Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
MOVABLE BARRIER OPERATOR LIGHT DISTRIBUTION
[0001] Continue to [0002].
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods
that distribute
and/or project light. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to
systems and methods
that distribute and/or project light in asymmetrical lighting patterns.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Light emitting diode ("LED") light sources can be longer lasting
and more
energy efficient than incandescent light sources. As a result, LED's can be a
suitable, and
often desirable, replacement for incandescent light sources. LED light sources
are generally
Lambertian in nature. That is, LED light sources generally appear to have the
same
brightness from any viewing angle in the projection region. That is because,
as the viewing
angle of an observer changes with respect to the optic axis of the light
source, the apparent
size of the observed emission surface decreases by about the same fraction as
the intensity of
projected light. Because apparent brightness (or luminance) is a measure of
power per of unit
of projected source area, the apparent brightness appears to be the same to an
observer in the
projection region. The Lambertian nature of LED light sources means that they
generally
only emit light in a single direction (e.g., forward, away from the light
emitting surface), or
towards a single projection region. That is, outside of the projection region
(e.g., rearward of
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the light emitting surface), the LED generally projects no light, or virtually
no light, without
the assistance a reflective device. Thus, attempts to provide additional
directionality behind
the LED typically results in unconventional looking bulbs.
[0004] In contrast, incandescent light sources are inherently non-
directional. That is,
incandescent light sources generally emit the same amount of light over a very
wide range of
angles. For example, incandescent light sources can emit light with
essentially equal intensity
in all directions (i.e., over 360 ) in the horizontal plane of the light
source. That is, the
intensity of light projected from an incandescent light source is essentially
the same in front
of the light source, behind the light source, and on all sides of the light
source. And even in a
vertical plane, the intensity of light from an incandescent source can vary by
less than 10%
over an angular range of about 270 . Thus, incandescent bulbs located near a
wall or ceiling
emit a large fraction of their light onto the wall or ceiling, which results
in high reflective
losses. It would be thus be useful for a light source to provide the
sustainability and
efficiency of LED light sources having additional control over directionality
of the emitted
light.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present disclosure describes examples of a light guide that
projects light in
an asymmetric pattern. The light guide can be installable with respect to a
light emitting
diode ("LED") and extend along an optic axis. The light guide can be
configured to project
light with respect to a first parallel projection plane and a second parallel
projection plane,
where the first and second parallel projection planes are parallel to one
another and to an
optic axis, and are disposed on opposite sides of the optic axis. Additionally
and/or
alternatively, the light guide can be configured to project light with respect
to a perpendicular
projection plane. The perpendicular projection plane can be perpendicular to
the optic axis
and intersects the optic axis at a central lighting point.
[0006] In a typical application, the light guide installs with respect to
an LED and
extends along the optic axis. In some embodiments, the light guide includes an
optic body
that extends along the optic axis. The optic body has at least one side wall
surrounding the
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optic axis. The light guide also has a proximal end with a proximal end
surface configured to
receive light from an emitting surface of the LED and a distal end situated
away from the
proximal end. The distal end has a distal end surface configured to distribute
light emitted by
the light emitting diode. In some examples, the light guide distributes light
asymmetrically
such that more light projects onto the first projection plane as compared to
the second
projection plane in at least one orientation of the first and second parallel
projection planes
around the optic axis. In other examples, the light guide distributes light
about the
perpendicular projection plane so that the light asymmetric with respect to at
least one line in
the projection plane that intersects the optic axis at a central lighting
point. In some
configurations, the light is asymmetric with respect to any line in the
projection plane that
intersects the optic axis at a central lighting point.
[0007] The present disclosure also describes embodiments of a light bulb
assembly
installable with respect to a LED. One example light bulb assembly guide
projects light with
respect to a first parallel projection plane and a second parallel projection
plane (and/or to a
perpendicular projection plane), the first and second parallel projection
planes being parallel
to and located on opposite sides of the optic axis. In some embodiments, the
light bulb
assembly includes a light guide and a globe enclosing the light guide. The
light guide
includes an optic body as discussed above.
[0008] Some aspects of the present disclosure describe a light fixture. The
light
fixture can be configured to project light with respect to a first parallel
projection plane and a
second parallel projection plane (and/or to a perpendicular projection plane),
the first and
second parallel projection planes being parallel to and located on opposite
sides of an optic
axis. An example of such a light fixture includes a heat sink having a LED
with a light
emitting surface. In some embodiments, the LED is connected to a remote power
supply,
such as a battery or 120 volt power supply. The light fixture can also include
a light bulb
assembly mountable to the heat sink. The light bulb assembly can include a
light guide as
discussed above and a globe enclosing the light guide. Such a light fixture
can distribute light
such that more light projects onto the first projection plane (such as away
from a wall or
ceiling) as compared to the second projection plane (such as the wall or
ceiling).
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[0009] The present disclosure also relates to methods of
projecting light in an
asymmetric pattern. Some methods involve using a light guide, a light bulb
assembly, or a
light fixture as described herein. The method can involve distributing light
with respect to a
first parallel projection plane and a second parallel projection plane (and/or
to a
perpendicular projection plane), the first and second parallel projection
planes being parallel
to and located on opposite sides of an optic axis. In some embodiments, a
method can
include emitting light from a LED. The method can also include distributing
the light emitted
from the LED with a light guide, light bulb assembly, light fixture, and/or
another light
source apparatus. The method can involve distributing light asymmetrically
with respect to
one or more projection planes. For example, the method can involve projecting
more light
onto the first projection plane as compared to the second projection plane in
at least one
orientation of the first and second parallel projection planes.
[0010] The present disclosure also presents embodiments of a
movable barrier
operator. In particular, some embodiments include movable barrier operators
that employ
examples of the light guides described herein. For example, a movable barrier
operator
(which may be mountable to a ceiling or a wall of a garage) includes an
operator housing
comprising a motor configured to open and close a movable barrier. A light
source with an
LED is mounted to the housing. The movable barrier operator includes a light
cover
attachable to the housing. The light cover has an interior and an exterior
portion, a front
surface opposite the housing, and side surfaces extending between the front
surface and the
housing, and is configured to cover the light source. The movable barrier
operator also
includes a light distributing element mountable to the light cover or the
housing with respect
to the light source. The light distributing element is configured to scatter
light projected by
the light source, and at least a portion of the scattered light is directed
toward at least one of
the four side surfaces of the light cover.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Figure 1 shows a light guide with a curved distal end
surface projecting light
from an LED in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
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[0012] Figure 2 shows a light guide with an offset conical-shaped distal
end surface in
accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0013] Figure 3 shows a light guide projecting light onto a perpendicular
projection
plane in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0014] Figure 4 shows a light guide with an elbow projecting light in
accordance with
at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0015] Figure 5 shows a light bulb assembly in accordance with at least one
example
of the present disclosure.
[0016] Figure 6A shows a room having two parallel side walls and a floor
lit with a
light bulb assembly in accordance with at least one example of the present
disclosure.
