Edge-Lit Optical Element for Uniform Downlighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Edge-lit lighting systems face challenges in achieving efficient optical coupling from the light source to the waveguide, resulting in light loss and non-uniform light distribution, with issues like 'hotspotting' along the edges due to insufficient mixing of light from adjacent LEDs.
Innovation Solution
The use of novel edge-lit optical elements that function as both diffusers and direct throughput lenses, incorporating light scattering layers and angled input faces to improve light mixing and distribution, along with bezels to reduce hotspotting and enhance visual uniformity, while being designed for integration into ceiling grid systems without impacting plenum requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional edge-lit waveguides are used, then thin form factor is achieved, but optical coupling efficiency is poor with 10% to 30% light loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical coupling layer as an intermediary between the LED light source and the waveguide. This coupling layer, positioned at the input face of the waveguide, improves optical coupling efficiency by reducing light loss while maintaining the thin form factor of the waveguide structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the input face geometry of the waveguide by introducing angled input faces and optimized dimensions. These parameter changes improve the coupling of light from adjacent LEDs into the waveguide, reducing light loss while preserving the thin profile.
2Length of moving object
If conventional waveguides are used, then thin form factor is achieved, but light distribution is non-uniform with hotspotting along edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a diffuser layer as an intermediary within the waveguide structure. This diffuser layer mixes light from adjacent LEDs before it propagates through the waveguide, eliminating hotspotting and achieving uniform light distribution while maintaining the thin form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the waveguide into functional zones including input faces, diffuser regions, and output regions. This segmentation allows light from multiple LEDs to be properly mixed and distributed throughout the thin waveguide structure, achieving uniform illumination without compromising thickness.
3Illumination intensity
If bezels or edge reflectors are added to reduce hotspotting, then visual uniformity improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of bezels, edge reflectors, and diffusers into an integrated optical assembly. This consolidation achieves the same visual uniformity benefits while simplifying manufacturing by reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs optical elements that perform multiple functions simultaneously - the optical coupling layer provides both coupling efficiency improvement and acts as a diffuser for uniform light distribution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components like bezels and edge reflectors, simplifying manufacturing.
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 enhances light output uniformity and reduces light loss, providing improved aesthetic appearance and luminous efficacy by effectively mixing and directing light, minimizing hotspotting and edge brightness issues.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating light scattering layers and angled input faces to improve light mixing and distribution
Implementation Method 2
edge-lit optical elements that functions simultaneously as a diffuser and direct throughput lens
Implementation Method 3
outcoupling TIR light guide
Data Source
AI summary
A light fixture with edgelit optical element is configured with an elongate body which retains and aligns optical components in a shallow linear form factor. Embodiments can be installed within a ceiling grid system and provide a fixture height less than that of a ceiling grid T-bar. An edglit optical element with light scattering features produces an extended emitting area for low glare and provides light distributions such as asymmetric and symmetric batwing distributions particularly useful in downlighting and other lighting applications.