Multi-Plane Light Modifying Element for LED Fixture Pixelization
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Solution Overview
Problem
LED light fixtures using linear LED arrays face issues with pinpoint high-intensity light creating pixelization, uneven light distribution, and 'hotspots' due to the close proximity of LED arrays to the lens, leading to unpleasing visual effects and reduced luminaire efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an enclosure with side-facing LED arrays, angled LED array mounting features, and a multi-plane light modifying element with refraction features to distribute light evenly and reduce pixelization, using a clear or translucent substrate with optical film and refraction elements to alter light angles and enhance aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If linear LED arrays are placed close to the lens, then luminaire efficiency is improved, but pixelization and uneven light distribution occur
Solution Approach 1:
The light modifying element is divided into multiple planes with different orientations. The first plane is angled relative to the aperture plane, the second plane is at a different angle, creating segmented light modification zones that distribute light more uniformly while maintaining proximity to the LED arrays
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the light modifying element have different angular orientations and optical properties. The first plane and second plane are configured with different angles to address specific lighting issues in different regions, creating localized light modification that overall improves uniformity
2Productivity
If LED arrays are placed close to the lens, then luminaire efficiency is improved, but hotspots are created
Solution Approach 1:
The light modifying element segments the light path into multiple planes that redirect light from different angular zones, preventing concentration of light in specific areas and eliminating hotspots while maintaining high efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces angular dimensionality by creating planes at different orientations rather than using a single flat surface. This multi-planar approach redistributes light in the angular domain, preventing hotspot formation
3Illumination intensity
If refraction features are added to the light modifying element, then light distribution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light modifying element uses angled planar surfaces with specific orientations rather than complex curved refraction features. The first plane and second plane create light redirection through geometric orientation, achieving improved distribution with simpler manufacturing
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 configuration improves light distribution, reduces pixelization, and increases luminaire efficiency while providing a visually appealing and uniform illumination pattern, effectively addressing the challenges of LED array placement and light fixture design.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-plane light modifying element with refraction features to distribute light evenly and reduce pixelization, using a clear or translucent substrate with optical film and refraction elements to alter light angles
Data Source
AI summary
In an example embodiment, a light fixture is provided that includes an enclosure with an aperture plane and two or more linear light emitting diode (LED) arrays configured to mount within the enclosure on LED array mounting features that are oriented at an angle between about 80 degrees and about 135 degrees relative to a back surface plane of the enclosure. The light fixture may further include a lens with an axis of symmetry defining two opposing lens halves that define substantially planar outer portions and curved inner portions. The two lens halves may be configured to intersect or join in proximity to the axis of symmetry that is disposed parallel, and above or in proximity to the two or more linear LED arrays. The outer edges of the substantially planar outer lens portions are disposed in proximity to opposing edges of the aperture plane of the enclosure.