[0017] Figure 6B shows another room having a lighting fixture mounted on a
vertical
wall in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0018] Figures 7A and 7B show two views of a light guide having a planar
distal end
surface angled with respect to the optic axis in accordance with at least one
example of the
present disclosure.
[0019] Figure 8 shows a light guide having a V-shaped distal end surface in
accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0020] Figure 9 shows a light guide having a distal end surface with an
offset dimple
feature in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0021] Figure 10A shows the intensity distribution of light in a multiple
planes from a
light guide having a distal end surface with an offset dimple feature.
100221 Figure 10B shows the intensity distribution of light in a multiple
planes from a
light guide having a planar distal end angled at 450 from the optic axis.
[0023] Figures 11A and 11B show front views of a light guide having
alignment and
adjustment mechanisms in accordance with at least one example of the present
disclosure.
[0024] Figure 12 shows a light guide with a distal end surface configured
to project a
portion of light in a backward direction.
[0025] Figure 13 shows a light fixture configured to allow a friction fit
mounting of a
globe in accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
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[0026] Figure 14 is a front view of a base portion of a light bulb equipped
with an
alignment member in accordance with at least one example of the present
disclosure.
[0027] Figure 15 is an example of a garage door operator as used in
accordance with
at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0028] Figure 16 shows an example of a movable barrier operator employing a
light
guide to project light in accordance with at least one example of the present
disclosure.
[0029] Figures 17A-17H show examples of light guides configured for use on
a
movable barrier operator in accordance with examples of the present
disclosure.
[0030] Figures 18A-18C show a light distribution element for use in
connection with
a movable barrier operator in accordance having a two-sided roof top shape in
accordance
with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0031] Figures 18D-18H show the light distribution patterns generated by
the light
distribution element of Figures 18A-18C.
[0032] Figure 19A is a light distribution element having a three-sided
shape in
accordance with at least one example of the present disclosure.
[0033] Figure 19B shows the light distribution patterns generated by the
light
distribution element of Figure 19A.
[0034] Figure 20A shows a light bulb assembly oriented to direct light
toward a
parallel projection plane in accordance with at least one example of the
present disclosure.
[0035] Figure 20B shows a light bulb oriented to direct light to a lit
portion of a
perpendicular projection plane.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] The present disclosure describes, light sources, light guides, light
fixtures, and
other components that project light in an asymmetric pattern. The present
disclosure also
describes movable barrier operators, such as garage door operators that
incorporate such light
sources, light guides, light fixtures, and other components. The present
disclosure references
the asymmetric lighting pattern with respect to various points, lines, axes,
and projection
planes. For example, the present disclosure refers to an optic axis. As used
throughout this
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disclosure, the optic axis refers to a center line that generally follows the
shape of the body of
a light guide (the "optic body") and passes through both the proximal end and
the distal end
of the light guide. Upon passing through the distal end, the optic axis
extends beyond the
optic body and away from the distal end in a straight line. Consistent with
this definition,
Figures 1-4 and 6 show examples of an optic axis 20 as it relates to various
configurations of
a light guide and other lighting assemblies.
100371 With respect to light distributed and/or projected by the light
guide, this
disclosure makes reference to points, lines, planes, or other geometries that
contain, intersect
with, are parallel to, and/or are perpendicular with the optic axis. Unless
the context of the
disclosure clearly suggests otherwise, such references generally refer
generally to the portion
of the optic axis that extends away from the distal end of the light guide.
100381 The present disclosure also references various planes, surfaces, or
other 2-
dimensional references relative to which the described light sources
distribute and/or project
light. For example, the present disclosure references parallel projection
planes and a
perpendicular projection plane with respect to a light source and/or a light
guide. As used
throughout this application parallel projection planes refer to planes that
are parallel with the
portion of the optic axis extending away from the distal end of the light
guide. Parallel
projection planes can be referenced in pairs, for example, a first parallel
projection plane and
a second parallel projection plane. In this manner, the pair of parallel
projection planes are
generally disposed parallel to each other and on opposing sides of the optic
axis. Figures 1
and 2 show parallel projection planes (40 and 50) as they relate to various
configurations of a
light guide I.
100391 As used throughout this disclosure, a perpendicular projection plane
refers to a
plane that intersects with, and is perpendicular to, the portion of the optic
axis extending
away from the distal end of the light guide. Figure 3 shows a perpendicular
projection
plane 60 as it relates to one example of a light guide I. Generally, the
perpendicular
projection plane 60 intersects with the optic axis 20 at a central lighting
point 62. In some
references, the perpendicular projection plane 60 can pass through, or contain
the distal end
of the light guide. In this manner, the perpendicular projection plane 60 is
the plane at which
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a vertical standing light guide projects light in the horizontal plane
extending about the distal
end of the light guide.
[00401 Decorative light fixtures can be mounted on or near walls,
ceilings, or corners
of a room. Light fixtures can also be used outdoors, for example, in security
light or carriage
light fixtures. Using incandescent light sources in such decorative or other
light fixtures can
present issues, as a large fraction of the emitted light is directed to the
adjacent wall and/or
ceiling near the fixture. This light can then be reflected by the wall and/or
ceiling, thereby
resulting in high reflective losses that reduce the appearance of the light
generated by the
fixture. Further, light that is not absorbed by the wall or ceiling can result
in the appearance
of a high intensity halo forming around the fixture. These effects may
distract from the
decorative and aesthetic appearance of the fixture when it is turned on.
[0041] Unlike incandescent lights, LED light sources are inherently
directional light
sources. That is, LED light sources do not emit light in a backwards
direction. Accordingly,
light sources can use LED's to take advantage of directional nature and
produce a different
appearance than that offered by traditional incandescent lights.
Alternatively, some light
fixtures utilize non-transparent surfaces in close proximity to the light
source to direct light
to particular lighting areas. For example, light fixtures may employ opaque
light shields or
shades that absorb and/or reflect light in certain directions. However, this
use of directional
light shields and shades can also be insufficient, as these techniques may not
allow any light
to reflect off of mounting surfaces. It can be useful to have at least some
light projecting on
or towards a mounting surface so that there is at least some visibility, for
example, so that an
operator can see the mounting surface when the light source needs to be
replaced or repaired.
It therefore difficult to provide a light source that can project enough light
towards a
mounting surface to provide some visibility without projecting so much light
that it causes
the reflective and halo-forming issues described.
[00421 The present disclosure describes light guides that can be used to
efficiently
project light to or away from certain areas depending on the mounting location
of a light
source. For example, where light sources are mounted on or near a wall or
ceiling of a room,
the presently described light guides can be configured to project more light
away from the
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ceiling or wall, so that the light is better distributed throughout the room,
while also allowing
a certain amount of light to project backward, towards the mounting surface.
The light guides
can also be used in outdoor light fixtures, so that light can be directed to
particular areas
(e.g., doorways) and away from other areas (e.g., walls), while retaining an
outer appearance
of a regular light bulb assembly (e.g., an Edison style incandescent light
bulb).
[0043] Referring now to the figures, Figure 1 shows one example of a light
guide for
projecting light in an asymmetric pattern. The light guide is configured to be
mounted over a
light source 5, which can be, for example, an LED or another Lambertian light
source. The
light source 5 can be mounted on a heat sink configured to be powered from a
remote power
source.
