Software Configurable Lighting Device Beam Steering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional lighting devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust light beam distributions and appearances, requiring multiple fixtures for different applications and failing to provide both effective general illumination and image display capabilities efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A software-configurable lighting device incorporating a memory, controllable light sources, a beam steering reflector, and a processor that uses programming code to control light output parameters and beam direction, allowing for simultaneous image display and general illumination through a projection or waveguide arrangement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple luminaires with different optical distributions are provided to meet different lighting applications, then the adaptability and versatility of lighting solutions is improved, but the device complexity and quantity of fixtures required increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelighting distribution adaptabilityVSAvoidnumber of fixtures

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single luminaire that can perform multiple lighting distribution functions by integrating an adjustable electro-optic component (such as a liquid crystal lens or variable focus lens) that can dynamically change the optical distribution pattern. This allows one fixture to replace multiple fixed-distribution luminaires, providing universal adaptability across different lighting applications including spot lighting, flood lighting, and ambient lighting modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamically adjustable optical components that can change the light beam distribution in real-time based on control signals. The electro-optic lens or liquid crystal element can be electrically controlled to adjust focal length, beam angle, and distribution pattern, enabling the luminaire to adapt its optical characteristics dynamically rather than being fixed at manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If mechanically adjustable lenses and irises are used to enable selectable adjustment of output light beam shape, then the ease of operation for beam shaping is improved, but the device complexity and suitability for general lighting is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeam shape adjustmentVSAvoidmechanical adjustment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms (manual lenses, irises, gimbals) with electro-optic components that can be controlled electrically. Instead of physically moving mechanical parts to change beam shape, the system uses voltage-controlled liquid crystal elements or electro-optic lenses that change their optical properties through electrical signals, eliminating complex mechanical structures while maintaining ease of operation through electronic control interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If displays or display-like devices are used to provide variable lighting, then the adaptability for different appearances is improved, but the illumination efficiency and general lighting performance is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveappearance variabilityVSAvoidillumination efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a hybrid system that combines display capabilities with efficient general lighting functions. The luminaire can operate in display mode where the panel shows images or patterns, and in lighting mode where the same panel acts as an efficient light distributor. The system intelligently switches between or combines these functions, allowing the display panel to serve dual purposes: visual display and optical distribution for illumination, thereby maintaining energy efficiency while providing appearance variability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 flexible and efficient adjustment of light distributions and appearances, emulating various lighting fixtures while providing effective general illumination and image display, reducing the need for multiple fixtures and improving aesthetic and performance capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a controllable beam steering reflector (420) having a movable reflective surface optically aligned with the light source

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a controllable, light output panel (440) that is optically coupled to the movable reflective surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS10404955B2Projection and/or waveguide arrangements for a software configurable lighting device

Publication Date: 2019.09.03 ABL IP HLDG LLC

AI summary

The examples relate to various implementations of a software configurable lighting device utilizing a projection and/or waveguide-based lighting system that offers the capability to present an image display and/or provide general illumination lighting of a space according to an image display selection and/or general illumination distribution selection. A controller generates control signals that cause the projection and/or waveguide-based lighting system to output the selected images and general illumination.