An illumination assembly for generating a sparkling optical effect and a method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure envisages an illumination assembly (100) comprising at least one light-emitting source (10) having one or more light-emitting diodes mounted on a circuit board. An inner lens (20) optically coupled to the light-emitting source (10) to receive light. The inner lens (20) comprises a first optical surface (20a) comprising a facet structure (24), and a second optical surface (20b) positioned opposite to the first optical surface (20a) and formed as a substantially flat surface. The facet structure (24) of the first optical surface (20a) is configured to refract and internally reflect the fed light within the inner lens (20) in cooperation with the second optical surface (20b), thereby generating, when illuminated, a field of caustic highlights externally visible as a sparkling optical effect.

Description

[0001] AN ILLUMINATION ASSEMBLY FOR GENERATING A SPARKLING OPTICAL EFFECT AND A METHOD THEREOF

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an illumination assembly, and more specifically relates to an illumination assembly for generating a sparkling optical effect and a method thereof.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] Light-based optical systems are widely used in a variety of applications to enhance the visual appearance of light output, particularly in decorative and aesthetic lighting, architectural spaces, stage effects, and automotive lighting. In the automotive industry, the integration of advanced lighting systems has become increasingly important not only for functional illumination but also for improving user experience and creating distinctive visual signatures. Optical systems capable of producing a sparkling or crystalline effect are especially desirable because they mimic the brilliance of diamonds, thereby elevating the perceived quality of the lighting assembly.

[0007] Conventional lighting systems typically use diffusers, fresnel structures, reflectors, to shape light. While these approaches provide adequate light distribution or uniform glow, they fail to generate the intricate dispersion and multi-angular scattering needed to create the vivid sparkle of a crystalline surface. In many cases, the light output is either overly diffuse, resulting in a flat and unremarkable appearance, or overly focused, producing a harsh beam without the dynamic sparkle effect.

[0008] In vehicle lighting systems, reflector-based or light guide-based headlamps have traditionally been employed to achieve functional homogeneity in position functions. However, optical systems intended for generating aesthetic lighting sequences during vehicle unlocking or locking have been characterized by their bulkiness, high cost, and reliance on intricate mechanisms or thick ornamental lenses to approximate crystalline visual effects. These solutions are not only difficult to manufacture and integrate but also fail to reproduce the natural jewel-like brilliance. Therefore, there exists a need for an illumination assembly for generating a sparkling optical output and a method thereof that overcomes the drawbacks associated with conventional approaches.

[0009] OBJECTS

[0010] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly that generates a sparkling optical effect resembling the brilliance of crystals or diamonds.

[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly that mimics the optical properties of a faceted gemstone.

[0013] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly that ensures seamless integration of the assembly with existing lighting systems, allowing for easy installation and compatibility.

[0014] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly that enhance the visibility and aesthetic of lighting.

[0015] Y et another object of the present disclosure is to provide integration in vehicle lighting systems, particularly for approach, welcome, and goodbye lighting sequences, where traditional reflector-based or light guide systems are bulky and fail to reproduce natural jewel-like brilliance according to personal preferences.

[0016] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly that generates multi-angular light scattering illumination with dynamic sparkling effect without relying on thick, curved, or multi -part optical assemblies.

[0017] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly that ensures that the desired visual effects are generated reliably.

[0018] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an illumination assembly capable of inducing multiple interactions of refraction and internal reflection within the same lens body. Yet another object of the present disclosure is to incorporate electronic control that allow the jewel-like optical effects to be dynamically varied in response to user inputs, external triggers, or pre-programmed sequences.

[0019] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for generating a sparkling diamond-like crystalline output.

[0020] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0021] SUMMARY

[0022] The present disclosure envisages an illumination assembly. The assembly comprises an inner lens configured to receive light. The inner lens comprises a first optical surface comprising facet structure, and a second optical surface positioned opposite to the first optical surface and formed as a substantially flat surface, configured to receive and pass the light towards the first optical surface. The facet structure of the first optical surface is configured to refract, and internally reflect the light thereby generating, caustic highlights externally visible as a sparkling optical effect.

[0023] In an embodiment, the facet structure includes a plurality of prismatic facets distributed on the first optical surface. Each facet has an irregular orientation and depth relative to the inner lens, and is configured to induce a combination of refraction, dispersion, and internal reflection of the light to generate the caustic highlights.

