WO2007033864A1

WO2007033864A1 - Optical display for producing an optical signal

Info

Publication number: WO2007033864A1
Application number: PCT/EP2006/065146
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bernhard Hiltl; Uwe Schade
Original assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
Priority date: 2005-09-22
Filing date: 2006-08-08
Publication date: 2007-03-29
Also published as: DE202005014980U1

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical display and to an insert for an optical display for producing an optical signal. The display comprises at least one light source. The optical display is provided to ensure uniform illumination of the chamber, wherein restrictive, spatial intensity fluctuations are obtained by illuminating the individual shadows of the components of the optical display. At least one light control element is provided for the uniform illumination in essentially all spatial directions, which is provided for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission of the light emitted by the light source.

Description

description

Optical display for generating an optical signal

The invention relates to a visual display for generating an optical signal, the optical display Minim ^¬ least comprises a light source. The invention relates to white ^¬ terhin an insert for an optical display with the O- of claim berbegriff characteristics described. 8

Such visual display occurs in approximately ^¬ automation technology, plant engineering and in general on machines and plants. In general, operating conditions such as optimum operation, malfunction, congestion, etc., on machines or technical systems are made visible by optical displays, in particular signal towers. The visual displays must be visible over a long distance, whereby it is important that the light signal is not only sent out to one side or in a certain room angle, but the visual display must be from any spatial direction of persons, the respective technical Facility or machine supervise, can be seen. Duktionssicherheit for reasons of safety and the pro ^¬ an illumination of the entire space winkeis is desired with a homogeneous light intensity.

So far, so-called signal towers have been equipped with one incandescent lamp or several LEDs (light-emitting diodes). For the incandescent lamp, the illumination on the lower side was not complete, as the surfaces of the lamp holder and the lamp holder were not complete

Lamp sockets are not illuminated. In one or meh ^¬ reren an illumination LEDs of the own shadow of the LED is achieved via reflectors. The LED usually illuminates ei ^¬ ne lens or scattering element, whereby the light is broken and reflected in many directions. The distribution of the light intensity in the solid angle is inhomogeneous. It is apparent from the prior art that optical displays are currently available which can either illuminate the solid angle with inhomogeneous light intensity distribution or have a so-called inherent shadow. Intrinsic shadowing is defined as a shadow caused by components of the optical display itself, such as the light source.

From the document WO 2000-29785 Al a visual display is known, which contains one or more moldings and a light ^¬ source. The moldings are made of a transparent or semi-transparent plastic. The plastic contains one or more fluorescent substances. One or meh ^¬ eral light sources are arranged so that their light is radiated at certain regions of the surface of the molded article in these and transmitted in the shaped body. The mold ^¬ body includes means for selectively coupling out of light, so that at certain regions of the surface of the shaped body, the light is selectively extracted from the molding.

The object of the invention is to illuminate as ^far as possible the entire solid angle or all spatial directions with a homogeneous light intensity distribution.

This object is achieved in an optical display of the type mentioned above in that the optical display min ^¬ least one reflector for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission has.

Furthermore, the object is achieved by an insert for an optical display according to the features of claim 8.

The invention is based on the finding that the structural design of previous optical displays, such as signal towers, the problem arises that the illumination in the solid angle is spatially not uniform or homogeneous. There are always brighter and darker places, which in different distances differently good can be perceived. This fact has led in the past to misunderstandings on the part of the operating personnel and thus also to unnecessary downtime or waiting times. As a result of this problem, attempts have been made in the past to improve the illumination by a

Variety of light sources, such as LEDs, to ensure. Even with an optimal arrangement or distribution of the light sources in the optical display, this did not lead to the desired success. In addition, this solution requires a great deal of technical effort and costs because of the additional light sources.

The invention is further based on the fact that previously used shaped body depending on the arrangement of the light sources shadow or discontinuous, bright regions are generated. As a result, the visual display may consist of some rich ^¬ lines are not optimally detected. In addition, the high number of LEDs used in turn causes high costs.

