Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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OPTIC ASSEMBLIES AND FIXTURES COMPRISING THE SAME
FIELD
The present invention relates to optical devices and, in particular, to
lighting devices
employing optical inserts in conjunction with waveguide optics to provide
desired light
distributions.
BACKGROUND
A waveguide optic mixes and directs light emitted by one or more light
sources, such as
one or more packaged or unpackaged light emitting diode (LED) chips. A typical
waveguide
optic includes a waveguide body and one or more extraction elements. The
extraction element(s)
determine how light is removed by controlling where and in what direction the
light exits the
waveguide. By appropriately shaping waveguide surfaces, one can control the
flow of light
across the extraction element(s). Selecting the spacing, shape and other
characteristic(s) of the
extraction elements affects the appearance of the waveguide and its resulting
angular distribution
of emitted light and efficiency.
The ability to tightly control and shape the distribution of emitted light
makes waveguide
optics an attractive option for lighting fixtures. However, many lighting
fixtures include
standard or universal components designed to simplify manufacturing and
enhance cost
efficiencies. Lighting fixtures, such as sidewalk, roadway and/or, parking lot
fixtures, often
employ a standard housing for optical components. In some cases, standard
optical housings are
incompatible with waveguide optics. For example, the standard housings can
negatively alter the
lighting distribution of a waveguide optic, thereby precluding use of the
waveguide optic with
the standard housing for a desired application. For example, a standard optic
housing can be
employed in roadside fixtures as well as fixtures mounted at or near the
roadway center. Design
of the standard optic housing may be compatible with waveguide optics
providing a Type II or
Type III distribution while disrupting waveguide optics of Type V
distribution.
SUMMARY
In view of these disadvantages, waveguide optics and associated optic
assemblies are
provided which can provide desired lighting distributions including, but not
limited to, high
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angle lighting distributions. In some embodiments, for example, lighting
devices described
herein comprise optic assemblies configured to emit symmetric distributions of
light meeting the
requirements of Type V lighting distributions from existing optic housing
designs and form
factors.
Briefly, a lighting device comprises an optic housing, an optical insert
positioned in the
optic housing, and a waveguide optic positioned in the optical insert. The
waveguide optic
includes a light extraction face and at least two sets of light extraction
elements disposed over the
light extraction face. The light extraction elements can include one or more
non-linear segments,
such as semi-elliptical or arcuate extraction segments. In some embodiments,
the at least two
sets of light extraction elements are disposed on opposing sides of an axis of
symmetry. By
extracting light using the optic assemblies described herein, the waveguide
optic and reflective
optical insert can emit a desired lighting distribution independent of optic
housing design. The
desired lighting distribution may include a symmetric distribution having a
high output flux.
In another aspect, waveguide optics for optic assemblies are provided. A
waveguide
optic comprises a plurality of sidewalls, a light extraction face disposed
between the plurality of
sidewalls, and at least two sets of light extraction elements disposed over
the light extraction
face. As described herein, the light extraction elements of the sets can
include one or more non-
linear segments, such as semi-elliptical or arcuate extraction segments. Light
extraction
elements can receive light directly from a light input surface and/or from at
least one light
deflection surface of the waveguide optic. Moreover, the sets of light
extraction elements can be
positioned on opposing sides of an axis of symmetry. Alternatively, the sets
of light extraction
elements are asymmetrical relative to one another over the light extraction
face.
In a further aspect, a waveguide optic of an optic assembly is provided. The
waveguide
optic generates a symmetric distribution of light via extracting light
backwards (i.e., in a
preferential direction towards a point of entry). The waveguide optic
comprises a front face
having a plurality of light extraction elements disposed therein and a rear
face that is opposite the
front face. An entrance geometry is defined between the front and rear face. A
plurality of light
emitting diodes (LEDs) faces the entrance geometry. The LEDs emit light
towards the entrance
geometry in a first direction, and the plurality of light extraction elements
extract the light in a
second direction that at least partially opposes the first direction.
These and other embodiments are described further in the following detailed
description.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. lA illustrates redirection of light through a schematic waveguide optic
by a
reflective sidewall of an optical insert according to one embodiment.
FIGs. IB-1G illustrate redirection and extraction of light through a waveguide
optic
according to some embodiments.
FIG. 2A illustrates an exploded view of an optic assembly of a lighting device
according
to some embodiments.
FIGs. 2B-2F illustrate respective rear perspective, sectional, detail, and
multiple
perspective bottom views of an optic assembly of a lighting device according
to some
embodiments.
FIGs. 3A-3C illustrate respective rear perspective, top plan, and side views
of an optical
insert employed in the optic assembly according to some embodiments.
FIG. 3D illustrates a reflective sleeve provided as a separate piece for
coupling with the
optical insert according to some embodiments.
FIGs. 4-5 illustrate lighting distributions of the optic assembly of FIG. 2
according to
some embodiments.
FIGs. 6A-8F illustrate various waveguide optics of an optic assembly of a
lighting device
according to some embodiments.
FIGs. 9A-9C illustrate integration of an optic assembly into a luminaire
according to
some embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments described herein can be understood more readily by reference to
the
following detailed description and examples and their previous and following
descriptions.
Elements, devices, and methods described herein, however, are not limited to
the specific
embodiments presented in the detailed description and examples. It should be
recognized that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of the present
subject matter.
Numerous modifications and adaptations will be readily apparent to those of
skill in the art
without departing from the subject matter disclosed herein.
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It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used
herein to
describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these
terms. These terms are
only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first
element could be termed
a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first
element, without
.. departing from the subject matter of the present disclosure. As used
herein, the term "and/or"
includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed
items.
It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region, or
substrate is referred
to as being "on" or extending "onto" another element, it can be directly on or
extend directly
onto the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In
contrast, when an
element is referred to as being "directly on" or extending "directly onto"
another element, there
are no intervening elements present. Likewise, it will be understood that when
an element such
as a layer, region, or substrate is referred to as being "over" or extending
"over" another element,
it can be directly over or extend directly over the other element or
intervening elements may also
be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly
over" or extending
"directly over" another element, there are no intervening elements present. It
will also be
understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or
"coupled" to another
element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or
intervening elements
may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly
connected" or
"directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements
present.
Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or
"horizontal" or
"vertical" may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element,
layer, or region to
another element, layer, or region as illustrated in the Figures. It will be
understood that these
terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different
orientations of the device in
addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular
embodiments only
and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the
singular forms "a," "an"
and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context
clearly indicates
otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises,"
"comprising," "includes,"
and/or "including" when used herein specify the presence of stated features,
integers, steps,
operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or
addition of one or
more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or
groups thereof.
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Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms)
used herein
have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the
art to which this
disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein
should be interpreted as
having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this
specification and the
relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal
sense unless expressly so
defined herein.
In one aspect, lighting devices are described herein. A lighting device
employs an optic
assembly comprising an optic housing, an optical insert positioned in the
optic housing, and a
waveguide optic positioned in the optical insert. Waveguide lighting fixtures
comprise or are
formed from the lighting devices descried herein. In some embodiments, the
waveguide lighting
fixtures and devices described herein are employed as outdoor lighting
products for outdoor
lighting applications.
A waveguide optic employed in lighting devices and fixtures comprises a light
extraction
face and at least two sets of light extraction elements disposed over the
light extraction face. The
light extraction elements can include one or more non-linear segments, such as
semi-elliptical or
arcuate extraction segments. As described further herein, light extraction
elements can receive
light directly from a light input surface and/or from at least one light
deflection surface of the
waveguide optic. A light deflection surface may support light redirection by
total internal
reflection. Alternatively, a light deflection surface may comprise a
specularly reflective coating.
In some embodiments, the sets of light extraction elements are symmetrical
with one
another over the light extraction face. In being symmetrical, the waveguide
optic can comprise
one or more axes of symmetry. For example, two sets of light extraction
elements can be
positioned on opposing sides of at least one axis of symmetry. The two sets of
light extraction
elements can also be disposed on opposing sides of at least two axes of
symmetry, one axis of
symmetry being perpendicular to the light extraction face and another axis of
symmetry being
parallel to the light extraction face. Alternatively, the sets of light
extraction elements can be
asymmetrical relative to one another over the light extraction face.
The light passing through a given waveguide optic can be extracted at various
angles
depending on the desired distribution (e.g., Type V, Type VI, Type III, Type
II, or others). In
some embodiments, light is extracted from the waveguide optic at angles
greater than 60 degrees
relative to nadir for providing desired distributions of light. Light can also
be extracted from the
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waveguide optic at angles less than 60 degrees relative to nadir for providing
desired
distributions of light. The lighting distributions emitted by waveguide optics
herein can be
symmetric about at least one axis of symmetry on a surface or plane opposing
the extraction face
and/or a front or top plane of the waveguide optic.
Notably, the waveguide optic in optic assemblies described herein is
interchangeable,
such that a single lighting device can be configured to emit lighting
distributions meeting the
requirements of Type II, Type III, Type IV, Type V and/or other types of
lighting distributions.
Thus, the optic assemblies described herein can enable use of multiple
waveguide optics with an
optical housing having a structure and/or design formerly considered
incompatible with the
intended light distribution from the waveguide optic. Accordingly, a standard
or universal optic
housing or optic box can be provided for optic assemblies of various
applications where specific
lighting distributions are controlled by selection of the waveguide optic and
optical insert.
FIG. lA illustrates redirection and extraction of light by a waveguide optic
in conjunction
with an optical insert according to some embodiments. In the embodiment of
FIG. 1A, a lighting
device 10 comprises an optical insert 12 and a waveguide optic 14 (also
referred to as a
"waveguide lens"). The waveguide optic 14 includes at least a first light
extracting portion or
region 16A and a second light extracting portion or region 16B connected by a
waveguide body
15. The first and second light extracting regions 16A and 16B are
symmetrically disposed about
an axis of symmetry located along the centerline CL of device 10.