[0024] In another embodiment, the first optical surface is configured to refract a portion of the light and to reflect another portion by inducing total internal reflection (TIR), such that the light undergoes one or more interactions of refraction and reflection at the first optical surface to generate the caustic highlights.

[0025] In yet another embodiment, the second optical surface is configured to reflect back at least a portion of the light internally reflected by the first optical surface back towards the first optical surface to facilitate multiple interactions of refraction and reflection at the first optical surface.

[0026] In still another embodiment, the illumination assembly includes an outer lens configured to enclose the inner lens, wherein the outer lens includes an inner surface and outer surface formed as a combination of concave, convex, and flat surface.. In yet another embodiment, the illumination assembly includes a control module, configured to actuate at least one light emitting source. The control module is configured to receive input signals from an input unit and to generate actuation signals for dynamically actuating the at least one light emitting source.

[0027] In still another embodiment, the illumination assembly includes an animation module in communication with the control module. The animation module is configured to store one or more animation sequences containing illumination patterns with varying intensities of the light emitting source, wherein the control module accesses the animation sequences in response to the input signals to produce actuation signals for dynamically actuating the at least one light emitting source to generate the sparkling optical effect.

[0028] The present disclosure further envisages a method of generating a sparkling optical effect in an illumination assembly. The method comprises the steps of:

[0029] • receiving light from at least one light-emitting source at a second optical surface (20b) of an inner lens;

[0030] • guiding the received light through the inner lens toward a first optical surface;

[0031] • refracting a portion of the light through a facet structure formed on the first optical surface for at least partially dispersing the refracted light into multiple angular directions;

[0032] • reflecting another portion of the light by inducing total internal reflection (TIR) at the facet structure;

[0033] • reflecting at least a portion of the TIR-reflected light from the substantially flat second optical surface of the inner lens back toward the first optical surface, thereby enabling multiple successive interactions of refraction and reflection within the inner lens; and

[0034] • generating, by the multiple interactions of refraction, dispersion, and internal reflection between the first optical surface and the second optical surface, a field of caustic highlights externally visible as a sparkling optical effect.

[0035] In an embodiment, the method further includes the step of: controlling the at least one lightemitting source through a control module, the control module is receiving input signals from an input unit and generating actuation signals for actuating said light emitting source (10) to create dynamic illumination patterns.

[0036] In another embodiment, the method further includes the step of: storing one or more animation sequences in an animation module, the animation sequences containing illumination patterns with varying intensities, and accessing the animation sequences by the control module for generating dynamic jewel-like optical animations.

[0037] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

[0038] An illumination assembly of the present disclosure for generating sparkling optical effect and a method thereof, will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 illustrates a cross sectional view of the illumination assembly in accordance with a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the illumination assembly of figure 1;

[0041] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the illumination assembly of figure 1;

[0042] Figure 4 illustrates a cross sectional view of the illumination of figure 1;

[0043] Figure 5 illustrates an isometric view of the illumination assembly in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of the illumination assembly of figure 5;

[0045] Figure 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of the illumination assembly of figure 5;

[0046] Figure 8 illustrates a block diagram of the illumination assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0047] Figure 9A-9B illustrates the method steps of generating a sparkling optical effect in an illumination assembly of the present disclosure.

[0048] LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0049] 100 illumination assembly

[0050] 10 light-emitting source 12 control module

[0051] 14 animation module

[0052] 16 input unit

[0053] 20 inner lens

[0054] 20a first optical surface

[0055] 20b second optical surface

[0056] 22 outer lens

[0057] 24 facet structure

[0058] 200 method of generating a sparkling optical effect

[0059] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] The present disclosure relates to an illumination assembly, and more specifically relates to an illumination assembly for generating a sparkling optical effect and a method thereof.

[0061] Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing.

[0062] Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details, are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0063] The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms “a”, “an”, and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “including”, and “having”, are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, modules, units and / or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The particular order of steps disclosed in the method and process of the present disclosure is not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance as described or illustrated. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0064] When an element is referred to as being “mounted on”, “engaged to”, “connected to”, or “coupled to” another element, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements.

[0065] The terms first, second, third, etc., should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure as the aforementioned terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another component, region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, third etc., when used herein do not imply a specific sequence or order unless clearly suggested by the present disclosure.

[0066] Terms such as “inner”, “outer”, “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper”, and the like, may be used in the present disclosure to describe relationships between different elements as depicted from the figures.

