material surrounding the light source is indicated by reference numeral 145. In particular, the light-transmitting material may contain a luminescent material 200, such as by embedding it. In particular, the light-transmitting material 145 may be a resin that accepts the luminescent material 200, such as an inorganic luminescent material, into an organic resin. The resin may be, for example, an acrylate, a silicone resin, or an epoxy resin. The combination of the light-transmitting material 145 and the luminescent material is indicated herein as an encapsulant 160.

[0100] This embodiment schematically shows a cross-sectional view of the drawing plane, which also includes the length axis 108.

[0101] Figure 1b schematically shows a perspective view of the same embodiment as schematically shown in Figure 1a, in Embodiment I.

[0102] However, Embodiment II in Figure 1b schematically shows a perspective view of a curved filament. Note that the length axis 108 is also curved. The length axis may be the main axis of the support 105. The length of this axis is determined along axis 108. If the filament 100 can be curved in the plane of the filament 100, then the virtual plane can also be curved essentially identically to the curvature of the filament 200. In other words, if the support is curved in the plane of the support, then the length axis will also be curved, and similarly, the first virtual plane and the second virtual plane can also be curved. In Embodiment II in Figure 1b, the length axis begins on the left first plane, follows the curved main axis, and ends on the right second plane.

[0103] Embodiments I to VIII in Figure 1c show embodiments of the filament 100 as schematically shown in Figure 1a, but here they are cross-sectional views, i.e., cross-sectional views in a plane perpendicular to the drawing in Figure 1a (except for embodiments VII and VIII).

[0104] In Embodiment I of Figure 1c, for each of the solid light sources 110 in the set of solid light sources 110, the encapsulating material 160 is configured symmetrically with respect to a first virtual plane 171 that is parallel to the length axis 108 and intersects the solid light source 110. Note that this virtual plane 171 may be the drawing plane in Figure 1a.

[0105] In all other embodiments of Figure 1c, namely embodiments II to VIII, it applies that for each of the solid light sources 110 in the set of solid light sources 110, the encapsulating material 160 is configured asymmetrically with respect to a first virtual plane 171 that is parallel to the length axis 108 and intersects the solid light source 110. Referring to embodiments III, IV, V, and VI, it applies that for one or more of the solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in the embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, the length axis 107 lies within the first virtual plane 171. Referring to Embodiments II, III, IV, V, VII, and VIII, it applies that for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in the embodiment, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, the encapsulation material 160 is configured symmetrically with respect to a second virtual plane 172 configured parallel to a first virtual plane 171. Referring to Embodiment VI, it applies that for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in the embodiment, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, there is no second virtual plane 172 that serves as the basis for the symmetrical configuration of the encapsulation material 160. Referring to Embodiment V, it applies that for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in the embodiment, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, the encapsulating material 160 partially covers the solid light sources 110. Referring to Embodiments II, VII, and VIII, it applies that for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in the embodiment, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, the length axis 107 is not within the first virtual plane 171.Referring to embodiments VII and VIII, the encapsulating material 160 may be configured on both sides of the support 105. Referring to embodiment VIII, the solid-state light source 110 may be configured on both sides of the support 105. Of course, this may also apply to other embodiments, such as those schematically shown in embodiments II to VII.

[0106] Figure 1d schematically shows several optical directions of the device light 1001 at the top. For each direction, the device light 1001 may have color points.

[0107] In embodiments not shown in Figure 1d, for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in embodiments, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, it applies that the device light 1001 emitted from the solid light sources 110 and entering a third virtual plane 173 that is perpendicular to the first virtual plane and perpendicular to the support 105 in a different direction, has various color points, and the distribution of color points is not symmetrical with respect to the first virtual plane 171. Note that the virtual plane 173 may actually be the drawing plane in Figure 1c.

[0108] In the center of Figure 1d, an embodiment is schematically shown, in which a photogenerating device 1000 is configured to generate white device light 1001, and for one or more solid light sources, particularly multiple solid light sources (e.g., at least 5, e.g., at least 10, more specifically at least 15; e.g., in the embodiment, 50% of the total number of solid light sources in the set) 110, the device light 1001 emitted from the solid light sources 110 and entering a third virtual plane 173 which is perpendicular to a first virtual plane 171 and perpendicular to a different direction with respect to the support 105 has a range of correlated color temperatures, and the distribution of correlated color temperatures is not symmetrical with respect to the first virtual plane 171.

[0109] In an embodiment, the lower correlated color temperature TL is at most 2500 K, the higher correlated color temperature TH is at least 2300 K, and TL < TH. For example, the difference between the higher correlated color temperature TH and the lower correlated color temperature TL is at least 300 K.