According to the invention, the optical display for generating ei ^¬ nes optical signal at least one reflector for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission, so that it is possible to settle in any solid angle segment and in ge ^¬ velvet solid angle, a homogeneous, optical signal. The so-called inherent shadow, which occurs in conventional optical displays, is thereby eliminated by the shape of the transmitting and reflecting light control elements, such as the reflector and the light source out ^¬ forms such that the area of the light source or components of the optical Display would be obscured, yet lit. The reflector has a shape that guarantees a homogeneous illumination in every direction. Depending on the requirement, this shape can be a rotationally symmetrical shape, or a shell-like shape or an elliptical shape. Furthermore, shapes are more polygonal or rounder

Base possible, as well as a polyhedral three-dimensional shape. In the light distribution and the shape of the light source is advantageously used. A plane, flexible or dif- fuse light source combined functions already at least ei ^¬ nes light control element with the function of light to generie ^¬ ren and thus contributes to the homogenization of the lighting in. The illumination or the light intensity of the optical display can be further optimized with other light control elements. Furthermore, scattering disks or scattering elements, furthermore also called diffusers, can be used for the homogenization of the spatial light intensity.

An advantageous embodiment of a visual display provides a control element by at least one light source and a light ^¬ such as a reflector, formed optical display for emitting the optical signal with ho ^¬ mogener intensity simultaneously present in substantially all directions in space. By using several reflectors, it is possible to use the light energy of the light source more optimally and to illuminate the solid angle homogeneously.

Advantageously, an embodiment has a Lichtquel- Ie, which represents a light film with diffusion function. The light film here combines the function of a light ^¬ source and the function of a diffuser. This reduces the number of components as well as reduces costs. Furthermore, with a simpler geometry, retooling or inserting such light sources into dome-based optical displays is easy. Furthermore, an LED is advantageous because its intrinsic shade is small and the effort to illuminate this property is less than with a light bulb.

Advantageously, an embodiment includes at least one light control element, such as a diffuser, for illuminating the intrinsic shade and / or for controlling the light intensity distribution of the light source. By means of the diffuser, it is possible to operate a plurality of light sources in the optical display, wherein a stronger illumination is possible with ho ^¬ mogener illumination of the solid angle. Next ^¬ out the diffuser is advantageous if the light source as in Case of an LED compared to the dome, or the optical display itself is relatively small.

Advantageously, the optical display a Lichtkon- troll element, in particular a reflector, that the shape of a cone, a cylinder, a paraboloid, or the shape ei ^¬ nes cone segment, a cylindrical segment, a Parabo- loidsegmentes, or a similar form. By a sensible ^¬ full choice of the shape of the reflector optimum illumination of the intrinsic shade of the light source can be ensured. In this way, the reflector can be specially tailored to the dimensions of the light source. Furthermore, by an optimal choice of the shape of the reflector, an inhomogeneous light distribution can be created, which can project information into the solid angle through the structure of the intensity distribution. In this way, an indirect signaling of different signals via different calottes, or Kalotteneinsätze is possible.

In an advantageous embodiment of an insert for an optical display for generating an optical signal, the insert has at least one light source, wherein the insert for uniform illumination in substantially all spatial directions at least one light control element has, which for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission of the light source emitted light is provided. The advantage of the insert is the fact that existing optical displays, in particular signal ^¬ column, for example, operate in Kalottenbasis, can be retrofitted with such an insert containing at least a reflector and a light source. In this way, conventional visual displays or Sig ^¬ can nalsäulen in visual displays converted that have no intrinsic shadows and illuminate the entire solid angle homogeneous. Furthermore, the advantages of the listed embodiments apply accordingly for use for a visual display. The retrofittability of existing products th is guaranteed without additional effort, the posi ^¬ onsfreiheit guarantees easy installation.

