Diffuse Lighting Structures for Even Illumination and Heat Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems struggle with uneven light distribution, heat management, and bulkiness, making them unsuitable for temporary or large spaces, and they pose fire hazards due to concentrated light sources and excessive heat generation.
Innovation Solution
The use of internal supporting structures with translucent or reflective flanges and webs, combined with exterior bodies, to diffuse light evenly and manage heat through convective transfer, reducing hot spots and fire risks, while allowing for collapsible and expandable designs for easy transport and setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single light source is used to illuminate a large space, then the lighting system is simple and compact, but the light distribution is uneven and hot spots are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single large light source into multiple smaller light sources (LED modules) arranged in an array. Each module emits light that is individually diffused, and collectively they provide uniform illumination across large spaces while maintaining a compact overall structure.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used to illuminate large spaces evenly, then light distribution improves, but heat generation increases and fire hazard increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses heat-reflective materials in the diffuser structure to capture and redirect heat away from flammable components. The diffuser incorporates reflective surfaces that bounce heat toward heat sinks or away from the light source array, converting the harmful heat effect into a manageable thermal management solution.
3Illumination intensity
If light shades are used to diffuse light from point sources, then some diffusion is achieved, but the light distribution remains uneven and the structure becomes bulkier
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin, flexible diffuser films with micro-structured surfaces that can be stretched or collapsed. When stretched, these films provide extensive light diffusion surface area; when collapsed, they minimize the system volume for easy transport and storage.
4Reliability
If large lighting systems are designed for permanent installation, then light distribution and heat management improve, but transport and setup become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the lighting system with dynamic, reconfigurable components including telescopic support structures and foldable diffuser panels. The system can be compacted for transport and then expanded to full operational size at the installation site, maintaining full lighting performance throughout the transformation.
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 even light distribution, reduces thermal hazards, and enables compact, easy-to-deploy lighting systems suitable for various environments, including temporary spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The use of internal supporting structures with translucent or reflective flanges and webs, combined with exterior bodies, to diffuse light evenly
Implementation Method 2
manage heat through convective transfer, reducing hot spots and fire risks
Data Source
AI summary
Light fixtures often have bright spots caused by the light sources that can be unpleasant or uncomfortable to look at. A light system is provided that diffuses the light. The light system includes a circular exterior body defining a void therein. A circular internal structure and an outer ring, which has a larger diameter than the circular internal structure, are positioned within the void. A plurality support pieces (for example, lines) extend radially from the circular internal structure to the outer ring. The internal structure comprises at least a web and a flange extending from the web, and one or more lights positioned thereon. The circular internal structure and the outer ring support the exterior body.