Lighting device with efficient light-spreading lens system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting systems in refrigeration units fail to provide uniform and efficient light distribution, leading to inefficiencies in illuminating contents within the units.
Innovation Solution
The use of individually designed lens elements with a revolved geometry that applies total internal reflection (TIR) to enhance light spreading, specifically for each LED in the lighting device, improving light distribution and efficiency compared to conventional systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional lens elements with uniform cross-sectional profile are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the light distribution is non-uniform and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lens element is divided into multiple sections along its length, with each section having a different cross-sectional profile optimized for specific light distribution requirements. This segmentation allows uniform light distribution across different zones while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the lens element are given different optical properties through varying cross-sectional profiles. The lens includes sections with different refractive characteristics tailored to specific spatial zones, enabling optimized light distribution in different directions and areas.
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional lens elements are used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but energy efficiency in light spreading is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The lens element incorporates curved and rounded cross-sectional profiles rather than sharp angular shapes. These smooth curved surfaces optimize light refraction and reflection patterns, improving light spreading efficiency while remaining compatible with conventional injection molding manufacturing processes.
3Productivity
If simple uniform lens profiles are used, then material usage is minimized, but light spreading efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lens element employs varying cross-sectional dimensions along its length, with some sections having larger profiles to handle specific light distribution requirements. This partial enhancement of material presence in critical zones achieves superior light spreading efficiency without excessive overall material consumption.
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
This approach results in a more uniform and efficient light distribution within refrigeration units, potentially reducing energy consumption and material usage while minimizing color separation, and is adaptable for various lighting applications beyond refrigerators.
Implementation Method 1
Part of the light-spreading characteristic of the lens element 100 is due to refraction of rays 202, 204, 206.
Implementation Method 2
as to rays, 208, 210, the same are first subjected to internal reflection (at points 212, 214, respectively) before being refracted and exiting the lens element 100
Data Source
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AI summary
A lighting device includes a light emitting diode (LED) (506) that has a main axis of light emission (508). The lighting device also includes a lens element (304) positioned adjacent the LED (506). The lens element (304) has a geometry defined by at least partial revolution of a cross-sectional profile around an axis of revolution (504). The lens element (304) is positioned relative to the LED (506) such that the axis of revolution (504) crosses the main axis of light emission (508) of the LED (506). The lens element (304) is operative to apply total internal reflection to at least some light rays emitted from the LED (506).