[0044] The light guide 1 includes an optic body 10 that has a side wall 12
surrounding
the optic axis 20. The light guide 1 can be formed of glass or other polymeric
material using
known manufacturing methods. In this embodiment, the optic body 10 is
generally of a
cylindrical shape, thus the side wall 12 generally forms a circular shape that
surrounds the
optic axis. In other configurations, the optic body 10 can have another
columnar shape, such
that the cross section shape of the optic body 10 varies along the length of
the optic body, but
so that at least a portion of the optic axis is a straight line running
generally perpendicular to
the proximal end surface.
[0045] The illustrated light guide 1 also has a proximal end 14 that is
positioned over
the light source 5. The proximal end 14 has a proximal end surface 15 that is
configured to
cover or be placed over the light source 5 and/or receive light emitted by the
light emitting
surface of the light source 5. In some embodiments, the proximal end surface
can be
generally flat. In other embodiments, the proximal end surface 15 can be or
can include an
indentation, recess, or other concave feature configured to cover the emitting
surface of an
LED. In some examples, the proximal end 14 of the light guide 1 can be formed
into an
optical surface to facilitate the transmission of light between the light
source 5 and the light
guide.
[00461 The optic body 10 extends along the optic axis 20, which in Figure
1, is shown
to run generally straight and generally perpendicular to the light source 5.
The distal end 16
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of the light guide 1 has a distal end surface 17, which can have an asymmetric
shape or
pattern. In the example shown in Figure 1, the distal end surface 17 is curved
such that
certain portions of the distal end 16 are farther from the proximal end 14
than other portions
of the distal end 16.
[0047] Figure 1 shows two parallel projection planes 40 and 50 that extend
parallel to
one another and to the optic axis 20. The parallel projection planes 40 and 50
are shown
represented as lines, as the planes themselves extend into and out of the 2-
dimensional
surface of the figure on opposing sides of the optic axis 20.
[0048] The distal end surface 17 distributes projected light 80 from the
light source 5
in a pattern that is asymmetric. For example, in the embodiment shown in
Figure 1, the shape
and configuration of the light guide, and in particular, the shape and
configuration of the
distal end surface 17 projects light in an asymmetric pattern such that more
light is projected
onto the first parallel projection plane 40 than onto the second parallel
projection plane 50
without use of reflectors, shades, or other elements other than the optic body
10 itself and
any coatings applied thereto.
[0049] In some embodiments, the light projected onto each of the first 40
and/or
second 50 projection planes itself is also asymmetric about lines along the
first/second
parallel projection planes. For example, in some aspects, the light
distributed onto the first
projection plane can be asymmetric about a line in the first projection plane
that is parallel to
the optic axis. That is, the light guide 1 can be configured to distribute
more light above or
below the optic axis on the first parallel projection plane 40. For example, a
light guide can
be configured to project more light to the right of the optic axis towards the
first parallel
projection plane 40, and it can also be configured to project more light
downward, so that
more light is projected below a line on the first parallel projection plane
that is parallel to the
optic axis. Such an optic could be useful, for example, for use on a lighting
fixture mounted
on a vertical wall at a high point on the wall, for example, near a ceiling.
[0050] In some examples, the light guide 1 can be configured such that one
of the
parallel projection planes comprises a "max-lit" portion that signifies a
portion of the plane
that is illuminated with more light than any other portion of the projection
plane. The max-lit
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
portion can take on a variety of shapes, configurations, or patterns. In some
examples, the
max-lit portion can correspond to an object on display, for example, so that
the display object
receives more illumination than other regions in the projection plane.
[0051] In some aspects, the light projected onto the second parallel
projection
plane 50 comprises a dark portion that includes little light, virtually no
light, or no even light
whatsoever from the light source 5. In some embodiments, the entire second
parallel
projection plane 50 can be a dark portion. In other embodiments, portions of
the second
parallel projection plane can include a lit portion whereas other portions
include one or more
dark portions.
[0052] In some examples, the optic body 10 can have round cross section as
shown in
Figure I. In other examples, however, the optic body 10 may take on a
different shape. For
example, the optic body can have a columnar shape with one or more of an
ovoid, square,
rectangular, triangle, trapezoidal, hexagonal, or rhombus shaped cross
sections along the
length of the optic body 10. The side wall 12 (or side walls) extend along and
surround the
optic axis 20 and are configured to emit very little of the light collected
from the light
source 5 such that the primary lighting occurs via emission from the distal
end 16. In some
aspects, the side wall 12 has a generally smooth surface, and may appear
generally
transparent or translucent. In some examples, the distal end surface 17 of the
light guide is
translucent or even transparent, so that the distal end surface 17 scatters
and directs light in a
predetermined direction or to a predetermined area. In some embodiments (e.g.,
as shown in
Figure 1), the distal end surface 17 is asymmetric with respect to the optic
axis 20.
[0053] In some examples, the distal end surface 17 can have a texture. For
example,
the distal end surface 17 can be rough machined so that a portion of projected
light 80 is
scattered. In some embodiments, the distal end surface 17 may be coated with a
reflective
material. For example, the coating can have a diffuse reflectivity of at least
20%, and in some
embodiments, the coating may have a diffuse reflectivity of up to 99%
[0054] In some embodiments, the light guide 1 can be adjustably
installable with
respect to a light source 5, such that the light guide 1 can be adjusted to
project light to
different regions of the parallel projection planes, or to different
orientations of parallel
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projection planes. The light guide can be equipped with alignment members on
or around the
proximal end 14 of the light guide 1, which can be used to secure an
orientation of the light
guide with respect to the light source, such that the secured orientation is
configured to direct
light to a predetermined region of a projection plane, or to certain
orientation of projection
planes. For example, in some aspects, the proximal end 14 of the light guide I
is adjustable
with respect to the light source 5.
100551 Some examples of the light guide I include alignment
features or alignment
members that facilitate control of the asymmetrical distribution of the
projected light 80. For
example, the light guide 1 can include a keyed structure, or slot/tab
configuration that
corresponds with corresponding structure on the light fixture to which the
light guide 1
mounts. In this manner, the light guide 1 can be adjusted to direct light to a
desired area, for
example, away from a building surface. In some situations, the light could
also be directed
parallel to a building surface so as better illuminate, for example, a door,
the ground in front
of a door, or another physical feature of the building or surrounding area.
Figure 11A shows
an example of a light guide 1 using a keyed structure. The base 11 of the
light guide 1 has a
slot 13, or groove. A key 210 or another tab, post, or protrusion can be
inserted into the slot,
and secured to prevent or inhibit the light guide 1 from rotating about the
optic axis. In some
aspects, the key 210 can be spring loaded so that the key exerts a pressure on
the base 11 of
the light guide 1 as the light guide 1 rotates about the optic axis. In this
manner, when the
slot 13 rotates to the location of the key 210, the spring loaded key 210 can
protrude into the
slot 13, snapping the light guide into an orientation. This can secure the
light guide in a
particular orientation.
