LED Optical Cavity for Linear Illumination Patterns
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light emitting diodes (LEDs) struggle to provide an efficient and cost-effective illumination distribution for rectangular pathways, often resulting in uneven and wasteful light dispersion due to their circular illumination pattern.
Innovation Solution
A compact optical system comprising a cavity and an outer surface, where the inner and outer surfaces are elongated and rotated relative to each other, processing light from LEDs to create a long, slender, or ribbon-shaped illumination distribution, effectively transforming Lambertian light into a linear pattern.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional LEDs are mounted with optical axes pointing towards the sidewalk, then the LED structure is simple and easy to install, but the illumination distribution is circular and poorly matched to the rectangular pathway geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the circular illumination pattern (2D radial symmetry) into a linear/rectangular pattern by introducing an asymmetric optical cavity structure that preferentially directs light along one dimension, matching the rectangular pathway geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the optical parameters of light emission by using a specific cavity geometry with particular aspect ratios and surface configurations to transform the Lambertian emission pattern into a directed linear pattern
2Illumination intensity
If a linear array of conventional LEDs is used to match rectangular pathway geometry, then the illumination coverage is improved, but light is wasted outside the pathway and the pattern remains splotchy and uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates locally optimized light distribution by using cavity surfaces with specific geometric features that concentrate and direct light precisely onto the pathway surface, ensuring uniform illumination where needed while preventing spillage elsewhere
3Productivity
If conventional LEDs are used for pathway lighting, then the system is simple and economical, but the circular illumination pattern does not efficiently cover rectangular pathways
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the LED light source with an integrated optical cavity structure into a single unit, where the cavity serves multiple functions: structural support, light direction, and pattern formation, thereby improving efficiency without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity
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 optical system efficiently directs light along pathways, reducing waste and providing uniform, elongated illumination, enhancing energy conservation and cost-effectiveness in lighting applications.
Implementation Method 1
light emitted by one or more light emitting diodes
Implementation Method 2
An optical element can process light emitted by a light emitting diode to form a desired illumination distribution
Data Source
AI summary
An optic can receive light from a dome of a light emitting diode and output light that, when cast upon a nearby flat surface, forms a strip of illumination. The optic can comprise a cavity that receives the light from the dome and an outer surface that emits the received light. An edge of the cavity can extend peripherally around the cavity in an oblong geometry. An edge of the outer surface can extend peripherally around the outer surface in an oblong geometry that is rotated ninety degrees relative to the oblong geometry of the cavity. A sidewall of the outer surface can comprise a region that is concave in nature or sags.