Multi-wavelength Light Assembly Using Extraction and Scattering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light assemblies that emit light at different wavelengths are inefficient due to the use of filters or complex mechanical assemblies, and pose eye safety hazards with highly collimated laser beams.
Innovation Solution
A light assembly that includes a reflector with a focal point, where a first light source generates a collimated beam at a first wavelength, and one or more second light sources direct different wavelength beams towards the focal point, with a light scattering member to scatter and expand the beams, making them safer for viewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If filters are positioned in front of a light source to emit light at different wavelengths, then different colored lights can be emitted, but the efficiency is reduced and mechanical assemblies are required to move filters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the filtering function from the optical path by using separate LED sources for each wavelength, eliminating the need for physical filters and their mechanical positioning systems. Each LED emits its characteristic wavelength directly without requiring filter insertion or movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflector serves multiple functions: it directs light from different LED sources, focuses light onto the scattering member, and works with all wavelength combinations. This single optical component handles all wavelength selections without requiring wavelength-specific adjustments or additional mechanical systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If filters are positioned in front of a light source to emit light at different wavelengths, then different colored lights can be emitted, but cost and complexity are added due to mechanical assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the mechanical filter positioning system entirely by extracting the wavelength selection function to the LED source level. Each LED inherently emits a specific wavelength range, eliminating the need for mechanical assemblies to move filters into and out of position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical filter positioning system with an electronic control system that selectively activates different LED sources. This substitution eliminates moving parts, mechanical assemblies, and their associated complexity while maintaining wavelength selection capability.
3Productivity
If highly collimated laser beams are used to emit light at different wavelengths, then efficient light emission is achieved, but eye safety hazards arise due to the collimated nature of the beams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful highly collimated laser beam into a beneficial expanded beam by passing it through a scattering member. The scattering member diffuses the concentrated light into a wider, less intense beam that maintains efficiency while eliminating the eye safety hazard of highly collimated light.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial distribution parameter of the light beam by introducing a scattering member. This transforms the beam from a highly collimated, concentrated state to an expanded, diffused state, altering the intensity distribution to reduce eye safety hazards while preserving the light emission efficiency.
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 efficient emission of light at multiple wavelengths using the same optics, reducing complexity and eliminating eye hazards by converting focused laser beams into safer, expanded collimated beams.
Implementation Method 1
A first light source is configured to generate a first light at a first wavelength proximate to the focal point during a first illumination mode. The first light reflects off the reflector as a first collimated beam at the first wavelength.
Implementation Method 2
a light scattering member positioned at the focal point. The light scattering beam scatters the second light beam(s). The second collimated beam(s) may be expanded in relation to the second light bearn(s) as emitted from the second light source(s).
Data Source
AI summary
A light assembly may include a reflector having a focal point in space, and a first light source configured to generate a first light at a first wavelength proximate to the focal point during a first illumination mode. The first light reflects off the reflector as a first collimated beam at the first wavelength. One or more second light sources are configured to direct one or more second light beams at one or more different wavelengths towards the focal point during a second illumination mode. The different wavelength(s) differ from the first wavelength. At least a portion of the second light beam(s) reflects off the reflector as one or more second collimated beams at the different wavelength(s).