Light engine, light collection apparatus and methods thereof

Abstract

Embodiments generally relate to a light collection apparatus and a method thereof. A light collection apparatus may comprise at least one light collecting element having a tapered body configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end, at least one light intercepting face disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body, and a light delivery section projecting from the distal end of the tapered body, wherein the at least one light intercepting face is coupled to a light source such that light radiating from the light source is intercepted by the at least one light intercepting face, propagates through the tapered body and is delivered from a distal end of the light delivery section of the light collection apparatus, wherein the light source is configured to radiate antimicrobial blue light.

Description

"Light engine, light collection apparatus and methods thereof'Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2024902924, filed 13 September 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, and is hereby expressly made a part of this specification.Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to light engines, light collection apparatuses and methods of generating and collecting light using the light engines and light collection apparatuses.Background

[0003] Fibre optics systems can be categorised into two broad categories: communication systems and illumination systems. In fibre optic communication systems light is modulated to carry signals. Typically, very low energy levels are used, and the primary concern is the ability to faithfully transmit the modulation from input to output of the fibre, which can be hundreds of kilometres long. The primary purpose of fibre optic illumination systems is to segregate the light source from where the light is applied. The segregation may be required for many reasons, and the most common are safety, size and service access. Fibre optic illumination systems generally concern high energy levels, transmission distances not exceeding tens of meters and simple or no modulation of the light being transmitted. Both types of fibre optic system can be configured to transmit visible, infra-red and ultraviolet light.

[0004] Figure l is a schematic diagram of a typical fibre optic system. Almost all fibre optic systems share the basic architecture shown in Figure 1, which includes a light engine 1000 that generates the light and, through the provision of a particularly configured connector 1100, connects to the input or proximal end of a fibre optic conduit 1200 which has an output or distal end that is connected via another particularly configured connector 1300 to a light receptacle 1400, which may be an appliance to decode, distribute, repeat or absorb the emitted light.

[0005] Figure l is a schematic diagram of a typical fibre optic light engine of the fibre optic system of Figure 1. The fibre optic light engine 1000 also shares the basic architecture illustrated in Figure 2, where an electronic control apparatus 1500 energises, operates and controls one or more light sources 1600 according to the specific needs of the system. Light is collected from the source by specifically configured lenses, refractors and or reflectors 1700 and transmitted through a specifically configured coupler 1800 to be emitted into the fibre optic conduit 1200.

[0006] In some applications, fibre optic light engines may deliver blue light. However, LEDs for producing monochromatic blue light are unsuitable to provide the intensity needed for antimicrobial purposes as they have much lower individual power ratings (about 0.2 W to 1.0 W) compared to white light LEDs (which can exceed 100 W). Additional challenges arise when the blue light is generated by fibre optic light engines for the purpose of transmitting or directing the light through media with varying refractive or reflective properties, such as when an object is partially or fully immersed in liquid or foam, as such conditions can further reduce the effective intensity of light received at a target area for antimicrobial purposes.

[0007] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each of the appended claims.Summary

[0008] Some embodiments relate to a light collection apparatus comprising: at least one light collecting element having a tapered body configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end; at least one light intercepting face disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body; and a light delivery section projecting from the distal end of the tapered body; wherein the at least one light intercepting face is coupled to a light source such that light radiating from the light source is intercepted by the at least one light intercepting face, propagates through the tapered body and is delivered from a distal end of the light deliverysection of the light collection apparatus, wherein the light source is configured to radiate antimicrobial blue light.

[0009] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial blue light comprises one or more wavelengths in the range of 400 nm to 470 nm. In some embodiments, the tapered body may be elongate and conically shaped. In some embodiments, the tapered body may be elongate and multifaceted along its length. The tapered body may comprise a hexagonal transverse cross-section.

[0010] The light delivery section may be elongate, and cylindrical or multifaceted along its length. The light delivery section may be substantially uniform in cross section. In some embodiments, the light delivery section may be configured to connect to a fibre optic coupler. The light delivery section may be hexagonal in cross section.

[0011] In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may comprise: a plurality of light collecting elements, each light collecting element of the plurality of light collecting elements may have at least one light intercepting face disposed at a proximal end of the tapered body, wherein a distal end of the light collecting elements may merge into a shared light collecting zone that transitions into the light delivery section such that the light collected by the plurality of light collecting elements may be emitted from a distal end of the light delivery section.

[0012] The plurality of light collecting elements may be arranged radially. The plurality of light collecting elements may be arranged radially in a single plane. In some embodiments, the plurality of light collecting elements may be arranged radially in multiple planes. The plurality of light collecting elements may comprise seven light collecting elements.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least one light intercepting face may be configured to be coupled to a respective lens such that light radiating from the respective light source of the at least one light intercepting face passes through the respective lens before being intercepted by the at least one light intercepting face of the light collection apparatus. The light intercepting face may comprise an integral lens. The integral lens may be a Fresnel lens.

[0014] The tapered body may be fabricated from a substantially clear material. The light delivery section may be fabricated from a substantially clear material. The clear material mayinclude borosilicate glass, soda lime glass, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyamide and / or silicone.

[0015] In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may further comprise a light source coupled to the light collection apparatus. The light source may be a light emitting diode.

[0016] Some embodiments relate to a light engine comprising a light collection apparatus as described herein. In some embodiments, the light engine may further comprise a control system configured to control a dosage duration and / or intensity of light generated by the light source.

[0017] Some embodiments relate to a method of collecting light using the light collection apparatus as described herein.

[0018] Some embodiments relate to a method of collecting light, comprising: collecting light emitted by a light source using a lens and focusing the light into a narrow beam; intercepting the beam adjacent to the lens using the light collection apparatus as described herein; propagating the light through the tapered body of the light collection apparatus; and delivering the light from a distal end of the light delivery section of the light collection apparatus.

[0019] Some embodiments relate to a light collection array comprising a plurality of light collection apparatuses according to any of the embodiments described herein.

[0020] Throughout this specification the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.Brief Description of Drawings

[0021] Various ones of the appended drawings merely illustrate example embodiments of the present disclosure and cannot be considered as limiting its scope.

[0022] Figure l is a schematic diagram of a typical fibre optic system;

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a typical fibre optic light engine of the fibre optic system of Figure 1;

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic of an example light emitting diode (LED);

[0025] Figure 4 is a depiction of a typical light distribution pattern of the LED of Figure 3;

[0026] Figure 5 depicts the LED and light distribution pattern of Figure 4 alongside a fibre optic coupler;

[0027] Figure 6 is a schematic of the optical geometry of a conventional convex lens capable of focusing incident light onto a point beyond itself can be transmuted into a Fresnel lens;

[0028] Figure 7 is a simplified schematic of a typical miniature Fresnel lens;

[0029] Figure 8 illustrates in elevation a typical assembly of an LED mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) with a miniature Fresnel lens;

[0030] Figure 9A is a schematic diagram of a light engine architecture, according to some embodiments;

[0031] Figure 9B depicts a schematic of an assembly comprising an LED and a Fresnel lens, wherein the LED is radiating light in a Lambertian distribution onto the Fresnel lens that concentrates the light into a narrow beam;

[0032] Figure 10 depicts a schematic of light emitted by the LED of the assembly of Figure 9B being focused into a 15° beam 145 by the Fresnel lens of the assembly of Figure 9B and intercepted by an appropriately positioned fibre optic coupler;

