Certain lighting devices such as, but not limited to, room or area lighting devices, can include configurations that allow for mounting of the lighting device in a recess in a ceiling, wall or other structure. Such lighting devices may include a light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED). Typically, the brightness of an LED light source is at least partially related to the speed in which heat can be transferred away from the LED component. For example, it may be desirable to maintain the temperature of the LED under about 105° Celsius for improved or maximum light output and efficiency. However, in contexts in which the lighting device is mounted in a ceiling, wall or other object (for example, as a recessed lighting device), the LED component may be located within an enclosed or poorly ventilated environment within the ceiling, wall or other object, which can inhibit the ability to transfer heat away from the LED.
Accordingly, aspects of various examples described herein can be configured to transfer and dissipate heat away from the LED, while allowing the lighting device assembly to be located within a recess in a ceiling, wall or other object. In other examples described herein, the lighting device assembly may be mounted in other suitable locations or environments.
One or more examples and aspects described herein relate to a lighting device assembly having a first heat sink member, a light source attached to the first heat sink member, and a first optic member having a light entry side and a light exit side. The first optic member is arranged with the light entry side in a position to receive light from the light source. The first optic member is configured to emit the light from the light exit side in a light beam or pattern having a peripheral edge portion. An aperture member is secured in a fixed relation to the first heat sink member. The aperture member has an optical opening arranged in alignment with the light exit side of the first optic member to pass a portion of the light from light exit side of the first optic member through the optical opening. The aperture member has a plurality of surface regions surrounding the optical opening, each surface region being configured to reflect a different respective section of the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern toward the light exit side of the first optic member.
In further examples, each respective surface region of the plurality of surface regions is oriented at one or more different respective angles relative to an axial dimension of the aperture member, to reflect different respective sections of the peripheral edge portions toward the light exit side of the first optic member.
In further examples, each respective surface region of the plurality of surface regions has a reflective material, coating, layer or treatment, to enhance optical reflectance characteristics of the surface region.
In further examples, the plurality of surface regions include a first surface region forming at least one angle relative to an axial dimension of the aperture member, a second surface region oriented substantially perpendicular to the axial dimension and a third surface region defining an interface between the first and second surface regions. Each of the first, second and third surface regions faces toward the first optic member at a different respective angle relative to the axial dimension.
In further examples, the second surface region is located directly adjacent the optical opening of the aperture member.
Further examples include a ring member arranged between the aperture member and the first heat sink member. The ring member has a central opening arranged in alignment with the light exit side of the first optic member and through which at least a portion of the light from the light exit side of the first optic member may pass. The ring member has a surface region surrounding the central opening and configured to reflect a section of the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern toward one of the surface regions of the aperture member, to be reflected by that surface region of the aperture member toward the first optic member. The surface region of the ring member faces toward the optical opening at an oblique angle relative to the axial dimension of the aperture member.
Further examples include a ring member arranged between the aperture member and the first heat sink member, where the ring member has a central opening arranged in alignment with the light exit side of the first optic member and through which at least a portion of the light from the light exit side of the first optic member may pass. The ring member has a surface region surrounding the central opening and configured to reflect a section of the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern toward one of the surface regions of the aperture member, to be reflected by that surface region of the aperture member toward the first optic member.
Further examples include at least one second optic member arranged between the ring member and the first heat sink member.
Further examples include at least one second optic member arranged between the aperture member and the first heat sink member.
Further examples include a plurality of second optic members, where each second optic member is configured to be individually selected with respect to each of the other second optic members of the plurality, and arranged between the aperture member and the first heat sink member instead of each of the other second optic members of the plurality.
Further examples include a ring member formed as an integral unitary body with the aperture member, where the ring member has a central opening arranged in alignment with the light exit side of the first optic member and through which at least a portion of the light from the light exit side of the first optic member may pass, and where the ring member has a surface region surrounding the central opening and configured to reflect a section of the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern toward one of the surface regions of the aperture member, to be reflected by that surface region of the aperture member toward the first optic member.
Further examples include a second heat sink member selectively connectable to the first heat sink member, where the second heat sink member is supported by and being in heat transfer communication with the first heat sink member when the second heat sink member is connected to the first heat sink member. In addition, the aperture member is formed integral and unitary with the second heat sink member.
Further examples include a second heat sink member selectively connectable to the first heat sink member, where the second heat sink member is supported by and being in heat transfer communication with the first heat sink member when the second heat sink member is connected to the first heat sink member. In addition, the first heat sink member has a recess for receiving at least a portion of the second heat sink member when the second heat sink member is connected to the first heat sink member.
Further examples include an optic holder that supports the first optic member in a fixed position relative to the first heat sink member.
In further examples, the first optic member is configured to converge at least a portion of light from the light source to a focus point that is located within the aperture member.
Further examples relate to a method of making a lighting device assembly, where the method includes providing a first heat sink member, attaching a light source to the first heat sink member, and providing a first optic member having a light entry side and a light exit side. The first optic member is configured to emit the light from the light exit side in a light beam or pattern having a peripheral edge portion. The method further includes arranging the first optic member with the light entry side in a position to receive light from the light source, and securing an aperture member in a fixed relation to the first heat sink member. The aperture member has an optical opening arranged in alignment with the light exit side of the first optic to pass a portion of the light from light exit side of the first optic member through the optical opening.
