Optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source

Abstract

Described is an optical system (1) for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by a source (S). The optical system (1) comprises, on a supporting structure (30), a primary optic (10) configured to concentrate the light beam of the source (S) in at least one focal point (F1, F2), generating a virtual image of the source (S) itself. The primary optic (10) has a reflective or refractive surface (11) with a curvature (C) having an elliptical portion suitable for creating the aforementioned focal point (F1, F2). The optical system (1) further comprises a secondary optic (20) configured to receive the light (L) concentrated in the virtual image and modulate the light beam according to a predefined profile (21), adaptable according to the application needs.

Description

[0001] Optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an led source

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present invention relates to an optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source (Lighting Emitting Diode).

[0005] Background art

[0006] In the panorama of optical solutions for the management and modulation of light emitted by LED sources, the currently available technologies have several limitations that reduce their efficiency, flexibility and visual comfort. Many optical systems, in fact, cannot completely hide the LED source, causing glare effects and altering the aesthetics of the product, both in light on and off conditions.

[0007] Moreover, the existing solutions often do not allow the light beam to be precisely modulated, limiting the customisation capacity for specific applications.

[0008] In the integrated optical systems, the replacement of components such as the LED source or the optics requires the disassembly of the entire product, making the maintenance operations complex and expensive.

[0009] Many current systems, moreover, do not offer an adequate possibility of customisation or replacement of the optical components in order to adapt the light beam or the colour temperature of the light.

[0010] Finally, the presence of surfaces which are not optimised for the reflection or refraction leads to losses in luminous efficacy and a non-optimal use of the energy emitted by the LED source.

[0011] An example of the current state of the art is provided by patent document JP 2020 / 095923 A which describes an optical system that is based on an integrated structure for the management of light emitted by a light source, mainly oriented to light efficiency and uniform distribution but it presents some critical issues from the point of view of versatility, ease of maintenanceand, above all, it does not completely overcome the technical problems already mentioned.

[0012] Summary of the invention

[0013] The purpose of this invention is to eliminate the aforementioned drawbacks in known types of optical systems for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source that allows the light source to be completely hidden, eliminating the effect of glare and thus offering optimal visual comfort.

[0014] As part of the aforementioned purpose, an aim of the invention is to allow the customisation of the light beam according to specific needs.

[0015] Another aim of the optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source is to allow easy maintenance as well as to make the system more simply adaptable to the device on which it is mounted or to the context for which it is adopted.

[0016] A further aim of the invention is to improve optical efficiency by minimising light losses, so as to guarantee an almost total reflective effectiveness. This purpose, as well as these and other aims that will become clearer below, are achieved by an optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source, according to the invention, comprising the technical characteristics set forth in one or more of the accompanying claims. The dependent claims correspond to possible different embodiments of the invention.

[0017] In particular, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to an optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by a source, which comprises, on a supporting structure, a primary optic configured to concentrate the light beam of the source in at least one focal point generating a virtual image of the source itself, and a secondary optic suitable for receiving the light concentrated in the virtual image and to modulate the light beam according to a predefined profile, adaptable according to the application needs.

[0018] The primary optic has a reflective or refractive surface with a curvaturehaving an elliptical portion adapted suitable for creating said at least one focal point.

[0019] Advantageously, the optical system has a first and a second focal point placed at a predetermined mutual distance as a function of the elliptical portion of the curvature.

[0020] In particular, the Applicant has understood that the optical principle must ensure that the light beam of the LED source is concentrated on one or two focal points, in order to optically create an image of the source itself in the two new positions of the focal points.

[0021] The Applicant has perceived that the curvature of the primary optics is made starting from an elliptical geometry and then modified for the optimisation and possible creation of a second focal point based on the optical needs of aperture and type of light beam.

[0022] It is known that an ellipse centred at the origin of an XOY Cartesian system of axes with the major axis placed along the axis of the abscissa is defined by the equation: = 1

[0023]

[0024] This equation expresses the property that any ray coming from or passing through one of the two focal points, for example the first focal point, is mirrored on the other focal point, that is, on the second focal point.

[0025] Using a perfect ellipse will give results depending on the type of light beam The Applicant has verified that in this way the principle allows the light to be extracted and then managed as if the source were directly in the focal points and not in the real position, eliminating the direct contact of users with the LEDs.

[0026] In order achieve this effect, the surface must be as theoretically similar as possible to a theoretical mirror.

[0027] For this purpose, the primary optic is preferably made of plastic or metal by means of a mirror metallisation treatment in order to maximise the reflective efficiency; the mirror metallisation treatment ensures a high reflective effectiveness.

[0028] Obviously, this does not exclude that the light reflection can be carried outwith other treatments with better or worse results.

[0029] The primary optic, therefore, optically distributes the light source on a virtual line or projects it on a virtual point, different from the origin, allowing the secondary optic to be studied as if the light source were virtually arranged on this virtual line or point.

