Tapered Waveguide Luminaire for Uniform Light Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Low-efficiency light coupling in LED-based luminaires due to the inherent losses when directing light from a lambertian emitting source into a narrow edge of a waveguide plane, leading to suboptimal light distribution and extraction.
Innovation Solution
A luminaire design utilizing a waveguide body with tapered sections and strategically placed extraction features, which control light distribution by refracting and reflecting light through total internal reflection, allowing for efficient light coupling and extraction, thereby enhancing light mixing and uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If light is directed from a lambertian emitting source into a narrow edge of a waveguide plane, then light coupling is achieved, but coupling efficiency is low due to inherent losses
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide structure is divided into multiple sections with different thicknesses (first section with greater thickness, second section with lesser thickness). This segmentation allows optimized light coupling in each section, reducing overall energy loss while maintaining structural feasibility
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the waveguide are given different local properties (varying thickness) to optimize light coupling at specific locations. The first section has greater thickness for initial light entry, while the second section has lesser thickness for controlled light extraction, addressing coupling efficiency locally rather than uniformly
2Productivity
If extraction features are strategically placed in the waveguide, then light extraction efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide is segmented into distinct sections (first and second sections) with extraction features strategically placed in specific locations. This segmentation allows optimization of light extraction efficiency in different regions while maintaining a structured approach that facilitates manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The thickness parameter of the waveguide is changed between sections (greater in first section, lesser in second section) to optimize light extraction efficiency. This parameter variation is implemented in a controlled manner that balances extraction performance with manufacturing feasibility
3Stability of the object's composition
If the waveguide structure is optimized for light distribution, then light uniformity is improved, but the size and weight of the luminaire increase
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide is divided into sections of different thicknesses that work together to achieve uniform light distribution. This segmented approach allows light uniformity to be achieved through optimized light paths in each section rather than requiring a uniformly thick, heavier structure
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections have different local thickness properties optimized for their specific function in the light distribution process. This local optimization achieves overall light uniformity without requiring the entire structure to be uniformly thick, reducing unnecessary material and weight
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 solution achieves improved light mixing and extraction efficiency, resulting in a more uniform and controlled light distribution with increased luminaire efficacy and reduced size and weight, while maintaining high optical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
control light distribution by refracting and reflecting light through total internal reflection
Implementation Method 2
The coupling component(s) direct light into the distribution element(s), and condition the light to interact with the subsequent components
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 3A~4
AI summary
According to one aspect, a luminaire comprises a waveguide body including a central section and first and second separate side sections extending away from the central section along first and second opposed directions, respectively. The central section includes a coupling portion and the waveguide body has a length and includes a plurality of light extraction features that extract light out of the side sections. At least one LED is disposed adjacent the coupling portion and is operated by a power circuit to produce light that is directed into the waveguide body by the coupling portion. At least one structural member extends along the length of the waveguide body for supporting the waveguide body and encloses at least one of the power circuit and the at least one LED.