Flexible LED Module Sideways Light Emission via Segmented Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible linear lighting modules with solid state light radiation sources face challenges in achieving sidewise flexibility and complex manufacturing processes, affecting cost and performance.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device with a channel-shaped profiled element featuring a light-permeable and light-impermeable polymer material combination, where the light radiation source assembly is laminated with an adhesive material acting as an interface, allowing for improved mechanical features and sidewise light emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the light radiation source assembly is arranged horizontally in the case with up/down geometry, then the module can be bent in the vertical direction, but achieving sidewise flexibility becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The case is divided into a first portion and a second portion with different optical properties. The first portion is light-permeable allowing light transmission, while the second portion is light-impermeable providing structural support and light blocking. This segmentation enables the case to achieve both up/down and sidewise flexibility without complex multi-component structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The case is constructed as a composite structure combining light-permeable polymer material and light-impermeable polymer material in a single integrated body. This composite approach simplifies manufacturing compared to assembling multiple separate components, while providing the dual functionality of light transmission and blocking needed for flexible lighting modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If co-extrusion or lamination processes are used to achieve sidewise flexibility, then the module can emit light sidewise, but the process complexity increases affecting costs and implementation
Solution Approach 1:
The case is segmented into light-permeable and light-impermeable portions that can be extruded separately and then joined. This segmentation allows each portion to be manufactured using standard extrusion processes, avoiding the need for complex co-extrusion equipment while achieving the same functional result through a simpler two-step process.
Solution Approach 2:
An adhesive material is introduced as an intermediary between the light radiation source assembly and the case portions. This adhesive layer simplifies the assembly process by providing a straightforward bonding mechanism, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening or welding operations.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple components case with reflective walls is used, then light radiation can be directed upwards, but the module appearance and performances are affected
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the case are assigned different optical qualities: the first portion is light-permeable for light transmission and aesthetic appearance, while the second portion is light-impermeable for light blocking and structural definition. This local differentiation allows the module to achieve proper light direction control while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance in the light-permeable portions.
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 flexible linear lighting modules to emit light perpendicular to the bending direction with enhanced mechanical features and homogeneous light distribution, simplifying manufacturing and improving module performance.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive material may be used which acts as an interface material between the light radiation source assembly and the extruded profile
Implementation Method 2
a first portion 120 of a light-permeable material
Implementation Method 3
a second portion 122 of a light-impermeable material
Implementation Method 4
has reflective walls on the sides and on the bottom, so as to direct the light radiation upwards
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting device, such as for example a LED flexible module, includes an elongated profiled body having a mouth portion, a first and a second lateral sides arranged sidewise of the mouth portion and a web side opposed the mouth portion. The profiled body includes a light-permeable portion, extending between the mouth portion and the first lateral side, and a light-impermeable portion extending between the second lateral side and the web side. A light radiation source assembly including a support member with one or more electrically powered light radiation sources is arranged at the mouth portion with the light radiation source(s) facing the light-permeable portion, whereby light radiation is directed towards the first lateral side for emission from the lighting device.