Alternatively, first and second
light extracting regions 16A and 16B are asymmetrical relative to one another
over the light
extraction face 17 and/or the centerline CL of device 10. The waveguide optic
14 is configured
to extract light such that a resultant symmetric distribution D of light is
emitted on or over a
surface S that faces or opposes the extraction face 17 of the waveguide optic
14. Notably, the
light distribution D is extracted at wide angles (i.e., > 60') and is
rotationally symmetric in a top
(plan) view.
As FIG. lA further illustrates, the device 10 facilitates efficient light
extraction, in part,
by reflecting and/or redirecting stray or leaking rays of light through the
waveguide optic 14 for
extraction via light extraction regions 16A and 16B. The waveguide optic 14
includes an
entrance geometry (not shown in this view) that separates light being emitted
by a plurality of
LEDs in two directions as it enters the optic 14. The separated light rays are
collimated in each
direction (i.e., as Li, L2) upon entering the optic 14. A first group of light
Li is extracted directly
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by waveguide surfaces or elements of the waveguide optic at a first angle 01,
which is greater
than about 600. A second group of light L2 (i.e., which is not initially
extracted directly via light
extraction regions 16A and 16B) is reflected and/or redirected by the optic
insert 12. The second
group of light L2 is then redirected to the light extraction regions 16A and
16B and subsequently
extracted at a second angle 02, which is also a wide angle greater than about
60 .
In some aspects, the first group of light Li is directly extracted from the
device 10 via
reflective sidewalls or surfaces 18A, 18B of the respective first and second
light extracting
regions 16A and 16B. Such surfaces 18A and 18B may include, for example,
surfaces of
extraction elements, sidewalls, or facets disposed in the light extracting
regions 16A and 16B.
The first group of light Li exits the extraction face 17 of the waveguide
optic 14 at a desired
angle Olin a preferential direction.
Further, the second group of light L2 is reflected by one or more reflective
sidewalls 19A
of the optic insert that surround the waveguide optic 14. The second group of
light L2 is reflected
by the sidewalls 19A prior to extraction by the waveguide optic 14. The second
group of light L2
is then extracted from the waveguide optic 14 at desired angles 02. The one or
more reflective
sidewalls 19A of the optical insert 12 can redirect light exiting surfaces or
sidewalls of the
waveguide optic back into the body for further redirection and extraction by
surfaces of the
extraction face 17. In certain embodiments, the insert sidewalls 19A are
perpendicular or
substantially perpendicular to a bottom floor or base 19B of the insert 12,
which contributes to
extraction of light at such wide angles. As described in more detail below,
the optical insert 12
can also comprise one or more stepped or terraced walls (not shown in FIG.
1A), which are also
perpendicular to the base 19B for improved extraction of light at wide angles.
Further, and
although not shown in this view, the waveguide optic 14 can also include one
or more light
redirection elements opposing the light extraction elements, which are also
used to redirect light
through optic 14.
The combined optical insert 12 and waveguide optic 14 are configured to emit a
desired
distribution D of light that is symmetric about at least one axis of symmetry.
The distribution D
of light may include light meeting the requirements of a Type II, Type III,
Type IV, or Type V
distribution, depending on the waveguide optic 14 and/or the optical insert 12
being selected and
used. The light L1, L2 passes through the extraction face 17 of the waveguide
optic 14 at the
desired angles 01, 02 relative to a respective axis Z1, Z2 that is normal to
the extraction face 17.
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In some embodiments, the one or more reflective sidewalls 19A direct a first
portion of
the light to pass through the extraction face 17 at desired angles while also
redirecting a second
portion of light back into the waveguide body for further redirection and
extraction by surfaces
(e.g., element surfaces, facets, sidewalls, etc.) of the extraction face 17.
The reflective sidewalls
19A of the optical insert 12 can redirect light emitted from portions of the
waveguide optic 14 to
provide peak emission from the lighting device 10 at angles (01, 02) greater
than 60 degrees
relative to nadir or less than 60 degrees relative to nadir.
As described in more detail below, one or more light extraction elements are
arranged on,
over, and/or in the light extracting regions 16A, 16B of the waveguide optic
14. The extraction
elements include reflective surfaces or faces, which, in some aspect are
specularly reflective or
provide total internal reflection (TIR) of light. Some light rays encounter
the extraction elements
of the waveguide optic and become extracted from the extraction face directly
by virtue of
meeting the TIR requirements. Light rays failing to meet the TIR requirements
can leak out of
the waveguide optic and be redirected through the waveguide optic via the
optical insert,
housing, and/or redirection facets or elements disposed on a lower/rear
portion of the waveguide
optic. An optional recycling feature may also be disposed on a lower (rear)
face of the
waveguide optic 14 for redirecting leaking light rays back to the upper
(front) face for extraction
by the extraction elements.
Arrangement of extraction elements in the light extracting portions or 16A,
16B of the
waveguide optic 14 can be governed by several considerations including but not
limited to, the
shape of the desired lighting distribution D, the size of the desired lighting
distribution D, the
desired luminous output, and/or the location or position of the desired
lighting distribution D
relative to the position of device 10. The extraction elements disposed in
light extracting regions
16A and 16B may include linear elements, non-linear elements, or combinations
of linear and
non-linear elements (i.e., as viewed in a plan view in the plane of the
extraction face). Where
used, the non-linear elements may be substantially curved, elliptical, semi-
elliptical, rounded,
semicircular, helical, arcuate, arranged in regular shapes, and/or arranged in
inegular shapes.
The faces of the linear and non-linear elements may be tapered, curved,
faceted, non-faceted,
and/or substantially vertical (i.e., orthogonal) relative to the light
extraction face. The
arrangement of elements in each light extracting region 16A and 16B may be
asymmetric,
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symmetric about at least one line of symmetry, symmetric about at least two
lines of symmetry,
or symmetric about more than two lines of symmetry.
The optical insert 12 is disposed around the waveguide optic 14, fully or
partially, and is
positioned in between the waveguide optic 14 and an optic housing (also
referred to as an "optic
box"). The optical insert 12 is comprised of reflective sidewalls 19A and a
reflective base 19B
that collectively form a reflective compartment configured to receive the
waveguide optic 14.
Arrangement of the reflective sidewalls 19A of the optical insert 12 relative
to sidewalls of the
waveguide optic 14 can be governed by several considerations including, but
not limited to, the
shape and light distribution properties of the waveguide optic 14, various
structural and design
features of the optic housing, and/or the desired light distribution of the
lighting device 10.
In some embodiments, for example and as described in detail below, the optic
housing
comprises one or more reflective walls and base surfaces that work in
conjunction with reflective
sidewalls 19A and base 19B of the optical insert 12. In such embodiments, the
optical insert 12
need not include reflective sidewalls that overlap with reflective surfaces or
structures of the
optical housing. For example, the optical housing can comprise a reflective
base wall and/or
sidewalls that work in conjunction with the reflective sidewalls 19A of the
optical insert 12 to
redirect light exiting the waveguide optic 14.
FIGs. 1B-1C illustrate respective front perspective and sectional views of a
waveguide
optic, generally designated 14A, which illustrates redirection and extraction
of light entering the
optic at a first entry point Xl. FIGs. 1D-1G illustrate respective front
perspective, rear
perspective, side, and sectional views of the waveguide optic 14A, which
illustrates redirection
and extraction of light entering the optic at a second entry point X2. The
redirection and
extraction of light is shown for one-half of the optic 14A in FIGs. 1B to 1G
for illustration
purposes only, so that the remaining features of the optic 14A in the various
views are visible
.. and unobstructed. As FIGs. 1B-I G illustrate, light entering the optic at
different points (i.e., Xi,
X2) can be extracted at different angles. The overall pattern of light
extracted by opposing light
extraction regions El and E2 is symmetric.
Referring now in general to FIGs. 1B and 1C, the waveguide optic 14A comprises
a front
face or side Si and a rear face or side S2 opposite the front side. A
plurality of light extracting
regions is defined on, over, and/or within the front side Si of the waveguide
optic 14A. For
example, at least a first light extracting region El and a second light
extracting region E2 are
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formed and/or otherwise defined in the first side S1 of the waveguide optic
14A. Each of the first
and second light extracting regions Ei, E2 comprises one or more light
extracting features or
elements Ex.
Notably, the first and second light extracting regions Ei and E2 are
symmetrically
disposed about at least one axis of symmetry located along the centerline CL
of optic 14A. The
individual light extracting elements Ex are also symmetrically disposed about
the axis of
symmetry located along the centerline CL. In alternative embodiments, the
first and second light
extracting regions Ei and E2 and/or the extracting elements Ex in each region
are asymmetrical
relative to one another over the first side Siof the optic 14A.
The waveguide optic 14A is configured to extract a symmetric distribution of
light by
virtue of the symmetrically disposed extracting elements Ex in regions Ei and
E2. Notably, the
waveguide optic 14A is configured to extract a symmetric distribution of light
at wide angles
(i.e., > 600), so that the resultant distribution is rotationally symmetric in
a plan view. As FIG.
1B further illustrates, light is emitted by a light source (e.g., an LED, not
shown) and enters the
waveguide optic 14A at a first entry point Xi, where the light is separated
into two portions and
two directions via the entrance geometry G of the optic 14A. The entrance
geometry is disposed
between and/or defined between the first and second sides Si, 52 of the optic.
The light entering
the optic 14A is collimated on a horizontal plane and symmetrically extracted
(e.g., backwards)
on a vertical plane at wide angles. The entrance geometry G has a plurality of
light input surfaces
that are substantially or generally parabolic or wedge-shaped in cross-
section, so that the LED
light is separated evenly in two different portions and directions as it
enters the waveguide optic.
A first group (portion) of light L'i propagating through the waveguide optic
14A is
extracted in a backward direction (i.e., backward relative to the direction it
enters the optic),
directly, by a first, non-linear (e.g., curved) extracting element Ex. A
second group (portion) of
light L2 propagating through the waveguide optic 14A is reflected and/or
redirected through the
optic prior to extraction. For example, the second group of light L2 may
include stray and/or
leaking rays of light that propagate through the optic via reflection and/or
redirection by one or
more TIR surfaces of one or more light redirecting elements (facets) formed in
the optic 14A.
