Booster Optic Reflector Layout for Uniform LED Case Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluorescent tubes used in refrigerated display cases have a shorter lifespan and are difficult to initiate, while existing LED lighting systems require complex optics and reflectors to achieve uniform illumination.
Innovation Solution
A lighting assembly comprising multiple LED devices, a primary reflector, and a booster optic that redirects light to create a more uniform illuminance pattern, using a secondary reflective surface to distribute light further away from the central axis, enhancing the coverage and uniformity of illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If LED devices with narrow emission angles are used, then energy efficiency and lifespan are improved, but illumination uniformity deteriorates requiring complex optics and reflectors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the illumination system into distinct functional segments: a primary reflector for initial light direction and a separate booster optic for light redistribution. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining uniform illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The booster optic acts as an intermediary element between the LED source and the display case items. It receives light from the primary reflector and redistributes it to fill dark zones, serving as a mediating optical element that simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Use of energy by moving object
If LED devices with narrow emission angles are used, then energy efficiency is improved, but illumination uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The booster optic is strategically positioned and shaped to provide localized light redistribution specifically in the dark zones where illumination is insufficient. This local quality approach allows uniform illumination to be achieved without requiring all light to be redistributed, maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The booster optic introduces a secondary dimension of light control by redirecting light at different angles from the primary reflector's output. This additional dimensional control enables uniform illumination across the display case while preserving the energy efficiency of narrow-angle LED sources.
3Area of stationary object
If fluorescent tubes are used, then illumination coverage is improved, but lifespan and operational reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of fluorescent lighting (wide illumination coverage) with LED technology (long lifespan and reliability) by combining multiple LED sources with a booster optic system. This hybrid approach achieves comprehensive coverage without sacrificing operational reliability.
4Area of stationary object
If fluorescent tubes are used in refrigerated compartments, then illumination coverage is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty initiating the arc
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts LED technology, which has no arc initiation requirements and can operate reliably in cold temperatures. While individual LEDs have shorter emission angles, the system uses multiple LEDs with a booster optic to achieve comprehensive coverage, eliminating the operational difficulties of fluorescent tube initiation.
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 provides a more uniform and efficient illumination pattern, extending the lifespan of the lighting system and simplifying the optics required, making it suitable for refrigerated display cases and other applications.
Implementation Method 1
The secondary reflective surface is configured and positioned with respect to the first LED device such that light emitted from the first LED device towards the secondary reflective surface reflects from the secondary reflective surface and is redirected further away from the central axis of the primary reflective surface
Implementation Method 2
The reflector includes a central axis and is disposed in relation to the LED devices such that light emitted from the LED devices reflects from a primary reflective surface of the reflector and is directed towards items in the display case
Data Source
AI summary
A booster optic is provided in an LED light assembly that includes a primary reflective surface to redirect light towards a desired location to form an illuminance pattern that when combined with a first illuminance pattern, which is formed by only the primary reflector, provides a combined illuminance pattern having a more uniform illuminance characteristic as compared to not having the booster optic.