The aperture member includes a plurality of surface regions surrounding the optical opening. Each surface region is configured to reflect a different respective section of the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern toward the light exit side of the first optic member.
In further examples of the method, each respective surface region is oriented at one or more different respective angles relative to an axial dimension of the aperture member, to reflect different respective sections of the peripheral edge portions toward the light exit side of the first optic member.
In further examples of the method, the plurality of surface regions comprises a first surface region forming at least one angle relative to an axial dimension of the aperture member, a second surface region oriented substantially perpendicular to the axial dimension and a third surface region defining an interface between the first and second surface regions, wherein each of the first, second and third surface regions faces toward the first optic member at a different respective angle relative to the axial dimension.
In further examples of the method, the second surface region is located directly adjacent the optical opening of the aperture member.
Further examples of the method include arranging a ring member between the aperture member and the first heat sink member, where the ring member has a central opening arranged in alignment with the light exit side of the first optic member and through which at least a portion of the light from the light exit side of the first optic member may pass. The ring member has a surface region surrounding the central opening and configured to reflect a section of the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern toward one of the surface regions of the aperture member, to be reflected by that surface region of the aperture member toward the first optic member. The surface region of the ring member faces toward the optical opening at an oblique angle relative to the axial dimension of the aperture member.
The above and other aspects and features of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the example embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Hereinafter, example embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention, however, may be embodied in various different forms, and should not be construed as being limited to only the illustrated embodiments herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the aspects and features of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary to those having ordinary skill in the art for a complete understanding of the aspects and features of the present invention may not be described. Unless otherwise noted, like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the attached drawings and the written description, and thus, descriptions thereof may not be repeated. Further, features or aspects within each example embodiment should typically be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other example embodiments.
In the drawings, the relative sizes of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated and/or simplified for clarity. Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “under,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of explanation to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or in operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” or “under” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “under” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.
It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section described below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” “secured to” or “attached to” another element or feature, it can be directly on, connected to, coupled to, secured to or attached to the other element or layer, or one or more intervening elements or layers may be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “between” two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or one or more intervening elements or layers may also be present.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” 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 “including,” “has,” “have,” and “having,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of the 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. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as “at least one of,” when preceding a list of elements, modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements of the list.
As used herein, the term “substantially,” “about,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measured or calculated values that would be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of the present invention refers to “one or more embodiments of the present invention.” As used herein, the terms “use,” “using,” and “used” may be considered synonymous with the terms “utilize,” “utilizing,” and “utilized,” respectively. Also, the term “exemplary” is intended to refer to an example or illustration.
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 the present invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and/or the present specification, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly so defined herein.
According to various examples described herein, a lighting device assembly is configured to be installed in a recess or opening provided in a ceiling, wall or other object. In particular examples, the lighting device assembly is configured to be installed in a manner to appear flush or substantially flush with an exposed surface of the ceiling, wall or other object, when installed. In other examples, variations of the lighting device assembly may be configured to be installed in a manner that is not flush with the exposed surface (e.g., recessed, or protruding from the exposed surface of the ceiling, wall or other object), is surface-mounted on the exposed surface of the ceiling, wall or other object, or is mounted on a support structure (such as, but not limited to a sconce structure, pedestal, shaft or the like).
The lighting device assembly 100 includes a first heat sink member 102 and one or more further heat sink members. In the example in
In addition to the first, second and third heat sink members 102, 104 and 106, the lighting device assembly in
The first heat sink member 102 may be composed of a body of generally rigid material having good thermal conductivity characteristics to efficiently conduct heat. In certain examples, the first heat sink member 102 includes a single, unitary block or plate of aluminum, copper or other metal having significant or substantially great heat conduction capabilities. In certain examples, the first heat sink 102 may be formed (e.g., cast or forged) from solid aluminum. However, in other examples, the first heat sink member 102 may be composed of multiple parts that are fixed or connected together to form a heat sink structure as described herein.
The first heat sink member 102 includes a surface 102a on which a light source 108 is mounted. In particular examples, the light source 108 is mounted in thermal communication with the surface 102a of the first heat sink member 102, such that the first heat sink member 102 may efficiently receive and conduct heat from the light source 108. In certain examples, the surface 102a of the first heat sink member 102 may be in direct contact with the light source 108, to efficiently transfer heat away from the light source 108. In certain examples in which the light source 108 includes a circuit board on which one or more light emitting devices are mounted, the circuit board may be mounted in direct contact with (e.g., generally flat or flush against the surface 102a) to enhance the ability to transfer heat from the circuit board (or components on the circuit board) to the first heat sink member 102.
The light source 108 may include any suitable light emitting device or devices. In particular examples, the light source 108 includes one or more LEDs or other heat-generating light sources. In such examples, the one or more LEDs may be mounted on a circuit board or other support structure. As described herein, the first, second and third heat sink members 102, 104 and 106 are configured to conduct and dissipate heat away from the light source 108, which can significantly improve the efficiency and light output of the one or more LEDs (or other heat-generating light sources).
