Ellipsoidal Cathode Shape for Field Emission Lighting Uniformity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional field emission lighting arrangements lack a form factor suitable for retrofitting into incandescent bulbs and compact fluorescent light sources, and existing solutions are not environmentally friendly due to mercury content, with non-uniform light distribution and high fabrication complexity.
Innovation Solution
A field emission lighting arrangement with a bulb-shaped evacuated envelope featuring an ellipsoidal cathode shape and position, optimized for uniform electric field distribution, combined with nanostructures and an electrically conductive structure to enhance light output and compatibility with existing fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional tube-shaped field emission lighting arrangement is used, then the device can be manufactured with simple geometry, but it is not suitable for retrofitting into traditional incandescent bulbs and compact fluorescent light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spheroidality by designing the evacuated envelope with a bulb-shaped geometry instead of a traditional tube shape. This curved, spherical form factor enables compatibility with existing incandescent bulb fixtures and sockets, directly resolving the retrofitting compatibility issue while maintaining the field emission lighting functionality
2Stability of the object's composition
If the cathode is positioned at the center of a spherical envelope, then the structure is symmetric and simple, but the electric field distribution on the cathode surface becomes non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the cathode off-center within the spherical envelope and giving it an ellipsoidal shape rather than a spherical form. This asymmetric configuration creates a more uniform electric field distribution across the cathode surface, improving electron emission uniformity and overall light output consistency
3Use of energy by moving object
If fluorescent light sources are used as alternative to incandescent bulbs, then energy efficiency is improved, but mercury content creates health risks and recycling complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mercury entirely from the lighting system, using field emission technology that generates light through electron emission and phosphor conversion without any mercury-containing components. This resolves the harmful factor issue while maintaining high energy efficiency through the field emission mechanism
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 uniform light distribution and extended lifespan by maintaining a consistent electric field strength, making it suitable for retrofitting and environmentally friendly, while reducing the complexity and cost of recycling.
Implementation Method 1
the power supply is configured to apply a voltage such that electrons are emitted from the cathode to the anode structure
Implementation Method 2
an electron to light conversion layer, which is configured to convert energy from impinging electrons to light
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c~2d
AI summary
The present invention relates to a field emission lighting arrangement, comprising an anode and a cathode, where the shape of the cathode is selected based on the shape of a evacuated envelope in which the anode and cathode is provided. The inventive shape of cathode allows for an improved uniformity of an electric field provided between the anode and cathode during operation of the field emission lighting arrangement. The invention also relates to a corresponding method for selecting a shape of such a cathode.