[0110] Thus, FIG. 1d schematically shows an embodiment of a light generating device 1000 comprising one or more of the LED filaments 100. The light generating device 1000 is configured to generate a first device light 1011 in a first direction and a second device light 1021 in a second direction (different from the first direction), and the first device light 1011 and the second device light 1021 have different correlated color temperatures.

[0111] Thus, referring to embodiments II to VIII of FIG. 1c and FIG. 1d, in one or more light sources, the color points are measured along a circle surrounding each light source, the circle is perpendicular to the extension axis, and the intensity (energy basis) average color point on one side of the circle is different from the intensity (energy basis) average color point on the other side of the circle. For example, one or more of u' and v' may differ by at least 0.05, preferably at least about 0.06.

[0112] The color difference can be based on the fact that when the path length of the light source light through the encapsulant is longer, more conversion occurs and less light source light remains unconverted, while when the path length of the light source light is shorter, less conversion occurs and more light source light remains unconverted. Thus, in the case of an asymmetric distribution, an asymmetric distribution of the path length of the light source light is obtained, which is schematically shown at the bottom of FIG. 1d. In a particular embodiment, the (average) path length PL1 on one side (e.g., the left side) of the LED measured from the center (of the light output surface) is different from the average path length PL2 on the other side (e.g., the right side) of the LED. In particular, in an embodiment, PL1 > PL2, for example, PL1 ≧ 1.1 × PL2. In a particular embodiment, PL1 ≧ 1.2 × PL2. For example, in an embodiment, PL1 < PL2 ≦ 2.5 × PL1.

[0113] Figure 1e schematically shows an embodiment in which the filament 100 is spiral-shaped. Here again, the photogenerating device 1000 is configured to generate a first device light 1011 in a first direction and a second device light 1021 in a second direction (different from the first direction), and the first device light 1011 and the second device light 1021 have different correlated color temperatures. In particular, the first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

[0114] Figure 1f schematically shows a helical filament 100. Here, the photogenerating device 1000 includes a device axis A1, and a plurality of solid light sources 110 are configured along the length of the device axis A1, with two or more of the solid light sources 110 configured at different distances d1 from the device axis A1, and for two or more of the solid light sources 110, a second axis A2 parallel to the device axis A1 intersects with only one of the solid light sources 110. Thus, in this embodiment, the plurality of solid light sources 110 are configured in a spiral configuration, and the filament distance d2 to the length axis A1 increases in the direction along the device axis A1.

[0115] It appears that retrofit lamps with the appearance of incandescent light bulbs are valued and desired by users. To achieve this, the filament can simply be replaced with an LED that emits white light, using the infrastructure for manufacturing glass-based incandescent lamps.

[0116] One of the concepts is based on LED filaments placed inside such light bulbs. These lamps are highly regarded for their aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0117] Figure 1g schematically shows one embodiment of lamp 1 comprising a photogenerating device 1000 as defined herein. More specifically, the lamp comprises a plurality of such photogenerating devices. In particular herein, lamp 1 is a retrofit lamp.

[0118] Lamp 1 comprises, for example, (i) a base 14 and (ii) an outer sphere 13. The outer sphere, together with the base, may define an enclosure 113 that encloses a plurality of elongated filaments 100. Here, in this schematicly shown embodiment, the elongated filaments 100 are linear elongated elements 100. The photogenerating device 10 has a device axis or (device) extension axis 15. The device 10 is essentially rotationally symmetric about this axis 15 and / or has one or more (in this case, actually more) planes of symmetry, each containing the device extension axis 15. Reference numeral 16 indicates an optional pump stem.

[0119] Figure 1h schematically illustrates one embodiment of the application of lamp 1. A functional light having a higher CCT may be supplied to the table. Thus, this device light 1001 is shown as a second device light 1021. A warm white device light may be supplied to the ceiling. This device light 1001 is shown as reference numeral 1011. Reference numeral 301 refers to an optional user interface, and reference numeral 300 refers to an optimal control system for controlling the photogenerating device.

[0120] The term "plural" refers to two or more items.

[0121] The terms “substantially” or “essentially” and similar terms as used herein will be understood by those skilled in the art. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” may also include embodiments with “entirely,” “completely,” “all,” and so on. Therefore, in embodiments, the adjectives “substantially” or “essentially” may also 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 more specifically 99.5% or more.

[0122] The term "comprise" also includes embodiments in which the term "comprises" means "consists of".

[0123] The term "and / or" specifically relates to one or more of the items mentioned before or after it. For example, the phrase "item 1 and / or item 2," and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" may, in one embodiment, mean "consisting of," but in another embodiment, it may also mean "including at least the defined species, and optionally one or more other species."

[0124] Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" in the text and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe a sequential or chronological order. Such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and it should be understood that embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in other orders than those described or illustrated herein.

[0125] In this specification, devices, apparatus, or systems may be described in particular in their operation. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the present invention is not limited to methods of operation or to devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.

