Two-Element Optical Design for Fixed-Length Light Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical devices for modifying light distribution patterns from light sources, such as LEDs, require adjustment mechanisms to change the distance between optical elements, leading to changes in physical length, which is undesirable for applications like ceiling or wall-mounted structures.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a first and second optical element with moveable surfaces, where the second optical element is supported to move parallel to the first surface, allowing for variation in light distribution patterns without changing the distance between the elements, achieved through stepwise shape discontinuities that reduce spatial room between the surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustment mechanism is used to change the distance between optical elements, then the shape of the light distribution pattern can be varied, but the physical length of the device changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from adjusting the distance between optical elements along the optical axis (one dimension) to moving the second optical element parallel to the first surface (another dimension). This dimensional shift allows the light distribution pattern to be adjusted while keeping the device's physical length constant, as the adjustment occurs in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis rather than extending the device lengthwise.
2Length of moving object
If the second optical element is moved parallel to the first surface, then the light distribution pattern can be adjusted without changing device length, but the convex and concave areas require significant distance to function optimally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the second optical element is positioned within or adjacent to the first optical element, allowing the convex and concave areas to be closely spaced. The stepwise shape discontinuities create a nested arrangement that enables the optically functional areas to work optimally despite the constrained distance, as each element's features are strategically positioned to complement the other in a compact configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating stepwise shape discontinuities on the surfaces of the optical elements. These discontinuities concentrate the optically functional areas in specific local regions rather than requiring uniform spacing across the entire surface. This allows the convex and concave areas to be positioned closely together in critical zones while maintaining optimal optical performance, effectively decoupling the overall device compactness from the local optical functionality.
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 allows for adjustable light distribution patterns without altering the physical length of the optical device, enhancing flexibility and compatibility with embedded applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first optical element comprising a first surface for modifying a distribution of light exiting the first optical element through the first surface
Implementation Method 2
a second optical element comprising a second surface facing towards the first surface in a first direction and for further modifying the distribution of the light entering the second optical element through the second surface
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device includes a first optical element and a second optical element moveable with respect to the first optical element. The first optical element includes a first surface for modifying a distribution of light exiting the first optical element, and the second optical element includes a second surface facing towards the first surface and for further modifying the distribution of the light. One of the first and second surfaces includes convex areas whereas the other one of these surfaces includes concave areas. An optical effect of the optical device is changeable by moving the second optical element with respect to the first optical element in a direction parallel with the first surface. The first and second surfaces are shaped to have stepwise shape discontinuities to reduce a spatial room needed between the first and second surfaces.