Angled Diffuser Lighting Device for Uniform Interior Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light pipes primarily distribute natural light downward, failing to provide a uniform illumination in interior spaces, which limits their effectiveness in enhancing energy efficiency and reducing peak electricity demand.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device comprising a cylindrical tube with a reflective surface and an angled diffuser, allowing for the distribution of light in a non-perpendicular direction to the longitudinal axis, combined with a supplemental artificial light source, such as LEDs, to achieve more uniform and efficient light distribution within a building.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional light pipes distribute light in a generally downward manner, then the light distribution direction is simple and the device structure is simple, but the light distribution uniformity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an angled diffuser that redirects light at a specific angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the longitudinal axis of the light pipe. This asymmetric light distribution approach transforms the conventional downward-only light path into a multi-directional illumination pattern, improving uniformity across the interior space while adding only moderate structural complexity through the angled diffuser component.
2Use of energy by moving object
If only natural light is used through light pipes, then energy consumption is reduced, but lighting availability is limited to periods with natural light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines natural light transmission through the light pipe with artificial supplemental lighting sources. The artificial lights are positioned to illuminate the interior of the light pipe, working in conjunction with natural light to extend lighting availability into intermediate periods (dusk, dawn, overcast conditions) while maintaining lower overall energy consumption compared to using artificial lighting alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system activates artificial supplemental lighting in advance during intermediate periods when natural light becomes insufficient. This preliminary action ensures continuous illumination by transitioning from reliance on natural light alone to a hybrid approach before complete darkness sets in, thereby extending effective lighting duration without excessive energy use.
3Illumination intensity
If light pipes are incorporated into walls or roofs, then natural light distribution is improved, but the ability to distribute light to various areas within the interior space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds angular dimension to light distribution through the angled diffuser, which redirects light not only downward but also in lateral directions. This dimensional change in light propagation allows the light pipe to illuminate multiple areas within the interior space, enhancing versatility and coverage beyond the limited downward projection of conventional light pipes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a more uniform and efficient distribution of light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during intermediate periods of natural light availability, thereby conserving energy and lowering peak electricity demand.
Implementation Method 1
A reflective surface is provided on the interior of the tube
Implementation Method 2
a diffuser is coupled to the tube proximate the second end... configured to direct the light into the interior of the building in a direction that is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting device includes a substantially cylindrical tube defining an interior and an exterior, and a longitudinal axis extending between a first end and a second end. The first end of the tube defines a substantially cylindrical opening disposed in a plane at a first angle that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the second end of the tube defines a substantially elliptical opening disposed in a plane at a second angle that is substantially non-perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A reflective surface is provided on the interior of the tube, and a substantially cylindrical flashing is provided about the exterior of the tube. A substantially transparent dome is coupled to the tube proximate the first end, and a diffuser is coupled to the tube proximate the second end.