Alternatively, the second group of light L'2 may be reflected and/or
redirected by the optical
insert (i.e., 12, FIG. 1A) that encases the waveguide optic 14A. The waveguide
optic 14A may
include one or more redirecting facets on the rear side S2 of for directing
the second group of
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light L'2 back towards the extracting elements Ex on the front side Si for
backward extraction.
Each extracting region Ei and E2 may include an optional rear facing element
ER that is
oppositely curved and/or oriented with respect to the remaining extraction
elements, for the
efficient backward extraction of light L'2. That is, the rear facing elements
ER facilitate efficient
backward extraction of light to a specific direction (i.e., a preferential
direction) on the horizontal
plane.
As FIG. 1C illustrates, the waveguide optic 14A further comprises an
extraction face 17A
formed in the front side Si thereof. Notably, light enters the optic 14A in a
first direction D1, and
is extracted from the extraction face 17A in a second, preferential direction
D2, which is
opposite and/or directed substantially backwards relative to the first
direction Dl. The light is
extracted at wide angles 0'1, 02 that are greater than about 60 . The
waveguide optic 14A is
configured to direct light towards the preferential direction D2, which is at
least somewhat back
towards the first point of entry Xi (FIG, 1B). Light enters the optic 1 4A
proximate the first point
of entry Xi, such that some of the light is directly extracted (e.g., Li) in
the preferential direction
D2 and other light (e.g., L'2) is redirected prior to extraction in the
preferential direction D2.
FIGs. 1D-1G illustrates the extraction of light entering the waveguide optic
14A at a
second entry point X2 that is different than the entry point shown in FIGs. 1B
and 1C. Light
entering the waveguide optic 14A at the second entry point X2 is separated
into different portions
of light being aimed in different directions by the entrance geometry G. For
example, a first
portion of light L"i propagating through the waveguide optic 14A is directly
extracted by a light
extracting element Ex. A second portion of light L"2 propagating through the
waveguide optic
14A is redirected through the optic 14A prior to extraction. The second
portion of light L"2 can
be redirected by at least one light redirecting element or facet (i.e., RH,
FIG. 1E) prior to
extraction by one of the light extracting elements Ex.
FIG. lE is a rear face or side S2 of the optic 14A that opposes the first,
front side Si. A
plurality of light redirecting facets RF1 (also referred to as light
redirecting elements) are
disposed on or over the second side S2. An optional recycling feature RF2 may
also be disposed
around portions of the redirecting facets RF1. The light redirecting facets
RF1 and recycling
feature RF2 can collectively redirect rays of light through the optic 14A via
reflection and/or
redirection of the light by one or more TIR surfaces thereof. That is, least
some of the second
portion of light L"2 can propagate to the rear side S2 and be redirected from
the rear side S2 to the
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front side Si via TIR surfaces of redirecting facets RF1 and/or recycling
feature RF2. The
redirected light is then extracted from the optic 14A via light extracting
elements Ex. Notably,
at least some of the light (i.e., the first L"i or second portion L"2 of
light) is extracted at least
partially backwards in a direction aimed back towards entrance geometry G and
second point of
entry X2.
FIG. 1F is a side view of the optic 14A as viewed along the direction
indicated in FIG.
1D and FIG. 1G is a sectional view of the optic 14A. As these figures
collectively illustrate, the
waveguide optic 14A is configured to extract wide angles (i.e., > 60 ) of
light, so that the
resultant distribution is rotationally symmetric in a plan view. Light
entering the optic 14A at the
second entry point X2 of the entrance geometry G is extracted from the first
side Si of the optic
in a preferential direction, which is at least partially backwards relative to
the entrance geometry
G and second entry point X2. The light is extracted at wide angles 0"1, O"
that are greater than
about 60 relative to a respective axis Z"1, Z"2 that is normal to the
extraction face of the optic
14A. Light enters the optic 14A proximate the second entry point X2. Some of
the light is
directly extracted (e.g., first portion L"i) in the preferential direction via
extracting elements Ex,
while other light (e.g., second portion L"2) is redirected via redirecting or
recycling elements
(i.e., RFi, RF2) disposed on the second side 52 of the optic 14A prior to
extraction in the
preferential direction.
In some embodiments, the waveguide optics, devices, and fixtures described
herein are
configured to emit light having a distribution that meets the requirements of
a Type V
distribution and an output of at least 24,000 lumens for street and area
lighting applications. That
is, a single lighting device or fixture can emit a Type V distribution having
an output of at least
24,000 lumens. The waveguide optic is interchangeable in the fixture, and can
also be used in a
housing that also supports optics emitting light meeting the requirements of
Type II, Type III,
and/or Type IV distributions. The waveguide optics and optical inserts
described herein emit
specific lighting distributions, and are employed in optic assemblies that are
further comprised of
one or more (optional) reflective sleeves and/or an optic housing. The sleeves
match the
waveguide entrance geometry (e.g., a wedge or parabolic shape) for
facilitating improved optical
performance and efficiency by directing escaping light rays back into the
waveguide optic.
Further, light emitting diode (LED) chips, packages, or components (i.e.,
generally
referred to as "LEDs") are coupled to the optic assembly at multiple light
coupling regions of the
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waveguide optic. The light coupling regions include an entrance geometry
comprised of one or
more parabolic or wedge-shaped light input surfaces. The assembly will emit a
symmetric
distribution of light in a plane perpendicular to the light coupling faces, or
portions thereof,
where the rays of light are extracted orthogonally with respect to the light
input surfaces via
extraction facets of the extraction elements of the waveguide optic.
The combination of the TIR surfaces of the extraction elements, the
redirection elements
or facets, and the optic insert can improve the optical distribution. The
overall optical efficiency
increases with increasing reflectance of insert. For example, an insert having
a reflectance of
greater than 97% gives an overall optical efficiency about 88%. The reflection
of light by the
TIR surfaces of the extraction elements and the redirection and re-reflection
of light via
redirection elements and/or the optical insert increases the overall
efficiency of the waveguide
optic and devices employing the same to at least 85-99.9%, or any subrange
therebetween (e.g.,
an efficiency of 85-95%, 94-98%, 92-98%, etc.). The overall efficiency is a
percentage
calculated by dividing the amount of light extracted from the waveguide optic
by the amount of
light injected into the waveguide optic.
The high output flux provided by the devices and fixtures described herein can
further be
attributed to at least two groups of LEDs. Each group of LEDs is provided in
an array facing a
respective light extracting region of the waveguide optic. The groups of LEDs
and light
extracting regions can be symmetrically disposed (i.e., symmetric) about at
least one axis of
symmetry for providing a symmetric distribution of light. Alternatively,
groups of LEDs are
asymmetrical relative to a centerline of the device. More than two groups of
LEDs and light
extracting regions may be provided per lighting device and/or fixture as
described herein. For
example, two groups of LEDs and light extracting regions may be provided per
waveguide optic,
three groups of LEDs and light extracting regions may be provided per
waveguide optic, four
groups of LEDs and light extracting regions may be provided per waveguide
optic, etc. In certain
embodiments, an even number (i.e., numbers that are a multiple of two) of
groups of LEDs and
light extracting regions are provided per waveguide optic.
The light entering the waveguide optic is separated into two directions via
the entrance
geometry of each light coupling region. The light is collimated on a
horizontal plane and
symmetrically extracted on a vertical plane at wide angles. The entrance
geometry has a plurality
of light input surfaces that are substantially or generally parabolic or wedge-
shaped in cross-
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section, so that the LED light is separated evenly in two different directions
as it enters the
waveguide optic. The separated light rays are collimated in each direction. In
some
embodiments, the parabolic or wedge-shaped portions of the entrance geometry
have a plurality
of segments or facets so that the light can be more efficiently collimated.
The waveguide optics described herein comprise and be formed from any suitable
optical
material consistent with the instant disclosure, such as, for example, acrylic
(polymethyl
methacrylate (PMMA)), nylon, polycarbonate, polyurethane, silicone, glass,
cyclic olefin
copolymers, synthetic polymers, an optical liquid and/or combinations thereof,
possibly in a
layered or laminate arrangement, for achieving a desired effect and/or
appearance. The
waveguide optics may be formed as a lens via molding (e.g., injection
molding), 3D printing,
extruding, or any other suitable process consistent with the instant
disclosure. Further and in
certain embodiments, the waveguide optics described herein are formed from
transparent
materials, whereby the extraction, reflection, and/or redirection of light in
and/or through the
optics occurs by TIR. Alternatively, surfaces of one or more of the
extraction, reflection, and/or
redirection features may be made specularly reflective, for example, by adding
an (optional)
specularly reflective sheet of material or deposition of a metal, where
desired. The waveguide
optics described herein can be between 5 and 50 mm thick, or any subrange
therebetween (e.g.,
between 5 and 10 mm thick, between 10 and 15 mm thick, between 10 and 20 mm
thick, etc.).
In certain embodiments, the waveguide is at least 12 mm thick for
accommodating multiple rows
of light emitters.
The foregoing architectures and operational principles of the waveguide optic,
associated
optical insert and optic housing are further described with reference to the
non-limiting
embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2A-9C.
FIG. 2A is an exploded view of an optic assembly generally designated 20 of a
lighting
device according to some embodiments. The optic assembly 20 comprises an optic
housing 30,
an optical insert 50, optional sleeves 60, and a waveguide optic 70. Notably,
the waveguide optic
70 includes a plurality of light extracting regions 80A, 80B. In some
embodiments, the
waveguide optic 70 includes symmetric light extracting regions 80A, 80B
configured to extract a
symmetric distribution of light. Alternatively, the sets light extracting
regions 80A, 80B are
asymmetrical relative to one another over the waveguide optic 70. The
waveguide optic 70
and/or optical insert 50 are interchangeably disposed (e.g., interchangeable
singly or combined)
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in optic housing 30 so that a single assembly 20 can advantageously emit
different lighting
distributions including, but not limited to, Type II, Type III, Type IV, and
Type V lighting
distributions.
