Volumetric Asymmetric Polymer Diffuser for Architectural Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional architectural lighting fixtures face inefficiencies in distributing light uniformly onto target surfaces due to non-uniform illuminance caused by the Cosine Law and Inverse Square Law, requiring costly custom optics and leading to suboptimal beam spread and optical throw.
Innovation Solution
The use of thin, low-cost, volumetric asymmetric polymer diffuser films or plates with unique angular scattering profiles, oriented perpendicular to the illuminated surface, which increase illuminance uniformity and optical throw by preferentially scattering light in specific directions, allowing more light to pass through without scattering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional secondary optics (lenses or reflectors) are used to collimate light, then angular intensity within desired angular range is increased, but illuminance uniformity on target surface deteriorates due to non-uniform angular distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric scattering particles oriented perpendicular to the illuminated surface, creating an asymmetric scattering pattern that compensates for the cosine law and inverse square law effects. This asymmetric configuration redistributes light intensity to achieve uniform illuminance across the target surface, resolving the contradiction between angular intensity concentration and illuminance uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the scattering characteristics by using volumetric asymmetric polymer particles with specific orientation (perpendicular to illuminated surface). This parameter change in particle orientation and scattering properties transforms the light distribution pattern, converting non-uniform angular intensity into uniform illuminance on the target surface.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom secondary optics are designed to provide uniform light intensity distribution, then illuminance uniformity is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive custom-molded optics with inexpensive volumetric asymmetric polymer scattering particles. These particles can be incorporated into standard diffuser materials through simple manufacturing processes, eliminating the need for costly custom optics while achieving uniform illuminance distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves uniform light distribution by changing the physical parameters of the scattering medium - using volumetric asymmetric polymer particles with specific orientation rather than complex lens or reflector geometries. This parameter change simplifies the optical system while maintaining illuminance uniformity.
3Length of stationary object
If light is directed normal to the primary plane of illumination, then optical throw is maximized, but illuminance uniformity deteriorates due to rapid decrease from central region
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses asymmetric scattering particles oriented perpendicular to the illuminated surface to create an asymmetric scattering pattern. This asymmetric configuration compensates for the cosine law and inverse square law effects, maintaining uniform illuminance across the target surface even when light is directed normal to the plane, thus preserving both optical throw and illuminance uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The asymmetric scattering particles perform preliminary compensation for the cosine law and inverse square law effects by pre-distributing light intensity in a pattern that counteracts the natural fall-off. This preliminary action ensures uniform illuminance is achieved without requiring additional optical elements or complex positioning.
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
This solution enhances illuminance uniformity and efficiency by increasing the light flux on target surfaces, reducing the need for multiple fixtures and lowering energy consumption, while maintaining a wide beam spread and uniform intensity distribution.
Implementation Method 1
volumetric asymmetric polymer diffuser films or plates with unique angular scattering profiles, oriented perpendicular to the illuminated surface, which increase illuminance uniformity and optical throw by preferentially scattering light in specific directions
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides improved optical elements, such as light diffusing films, plates, and lenses, which can be used in light-emitting devices, such as light fixtures to control the distribution of light projected onto illuminated objects, such as walls, sculptures, and landscaping. Compared to traditional light scattering films, plates or lenses, improvements in illuminance uniformity, optical throw, system efficacy, and aesthetic appearance are achieved. Embodiments of the invention utilize region(s) of volumetric asymmetric diffusion that allow a partial quantity of light to be transmitted without significant scattering in order to improve optical throw and illuminance uniformity. Embodiments can also eliminate hotspot and thus improve the illuminated uniformity.