[0033] Figure 11 depicts a plurality of assemblies of Figure 9B each arranged to focus light onto a common or same fibre optic coupler;

[0034] Figures 12A and 12B depict a schematic of a light source coupled to a light collection apparatus, according to some embodiments;

[0035] Figure 13 depicts a schematic of a light collection apparatus configured to cooperate with multiple light sources, according to some embodiments;

[0036] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a second light collection apparatus, according to some embodiments;

[0037] Figure 15A is a perspective view of a light collection array, according to some embodiments;

[0038] Figure 15B is a partial perspective view of the converged light delivery sections described in Figure 15 A, according to some embodiments;

[0039] Figure 15C is a cross-sectional view of an arrangement of the seven hexagonal light delivery sections shown in Figure 15B in a protective sheath, according to some embodiments;

[0040] Figure 16A is a plan view of an arrangement of three light delivery sections of respective light collection apparatus illuminating a light admission surface of a fibre optic light coupler, according to some embodiments;

[0041] Figure 16B shows an end view of a light admission surface of a fibre optic light coupler being illuminated by seven cylindrical light delivery sections of respective light collection apparatus, according to some embodiments;

[0042] Figure 17 is a diagram of a light delivery system, according to some embodiments;

[0043] Figure 18 is a process flow diagram of a method of collecting light using any one of the described light collection apparatus, according to some embodiments; and

[0044] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of a second light engine architecture, according to some embodiments.Detailed Description

[0045] The present disclosure generally relates to light engines, light collection apparatuses and methods of collecting light using the light engines and light collection apparatuses. In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may be used for transmission by fibre optic conduit to a remote light emitter device. In particular, such light engines and light collecting apparatuses may be used for applications where high intensity multispectral blue light is utilised for antimicrobial tasks. In some embodiments, this present disclosure concerns improvements specific to the light collector 1700 and coupler 1800 aspects as would be used in a fibre optic illumination system using medium and high power discrete LEDs as light sources. The term "light" as used herein may refer to any sort of optical radiation, including radiation in the visible, infrared, and ultraviolet ranges. Some embodiments of the light engines, light collection apparatus and methods disclosed herein may advantageously improve the efficiency with which light is aggregated from a large number of light sources, such as LEDs, via individual close coupled optics into a small area for transmission by means of optic fibre. In this way, some embodiments of the present disclosure may provide improved intensity and high intensity transmission of light by generating and concentrating the light emitted from light sources.

[0046] In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus and light engines described herein generate high-intensity multi-spectral blue light for disinfection and pathogen suppression, and may deliver such light via fibre to transparent light-conducting objects suitable for wet environments.

[0047] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an example light emitting diode (LED). Figure 3 illustrates a typical medium power LED 100 in a common format marketed as “3030” nominally having a 3 mm x 3 mm footprint and 1 mm high with a centrally located circular flat or domed light emission area 110. The improvements provided by the embodiments described herein can be applied to almost any type or size of LED. The term “LED” generally includes light emitting diodes of all types and also includes, but is not limited to, light emitting polymers, semiconductor dies that produce light in response to a current, organic LEDs, electron luminescent strips, super luminescent diodes (SLDs) and other such devices. The term LED does not restrict the physical or electrical packaging of any of the above and that packaging could include, but is not limited to, surface mount, chip-on-board, or T- package mount LEDs. The common LED format shown in figure 3 will be used herein forsimplicity and clarity without limiting embodiments or applications of the present disclosure to the description. It will be appreciated that other types and / or forms of LEDs may be used.

[0048] Figure 4 is a depiction of a typical light distribution pattern of the LED of Figure 3. The intensity of light emitted from the area 110 of LED 100 is not uniform in all directions and can be usefully described by a polar diagram shown in Figure 4. The LED 100 is illustrated in elevation with the emission surface (not shown) facing towards the 0° direction, the relative luminous flux radiation intensity at specific angles is indicated by the length of vector arrows 120, and the intermediate intensities described by the curve 130. Such polar curves are widely used to describe the light distribution intensity of LEDs, lamps and light fixtures.

[0049] Figure 4 shows the natural light distribution of almost all LEDs, which may be referred to as Lambertian light sources that emit light uniformly in all directions over a hemisphere, meaning that the intensity of the light is the same regardless of the angle at which it is observed, creating a smooth and even light distribution. That is, the light distribution of LEDs is substantially almost uniform in all hemispherical directions. Figure 4 also shows that practically all the useful luminous flux emitted by the LED 100 is contained in a 140° arc, which would translate into a similar solid angle.

[0050] As described with reference to Figure 2, the function of a light engine is to collect light from LED 100 and deliver it into the fibre optic coupler 1800. Figure 5 depicts the LED and light distribution pattern of Figure 4 alongside a fibre optic coupler. Figure 5 provides more detailed information by incorporating a fibre optic coupler 160 (equivalent to 1800 shown in Figure 2) to the light distribution shown in Figure 4. This helps to ensure that the relative dimensions and offset between the LED 100 and the light admission face 170 of coupler 160 are realistic and representative of typical embodiments found in the market.

[0051] Significantly, Figure 5 provides an illustration that most of the light emitted by LED 100 would not be intercepted by the light admission face 170.

[0052] Most of the emitted light from LED 100 may be redirected to reach the light admission face 170, and this can be achieved through a multitude of means such as reflectors, refractors and lenses, singularly or in combination. However, whilst reflectors and conventional lenses can deliver good results, they are relatively large and suit single highpowered light sources such as those realised in legacy incandescent and high intensity discharge lamps better than LEDs.

[0053] Figure 6 is a schematic of the optical geometry of a conventional convex lens capable of focusing incident light onto a point beyond itself can be transmuted into a Fresnel lens. The light admission or input surface 158A of the conventional lens is sectioned and reformed into surface 158B. Similarly, the light emission surface 155 A is sectioned and reformed into surface 155B. The primary benefit of this being a much thinner lens.

[0054] Figure 7 is a schematic of a typical miniature Fresnel lens. Figure 7 illustrates the simplified outside appearance of a typical example of a miniature Fresnel lens. The lens 150 is designed for use with a 3030 format LED (such as that shown in Figure 3), and such lenses are available for almost any type of LED. The light collected from the LED (not shown) by lens 150 is emitted from the surface 155 in a large variety of beam angles and shapes to suit almost any light application.

[0055] Figure 8 illustrates, in elevation, a typical assembly of an LED mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) with a miniature Fresnel lens. The LED 100 is shown mounted on a printed circuit board “PCB” 115 along with a miniature Fresnel lens 150. Light from the LED is admitted to the lens through surface 158 and emitted from surface 155. In context of the present disclosure, a typical desired outcome of the assembly shown in Figure 8 would be a narrow beam of light that can be aimed at the fibre optic coupler 160, such as that shown in Figure 5.

