Gradient Optics for Uniform LED Light Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
LEDs, being point light sources, pose design challenges for uniform light distribution in troffers, as using a large number of LEDs to achieve even distribution results in complex and costly designs.
Innovation Solution
A distribution panel with gradient optics providing a matching transparency gradient aligns with the light source to evenly distribute light, either from LEDs or fluorescent tubes, across the troffer, using materials like acrylic with concentric circles or surface coatings to vary transparency and enhance light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a large number of LEDs are distributed throughout the troffer to achieve uniformly distributed light, then uniform light distribution is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a distribution panel as an intermediary component between the LED light source and the troffer interior. This panel features a transparency gradient that varies from a first transparency value to a second transparency value, allowing it to redistribute light from a single or few LED sources to achieve uniform illumination across the troffer without requiring multiple LEDs throughout the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution panel utilizes changes in the transparency parameter across its surface area to control light distribution. By varying the transparency value from one region to another (creating a gradient), the panel redirects and diffuses light from point sources to achieve uniform illumination patterns, effectively transforming the light distribution characteristic without changing the LED configuration.
2Illumination intensity
If a large number of LEDs are distributed throughout the troffer to achieve uniformly distributed light, then uniform light distribution is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution panel serves as a mediating optical element that enables uniform light distribution using only one or a few LED sources. The panel's transparency gradient structure acts as the primary mechanism for achieving even illumination, eliminating the need to increase the quantity of LEDs throughout the troffer.
Solution Approach 2:
By modifying the transparency parameter of the distribution panel across its surface, the system achieves uniform light distribution with minimal LED quantity. The transparency gradient transforms the light output from point sources into a uniformly distributed pattern, reducing the total number of LEDs required.
3Illumination intensity
If fluorescent lighting tubes are used in troffers to achieve desirable light distribution, then uniform light distribution is improved, but cost and complexity increase due to warm up time and flicker issues
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution panel with transparency gradient acts as an intermediary that enables LED point sources to produce uniform light distribution patterns previously only achievable with fluorescent tubes. This allows the system to use reliable, flicker-free LED technology while maintaining desirable illumination characteristics through the optical mediation of the gradient panel.
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 simple and cost-effective method for achieving uniform light distribution in troffers, allowing for efficient use of LEDs by ensuring even light coverage across the troffer, overcoming the limitations of traditional fluorescent lighting.
Implementation Method 1
gradient optics providing a matching transparency gradient that is matched to a light source to uniformly distribute the emitted light
Data Source
AI summary
Gradient optics for even light distribution of LED light sources. In an aspect, an apparatus is provided for uniform distribution of light emitted from a light source. The apparatus includes a panel coupled to receive the light emitted from the light source, and gradient optics disposed on the panel, the gradient optics providing a matching transparency gradient that is aligned with the light source to evenly distribute the emitted light. In another aspect, an apparatus includes means for receiving the light emitted from the light source, and means for providing a matching transparency gradient that is aligned with the light source to evenly distribute the emitted light.