Ring-Shaped Lightguide With Segmented Optical Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indicator light assemblies in smart devices, such as those with LEDs in optical cavities or with reflectors, produce dim and non-uniform light that is often washed out by general lighting, lacking control over brightness, efficiency, and viewing angle.
Innovation Solution
The indicator light assembly features a series of light directing optical devices with separate receiving ends and coupled emitting ends forming a continuous exit surface, maximizing light flux and allowing for independent control of each light source, enabling brighter, more uniform, and adjustable indicator lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If LEDs are disposed in an optical cavity, then the indicator light assembly can be compact, but the light output is dim and non-uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The optical cavity is segmented into multiple light guiding portions, each receiving light from a separate LED. This segmentation allows each portion to efficiently channel light from its corresponding LED, improving overall light output while maintaining compactness through the integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional light exit surface to a three-dimensional light guiding structure with multiple portions extending in different directions. This dimensional change allows light to be channeled more effectively from multiple LEDs, increasing brightness while maintaining a compact footprint.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a reflector is used to generate indirect light, then the light distribution can be improved, but the amount of light incident on the exit surface is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light guiding function from a traditional reflector-based indirect lighting system. By using direct light guiding portions that channel light from LEDs, the system eliminates the energy losses associated with reflection while maintaining uniform light distribution through the segmented structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The light guiding portions act as intermediaries between the LEDs and the exit surface. These portions efficiently transmit light directly from each LED to the exit surface, replacing the reflector as the intermediary element and reducing energy loss while maintaining uniform distribution.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple LEDs are used to increase brightness, then the light output can be enhanced, but the uniformity of light distribution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical cavity is divided into multiple distinct light guiding portions, each associated with a specific LED. This segmentation ensures that light from each LED is channeled through its own dedicated path, preventing light interference and maintaining uniform distribution while allowing multiple LEDs to operate at high brightness.
Solution Approach 2:
Each light guiding portion is optimized for its specific location and corresponding LED, with tailored geometry and optical properties. This local optimization ensures that each portion efficiently channels light from its associated LED, maintaining uniform overall distribution while allowing individual LEDs to operate at high brightness levels.
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 enhances the brightness, uniformity, and control of indicator light, allowing for various patterns and improved visibility in smart fixtures and devices, overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
Each light directing optical device includes a body that extends from the light receiving end towards the light exit surface... configured to direct light that enters each light receiving end... to the light exit surface
Implementation Method 2
The first pair of sidewall segments may extend from a first pair of opposite ends... towards the light exit surface... maximize the amount of light or flux from the light sources that is incident on the light exit surface
Data Source
AI summary
An indicator light assembly includes a lightguide with a plurality of light directing optical devices each having a light receiving end, a sidewall, and a light emitting end coupled to each other to form a ring-shaped light exit surface; and a plurality of light sources positioned at the light receiving ends, such that light from the light sources enters the light receiving ends and is directed towards the light exit surface by the sidewalls.