[0056] Figure 9A is a schematic diagram of a light engine architecture 900, according to some embodiments. The light engine architecture 900 is configured to generate light and deliver it to an external device through a fibre optic system. The light engine 900 includes an electronic control apparatus 905 configured to control one or more light sources 910. In some embodiments, the light engine 900 is configured to energise, operate, control and / or manage the output of one or more light sources 910, via the electronic control apparatus 905. For example, the electronic control apparatus 905 may control the one or more light sources 910 according to specific requirements or needs. The Light sources 9010 may comprise one or more LEDs. Light emitted by the light sources 910 may be collected by light collector 915. Light collector 915 may comprise one or more optical elements such as, but not limited to, specifically configured lenses, refractors and / or reflectors, such as those described herein.Light collector 915 may be configured to concentrate and / or transmit the light emitted from the light sources 910 toward an input coupler 920. The input coupler 920 may be a fibre-optic input coupler, and the light collector 915 may be configured to concentrate and / or transmit the light through the coupler 920 to be emitted into a fibre optic conduit 925. In some embodiments, the fibre optic conduit may comprise multiple optic fibres in a protective sheath. In some embodiments, the input coupler 920 transmits the collected light into the fibre optic conduit 925 via a proximal connector 930. The fibre optic conduit 925 terminates at a distal connector 935 interfacing to a light receptacle or light emitting apparatus 940.

[0057] In operation, the control apparatus 905 may be configured to regulate dosage duration and intensity delivered by the light sources 910. Thermal management, for example, via heatsinking and / or control strategies coordinated by electronic control apparatus 905 maintains safe operating conditions for the opto-electronic components within the light engine 900. The optical path within the light engine 900, using light collector 915, aggregates the light from light sources 910 onto the single admission face of the coupler 920, enabling efficient light transmission into the fibre-optic conduit 925 and subsequent delivery to the light emitting apparatus 940 via connector 935. The light engine architecture 900 Of Figure 9A segregates the light engine from the point of application while relying on aggregation of light inside the light engine 900 prior to transmission into a single input coupler 920.

[0058] In some embodiments, the light engine architecture 900 may comprise an array of LEDs as the one or more light sources 910. The array of LEDs may be arranged around the optical axis of the input coupler 920, with each LED cooperating with a compact lens (for example, a miniature Fresnel lens) to form a narrow beam that converges on a common admission surface of the input coupler 920.

[0059] In some embodiments, there is provided a light engine configured to deliver light to an external device, comprising an electronic control apparatus, one or more light sources including one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), a light collector comprising one or more optical elements configured to receive light emitted by the light sources and direct the received light toward an input coupler, and a fibre-optic conduit optically coupled to the input coupler. The input coupler admits the light directed by the light collector into the fibre-optic conduit for transmission to the external device. The electronic control apparatus may regulate dosage duration and intensity delivered by the light sources, and thermal management may be provided by the electronic control apparatus to maintain safe operating conditions for theopto-electronic components. The light collector may include one or more lenses, refractors, and / or reflectors and is configured to aggregate light from the light sources onto a single admission face of the input coupler. The fibre-optic conduit may be coupled to the input coupler via a proximal connector and terminate at a distal connector configured to interface with a light receptacle or light-emitting apparatus. In some embodiments, the light sources may comprise an array of LEDs arranged around an optical axis of the input coupler, each LED cooperating with a compact lens, such as a miniature Fresnel lens, to form a beam converging on a common admission surface of the input coupler. The fibre-optic conduit may include multiple optical fibres within a protective sheath. A light delivery system may include the light engine and a light-emitting apparatus coupled to the distal end of the fibre-optic conduit. A method for controlling delivery of light using any one of the light engines described herein includes controlling one or more light sources using an electronic control apparatus, collecting light emitted by the light sources with a light collector and directing the collected light to an input coupler, admitting the collected light into a fibre-optic conduit via the input coupler, and transmitting the admitted light through the fibre-optic conduit for delivery to a light-emitting apparatus.

[0060] Figure 9B depicts a schematic of an assembly comprising an LED and a Fresnel lens, wherein the LED is radiating light in a Lambertian distribution onto Fresnel lens. LED 100 radiates light 120 in a Lambertian distribution onto Fresnel lens 150. This is shown in Figure 9B in a simplified form but includes an example of proportionally correct dimensions relative to the LED 100.

[0061] The lens 150 re-emits the light rays 125 into a narrow beam described by the luminous intensity curve 135. A 15° beam 145 containing 80% of the luminous flux 120 emitted by the LED 100 would be considered an excellent result. When the assembly described in Figures 8 and 9 is applied to a fibre optic light engine, the result can be described through Figure 10. Figure 10 depicts a schematic of light emitted by the LED of the assembly of Figure 9B. The light emitted by LED 100 is focused into a 15° beam 145 by lens 150 and when the light admission face 170 of a fibre optic coupler. The fibre optic coupler is appropriately positioned such that it will substantially completely intercept the beam 145.

[0062] The relative dimensions and locations of the elements in Figure 10 are proportionally correct to describe the geometry. In the illustration the diameter of the optic coupler is shown as 10 mm. This dimension is selected because it would be appropriate for a wide range ofoptical fibre illumination applications, however, it will be appreciated that in the context of the present disclosure, embodiments are not limited to such specific dimensions.

[0063] Among the limitations of LEDs is that each LED emits a small amount of light compared to legacy light sources such as high intensity discharge lamps, and thus multiple LEDs must be arrayed to deliver comparable luminous flux.

[0064] Figure 11 depicts a plurality of assemblies of Figure 9B each arranged to focus light onto a common or same fibre optic coupler. That is, Figure 11 illustrates how an array of LEDs 100 A, 100B and 100C could be arranged to deliver their light into a common fibre optic coupler 160. Figure 11 shows three instances of LEDs in the array, but it will be appreciated that other arrangements and numbers of LEDs are possible, such as a three- dimensional array of nine LEDs arranged symmetrically around an axis centred longitudinally on the coupler 160.

[0065] Figure 11 is also useful to discuss and describe some of the significant limitations and inefficiencies of the existing devices and methods. The relative physical dimensions of LED 100 to lens 150 as shown in Figures 8, 9, 10 and 11 are governed by the laws of physics, including the optical laws of refraction and the refractive indices of the materials used to produce lenses and the air surrounding the LEDs and lenses.

[0066] These physical constraints limit the available locations to place LEDs in an array to that illustrated in Figure 11, the size of the lenses 150A, 150B, and 150C (already minimised as Fresnel lenses) sets a minimum angular offset, and the beam angle 145A, 145B, and 145C limits the distance offset from the fibre optic coupler 160.

[0067] The radial distance from surface 170 is the same for all three assemblies, but the angular offset of the LED & lens assembly diminishes the amount of light intercepted by the face 170. The impact of this can be described graphically by comparing what occurs to beam 145A, 145B and 145C respectively when they intersect surface 170. The whole beam 145A is intercepted by surface 170 (shown as angle 146A), most of beam 145B is intercepted by surface 170 (shown as angle 146B) and much less of beam 145C is intercepted by surface 170 (shown as angle 146C). The relationship angle and surface intercept is described trigonometrically in the Cosine law. The angular impact is further amplified by Fresneloptical laws, which state that as lights strikes a surface at more acute angles, less light is admitted, and more is reflected.

[0068] With reference to the configuration shown in Figure 11, an arrangement of nine LEDs and lenses illuminating one fibre optic light coupler is the practical limit. In this example, the increasing angular offset of the LEDs decrease their effective contribution, and therefore the intercepted beam 146B delivers approximately 70% of the light from LED 100B, and beam 146C delivers approximately 30% of the light from LED 100C. Extrapolating this for an array of nine LEDs produces an overall system efficiency of about 62.5% relative to the light produced. Assuming a typical LED produces 100 lumens, such a configuration would likely deliver 562 lumen of the 900 produced into the light coupler 160. Therefore, 562 lumen is the practical energy limit that a light engine using the configuration of Figure 11 can practically produce. Further, achieving and maintaining the alignment illustrated in Figure 11 requires high precision manufacture and assembly, as well as mechanically robust and heavy construction that is highly sensitive to misalignment induced by shocks and vibration.