Turning now specific components of optic housings 30 described herein and
referring to
FIGs. 2A-2F, the optic housings 30 comprise an upper face 32, a lower face 34
and a
compartment 35 defined therebetween. The upper face 34 is configured to
contact and/or engage
portions of the optical insert 50. The lower face 34 is configured to contact
and/or engage
portions of a lighting fixture (see e.g., FIG. 9B).
The compartment 35 is configured to receive the optical insert 50 and is
comprised of one
or more sidewalls 38 and a base wall 40. The sidewalls 38 and base wall 40 can
be, but do not
have to be diffusely reflective, specularly reflective, or a combination of
diffusely and specularly
reflective materials. In some embodiments, the base wall 40 is a single,
continuous wall that is
orthogonal to the upper face 32 of the housing and is referred to as a "flat"
housing. In other
embodiments, the base wall 40 is comprised of multiple walls or wall segments,
each wall being
disposed at one or more angle(s) with respect to at least one other wall and
the upper face 32.
In this embodiment, the optic housing 30 and is referred to as "rear wedged"
housing. Housing
30 can comprise a flat housing or a rear wedged housing for conforming to the
size(s) and/or
shape(s) of the insert 50 and/or waveguide optic 70 collectively positioned
therein.
The optic housing 30 can comprise one or more sidewall apertures 42 disposed
in a first
side or end 30A of the housing or more sidewall apertures 42 disposed in a
second side or end
30B of the housing. The sidewall apertures 42 are configured to receive
portions of a light
coupling region 90 therethrough, so that LEDs (i.e., 420, FIG. 9B) can
interface with the light
coupling region 90 as described in more detail below.
The optic assembly 20 can be attached and/or secured to a lighting fixture
(i.e., 400,
FIGs. 9A-9C) via interfacing one or more fasteners with one or more of a
plurality of side
connecting regions 44 and a center connecting region 45 of housing 30. For
example, side and
central connecting regions 44, 45 can comprise threaded or non-threaded bores
for receiving and
securing one or more pins, screws, bolts, or other types of fasteners therein
thereby securing the
optic assembly 20 to a fixture (i.e., 400, FIG. 9A).
Turning now specific components of optical inserts 50 described herein and
still referring
in general to FIGs. 2A-2F, such inserts 50 can be positioned in the
compartment 35 of optic
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housing 30. The optical insert 50 comprises a compartment 52 configured to
receive the
waveguide optic 70. The compartment 52 is defined between a top surface 54 and
a bottom
surface 55 and between a front face 58 and a rear face 59. The compartment 52
is further
defined by a plurality of reflective sidewalls 53A and a reflective base wall
(i.e., 53B, FIG. 3A).
The reflective sidewalls 53A and reflective base wall 53B (i.e., 53B, FIG. 3A)
define a reflective
compartment in which the waveguide optic 70 is positioned.
The optical insert 50 can further comprise one or more sidewall apertures 56
disposed in
a first side or end 50A of the insert and one or more sidewall apertures 56
disposed in a second
side or end 50B of the insert. The sidewall apertures 56 permit light coupling
regions 90 of the
waveguide optic 70 to interface with a light source, such as a plurality of
LEDs (i.e., 420, FIG.
9B). The light coupling region 90 of the waveguide optic 70 can extend through
each sidewall
aperture 56 and interface directly with the LEDs (i.e., 420, FIG. 9B).
Further, the reflective sidewalls 53A of optical insert 50 include ledges or
terraces 57 that
match the external surfaces and/or sidewall arrangement of the waveguide optic
70. Terracing
the reflective sidewalls 53A can enable the insert 50 to efficiently maximize
the use of narrow
and/or limited space between the optic housing 30 and waveguide optic 70 while
maintaining
desired lighting distributions and optical performance. Terracing the
reflective sidewalls 53A
also provides a variety of design options when single or non-terraced
reflective wall(s) are not
suitable or incompatible with structural features of the optic housing 30
and/or waveguide optic
70. Terracing the reflective sidewalls positions the sidewalls perpendicular
to the reflector floor
so that the light rays can travel in wide angles (e.g., 01 and 02, FIG. 1A)
during extraction. For
example, terracing the reflective sidewalls advantageously provides light rays
in a wide v-angle
on the top of waveguide optic. This feature maximizes use of the narrow space
between the
waveguide optic and optic insert while maintaining the large v-angle. As noted
above, two or
more groups of light rays propagate through the waveguide optics and devices
described herein
in a wide V-angle for extraction. One group of light rays is extracted from
the waveguide
directly, without encountering the optic insert. The other group of light rays
is made up of
escaping or reflected rays, which encounter optic insert and are redirected by
the terraced sides.
In some embodiments, the optical inserts 50 comprise one or more specular
reflector
films disposed on or over the reflective sidewalls 53A and/or base wall (53B,
FIG. 3A),
including ESR films, Such films are commercially available from 3M of St.
Paul, MN. In other
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embodiments, an optical inserts described herein can be thermoformed directly
from a specularly
reflective sheet. Optical inserts 50 may also be thermoformed from non-
specularly reflective
materials, such as from a thermoplastic sheet, and subsequently metallized to
provide specularly
reflective sidewall(s) and base wall. Suitable metals for metallization
processes include silver
and aluminum.
In further embodiments, reflective sidewalls 53A and/or the reflective base
(i.e., 53B,
FIG. 3A) can be formed of a combination of specularly reflective sheets and
metallized surfaces.
For example, reflective sidewalls 53A of the optical insert can comprise
metallized surfaces
while the base wall (i.e., 53B, FIG. 3A) and reflective sleeves 60 comprise
ESR film. Any
combination of the metallized surfaces and specularly reflective film are
contemplated for the
optical insert. Specific features and elements of the optical insert 50 are
detailed in United States
Patent Application Serial No. 15/347,413 entitled "Optical Inserts and
Waveguide Fixtures
Comprising the Same" by Lim et al. (Cree docket no. P2644US1), which is
incorporated herein
by reference in the entirety.
The waveguide optic 70 is positionable in the optical insert 50. The waveguide
optic 70
comprises a waveguide body 72 and a light extraction face 76 disposed on,
over, and/or within
portions of the body 72. The light extraction face 76 forms an upper or front
face of the
waveguide optic 70 and is disposed between a plurality of sidewalls 71. The
waveguide optic 70
further comprises a light redirecting face 96 opposite the light extraction
face 76, which forms a
lower or rear surface. The size and shape of light extraction face 76 is
defined by the plurality of
sidewalls 71. The waveguide optic 70 includes at least a first light
extracting block or region
80A located proximate a first side or end 70A of the optic and a second light
extracting block or
region 80B located proximate a second side or end 70B of the optic. The first
and second light
extracting regions 80A and 8011 are connected to each other by the waveguide
body 72. For
example and in some embodiments, the waveguide body 72 includes a flange that
connects the
first and second light extracting regions 80A and 80B, respectively.
Still referring to FIGs. 2A-2F in general, the waveguide optic 70 further
comprises a light
coupling region 90 disposed on opposing ends 70A, 7013 of the optic. Each
light coupling region
90 opposes, faces, and/or is disposed proximate a respective light extracting
region 80A, 80B of
the optic. For example, a first light coupling region 90 opposes, faces,
and/or is located
proximate the first light extracting region 80A and a second light coupling
region 90 opposes,
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faces, and/or is located proximate the second light extracting region 80B.
Each light extracting
region 80A, 80B comprises a plurality of light extraction elements 86. The
first light coupling
region 90 is disposed proximate a first set Si (FIG. 2B) of light extraction
elements 86 and a
second light coupling region 90 is disposed proximate a second set 52 (FIG.
2B) of light
extraction elements 86. More than two light extracting regions (i.e., 80A,
80B) and respective
light coupling regions 90 can be provided per assembly 20, where desired. In
certain
embodiments, an even number of light extracting regions (i.e., 80A, 80B) and
respective light
coupling regions 90 are provided per waveguide optic 70 for outputting a
symmetric light
distribution.
Each light coupling region 90 comprises a non-linear entrance geometry. The
non-linear
entrance geometry is comprised or formed from a plurality of non-linear light
input surfaces 92.
The non-linear light input surfaces 92 define a plurality of coupling cavities
or features extending
into the waveguide body 72 from a coupling face (F, FIG. 2C). Portions of the
non-linear light
input surfaces 92 are parabolic or wedge-shaped and form the parabolic or
wedge-shaped
entrance geometry. The parabolic or wedge-shaped light input surfaces 92 are
symmetric about
an axis of symmetry that is centrally disposed between immediately adjacent
surfaces. When
assembled in a waveguide fixture, a plurality of light emitters, including but
not limited to LEDs
are positioned towards and face the entrance geometry and input face. The
entrance geometry
and surfaces 92 thereof separates the LED light in two directions evenly as it
enters the
waveguide optic 70. The separated light rays are collimated in each direction
upon entering the
waveguide optic 70.
Referring now to FIG. 2B, it can be seen that the first and second light
extracting regions
80A and 80B of the waveguide optic 70 each comprise a respective set of light
extraction
elements 86 located in a respective recessed portion or region R of the light
extraction face 76.
For example, the first light extracting region 80A comprises a first set Seti
of extraction elements
86 and the second light extracting region 80B comprises a second set Set of
extraction elements
86. Each recessed region R of the extraction face 76 comprises a
plurality of bridges 84
disposed at last partially around the extraction elements 86. The bridges 84
can connect and
support the waveguide optic securely to the flange.
As FIG. 2B further illustrates, the first set Sett of light extraction
elements 86 is disposed
on a first side of an axis of symmetry At and the second set Set2 of light
extraction elements 86 is
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disposed on a second side of the axis of symmetry Al. Such arrangement of
extraction elements
86 advantageously facilitates extraction of symmetric distributions of light
in high vertical angles
(i.e., greater than 60 degrees) for a wide distribution. Extraction elements
86 and bridges 84
disposed in the first light extracting region 80A are a mirror image of the
extraction elements 86
.. and bridges 84 in the second light extracting region 80B. Alternatively,
the extraction elements
86 and bridges 84 in the first light extracting region 80A are asymmetric
relative to the light
extraction elements 86 in the second light extracting region 80B.