[0067] The present disclosure envisages an illumination assembly (100).

[0068] The illumination assembly (100) will now be described in detail with reference to Figure 1 through Figure 9.

[0069] The illumination assembly (100) comprises at least one light-emitting source (10). The lightemitting source (10) comprises one or more light-emitting diodes mounted on a circuit board (not shown). The circuit board provides a mounting surface for the light-emitting diodes and ensures electrical connectivity for the light-emitting source (10).

[0070] The illumination assembly (100) further comprises an inner lens (20) that is optically coupled to the light-emitting source (10). The inner lens (20) is configured to receive light that is fed from the light-emitting source (10) into the body of the lens. By feeding light into the inner lens (20) through its second optical surface (20b), the emitted light from the light-emitting source (10) is guided into the optical material in a controlled manner. The inner lens (20) comprises a first optical surface (20a). The first optical surface (20a) is provided with a facet structure (24). The facet structure (24) is characterized by a collection of prismatic features that vary in orientation, size, and depth, and do not follow any repeating or symmetrical arrangement. This irregularity in the facet structure (24) ensures that incoming light is refracted and internally reflected in multiple directions, producing a complex distribution of light paths exiting the inner lens (20). The arrangement of the facets (24) allows the first optical surface (20a) to break uniform light into distinct directions, which is advantageous for producing a visually rich optical effect.

[0071] In an embodiment, the facet structure (24) is a freeform, non-periodic micro-prismatic structure.

[0072] The second optical surface (20b) positioned opposite to the first optical surface (20a) of the inner lens (20) is formed as a substantially flat surface, providing a smooth boundary condition for light propagating within the inner lens (20). The flat geometry of the second optical surface (20b) helps to maintain predictable internal interactions of light within the inner lens (20), thereby complementing the dispersive effect of the first optical surface (20a). Together, the first optical surface (20a) with its facet structure (24) and the second optical surface (20b) define the optical body of the inner lens (20) and govern how light from the light-emitting source (10) is manipulated.

[0073] The facet structure (24) of the first optical surface (20a) is configured to interact with the light that is fed into the inner lens (20). When the light enters the body of the inner lens (20), the facet structure (24) refracts a portion of the light into different directions. At the same time, the irregular orientations of the facets (24) disperse the light so that the emerging rays take on varied paths rather than a uniform distribution. This effect ensures that the light exiting the inner lens (20) does not follow a single predictable trajectory but instead creates a multiplicity of light paths.

[0074] In addition to refraction and dispersion, the facet structure (24) also induces internal reflection of the light within the inner lens (20). The orientations of the facets (24) provide multiple angles where light can meet the boundary at conditions favourable for internal reflection. These reflections extend the path of the light within the inner lens (20), increasing the number of interactions between the light and the facets (24). The second optical surface (20b), being substantially flat, and positioned opposite the first optical surface (20a), cooperates in the interactions between light and the facet (24) by providing a complementary boundary against which the internally reflected light can be re-reflected. In this manner, the inner lens (20) itself is capable of inducing multiple interactions of refraction and internal reflection within a single lens body, without requiring additional optical elements.

[0075] Through the combined effects of refraction, dispersion, and total internal reflection (TIR) within the inner lens (20), the facet structure (24) generates a dense overlay of light paths that emerge as caustic highlights. The caustic highlights resemble the optical effect of cut crystals or diamonds. In these natural materials like crystals or diamonds, facets cut at varying angles causing the light to split into multiple rays of different brightness and direction, creating the familiar sparkling optical effect. By replicating this effect in a controlled optical element, the illumination assembly (100) generates a comparable brilliance. The caustic highlights are closely spaced, and when observed externally, they appear as a sparkling optical effect like diamond.

[0076] The cooperation of the inner lens (20) i.e. the facet structure (24), and the second optical surface (20b) ensure that the crystalline or diamond-like optical effect is generated reliably each time the light-emitting source (10) is actuated. Since the geometry of the facets (24) and the boundary conditions for refraction and total internal reflection remain fixed for the illumination assembly (100), the resulting caustic highlights appear with consistency, thereby providing dependable visual performance across repeated lighting cycles.