[0069] In summary, Figure 11 illustrates that there are substantial practical limits and rapidly diminishing returns for LEDs arrays when used in fibre optic light engines based on commercial miniature Fresnel lenses, and even more when using reflectors, refractors of conventional lenses that are all much larger compared to the LEDs than the miniature Fresnel lenses.

[0070] To address or ameliorate the disadvantages and limitations of the existing light engines described herein, or to provide a useful alternative, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a light collecting apparatus. In some embodiments, the light collecting apparatus may be referred to as a close-coupled light collector. A close-coupled light collector may refer to the light collecting apparatus as described herein which is coupled with a light source.

[0071] In some embodiments, there is provided a light collection apparatus comprising: a tapered body configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end; one or more light intercepting faces disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body; and a light delivery section projecting from the distal end of the tapered body; wherein the one or more light intercepting faces are configured to be coupled to a respective light source such that lightradiating from the light source is intercepted by the respective light intercepting face, propagates through the tapered body and is delivered from a distal end of the light delivery section of the light collection apparatus.

[0072] The term “couple” and its derivatives may refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, whether or not those elements are in physical contact with one another. For example, "couple" may include, but is not limited to, joining, connecting, fastening, linking, or associating two things integrally or interstitially together.

[0073] Figures 12A depicts a schematic of a light source coupled to a light collection apparatus 200, according to some embodiments. The light collection apparatus includes at least one light collecting element having a tapered body 210 configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end. In some embodiments, the proximal end may be larger than the distal end and / or the distal end may be smaller than the proximal end. In some embodiments, the tapered body is elongate and conically shaped. In some embodiments, the tapered body is elongate and multi-faceted along its length. In some embodiments, the tapered body is substantially shaped as a tapering hexagonal prism, and comprises a hexagonal transverse cross-section. The light collection apparatus 200 includes at least one intercepting face 230 disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body 210. Light emitted by LED 100 and converted into a narrow beam by lens 150 is intercepted wholly by the at least one light intercepting face 230 immediately adjacent to the lens. The tapered body 210 may be fabricated from a substantially clear material, such as borosilicate glass, soda lime glass, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyamide and / or silicone.

[0074] The same optical laws and materials utilised to produce the miniature Fresnel lens 150 and enable light transmission along optical fibres force total internal reflection to occur when internally transmitted light hits the internal surface of the tapered body 210. In some embodiments, internally transmitted light may hit the internal surface of tapered body 210 at an angle which is substantially close to being parallel to the surface. For example, the angle may be a glancing angle or a grazing angle. In some embodiments, the light hits the surface of the light intercepting face 230 at a glancing angle of between about 50° and 70° In some embodiments, the glancing angels may be up to 70°. In some embodiments where a 15° lens is used, at least 50% of the light energy will be in the beam, and less than 10% outside a 30° beam (that is, twice the nominal beam), wherein the less than 10% outside a 30° beam may be at glancing angles in the range of about 50° to 60°.

[0075] By applying conical geometry to the tapered body 210 of the light collection apparatus 200, substantially all the light admitted through the at least one intercepting face 230 may be delivered into a light delivery section 220. The light delivery section 220 projects from the distal end of the tapered body 210. In some embodiments, the light delivery section 220 is elongate. In some embodiments, the light delivery section 220 may be cylindrical or multifaceted along its length. In some embodiments, the light delivery section 220 is substantially uniform in cross section. The light delivery section 220 may have a reduced diameter relative to the tapered body 210. The length of the light delivery section 220 is flexible and can be adjusted based on acceptable transmission losses, which are typically minimal over standard lengths. In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 12A, the relative geometry of the light delivery section 220 is correct for a 3 mm diameter extension. In some embodiments, the length of the light delivery section 220 may be considered arbitrary, that is, ultimately limited by what is determined to be acceptable transmission losses. For example, acceptable transmission losses may be typically <1% per linear meter when the length of the tapered body 210 is around 200 mm. The light delivery section 220 may be fabricated from a substantially clear material, such as borosilicate glass, soda lime glass, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyamide and / or silicone.

[0076] Rays 125A and 125B illustrate light emitted from the edge of the light emitting surface (not shown) of lens 150 to the limits of total internal reflection, allowing useful light acceptance to occur in the tapered body. Useful light acceptance refers to the ability of the light collection apparatus 200 to effectively capture and utilise the light emitted from a light source. In some embodiments, the ability of the light collection apparatus 200 to effectively capture the light may be dependent on the range of angles of the light intercepting faces 230 in the tapered body 210, and / or conditions under which the light emitted from the light source 100 is efficiently intercepted by the light intercepting faces 230 and propagated through the tapered body 210.

[0077] Ray 125 A represents light emitted 7.5° above the central axis of lens 150 (the edge of a 15° beam), through the at least one light intercepting face 230, and intercepted by the tapered body 210 of the light collection apparatus 200, in proximity to the at least one light intercepting face 230. Ray 125B represents light emitted 17.5° below the central axis of lens 150 (that is, well outside the intended beam). The light from ray 125B intersects the opposite surface of the tapered body 210 further from the at least one intercepting face 230 than ray 125 A. After striking the surface of the tapered body 210, rays 125 A and 125B are directedinto the light delivery section 220. The typical 15° angular spread of light beam 145 emitted from lens 150 is shown through line 146 relative to the 25° acceptance angle for total internal reflection.

[0078] Some embodiments of the light collection apparatus, such as that shown in Figure 12A, may provide efficiencies over the existing configurations shown in Figure 10. Additionally, some embodiments of the light collection apparatus provide further efficiencies and improvements, as shown in Figure 13.

[0079] In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may be formed from materials including, but not limited to, silicone, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or polycarbonate (PC). In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may be formed from the same materials used to manufacture miniature Fresnel lenses. This enables the optical function of such a lens to be integrated into the device. In some embodiments, all or some of the light collection apparatus may be integrally formed. In some embodiments, components of the light collection apparatus may be modularly formed and coupled or connected together to form the light collection apparatus.

[0080] In some embodiments, the geometry of the at least one intercepting face 230, and / or the area surrounding the at least one light intercepting face 230, may be adjusted so as to provide an optical device with an integrated Fresnel light intercepting face. Figure 12B depicts a schematic of a light source coupled to a light collection apparatus 300, according to some embodiments. The optical device 300 comprises a light collection apparatus with a light intercepting face comprising an integral lens, such as an integrated Fresnel light acceptance surface 320, and light delivery section 310. In some embodiments, the light delivery section 310 may be cylindrical. The optical device 300 may include equivalent optical engineering, tooling and production investment as shown in the configuration of Figure 12 whilst eliminating the component cost of the miniature Fresnel lens and associated production and assembly costs, thereby creating a more economical device.

[0081] Further advantages arise when a plurality of light collection apparatuses are used in a configuration. For example, there may be further advantages where a configuration includes a plurality of light collection apparatuses used in an array. Due to the arbitrary length of the cylindrical light delivery section 310, it becomes feasible to aggregate a plurality of the tapered bodies of the light collection apparatus to illuminate the light admission surface 170of a fibre optic coupler 160. In some embodiments, the LED array layout can remain independent of the fibre optic coupler 160. Such a configuration can provide cost efficiency over the configurations shown in Figure 11.