In the example in
In the example in
The first heat sink member 102 may include one or more passages through which one or more electrical wires or other electrical conductors 120 extend. The electrical wires or other conductors 120 connect to the light source 108 located within the first heat sink member, and extend out of an opening in the first heat sink member 102 to a suitable driver circuit, control electronics and/or power supply. In some examples, the body of the first heat sink member 102 has one or more openings through which the electrical wires or other conductors 120 extend, and a cap 121 may be provided over the opening(s). The cap 121 may help protect the wires or conductors 120 during or after installation of the lighting device assembly 100. Alternatively or in addition, the cap 121 may direct the wires or conductors 120 in a desired orientation (such as, but not limited to a direction that is generally radially outward from the center of the first heat sink member 102 and the lighting device assembly 100 (e.g., horizontal in the orientation of
In various examples, the wires or other conductors 120 may include or be configured to connect to a source of electrical power (not shown) through a driver and/or other electronics (no shown) to convert power provided from the power source to a suitable power for driving the light source 108. In other examples, some or all of the driver and electronics may be provided on the light source 108 (e.g., on a circuit board of the light source 108), or in another electronic circuit located on the first heat sink member 102. In examples in which the light source is an LED light source, the driver and electronics may include an LED driver to convert the power from the power source to a low-voltage power suitable to drive the LED light source. In some examples, the driver or electronics may include a processor to execute instructions stored on memory (e.g., non-transient computer readable media) to process data and/or to control various functions of the lighting device (e.g., temperature, light output, color of light, direction of light, focus of light, and/or the like).
In the example of
The second heat sink member 104 includes a rigid body that extends along and covers a portion of or all of the first side of the first heat sink member, when the second heat sink member 104 is connected to the first heat sink member 102, as shown in
In particular examples, the second heat sink member 104 has a first side and a second side, where the first side faces in the direction of the outward facing side of the lighting device assembly 100 (downward in the orientation of
The second heat sink member 104 includes an opening 104a, extending through the body of the second heat sink member 104, from the first side to the second side of the second heat sink member 104. The opening 104a in the second heat sink member 104 aligns with the opening on the first side of the first heat sink member 102, when the second heat sink member 104 is connected to the first heat sink member 102, as shown in
The second heat sink member 104 may connect to the first heat sink member 102 in any suitable manner, or with any suitable connection mechanism including, but not limited to one or more bolts, screws, or other threaded fasteners, rivets, glue or other adhesive, solder, welds, clamps, friction or press fitted features, combinations thereof, or the like. However, in particular examples, the yoke section 104b includes a threaded outer surface 104d that engages a correspondingly threaded inner surface 102d of the aperture or opening to the recess or cavity 102b, to allow the second heat sink member 104 to connect to the first heat sink member 102 by a threading connection of the yoke section 104b with the aperture or opening to the recess or cavity 102b. In such examples, the second heat sink member 104 may be connected to the first heat sink member 102 by aligning and engaging the yoke section 104b with the aperture or opening to the recess or cavity 102b, and rotating the second heat sink member 104 about an axis A of the aperture or opening, relative to the first heat sink member 102, to thread the yoke section 104b with the threaded aperture or opening in the first heat sink member 102.
In certain examples, the second heat sink member 104 may include an annular lip or ridge 104c, such as, but not limited to a ridge extending upward in the orientation of
As discussed further, below, when the lighting device assembly 100 is installed in the ceiling, wall or other object 101, the first heat sink member 102 and the second heat sink member 104 may be located within (or partially within) an opening in a ceiling, wall or other object, while the third heat sink member 106 is located on or adjacent to an outer or exposed surface of the ceiling, wall or other object 101. In some examples, after or as part of the installation of the lighting device assembly 100, the third heat sink member 106 is configured to be covered (partially or completely) with one or more materials, such as, but not limited to materials commonly known or used as plaster, joint compound, spackling, drywall mud, gypsum-based paste, putty, or the like (collectively and individually referred to herein as plaster material). For example, after or as part of the installation of the lighting device assembly 100, the third heat sink member 106 may be covered with such materials to appear as or become part of the exposed surface of the ceiling, and to hide the third heat sink member 106 from view.
In the example of
The third heat sink member 106 includes a body of material having good thermal conductivity characteristics such as discussed above with regard to the material of the first heat sink member 102, or other suitable material. In certain example examples, the third heat sink member 106 may be formed (e.g., cast or forged) from solid aluminum, copper or other metal having good thermal conduction characteristics. The third heat sink member 106 includes a rigid body that extends along and covers the surface of the first side (the side facing downward in the orientation of
In particular examples, the third heat sink member 106 has a first side and a second side, where the first side faces in the direction of the outward facing side of the lighting device assembly 100 (downward in the orientation of
In the example in
In the example in
The third heat sink member 106 has a central opening 106a, extending through the body of the third heat sink member 106, from the first side to the second side of the third heat sink member 106. The central opening 106a in the third heat sink member 106 aligns with the opening 104a in the second heat sink member 104 and with the opening on the first side of the first heat sink member 102, when the second and third heat sink members 104 and 106 are connected together and to the first heat sink member 102, as shown in
In particular examples, the third heat sink member 106 extends beyond the perimeter of the first and second heat sink members 102 and 104, to provide an extended surface to abut against the exterior facing surface of the ceiling, wall or object. The extended surface of the third heat sink member 106 provides a retaining surface or mud plate, for receiving and retaining materials commonly known or used as plaster, joint compound, spackling, drywall mud, gypsum-based paste, putty, or the like (plaster material). In certain examples, the third heat sink member 106 may include a plurality of plaster/mud openings (each opening extending through the body of the third heat sink member 106, from the first surface to the second surface), to receive and hold such retaining material.