[00561 In some embodiments, the light guide 1 can include an
adjustment mechanism
that can be configured to adjust the orientation of the distal end 16 of the
light guide 1. For
example, the optic body 10 can have an adjustment member that is a joint,
hinge, screw,
gear, or thread that allows the distal end 16 of the light guide I to be
adjusted and/or oriented
with respect to the proximal end 14. In some embodiments, the adjustment
mechanism can
allow the light guide 1 to rotate between a plurality of secured orientations.
Figure 11B
shows an example of a light guide 1 with an adjustment mechanism. The
adjustment
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mechanism of Figure 11B is similar to the alignment member of Figure HA,
though it
includes four slots 13 or divots positioned around the circumference of the
base 11 of the
light guide 1. In this manner, the light guide 1 can rotate about the optic
axis, and the key 210
can secure the orientation of the light guide 1, for example, when a slot 13
of the light guide
rotates over the key 210. In another example, the adjustment mechanism of
could be a
ratcheted base that allows the light guide I to be turned and ratcheted into a
desired position
and/or orientation.
[00571 Figure 2 shows another configuration of a light guide 1. In Figure
2, the light
guide 1 comprises an offset conical-shaped distal end surface 17. The conical
surface can be,
for example, a cone shape that is generally symmetric about a conical axis 22.
The conical
axis 22 can extend at an angle a with respect to the optic axis 20. The offset
axis allows the
light 80 distributed by the light guide 1 to project asymmetrically. For
example, as shown in
Figure 2, the light guide 1 projects light 80 such that more light is
projected to the first
parallel projection plane 40 than the second parallel projection plane 50.
[0058] Figure 3 shows a light guide 1 projecting light with respect to a
perpendicular
projection plane 60. As shown, the perpendicular projection plane 60
intersects with the optic
axis 20 at a central lighting point 62. The distal end surface 17 of the light
guide 1 has an
asymmetric shape so as to produce a lighting pattern on the perpendicular
projection plane 60
that is asymmetric with respect to at least one line on the perpendicular
projection plane 60
passing through the central lighting point 62. In some embodiments, the light
pattern 80 can
be asymmetric with respect to all lines on the perpendicular projection plane
60 passing
through the central lighting point 62. The perpendicular projection plane 60
is perpendicular
to the optic axis 60, and depending on the orientation, can be located far or
near to the light
guide 1. In some embodiments, the perpendicular projection plane 60 can
intersect the optic
axis 20 at a point on the light guide 1 itself. For example, in some
embodiments, the present
disclosure may refer to a lighting pattern on a perpendicular projection plane
60 that
intersects the optic axis 20 at the distal end 16 of the light guide 1. That
is, the perpendicular
projection plane 60 can include the distal end of the light guide.
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[0059] Some examples of the presently described light guide 1 are
configured to
distribute light from an LED light source asymmetrically, so that more light
is distributed to
a lit portion 82 than to a dark portion 84 of the perpendicular projection
plane 60. In some
examples, the light guide can be configured to project at least about 90% of
the light emitted
from the light source 5 to the lit portion 82 of the perpendicular projection
plane 60. In some
aspects, the light guide 1 is configured to direct very little light,
essentially no light, or even
no light whatsoever to the dark portion 84 of the perpendicular projection
plane 60. In some
embodiments, the distal end surface 17 of the light guide 1 is configured such
that the
light 80 projects roughly with an equal intensity along a lit portion 82 of a
perpendicular
projection plane 60.
[0060] In some embodiments, the lit portion 82 can be defined by an angle 0
about the
central projection point 62 on the perpendicular projection plane 62. In this
manner, the light
guide 1 leaves a dark portion 84 of the perpendicular projection plane 60 that
comprises a
range of 360 minus 0. In some embodiments, the lit portion 82 can span a
range of about
200 to about 300 of the perpendicular plane 60. That is, in a perpendicular
plane 60 (e.g., a
perpendicular plane that intersects the distal tip of the light guide), the
light guide 1 can
project light with roughly equal intensity to a lit portion that extends from
about 200 to
about 300 of the perpendicular plane. In this manner, the dark portion will
encompass about
60 to about 160 of the perpendicular plane 60. Because the lit portion spans
greater than
180 , the light guide therefore projects light in a backward direction. This
can be
accomplished by providing a distal end surface 17 that is configured to
distribute light in this
pattern. Because the light guide I can be configured to project a portion of
some light in a
backward direction, the light guide 1 can provide some illumination on the
mounting surface
of the lighting fixture. Figure 12 shows an example light guide 1
configuration that is capable
of projecting light in this manner. The light guide 1 is generally columnar in
shape and
positioned so that the proximal surface 15 is positioned over a light source
5, which directs
light about the optic axis 20 in a direction 25. The distal end surface 17 of
the light guide 1
can have a portion that is sloped or angled at an angle a, which can be, for
example, 10 or
14
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
less. The distal end 16 can include a metallized or roughed surface, which can
help to reflect
a portion of the light down and to the side.
[0061] Figure 4 depicts another embodiment of a light guide 1. The light
guide 1 of
Figure 4 comprises an elbow 18. As shown, the elbow 18 establishes a bend in
the light
guide 1 such that a portion of the optic axis 20 passing through the distal
end 16 is at an
angle a with respect to the portion of the optic axis 20 passing through the
proximal end 15.
In some examples, the elbow 18 can establish an angle a that is between about
90 and about
180 . In Figure 4, the elbow 18 bends the light guide 1 at an angle a of about
90 . In this
manner, the optic body 10 of the light guide 1 of Figure 1 takes on an L-
shape, and the light
guide 1 can project light at a 90 angle from the portion of the optic axis 20
that passes
through the light source 5. The optic axis 20, as referenced throughout this
disclosure,
generally follows the center line of the optic body 10, and thus also includes
a 90 bend as
shown in Figure 4. In this manner, the optic axis 20 extends away from the
distal end 16 of
the light guide 1 at an angle with respect to the portion of the optic axis 20
passing through
the proximal end 14 of the light guide 1. In some aspects, the light guide 1
of Figure 4 can
rotate about the proximal end, such that the distal end 16 of the light guide
projects light in
different directions and to different areas with respect to the light source
5.
[0062] The present disclosure also describes light bulb assemblies. For
example,
Figure 5 shows a cross section of a light bulb assembly 100 comprising a light
guide 1, and a
globe 90 surrounding the light guide 1. In some embodiments, the light bulb
assembly 100
includes a heat sink 94 attached or attachable to the globe 90. The heat sink
can include a
light source such as an LED. The light bulb assembly 100 can be configured so
that the light
guide 1 is positioned over the LED when the light bulb assembly 100 is mounted
to a light
source.
[0063] The globe 90 can be made of a glass or polymeric material. The globe
90 can
be transparent, translucent, tinted, or colored. In some embodiments the globe
90 may
approximate the shape of a standard incandescent bulb such as an Al9 bulb or a
G25 bulb,
for example, or any other shape.