[0082] Additional configurations of the light collecting apparatus may include aggregating multiple light collecting elements into a single light collection apparatus 350 such as that illustrated in Figure 13. Figure 13 depicts a schematic of a light collection apparatus configured to cooperate with multiple light sources, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus shown in Figure 13 may be referred to as a light collection aggregator. The light collection apparatus 350 comprises a plurality of light collecting elements 300A to 300G arranged radially. In some embodiments, the plurality of light collecting elements are arranged radially in a single plane. In some embodiments, the plurality of light collecting elements are arranged radially in multiple planes. A distal end of the light collecting elements 300 A to 300G merge into a shared light collecting zone that transitions into a single extension such that the collected light is emitted from a distal end of the extension. In some embodiments, the shared light collecting zone may be an aggregate of a section of each light collecting element of the light collecting apparatus 350. In some embodiments, the shared light collecting zone may be formed by the aggregate of the distal ends of the light collecting elements merging into the light collecting zone. As the light in each light collecting element travels axially until it encounters a surface from where it is reflected, the shared light collecting zone advantageously does not have to include additional space in order to propagate light from the light collecting elements to the single extension.

[0083] In some embodiments, a light collection apparatus may include two or more light collecting elements. In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may include between 5 and 7 light collecting elements. In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may include 5 light collecting elements. In some embodiments, the light collection apparatus may include 7 light collecting elements. The number of light collecting elements in the light collection apparatus may be determined based on the application of the light collection apparatus. For example, the number of light collecting elements may be based on optical losses (such as a maximum offset angle of 350 to 310) and / or the manufacturing cost of the light collecting apparatus.

[0084] An array of seven of LEDs 100A to 100F is shown illuminating the radially arranged array of multiple light collecting elements 300 A to 300G. In some embodiments, the pluralityof light collecting elements may be integrally formed or modularly formed and attached together. In some cases, the plurality of light collecting elements may be referred to as “fingers” of the light collection apparatus 350. Each light collecting element 300A to 300G is configured to deliver light into a light delivery section 310. A distal end of the light collecting elements 300 A to 300G merge into a shared light collecting zone that transitions into a single extension in the form of a light delivery section 310, such that the collected light is emitted from a distal end of the light delivery section 310. In some embodiments, the light delivery section 310 may be a cylindrical extension. In some embodiments, the light delivery section 310 may be a parallel-sided multifaceted extension.

[0085] The number of “fingers” in the light collection apparatus 350 may be limited by the physical dimensions of the one or more light intercepting faces and total internal reflection optical laws.

[0086] In some embodiments, the light delivery section 310 of the light collection apparatus 350 may be arranged to simultaneously illuminate the light admission surface 170 of a fibre optic light coupler 160 while the LED array layout inside the light engine 1000 can be independent of the fibre optic light coupler. In some embodiments, the fibre optic light coupler may include one or more safety interlocks to secure the coupling of the light delivery section to a fibre optic light coupler.

[0087] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a second light collection apparatus, according to some embodiments. The light collection apparatus 350 includes a radially arranged array of five distinct light collecting elements, each having a tapered body configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end. A light intercepting face 150A is disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body of each light collecting elements. As shown, the light intercepting faces are coupled to a respective light source 100 A such that light radiating from the light source is intercepted by the light intercepting face and propagates through each tapered body of the light collecting elements. The light collecting elements shown are multifaceted with a substantially hexagonal transverse cross-section. The distal end of each the light collecting element merge into a shared light collecting zone that transitions into a light delivery section. In some embodiments, the distal end of each of the light collecting elements feed directly into a light delivery section 310. The light delivery section 310 is configured to propagate the light collecting by the light collecting elements, through the light delivery section and emit the collected light from a distal end of the light delivery section.

[0088] In some embodiments of the light collection apparatus 350, up to 90% of the light produced by any of the LEDs 100A may enter the light delivery section 310. Assuming the LEDs 100A each produce 100 lumen, the light collection apparatus 350, such as that shown in Figure 14, would deliver 450 lumen of the 500 produced from the light delivery section 310. In a system having seven light collecting elements, such as that shown in Figure 13, 630 lumen of the 700 produced would be directed into the light coupler 160. In some embodiments, of the light collection apparatus 350, 90% to 99% of the light produced by any of the LEDs 100A may enter the light delivery section 310.

[0089] In some embodiments, each LED’s natural Lambertian emission is conditioned, for example, into a narrow beam, and then individually intercepted by a proximal light-intercepting face of a corresponding tapered light-collecting element. The admitted rays enter the tapered body of a light collection apparatus at angles that promote total internal reflection, causing efficient axial propagation into the distal light delivery section. In some embodiments, multiple light collecting elements, each having an individual LED as their light source, may then transmit the collected light into a second-stage conical aggregator (or a group aggregator), which merges the distal regions of the light collecting elements into a shared light-collecting zone and a single extension for emission (also referred to as a light aggregating tail). Such configuration thereby preserves high efficiency light capture from each LED.

[0090] In some embodiments, an array of group aggregators may be cascaded so that their respective light delivery sections collectively define a highly compact, contiguous, substantially planar emission surface. For example, a plurality of light collection apparatuses, such as those shown in Figure 13 or Figure 14, may be cascaded or arranged such their respective light delivery sections, for example, light delivery section 310, defines a substantially planar emission surface.

[0091] Figure 15A is a perspective view of a light collection array 500, according to some embodiments. The light collection array 500 comprises a plurality of light collection apparatuses 510A, 510B, 510C, 510D, 510E, 51 OF and 510G, each light collection apparatus 510A to 510G including a plurality of light collecting elements 515 configured to gather light from individual light sources, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Figure 15A shows seven light collection apparatuses 510A to 510G having hexagonally configured light delivery sections 520A to 520G. The light delivery section is similar to 310 of Figure 14. The collectedlight is channelled through the corresponding light delivery section 520A to 520G (also referred to as an aggregator tail) of each light collection apparatus.

[0092] The light delivery sections 520A to 520G of the respective collection apparatuses 510A to 510G are arranged to converge such that their distal end 525 A to 525G (as shown in Figures 15B and 15C) are positioned adjacent one another. This arrangement forms a compact, contiguous, and substantially planar emission surface 530. For example, as shown in Figure 15 A, the distal ends of the light delivery sections 520A to 520G of each light collection apparatus 510A to 510G come together to form a substantially planner emission surface 530. The planar emission surface 530 may be configured as an optical interface suitable for coupling to an optical fibre or fibre optic coupler. The arrangement shown in Figure 15 A enables efficient aggregation of light from a large number of light sources into a single output interface to enhance light delivery performance. The arrangement mitigates angular losses typically associated with free-space optical combination, and allows for improved coupling efficiency and spatial uniformity in the emitted light profile.

[0093] Figure 15B is a partial perspective view of the converged distal ends 525A, 525B, 525C, 525D, 525E, 525F, 525G of the respective light delivery sections 520A to 520G shown in Figure 15 A, according to some embodiments. These distal ends are bundled together to form a light transmission cable 540, for example, a fibre optic cable. The distal ends of the individual light delivery sections 525 A to 525G are enclosed within a protective sheath 535, which maintains the structural integrity and alignment of the bundle to form the cable. In some embodiments, all or part of the light delivery sections 520A to 520G may also be enclosed by the protective sheath 535. The protective sheath 535 is shown as transparent in Figure 15B, but may be opaque in some embodiments. The protective sheath 535 may be configured to improve mechanical durability and environmental protection for the light delivery sections 520A to 520G. This configuration allows for the transmission of aggregated light from multiple sources to travel through the light collection apparatuses into a single, compact conduit.