The plurality of plaster/mud openings in the third heat sink member 106 may be distributed uniformly, in one or more defined patterns, or randomly over the body of the third heat sink member 106. Each of the openings may have the same size and shape. Alternatively, different groups of plaster/mud openings (or each plaster/mud opening) may have a different size or shape than opening in other groups (or than each other plaster/mud opening). In certain examples, the size, shape, location, arrangement (or combinations thereof) of the plaster/mud openings in the third heat sink member 106 are configured to allow the third heat sink member to receive and dissipate heat from the second heat sink member, while also minimizing or reducing expansion or contraction of the body of the third heat sink member 106 due to heating or cooling of the third heat sink member 106.
In particular, when the lighting device assembly 100 is installed in a ceiling, wall or other object, the third heat sink member 106 may be located on the exposed surface of the ceiling, wall or other object (as discussed above) to efficiently dissipate heat into the environment on the exposed surface side of the ceiling, wall or object. However, in examples in which the third heat sink member 106 also functions as a retaining surface or plaster/mud plate as discussed above, it may be desirable to minimize thermal expansion and contraction of the third heat sink member 106, to avoid forming cracks, gaps or separations in the plaster material, as the third heat sink member 106 receives and dissipates heat. More specifically, as heat is transferred to the third heat sink member 106 (e.g., from the second heat sink member) or is dissipated from the third heat sink member 106 (e.g., into the environment on the exposed side of the ceiling, wall or other object), the third heat sink member may heat up or cool down. As the temperature of the third heat sink member changes, the third heat sink member 106 may expand or contract in one or more dimensions (e.g., radially), due to thermal expansion or contraction. In certain lighting device assemblies 100, this thermal expansion and contraction may occur over multiple cycles, over the operational life of the lighting device assembly 100.
Most or all of the risk of cracking, separations or gaps in the above-noted materials tends to occur at the outer peripheral portion or the outer perimeter or peripheral edge of the third heat sink member 106. Accordingly, in certain examples, the plaster/mud openings in the third heat sink member 106 or other aspects of the third heat sink member 106 are configured to reduce the transfer of heat to the outer peripheral portion (or the outer peripheral edge) of the third heat sink member 106.
In certain examples, the plaster/mud openings in the third heat sink member 106 may be arranged in a plurality of regions, where each region is within a radial distance or range of the center of the third heat sink member 106. With reference to the example in
In some examples, the outer dimension of the first region 200 (e.g., the radial distance D1 in
In particular examples, the sizes, shapes or arrangement (or any combination thereof) of the openings in the second region 202 are configured to reduce heat conduction radially outward of the annular second region 202. In the example in
Accordingly, in certain examples, the openings in the second region 202 are larger or are arranged denser (or both) than the openings in the first region 200. As a result, the amount of body material (material of the third heat sink in a square centimeter or other area dimension) available to conduct heat across the second region 202 is reduced relative to the first region. Alternatively or in addition, the openings in the second plurality of openings may have a polygonal shape or other shaped to reduce or further reduce the amount of body material available to conduct heat across the second region 202. Accordingly, heat transferred to the first portion of the third heat sink member 106 from the second heat sink member 104, may be inhibited from transferring across the annular array of the second plurality of openings 202. Therefore, the amount of heat transferred to the outer peripheral portion (or the outer peripheral edge) of the third heat sink member 106 may be reduced, to thereby reduce or avoid thermal expansion or contraction of the outer peripheral portion (or the outer peripheral edge) of the third heat sink member 106.
The third region 204 may include further openings for receiving plaster materials, or the like. In addition, one or more further openings may be provided in the first region 200 (or in other regions 202 or 200) to receive one or more fasteners (e.g., fasteners 110a and 110b) for connecting the third heat sink member 106 to the second heat sink member 104. In further examples, the third heat sink member 106 may include one or more further openings provided in the third region 204 or in the second region 202, to receive one or more fasteners (not shown) for connecting the third heat sink member 106 to the ceiling, wall or other object.
