Pyramidal Mirror Assembly for Dynamic Color Mixing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional color mixing technologies using RGB LEDs are inefficient in creating color mixing regions, limited to a maximum of seven regions, and lack the ability to vary the size and steer the color mixing patterns effectively.

Innovation Solution

A pyramidal mirror assembly with multiple color light sources and a beam steering mechanism, combined with MEMS mirror arrays and light attenuator arrays, allows for the creation of up to 51 color mixing regions and dynamic control of color patterns, enabling the generation of multicolor shadows and content creation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If conventional RGB LED color mixing is used, then the device structure is simple, but the number of color mixing regions is limited to seven

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoidnumber of color mixing regions
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the single color mixing region into multiple segmented regions by introducing a beam steering mechanism that can independently control different spatial zones. The light beam is segmented into multiple paths that create distinct color mixing regions (up to 51 regions) while maintaining the simplicity of the LED light source itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional color mixing pattern (single plane overlap) to a three-dimensional spatial distribution by using beam steering to create color mixing regions at different positions and orientations. This dimensional expansion allows multiple color mixing regions to be formed without adding multiple LED sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the number of color mixing regions is increased to 51, then the lighting versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting versatilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic beam steering mechanism (such as a rotating prism or MEMS mirror) that can rapidly change the direction and position of light beams. This dynamic control allows the system to create up to 51 different color mixing regions on demand, providing high lighting versatility without requiring 51 separate static light sources or complex optical assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The beam steering mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it divides the light beam into multiple paths, creates multiple color mixing regions, enables spatial control of color distribution, and allows dynamic reconfiguration of the lighting pattern. This multi-functionality achieves high versatility while minimizing the addition of separate device components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If beam steering mechanism is added, then the color pattern can be steered to desired position, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor pattern controlVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical beam steering systems with optically-based solutions such as rotating Fresnel prisms or acousto-optic modulators. These substitutions maintain the ability to steer color patterns to desired positions while reducing mechanical complexity, improving reliability, and enabling faster response times for color pattern control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution significantly increases the number of color mixing regions and allows for dynamic control of color patterns, creating a more colorful and versatile lighting experience that can be used in various applications, including art and entertainment.

Implementation Method 1

a pyramidal mirror assembly with multiple color light sources

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

beam steering mechanism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 3

MEMS mirror arrays to control color at a pixel level

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 4

three or more color light sources with heatsinks

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS12111049B2Color mixing from different light sources
Publication Date: 2024.10.08 E-GREEN LLC
  • US12111049B2 patent drawing
  • US12111049B2 patent drawing
  • US12111049B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A color mixing light system comprises a pyramidal mirror assembly comprising three or more mirrors constructed and arranged in a pyramid structure and three or more color light sources. The pyramidal mirror assembly divides the light beams from the color light sources so that a first portion is reflected by the mirrors and a second portion extends beyond the mirrors to collectively form a multicolor pattern comprising plurality of overlapping color regions on a surface.