Linear Optic Array Layout for Uniform LED Grow Light PPFD
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LED grow lights suffer from hot spots and non-uniform light distribution, requiring complex and costly optics that limit LED type selection and density, and necessitate inefficient installation methods like the grid or row configurations.
Innovation Solution
A light module using a linear optic array with angularly offset linear optics, allowing for close spacing and versatile LED arrangement, enabling high uniformity and efficiency through symmetrical light distribution and reduced material costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional non-linear optics are used to distribute LED light, then a batwing optical distribution can be achieved, but the LED density and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into multiple linear optics arranged in an array, each linear optic handling a specific portion of the LED spectrum. This segmentation allows different LED types (e.g., blue LEDs with phosphors, red LEDs) to be positioned closely together under separate linear optics, increasing overall LED density and versatility without compromising optical performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-point or small-area optics to extended linear optics that span multiple dimensions. This dimensional expansion allows for closer spacing between LEDs of different wavelengths while maintaining proper optical distribution, effectively increasing the quantity of LEDs that can be integrated into a single fixture.
2Quantity of substance
If LEDs are placed close together under a single non-linear optic, then LED density increases, but the optical distribution becomes non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the optical function across multiple linear optics rather than using a single optic for all LEDs, the patent maintains uniform light distribution. Each linear optic is optimized for its specific LED subset, preventing the hot spots and non-uniformity that would result from placing all LEDs under one optic.
Solution Approach 2:
Each linear optic in the array is designed with specific optical properties tailored to the particular LEDs it covers. This local optimization ensures that each region of the plant canopy receives uniform light distribution from its corresponding linear optic, while the collective array provides comprehensive coverage.
3Illumination intensity
If the grid method is used to place LED arrays, then hot spots are avoided, but the installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple linear optics into a single integrated array that can be installed as one unit. This consolidation eliminates the need for complex grid or row configurations, reducing installation complexity while maintaining uniform light distribution. The linear optic array can be positioned directly over the plant canopy, simplifying the overall installation process.
4Illumination intensity
If multiple rows of fixtures are used to span the plant canopy, then irradiance uniformity improves, but the upfront fixture and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple linear optics into a single integrated array fixture that provides uniform irradiance across the entire plant canopy. This single-unit design eliminates the need for multiple separate rows of fixtures, reducing both the number of components and the overall cost while maintaining the irradiance uniformity that would otherwise require complex multi-row installations.
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 solution provides high uniformity of Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) with improved light transmission, reducing hot spots and installation costs, and enabling flexible LED configurations for optimal plant canopy coverage.
Implementation Method 1
LED grow lights use refractive optical elements, optics, to distribute light from LEDs in order to achieve a desired batwing optical distribution
Data Source
AI summary
A light module 1 for use in a LED grow light 201 comprising a linear optic array 5 with a plurality of linear optics 3. The plurality of linear optics 3 comprises at least one first linear optic 3a and at least one second linear optic 3b. Each linear optic 3 has a wall 13 which defines at least in part a LED housing void 19 located within which is a plurality of LEDs 9. The wall 13 has a light shaping portion 18 that is located adjacent to the plurality of LEDs 9. The at least one first linear optic 3a has a first longitudinal axis X-X and the at least one second linear optic 3b has a second longitudinal axis Y-Y, wherein the first longitudinal axis X-X and the second longitudinal axis Y-Y are offset from each other by an angular offset of α degrees.