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
100641 In some embodiments the globe 90 and/or the light bulb assembly 100
are
mountable about a light source in a manner that allows it to be removed or
replaced by a
user. In some aspects, the globe 90 itself is removably attachable to the
light bulb
assembly 100. For example, the light bulb assembly 100 can be configured to
operate with
multiple globes 90 of a different color, texture, or light filtering pattern,
so that a user can
interchange globes 90 to provide different looks. In some aspects, the light
guide 1 is also
interchangeable and/or replaceable with respect to the light bulb assembly.
This is shown, by
way of example, in Figure 13, which shows a light fixture 105 with a light
guide 1 installed
over a light source. The light fixture 105 is equipped with a rim 95 that is
configured to have
a globe 90 inserted therein. The globe 90 can form a friction fit with the rim
95. In this
manner, the user can employ different globes 90 when different lighting
conditions are
desired. For example, a user may remove a fiction fit globe 90 from the rim
95, to expose or
adjust the light guide 1. The light guide 1 can also be removed from an inset,
or off a post,
nub, protrusion, or the like. A new light guide I can then be installed over
the light source,
and the globe 90 (or a new, different globe) can be installed over the light
guide 1 via the
rim 105. In some aspects, the globe 90 and the light guide 1 can be
interconnected such that
when the globe 90 is installed/uninstalled from a light source, the light
guide 1 is also
installed/uninstalled.
[00651 In some examples, the light bulb assembly 100 can be configured to
be
installed in a fixed orientation, such that the light bulb assembly installed
in the fixed
orientation distributes light in a particular asymmetric pattern relative to
the environment
around the assembly 100. For example, the light bulb assembly 100 can include
an alignment
member (e.g., a slot/tab configuration, a keyed configuration, a snap-fit
mechanism) that
facilitates installing the light bulb assembly in the fixed orientation. In
the fixed orientation,
the light bulb assembly 100 can direct light to a predetermined area or in a
predetermined
manner. For example, the light bulb assembly 100 can be locked into place in
the fixed
orientation, where the fixed orientation is configured to direct more light to
a first parallel
projection plane 40 than a second parallel projection plane 50, as
demonstrated in
Figure 20A. Additionally and/or alternatively, the fixed orientation can be
configured so that
16
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
the light bulb assembly 100 directs more light to a lit portion 82 of a
perpendicular projection
plane 60 than to a dark portion 84 of the perpendicular projection plane 60,
as demonstrated
in Figure 20B. Figure 14 shows an example of a light bulb assembly 100
equipped with an
alignment member. Figure 14 is a front view of a base portion of a light bulb
assembly 100,
and uses a divot 113, a pin Ill, and a spring 103 to secure the position
and/or orientation of
the light bulb assembly 100. As shown, the divot 113 is configured to align
with the pin 111,
and with pressure applied by a spring 103, the alignment member keeps the
light bulb
assembly from rotation out of the secured orientation/position.
100661 In some aspects, the light bulb assembly 100 can installed in an
adjustable
configuration. For example, in an adjustable configuration, the light bulb
assembly 100 can
be moved, rotated, bent, angled, twisted, elongated, or otherwise adjusted to
modify the area
to which the light bulb assembly 100 distributes light. For example, in some
examples, the
light bulb assembly can be adjusted to a first configuration where more light
is distributed to
a first parallel projection plane 40, and then be re-adjusted to project more
light to a second
parallel projection plane.
[00671 Some examples of the present technology include a light fixture,
which can
include, for example, the light bulb assembly 100 (including the globe 90 and
the light
guide I), the heat sink 94, and a light source, such as an LED or another
Lambertian light
source. In another embodiment, the globe 90 and the light guide I could be
permanent
objects (i.e., re-usable with multiple light sources), while the light source
itself (e.g., an LED
package or component) is replaceable. In this manner, users could replace a
faulty LED
package, employ different colored LED's (e.g., red, green, yellow, blue, etc.)
or use LED's
with other features such as color temperature. In some embodiments, the light
guide I can be
manufactured directly into the light fixture. In this manner, the light guide
can be provided in
a way to direct light to a direct location with respect to the fixture. Such
an embodiment can
be employed, for example, in an LED light fixture, where the LED light source
is expected to
last for several years without replacing. Thus, the light fixture can be
designed to project
light from one particular location (e.g., from a location about a doorway) to
another
particular location (e.g., to the ground in front of the doorway).
17
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
100681 Figure 6A shows an example of a room 200 with a light bulb assembly
100
that is configured for distributing light from an LED light source. The light
bulb
assembly 100 projects light from an LED light source mounted within the
ceiling. The light
bulb assembly 100 has a light guide 1 that extends along the optic axis 20.
The optic axis 20
extends down into the room 200 and intersects the floor 160 at central
lighting point 62. Two
side walls 140 and 150 define the side boundaries of the room. The walls and
floor of the
room 200 are shown to help visualize the parallel projection planes and the
perpendicular
projection plane as those terms are used throughout this disclosure. For
example, the
floor 160 and ceiling 161 can represent a perpendicular projection plane 60,
as they intersect
the optic axis 20 at a 90 angle. The side walls 140 and 150 can represent the
first and second
parallel projection planes 40 and 50, as they run parallel to, and on opposing
sides of the
optic axis 20. As shown in Figure 6, the light bulb assembly is configured to
project light 80
in an asymmetric pattern. In this Figure, the light bulb assembly 100 projects
light to the left
of center of the room 200, establishing a lit portion 82 about the corner of
the floor 160 and
the first side wall 140, and away from the ceiling 161 and the second side
wall 150.
100691 Figure 6B shows another room 200 having a lighting fixture 110
mounted on a
vertical wall 150. The illustrated lighting fixture 110 is equipped with has a
light bulb
assembly 100 with a light guide 1. As shown in Figure 6B, with respect to the
central
lighting point 62, which represents the point at which the optic axis 20
intersects the
floor 160, the lighting fixture 110 directs a light pattern 80 that is
asymmetrical. That is, the
lighting fixture 110 directs more light away from the wall 150 and towards
wall 140, thereby
providing better lighting throughout the room 200. Still, a small portion of
light 80 is
directed in a backward direction to dimly illuminate the vertical wall 150.
[0070] The presently described light bulb assemblies 100 and light guides
1 distribute
light in an asymmetric pattern. In some examples, the asymmetric pattern is
achieved by the
shape or configuration of the distal end surface 17 of the light guide I.
Various
configurations, shapes, or patterns of the distal end surface 17 can project
light in different
asymmetric patterns. For instance, in some examples, the distal end surface 17
can have a
shape that is asymmetric with respect any line perpendicular to the optic axis
to achieve the
18
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
desired light pattern. In some examples, the distal end surface 17 is curved.
The curvature
can be in one or two dimensions. In some aspects, the curvature can be wave-
like. Figures 7-
9 provide examples of different configurations of the distal end surfaces that
can be used to
project light in an asymmetric pattern.