[0126] It should be noted that the embodiments described above are not limiting to the present invention, but rather illustrative, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0127] In a claim, no reference numeral in parentheses should be construed as limiting the claim.

[0128] The use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not preclude the existence of elements or steps other than those described in the claims. Throughout the text and claims, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the words "comprise," "comprising," etc., should be interpreted in a comprehensive sense, not exclusive or exhaustive, i.e., "includes, but is not limited to."

[0129] The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not preclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0130] The present invention may be implemented by hardware comprising several individual elements and by a appropriately programmed computer. In device claims, apparatus claims, or system claims that enumerate several means, some of these means may be embodied by a single identical hardware article. The mere fact that certain means are enumerated in different dependent claims does not imply that combinations of these means cannot be used advantageously.

[0131] The present invention also provides control systems that can control devices, apparatus, or systems, or that can perform methods or processes described herein. Furthermore, the present invention also provides computer program products that, when executed on a computer, control one or more controllable elements of a device, apparatus, or system, which are functionally coupled to or included by such devices, apparatus, or systems.

[0132] The present invention further applies to devices, apparatus, or systems that include one or more of the features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention further relates to methods or processes that include one or more of the features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0133] The various embodiments discussed in this patent can be combined to provide further advantages. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that three or more embodiments can be combined. Moreover, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. A light-generating device comprising an LED filament, wherein the LED filament comprises a support, a set of multiple solid light sources, and an encapsulation material, The LED filament has a longitudinal axis having a first length, The support supports a one-dimensional array of solid-state light sources on a certain plane of the support, The solid light source is arranged in a plane over the first length of the LED filament, and the solid light source is configured to generate light. The encapsulating material surrounds at least a portion of each of the solid light sources in the set of plurality of solid light sources, and the encapsulating material includes a luminescent material configured to convert at least a portion of the light from the light sources into luminescent material light. The light generation device is configured to generate device light, which includes one or more of the light source light and the luminescent material light. For each of the solid light sources in the set of multiple solid light sources, the encapsulating material is configured asymmetrically with respect to a first virtual plane that is parallel to the longitudinal axis, perpendicular to a certain plane, and intersects the solid light source. The photogenerating device is configured to generate white device light, and for a plurality of solid light sources, the device light emitted from each solid light source and entering a third virtual plane that is perpendicular to the first virtual plane and perpendicular to a certain plane has various correlated color temperatures, and the distribution of the correlated color temperatures is not symmetrical with respect to the first virtual plane. Lower correlated color temperature T Ｌ However, the maximum is 2500K, and the correlated color temperature T Ｈ However, it is at least 2300K, T Ｌ <T Ｈ Therefore, a higher correlated color temperature T Ｈ and a lower correlated color temperature T Ｌ A light-generating device whose temperature difference is at least 300K.

2. The photogenerating device according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal axis of one or more of the solid light sources is located within the first virtual plane.

3. The photogenerating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, with respect to a plurality of solid light sources, the encapsulating material is configured symmetrically with respect to a second virtual plane configured parallel to the first virtual plane.

4. The photogenerating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, with respect to a plurality of solid light sources, there is no second virtual plane that serves as a reference for the symmetric configuration of the encapsulating material, and the second virtual plane is defined as being configured parallel to the first virtual plane.

5. The photogenerating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the encapsulating material partially covers the solid light sources for a plurality of solid light sources.

6. The photogenerating device according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal axis of a plurality of solid-state light sources is not located within the first virtual plane.

7. The photogenerating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, for a plurality of solid light sources, the device light emitted from the solid light sources and entering the third virtual plane has various color points, and the distribution of the color points is not symmetrical with respect to the first virtual plane.

8. The photogenerating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, with respect to a plurality of solid-state light sources, the first path length of the light source on one side of each light source is different from the second path length of the light source on the other side of each light source.

9. The light-generating device according to claim 1, comprising one or more of the LED filaments, wherein the light-generating device is configured to generate a first device light in a first direction and a second device light in a second direction different from the first direction, and the first device light and the second device light have different correlated color temperatures.

10. The photogenerating device according to claim 9, wherein the first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

11. The light-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the LED filament has a three-dimensional helical configuration or a spiral configuration.

12. The photogenerating device according to claim 11, wherein the photogenerating device includes a device axis, a plurality of solid light sources are configured along the length of the device axis, two or more of the solid light sources are configured at different distances from the device axis, and for two or more of the solid light sources, a second axis parallel to the device axis intersects with only one of the solid light sources.

13. The photogenerating device according to claim 12, wherein a plurality of the solid light sources are arranged in a spiral configuration, and the filament distance to the device axis increases in a direction along the device axis.

14. A lamp comprising the light-generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the lamp is a retrofit lamp.

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