Spatial Dimming Luminaire Using Segmented Light Sources

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing luminaires require moving parts, multiple luminaires, or complex architectures to control light output in different directions, which is inefficient and costly.

Innovation Solution

A luminaire with a first and second light source, each independently controllable, and an optical system with an input and output aperture system, where the output aperture system is displaced along a forward direction from the input aperture system, allowing for independent control of light output in different directions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If moving parts or multiple luminaires are used to control light output in different directions, then spatial dimming capability is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial dimming capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The luminaire is divided into multiple independently controllable light sources (first light source and second light source), each capable of producing light in different directions. This segmentation allows spatial dimming control without requiring moving parts or multiple separate luminaires, as each light source can be independently adjusted to achieve the desired spatial distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension to light control by positioning light sources at different locations and orientations within the luminaire structure. The first light source and second light source are arranged to emit light in different directions, adding a spatial dimension to the control capability and enabling directional light output without mechanical movement.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple luminaires or complex architectures are used to achieve directional light control, then spatial dimming is possible, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirectional light controlVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple light sources and optical components into a single integrated luminaire unit. The first light source, second light source, optical system with input and output aperture systems are merged into one device that achieves directional light control, eliminating the need for multiple separate luminaires and reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The optical system is designed to perform multiple functions: it receives light from both light sources, directs light through the aperture systems, and enables spatial dimming control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies manufacturing while achieving the desired directional light control capability.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If moving parts are used to control light directions, then spatial dimming is achieved, but reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial dimmingVSAvoidreliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical moving parts with a static optical system that achieves spatial dimming through the arrangement and optical properties of light sources and aperture systems. The optical system uses refraction, reflection, and geometric optics to direct light without requiring mechanical movement, thereby improving reliability while maintaining spatial dimming capability.

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

Enables efficient and flexible control of light output in various directions without the need for moving parts or complex architectures, improving lighting applications such as spatial dimming.

Implementation Method 1

the 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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

the optical system...configured to direct light received at the input aperture system to the output aperture system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12267921B2Luminaires for spatial dimming
Publication Date: 2025.04.01 QUARKSTAR LLC
  • US12267921B2 patent drawing
  • US12267921B2 patent drawing
  • US12267921B2 patent drawing

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.