[0077] In an embodiment, the facet structure (24) of the first optical surface (20a) includes a plurality of prismatic facets defined at a microscopic scale. Each of the facets (24) is formed with an irregular orientation and a relief depth that varies relative to the body of the inner lens (20). The facets (24) are arranged in an aperiodic distribution that avoids both rotational and mirror symmetry. By avoiding any repetitive order, the facet structure (24) ensures that the incoming light fed into the inner lens (20) undergoes refraction and dispersion in a manner that is not repetitive or predictable. The irregular arrangement of facets (24) also promotes internal reflections at different angles, thereby extending the number of light paths within the inner lens (20). The combination of refraction, dispersion, and internal reflection generates a dense and complex overlay of light rays, which results in the formation of spatially rich caustic highlights. These highlights, when observed externally, provide the sparkling optical effect like diamond with enhanced visual depth compared to conventional periodic prism structures. In an embodiment, the inner lens (20) achieves multi-angular scattering of light and a dynamic sparkling effect through its facet structure (24). The facet structure (24) eliminates the need for thick, curved, or multi-part optical assemblies that are typically used in conventional lighting to simulate similar effects. As a result, the illumination assembly (100) provides a simplified yet highly effective optical result that reduces material usage and assembly complexity while still delivering a vibrant crystalline brilliance.

[0078] The micro-prismatic facets (24) are configured to perform both refraction and reflection of the light entering the lens. A portion of the light incident on the facets (24) is refracted and exits the inner lens (20) in a refracted path, while another portion is reflected back into the body of the inner lens (20) by the phenomenon of total internal reflection (TIR). By inducing TIR, the first optical surface (20a) allows the reflected light to remain confined within the inner lens (20), where it undergoes additional interactions with second optical surface (20b) of the inner lens (20). The second optical surface (20b) is shaped as a flat boundary that reflects a portion of the dispersed light rays back towards the facet structure (24) of the first optical surface (20a). This repeated passage of light between the facets (24) and second optical surface (20b) increases the number of times the rays are bent and redirected, so the light eventually leaving the inner lens (20) contains more variations in angle and brightness. These multiple interactions of refraction and reflection diversify the propagation angles of the light rays, resulting in dispersed light rays in a greater density. The combination of refraction and TIR creates a dynamic distribution of light paths, which is advantageous in generating the visually striking sparkling optical effect observed externally from the illumination assembly (100).

[0079] In an embodiment, instead of one inner lens (20), more than one inner lense (20) can be placed parallel to each other in which one is kept fixed while the other can be rotated or displaced to obtain a more intricate optical effect.

[0080] Further, the illumination assembly (100) further includes an outer lens (22) that encloses the inner lens (20), wherein the geometry of the optical surfaces of the outer lens is selected to modify or enhance the distribution of light emerging from the inner lens (20), which generates the sparkling optical effect like diamond.

[0081] In first embodiment, the outer lens (22) has an inner convex surface and a substantially flat outer surface. When the dispersed rays carrying the caustic highlights emerge from the inner lens (20), they are refracted by the inner converging surface and converged slightly before they exit through the substantially flat outer surface. The substantially plane outer surface further refracts the light rays exiting the outer lens (22) to shape the light rays in a light beam. This converging path magnifies the optical features generated inside the inner lens (20), making the caustic highlights appear larger and more distinct to an external observer. The resulting jewellike effect is therefore enhanced in visibility and visual appeal.

[0082] In second embodiment, the outer lens has both inner and outer surfaces formed as convex surfaces, as shown in figures 1-4. The double-convex configuration acts as a compound magnifier, providing a stronger focusing and enlarging effect on the caustic highlights generated by the inner lens (20). This arrangement generates a high-intensity sparkle and a broader projection pattern, suitable for decorative or long-range projection applications, such as facade or signature lighting.

[0083] In third embodiment, the outer lens has an inner concave surface and an outer convex surface. This optical configuration generates a balancing effect, the inner concave surface diverges the incoming dispersed rays from the inner lens (20), while the outer convex surface reconverges and redistributes them, as shown in figures 5-7. The resulting output is a softly magnified and spatially expanded crystalline pattern, offering a smoother luminous gradient with controlled sparkle density.

[0084] In fourth embodiment, the outer lens has the inner concave surface and a substantially flat outer surface. The inner concave surface serves to slightly diverge or spread the caustic highlights generated by the inner lens (20), thereby widening the effective viewing angle of the sparkling effect. The flat outer surface preserves the geometric integrity of the external enclosure and provides mechanical protection without distorting the optical output.

