LED Lighting Module with Thermal Interface and Reflective Surface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting systems, such as street lights, face challenges in energy efficiency and visibility, particularly in outdoor applications, where they often require high-intensity discharge (HID) lights that are less efficient and contain hazardous materials.
Innovation Solution
A lighting module comprising a light-emitting device (LED), a thermal interface for heat management, and an optical element with a reflective surface to redirect light, enabling efficient light distribution and retrofitting of existing systems to provide improved visibility and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional HID lights are used to provide high light intensity over large areas, then illumination intensity is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates and hazardous materials are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from HID light sources to LED light sources, fundamentally changing the operating parameters and mechanism of light generation. LEDs convert electrical energy directly to light through electroluminescence, achieving higher energy efficiency while maintaining or improving light output intensity for roadway and area lighting applications
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lighting systems are used, then simplicity of design is maintained, but adaptability to different lighting requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular components: LED light sources, separate heat sink assemblies, interchangeable optical elements (lenses, reflectors), and mounting hardware. This segmentation allows different combinations of components to be assembled to meet various lighting requirements for different applications while using standardized interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal mounting structures and heat sink assemblies that can accommodate multiple LED configurations and optical elements. The standardized interfaces and modular architecture enable a single base system to serve multiple lighting applications by simply changing the LED array configuration or optical components
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 enhances energy efficiency and safety by providing a consistent and directed light distribution, reducing the need for hazardous materials and extending the lifespan of lighting systems through efficient heat management and modular design.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal interface configured to conduct heat away from the light-emitting device
Implementation Method 2
a reflective surface configured to redirect a portion of the light transmitted by the optical element
Data Source
AI summary
A street light may include a pole and a head attached to the pole. The head may include a lighting module. The lighting module may include a light-emitting device configured to emit light, a thermal interface configured to conduct heat away from the light-emitting device, an optical element configured to transmit the emitted light in a light distribution pattern on an area located a distance away from the lighting module, and a reflective surface configured to redirect a portion of the light transmitted by the optical element.