The light extraction elements 86 can comprise a plurality of non-linear
extraction
elements, a plurality of linear extraction elements, or combinations of linear
and non-linear
.. elements. Exemplary embodiments of non-linear extraction elements include
elements that are
curved, rounded, elliptical, semi-elliptical, semi-circular, helical, arcuate,
or disposed in non-
linear shapes or patterns as viewed in the plane of the extraction face 76.
Linear elements 86
may be arranged to form an open or closed regular shape (e.g., a triangle, a
square, etc.) or an
open or closed irregular shape as viewed in the plane of the extraction face
76. The faces (e.g.,
86A, 86B in FIG. 2C) of the linear and non-linear elements 86 may be tapered,
curved, faceted,
or non-faceted for improved light extraction. Further, the faces (e.g., 86A,
86B in FIG. 2C) of
the linear and non-linear elements 86 are either substantially orthogonal to
the recessed floor 82
or angled thereto. The faces (e.g., 86A, 86B in FIG. 2C) can also have a sweep
feature wit a
profile of at least one curved surface.
FIG. 2C is a sectional view of an assembled optic assembly 20 along the
section indicated
in FIG. 2B. When assembled, the optical insert 50 is disposed between and
contacts portions of
the optical housing 30 and the waveguide optic 70. The waveguide optic 70
comprises the light
extraction face 76 and the light redirecting face 96. A light coupling face F
(i.e., where the LED
light sources face and couple to the optic) is substantially orthogonal to
both the light extraction
face 76 and the light redirecting face 96. The light redirecting face 96
contacts portions of the
optical insert 50 and redirects stray or escaping light back the waveguide
optic 70 and/or portions
thereof (i.e., to the light coupling region 90 or extraction face 76). The
redirecting face 96 can
work in conjunction with the optical insert 50 and/or housing 30 to redirect
light to the extraction
face 76 of the waveguide optic 70.
As FIG. 2C further illustrates, each light extraction element 86 comprises a
first light
extraction face 86A and a second, opposing face 86B. The light extraction
faces 86A of optic 70
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are arranged substantially orthogonal with respect to the recessed floor 82
and facilitate
backward light extraction. The light extraction faces 86A are TIR surfaces
that facilitate light
extraction primarily via TIR. The second, opposing faces 86B of light
extraction elements 86 are
substantially curved or rounded and angled with respect to the recessed floor
82. The second,
opposing faces 86B of the light extraction elements 86 may also reflect light.
The light redirecting face 96 of the waveguide optic 70 comprises a plurality
of light
redirection elements 91 disposed thereon. The light redirection elements 91
can be specularly
reflective, diffusively reflective, or partially specularly reflective and
partially diffusively
reflective. The light redirection elements 91 work in conjunction with the
optical insert 50,
housing 30, and/or surfaces or portions thereof to redirect light to the light
extraction surface 76
where it can be extracted at wide angles for forming a desired, symmetric
distribution of light.
Various sections of the light redirecting face 96 can be specularly reflective
while other sections
exhibit diffuse reflectance. The number and arrangement of light redirecting
elements 91 can be
selected to match and/or correspond to extraction elements 86 according to
several
considerations including, but not limited to the desired size, shape, and/or
type (i.e., Type II,
Type III, Type IV, Type V, etc.) of lighting distribution.
In some embodiments, the optical insert 50 fully encloses the sidewalls and
base of the
waveguide optic 70. In alternative embodiments, the optical insert 50 does not
fully enclose the
sidewalls and/or base of the waveguide optic 70. The optical insert 50 can be
selectively
positioned in the compartment 35 of the optic housing 30 so that the
reflective sidewalls 38
and/or base wall 40 of the optic housing 30 also work in conjunction with the
optical insert 50
and light redirecting face 96 to provide desired lighting distributions from
the optic assembly 20.
FIG. 2D is a detailed view of the light coupling region as indicated in FIG.
2C. As FIG.
2D illustrates, one or more optional reflective sleeves 60 can be provided.
Where provided, the
sleeves 60 can cover and match the external geometry of the light coupling
region 90 of the
waveguide optic 70 according to some embodiments. The waveguide optic 70 can
taper in the
light coupling region 90 towards the light coupling face F that faces the
LEDs. The reflective
sleeves 60 match the taper angle of the waveguide optic 70, thereby providing
an aperture
entrance geometry that matches the geometry of the waveguide optic 70 in the
light coupling
region 90.
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The reflective sleeves 60 can optionally comprise a textured surface, for
example,
comprised of facets 62 for returning light to the waveguide optic 70 that has
escaped the light
coupling region 90. Light rays failing to meet TIR in the coupling region 90
can leak out of the
waveguide optic 70. The reflective sleeves 60 can assist in redirecting any
escaping light rays
back into to the coupling region 90 for redistribution in the waveguide optic
70 leading to optical
efficiency enhancements. In the embodiment of FIG. 2D, the waveguide optic 70
further
comprises an alignment pin P for aligning an LED array board to the light
coupling region 90.
FIGs. 2A-2D are provided for illustration purposes only. Numerous
modifications and
adaptations will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art without
departing from the instant
subject matter.
FIGs. 2E-2F illustrate various features disposed on or over a rear (bottom)
face or side of
the waveguide optic 70, which is on an opposing side or underlying surface of
the light
extraction face 76. For example, FIGs. 2E-2F illustrate various aspects
associated with the light
redirecting face 96 of optic 70. FIGs. 2E and 2F differ in that FIG. 2E
includes an optional light
recycling feature 97, whereas FIG. 2F does not.
Referring now to FIGs. 2E-2F, and in general, a plurality of light redirecting
facets 85
(also referred to as "light deflection surfaces"), are disposed around
portions of the light
redirection elements 91. Facets 85 are configured to redirect light to light
extraction elements 86
and facilitate light extraction by virtue of meeting the TIR requirements.
Alternatively, the facets
85 may be specularly reflective and redirect light to light extraction
elements 86 for facilitating
light extraction. For example, light deflected (i.e., via either meeting the
TIR requirements or
specular reflection) by facets 85 is then redirected to and extracted by the
extraction elements 86.
In some embodiments, the facets 85 are provided with a specularly reflective
coating. In other
embodiments, the facets 85 reflect light via TIR surfaces and are devoid of a
specularly reflective
coating.
The facets 85 are configured to redirect light through the optic 70 and/or out
of the optic
via the extraction face 76. The facets 85 are configured to direct light
through and/or out of the
waveguide optic 70 and towards the light extraction elements 86. The extracted
light forms a
substantially symmetric lighting distribution over a plane or surface opposite
the light extraction
face 76 and/or a front or top plane of the optic 70. Adjacent facets 85 can be
disposed at acute,
obtuse, or right angles for providing a desired light output. Further, each
facet 85 can form a
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surface or wall that is substantially orthogonal to the recessed floor 82 of
each respective
recessed region R (FIG. 2B).
Referring to FIG. 2E, an optional recycling feature 97 can be disposed on or
over the
redirecting face 96 of optic 70 in some embodiments. The recycling feature 97
can be formed in
the redirection face 96 via molding, extruding, printing, or any other
suitable method not
inconsistent with the invention, and comprises the same, transparent material
as the remaining
optic 70. The recycling feature 97, where used, is disposed around a perimeter
of and/or
encompasses the facets 85 for redirecting light back into the optic via TIR
surfaces. For
example, stray or leaking light rays are guided to extraction elements 86 via
the recycling
features 97. Referring now to FIG. 2F, and in some embodiments, the optic 70
is devoid of a
recycling feature 97. Rather, the plurality of facets 85 redirect light
through the optic 70 via TIR
surfaces. The facets 85 direct light towards the light extraction elements 86
for backwards
extraction in a preferential direction as shown and described, for example, in
FIG. 1C.
FIGs. 3A-3C illustrate perspective top, top plan, and side views of the
optical insert 50.
Referring to FIGs. 3A-3C and as noted above, the optical insert 50 comprises a
reflective
compartment 52 defined by a plurality of reflective sidewalls 53A and a
reflective base 53B.
The compartment 52 is defined between a top surface 54 and a bottom surface 55
and between a
front face 58 and a rear face 59. The compartment 52 may fully or partially
cover waveguide
optic 70, where desired.
In some embodiments, multiple terraces 57 form a continuous border that
encloses
sidewalls of the waveguide optic 70. The base wall 53B is substantially flat
or planar for
receiving the base of the waveguide optic 70. The sidewall apertures 56 permit
interfacing
between LEDs (i.e., the light source) and the light coupling region 90 of the
waveguide optic 70.
The sidewall apertures 56 can also retain the sleeves 60 against portions of
the light coupling
.. region 90.
As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the reflective sidewalls 53A include both straight
and curved
portions for forming a continuous border that covers and/or encloses sidewalls
of the waveguide
optic 70. The reflective sidewalls 53A are noimal or substantially normal to
the base wall 53B.
The one or more reflective sidewalls 53A form an angle with the reflective
base wall 53B that is
between 85-95 degrees. Normal orientation of the reflective sidewalls 53A
relative to the
reflective base wall 5313 of the optical insert 50 can redirect light escaping
the waveguide optic
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70 to pass through the extraction face 76 at angles greater than 60 degrees
relative to an axis
normal to the extraction face. This wide angle distribution of light can
enable the optic assembly
to meet the requirements of Type V and/or Type II lighting distributions.
FIG. 3D is a perspective view of a reflective sleeve 60. Two or more
reflective sleeves
60 may be provided per optic assembly 20. Reflective sleeves 60 can be
positioned adjacent to
the sidewall aperture 56 of the insert 50, and cover portions of the light
coupling region 90 of the
waveguide optic 70. The reflective sleeves 60 can be separate, discrete pieces
or bodies of
material. However, the reflective sleeves 60 may also be integrally formed
with any of the insert
50, housing 30, and/or waveguide optic 70.
