LED Light Redistribution Using Bulk Matrix with Embedded Particles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid-state LEDs emit light in a directional Lambertian pattern, which is not suitable for replacing incandescent bulbs in applications requiring a quasi-isotropic light distribution, such as table top lighting, where the light is directed towards the ceiling rather than the work surface.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus using a bulk matrix material with embedded diffusing and scattering particles is employed to redistribute the light emitted from LEDs, simulating a quasi-isotropic distribution pattern similar to incandescent bulbs by controlling the concentration of these particles within the material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If surface-mount LEDs are used for general lighting applications, then energy efficiency and lifetime are improved, but light distribution pattern becomes directional (Lambertian) rather than quasi-isotropic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical element as an intermediary component between the LED light source and the environment. This optical element contains suspended diffusing and scattering particles that mediate the transformation of directional Lambertian light into quasi-isotropic light distribution, enabling LEDs to replace incandescent bulbs in applications requiring omnidirectional light emission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the light by introducing particles with specific optical properties into the optical element. By controlling the concentration, size, and type of diffusing and scattering particles, the light distribution pattern is transformed from directional to quasi-isotropic while maintaining the energy efficiency benefits of LED technology.
2Loss of energy
If surface-mount LEDs are used for general lighting applications, then energy efficiency and lifetime are improved, but light is directed towards the ceiling rather than the work surface
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element acts as a mediator that redirects the light path. The suspended particles within the optical element scatter and diffuse the light in multiple directions, ensuring that adequate illumination reaches the work surface below rather than being directed upward toward the ceiling, thus making LEDs suitable for table top lighting applications.
3Shape
If an optical element with suspended particles is used to redistribute light, then quasi-isotropic light distribution is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single optical element. The same optical element simultaneously performs light capture, diffusion, scattering, and angular redistribution, eliminating the need for multiple separate components and reducing overall device complexity despite the sophisticated light manipulation required.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element utilizes a matrix material with suspended particles, creating a porous or composite structure that enables light redistribution. This approach achieves complex optical functionality through material composition rather than mechanical complexity, simplifying the overall device design.
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 apparatus effectively tunes the angular emission of LEDs to achieve a uniform light distribution, mimicking the isotropic pattern of incandescent bulbs, enhancing the usability of LEDs in various lighting applications by ensuring light is directed downwards, thus providing adequate illumination on a work surface.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus is made from a bulk matrix material that can have two different types of particles embedded within the material, diffusing particles and scattering particles
Implementation Method 2
diffusing particles and scattering particles embedded within the material, By varying the concentrations of the two types of particles, the angular emission of the redistributed light can be tuned
Data Source
AI summary
A system for re-distributing light emitted from a light source using an optical element is described. The optical element is manufactured using a bulk matrix material, and diffusing particles and/or scattering particles are embedded within the bulk material. The optical element is coupled to the light source to capture emitted light and redistribute the light in a desired angular distribution pattern depending on the ratio of total weight of diffusing particles to total weight of scattering particles.