Configurable Optical Transducers with Spatial Light Modulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust light distribution, requiring multiple fixtures for different applications and offering only coarse control through mechanical adjustments, which is not suitable for general lighting or sensor applications.
Innovation Solution
Software-configurable optical transducers with a multi-lens arrangement and a controllable optical modulator, such as an electrowetting optic, that can steer and shape light to achieve a selected distribution, allowing for programmable lighting solutions for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple luminaires are provided to meet different lighting applications, then lighting distribution requirements are satisfied, but device complexity and quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single luminaire that can perform multiple lighting distribution functions by integrating an array of individually controllable light engines, each with its own electro-optic component. This allows one device to replace multiple specialized luminaires while maintaining the ability to provide different lighting patterns through electronic control of the light engine array.
2Ease of operation
If mechanically adjustable lenses and irises are used, then light beam shape and direction can be adjusted, but control precision and suitability for general lighting are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronically controlled electro-optic components. Each light engine incorporates an electro-optic element that can be precisely controlled via electrical signals to adjust beam shape and direction, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment while achieving superior control precision suitable for general lighting applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separately controllable light engines are used, then light distribution adjustment is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting function into multiple independently controllable light engines within a single luminaire. Each light engine can be individually controlled to produce different beam patterns and distributions. This segmentation allows flexible combination of light engines to achieve various lighting scenarios while keeping each individual module relatively simple and manageable.
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
Enables precise control over light distribution, emulating different luminaire types and optimizing light detection patterns, enhancing flexibility and adaptability in lighting and sensor applications.
Implementation Method 1
a controllable optical modulator positioned between the multi-lens arrangement and the optical transducer to spatially modulate light to or from the optical transducer
Implementation Method 2
a multi-lens arrangement positioned to redirect at least some of the light to or from the optical transducer
Implementation Method 3
fixtures have implemented mechanical adjustments. Mechanically adjustable lenses and irises enable selectable adjustment of the output light beam shape
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable optical device may include an optical transducer, a multi-lens arrangement, and a controllable optical modulator. The optical transducer is configured to convert light to electrical signals or to convert electrical signals to light. The multi-lens arrangement is positioned to redirect at least some of the light to or from the optical transducer. The controllable optical modulator is provided between the multi-lens arrangement and the optical transducer. The controllable optical modulator is coupled to receive and spatially modulate light to or from the optical transducer. The optical modulator is selectively controllable to steer and/or shape the light to a selected distribution of light from the multi-lens arrangement onto the optical transducer and/or from the optical transducer onto the multi-lens arrangement.