The reflective sleeves 60 can be provided as a separate piece of material for
coupling
with the optical insert 50 and waveguide optic 70 according to some
embodiments. The
reflective sleeves 60 comprise a reflective body 64 having a first surface 61
configured to face
the optical insert 50 and a second surface 63 configured to face the waveguide
optic 70. The
reflective sleeves 60 have dimensions sized to cover the light coupling region
90 of the
waveguide optic. In some embodiments, for example, the waveguide optic 70
tapers to match
the tapering of the light coupling region 90. Portions of the reflective
sleeves 60 can be angled
(i.e., at angles a and/or 13) to match the tapered angle and/or geometry of
the light coupling
region 90. Accordingly, angles a and 13 can be varied independent of one
another in response to
geometrical considerations of the light coupling region 90.
The sleeves 60 include one or more bendable or movable members 64A that are
positionable at the various angles a, f3 relative to the remaining body 64. In
some embodiments,
the angles a and 13 are the same value. For example and in some embodiments,
angles a and 13
are each less than about 90 degrees. In other embodiments, the angles a and 13
are different
values. FIGs. 3A-3D are provided for illustration purposes only. Numerous
modifications and
adaptations will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art without
departing from the instant
subject matter.
FIGs. 4-5 illustrate aspects associated with to lighting distribution provided
by optic
assemblies described herein, including optic assembly 20. As FIGs. 4 and 5
illustrate, the
waveguide optic in conjunction with the optical insert provide a Type V
distribution with peak
lighting intensity greater than 60 degrees.
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FIGs. 6A-8D illustrate different waveguide optics for use in lighting devices
and/or
fixtures according to some embodiments. The basic features, architectures,
and/or operational
principles of the various waveguide optics in FIGs. 6A-8D are similar;
however, each waveguide
optic utilizes different arrangements of light extraction elements and light
redirection elements
for providing different lighting distributions. Notably, the lighting
distributions extracted by
each waveguide optic are symmetric about at least one line of symmetry with a
high output flux
of at least 24,000 lumens or more. The distribution may include any of a Type
II, Type III, Type
VI, or Type V lighting distribution. Any other type of lighting distribution
may also be extracted
by the optics set forth in FIGs. 6A-8D consistent with the instant disclosure.
FIGs. 6A-6D illustrate a waveguide optic, generally designated 100, for an
optic
assembly (e.g., 20, FIG. 2) of a lighting device. FIG. 6A is a perspective
view of the waveguide
optic 100, FIG. 6B is a plan view of a top or front side 100A of the waveguide
optic 100, FIG.
6C is a plan view of the bottom or rear side 100B of waveguide optic 100, and
FIG. 6D is a
sectional view of the waveguide optic 100 taken along the lines indicated in
FIG. 6B.
Referring generally to FIGs. 6A-6D, the waveguide optic 100 includes a
waveguide body
102 comprising a front or top surface 104 on the front side 100A of the body
and a rear or
bottom surface 106 on the rear side 100B of the body. The top and bottom
surfaces 104, 106 are
disposed on opposite sides of the body 102. The front side 100A of the optic
is configured to
extract a specific distribution of light from a plurality of LEDs via a light
extraction face 108.
The bottom surface 100B of the optic is configured to work in conjunction with
the optical insert
and/or housing of the optic assembly (e.g., 20, FIG. 2A) and redirect light
through and/or to the
light extraction face 108. The extraction face 108 is disposed between a
plurality of sidewalls
103. The sidewalls 103 and front faces 116A of extraction elements comprise
TIR surfaces that
facilitate light extraction primarily via TIR. Light can be redirected (e.g.,
via
deflection/reflection) to extraction elements 116 via facets (i.e., 115, FIG.
6C) and/or redirection
elements (i.e., 124, FIG. 6C) disposed on an opposing face.
As FIGs. 6A and 6B illustrate, the front side 100A comprises a first light
extracting
region 110A and a second light extraction region 110B. Each light extracting
region 110A and
110B includes a recessed portion terminating a recess floor 112. A plurality
of light extraction
elements 116 are disposed over the recess floor 112. In this embodiment, the
plurality of light
extraction elements include at least one linear (non-curved) extraction
element centrally disposed
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between a plurality of non-linear (curved) extraction elements. The curved
extraction elements
116 are arranged in a semi-circular or semi-elliptical arrangement around the
linear element. A
plurality of bridges 114 are disposed around portions of the recess floor 112
and surround
portions of the light extraction elements 116. Front, light extraction faces
116A of the light
extraction elements 116 are refractive surfaces that extract light backwards
(i.e., towards the light
coupling regions 118). The light extraction elements 116 can extract light
received directly from
the LED light sources or indirectly from the facets 115 (FIG. 6C) and/or light
redirection
elements 124 (FIG, 6C).
As FIG. 6A further illustrates, within each set of light extraction elements
116 in a given
light extracting region 110A and/or 110B, the plurality of light extraction
elements 116 are
asymmetric about a line of symmetry X2. The light extraction elements 116 in
each light
extraction region do not have a mirror image on either side of the line of
symmetry X2, and can
be devoid of a line of symmetry. The light extracting regions 110A and 110B
are configured to
extract a symmetric distribution of light from a plurality of light emitters,
such as LEDs, that are
facing and coupled to one or more light coupling regions 118. As FIG. 68
illustrates, the light
extracting regions 110A and 110B are symmetric with respect to each other
about an axis of
symmetry Xs that bisects the top surface 104.
Referring to FIG. 6C and in some embodiments, the rear side 100B of optic 100
comprises a plurality of facets 115 and/or light redirection elements 124
formed therein. The
plurality of facets 115 and/or portions thereof are fully or partially
specularly reflective for
redirecting light towards light extraction elements 116. The light extraction
elements 116 can
then extract light backward via refractive surfaces (i.e., 116A).
Alternatively, facets 115
comprise UR surfaces that redirect light back towards the light extraction
elements 116.
Adjacent facets 115 are provided at various angles 51 and 82 with respect to
each other.
The angles 81 and 82 may have substantially the same value or different
values, where desired,
for providing a desired lighting distribution and/or output. Notably, the
light redirecting regions
comprised of facets and/or redirection elements 124 are symmetric about at
least a first axis of
symmetry Xs, and in some instances, about two or more axes of symmetry.
Further with respect to FIGs. 6A-6D in general, it is seen that each light
coupling region
118 comprises a non-linear entrance geometry. The entrance geometry is formed
from a plurality
of non-linear light input surfaces 120. The non-linear light input surfaces
120 define light
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coupling cavities or features that extend into the waveguide body 102 from a
coupling face F
(see FIG. 2C). Portions of the non-linear light input surfaces 120 are
parabolic or wedge-shaped
and form a parabolic or wedge-shaped entrance geometry. The parabolic or wedge-
shaped light
input surfaces 120 are symmetric about an axis of symmetry that is centrally
disposed between
immediately adjacent surfaces. Portions of the parabolic or wedge-shaped
entrance geometry are
configured to split or separate the light from the LEDs coupled thereto into
two directions. The
light is then collimated on a horizontal plane and symmetrically extracted on
a vertical plane at
wide angles via light extraction face 108.
FIG. 6C illustrates the rear side 100B of the optic in more detail. The rear
side 100B faces and/or
engages portions of an optical insert (i.e., 50, FIG. 3A). The bottom surface
106 is a light
redirecting face configured to redirect light from the rear side 100B to the
front side 100A. A
plurality of light redirection elements 124 are disposed over the light
redirecting face. The
plurality of light redirection elements 124 are disposed in a first light
redirecting region 122A
and a second light redirection region 122B opposite the first and second light
extracting regions
110A and 110B. The light redirection elements 124 in each region 122A and 122B
can be a
combination of linear and non-linear elements. A plurality of facets 115 are
disposed around the
light redirection elements 124, and redirect light to the front side 100A via
TIR surfaces. The
facets 115 can be symmetric about a line of symmetry or asymmetric and devoid
of a line of
symmetry. In some embodiments, the light redirection elements 124 have a sweep
feature with a
profile of at least one curved surface. Further, the light extraction and
redirection elements can
have a pair relation for light cascading prior to extraction toward entrance
geometry.
FIG. 6D is a sectional view of waveguide optic 100. As FIG. 6D illustrates,
each light
extraction element 116 includes a front, light extraction face 116A and a rear
face 116B. The
front faces 116A facilitate backward light extraction via TIR. The front faces
can be
substantially orthogonal with respect to the recess floor 112 at an angle 0,
which is
approximately 90 degrees. The rear faces 116B can curve, taper, or angle
vertically away from
the recess floor 112. Each light redirection element 124 includes a light
redirecting face 124A
that tapers or curves towards the light extraction face 108.
Input light (i.e., ingress light) Li will enter the optic 100 proximate the
light coupling
region 118 and is extracted in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to
and/or aimed
backwards (i.e., back towards the direction of input light Li). For example,
extracted light LE is
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in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the light
extraction face 108 and
focused in a preferential direction that is at least partially backwards,
towards the point of entry.
The input light Li is reflected in slow angles near the entrance geometry and
extracted in high
vertical angles over 60 degrees for a wide distribution.
FIGs. 7A-7D illustrate a waveguide optic 200, which is similar in faun,
function, and
operation to previously described optics. Waveguide optic 200 includes a
plurality of curved
light extraction elements and is devoid of linear light extraction elements.
FIG. 7A is a
perspective view of the waveguide optic 200, FIG. 7B is a plan view of a top
or front side 200A
of the waveguide optic 200, FIG. 7C is a plan view of the bottom or rear side
200B of waveguide
optic 200, and FIG. 7D is a sectional view of the waveguide optic 200 taken
along the lines
indicated in FIG. 7B.
Briefly, the waveguide optic 200 includes a waveguide body 202 comprising a
top
surface 204 on the front side 200A of the body and a bottom surface 206 on the
rear side 200B of
the body. The front side 200A of the optic extracts a specific distribution of
light from a plurality
of LEDs via a light extraction face 208. The bottom side 200B of the optic is
configured to work
in conjunction with the optical insert and/or housing of the optic assembly
(e.g., 20, FIG. 2A)
and redirect light through and/or to the light extraction face 208. The
extraction face 208 is
disposed between a plurality of reflective sidewalls 203 that facilitate light
extraction and/or
redirection of light to one or more light extraction elements.