Advantageously, in the embodiments of the optical display and the embodiments of the insert in addition to the homogeneous illumination further optional, signaling possibilities are given. When using a light tube as a diffuser no additional devices such as brackets or the like are used. The light pipe also does not have a certain distance to the light source ^¬ positio ned. But the color signal is in this case be ^¬ particularly easy, because the representation of numbers or letters can be selected by means of the signal tower use purpose. These numbers and numbers are applied to the tube and projected into the space. This could in ^¬ play as an additional help information on the occurred in the system error show. The noise source of o- source of error is hereby message via a corresponding error ^¬ to recognize more quickly, eg "1" = failure of the machine ne, "2" = loss of the feed, etc.

Further advantageous embodiments and preferred Wide Erbil ^¬ developments of the invention are given in the figure description and / or the dependent claims.

In the following the invention will be described and explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the figures.

Show it:

1 shows a sectional view of a visual display according to the prior art,

2 shows a sectional view of a first embodiment ^¬ example of an optical display, 3 shows a view of a second ^exemplary embodiment of an optical display,

4 shows a three-dimensional view of the second exemplary embodiment,

5 shows a view of a luminous foil,

6 shows a view of a third embodiment of an optical display, and

7 shows a three-dimensional view of the third Ausfüh ^¬ tion example.

1 shows a sectional view of an optical An ^¬ show according to the prior art. The optical display is designed as a dome-based signal tower. The dome 15 includes the interior containing the light source 3. This optical display has an inherent shade because the shadows created by the light source are not compensated by any optical component.

Figure 2 shows a sectional view of a first exporting ^¬ approximately example of an optical display 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the cap 15 is also used to control the light source 3 and to accommodate the reflector. 6 The combi nation ^¬ from the reflector 6 and the light source 3 is when one compares Figure 2 with Figure 1, signal columns which are already in use, can be installed or the existing signal tower can be retrofitted. The reflector 6 is provided for the transmission of part of the light of the light source 3, so that the spatial directions that are covered by the reflector 6, can be illuminated with light. Furthermore, the reflector 6 is designed to reflect a part of the light of the light source 3, wherein by the cone shape and the

Position of the reflector 6 of the intrinsic shade of the light source 3 can be effectively compensated. FIG. 3 shows a view of a second exemplary embodiment of an optical display 1. This optical display 1 is ^{likewise embodied} on a dome-based basis. As in Figures 1 and 2, the light source 3 is in the center. By the arrival of a light tube 14, for example, the company BNF Pro ^¬ files, with diffuse light distribution and smaller, internal reflection in the tubes in combination with a bright LED is a continuous, uniform 360 ° illumination of the room as well as the height bring ensured , The light tube 14 performs the function of a diffuser 7, and may be colored or tinted. Furthermore, this light tube 14 is nachträg ^¬ Lich installed in a signal light. This requires only some light source 3, for example, an LED, in the Sig ^¬ nalleuchte be present to ensure the problem of overall illumination. This eliminates the need for a variety of LEDs, which result in a similar but still less homogeneous distribution of light intensity. The introduction of the light tube 14 requires no additional devices, such as brackets or the like and it does not have to be positioned at a certain distance from the LED to ensure the light distribution. In particular, in this embodiment, in addition to pure Farbsignalgaben the representation of numbers or numbers is possible. To this end, the numbers or digits can be projected so that additional information visually on the machine or technical installation passed ^¬ to the room. Due to the continuous 360 ° illumination, the opti ^¬ cal display 1 can be seen in free view from any position. In this case, the quality of light in the room can very effectively suppress any possible shadowing due to a combination with a reflector in the sense of the first exemplary embodiment. The use of an LED means a cost-effective saving. In contrast to this, currently at least a plurality of LEDs is required for comprehensive illumination. The retrofittability of existing products, a simple Mon ^¬ days, and interchangeability without additional effort is gege ^¬ ben. FIG. 4 shows a three-dimensional view of the second ^exemplary embodiment. As already described in FIG. 3, the light pipe 14 is easily exchangeable or placeable in the dome-based optical display 1. This figure verdeut- light once again that the light tube 14 holds a Diffusionsfunkti ^¬ on the light. All further features have already been described in FIG.

FIG. 5 shows a view of a luminescent film as used in the third exemplary embodiment. The

Luminescent film 5 usually has two terminals 13, which are used to power the luminescent film 5. Luminous foils can be provided in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is thus possible to use luminescent foils of different lengths for different calottes.

