Concentric LED Lighting Module Thermal and Optical Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Incandescent bulbs used in underwater lighting are inefficient, produce excessive heat, require high voltage, and have a limited lifespan, while high-power LEDs result in a large assembly for given light intensity and produce a 'fuzzy' lighting effect due to granular light sources.
Innovation Solution
A lighting module comprising Luxeon Rebel ES High Lumen LEDs arranged in concentric circles with thermal management using copper or similar materials for efficient heat dissipation and a radial LED support structure that enhances light concentration and collimation, allowing for improved color blending and reduced shadowing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If incandescent bulbs are used for underwater lighting, then lighting intensity is achieved, but energy efficiency deteriorates and excessive heat is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from incandescent bulb technology to LED technology, fundamentally changing the light generation mechanism. LEDs convert electrical energy to light more efficiently, reducing energy loss and heat generation while maintaining or improving lighting intensity. This parameter change in the light source technology resolves the contradiction between achieving sufficient illumination and minimizing energy waste.
2Loss of energy
If high power LEDs are used, then energy efficiency is improved, but assembly size increases due to required spacing for reflectors or optical elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple LEDs and their optical elements (reflectors or lenses) into a single integrated housing structure. This merging of components eliminates the need for separate mounting spaces for each LED's optical elements, allowing high-power LEDs to be used efficiently without increasing overall assembly size. The compact integration resolves the contradiction between energy efficiency and compact dimensions.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple LED sources are used, then lighting coverage is improved, but shadowing and fuzzy appearance increase due to granular light distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a diffuser as an intermediary element between the multiple LED light sources and the illuminated area. The diffuser scattering the light from multiple discrete LED sources, blending them into a uniform, shadow-free illumination field. This intermediary component resolves the contradiction between wide lighting coverage and high lighting quality by eliminating the granular appearance and shadowing effects.
4Device complexity
If incandescent bulbs are used, then simplicity of design is maintained, but lifespan is limited and reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters of the light source from incandescent to LED technology. LEDs have significantly longer operational lifespans and higher reliability while maintaining design simplicity through the integrated housing structure. This parameter change in light source technology resolves the contradiction between design simplicity and reliability by providing a longer-lasting, more dependable lighting solution.
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 highly efficient, compact, and intense lighting system with excellent color mixing and reduced shadowing, suitable for underwater and theatrical applications, with improved heat management and extended LED lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
thermal management using copper or similar materials for efficient heat dissipation
Data Source
AI summary
Lighting modules having a first LED support having a first plurality of LEDs mounted thereon adjacent a center of the first LED support, a second LED support having an outer edge and an inner opening, and a second plurality of LEDs mounted thereon adjacent the inner opening of the second LED support, the second LED support being spaced apart from the first LED support, the inner opening of the second LED support being larger than the region of the first LED support having the first plurality of LEDs, whereby light from the LEDs on the first LED support may pass though the inner opening of the second LED support. Additional larger LED supports with LEDs may be added, and the assembly of the LED supports sealed with the outer edges of the LED supports extending outward for immersion and cooling in water when incorporated in a larger sealed assembly.