In the example in
In other examples, the plaster/mud openings in the first region 200 may be provided in other suitable arrangements or patterns. Accordingly, the example in
Also, while the third heat sink member 106 in the example in
The optic member 112 may be secured to the first heat sink member as described herein. The optic member 112 has a lens body through which light may pass. The lens body of the optic member 112 may be made of any suitable material that passes and directs light such as, but not limited to plastic, glass or other ceramic, composite material, or combinations thereof. The optic member 112 has a light entry side (the side facing upward in the orientation of
The light exit side of the optic member 112 has a central convex or dome shaped portion 112b and one or more further portions 112c around the dome shaped portion 112b. In some examples, the one or more further portions 112c may have a concave shape as shown in
The optic member 112 is configured to direct light from the exit side, through the light passage aperture or opening in the first side of the first heat sink member 102 and the aligned openings in the second heat sink member 104 and the third heat sink member 106. In particular examples, the optic member 112 is configured to focus and direct light in a manner to pass most of the light emitted from the light source 108 through a relatively small opening in the aperture member 116. In certain examples, some of the light passing through the optic member 112 may be focused by the optic member 112 to one or more focus points along the axis A, where the light rays may form a cone that expands outward from the focus point(s) to illuminate a larger area than the area of the relatively small light passage aperture of the aperture member 116. In certain examples, another portion of the light passing through the optic member 112 is directed along or substantially parallel to the axis A.
The optic member 112 may be arranged and held at least partially within the interior volume of the recess or cavity 102b of the first heat sink member 102. In the example shown in
In the example shown in
The optic holder 114 forms a bracket having a generally cylindrical receptacle for receiving the optic member 112, and an annular ridge or lip 114a that engages the annular lip or flange 112d of the optic member 112, to retain the optic member 112 within the recess or cavity of the first heat sink member 102. In particular examples, the optic holder 114 has a size and dimension that fits fully inside the recess or cavity of the first heat sink member 102. The optic holder 114 may have a size and dimensions that are sufficiently smaller than the size and dimensions of the recess or cavity of the first heat sink member 102 (and of the opening to the recess or cavity of the first heat sink member 102), to allow the optic holder 114 and the optic member 112 to be readily inserted through the opening of the recess or cavity in the first heat sink member, and mounted to first heat sink member 102 during manufacture or installation of the lighting device assembly 100. The optic holder 114 may be made of any suitably rigid material such as, but not limited to, metal, plastic, ceramic, composite material, or combinations thereof.
The aperture member 116 includes a cup-shaped body that has a large opening 116a facing the optic member 112, and a small opening facing in the direction of the outward facing side of the lighting device assembly 100, (i.e., downward in the orientation of
The interior of the cup-shaped body of the aperture member 116 may have an angled or curved inner surface, extending between the large opening 116a to the small opening 116b. The inner surface includes one or more (or a plurality of) steps 116c adjacent and around the small opening 116b, to reduce the thickness dimension of the aperture member 116 at the small opening 116b, relative to other portions of the body of the aperture member 116. The steps 116c allow the aperture member to have a sufficient thickness over most of the body, for example, to provide the body with suitable strength and rigidity, while allowing the edge of the small opening 116b to be relatively thin to avoid, reduce or minimize interference with light rays passing through the small opening 116b. In some examples, the inner surface of the aperture member 116 may be made of or coated with a dark, black or light absorbing material such as, but not limited to Vantablack™, black ink or paint, or other black or dark material or coating. In such examples, the light absorbing inner surface of the aperture member 116 avoids, reduces or minimizes reflection of light beams within the aperture member 116.
In certain examples, the edge 116d of the small opening 116b has a curved or an angled surface that curves or angles radially outward toward the outward facing side of the lighting device assembly 100 (i.e., downward and radially outward in the orientation of
The aperture member 116 is connected to and held by the second heat sink member 104. When connected, a portion of the cup-shaped body of the aperture member 116 may protrude or extend outward (downward in the orientation of
The diffuser lens 118 is held between the aperture member 116 and a radially inward directed flange or lip 104f on the yoke section 104b of the second heat sink member 104. In particular examples, the diffuser lens 118 is secured and held by a compressive force between the aperture member 116 and the flange or lip 104f, when the aperture member 116 is threaded a sufficient distance within the opening 104a of the second heat sink member 104. In certain examples, the diffuser lens 118 diffuses light that exits from the exit side of the optic member 112, before the light passes through the aperture member 116. In such examples, the diffuser lens 118 may blend light rays, light beam artifacts and discolorations that may be produced by the light source 108.
In other examples, instead of a diffuser lens, the lens 118 may comprise other optical devices such as, but not limited to, other types of lenses, color filters, other types of filters, transparent covers for inhibiting passage of moisture, dust or the like, combinations thereof, or the like. In certain examples, the lens 118 may sufficiently enclose or seal the cavity in the first heat sink member 102, to inhibit the passage of moisture, dust or other materials into the cavity and, therefore, to allow the lighting device assembly 100 to be installed in various types of environments, such as, but not limited to showers, bathrooms, outdoors, workplace or other environments. In certain examples, the lighting device assembly 100 may be sufficiently enclosed or sealed to meet certain government or regulatory requirements for such installation environments.
