Software Configurable Lighting Device Pixel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust light beam distribution and appearance, requiring multiple fixtures for different applications and failing to provide efficient general illumination with aesthetically pleasing variations.
Innovation Solution
A software-configurable lighting system that includes a pixel controllable light generation and spatial light distribution system, driven by a processor and memory, allowing for real-time adjustment of light intensity, color, and beam shape at a pixel level, enabling customizable light distributions and appearances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple luminaires with different optical distributions are provided to meet different lighting applications, then the adaptability to different lighting needs is improved, but the device complexity and quantity required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single luminaire that can perform multiple lighting functions by incorporating an array of individually controllable light engines, each with adjustable electro-optic components. This allows one device to replace multiple specialized luminaires, achieving universal adaptability across different lighting applications while reducing the total number of devices required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable electro-optic components within each light engine that can be controlled in real-time to change light beam distribution patterns. This dynamic adjustability allows the same physical luminaire to adapt its optical characteristics to match different application requirements, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-function devices
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanically adjustable lenses and irises are used to provide selectable adjustment of light beam shape, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation and adjustment precision deteriorates due to coarse mechanical control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms (lenses and irises) with electronically controlled electro-optic components. This substitution enables precise, programmable control of light beam shape and distribution through electrical signals rather than mechanical movement, achieving fine adjustment precision and ease of operation while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the electro-optic components by adjusting electrical parameters (voltage, current, pulse width) to dynamically change the optical properties of each light engine. This parameter-based control allows for precise, continuous adjustment of beam shape and distribution patterns, far exceeding the coarse discrete adjustments available with mechanical systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If displays or display-like devices are used to provide variable lighting, then the adaptability and appearance variations are improved, but the illumination efficiency and light intensity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the display surface into multiple independently controllable light engines arranged in an array. Each light engine functions as a discrete light source with its own electro-optic control, allowing selective activation and optimization of individual segments. This segmentation enables the system to provide both appearance variations and efficient illumination by activating only the necessary light sources
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes illumination efficiency by dynamically adjusting the operational parameters of each light engine, including light output intensity, color temperature, and pulse duration. This parameter control allows the system to maximize light output efficiency while maintaining the desired appearance variations, unlike fixed-parameter display devices
Data Source
AI summary
The examples relate to various implementations of a software configurable lighting device, installed as a panel, that offers the capability to appear like and emulate a variety of different lighting devices. Emulation includes the appearance of the lighting device as installed in the wall or ceiling, possibly, both when lighting and when not lighting, as well as light output distribution, e.g. direction and/or beam shape.