Compact Omnidirectional LED Light with Smooth Lens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beacon lights using Fresnel lenses with high-power LEDs suffer from optical inefficiencies and surface dirt/ice accumulation due to the outer surface's optical features, which obstruct light output and fail to effectively collect high-angle light emission.
Innovation Solution
A compact omnidirectional LED light design featuring a smooth lens with a metal base, reflector cups made of metalized plastic, and a heat sink, which directs light efficiently in a 360° radial pattern without optical features on the lens, allowing for a lightweight and cost-effective solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a Fresnel lens is used in the beacon light, then the light can be directed in a specific pattern, but the outer surface accumulates dirt and ice that obstructs light output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the Fresnel lens from the optical system entirely. Instead of using a Fresnel lens to direct light, the invention employs a smooth spherical lens combined with strategically positioned reflector cups that redirect light from multiple LEDs to achieve the desired illumination pattern without the surface complexity that causes dirt and ice accumulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different optical properties to different parts of the system: the outer lens maintains a smooth surface for easy cleaning and resistance to contamination, while internal reflector cups are positioned at specific locations to provide the necessary light redirection. This local differentiation of optical functions eliminates the need for a complex Fresnel lens surface.
2Illumination intensity
If a Fresnel lens is used with high-power LEDs, then the light can be focused, but the optical efficiency is poor because high-angle light is not collected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional Fresnel lens surface to a three-dimensional arrangement of multiple LEDs positioned at different angles around the central axis, with corresponding reflector cups. This spatial distribution in three dimensions allows the system to capture high-angle light emission from LEDs and redirect it effectively, achieving better optical efficiency than a planar Fresnel lens could provide.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reflector cups as intermediary elements between the LEDs and the outer lens. These reflector cups serve as mediators that capture light at various angles from the LEDs and redirect it toward the lens, improving the collection of high-angle light that would otherwise be lost and enhancing overall optical efficiency.
3Illumination intensity
If a complex optical system with Fresnel lens is used, then the light pattern can be controlled, but the device becomes heavier and more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical system into discrete, modular components: multiple individual LEDs, separate reflector cups for each LED, and a simple outer lens. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled into a compact configuration that achieves the desired light pattern control without the weight and complexity of a monolithic Fresnel lens system.
4Illumination intensity
If a complex optical system with Fresnel lens is used, then the light pattern can be controlled, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the expensive, precision-molded Fresnel lens with simpler, less costly components: standard spherical lenses and metalized plastic reflector cups. These simpler components are easier and less expensive to manufacture, while still achieving the required light pattern control through their strategic geometric arrangement and optical properties.
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 design enhances optical efficiency, reduces weight and cost, and prevents dirt/ice accumulation, ensuring reliable and efficient light distribution while minimizing thermal resistance and LED degradation.
Implementation Method 1
a lens coupled to the metal base and enclosing the LED circuit board and the reflector
Implementation Method 2
one or more reflector cups made of metalized plastic opposite said cavity for receiving a respective one of said one or more LEDs
Implementation Method 3
a heat sink coupled to said LED circuit board
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a compact omnidirectional light emitting diode (LED) light. In one embodiment, the compact omnidirectional light includes a metal base including a stalk, a power supply coupled to the metal base, a reflector including one or more reflector cups coupled to the metal base and enclosing the power supply, an LED circuit board including one or more LEDs coupled to the reflector and a lens coupled to the metal base and enclosing the LED circuit board and the reflector, wherein the lens surface is smooth.