Segmented Light Source Layout for Variable Beam Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source devices lack the ability to individually control multiple light emitting elements for varied light distribution patterns, limiting their versatility and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A light source device comprising a combined body with a first and second light emitting portion, where the light emitting elements are arrayed perpendicularly and controlled independently, and a single lens is used to achieve different light distribution patterns, including ultra-wide, wide, narrow, and ultra-narrow angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light emitting elements are arranged to provide multiple light distribution patterns, then light distribution versatility is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light emitting elements are segmented into a first light emitting portion and a second light emitting portion arranged in different directions. The first light emitting portion emits light in a first direction, while the second light emitting portion emits light in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. This segmentation allows each portion to be controlled independently, providing multiple light distribution patterns without requiring separate light source modules, thus reducing overall device size while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple light emitting elements are merged into a single integrated light source device with a unified structure. The first and second light emitting portions are combined in one device, sharing common control circuitry and housing, while maintaining independent light emission capabilities in perpendicular directions. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing device size while preserving multiple light distribution patterns.
2Adaptability or versatility
If light emitting elements are controlled independently, then light distribution control flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented to independently control the first and second light emitting portions. Each light emitting portion can be controlled separately to emit light in its respective direction, allowing flexible light distribution patterns. The segmentation of control enables simple independent switching between different light emission modes without requiring complex coordination algorithms, thus achieving control flexibility with manageable system complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If a single lens is used for multiple light emitting portions, then device compactness is improved, but optical performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single lens is designed with different optical zones or regions corresponding to the first and second light emitting portions. Each zone of the lens is optimized to receive and collimate light from its corresponding light emitting portion in the perpendicular directions. This local quality differentiation within the single lens maintains optimal optical performance for each light emitting portion while achieving device compactness through the use of a single optical element instead of multiple lenses.
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 device enables flexible light distribution control with a single lens, reducing device size and enhancing versatility for applications such as smartphones.
Implementation Method 1
a lens disposed above the combined body... a full angle at half maximum of light distribution of light emitted from the first light emitting portion and exiting from the lens
Data Source
AI summary
A light source device includes: a combined body including light emitting portions including: a first light emitting portion including a first light emitting element, and a second light emitting portion provided separately from and along an outer periphery of the first light emitting portion in a plan view, the second light emitting portion including a plurality of second light emitting elements; and a lens disposed above the combined body. The lens includes an incident surface through which light emitted from the combined body enters the lens, and an exit surface from which light exits the lens, the exit surface being flat, and the incident surface including a convex portion and a plurality of concentric annular convex portions surrounding the convex portion. The first light emitting element and the plurality of second light emitting elements are arrayed in first and second directions that are perpendicular to each other.