Optical Element Fluid Passage for LED Heat Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting devices face challenges in heat management, particularly in solid-state illumination, as heat generation affects performance and lifespan, and traditional heat sinks may not adequately address heat dissipation from light sources and optical elements.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light transmissive optical element with passages or holes that allow fluid flow to facilitate convection, reducing heat buildup by circulating air or other gases through the device, which can be used as a complement or alternative to traditional heat sinks, while minimizing light distribution disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If passages are added to the optical element for fluid flow, then heat dissipation is improved, but light transmission may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The optical element is segmented into multiple layers with passages extending through them, allowing fluid flow paths to be integrated without compromising the overall light transmission function. Each layer can be optimized independently for both thermal and optical performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element serves dual functions: transmitting light from the light source while simultaneously facilitating heat dissipation through integrated passages. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate cooling components that would further block light.
2Temperature
If traditional heat sinks are used, then heat dissipation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling function traditionally performed by separate heat sink components is merged into the optical element itself. The passages are formed directly within the optical element structure, combining thermal management and light transmission functions into a single integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element performs multiple functions simultaneously: light transmission, heat dissipation through convection, and structural support. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated cooling components, simplifying the overall device architecture.
3Temperature
If passages extend through the optical element, then heat transfer by convection is improved, but light distribution is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The passages are strategically positioned and sized to provide adequate heat transfer pathways while minimizing interference with light distribution. The optical properties of different regions of the optical element can be optimized differently - regions with passages are designed to handle thermal loads, while other regions prioritize optical performance.
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 approach enhances heat dissipation, enabling higher operating intensities and longer device lifetimes by effectively transferring heat away from light sources and optical elements without significantly impacting light distribution or visibility.
Implementation Method 1
The passage allows transfer of heat generated by the light source by means of convection through the passage
Implementation Method 2
The at least one optical element is arranged to transmit light emitted by the light source
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting device (1) comprises at least one light source (3) and at least one optical element (5). The optical element (5) may be arranged to transmit light emitted by the light source (3). The optical element (5) comprises a light transmissive material (7) and at least one passage (9) extending through the light transmissive material (7) for allowing a flow of fluid through said optical element (5). The passage (9) is arranged such that a major portion of the light (16) emitted by said light source (3) entering the passage (9) further propagates through the light transmissive material (7). The optical element (5) comprises a plurality of layers (18) of the light transmissive material (7) spaced apart from each other, each layer comprising at least one through-hole (11).