Light Guide Uniformity for Linear LED Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Linear LED lighting often appears as discrete points of light, which is not suitable for all applications, and relying on diffusers to address this issue may not be effective in all cases.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light guide, such as a hollow split tube or partial light guide, that receives light from side-emitting LED light engines and selectively reduces total internal reflection to distribute light more uniformly, potentially eliminating the need for additional diffusers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a diffuser is used to distribute light uniformly, then light distribution is improved, but device complexity and additional components are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light guide function with the diffuser function into a single integrated component. The light guide structure incorporates internal features that perform both light transmission and light diffusion, eliminating the need for separate diffuser components while achieving uniform light distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guide is designed to perform multiple functions: it guides light from the LED sources, distributes light uniformly along its length, and provides structural support. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components needed in the lighting assembly.
2Ease of manufacture
If discrete LED points are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but light distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide acts as an intermediary element between the discrete LED light sources and the final light output. It receives light from the discrete LEDs and redistributes it uniformly along its length, mediating between the simple discrete source configuration and the desired uniform illumination pattern.
3Use of energy by moving object
If total internal reflection is maximized in the light guide, then light transmission efficiency is improved, but light distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide incorporates localized features such as varying refractive index regions, surface textures, or internal structures at specific positions along its length. These local modifications create controlled points where total internal reflection is selectively reduced, allowing light to escape at desired locations while maintaining high transmission efficiency in other regions.
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 light guide enhances light distribution, reducing the appearance of discrete points and providing a more uniform light output, thereby improving the versatility and effectiveness of linear LED lighting.
Implementation Method 1
The light guide may be 'interrupted' or provided with surface deformations, inclusions, or other features that selectively reduce or eliminate total internal reflection at the desired position and thereby cause the light guide to emit light at the desired position.
Implementation Method 2
it may have an index of refraction and curvature that allow the light to be directed or conducted in a particular direction and released in that direction
Data Source
AI summary
Linear lighting using light-emitting diode (LED) light engines is disclosed. The linear lighting includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with a number of LED light engines disposed on it. A light guide is disposed on the PCB adjacent to the LED light engines. The light guide accepts the light from the LED light engines in a first location and is arranged to emit the light at a desired position that is spaced from the first location. By lengthening the optical path, the light guide may spread the emitted light and provide a more uniform appearance for the linear lighting.