[0071] Figures 7A and 7B show two views of a light guide 1 that has a
planar distal
end surface 17. The light guide 1 has a generally cylindrical shaped optic
body 10, with a
side wall 12 that extends circumferentially around the optic axis. The
proximal end 14 has a
proximal end surface 15 that is generally wider than the surface of the optic
body 10. The
proximal end surface 15 can be configured to mount to, on, or over a light
source, or to other
equipment installed with respect to a light source. In some aspects, the
proximal end 14 can
be configured with alignment members that assist in the installation and/or
mounting of the
light guide 1 about a light source.
[0072] The planar distal end surface 17 is angled with the optic axis 20.
Generally, the
planar distal end surface 17 is angled at an angle other than 90 . For
example, the planar
distal end surface 17 can be angled between 40 and 50 with respect to the
optic axis 20,
between 44 and 46 , or more specifically, at 45 . In this configuration, the
light guide will
be configured to project light in a direction that is generally perpendicular
to the planar distal
end surface 17. Accordingly, the light guide will project light at an angle
away from the optic
axis 20 (e.g., at 45 ). A light intensity distribution using the light guide
of Figures 7A and 7B
is shown in Figure 10B.
[0073] Figure 8 shows a light guide 1 having generally cylindrical shaped
optic
body 10 and a V-shaped groove shape at the distal end surface 17. The V-shaped
groove has
two sloped surfaces 19. The sloped surfaces 19 of the V-shaped groove
intersect at an
angle a, which can range between 0 and 180 depending on the desired effect of
the light
guide 1. For example, in some embodiments, the V-shaped distal end surface 17
has an
angle a of about 20 to 80 . In other embodiments, the V-shaped distal end
surface 17 has an
angle a of about 90 . In some aspects, the distal end surface 17 may include
an inverted V-
shaped surface, such that the two sloped surfaces intersect at an angle
greater than 180 .
19
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
[0074] Figure 9 shows a light guide 1 having generally cylindrical shaped
optic
body 10 and a distal end surface 17 with an offset dimple shape. The offset
dimple shape
provides a concaved indentation into the distal end surface 17. The center
point of the
indentation of the offset dimple can be in a location offset from the optic
axis. A light
intensity distribution using the light guide of Figure 9 is shown in Figure
10A.
[0075] While certain configurations, shapes, and patterns of light guide 1
distal end
surfaces 17 have been shown and described, it should be appreciated that the
present
disclosure is not limited to only these configurations. It is contemplated
that other patterns,
shapes, or configurations could be used to project light about other
asymmetrical patterns,
depending on the intended use of the light.
[0076] Figures 10A and 10B are computer simulations showing the intensity
distribution of light in various planes using light guides in accordance with
the present
disclosure. More specifically, Figure 10A shows the simulated polar intensity
distribution of
light in a horizontal and vertical plane from a light guide having a distal
end surface with an
offset dimple feature (e.g., the light guide of Figure 9) and a diffuse
reflector coating.
Line 310 represents the light intensity measured in a horizontal plane (i.e.,
a parallel
projection plane that includes the optic axis) and line 320 represents the
light intensity
measured in a vertical plane (i.e., a perpendicular projection plane that
includes the distal end
of the light guide). The arrows represent the front of the light guide. As
shown in this chart,
the approximate distribution of light is about 80% in a forward direction, and
about 20% in a
backward direction.
[0077] Figure 10B shows the simulated polar intensity distribution of
light in a
horizontal and vertical plane from a light guide having a 45 angled planar
distal end surface
(e.g., the light guide of Figures 7A and 7B), and a rough tooled surface
(i.e., a translucent
surface). Line 410 represents the light intensity measured in a horizontal
plane (i.e., a parallel
projection plane that includes the optic axis) and line 420 represents the
light intensity
measured in a vertical plane (i.e., a perpendicular projection plane that
includes the distal end
of the light guide). The arrows represent the front of the light guide. As
shown in this chart,
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
the approximate distribution of light is about 90% in a forward direction, and
about 10% in a
backward direction.
[0078] The present disclosure also describes methods of projecting light in
an
asymmetric pattern. For example, methods can involve using a light guide, a
light bulb
assembly, or a light fixture described herein in the manners described to
project light in an
asymmetric pattern about one or more projection planes. In some embodiments,
the method
can involve distributing light with respect to a first parallel projection
plane 40 and a second
parallel projection plane 50 as described herein and depicted in the related
figures.
Additionally and/or alternatively, the method can involve distributing light
with respect to a
perpendicular projection plane 60, which intersect the optic axis 20 at a 90
angle. In some
embodiments, the perpendicular projection plane can include and/or pass
through the light
guide, the light bulb assembly, and/or the light fixture itself. In some
embodiments, a method
involves emitting light from a light source such as an LED or another
Lambertian light
source.
[0079] The method can also include distributing the light from the light
source with a
light guide (e.g., a light guide as described herein). For example, the method
can involve
distributing light with a light guide that has an optic body extending along
the optic axis, and
at least one side wall surrounding the optic axis. The light guide includes a
proximal end
having a proximal end surface configured to receive light from an emitting
surface of a light
emitting diode. Examples light guides also include a distal end situated away
from the
proximal end and a distal end surface configured to distribute light emitted
by the light
emitting diode. The distal end can take on various configurations as described
herein and
depicted in the figures. The configuration and shape of the distal end of the
light guide
distributes the light to predetermined lighting areas (e.g., a lit portion of
a perpendicular
projection plane, a first parallel projection plane, etc.) or in a particular
asymmetrical lighting
pattern. The method can be used to project light from a light source that is
located on or near
a wall and/or ceiling. In this manner the method results in projecting a
majority of the light
from the light source away from the adjacent walls or ceilings, while also
providing a
sufficient amount of light back towards the mounting surface.
21
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
[0080] The present disclosure presents light guides, light bulbs, light
fixtures, and
other equipment involving or operating in connection with a LED based light
source. The
presently disclosed lighting structures can be used, for example, in a
luminaire that
approximates the appearance of an incandescent lamp in both the on and off
states. Some
aspects of the present disclosure describe technology that includes a light
guide that receives
light from one or more LED devices and a translucent surface at a far end that
disperses light
in an asymmetric pattern. The asymmetries in the distribution pattern can be
designed to
reduce the intensity of light reflecting off interior surfaces of the
luminaire, or other walls or
structures. This feature can provide a light source having improved fixture
efficiency,
especially for luminaires that have a reflecting surface near the light
source. The described
technology can also provide a light source with an improved overall
directional efficiency for
light sources mounted near a wall or ceiling, as the present technology can
reduce the
incident light that reflects off the walls and/or or ceiling.
[0081] The present disclosure can be applied to a wide array of different
light fixtures
and light sources. For example, the light guides of the present disclosure can
be applied in
wall sconces, ceiling lights, ceiling fans, desk or table lamps, outdoor
lights, security lights,
and/or movable barrier operators (e.g., garage door operators). For example,
the above
disclosure describe light guides and light bulb assemblies that can be applied
to use with a
movable barrier operator.
