LED Light-Spreading Lens Using Total Internal Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting systems in refrigeration units fail to provide uniform and efficient light distribution, leading to inefficiencies in illuminating contents within the units.
Innovation Solution
The use of lens elements with a revolved geometry that applies total internal reflection to light rays emitted by LEDs, improving light spreading efficiency and uniformity, and potentially reducing material usage and color separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional lens elements with uniform cross-sectional profile are used, then light can be transmitted through the lens, but light distribution is non-uniform and light-spreading efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The lens element employs varying cross-sectional profiles along its length, where different sections have different refractive geometries. This local variation in lens geometry creates zones with different light-bending characteristics, achieving uniform light distribution across the illuminated area while maintaining high light-spreading efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens element is divided into multiple longitudinal sections, each with a distinct cross-sectional profile optimized for specific light redirection functions. This segmentation allows different portions of the lens to handle different aspects of light distribution, collectively achieving both uniformity and efficiency.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional lens elements are used, then light transmission is achieved, but material usage is excessive and sealing is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The lens element is designed as an array of discrete, segmented optical elements rather than a single large monolithic lens. This segmentation reduces total material consumption and creates individual units that are easier to seal and install in modular fashion.
Solution Approach 2:
The lens structure transitions from a traditional two-dimensional surface to a three-dimensional array of prismatic elements. This dimensional change allows light to be redirected through multiple faces and angles, achieving superior light distribution with less material and simpler sealing 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 solution provides a more efficient and uniform light distribution in refrigeration units and other applications, resulting in energy savings and improved illumination, while using less material and being easier to seal compared to conventional lenses.
Implementation Method 1
The lens element is operative to apply total internal reflection to at least some light rays emitted from the LED
Implementation Method 2
Part of the light-spreading characteristic of the lens element 100 is due to refraction of rays 202, 204, 206
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting device includes a light emitting diode (LED) that has a main axis of light emission. The lighting device also includes a lens element positioned adjacent the LED. The lens element has a geometry defined by at least partial revolution of a cross-sectional profile around an axis of revolution. The lens element is positioned relative to the LED such that the axis of revolution crosses the main axis of light emission of the LED. The lens element is operative to apply total internal reflection to at least some light rays emitted from the LED.