Flexible PCB Light Engine for Dynamic Light Distribution Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems, particularly those using LEDs, face challenges in achieving customizable light distribution patterns and independent control of illumination sources, which limits their adaptability to various applications requiring specific light emission characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A flexible printed circuit board with independently addressable LED segments and flexible legs, allowing for independent control of illumination sources, including different colors and brightness, is integrated into a light engine. This design enables precise control of light distribution by segmenting the LED sources and using a multilayer structure with adhesive, dielectric, and metal layers for electrical connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If LEDs are used as light sources, then energy efficiency is improved, but control over light distribution patterns is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible printed circuit board is divided into multiple segments, each containing a set of LEDs that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different light distribution patterns to be achieved by activating specific segments, thereby providing versatility in light control while maintaining the energy efficiency of LED technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of LED segments through independent addressing of each segment via the flexible printed circuit board. This allows the light distribution pattern to be changed in real-time based on application requirements, transforming a static lighting system into a dynamic one that can adapt to various scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If traditional light sources are used, then light distribution control is simpler, but energy efficiency and heat radiation are worse
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the LED array into independently controllable groups, the patent achieves a level of operational control comparable to traditional lighting systems while retaining the energy efficiency advantages of LEDs. Each segment can be controlled individually, providing ease of operation similar to traditional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the ability to change operational parameters (such as which segments are active, their brightness levels, and timing) to achieve different light distribution patterns. This parameter control allows LED systems to match the operational flexibility of traditional sources while maintaining superior energy efficiency.
3Ease of manufacture
If LEDs are paired with fixed light fixtures, then installation is simpler, but adaptability to different applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible printed circuit board with independently addressable LED segments creates a dynamically configurable lighting system. Rather than requiring different fixed fixtures for different applications, the same fixture can be reconfigured through software control to meet various application requirements, maintaining installation simplicity while achieving high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal light engine platform where the same physical fixture can serve multiple applications by changing the activation pattern of LED segments. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for application-specific fixtures, simplifying installation while providing versatility across different use cases.
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 flexible and customizable light distribution, enabling the light engine to adapt to diverse applications by allowing independent control of each LED segment, enhancing energy efficiency and light output uniformity.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible printed circuit board with independently addressable LED segments and flexible legs, allowing for independent control of illumination sources
Data Source
AI summary
A light engine and system are disclosed in which the light engine contains a core comprising an opening extending through opposing surfaces and a flexible printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB includes a flexible body disposed on an outside of the core and having independently addressable sets of illumination sources mounted thereto, and flexible legs extending from the body and through the opening. The legs are bent such that a terminal portion of each leg is substantially parallel to the opposing surfaces of the core. Independent control of the sets of illumination sources is provided via the legs. The body is separated into segments, each on a different section of the outside and containing body contacts electrically independent of the body contacts of each other segment. Each leg is associated with a different segment, and contains leg contacts on the terminal portion in electrical contact with the associated body contacts.