Light Source Lens Structure for Selective Directional Irradiation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing light source devices lack the ability to selectively irradiate light in a desired direction, limiting their flexibility and functionality.

Innovation Solution

A light source device comprising a plurality of independently operable light emitting devices, a first lens with a light guide part, and a second lens with a Fresnel lens face, allowing for controlled light distribution and directionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a simple light source device without directional control is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to selectively irradiate light in desired directions is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselective irradiation capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The light source device divides the light emitting area into multiple independently controllable light emitting devices arranged in a matrix pattern. Each light emitting device can be controlled independently to irradiate light in specific directions, enabling selective illumination without requiring complex mechanical or optical switching mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A light guide part is introduced as an intermediary component between the light emitting devices and the external environment. This light guide part guides and directs light from the light emitting devices to achieve desired irradiation directions while maintaining a simple overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If light emitting devices are made visible for directional control, then selective irradiation is enabled, but the external appearance is degraded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirectional light controlVSAvoidexternal appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The light guide part serves as a mediator that transmits light from the light emitting devices while hiding their physical presence from external view. This allows directional light control to be achieved without making the light emitting devices visually apparent, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The light guide part can be implemented as a thin, transparent component that allows light transmission while being imperceptible from the outside. This maintains the sleek appearance of the device while enabling functional directional control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Length of moving object

If traditional lens structures are used, then light distribution is achieved, but device thickness cannot be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice thicknessVSAvoidlight distribution control
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a single thick lens for light distribution, the system segments the light control function across multiple thin light emitting devices arranged in a matrix. Each device contributes to the overall light distribution pattern, achieving effective illumination control with minimal thickness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical lens systems with a matrix of light emitting devices that can be individually controlled. This substitution eliminates the need for thick lens structures while maintaining or improving light distribution capabilities through electronic control of individual emitters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables selective irradiation of light in desired directions, improving flexibility and reducing the visibility of light emitting devices, thereby enhancing the external appearance and reducing device thickness.

Implementation Method 1

a light guide part provided on an outside of the entrance part to guide light entering the entrance part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight guidance: Waveguide (optics)

Implementation Method 2

A lower face of the second lens facing the first lens includes a Fresnel lens face composed of a plurality of annular protruding portions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS12352426B2Light source device
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 NICHIA CORP
  • US12352426B2 patent drawing
  • US12352426B2 patent drawing
  • US12352426B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A light source device includes: a plurality of independently operable light emitting devices; a first lens having a lower face that faces the light emitting devices, and an upper face opposite the lower face. The lower face of the first lens includes: an entrance part located in a center of the lower face where light from the light emitting devices enters, and a light guide part located outward of the entrance part and configured to guide the light entering the entrance part. The upper face of the first lens comprises a plurality of annular protruding portions.