Asymmetric Optic Sheet Using TIR Refraction for Light Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor light fixtures face challenges in controlling light directionality without increasing cost or reducing optical efficiency, as large external and small internal reflectors used for redirection lower efficiency and increase installation time.
Innovation Solution
The use of optic sheets with integrated total internal reflection (TIR) refractors and refractor portions within the optic sheet to redirect light from undesirable to desirable directions, achieving asymmetrical light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If large external reflectors are positioned adjacent the light fixtures to redirect emitted light, then light directionality is controlled, but optical efficiency is lowered and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the light redirecting function directly into the optic sheet by forming TIR refractor portions and refractor portions as integral features of the optic material. This merging eliminates the need for separate external reflectors, thereby maintaining optical efficiency while achieving light directionality control.
Solution Approach 2:
The optic sheet acts as an intermediary element between the light source and the environment. By incorporating TIR refractor portions and refractor portions within the optic sheet, it mediates light redirection internally, avoiding the need for external reflectors that would compromise optical efficiency.
2Ease of operation
If small internal reflectors are positioned within the primary optic to redirect light, then light directionality is controlled, but optical efficiency is lowered and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (light redirection, light distribution) into a single integrated optic sheet structure. The TIR refractor portions and refractor portions are formed as integral features of the optic material, eliminating the need for separate internal reflector components and simplifying the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optic sheet is formed from a single optical material with integrated optical features. This composite approach allows multiple optical functions to be achieved within one homogeneous material structure, reducing manufacturing complexity compared to assembling multiple separate optical components.
3Ease of operation
If external reflectors or shields are used to control light distribution, then asymmetrical light distribution is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the asymmetrical light distribution function directly into the optic sheet design. The TIR refractor portions and refractor portions are pre-formed during optic manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate installation of external reflectors or shields, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining asymmetrical light distribution capability.
4Ease of operation
If external reflectors are used to redirect light, then light is directed towards desirable areas, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates light redirection functionality into the optic sheet itself through TIR refractor portions and refractor portions. This eliminates the need for separate external reflector components, reducing the quantity of materials and components required, thereby lowering overall fixture cost while maintaining light redirection capability.
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 optic sheets effectively control light directionality, achieving asymmetrical distribution with a majority of light directed towards the desired area, reducing the need for external shields or reflectors, and maintaining high optical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of first optic portions comprises an upstanding front wall and a curved back wall that curves convexly relative to the front wall and that comprises a total internal reflection surface, wherein the front wall is adapted to refract a first portion of received light traveling in the first direction towards the total internal reflection surface of the curved back wall and wherein the total internal reflection surface is adapted to reflect the first portion of received light in the second direction
Implementation Method 2
the front wall is adapted to refract a first portion of received light traveling in the first direction towards the total internal reflection surface of the curved back wall
Data Source
AI summary
An optic sheet having incorporated within the light entrance surface of the optic sheet optical features for creating an asymmetric light distribution from light fixtures in which the optic sheet is incorporated. In some embodiments, the optical features include total internal reflection portions and refractor portions that are provided in rows across the optic sheet and that alternate along the length of the optic sheet. In some uses, the optic sheet is designed to redirect light emitted in an undesirable (first) direction UD toward a desirable (second) direction DD.