Retrofit Lighting Device with Laser and Holographic Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing accent lighting solutions for smaller venues are limited by their dimmer capabilities and monochromatic options, often requiring costly special equipment and extensive rewiring for more sophisticated lighting systems.

Innovation Solution

A retrofit lighting device featuring a coherent light source, such as a diode pumped solid state laser, integrated with a holographic optical element and a switched-mode power supply, which can be adapted to project a star field of pin-point lights and offer dimming capabilities, compatible with pre-existing light fixtures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional accent lighting systems are used in smaller venues, then the lighting can be implemented with simple equipment, but the lighting effects are limited to dimmer capabilities and monochromatic options

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting effects versatilityVSAvoidequipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple lighting functions into a single device by integrating a coherent light source, holographic optical element, and switched-mode power supply into one retrofitable unit. This merging allows the device to provide both traditional dimming capabilities and advanced effects like star field projections, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting device is designed with universal adaptability to retrofit into various pre-existing light fixtures through different mounting configurations. The single device can produce multiple lighting effects including star fields, pin-point lights, and traditional accent lighting, making it suitable for diverse applications in smaller venues without requiring specialized equipment for each effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If sophisticated lighting systems are installed in smaller venues, then advanced lighting effects can be achieved, but extensive electrical rewiring and special equipment are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting effects versatilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the sophisticated lighting system into a self-contained module that can be independently installed. By segmenting the system into discrete components (light source, optical element, power supply) housed in a single unit, the device can be retrofitted into existing fixtures without requiring extensive rewiring or structural modifications to the venue's electrical infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention acts as an intermediary device that bridges between simple existing light fixtures and sophisticated lighting effects. The retrofitable design serves as a mediator, allowing advanced coherent light effects to be introduced into traditional lighting infrastructure without requiring direct integration with the building's electrical system or extensive installation work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If traditional lighting systems are used, then the installation is simple and cost-effective, but energy efficiency and advanced effects are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidlighting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a switched-mode power supply that efficiently converts electrical power to suit the coherent light source requirements. This parameter change in power conversion methodology significantly improves energy efficiency compared to traditional lighting systems. The device maintains relatively simple installation while achieving superior energy performance through optimized electrical parameters and efficient power management circuitry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 cost-effective and energy-efficient way to enhance lighting in smaller venues with advanced, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing effects, such as a star field, without the need for extensive rewiring, offering improved performance over traditional accent lighting systems.

Implementation Method 1

a coherent light source, such as a diode pumped solid state laser

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

a holographic optical element positioned within a light pathway of the coherent light source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffraction: Diffraction

Implementation Method 3

a switched-mode power supply (SMPS) in electrical communication with the coherent light source to supply power thereto

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSwitched-mode power conversion:

Implementation Method 4

a first heatsink positioned about the housing... a second heatsink having a first recess to situate the plate therein and a second recess to house the SMPS

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat dissipation: Heat Sink

Data Source

PatentUS10145515B2Lighting device for accent lighting and method
Publication Date: 2018.12.04 BLISSLIGHTS LLC
  • US10145515B2 patent drawing
  • US10145515B2 patent drawing
  • US10145515B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of invention are directed to a lighting device for use in accent lighting applications. In one embodiment, the lighting device includes a coherent light source, such as a laser, and a diffractive optical element. The diffractive optical element may be, for example, a holographic optical element. The lighting device may be adapted to retrofit into a pre-existing light fixture. In one application, the lighting device may project a static or movable star field and/or static or movable clouds.