Spatial Dimming Luminaire Optics Without Moving Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminaires require moving parts or complex architectures for spatial dimming, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A luminaire with independently controllable light sources and an optical system that directs light in different directions using an input and output aperture system, optionally with a light guide and redirecting elements, allowing for spatial dimming without moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If moving parts or complex luminaire architectures are used for spatial dimming, then control of light output in different directions is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The luminaire is divided into multiple independently controllable light sources (first light source, second light source, etc.) positioned at different locations. Each light source can be controlled separately to achieve spatial dimming effects without requiring moving parts or complex mechanical architectures. The segmentation of light sources allows independent control of light output in different directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to spatial control by using multiple light sources that can be independently modulated over time. Instead of using moving parts to change spatial configuration, the system achieves spatial dimming by controlling the intensity and timing of multiple fixed light sources, effectively adding a time dimension to the spatial lighting control problem.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple luminaires or complex architectures are used for spatial dimming, then light output control in different directions is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources and their control circuits into a single luminaire unit. Instead of requiring multiple separate luminaires to achieve spatial dimming, the invention integrates multiple independently controllable light sources within one housing, reducing the total number of components needed and simplifying manufacturing and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminaire is designed as a multi-functional device that can provide both ambient lighting and spatial dimming control simultaneously. The same light sources serve dual purposes: providing overall illumination while also enabling directional light control through independent modulation, eliminating the need for additional specialized equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independently controllable light sources are used, then spatial dimming control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning light sources at specific locations within the luminaire housing and controlling each source independently based on its spatial position. Each light source has a specific function related to its location, allowing targeted illumination of different areas without requiring complex optical elements at each position.
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
Enables flexible and efficient control of light output in various directions, enhancing lighting uniformity and reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system having an input aperture system and an output aperture system, the output aperture system displaced by a predetermined distance along a forward direction from the input aperture system, the optical system operatively coupled with the first and second light source and configured to direct light received at the input aperture system to the output aperture system
Implementation Method 2
the luminaire can include a light guide following the path and optically coupling the input aperture system and the output aperture system
Data Source
AI summary
A luminaire includes a first light source and a second light source, the first and second light source operatively configured to provide amounts of light independently controllable during operation; and an optical system having an input aperture system and an output aperture system. The output aperture system is displaced by a predetermined distance along a forward direction from the input aperture system. The optical system is operatively coupled with the first and second light source and configured to direct light received at the input aperture system to the output aperture system. The output aperture system is configured to output light from the first light source in first directions and light from the second light source in second directions at least in part different from the first directions.