[0085] In fifth embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) includes an outer lens (22) that encloses the inner lens (20), where both the inner and outer surfaces of the outer lens (22) are formed as substantially flat surfaces. The flat surfaces of the outer lens still cause refraction of light incident on it at an angle and transmitting the caustic highlights generated by the inner lens (20) without significant convergence or divergence.

[0086] In additional embodiments, the illumination assembly (100) includes an outer lens (22) that encloses the inner lens (20), where the inner and outer surfaces of the outer lens (22) are formed as combination of concave, convex, and flat surface, as per the requirement for optical beam forming, without limiting the scope of invention. Furthermore, the outer lens (22) acts mainly as a protective cover while allowing the caustic highlights generated by the inner lens (20) to pass through without distortion. By transmitting the highlights in this manner, the outer lens (22) preserves the uniformity of the sparkling optical effect like diamond. By generating caustic highlights that are both sharp and spatially dense, the illumination assembly (100) enhances the visibility of the light output compared to conventional diffused sources. At the same time, the jewel-like optical effect improves the overall aesthetics of the lighting.

[0087] In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the light incident on the first optical surface (20a) of the inner lens (20) undergoes total internal reflection when its angle of incidence exceeds a predefined angle of about 37°. At this angle, the geometry of the facet structure (24) and the refractive index of the inner lens (20) cause the light to be reflected back into the lens rather than escaping. The inner lens (20) is formed of a material having a refractive index in the range of 1.4 to 1.6, which ensures that the condition for total internal reflection occurs at this angle. The outer lens (22) is positioned in tandem with the inner lens (20) at a distance in the range of 15 mm to 18 mm . This spacing ensures that the light dispersed from the inner lens (20) enters the outer lens (22) without significant loss or distortion, while still allowing the outer lens (22) to influence the emerging rays in a controlled way. The outer lens (22) is made of a material having a refractive index in the range of 1.4 to 1.6.

[0088] In an embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) is integrated into a vehicle lamp assembly for approach or departure lighting sequences.

[0089] In another embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) further provides compact integration in vehicle lighting systems, particularly for approach, welcome, and goodbye lighting sequences. Unlike conventional reflector-based or light guide arrangements, which require bulky housings to manage light distribution, the present illumination assembly (100) achieves the desired optical effect within the compact geometry of the inner lens (20) and outer lens (22). This reduction in size enables easier packaging within constrained vehicle lamp spaces while still reproducing the jewel-like brilliance that conventional systems fail to achieve.

[0090] In yet another embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) is integrated into an architectural lighting fixture. The assembly (100) may be incorporated into wall sconces, ceiling luminaires, or decorative pendants to provide a distinctive sparkling effect within residential or commercial interiors. In other applications, the illumination assembly (100) may be fitted into entertainment or hospitality lighting installations, such as stage lighting, club illumination, or decorative ambience lighting systems.

[0091] In still another embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) is further configured to integrate seamlessly with existing lighting systems. The use of standard circuit board mounting for the light-emitting source (10) and conventional lens housing formats allows the assembly (100) to be installed within vehicle lamps, architectural luminaires, or decorative fixtures without requiring substantial redesign. This compatibility ensures that the assembly (100) can be incorporated into existing lighting architectures with minimal modification, thereby simplifying installation and broadening its applicability.

[0092] In still another embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) is configured to be fitted within decorative interior room lighting, vehicle headlamp, vehicle daytime running lamp (DRL), vehicle tail lamp, a pilot lamp or a fog lamp, a cornering lamp, booster lamp, architectural lighting, stage and theatrical lighting, aircraft lighting, smart home lighting systems or any combination thereof

[0093] In an embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) includes a control module (12) which is in communication with the light-emitting source (10). The control module (12) receives input signals from an input unit (16), such as a switch or a vehicle key interface, and responds by generating actuation signals for the light-emitting source (10). Through these actuation signals, the control module (12) determines when and how the light-emitting source (10) is operated. This arrangement allows the illumination assembly (100) to provide dynamic lighting control rather than simple on-off operation, enabling the light output to follow different activation patterns depending on the received input.

[0094] In another embodiment, the illumination assembly (100) includes an animation module (14) that communicates with the control module (12). The animation module (14) is configured to store one or more animation sequences, each sequence defining illumination patterns for the light-emitting source (10) with varying light intensities. When the control module (12) receives an input signal from the input unit (16), it accesses the relevant animation sequence from the animation module (14). The control module (12) then generates actuation signals based on the selected sequence, so that the light-emitting source (10) produces time-varying illumination patterns. By varying the intensity of the light-emitting source (10) according to the stored sequences, the illumination assembly (100) is able to project the sparkling optical effect like diamond in a dynamic and animated form, making the optical appearance more engaging and visually expressive.

