Fluorescent lighting apparatus
US6784603B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 18, 2002 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 18, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/0068
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A light source useful for a wide variety of lighting applications such as signage, architectural or automotive designs, as well as cosmetic and/or functional features for other products can be created by combining a light collector comprising a sheet of material having a fluorescent substance incorporated therein and an optical element juxtaposed adjacent the collector. Light incident on the collector induces fluorescence that is trapped by total internal reflection, concentrated, and radiated from an edge of the collector. The size of collector plate with respect to its thickness is such that it provides an intensified image along its edge that is readily visible during both daytime and nighttime. The optical element modifies the distribution of light output from an edge of the collector. The optical element is preferably configured to decrease divergence of light emitted from the edge. The optical element may also direct the light emitted from the collector above or below the plane of the collector. Preferably, this optical element comprises a non-imaging optical element. The collector design can also be varied as required. The collector for example can be bent to direct light up…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.