As described herein, the lighting device assembly 100 may be configured to be installed in a recess within a ceiling, wall or other object 101. In such examples, to install the lighting device assembly 100, the first heat sink member 102 may be inserted into a recess that has been formed within a ceiling, wall or other object. In some examples, the first heat sink member may be secured to the ceiling, wall or other object by any suitable securing mechanism including, but not limited to one or more brackets, bolts, screws, or other threaded fasteners, adhesive, clamps, friction or press fitted features, combinations thereof, or the like. In other examples, the first heat sink member is held in the ceiling, wall or other object by the third heat sink member 106 (e.g., by attaching the second and third heat sink members 104 and 106 to the first heat sink member 102 and securing the third heat sink member 106 to the ceiling, wall or other object, as described herein). Before or after inserting the first heat sink 102 into the recess of the ceiling, wall or other object 101, the electrical wires or other conductors 120 may be electrically connected to suitable electrical conductors, drivers or other power sources located within the ceiling, wall or other object.
In particular examples, the light source 108, the optic member 112 and the optic holder 114 are each secured to the first heat sink member 102, before the first heat sink member 102 is inserted into the recess in the ceiling, wall or other object as described above. In other examples, one or more (or each) of the light source 108, the optic member 112 and the optic holder 114 is secured to the first heat sink member 102, after the first heat sink member 102 is inserted into the recess in the ceiling, wall or other object as described above. In further examples, one or more (or each) of the light source 108, the optic member 112 and the optic holder 114 may be removed from or replaced in the first heat sink member 102, while the first heat sink member 102 is in the recess in the ceiling, wall or other object.
Once the first heat sink member 102 is received in the recess in the ceiling, wall or other object as described above, the second heat sink member 104 may be secured to the first heat sink member 102. As described above, the second heat sink member 104 may be connected to the first heat sink member 102 by aligning and engaging the yoke section 104b of the second heat sink member 104 with the aperture or opening to the recess or cavity 102b of the first heat sink member 102. Then, the second heat sink member 104 may be rotated (e.g., by manually rotating the second heat sink member 104 about an axis A of the aperture or opening, relative to the first heat sink member 102), to thread and connect the yoke section 104b with the threaded aperture or opening in the first heat sink member 102. The second heat sink member 104 may be rotated about the axis A until the second surface (the downward facing surface in the orientation of
Once the second heat sink member 104 is connected to the first heat sink member 102, the diffuser lens 118 may be inserted into the second heat sink member 104, through the opening 104a, and the aperture member 116 may be secured to the second heat sink member 104 to hold the diffuser lens 118 in place. The aperture member 116 may be connected to the second heat sink member 104 by aligning and engaging the threaded surface 116e of the aperture member 116 with the threaded edge 104e of the opening 104a of the second heat sink member 104, and rotating (e.g., manually) the aperture member 116 about the axis A to thread the aperture member 116 with the second heat sink member 104. The aperture member 116 may be rotated about the axis A until the aperture member 116 abuts and presses the diffuser lens 118 against the flange 104f of the second heat sink member 104, to hold the diffuser lens 118 in place.
Once the aperture member 116 is connected to the second heat sink member 104, the third heat sink member 106 may be secured to the second heat sink member 104. In particular examples, the third heat sink member 106 may be positioned (e.g., manually held) with the opening 106a aligned with the aperture member 116 and, then, moved (e.g., manually pushed) toward the second heat sink member 104 to pass the protruding portion of the aperture member 116 through the opening 106a. The third heat sink member 106 may be moved (e.g., pushed) to a position to be directly adjacent (or abut) the outward-facing surface of the ceiling, wall or other object, and to abut a second surface of the third heat sink member 106 (the upward facing surface in the orientation of
Once the third heat sink member 106 is secured to the second heat sink member 104 (and/or to the ceiling, wall or other object), one or more plaster materials, such as commonly known or used as plaster, joint compound, spackling, drywall mud, gypsum-based paste, putty, or the like, may be applied to the exposed surface of the third heat sink member 106 (the downward facing surface in the orientation of
In some examples, the one or more materials may be applied over the peripheral edge of the third heat sink member 106, to form a smooth (or smooth-appearing) transition from the exposed surface of the third heat sink member 106 to the exposed surface of the ceiling. In certain examples, the one or more materials is applied over the entire body of the third heat sink member 106 and over its peripheral edge, to effectively hide the third heat sink member 106 under a layer of the material(s). The material may be forced into the plaster/mud openings in the first, second and third regions 200, 202 and 204 of the third heat sink member 106, to help hold or retain the material on the third heat sink member 106. In certain examples, the one or more materials are configured to be applied in a wet or paste-like form, and dry or solidify after being applied to the third heat sink member 106, to cover and hold or help hold the third heat sink member 106 (and the lighting device assembly 100) to the ceiling, wall or other object. In other examples, the one or more materials may be omitted, such that the third heat sink member 106 remains exposed or in view, when installed.
In other examples of installation processes, the order of securing or connecting components may be different than the order expressed above. As such, in other examples, the aperture member 116 and/or the diffuser lens 118 may be secured to the second heat sink member 104, before the second heat sink member 104 is secured to the first heat sink member 102. In other examples, the second heat sink member 104 (with or without the aperture member 116 and the diffuser lens 118) may be secured to the first heat sink member 102, before the first heat sink member 102 is received within the recess in the ceiling, wall or other object 101, such that the first and second heat sink members 102 and 104 (with or without the aperture member 116 and the diffuser lens 118) are installed, together, as a single unit, in the recess, wall, or other object 101. In yet other examples, the first, second and third heat sink members 102, 104 and 106 may be secured together (with the aperture member 116 and the diffuser lens 118), and are all installed, together, as a single unit, in the recess, wall, or other object 101.