[0095] In another embodiment, the animation module (14) is a storage with pre-programmed with animation sequences that respond to specific environmental conditions. For example, the control module (12), upon receiving an input signal generated on detecting specific environmental conditions (such as a low light environment, rain, snow, etc.) is configured to identify a corresponding pre-programed illumination pattern from the animation module (14), and actuate the light-emitting source (10) in accordance to the identified illumination pattern to thereby generate the desired effect to enhance the crystalline sparkling output. This ensures optimal visibility and enhances the effectiveness of the animation sequences.

[0096] Further, in reference to Figure 9A-9B, the present disclosure envisages a method (200) of generating a sparkling optical effect in an illumination assembly (100). The method (200) comprises the following steps:

[0097] • Step 202: receiving light from at least light emitting source (10) at a second optical surface (20b) of an inner lens (20);

[0098] • Step 204: guiding said received light through the inner lens (20) toward a first optical surface (20a);

[0099] • Step 206: refracting a portion of the light through a facet structure (24) formed on the first optical surface (20a), for at least partially dispersing the refracted light into multiple angular directions;

[0100] • Step 208: reflecting another portion of said light by inducing total internal reflection (TIR) at the facet structure (24);

[0101] • Step 210: reflecting at least a portion of the TIR-reflected light from the substantially flat second optical surface (20b) of the inner lens (20) back toward the first optical surface (20a), thereby enabling multiple successive interactions of refraction and reflection within the inner lens (20); and

[0102] • Step 212: generating, by the multiple interactions of refraction, dispersion, and internal reflection between the first optical surface (20a) and the second optical surface (20b), a field of caustic highlights externally visible as a sparkling optical effect. In still another embodiment, the method (200) further includes the step of controlling the at least one light emitting source (10) through a control module (12). The control module (12) receives input signals from an input unit (16) and, based on those signals, generates actuation signals for actuating said light emitting source (10) to create dynamic illumination patterns.

[0103] In yet another embodiment, the method (200) further includes the step of storing one or more animation sequences in an animation module (14). These animation sequences contain illumination patterns with varying intensities of the light-emitting source (10). The control module (12) accesses the stored sequences in response to the input signals from the input unit (16) and generates corresponding actuation signals. As a result, the light-emitting source (10) generates dynamic sparkling optical animations, where the crystalline optical effect appears to change in brightness and rhythm over time, giving the illumination assembly (100) a visually engaging and animated appearance.

[0104] In another embodiment, the method (200) further includes the step of enclosing the inner lens (20) within an outer lens (22). The outer lens (22) is formed with an inner and outer optical surface formed as a combination of concave, convex, and flat surface.

[0105] Furthermore, the present disclosure also discloses the method of manufacturing an optical element which is configured to generate a sparkling optical effect like diamond. The method begins with the modelling of a facet structure (24) on a digital model using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Once the digital model is finalized, a blank of optical material is selected and machined to generate the optical element. In this step, a multi-axis CNC machine equipped with diamond-tipped tools is employed to rough-shape the optical blank in accordance with the designed facet structure. This stage removes most of the excess material and establishes the basic geometry of the optical element.

[0106] After the rough machining, the process proceeds to a fine grinding stage in which the roughshaped optical element is subjected to precision grinding operations. The next stage involves polishing the optical element using sub-aperture polishing techniques. Since the facet structure (24) lacks rotational symmetry, conventional large-aperture polishing tools are unsuitable. Instead, smaller sub-aperture polishing tools are employed, which allow localized and controlled material removal. This precision-controlled polishing ensures that the micro-facets achieve the smoothness and angular accuracy required for proper refraction and internal reflection of light. Following the polishing operation, the method further includes iteratively measuring and correcting the optical surface. Optical or tactile metrology systems are employed to measure the actual surface topology and compare it against the digital model. Based on this analysis, the process generates an error map that identifies deviations between the fabricated and intended profiles. The polishing process is then repeated with corrective adjustments applied to localized regions, thereby reducing surface errors to within a fraction of a micrometer. This iterative correction cycle continues until the optical element attains the desired surface fidelity necessary to generates caustic highlights that are externally visible as a sparkling optical effect. It would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that this manufacturing process has been provided as a reference only and is not a limitation.

