Multi-Region Reflector Lighting Device for Obscuration Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional back-reflecting lamps suffer from significant light loss due to the light source being suspended over the reflector, obscuring a portion of it, and the inclusion of a bridge further reduces light output, especially for larger light sources where the light source is no longer a point source, limiting the generation of tightly focused beams.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a lighting device with a reflector comprising three distinct regions: a first region below the light source to redirect obscured light, a second region to direct unobscured light, and a third region to redirect light in a parallel path, allowing for the utilization of previously lost light while maintaining a tight focused beam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a light source is suspended over the reflector in a conventional back-reflecting lamp, then the light source can be positioned to emit light toward the reflector, but the light source obscures a portion of the reflector causing significant light loss
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is divided into three distinct regions: a first region below the light source to redirect obscured light, a second region to direct unobscured light, and a third region to redirect light in a parallel path. This segmentation allows each region to perform a specific function, maximizing light utilization while avoiding obscuration losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to light redirection by positioning the first reflector region below the light source and using it to redirect obscured light upward to the third region. This multi-level spatial arrangement allows light to be captured and redirected from dimensions that would otherwise be blocked.
2Reliability
If a bridge is included to support the light source, then the light source can be securely positioned, but the bridge further obscures portions of the reflector reducing light output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light source mounting from the traditional bridge structure and relocates it to the side wall of the reflector housing. This removes the bridge from the optical path, eliminating the obscuration it caused while maintaining secure light source positioning through alternative mounting arrangements.
3Quantity of substance
If larger-sized light sources are used, then more light can be emitted, but the light source is no longer a point source limiting the generation of tightly focused beams
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the reflector are given different optical profiles optimized for their specific functions. The first region has a profile to redirect obscured light, the second region has a profile to direct unobscured light, and the third region has a profile to redirect light in a parallel path. This local optimization allows tight beam focus even with extended light sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflector regions utilize curved surfaces with specific profiles to focus and redirect light. The parabolic and elliptical curves in the different regions work together to maintain beam concentration by properly directing light rays from different parts of the extended source through focused reflection paths.
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 significantly reduces light loss and enables the generation of tightly focused beams, with at least 90% of the light reflected by the second region and 5% of the first portion of light being within the primary beam, enhancing the overall light output and beam concentration.
Implementation Method 1
a first portion of light emitted by the light source is reflected by the first reflector region and then by the third reflector region, a second portion of light emitted by the light source is reflected by the second reflector region
Data Source
AI summary
Lighting devices that comprise a light source (31) and a reflector (32), the reflector comprising first, second and third reflector regions (32a-c). In some devices, a first portion of light is reflected by the first region (32a) and then by the third reflector region (32c), a second portion (32b) of light is reflected by the second region and forms a primary beam, and at least 5% of the first portion of light that is reflected by the third region is within the primary beam of light. In some devices, at least 5% of all light reflected by the first reflector region travels from the first reflector region directly to the third reflector region. In some devices, at least 5% of all light reflected by the third reflector region traveled directly from the first reflector region to the third reflector region. In some devices, the reflector comprises means for providing the features described above.