Inclined Planar Optics for Recessed Light Fixture Shadow Reduction
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional recessed light fixtures lack efficient light distribution and aesthetic appeal due to uniform light emission, which can result in harsh shadows and unattractive visual effects.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates two or more inclined planar optics, such as LED edge-lit panels, positioned on either side of a housing with an intermediate portion, allowing light to be directed through a light emission opening in a manner that creates a more even and aesthetically pleasing illumination pattern by varying the inclination of the panels relative to the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional recessed light fixtures use uniform light emission, then the structure is simple, but the light distribution is poor and creates harsh shadows
Solution Approach 1:
The light fixture is divided into multiple light emitters (first light emitter, second light emitter, third light emitter) positioned at different locations within the housing. Each emitter serves a specific function: the first provides ambient light, the second provides accent light, and the third provides task light. This segmentation allows for differentiated light distribution patterns that eliminate harsh shadows while maintaining a manageable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the light fixture are assigned different optical properties and functions. The first light emitter is positioned to provide ambient illumination, the second light emitter is positioned to create accent lighting effects, and the third light emitter is positioned for task lighting. This local differentiation of light quality and function improves overall light distribution without requiring complete redesign of the entire fixture structure.
2Illumination intensity
If conventional recessed light fixtures use uniform light emission, then the manufacturing is simple, but the aesthetic appeal is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture is manufactured as an integrated housing containing multiple separately positioned light emitters with different optical characteristics. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of the housing structure while enabling varied illumination patterns through the strategic positioning and configuration of individual light emitter components, balancing aesthetic appeal with manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is designed to accommodate multiple types of light emitters (ambient, accent, and task lighting) within a single fixture assembly. This multi-functionality allows the same basic housing design to produce varied illumination patterns and aesthetic effects, improving illumination quality without requiring multiple different fixture designs or complicating the manufacturing process.
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 configuration enhances light distribution by reducing harsh shadows and provides a more uniform, visually appealing illumination, improving both functionality and aesthetics of the recessed light fixture.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light emitters supported on the housing
Implementation Method 2
Each of the panels is oriented in an inclined plane relative to the light emission opening
Data Source
AI summary
A light fixture includes a housing configured to be secured to a support surface, a plurality of light emitters supported on the housing, and a pair of panels supported on the housing. The housing includes a first end, a second end, a pair of sides extending between the first end and the second end, and an intermediate portion positioned between the pair of sides and oriented in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis. The housing includes a light emission opening through which light is directed. The panels are positioned on opposite sides of the intermediate portion from one another. Each of the panels is oriented in an inclined plane relative to the light emission opening. Each of the panels includes an outer edge positioned adjacent one of the sides of the housing, and an inner edge positioned adjacent the intermediate portion.