[0094] Figure 15C is a cross-sectional view of cable 540 formed from the protective sheath 535 and distal ends of light delivery sections 525 A to 525G shown in Figure 15B, according to some embodiments. The cable 540 comprises the distal ends of the light delivery sections 525 A to 525G that are arranged adjacent one another. As shown in Figure 15C, distal end 525 A of light delivery section 520A forms a central core, with the six remaining distal ends525B 525C, 525D, 525E, 525F and 525G being arranged peripherally around the central core. Each of the light delivery sections has a hexagonal cross sectional geometry. This geometric configuration ensures optimal packing density and uniform light distribution across the cable 540 cross-section. The entire assembly is encased within the protective sheath 535, which provides mechanical support and optical isolation. The hexagonal cross section of the distal ends 525A to 525G enables efficient coupling to planar optical interfaces and supports high- fidelity light delivery from multiple sources.

[0095] In some embodiments, the light delivery section of each light collection apparatus is formed with a substantially hexagonal transverse cross-section, as exampled by Figures 15 A, 15B and 15C. In some embodiments, the light delivery section of each light collection apparatus may be multifaceted. When multiple light collection apparatuses are packed in an array, the hexagonal geometry produces a contiguous emission surface with minimal interstitial gaps compared other geometries, such as circular sections. The hexagonal geometry thereby reduces dark spots at the emission plane and lowers interface losses at the coupler by increasing effective fill factor. This hexagonal geometry packing of the light delivery sections facilitates the creation of a continuous free optical emission surface when several collectors are arranged, while remaining compatible with the coupler interface.

[0096] Some embodiments relate to a light engine featuring the light collection apparatus described herein, for example, light collection apparatus 200, light collection apparatus 350 or light collection apparatus 500. In some embodiments, the light engine may be configured to collect light, or luminous flux from one or more light sources. The light engine may include one or more light sources disposed within the light engine. In some embodiments, the light source may include one or more LEDs. In some embodiments, the light source may include an LED array. The light engine uses the light collection apparatus to optimise light propagation and delivery. The light collection apparatus comprises at least one light collecting element having a tapered body configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end. The proximal end includes one or more light intercepting faces configured to be coupled to respective light sources. This configuration allows light radiating from the light sources to be intercepted by the respective light intercepting face, propagated through the tapered body, and delivered from the distal end of the light delivery section projecting from the tapered body.

[0097] In some embodiments, a light delivery section of the light collection apparatus is configured to simultaneously illuminate the light admission surface of a fibre optic light coupler. This arrangement allows the LED array layout within the light engine to be independent of the fibre optic light coupler. The light engine may generate a light from the light source within a specific wavelength range.

[0098] In some embodiments, the light engine may be configured to connect with objects such as devices, tubes or pads to enable highly controllable light emission, transmission and occultation zones. In some embodiments, the light engine may be modular, and / or portable. In some embodiments, the light engine may have dimensions of approximately 190 mm long (excluding heatsink) x 160 mm wide x 30 mm high. In some embodiments, the light engine may be co-located and / or connected to complementary equipment which uses the light engine.

[0099] Some embodiments of the light collection apparatus and / or the light engine disclosed herein may be configured for use with a light delivery apparatus, such as that discussed in Australian provisional patent application 2024902921, entitled “Light delivery apparatus”, filed on 13 September 2024 in the name of Lindo Technology Group Pty Ltd, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0100] In some embodiments, the light may comprise one or more wavelengths in one or more wavelength ranges, including but not limited to, 405 nm to 420 nm, 420 nm to 450 nm, 450 nm to 470 nm, and / or 470 nm to 500 nm. In some embodiments, the light may comprise 405 nm and 450 nm wavelengths. However, it has been observed that commercial LED devices suitable for the disclosed architectures may exhibit peak wavelengths that vary by binning and manufacturer. Accordingly, a combination of wavelengths may include around 445 nm and 459 nm in one example, and around 406 nm and 396 nm in another example.

[0101] In some embodiments, the light engine is configured to generate high-intensity, multi-spectral blue light. Such generated blue light may be antimicrobial blue light. The antimicrobial blue light may comprise one or more wavelengths in the range about 400 to 500 nm. For example, the antimicrobial blue light may be used for disinfection, pathogen suppression and / or biofilm suppression. The light within this band may be produced by combining the outputs of multiple LEDs having disparate spectral distributions inside the light collection apparatus and delivered as a controlled dosage by an electronic controlapparatus that forms part of the light engine. The light engine architectures described herein enable reliable delivery of antimicrobial blue light to a fibre optic coupler and downstream light-conducting objects.

[0102] In some embodiments, the delivery of light described herein is deployed to mitigate the onset of infections and / or suppress the growth of pathogens or biofilms in wet, partially wet, or intermittently wet environments, including but not limited to basins, drains, endotracheal tubes and catheters. For such applications, the light engine may be remotely located and delivers the antimicrobial blue light via a fibre optic conduit into a transparent light-conducting object or device positioned at, or integrated within, the target environment. This configuration facilitates light delivery to fluids such as liquids and foams where direct free-space illumination is impractical and while keeping electrical components and heat sources away from wet or partially wet environments.

[0103] As used herein, antimicrobial blue light may refer to radiation within the visible spectrum having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 400 nm to about 470 nm. In some embodiments, this may be inclusive of sub-bands such as 405 to 420 nm, 420 to 450 nm and 450 to 470 nm. Antimicrobial blue light may refer to light in this range that exerts a germicidal or bacteriostatic effect by exciting endogenous photo-sensitising molecules within microorganisms, leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species that damage cellular structures. For the purposes of the present disclosure, antimicrobial blue light may be generated by one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or equivalent solid-state sources and may be delivered in continuous or pulsed modes at intensities sufficient to achieve disinfection or pathogen suppression at least within liquid or foam environments, and / or we, partially wet and / or intermittently wet surfaces.

[0104] The control module or controller of the light engine may regulate output to achieve a predefined dose of antimicrobial blue light.

[0105] In some embodiments, light may be generated by combining the output of multiple base elements in the light engine. In some embodiments, light may be generated by mixing from LEDs with disparate spectral distributions in the light collection apparatus. In some embodiments, light may be generated by mixing in free air using a shared lens or diffuser. In some embodiments, an array of seven light collecting elements each with a substantially hexagonal transverse cross-section may be employed to create a light collection apparatushaving a continuous free optical emission surface to energise a connected fibre optic conduit. In some embodiments, the continuous free optical emission surface has an approximate diameter of about 22 mm.

[0106] In some embodiments, the light engine may be in communication with an electronic control system. The electronic control system may be configured to vary the dosage duration and intensity of light generated by the light engine. For example, the characteristics of the generated light may be adjusted to suit particular requirements, such as use in an industrial inspection setting, or for explosive atmospheres. In some embodiments, the light-emitting elements are complemented by a range of power electronics, controls, and / or thermal management architecture. These components, along with electromagnetic, optical, and electrical safety measures, may be adapted from previous high-powered remote source lighting projects to meet operational and compliance requirements.