Another example of a lighting device assembly 300 is shown and described with reference to
The lighting device assembly 300 includes a first heat sink member 302 and may include one or more further heat sink members. The first heat sink member 302 may correspond to the first heat sink member 102 discussed above. Accordingly, reference to the above description of the structure and function of the first heat sink member 102 as corresponding to the structure and function of the first heat sink member 302, except as further described herein.
In the example in
In addition, the lighting device assembly 300 includes an optic member 312, which may correspond to the optic member 112 discussed above. Accordingly, reference to the above description of the structure and function of the optic member 112 as corresponding to the structure and function of the optic member 312, except as further described herein.
In certain examples, the lighting device assembly may include an optic holder such as, but not limited to the optic holder 114 described above, for holding the optic member 312 on the first heat sink member 302. In other examples, as shown in
The ring section 315 of the optic holder may include a generally rigid or semi-rigid, annular member that is configured to selectively attach to or detach from the receptacle section 314, adjacent one open end of the receptacle section 314 (the downward-facing end in
The ring section 315 may attach to the receptacle section 314 of the optic holder by any suitable attachment mechanism including, but not limited to a friction fit, a snap fit, one or more screws, bolts or other threaded fasteners, clamps adhesives, other fasteners or any combination thereof. In particular examples, the ring section 315 may be selectively detached from the receptacle section 314 by applying manual force or by application of a tool or the like, to allow access to the optic member 312 (for example, to inspect, replace, clean or service the optic member 312). In particular examples, the receptacle section 314, the ring section 315, or both, are secured to the first heat sink member 302 by a suitable attachment mechanism such as, but not limited to a friction fit, a snap fit, one or more screws, bolts or other threaded fasteners, clamps adhesives, other fasteners or any combination thereof. The receptacle section 314 and the ring section 315 may be made of any suitably rigid material or materials including, but not limited to metal, plastic, ceramic, composite material, or combinations thereof.
The lighting device assembly 300 may include a secondary optic 318 such as, but not limited to a diffuser lens 118 as described above. In other examples, the secondary optic 318 may comprise another optical devices such as, but not limited to, other types of lenses, color filters, other types of filters, transparent covers for inhibiting passage of moisture, dust or the like, combinations thereof, or the like. In certain examples, a lighting device assembly 300 may be provided with or may be operable with any one of a plurality of second optic members, such that the secondary optic 318 may be selectively replaceable with any one of the plurality of other secondary optics, upon disconnecting the aperture member 316 (or the second heat sink member 304 with the aperture member 316) from the first heat sink member 302, and reconnecting those components after replacement of the secondary optic. In yet other examples, the secondary optic 318 may be omitted.
The lighting device assembly 300 further includes an aperture member 316, described in further detail below. In the example in
The lighting device assembly 300 also includes a baffle ring member 320, described in further detail below. In the example in
The first heat sink member 302 includes a mounting surface (e.g., corresponding to the surface 102a of the first heat sink member 102 described above) on which a light source 308 is mounted. In particular examples, the light source 308 is mounted in thermal communication with the mounting surface of the first heat sink member 302, such that the first heat sink member 302 may efficiently receive and conduct heat from the light source 308 (for example, as described above with regard to the light source 108 and the first heat sink member 102).
The light source 308 may correspond to (in structure and function) the light source 108 described above. In particular examples, the light source 308 includes one or more LEDs or other heat-generating light sources. The first, second and third heat sink members 302, 304 and 306 are configured to conduct and dissipate heat away from the light source 308, for example, similar to the heat conduction and dissipation described above with regard to the heat sink members 102, 104 and 106.
The light source 308 may be secured to the mounting surface of the first heat sink member 302 in any suitable manner such as, but not limited to the manner in which the light source 108 is secured to the first heat sink member 102. In the example in
The contact board 309 may be selectively attached to the first heat sink member 302, with the light source 308 located between the contact board 309 and the first heat sink member 302. The contact board 309 may attach to the first heat sink member 302 by any suitable connection mechanism including, but not limited to one or more bolts, screws, or other threaded fasteners, rivets, glue or other adhesive, solder, welds, clamps, friction or press fitted features, combinations thereof, or the like. In particular examples, the contact board 309 includes one or more electrical contacts that engage and electrically connect with one or more electrical contacts or leads of the light source 308 (such as, but not limited to one or more contacts or leads on a circuit board of the light source 308). The engagement may be solderless or, in other examples, may include a soldered connection.
The one or more electrical contacts on the contact board 309 may be electrically coupled to one or more conductors that extend at least partially through the first heat sink member 302 and extend out as (or are electrically coupled to) wires or other conductor 319. The wires or other conductor 319 may correspond to the wires or conducts 120 discussed above, and may include or be configured to connect to a source of electrical power (not shown) through a driver and/or other electronics (no shown) to convert power provided from the power source to a suitable power for driving the light source 308. In other examples, some or all of the driver and electronics may be provided on the light source 308 (e.g., on a circuit board of the light source 308), or in another electronic circuit located on the first heat sink member 302.