A plurality of light extracting regions 210A, 210B are provided on or over the
light
extraction face 208. Each light extracting region 210A and 210B includes a
recessed portion that
terminates at a recess floor 212. A plurality of light extraction elements 216
are disposed over
the recess floor 212. In this embodiment, the plurality of light extraction
elements 216 include a
plurality of parallel curvatures that define a quarter-circular surface area.
The extraction elements
216 include at least one line of symmetry and are concentric. Alternatively,
the extraction
elements can be asymmetric. The elements 216 extract light via vertically
disposed front, light
extraction faces 216A. The front faces 216A extract light backwards (i.e.,
towards the light
coupling regions 218) via refractive surfaces. The elements 216 include rear
faces 216B that are
refractive. A plurality of bridges 214 are disposed around the extraction
elements 216. The two
light extracting regions 210A and 210B are symmetric about at least a first
axis of symmetry Xs,
and in some instances, about two or more axes of symmetry. Alternatively, the
two light
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extracting regions 210A and 210B are symmetric. In certain embodiments, the
light extracting
regions 210A and 210B are configured to extract a symmetric distribution of
light from a
plurality of light emitters, including but not limited to LEDs, that are
facing and coupled to one
or more light coupling regions 218. The axis of symmetry Xs bisects the top
surface 204 as
indicated in FIG. 7B.
FIG. 7C illustrates a rear side 200B of optic 200, which comprises a plurality
of facets
215 and/or light redirection elements 224 formed therein. In some embodiments,
each facet 215
and/or portions thereof are fully or partially specularly reflective for
redirecting light towards
light extraction elements 216. The light extraction elements 216 can then
extract light backward
via refractive surfaces (i.e., 216A). Alternatively, facets 215 may comprise
TIR surfaces that
redirect light back towards the light extraction elements 216 for facilitating
light extraction. The
light extraction elements 216 can extract light received directly from the LED
light sources or
indirectly from the facets 215 and/or light redirection elements.
Each light coupling region 218 comprises a non-linear entrance geometry formed
from a
plurality of non-linear light input surfaces 220. The non-linear light input
surfaces 220 extend
into the waveguide body 202. Portions of the non-linear light input surfaces
220 are parabolic or
wedge-shaped and form a parabolic or wedge-shaped entrance geometry. The
parabolic or
wedge-shaped entrance geometry are configured to separate the light so that
the light can be
symmetrically extracted wide angles via light extraction face 208.
The rear side 200B is configured to face and/or engage portions of an optical
insert (i.e.,
50, FIG. 3A). The bottom surface 206 of optic 200 is a light redirecting face
configured to
redirect light from the rear side 200B to the front side 200A. A plurality of
light redirection
elements 224 are disposed over the light redirecting face, below portions of
the extraction
elements. The plurality of light redirection elements 224 are configured in a
set over a first light
redirecting region 222A and a second light redirection region 222B. The first
and second light
redirection regions 222A and 222B are opposite the first and second light
extracting regions
210A and 210B. The light redirection elements 224 in each region 222A and 222B
are curved
and substantially parallel.
FIG. 7D is a sectional view of waveguide optic 200. Each light extraction
element 216
includes the front, light extraction face 216A and the rear face 216B. The
front faces 216A
facilitate backward light extraction while the rear faces 216B curve, taper,
or angle away from
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the recess floor 212. Each light redirection element 224 includes opposing
light redirecting
surfaces 224A and 224B that taper or curve towards the light extraction face
208.
Ingress light Li enters the optic 200 proximate the light coupling region 218
and is
extracted in a direction that is substantially orthogonal and/or at least
partially backwards with
.. respect to LF. The extracted light LE is output in a direction or plane
that is substantially
perpendicular to the plane of the light extraction face 208. The input light
Li is reflected in slow
angles near the entrance geometry and extracted in high vertical angles over
60 degrees for a
wide distribution. For example, extracted light LE is in a direction that is
substantially
perpendicular to the plane of the light extraction face and focused in a
preferential direction that
is at least partially backwards, back towards the point of entry.
Of note, some of the input light LI may escape from the coupling zone and be
reflected
by reflective sleeves (FIG. 3D) in slow angles near the entrance geometry. The
escaped light can
be guided by the reflective sleeves (FIG. 3D), portions of which are angled
relative to the
horizontal plane as described above, and into the waveguide optic 300.
Eventually, any escaped
rays of light would be extracted in the preferential direction via the
extraction elements and
facets described herein.
Another embodiment of a waveguide optic, generally designated 300 is
illustrated in
FIGs. 8A-8D. FIGs. 8E-8F are detail views of portions of the optic 300.
Waveguide optic 300 is
similar in form, function, and operation to previously described optics.
Waveguide optic 300
includes a plurality of curved light extraction elements and is devoid of
linear light extraction
elements. FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the waveguide optic 300, FIG. 8B is
a plan view of a
top or front side 300A of the waveguide optic 300, FIG. 8C is a plan view of
the bottom or rear
side 300B of waveguide optic 300, and FIG. 8D is a sectional view of the
waveguide optic 300
taken along the lines indicated in FIG. 8B.
Briefly, the waveguide optic 300 includes a waveguide body 302 comprising a
top
surface 304 on the front side 300A of the body and a bottom surface 306 on the
rear side 300B of
the body. The front side 300A of the optic extracts a desired distribution of
light from a plurality
of LEDs via a light extraction face 308. The bottom surface 300B of the optic
is configured to
redirect light through and/or to the light extraction face 308. The extraction
face 308 is disposed
between a plurality of reflective sidewalls 303 that also facilitate light
extraction.
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A plurality of light extracting regions 310A, 310B are provided over the light
extraction
face 308. Each light extracting region 310A and 310B includes a recessed
portion terminating at
a recess floor 312. A plurality of light extraction elements 316 are disposed
over the recess floor
312. In this embodiment, the plurality of light extraction elements 316
include multiple
curvatures that are substantially quarter-circular in shape. Two of the curved
elements 316 are
concentric and parallel to each other while at least one other curved element
316 is oppositely
curved. Individual elements 316 in a given set of extraction elements are not
symmetric with
regards axis XS2, however, the opposing sets of extraction elements are
symmetric with regards
to axis Xs. Alternatively, individual elements 316 in a given set of
extraction elements and the
opposing sets of extraction elements are asymmetric relative to each other
over the extraction
face 308.
The elements 316 extract light via vertically disposed front light extraction
faces 316A.
Such faces 316A can extract light backwards (i.e., back towards the light
coupling regions 318)
via refractive surfaces. The elements 316 include rear faces 316B that may be
curved, tapered,
or rounded. A plurality of bridges 314 are disposed around the extraction
elements 316. The
light extraction elements 316 can extract light received directly from the LED
light sources or
received indirectly from the facets (315, FIG. 8C) and/or light redirection
elements (324, FIG.
8C).
The light extracting regions 310A and 310B are configured to extract a
symmetric
distribution of light from a plurality of light emitters, such as LEDs, that
are facing the light
extraction faces 316A and are coupled to one or more light coupling regions
318. Each light
coupling region 318 comprises a non-linear entrance geometry formed from a
plurality of non-
linear light input surfaces 320.
FIG. 8C illustrates the rear side 300B of the optic in more detail. The optic
300 comprises
a plurality of facets 315 and/or light redirection elements 324 formed on or
over the rear side
300B thereof. The rear side 300B faces and/or engages portions of an optical
insert (i.e., 50, FIG.
3A). The bottom surface 306 is a light redirecting face configured to redirect
light from the rear
side 300B to the front side 300A. The facets 315 comprise TIER surfaces that
redirect light to the
light extraction elements 316 for facilitating light extraction. The light
extraction elements 316
can extract light received directly from the LED light sources or indirectly
from the facets 315
and/or light redirection elements 324.
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The plurality of light redirection elements 324 are disposed over the light
redirecting
face. The plurality of light redirection elements 324 are disposed in a first
light redirecting region
and a second light redirection region opposite the first and second light
extracting regions 310A
and 310B. The light redirection elements 324 in each are curved and non-
linear. In some
embodiments, one or more recycling features or members 317 are disposed around
and encircle
or enclose portions of the redirecting elements 324 and/or facets 315. The
recycling members
317 are optional, and facilitate redirection of leaking light rays back to the
upper (front) face for
extraction by the extraction elements.
FIG. 8D is a sectional view of waveguide optic 300. Each light extraction
element 316
includes the front, light extraction face 316A and the rear face 316B. The
front faces 316A are
disposed an angle 0 with respect to the recess floor, the angle 0 being about
90 degrees (+7- 5
degrees). The front faces 316A facilitate backward light extraction while the
rear surfaces 316B
curve, taper, or angle away from the recess floor 312. Each light redirection
element 324
includes opposing light redirecting surfaces and that taper or curve towards
the light extraction
face 308. Incoming light Li enters the optic 300 proximate the light coupling
region 318 and is
extracted in a direction that is substantially orthogonal to the L. Some of
the incoming light Li
may escape from the coupling zone and be reflected in slow angles by
reflective sleeves (FIG.
3D) and guided into the optic 300. Eventually, the light Li is extracted
and/or redirected and
then extracted via extraction members and facets in a wide, symmetric
distribution. Extracted
light LE is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the light extraction
face 308. The incoming
light Li is reflected in slow or high angles near the entrance geometry and
extracted at various
vertical angles for a wide distribution. In some embodiments, the extracted
light LE is aimed or
directed in a preferential direction that is at least partially backwards,
back towards the point of
entry.
FIG. 8E is a detail plan view of the light coupling region 318 as indicated in
FIG. 8C.
FIG. 8F is a perspective view of the light coupling region 318. As FIGs. 8E-8F
illustrate, the
light coupling region 318 comprises non-linear entrance geometry formed from a
plurality of
non-linear light input surfaces 320. A plurality of substantially parallel
valleys 321 are disposed
between the non-linear input surfaces 320. The input surfaces 320 can be
substantially smooth or
not smooth. As FIG. 8F illustrates, the input surfaces 320 can be texturized
or patterned, and, in
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certain embodiments, are curved, faceted, or have columnar, ribbed faces 323.
