Configurable LED Light Source with Movable Optic
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light sources based on light emitting diodes (LEDs) have fixed illumination patterns, which are inflexible and require multiple unique optics and increased production costs to accommodate different applications, limiting their versatility and economic efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A light source comprising a light emitting diode and an associated optic that can be adjusted relative to each other to produce configurable illumination patterns, allowing for various positioning configurations to achieve multiple illumination patterns with a single lighting system, including movement of the optic or light emitting diode within a cavity, enabling flexible and customizable light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple unique optics are used to achieve different illumination patterns, then illumination pattern variety is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the optical element movable relative to the LED source. The optical element can be positioned at different locations and orientations within the housing, allowing a single optical element to produce multiple illumination patterns through dynamic repositioning rather than requiring multiple static optical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single optical element that can perform multiple functions - producing different illumination patterns (e.g., flood, spot, directional) by changing its position and orientation. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized optical elements for different applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple unique optics are manufactured for different applications, then illumination pattern variety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single optical element design that can serve multiple applications through repositioning. This reduces the total number of unique parts that need to be manufactured, tooling costs, and inventory requirements, thereby lowering overall production costs while maintaining the ability to provide different illumination patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
By making the optical element movable rather than fixed, the system allows customers to configure the illumination pattern needed for their specific application by simply repositioning the optical element, eliminating the need to manufacture and store multiple specialized optical elements for different applications.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed illumination patterns are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains manufacturing simplicity by using a single fixed housing design with a movable optical element. The housing structure remains simple and easy to manufacture, while the optical element can be dynamically repositioned to achieve different illumination patterns, thus maintaining both manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the housing structure from the optical element, allowing the optical element to be independently moved and repositioned within the housing. This segmentation enables the system to maintain a simple, standardized housing design while providing flexible illumination patterns through the movable optical component.
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 reduces the need for multiple unique optics, improves production economics, and allows for on-site or factory configuration of desired illumination patterns, enhancing the versatility and cost-effectiveness of LED-based lighting systems.
Implementation Method 1
light sources based on light emitting diode technology
Implementation Method 2
converting electrical energy into luminous energy
Implementation Method 3
an optic whose relative positions can be adjusted to produce different illumination patterns
Data Source
AI summary
A light source can comprise an optical element, one or more light emitting diodes, and an adjustment. The light emitting diode or diodes can emit light. The optical element can process the emitted light to produce an illumination pattern. The adjustment can change the relative positions of the optical element and the light emitting diodes or diodes, for example by moving some aspect of the optical element or some aspect of the light emitting diode or diodes. The positional change can change the illumination pattern. The adjustment can comprise settings so that the light source can be readily configured to meet predefined application parameters, for example according to IESNA roadway classifications.