[0082] A movable barrier operator can be installed on the ceiling of a
garage and used
to control the opening/closing of a garage door. The movable barrier operator
can be
equipped with a motorized system that opens and closes a movable barrier
(e.g., a garage
door) with the press of a button. The movable barrier operator can have a
light that
illuminates the garage, or a portion of the garage, at certain times. For
example, the movable
barrier operator can have a light that a user can manually turn on and off or
that turns on
automatically each time the movable barrier operator is activated to open or
close the garage
door. Figure 15 is an example of a movable barrier operator, more
specifically, a garage door
operator 500 that includes a drive rail 530 that allows a chain 535 to open
and close a garage
door. Two light sources are shown on opposing sides of the garage door
operator 500. Each
22
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
light source is protected with a light cover 510, which can be removed so that
the light source
can be replaced, repaired, or removed. In Figure 15, the garage door operator
500 has two
light sources so that light can project in two different directions away from
the garage door
operator 500.
[0083] Movable barrier operators can control the direction and distribution
of light to
certain desired locations of a room. For example, a movable barrier operator
can direct light
toward and/or away from a garage door, toward and/or away from a home
entryway, toward
and/or away from a particular vehicle bay, or toward and/or away from a
workbench or other
workspace in the garage. Movable barrier operators can achieve this controlled
distribution
via a number of techniques. For example, a movable barrier operator can be
mounted on a
ceiling with the light source pointed in a particular configuration. The
movable barrier
operator can be equipped with a light source positioned on one or more
particular sides of the
base unit. Further, a movable barrier operator can be configured to be
remounted in multiple
different positions and orientations with respect to the garage. In certain
aspects, a movable
barrier operator can be equipped with a light directing element to direct
light to
predetermined locations. In some embodiments, the light directing element can
be a light
guide as described in this disclosure. That is, a garage door operator can
have a light source
(e.g., an LED light source) and a light directing element positioned in
relation to the light
source.
[0084] Figure 16 shows an example of a movable barrier operator 500
employing a
light distributing element 501 to distribute light in a predetermined pattern
in accordance
with at least one example of the present disclosure. As show in in Figure 16,
the garage door
operator 500 is equipped with a light source 505, which can be, for example,
an LED light. A
light distributing element 501 can be positioned on, about, or near the light
source 505 so as
to reflect and/or distribute light from the light source 505 in a
predetermined pattern. The
light distributing element 501 can be attached to an interior surface of the
light cover 510. In
some aspects, the predetermined pattern can be, for example, asymmetrical.
[0085] The light distributing element 501 can be a transparent or semi-
transparent
object, such as glass or plastic, for example, and can be configured to
reflect and/or refract
23
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
all or a portion of light directed to it. In Figure 16, the light distributing
element 501 is
generally triangular (i.e., conical and/or pyramidal) in shape, and is
configured to reflect
light 580 from the light source 505 to opposite sides 512 of the light cover
510. The light
cover 510 may include a transparent or translucent defuser surface so as to
defuse light
emitted from the garage door operator 500. In some embodiments, the light
distributing
element 501 may allow a portion of the light 580 to pass through the light
distributing
element 501 and light cover 510 in addition to reflecting some of the light to
opposite
sides 512 of the light cover 510. In other embodiments, the light distributing
element 501 can
reflect all or virtually all of the light 580 from the light source 505 to
predetermined
locations. In some examples, the light distributing element 501 is a light
guide as described
herein or as depicted in any of Figures 1-14.
[00861 In some aspects, the light distributing element 501 can be a part of
the light
cover 510. For example, the light distributing element 501 can be embedded in
or attached to
a front inner surface of the light cover 510. In this manner, the light cover
510 can be
configured to project light in a particular projection pattern. A user
desiring a different
pattern could replace the light cover 510 with another cover that has a
different light
distributing element 501 embedded therein or connect the light cover 510 to
the movable
barrier operator in a different orientation. The light cover 510 can be used
to protect
electronic portions of the movable barrier operator 500, and in some aspects
the movable
barrier operator 500 can be configured so that it will not activate or project
light unless the
light cover 510 is in place. In some examples, the light distributing element
501 is mountable
and/or removably mountable to the light cover 510. In this manner, the light
cover 510
and/or the light distributing element 501 can be configured to be mountable to
the housing in
a plurality of orientations to effect a plurality of arrangements between the
light distributing
element and the light source.
100871 Additionally and/or alternatively, the movable barrier operator may
operate
with a generic light cover 510, and the light distributing element 501 itself
can be replaceable
or repositionable relative to the LED (for instance rotated about any axis or
moved linearly
toward or away in any direction). For example, the light cover 510 can have a
connector
24
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
configured to receive a variety of differently-shaped light distributing
elements 501. In this
manner, a user can replace the light distributing element 501 when the user
desires the garage
door operator to project light in a different light projection pattern.
Alternatively, the light
distribution element 501 and light cover 510 may be permanently affixed to the
movable
barrier operator. By employing a light distributing element 501, a movable
barrier operator
can utilize smaller and more efficient LED light sources while still
distributing in the same
manner as a typical incandescent light. Thus, the resulting movable barrier
operators can be
smaller, less bulky, more energy efficient, and safer (e.g., by reducing the
possibility of fires
caused by an incandescent bulbs contacting a light cover), while still having
good light
distribution properties.
[0088] The light distributing element 501 used in the movable barrier
operator 500
can take on a variety of shapes and/or configurations to project light in a
variety of
configurations and patterns. In some embodiments, the light distributing
clement 501 can be
a light pipe or other object with a symmetrical light refractor surface that
distributes light to
the edges of the light cover 510. The light distributing element 501 can have
a variety of
different sizes, shapes, and configurations depending on the light
distribution pattern that
they are intended to generate. For example, the light distributing element 501
can have a
square shaped base, but in other examples, the light distributing element 501
can have a
rectangular shaped base to match the shape of the light cover 510. In other
embodiments, the
base light distributing element 501 can be round so that the element 501 can
be easily rotated
or adjusted when installed. The base of the light distributing element 501 can
also be any
other shape, such as triangular, elliptical, or trapezoidal, depending on the
intended light
distribution pattern.
[0089] The light distributing element 501 can have a curvature from top to
bottom
and left to right as a way of controlling the light distribution. In this
manner, the light
distributing element 501 can compensate for an uneven distribution of light
from the source.
In operation, a user can rotate the light distributing element 501 to a
desired orientation. The
light distributing element 501 can also be used to control the light that hits
the edge of the
light cover 510 as compared to the amount of light that hits the bottom, or
front of the light
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
=
cover 510. For example, the shape of the light distributing element 501 can be
adjusted,
and/or the reflector surface can be adjusted up, down, or around one or more
axes of the light
distributing element 501.
[0090] The light distributing element 501 can distribute light using one
of a reflective
or a refractive technique. That is, in some embodiments, the light
distributing element 501 is
or includes a reflective element positioned away from the light source, and
having a surface
structure designed to reflect and distribute the light. In some instances, the
distributing
reflective element attaches to the interior portion of the light cover 510.
For instance, the
reflective element may be mounted to the interior portion of the front surface
of the light
cover 510, and arranged to reflect light projected from the light source
towards at least one
side surface of the light cover. In some examples, the reflective element
includes two to four,
or even more reflective surfaces. Some examples of the reflective element have
a pyramidal
shape with a top point and mounts to the light cover so that the top point
faces the light
source. In other examples, the reflective element has a roof top shape with a
top portion, and
mounts to the light cover so that the top portion faces the light source.