The columnar
faces 323 facilitate separation of the light into two directions and collimate
the light.
The waveguide optics, optic assemblies, and lighting devices described herein
are
configured for use in outdoor lighting products, such as in outdoor lighting
fixtures (e.g., street
lighting fixtures, parking lot lighting fixtures, roadway lighting fixtures,
etc.). Such devices and
fixtures set forth herein emit light having a high output flux of at least
about 24,000 lumens or
more (i.e., 24,000-50,000 lumens or any subrange therebetween, such as 24,000-
32,000 lumens,
32,000-35,000 lumens, etc.). The output flux range(s) may vary, where desired,
by changing out
the LED light sources and/or increasing electrical power.
Further, the devices and fixtures described herein emit light having a color
temperature of
about 2500-6000 Kelvin (K), or any subrange therebetween (e.g., 3000-5000 K,
3500-4500
degrees, etc.).
Moreover, the devices and fixtures described herein exhibit an efficacy of at
least about
90 lumens per watt (LPW), at least 100 LPW, at least 110 LPW, at least 115
LPW, or more than
115 LPW (e.g., 116-120 LPW). Further, the waveguide optics employed in the
devices and
fixtures described herein exhibit an overall efficiency (i.e., light extracted
from the waveguide
optic divided by light injected into the waveguide optic) of at least about 90
percent. A color
rendition index (CRI) of at least about 80, and in some embodiments at least
85 or 90, is attained
by the devices and fixtures set forth herein.
Additional features, elements, architectures, and/or operational principles of
various
waveguide optics are described in United States Patent Application Serial No.
14/657,988
entitled "Luminaire Utilizing Waveguide" by Wilcox et al. (Cree docket no.
P2237US2) and
United States Patent Application Serial No. 15/192,979 entitled "Luminaires
Utilizing Optical
Waveguide" by Lim et al. (Cree docket no. P2611US1), the disclosures of each
which are
incorporated herein by reference in the entirety.
The optic housing (i.e., 30, FIG. 2A) employed by devices and fixtures
described herein
can be utilized as a standard or universal optic housing for one or more
luminaire constructions.
Specific lighting distribution of the optic assembly is controlled by
selection of the waveguide
optic (i.e., 70, 100, 200, and 300) and optical insert.
FTGs. 9A-9C illustrate integration of an optic assembly 401 into a luminaire
fixture 400
according to one embodiment. The luminaire fixture 400 comprises a housing
402. The housing
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may be formed from a high strength, lightweight composition such as a UV
stabilized polymer
for improved weathering and durability. The housing 402 comprises a first end
402A and a
second end 402B. The optic assembly 401 is located proximate the first end
402A of the housing
and a mounting portion 406 is located proximate the second end 402B.
The mounting portion 406 is configured to couple the fixture 400 to a pole,
post or other
support structure. The housing includes a door 404 that facilitates tool-less
access and entry to
portions of the housing 402, for example, for facilitating easy access to
and/or the servicing or
replacement of the optic assembly 401, or portions thereof. The door 404 is
configured to move
(e.g., via pivoting) around a point 403 to open and close the housing.
A compartment 424 is disposed in the housing 402. The compartment 424 is
configured
to receive the optic assembly 401. The optic assembly is comprised of a
waveguide optic 300
(described in FIGs. 8A-8D) positioned in an optical insert 50. The optic 300
and insert 50 will
be positioned in and retained by the optic housing 30. Each light coupling
region 318 of optic
assembly 401 is configured to couple to an LED assembly 410. Individual LEDs
(i.e., 420, FIG.
9B) face the light coupling regions 318 and inject light into the optic
assembly 401 in a direction
that is substantially orthogonal to the plane of the light extraction face
308.
The LED assembly 410 is comprised of a plurality of LED light sources (i.e.,
420, FIG.
9B) and heatsinks 412 for dissipating heat from the LED assembly 410. Vents
414 are provided
in the housing 402 for releasing the heat extracted from the LED assembly 410.
The LED
assembly 410 is electrically connected to a driver 416, which electrically
activates the LEDs and
causes the LEDs to generate light.
Referring to FIG. 9B, the LED assembly 410 further comprises a driver
enclosure 422 for
retaining the driver 416 and associated circuitry. Associated electronics are
positioned in the
compartment 424 adjacent and/or below portions of the optic assembly 401. The
LED assembly
410 comprises an array of LEDs 420 that interface with a side of the waveguide
optic 401. The
LEDs 410 are provided in an array 418, and in some embodiments are disposed on
or over a
printed circuit board (PCB). In this embodiment, each array 418 comprises
three rows of 18
LEDs. Employing multiple arrays 418 facilitates a high output flux of at least
24,000 lumens,
and in some aspects at least 32,000 lumens. FIG. 9C illustrates an assembled
luminaire fixture
400. The door 404 can move in the directions D to open and close the fixture.
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LEDs 420 are light sources comprised of packaged LED chip(s) or unpackaged LED
chip(s) (i.e., a chip on board (COB) array). LEDs 420 can comprise the same or
different types
and/or configurations. The LEDs 420, for example, can be monochromatic or any
desired color
combination. The LEDs 420 can comprise single or multiple phosphor-converted
white and/or
color LEDs, and/or bare LED chip(s) mounted separately or together on a single
substrate or
package that comprises, for example, at least one phosphor-coated LED chip
either alone or in
combination with at least one color LED chip, such as a green LED, a yellow
LED, a red LED,
etc.
The LEDs 420 can comprise phosphor-converted white or color LED chips and/or
bare
LED chips of the same or different colors mounted directly on a PCB and/or
packaged phosphor-
converted white or color LEDs mounted on the printed circuit board, such as a
metal core printed
circuit board or FR4 board. In some embodiments, the LEDs 420 can be mounted
directly to the
heat sink 412 or another type of board or substrate. Depending on the
embodiment, LED
arrangements or lighting arrangements using remote phosphor technology can be
employed as
.. would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and examples of
remote phosphor
technology are described in U.S. Patent No. 7,614,759, assigned to the
assignee of the present
subject matter and hereby incorporated by reference.
In those cases where a soft white illumination with improved color rendering
is to be
produced, the LEDs 420 (i.e., chips, elements, modules, or a plurality of such
elements or
.. modules) may include one or more blue shifted yellow LEDs and one or more
red or red/orange
LEDs as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,213,940, assigned to the assignee of
the present subject
matter and hereby incorporated by reference.
The LEDs 420 may be disposed in different configurations and/or layouts along
one or
more edges of the waveguide body, as desired. Different color temperatures and
appearances
.. could be produced using other LED combinations of single and/or multiple
LED chips packaged
into discrete packages and/or directly mounted to a printed circuit board as a
chip-on board
arrangement. In one embodiment, the light sources can comprise any LED, for
example, an XP-
Q LED incorporating TrueWhite LED technology or as disclosed in U.S. Patent
Application
13/649,067, filed October 10, 2012, entitled "LED Package with Multiple
Element Light Source
and Encapsulant Having Planar Surfaces" by Lowes et al., (Cree Docket No.
P1912US1-7), the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein, as developed
and manufactured
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by Cree, Inc., the assignee of the present application. In another embodiment,
the light sources
can comprise XQ-E LEDs developed by Cree, Inc.
Any of the embodiments disclosed herein incorporating LED light sources may
include
power or driver circuitry having a buck regulator, a boost regulator, a buck-
boost regulator, a fly-
back converter, a SEPIC power supply or the like and/or multiple stage power
converter
employing the like, and may comprise a driver circuit as disclosed in U.S.
patent application
Serial No. 14/291,829, filed May 30, 2014, entitled "High Efficiency Driver
Circuit with Fast
Response" by Hu et al. (Cree docket no. P2276US1, attorney docket no. 034643-
000618) or U.S.
patent application Serial No. 14/292,001, filed May 30, 2014, entitled "SEPIC
Driver Circuit
with Low Input Current Ripple" by Flu et al. (Cree docket no. P2291US1,
attorney docket no.
034643-000616) incorporated by reference herein. The driver 416 and/or
associated circuitry
may further be used with light control circuitry that controls color
temperature of any of the
embodiments disclosed herein, such as disclosed in U.S. patent application
Serial No.
14/292,286, filed May 30, 2014, entitled "Lighting Fixture Providing Variable
CCT" by Pope et
al. (Cree docket no. P2301US1) incorporated by reference herein.
A sensor module (not shown) may be positioned on or over the housing for
sensing
ambient light conditions and/or other conditions including, but not limited
to, temperature,
humidity, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, sound
and mechanical
vibration and acceleration. The sensor module can also comprise Radio
Frequency (RF)
communication apparatus. The luminaire, for example, can be part of a wireless
distributed
lighting network. For example, luminaires of the network may communicate with
one another
via Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers standard 802.15 or some
variant thereof.
Using a wireless mesh network to communicate between luminaires may increase
the reliability
thereof and allow the wireless lighting network to span large areas.
Examples of luminaires and wireless network architectures employing RF
communication are provided in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 62/292,528,
titled Distributed
Lighting Network (Cree docket no. P2592US1) referenced above. When RF
communication
apparatus is included in the sensor module, RF-transmissive materials are can
be employed in the
construction of luminaire component(s) so as not to interfere with RF
transmission or reception.
Luminaire fixtures having the design and construction described in regards to
FIGs. 9A-
9C can be employed in various applications including roadway lighting,
sidewalk lighting and/or
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WO 2018/231959
PCT/US2018/037301
parking lot lighting. Additional applications include warehouse or arena
lighting as well as aisle
lighting.
Various embodiments of the instant subject matter have been described in
fulfillment of
the various objects set forth herein. It should be recognized that these
embodiments are merely
illustrative of the principles and aspects of the present subject matter.
Numerous modifications
and adaptations thereof will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art
without departing from
the instant disclosure.
36