[0030] In this way, the designer has the possibility of controlling the light beam while keeping the light source completely hidden: concentrating the focus of the primary optic in a certain area allows this area to be considered as the light source of the secondary optic.

[0031] By varying the geometry of the secondary optic it is possible to modify the light beam according to the needs, that is, the designer can control the light in order to direct it in the best possible way on the reference target.

[0032] Advantageously, the secondary optic is suitable for being configured to modify the aperture angle of the light beam, and / or vary the light distribution, and / or reduce glare by means of a specular, satin or anodised surface treatment.

[0033] It is therefore easy for the designer to change the secondary optics.

[0034] Advantageously, the secondary optic is removably fixed to the supporting structure, so that it can be easily replaced.

[0035] Equally advantageously, the source and primary optics are also removable to allow replacement or maintenance without the need to disassemble the entire panel.

[0036] Another aspect of the invention relates to a sandwich panel comprising such an optical system.

[0037] Advantageously, this panel provides a cavity suitable for housing the source, the primary optic and the secondary optic.

[0038] In other words, the optical system is suitable for being integrated into a sandwich panel which preferably has a very reduced thickness compared to the planar surface.

[0039] Description of the drawings

[0040] Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become moreapparent from the description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment of the optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source, illustrated by way of example and without limiting the scope of the invention with the aid of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0041] Figure 1 schematically illustrates the optical system 1 with the trajectories of the light beams L coming from the sources S;

[0042] Figure 2 illustrates the section of a panel 101 provided with the optical system 1 ;

[0043] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the panel 101 with the power supply head 40 mounted;

[0044] Figure 4 illustrates a second perspective view of the panel 101 ;

[0045] Figure 5 illustrates another perspective view of the panel 101 provided with the joint 50.

[0046] Detailed description

[0047] With reference to the aforementioned drawings, a preferred embodiment of an optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source S is shown, according to the invention, which is identified in its entirety with reference numeral 1 and which comprises a primary optic 10 and a secondary optic 20 mounted on a cavity defined on a supporting structure 30 of a sandwich panel 101.

[0048] The primary optic 10 is configured to concentrate the light beam emitted by the source S into the first focal point F1 and second focal point F2, generating a virtual image of the light source S itself. The primary optic has a reflective or refractive surface 11 with a curvature C provided with an elliptical portion, designed to create such focal points F1 and F2 (Figure 1). The primary optic 10 generates these two focal points F1 and F2 at a predetermined distance, as a function of the elliptical portion, in order to optimise the control of the light beam.

[0049] The secondary optic 20 receives the light L concentrated in the virtual image and modulates the light beam according to a predefined profile 21 ,adaptable according to the application needs. This secondary optic 20 can be configured to modify the aperture angle of the beam, vary the light distribution or reduce glare, by means of a specular, satin or anodised surface treatment, of per se known type.

[0050] In other words, the primary optic 10 is suitable for generating a virtual image of the light source distributed along a line, in order to optimise the light distribution of the secondary optic 20.

[0051] With reference to Figure 2, the secondary optic 20 is interchangeable and fixed to the supporting structure 30 by fixing means, which preferably include ferromagnetic elements 33 and magnets 31 and 32.

[0052] For example, a first and a second ferromagnetic hexagonal element 33 are fixed to the supporting structure 30 and are suitable for interacting with the relative first 31 and second magnet 32, respectively associated with the primary 10 and secondary 20 optics.

[0053] These fixing means can integrate a locking step 35, defined between the secondary optic 20 and the supporting structure 30, in order to avoid accidental detachments during use.

[0054] The light source S and the primary optic 10 are removable, allowing replacement or maintenance without having to disassemble the entire system.

[0055] In particular, the source S is electrically connected to a power supply head 40, which is configured to transfer power supply and data signals to the source S itself.

[0056] The connection is made through electrical contacts integrated into the head, which allow the source to be powered and, if necessary, transmit control signals to modulate the light intensity, the colour of the light or manage other functions.

[0057] In other words, the light source uses a spring contact system, which enables a plug-and-play interface, making the connection quick, stable and easily removable for maintenance or replacement.

[0058] The head 40 is configured to transfer power supply and data signals to thesource S via integrated electrical contacts.

[0059] A mechanical and electrical joint 50 is also provided for the connection between several optical systems, guaranteeing structural and electrical continuity of the panel 101 along its direction of extension (Figure 5).

[0060] This connection is internal to the panel and is used to obtain longer lengths than the physical production limits. For example, in the case of a 4 metre long extruded element but with the need to manage 9 metres, two 3 metre long pieces can be joined.

[0061] In practice, through the use of magnets, the first 31 and second 32 magnet, the primary 10 and secondary 20 optics are mechanically fixed, thanks to the ferromagnets 33 placed in the corresponding compartments 36 formed in the metal profile inside the structure of the sandwich panel 101 (Fig. 5): this allows a mechanical fixing of the aforementioned parts.

[0062] The locking step 35, in turn, ensures that the secondary optic 20 cannot be easily detached.