[0091] In some aspects, one or more of the reflective surfaces of the
reflective
element include a non-flat portion. For example, the non-flat portion may
include one or
more of a concave portion, a convex portion, bumps, waves, recesses, or
fluctuations in the
curvature of the surface. In this manner, the non-flat portion can be arranged
to scatter light
in a predetermined projection pattern.
[0092] In other embodiments, the light distributing element 501 is a light
guide (e.g.,
one of the light guides described herein with respect to Figures 1-14)
mountable over the
light source 505 that distributes light using a refractive technique. For
example, the light
distributing element can assume one or more of the embodiments of light guides
(e.g., light
guide 1) described herein, and can be mountable, or removably mountable,
relative to the
light source. In some examples, the light distributing element 501 can mount
to the light
cover 510.
[0093] The light distributing element 501 can have a proximal end
configured to
receive light from the light source 505, and a distal end (or tip) having a
shape and
26
CA 02910093 2015-10-22
configuration designed to scatter and distribute the light. In some aspects,
the light guide has
a distal tip with a roof top shape. For example, the roof top shape comprises
two surfaces
meeting at a top portion, wherein the top portion faces away from the light
source. In this
manner, the light guide may be configured to scatter light toward two or more
side surfaces
of the light cover 510 and/or toward the front surface of the light cover 510.
In other
examples, the distal tip has a pyramidal shape comprising three tip surfaces.
Such a shape
may be able to project light toward at least two side surfaces 512 of the
light cover. The
pyramidal shaped distal tip could also have four (or more) tip surfaces, and
be arranged to
project light toward three or more surfaces. The tip surfaces of the distal
tip can be arranged
to meet at a top point, with the top point faces away from the light source.
In some examples,
the light guide 501 can be arranged to scatter, distribute, and/or direct
light towards the front
surface of the light cover.
[0094] The light distributing element 501 can take on a variety of
different shapes,
sizes and configurations to achieve different light distribution patterns.
Figures 17A-17C
show top views of a light distributing element 501 in various configurations
for use on a
movable barrier operator 500. In Figure 17A, the light distributing element
501 is a reflective
element. The light distributing element 501 has a 4-sided pyramidal
configuration, where
each of the four sides has a curved, or partially curved (i.e., not flat)
surface as shown with
broken lines. In some aspects, all four sides of the pyramidal configuration
can be curved,
but in other embodiments, one or more surfaces can be generally flat.
[0095] Figures 17B and 17C show configurations of another reflective light
distributing element 501 with a "roof top" shape. As shown in Figures 17B and
17C, the
sides of the light distributing element 501 can have one or more convex or
concave portions,
(shown in broken lines), which can be, for example, bumps, waves, recesses, or
fluctuations
in the curvature of the surface to scatter the light in a projection pattern.
In this manner, the
position or orientation of the light distributing element 501 can be adjusted
to distribute the
light to desired locations.
[0096] Figures 17D-17H show examples of a refractive light distributing
element 501.
Specifically, Figures 17D-17H show examples of a refractive light distributing
element 501
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CA 02910093 2015-10-22
that is a light guide. More specifically, Figures 17D-17H show front views of
the distal tip of
a light distributing element 501 used in accordance with a movable barrier
operator.
[0097] Figures 17D and 17E show the distal surface of a light distributing
element 501 that has been symmetrically cut so that four sides converge to a
point. The distal
tip of the light distributing element of Figures 17D and 17E thus distributes
light in
directions perpendicular to the cut surfaces of the distal tip. In some
embodiments, the light
distributing element 501 can have a square or rectangular shaped cross
section, and in other
embodiments, the light distributing element 501 can have a round cross
section. The light
distributing element 501 can also include an optic body, or light pipe, that
extends beyond
the distal tip. The optic body can vary in length, and can be significantly
shorter or longer
than the length of the distal tip, or anywhere in between. In Figure 17D, the
light distributing
element 501 is generally symmetrical and is configured to distribute light to
the edges of the
light cover 510. Figure 17E further comprises a center refracting surface,
which is configured
to allow a portion of light to shine straight through the light distributing
element 501, to the
front surface of the light cover 510. In some embodiments, the tip of the
light distributing
element 501 can have concave and/or convex portions, which can be bumps,
waves, recesses,
or fluctuations in the curvature of the surface to scatter the light in a
projection pattern.
[0098] Figures 17F, 17G, and 17H show distribution patterns of a light
distributing
element 501 configured to distribute light in different directions. In Figure
17F, the distal tip
of the light distributing element 501 has been cut to form two surfaces that
converge at a line
that runs horizontal to the figure. The light distribution element 501
refracts and distributes
the light in a direction perpendicular to the surfaces, thereby distributing
the light up and
down. Figure 17G shows the light distributing element 501 of Figure 17F
rotated 90 degrees,
thereby distributing light left and right. Figure 17H shows the light
distributing clement 501
rotated between the positions of Figures 17F and 17G, thereby distributing
light to the upper
left and lower right of the figure.
[0099] The light distributing elements 501 depicted in Figures 17A-17H can
be
employed to distribute light from an LED light source in a variety of
different distribution
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patterns. Figures 18A-181-1 show an embodiment of a light distributing element
501 in
operation so as to show the light distribution pattern.
[00100] Figures 18A-18C provide various views one example of a light
distribution
element for use in connection with a movable barrier operator. In Figures 18A-
18C, the light
distribution element is essentially a round rod, where the tip of the rod has
been cut to form a
two-sided "rooftop" shape. The tip of the light distribution element is
generally sliced from
the center outwards at an angle, forming refraction surfaces configured to
distribute light
away from the surfaces.
[00101] Figures 18D-18H show the light distribution patterns generated by
the light
distribution element of Figures 18A-18C. As shown, the light distribution
element distributes
light to the sides of the element, generally perpendicular to the two surfaces
of the tip of the
light distributing element. Figures 18G and 18H show how light is distributed
to a surface
that is perpendicular to the optic axis of the light distributing element.
[00102] Figure 19A is another example of a light distribution element for
use in
connection with a movable barrier operator. In Figure 19A, the light
distribution element is
essentially a round rod, where the tip of the rod has been cut to form three
sides converging
at a center point. Figure 19B shows the light distribution pattern generated
by the light
distributing element of Figure 19A. As shown, the light distribution pattern
scatters light
generally to three regions extending away from the light distribution element,
separated by
about 1200
.
[00103] The present disclosure describes preferred embodiments and examples
of the
present technology. Reference throughout this specification to "one
embodiment," "an
embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure,
or characteristic
described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one
embodiment of the
present invention. The embodiments shown in the drawings, if any, and as
described above
are merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of
the invention.
Moreover, those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of
modifications,
alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described
embodiments
without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims,
and that such
29
modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within
the ambit of
the inventive concept. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment,"
"in an
embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do
not necessarily,
refer to the same embodiment.
CA 2910093 2020-10-20