[0107] Figure 16A is a plan view of an arrangement of three light delivery sections of respective light collection apparatuses illuminating a light admission surface of a fibre optic light coupler, according to some embodiments. The three light delivery sections 310A, 31 OB & 310C are configured to couple to a fibre optic light coupler 160 to illuminate the light admission surface 170. Figure 16B shows an end view of a light admission surface of a fibre optic light coupler 160, according to some embodiments. The light admission surface is being illuminated by seven light delivery sections 310A, 310B, 310C, 310D, 310E, 310F, and 310G of respective light collection apparatuses.

[0108] In some embodiments, multiple light collection apparatuses 350 may be aggregated together into an array. For example, seven light collection apparatuses 350, each having seven light collecting elements, may be aggregated together, such that the seven light delivery sections 310 of each of the light collection apparatuses 350 are arranged onto a light coupler 160, resulting in the arrangement shown in Figure 16. If each light collecting element collects 90% of the light produced by an LED, and there are in total 49 light collecting elements, then the arrangement will deliver about 4410 lumen into the light coupler 160. 4410 lumen may be the practical energy limit that a light engine using a plurality of light collection apparatuses may produce.

[0109] Embodiments of the light collection apparatus disclosed herein may enable energy efficiency gains of at least 30% over existing systems. Embodiments of the light collectingapparatus may enables eight times more light to be delivered through the same size optical coupler and optic fibre conduit used in existing systems. This means that, for example, a 10 mm diameter fibre optic conduit 1200 can be replace with a 3 mm diameter conduit thereby enabling savings in materials and space, whilst also being more flexible and easier to manipulate.

[0110] The light collection apparatuses and light engines disclosed herein may aggregate light from multiple LEDs with high coupling efficiency to generate high intensity blue light. The blue light from multiple LEDs is aggregated by directing the combined light into fibre using close coupled tapered light collecting elements. These light collecting elements reduce angular and interface losses compared with free space combination and thereby enable aggregate antimicrobial blue light output in the order of about 5 to 50 W, thereby delivering antimicrobial blue light with higher intensity when compared with existing fibre optic light engines. This is particularly advantageous in liquid, foam or wet environments where effective intensity may otherwise be diminished.

[0111] In contrast to existing systems such as that shown in Figure 11, the arrangements illustrated in Figures 14 and 16 is simple and lightweight, thereby simplifying manufacture and assembly, as well as providing resilience to misalignment from shock and vibration.

[0112] Figure 17 is a diagram of a light delivery system, according to some embodiments. The light delivery system may be designed for the application of light, such as applying light to an explosive atmosphere, for example, when performing an industrial inspections, where it is dangerous to use electrical components to provide lighting.

[0113] In some embodiments, the system may comprise a light engine 1000, a fibre optic conduit 1200, and an object 1400. In the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the light delivery system is configured to provide lighting inside a vessel 3100. The vessel may contain an explosive gas or vapour 3000, such as hydrogen. The light engine 1000, is located at a safe distance from the vessel 3100 in a safe (non-explosive) atmosphere 3500. The light engine 1000 generates and concentrates high intensity light and delivers the light into a fibre optic conduit 1200. The fibre optic conduit 1200 extends between the light engine 1000 and a gastight aperture having a port 3200 disposed on the vessel 3100. The fibre optic conduit extends through port 3200, allowing the distal end of the fibre optic conduit 1200 to extend into the vessel 3100. The distal end of the fibre optic conduit 1200 connects to one or more objects1400 to distribute the received light inside vessel 3100. The light 3300 is therefore provided inside vessel 3100 without any electrical supply or heat being in proximity to the explosive gas 3000, thereby mitigating ignition risks. The object 1400, which may be a consumable item, conducts the light and emits it at designated zones. In some embodiments, the object 1400 may be formed from a clear material such as silicon, and may be of a size and geometry for a specific purpose, for example, to distribute light evenly within the vessel 3100.

[0114] The light engine 1000 may utilise UV, visible and / or infrared light in the range of 200 nm to 680 nm wavelengths in monochromatic or combination. The light engine 1000 may utilise blue visible light in the range of 400 nm to 470 nm wavelength In monochromatic or multispectral combination. The light engine 1000 may be configured to concentrate the generated light, for example, by using any of the light collection apparatuses described herein, such as 200 and / or 350. The system may transmit the concentrated light into object 1400, via the fibre optic conduit 1200. The object 1400, which may be a consumable item, may be configured to conduct the generated light and emit the generated light at specific zones.

[0115] The propagation and emission of light through the object 1400 may be achieved through the use of differential refractive indices and dispersive inclusions. This design may allow efficient light transmission and targeted emission without the need for metallic materials or surface etchings. In some embodiments, light emitting zones may comprise an embedded dispersion media layer embedded in a wall of the object 1400. In some embodiments, the embedded dispersion media layer may have a thickness of approximately 1 mm. The absence of metallic components and etchings in the object 1400 reduces potential interference and enhances the safety and efficacy of the light delivery system.

[0116] Figure 18 is a process flow diagram of a method 1900 of collecting light using any one of the described light collection apparatuses, according to some embodiments. The method includes, at 1910, collecting the light emitted by a light source using a lens, such as a miniature Fresnel lens, and focusing the light into a narrow beam. Then, at 1920, intercepting the light beam adjacent to the lens using a light collection apparatus. The beam is intercepted by one or more light intercepting faces disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body of the light collection apparatus. At 1930, the light propagates through the tapered body and, at 1940, the light is delivered from a distal end of a light delivery section of the light collection apparatus. In some embodiments, the light may be delivered from the light delivery sectioninto a fibre optic coupler. In some embodiments, the light may then be transmitted through a fibre optic conduit, connected to the fibre optic coupler, through to an object.

[0117] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of a second light engine architecture 2000, according to some embodiments. The light engine 2000 comprises an alternative architecture than that of light engine 900 of Figure 9A. In Figure 19, the light engine 2000 comprises an electronic control apparatus 2005, one or more light sources 2010, a fibre optic conduit 2020 having at least one optic fibre 2015, a coupler 2025, a distal connector 2030 and a light emitting apparatus 2040.

[0118] The electronic control apparatus 2005 is configured to control the one or more light sources 2010. In some embodiments, the light engine 2000 is configured to energise, operate, control and / or manage the output of one or more light sources 2010 via the electronic control apparatus 2005. For example, the electronic control apparatus 905 may control the one or more light sources 910 according to specific requirements or needs. In some embodiments, the electronic control apparatus may comprise a power supply unit (PSU) configured to deliver regulated electrical power to engine, and a control module configured to control the output of the light engine. The electronic control apparatus 2005 may control dosage duration, intensity, parameters of light delivery and thermoelectric parameters. In some embodiments, the electronic control apparatus 2005 may comprise a microcontroller, and may comprise one or more sensors. The light sources 2010 may comprise an LED. In some embodiments, the light sources 2010 may comprise an LED array. The LED array may comprise one or more high-output LEDs, each optically coupled directly to an individual optical fibre within a fibre-optic conduit. These fibres converge at an optical coupler, which organises and secures the fibre bundle for transmission. Unlike the free-space aggregation approach of the light engine architecture 900 of Figure 9A, light from each light source 2010 may be collected directly through at least one optic fibre 2015 of a fibre-optic conduit 2020. The optic fibre 2015 may be attached directly to the light emission surface of an individual light source of the one or more light sources 2010, for example, the light emission surface 110 of LED as shown in Figure 3. In some embodiments, the light from light sources 2010 is transmitted into the fibre optic conduit 2020 via the coupler 2025. In some embodiments, The fibre optic conduit 2020 terminates at a distal connector 2030 interfacing to a light receptacle or light emitting apparatus 2040. In some embodiments, the light engine may comprise a driver (not shown). Upon receiving command signals from the electronic control apparatus 2005, the driver delivers conditioned current to light sources 2010 selected to provide the desired spectraloutput. In some embodiments, the light engine further comprises a thermo-electro coupler integrated to monitor and manage heat dissipation at an LED interface.

