Microprism Diffusers for Uniform 2D Batwing Illumination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting systems struggle to achieve uniform illumination of large areas using Lambertian light sources, leading to hot spots and inefficient energy use, and existing solutions for batwing distributions are costly, complex, or inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A light transmissive structure with microprism elements on a substrate that converts Lambertian light distribution into a 2D batwing distribution, using microprisms and optional diffusion features to achieve uniform illumination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If Lambertian light distribution is used, then the light source structure is simple, but the illumination uniformity deteriorates with hot spots appearing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight source structureVSAvoidillumination uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

A microprism array is introduced as an intermediary optical element between the Lambertian light source and the illuminated surface. The microprisms refract and redirect light rays to achieve uniform illumination distribution while maintaining the simplicity of the original Lambertian light source structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the optical parameters of light propagation by using microprisms with specific refractive indices and geometric configurations. By adjusting prism angles, heights, and spacing, the light distribution pattern is transformed from Lambertian to uniform without changing the light source itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Illumination intensity

If conventional batwing distribution solutions are used, then illumination uniformity is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveillumination uniformityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a simple microprism array that can be manufactured using conventional low-cost techniques such as injection molding or embossing. This replaces complex and expensive optical systems while achieving the desired batwing light distribution pattern.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

By carefully selecting microprism geometric parameters (angles, heights, spacing) and material refractive indices, the patent achieves batwing distribution through simple refractive optics rather than complex reflective or multi-element optical systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If Lambertian distribution is used, then fewer optical elements are needed, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to hot spots

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of optical elementsVSAvoidenergy waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The microprism array serves as an efficient intermediary that redistributes light energy uniformly across the target surface. This eliminates hot spots and ensures that all emitted light contributes usefully to illumination, maximizing energy efficiency with minimal additional optical elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 efficient and cost-effective uniform illumination across large areas by reducing hot spots and minimizing energy waste, while maintaining a desirable lighting pattern.

Implementation Method 1

A light transmissive structure with microprism elements on a substrate that converts Lambertian light distribution into a 2D batwing distribution

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentEP3146261B1Microstructure-based diffusers for creating batwing lighting patterns
Publication Date: 2025.11.05 BRIGHT VIEW TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • EP3146261B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3146261B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B
  • EP3146261B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A light transmissive structure includes a light transmissive substrate having first and second opposing faces and array of microprism elements on the first face. A respective microprism element includes at least one ring comprising a plurality of microstructure pyramids that is rotated randomly and/or pseudorandomly on the first face about an axis that is orthogonal to the substrate relative to at least one other microprism element. The light transmissive structure is configured to receive light from a light source facing the first face and distribute the light emerging from the second face in a 2D batwing distribution.