LED Beacon Optics with Curved Reflector Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beacon lights are inefficient in energy use, contribute to light pollution, and are too large and heavy for easy installation, limiting their effectiveness and usability, especially in aircraft obstruction applications.
Innovation Solution
A beacon light design featuring a light-emitting diode (LED) optic with a first reflector above the LED plane having a curved cross-section, a second reflector positioned above, and a lens below the LED plane to collimate light, optimizing light distribution and reducing waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single reflector is used to simplify the device structure, then device complexity is reduced, but light utilization efficiency deteriorates because not all emitted light is reflected and collimated
Solution Approach 1:
The single reflector is divided into two separate reflectors: a first reflector positioned to receive light from the LED and a second reflector positioned to receive light from the first reflector. This segmentation allows each reflector to be optimized for its specific function, thereby improving overall light utilization efficiency while maintaining manageable device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-dimensional light path configuration where light travels through multiple stages (LED → first reflector → second reflector → lens). This dimensional expansion of the optical path enables more complete light capture and collimation compared to a single-planar reflector approach
2Illumination intensity
If traditional beacon light designs are used to ensure adequate light output, then illumination intensity is sufficient, but energy efficiency deteriorates and light pollution increases due to light emitted at undesirable angles
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed with different components optimized for specific local functions: the first reflector captures light at certain angles, the second reflector further directs the light, and the lens collimates the final beam. This localized optimization ensures that light is directed precisely where needed (upward for obstruction warning) while minimizing energy waste and light pollution at other angles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts what would otherwise be wasted light (emitted at various angles from the LED) into useful collimated light through the multi-stage reflector and lens system. Light that might have been emitted at undesirable angles is captured and redirected into the desired upward beam, transforming potential light pollution into beneficial illumination
3Illumination intensity
If traditional beacon lights are designed with sufficient power to ensure visibility, then illumination intensity is adequate, but device weight and size increase making them too heavy for climbers to carry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional high-power incandescent or halogen lighting systems with LED technology combined with an optimized optical system. LEDs provide sufficient illumination intensity while consuming significantly less power and generating less heat, thereby reducing the overall weight and size of the beacon device while maintaining adequate visibility for obstruction warning
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental operating parameters of the light source by using LEDs with specific characteristics (low power consumption, long lifetime, compact size) combined with an optical system that maximizes light utilization. This parameter change enables adequate beacon performance with dramatically reduced weight and power requirements
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 design enhances energy efficiency, reduces light pollution, and allows for smaller, lighter devices that can be powered by solar energy, providing effective obstruction warning with improved light utilization and reduced size and weight.
Implementation Method 1
at least one lens positioned below the LED plane, where the at least one lens collimates light emitted from the at least one LED and reflected off of the at least one second reflector
Implementation Method 2
a first reflector positioned above the LED plane and comprising a curved cross-section... and at least one second reflector positioned above the LED plane
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention is directed to a beacon light with a light emitting diode (LED) optic. In one embodiment, the LED optic includes at least one LED comprising an LED plane, a first reflector positioned above the LED plane and comprising a curved cross-section, wherein the at least one LED is positioned approximately 90 degrees with respect to an optical axis of the first reflector and at least one second reflector positioned above the LED plane.