[0119] One or more light sources 2010 may be aggregated into a suitably configured coupler 2025 that provisions the required thermal and electrical control connections to the light engine 2000. In some implementations, the coupler 2025 and the fibre optic conduit 2020 are assembled into a unitary apparatus, simplifying handling and reducing alignment complexity. This configuration eliminates intermediate optical elements such as lenses or reflectors, thereby reducing optical losses and enabling a more compact and lightweight engine design for the light engine architecture 2000.

[0120] The architecture of light engine 900 shown in Figure 9A is generally suited to applications where light engine dimensions are practically unconstrained, and where long LED life and energy efficiency are prioritised. By contrast, the architecture of the light engine 2000 shown in Figure 19 is intended for scenarios where light engine size and mass are highly constrained, and where LED lifetime and energy efficiency have lower priority. In such cases, light sources may be operated at higher electrical and thermal loads to deliver increased radiant output over a shorter operational window, consistent with the scheduled replacement of the architecture.

[0121] The light engine architecture 2000 may be technically advantageous for portable or space-limited applications, as it reduces the number of optical interfaces, simplifies assembly, and allows the light source-to-fibre interface to be factory-aligned and sealed within the coupler unit. The Light engine 2000 therefore mitigates misalignment and vibration while maintaining high coupling efficiency at each light source-fibre interface.

[0122] In some embodiments, the LED array may be integrated directly into the proximal end of the fibre-optic conduit, forming a unitary LED-fibre assembly. This assembly may be configured as a disposable element, to be disposed of and replaced one the LEDs in the LED array reach the end of their lifecycle. Integration reduces intermediate optical interfaces, thereby minimising Fresnel losses and alignment errors, and simplifying the light engine by eliminating separate optical collectors.

[0123] In some embodiments, the light engine may be controlled to operate with high-intensity and short-duration, wherein LEDs are driven to electrical and thermal limits tomaximise radiant output. This operation is suitable for applications where scheduled replacement of the integrated LED-fibre assembly is practical and cost-effective. Accordingly, by reducing optical system losses through direct coupling and optimised geometry, the number of LEDs required to achieve a target antimicrobial irradiance can be reduced. This reduction in LED count enables a smaller, lighter, and less expensive light engine, while maintaining or improving delivered dose efficiency. Additionally, although the disposable LED-fibre assembly may be more expensive than a passive fibre alone, the overall system cost impact is mitigated by the substantial reduction in LED count and the simplification of the reusable light engine.

[0124] In some embodiments, there is provided a light engine comprising an electronic control apparatus, one or more light sources including at least one LED, a fibre-optic conduit comprising at least one optical fibre, and a coupler. Light from each light source is collected directly into the optical fibre of the fibre-optic conduit, and the coupler optically couples the optical fibre to the light sources. In some embodiments, an end face of the optical fibre is attached directly to a light-emission surface of a corresponding light source. The coupler may provide thermal management or electrical connections for the light sources, and the coupler and fibre-optic conduit may be assembled as a unitary apparatus. The optical path between each light source and its corresponding optical fibre may be free of intermediate lenses, refractors, or reflectors. The electronic control apparatus may energise, operate, control, and / or manage the output of the light sources according to specified requirements. The coupler may include alignment features configured to factory-align and seal each light source-to-fibre interface. The fibre-optic conduit may terminate at a distal connector configured to interface with a light receptacle or light-emitting apparatus. In some embodiments, the light sources are operable at elevated electrical and thermal loads to increase radiant output over a specified operational window. The fibre-optic conduit may include multiple optical fibres, with each light source optically coupled to a respective fibre. A light delivery system may include the light engine and a distal light-emitting apparatus configured to receive light from the fibre-optic conduit. A method for controlling delivery of light using any one of the light engines described herein includes energising one or more light sources by way of an electronic control apparatus, directly coupling light from each energised LED into a corresponding optical fibre of the conduit using a coupler, and transmitting the coupled light through the conduit for delivery to a light-emitting apparatus.

[0125] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and / or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A light collection apparatus comprising: at least one light collecting element having a tapered body configured to propagate light from its proximal end to its distal end; at least one light intercepting face disposed at the proximal end of the tapered body; and a light delivery section projecting from the distal end of the tapered body; wherein the at least one light intercepting face is coupled to a light source such that light radiating from the light source is intercepted by the at least one light intercepting face, propagates through the tapered body and is delivered from a distal end of the light delivery section of the light collection apparatus; wherein the light source is configured to radiate antimicrobial blue light.

2. The light collection apparatus of claim 1, wherein the antimicrobial blue light comprises one or more wavelengths in the range of 400 nm to 470 nm.

3. The light collection apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the tapered body is elongate and conically shaped.

4. The light collection apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the tapered body is elongate and multifaceted along its length.

5. The light collection apparatus of claim 4, wherein the tapered body comprises a hexagonal transverse cross-section.

6. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light delivery section is elongate, and multifaceted along its length.

7. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light delivery section is hexagonal in cross section.

8. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light delivery section is substantially uniform in cross section.

9. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light delivery section is configured to connect to a fibre optic coupler.

10. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus comprises: a plurality of light collecting elements, each light collecting element of the plurality of light collecting elements having at least one light intercepting face disposed at a proximal end of the tapered body, wherein a distal end of the light collecting elements merge into a shared light collecting zone that transitions into the light delivery section such that the light collected by the plurality of light collecting elements is emitted from a distal end of the light delivery section.

11. The light collection apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plurality of light collecting elements are arranged radially.

12. The light collection apparatus of claim 11, wherein the plurality of light collecting elements are arranged radially in a single plane.

13. The light collection apparatus of claim 11, wherein the plurality of light collecting elements are arranged radially in multiple planes.

14. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one light intercepting face is configured to be coupled to a respective lens such that light radiating from the respective light source of the at least one light intercepting face passes through the respective lens before being intercepted by the at least one light intercepting face of the light collection apparatus.

15. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one light intercepting face comprises an integral lens.

16. The light collection apparatus of claim 15, wherein the integral lens is a Fresnel lens.

17. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tapered body is fabricated from a substantially clear material.

18. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light delivery section is fabricated from a substantially clear material.

19. The light collection apparatus of claims 17 or claim 18, wherein the clear material includes borosilicate glass, soda lime glass, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyamide and / or silicone.

20. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a light source coupled to the light collection apparatus.

21. The light collection apparatus of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source is a light emitting diode.

22. A light engine comprising the light collection apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. The light engine of claim 22, further comprising a control system configured to control a dosage duration and / or intensity of light generated by the light source.

24. A method of collecting light, comprising: using the light collection apparatus of any of claims 1 to 21, comprising: collecting light emitted by a light source using a lens and focusing the light into a narrow beam; intercepting the light beam adjacent to the lens using the light collection apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 21; propagating the light through the tapered body of the light collection apparatus; and delivering the light from a distal end of the light delivery section of the light collection apparatus.

25. A light collection array, comprising a plurality of light collection apparatuses of any one of claims 1 to 21.

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