Hybrid LED Array for Uniform Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems, particularly those using fluorescent lamps and LEDs, face challenges such as heat emission, unsafe high voltage arcing, mercury health hazards, limited bulb lifetime, and uneven light distribution and color across 360 degrees.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves arranging varied LEDs in specific positions to balance light output and efficiency, using a combination of LEDs with different emission properties to achieve uniform illumination, and employing electronic control to adjust the relative lighting proportions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single LED with lens is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the illumination is non-uniform with color fringing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting system into multiple LED modules, each with specific lenses, arranged in a structured array. This segmentation allows each module to contribute to a portion of the illumination pattern, and through proper spacing and configuration, the combined effect achieves uniform illumination across the entire display surface, eliminating the non-uniformity and color fringing of single LED systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different LEDs within the array are equipped with different lenses (e.g., hemispherical, flat, aspherical) tailored to their specific positions. This local quality approach ensures that each LED module produces the optimal light distribution for its location, and when combined, creates a uniformly illuminated surface without color fringing, while maintaining relatively simple individual module construction.
2Illumination intensity
If LED beam angle is reduced using a lens, then the light concentration increases, but light absorption by the lens reduces overall efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent varies the lens parameters (shape, curvature, material) across different LED modules to optimize the balance between beam concentration and light transmission. By adjusting lens geometry and selecting appropriate materials with suitable refractive indices, the system achieves adequate light concentration for uniform illumination while minimizing absorption losses, thereby maintaining overall system efficiency.
3Illumination intensity
If varied LEDs with different emission properties are used, then uniform illumination is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into standardized LED modules that can be manufactured and tested as discrete units. Each module contains an LED with a specific lens configuration, and these modular units are arranged in a repeating pattern. This segmentation reduces complexity by allowing standardized production and simplifying installation, while still achieving uniform illumination through the collective effect of multiple modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple types of lenses (hemispherical, flat, aspherical) that can serve different functions within the same system architecture. These universal lens designs can be applied across various LED positions and configurations, providing flexibility in achieving uniform illumination without requiring entirely custom solutions for each position, thereby managing system complexity.
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 approach results in a more uniform and controlled gradient illumination across enclosed spaces, improving lighting efficiency and safety while reducing the need for frequent bulb replacements.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting system includes a plurality of light emitting devices (LEDs) having different beam angles and/or color temperatures
Implementation Method 2
Each LED may be of a like construction and include a lens
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid lighting system featuring two types of LEDs is disclosed. One set of LEDs with lenses exists at a particular position in relation to a fixture, with a second set optionally having lenses at a different position. Each set has separate optional current control which may be adjusted in relation to each other. Advantages of the system include more even color and brightness illumination while maintaining efficiency.