Intersecting Surface Reflector for Uniform LED Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional solid state lighting devices with densely mounted LEDs or high reflectivity diffusers face challenges in achieving uniform light distribution with high optical efficiency, leading to increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A reflector device with intersecting surface portions that redirect light emitted by LEDs, allowing for less dense mounting and increased freedom in positioning, while ensuring uniform light output through diffuse reflection and reduced shadow effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If solid state light emitting elements are densely mounted to achieve uniform light distribution, then light uniformity is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from mounting LEDs on a linear carrier to mounting them on a two-dimensional reflector surface. The reflector has first and second surface portions that extend in planes intersecting at an angle, creating a V-shaped groove configuration. This dimensional change allows LEDs to be spaced further apart while still achieving uniform light distribution through reflection geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflector acts as an intermediary between the LEDs and the surrounding environment. Instead of LEDs directly illuminating the space, light from the LEDs is reflected by the reflector surfaces. This intermediary mechanism redistributes light more evenly, allowing fewer LEDs to achieve the same uniformity effect that would require densely packed LEDs without a reflector.
2Illumination intensity
If a light diffuser with high reflectivity is used to achieve uniform light distribution, then light uniformity is improved, but optical efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector employs different surface qualities in different locations. The first and second surface portions have different orientations and reflect light in different directions. This local differentiation of surface properties allows the system to achieve uniform light distribution through geometric arrangement rather than relying on high reflectivity materials, thereby maintaining optical efficiency.
3Area of stationary object
If solid state light emitting elements are positioned at the edge to maximize reflector surface area, then reflector efficiency is improved, but shadow effects increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions LEDs asymmetrically within the V-shaped groove formed by the first and second surface portions. Rather than placing LEDs at the extreme edges, they are positioned at specific distances from the free side edges. This asymmetric positioning optimizes the balance between utilizing reflector surface area and avoiding shadow effects by ensuring LEDs do not block light paths to certain regions.
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 enables a homogeneous light output with high optical efficiency at reduced costs by allowing for larger spacing between LEDs and minimizing shadow effects, while maintaining uniformity and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the light is being more diverged before being outlet to the surrounding environment... The mounting of the at least one solid state light emitting element together with the emission direction of the generated light ensures that the generated light, or at least a major part of it, leaves the reflector after being reflected at least once by the reflector
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a reflector device is disclosed. In one example, the reflector device comprises a reflector having a plus-shaped cross section, and at least one solid state light emitting element. The reflector may comprise at least a first and a second surface portions, which extend in planes intersecting at an angle, said at least one solid state light emitting element being mounted to one of said first surface portion or said second surface portion.