[0063] The need to replace the secondary optic 20 is related to the possibility of changing the light beam and light output characteristics; for example, in the event of a failure, it may be necessary to change the LED board 60. Or, for other needs, it may be necessary to change the colour temperature of the light.

[0064] By means of suitable unlocking elements, it will be possible to remove the secondary optic 20 (as well as the primary optic 10) from the board 60 to carry out maintenance or change lighting characteristics.

[0065] Normally, the shelves or furnishing components provide for the use of channels and LED sources that, in case of maintenance, require a replacement of the product with the age-old problem of the cables that power the products themselves. The electrification system that uses spring components (springs or pogo pins) allows the devices to be attached and disconnected electrically in a simple and plug and play manner.

[0066] With the help of the power supply head 40, it is possible to bring power supply and any control data signals directly into the product.In fact, the head 40 has electrical contacts that will match with electrical spring contacts on the LED board 60. The electrical contacts directly on the board 60 will allow the connection of the power supply and any control signals directly with the power supply head.

[0067] From the above it can therefore be seen how the invention achieves the proposed purpose and aims and in particular the fact that an optical system for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by an LED source is achieved, which is suitable for being incorporated into a sandwich panel; this panel includes a cavity intended to house the light source, the primary optic and the secondary optic.

[0068] This configuration is ideal for modular and scalable applications, allowing complex and customisable lighting systems to be created.

[0069] In particular, the implementation of the double focal point allows a light distribution such that the primary optic can be configured to generate a virtual image of the source distributed along a line, improving the luminous efficiency of the secondary optic.

[0070] This makes it possible to construct an optical scheme which is capable of obtaining the light output without the LED sources being visible, allowing an extremely comfortable optic for the user’s eyes.

[0071] Another advantage is that the product can be characterised in an important way since, when the light is off, it will be of similar material to the panel and therefore completely integrated and not visible.

[0072] Another advantage of the invention is therefore given by an improved visual comfort, thanks to the extreme reduction of glare and greater luminous uniformity.

[0073] Another advantage of such an optical system is its application flexibility, adapting to specific needs through interchangeable and customisable secondary optics.

[0074] A further advantage is in the optical efficiency: thanks to the advanced design of the primary optics, there is an optimisation of the light distribution and a greater reduction in losses.In addition, the proposed modular system allows the rapid replacement of the main components without complex interventions, facilitating the maintenance of the optical system.

[0075] Last but not least, the possibility of connecting multiple optical systems to create structurally and electrically continuous configurations is advantageous.

[0076] The invention described can be modified and adapted in several ways without thereby departing from the scope of the inventive concept.

[0077] Moreover, all the details of the invention may be substituted by other technically equivalent elements.

[0078] In practice, the materials used, as well as the dimensions, may be of any type, depending on requirements, provided that they are consistent with their production purposes.

Claims

CLAIMS1 ) An optical system (1 ) for the management and modulation of a light beam emitted by a source (S), comprising, on a supporting structure (30):a primary optic (10) configured to concentrate the light beam of the source (S) in at least one focal point (F1, F2), generating a virtual image of the source (S) itself;a secondary optic (20) configured to receive the light (L) concentrated in the virtual image and modulate the light beam according to a predefined profile (21), adaptable according to the application needs;the primary optic (10) having a reflective or refractive surface (11) with a curvature (C) having an elliptical portion (), suitable for creating said at least one focal point (F1 , F2).2) The optical system (1) according to claim 1 , comprising a first focal point (F1) and a second focal point (F2) placed at a predetermined mutual distance depending on the elliptical portion of the curvature (C).3) The optical system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the secondary optic (20) is suitable for being configured for:- modifying the aperture angle of the light beam, and / or- varying the light distribution, and / or- reducing glare by means of specular, satin or anodised surface treatment.4) The optical system (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the secondary optic (20) is removably fixed to the supporting structure (30) by fixing means (31 , 32, 33, 35);said fixing means preferably comprising ferromagnetic elements (33) integrated in the supporting structure (30) and magnets (31 , 32) positioned in the primary (10) and secondary (20) optics.5) The optical system (1) according to claim 4, wherein the fixing means (31 , 32, 33, 35) comprise a locking step (35) interposed between the supporting structure (30) and the secondary optic (20).6) The optical system (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein thesource (S) and the primary optic (10) are removable to allow the replacement or maintenance without the need to disassemble the entire panel.7) The optical system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a power supply head (40) configured to transfer power supply and data signals to the source (S) via integrated electrical contacts.8) The optical system (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the primary optic (10) is suitable for generating a virtual image of the light source distributed along a line, in order to optimise the light distribution of the secondary optic (20).9) The optical system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a mechanical and electrical joint (50) for the connection between several optical systems, ensuring the structural and electrical continuity of the panel (101).10) A sandwich panel (101) comprising at least one optical system (1) according to one or more of claims 1 of 9, preferably comprising a cavity () suitable for housing the source (S), the primary optic (10) and the secondary optic (201).

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