Configurable Lighting Device with Optical Modulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust light beam distribution, requiring multiple fixtures for different applications and offering only coarse control through mechanical adjustments, which is not suitable for general lighting needs.
Innovation Solution
A software-configurable lighting device featuring a light source, a controllable optical modulator, and multiple lenses, where the optical modulator steers and shapes the light to achieve a selected distribution, allowing for precise adjustment of light output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple luminaires are provided to meet different lighting applications, then the lighting distribution requirements are satisfied, but the device complexity and quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single luminaire that can perform multiple lighting distribution functions by integrating an array of independently controllable light engines, each capable of producing different beam distributions (e.g., spot, flood, accent) through electronic control of LED modules and optical elements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fixtures
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamically adjustable optical elements including electro-optic modulators and mechanically adjustable lenses that can change beam distribution patterns in real-time based on control signals, allowing a single fixture to adapt to different lighting scenarios rather than requiring fixed, application-specific luminaires
2Ease of operation
If mechanically adjustable lenses and irises are used, then the light beam shape and direction can be adjusted, but the control precision and suitability for general lighting are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces coarse mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronically controlled optical modulators and programmable LED arrays that provide precise, programmable control over beam distribution patterns, enabling fine-grained adjustment of light intensity and direction that is not achievable with manual mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The luminaire is divided into multiple independently controllable light engines or LED modules, each capable of individual addressable control, allowing precise spatial distribution control where specific zones or beams can be adjusted independently rather than requiring overall mechanical adjustment of the entire fixture
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 precise control over light distribution, emulating various lighting scenarios without the need for multiple fixtures, enhancing the versatility and effectiveness of lighting solutions for general illumination applications.
Implementation Method 1
The controllable optical modulator is coupled to receive and spatially modulate light redirected by the first lens
Implementation Method 2
The first lens is coupled to receive and redirect light output from the source. The second lenses are positioned to receive the light redirected by the first lens
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable lighting device may include a light source, a first lens, one or more second lenses, and a controllable optical modulator. The first lens is coupled to receive and redirect light output from the source. The second lenses are positioned to receive the light redirected by the first lens. The controllable optical modulator is between the first and second lenses. The controllable optical modulator is coupled to receive and spatially modulate light redirected by the first lens. The one or more second lenses are coupled to receive and redirect light modulated by the controllable optical modulator. The optical modulator is selectively controllable to steer and/or shape the light redirected by the first lens to a selected distribution of the light on the one or more second lenses.