As discussed above, various aspects of the first heat sink member 302 may correspond to the first heat sink member 102. However, the first heat sink member 302 has a cap 321 (corresponding in structure and function to the cap 121 of the first heat sink member 102 discussed above), where the cap 321 is located within a recess in a surface of the first heat sink member 302 (the upward-facing surface in
The first heat sink member 302 has a surface (the downward-facing surface in
The second heat sink member 304 attaches to the first heat sink member 302 in any suitable manner including, but not limited to one or more bolts, screws, or other threaded fasteners, rivets, glue or other adhesive, solder, welds, clamps, friction or press fitted features, combinations thereof, or the like. In certain examples, the second heat sink member 304 includes one or more (or a plurality of) channels through which a corresponding one or more (or plurality) of threaded fasteners (or other fasteners) extend, to attach the second heat sink member 304 to the first heat sink member 302. The second heat sink member 304 may include one or more (or a plurality) of extensions 304a that extend at least partially into one or more (or a plurality) of corresponding openings 302a in the first heat sink member 302, when the second heat sink member 304 is attached to the first heat sink member 302. The extensions 304a and openings 302a may help to align the second heat sink member 304 with the first heat sink member 302. In other examples, the extensions 304a may be omitted.
When the lighting device assembly 300 is assembled, the aperture member 316 and the baffle ring member 320 align with the light exit side of the optic member 312. In that manner, at least a portion of the light emitted from the light source 308 may pass through the optic member 312, and through central openings in each of the baffle ring member 320, the aperture member 316, and the third heat sink member 306.
In particular examples, the aperture member 316 and the baffle ring member 320 have a geometric configuration that enhances one or more aspects of the light emitted through the aperture member 316. For example, the aperture member 316 and the baffle ring member 320 may be configured to reflect, internally, a peripheral edge portion of the light pattern emitted from the optic member 312 as shown in
The aperture member 316 includes one or more surfaces 316b that face in a direction toward (or angled toward) the light exit side of the optic member 312 such that a peripheral portion of the light emitted from the optic member 312 is directed onto the one or more surfaces 316b. The example in
In the example in
In the example in
In the example in
However, in particular examples, a peripheral portion of the light beam or light pattern emitted from the optic member 312 (i.e., the outer peripheral region of the light beam or pattern relative to the axis A) is reflected, internally, back toward the optic member 312 by one or more (or all) of the first, second and third surface regions 316b1-3 and the surface region 320a. Reflected portions of the light beam or light pattern are represented by the broken-line arrows in
As shown in
In the example shown in
As represented in
In particular examples, the surface regions 316b1-3 and 320a may be made of a reflective material or have a reflective coating, layer or treatment, to enhance the ability to reflect back the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern. In other examples, one or more (or each) of those surface regions may be made of a non-reflective, light absorbing material, coating, layer or treatment, to absorb or partially absorb the peripheral edge portion of the light beam or pattern. Light reflected back toward the optic member 312 may be received through the exit side of the optic member 312 and either absorbed or internally reflected within (or back out of) the optic member 312.
While a peripheral edge portion of the light beam or light pattern is reflected back, the central portion of the light beam or light pattern (not shown in
By reflecting back the peripheral edge of the light beam or pattern emitted from the optic member 308, the aperture member 316 (and the lighting device assembly 300 having the aperture member 316) can improve the sharpness of the light beam or pattern emitted from the aperture member 316, and avoid or reduce visible glare or fuzzy lighting effects at the peripheral edge of the light beam or pattern. For example, as shown in
The lighting device assembly 300 may be installed in a recess within a ceiling, wall or other object in any suitable manner including, but not limited to a manner similar to the manner of installation of the lighting device assembly 100 discussed above.
In various examples described herein, certain components are described as having a round shape, cup shape, or cylindrical shaped portions, including, but not limited to the first, second and third heat sink members 102, 104 and 106 (or 302, 304 and 306), the yoke section 104b of the second heat sink member 104, the optic holder 114 (or 314), and the aperture member 116 (or 316). However, in other examples, those components may have other suitable shapes including, but not limited to shapes having polygonal or other non-circular cross-sections (taken perpendicular to the axis A) or combinations thereof. In some examples, those components may have an outer shape configured to provide an aesthetically pleasing, artistic, industrial or other impression.
The foregoing description of illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting, and modifications and variations may be possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the disclosed embodiments. Various modifications and changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Thus, while certain embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it is understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that certain modifications and changes can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims, and equivalents thereof.
This application is a Continuation-in-Part Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/142,961, filed on Jan. 6, 2021, which is a Continuation Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/855,509, filed on Apr. 22, 2020, the contents of each of which are fully incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
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Number | Date | Country | |
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20220154921 A1 | May 2022 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 16855509 | Apr 2020 | US |
Child | 17142961 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 17142961 | Jan 2021 | US |
Child | 17665292 | US |