[0107] In an embodiment, the optical material used for manufacturing the optical element is selected from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), or glass, depending on the intended application and environmental durability requirements.

[0108] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment but are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0109] TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS

[0110] The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of an illumination assembly for generating sparkling optical effect and a method thereof, that:

[0111] • generates a sparkling optical effect resembling the brilliance of cut crystal or diamonds;

[0112] • mimics the optical properties of a faceted gemstone;

[0113] • ensures seamless integration of the assembly with existing lighting systems, allowing for easy installation and compatibility;

[0114] • enhances the visibility and aesthetic of lighting; • ensures that the desired visual effects are generated reliably every time without any inconsistency; and

[0115] • is capable of inducing multiple interactions of refraction and internal reflection within the same lens body.

[0116] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0117] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

[0118] The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

[0119] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.

[0120] The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher / lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.

[0121] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An illumination assembly (100), comprising:• an inner lens (20) configured to receive light, comprising: o a first optical surface (20a) comprising facet structure (24); and o a second optical surface (20b) positioned opposite to said first optical surface (20a) and formed as a substantially flat surface, configured to receive and pass said light towards said first optical surface (20a), wherein said facet structure (24) of said first optical surface (20a) is configured to refract and internally reflect said light, thereby generating, caustic highlights externally visible as a sparkling optical effect.

2. The illumination assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said facet structure (24) includes a plurality of prismatic facets distributed on said first optical surface (20a), each facet having an irregular orientation and depth relative to said inner lens (20), and configured to induce a combination of refraction, dispersion, and internal reflection of said light to generate said caustic highlights.

3. The illumination assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein said first optical surface (20a) is configured to refract a portion of said light and to reflect another portion by inducing total internal reflection (TIR), such that said light undergoes one or more interactions of refraction and reflection at said first optical surface (20a) to generate said caustic highlights.

4. The illumination assembly (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said second optical surface (20b) is configured to reflect back at least a portion of said light internally reflected by said first optical surface (20a) back towards said first optical surface (20a) to facilitate multiple interactions of refraction and reflection at said first optical surface (20a).

5. The illumination assembly ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said illumination assembly (100) includes an outer lens (22) configured to enclose said inner lens (20), wherein said outer lens (22) includes an inner surface and outer surface formed as a combination of concave, convex, and flat surface.

6. The illumination assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said illumination assembly (100) includes a control module (12) configured to actuate at least one light emitting source (10), said control module (12) configured to receive input signals from an input unit (16) or, and to generate actuation signals for dynamically actuating said at least one light emitting source (10).

7. The illumination assembly (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein said illumination assembly (100) includes an animation module (14) in communication with said control module (12), said animation module (14) configured to store one or more animation sequences containing illumination patterns with varying intensities of said light emitting source (10), wherein said control module (12) accesses said animation sequences in response to said input signals to produce actuation signals for dynamically actuating said at least one light emitting source (10) to generate said sparkling optical effect.

8. A method (200) of generating a sparkling optical effect in an illumination assembly (100), said method comprising the steps of:• receiving light from at least one light emitting source ( 10) at a second optical surface (20b) of an inner lens (20);• guiding said received light through said inner lens (20) toward a first optical surface (20a);• refracting a portion of said light through a facet structure (24) formed on said first optical surface (20a), for at least partially dispersing the refracted light into multiple angular directions;• reflecting another portion of said light by inducing total internal reflection (TIR) at said facet structure (24);• reflecting at least a portion of the TIR-reflected light from a substantially flat second optical surface (20b) of said inner lens (20) back toward said first optical surface (20a), thereby enabling multiple successive interactions of refraction and reflection within said inner lens (20); andgenerating, by said multiple interactions of refraction, dispersion, and internal reflection between said first optical surface (20a) and said second optical surface (20b), a field of caustic highlights externally visible as a sparkling optical effect.

9. The method (200) as claimed in claim 8, further includes the step of: controlling said at least one light emitting source (10) through a control module (12), said control module (12) receiving input signals from an input unit (16) and generating actuation signals for actuating said light emitting source (10) to create dynamic illumination patterns.

10. The method (200) as claimed in claim 9, further includes the step of: storing one or more animation sequences in an animation module (14), said animation sequences containing illumination patterns with varying intensities, and accessing said animation sequences by said control module (12) for generating dynamic jewel-like optical animations.

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