FIG. 6 shows a view of a third exemplary embodiment of an optical display 1. This optical display 1 is provided for a luminous film 5. The luminescent film 5 is here rolled inserted or placed in the dome 15. The Ka ^¬ Lotte 15 has no further light source. The luminescent film 5 simultaneously assumes the function of the light source 3 and the function of a diffuser 7. About the pins 11, the power supply of the luminescent film 5 is ensured by the connection of the terminals 13. Since the luminescent film 5 now assumes a cylindrical shape as a result of a bend, no further supports than the inside walls of the dome 15 are necessary. As in the previous embodiments, the complete penetration of the luminous film into the cap 15 ensures complete illumination. There is only one source of light ^¬, which is designed as light-emitting film 5, are required to fully illuminate the cap 15 in the height and circumference of 360 °. Various light sources 3 such as LEDs are thus completely eliminated, but may alternatively be used in addition. The advantage procuring feature in this embodiment is the fact that the light ^¬ foil 5 can be connected directly to the power supply, and at the same time as a light source and light distributor a- yaws. Similar to the embodiments previously, luminescent sheets 5 of different colors can be used. In addition, the purchase or use of different-colored calottes is unnecessary. Universal translucent domes can thus be used or exchanged as needed in connection with use with luminescent films. In addition to the color variance and the size variance is to be considered. The light films 5 are available in different sizes and can be adapted to the needs of the illumination. The film required in addition to connecting any special installation position, such as a central installation as the off ^¬ lighting is uniform. Another advantage is the reduction of the necessary electronics, as only a single film may be sufficient to achieve the desired illumination. Due to the universal use of the transparent dome a variety of already used dome falls away, such as the fluted Kalot ^¬ te or colored dome. As a side effect, the La ^¬ fall gerhaltungskosten as a consequence of variation reduction.

Figure 7 shows a three dimensional view of the third guide from ^¬ example of an optical display 1 is designed as a signal column ^¬. The cap 15 accommodates the Leuchtfo ^¬ lie 5, wherein the leadership of the connecting cable 13 of the Leuchtfo- lie 5, which are connected to the pins 11, is illustrated.

In summary, the invention relates to an optical display, as well as an insert for an optical display, for generating an optical signal, wherein the display has at least one light source. The optical display is able to ensure a uniform illumination of the room, wherein hindering, spatial intensity fluctuations are achieved by an illumination of the inherent shadows of the components of the optical display. For uniform illumination in substantially all spatial directions, at least one light control element is provided which is provided for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission of the light emitted by the light source.

Claims

claims

1. Optical display (1) for generating an optical Sig ^¬ nals, wherein the optical display (1) at least one light source (3), characterized in that the optical display (1) for uniform illumination in substantially all spatial directions at least a light control ^element has on ^¬ which is provided for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission of the light source (3) emitted light.

2. Optical display (1) according to claim 1, wherein the Lichtkon ^¬ troll element is a diffuser (7) and / or a reflector (6).

3. Optical display (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the light source (3) is a luminous film (5), a Glühbir ^¬ ne, or a light-emitting diode.

4. Optical display (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one light control element for illumination ^¬ tion of an intrinsic shade of the optical display (1) is vorgese ^¬ hen.

5. Optical display (1) according to one of the preceding Ansprü ^¬ che, wherein at least one light control element for controlling the spatial light intensity distribution of the light source (3) is provided.

6. An optical display (1) according to any preceding che Ansprü ^¬, wherein at least one light-control element or the shape of a cone, the shape of a paraboloid, or the shape of a cone segment, the shape of a ^¬ Paraboloidsegmentes or a similar shape.

7. Optical display (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical display (1) as a "signal column" is pre ^¬ see.

8. insert for an optical display (1) for generating an optical signal, wherein the insert at least one light source ^¬ (3), characterized in that the use for uniform illumination in substantially all spatial directions has at least one light control element, wel ^¬ Ches for simultaneous light reflection and light transmission of the light emitted by the light source (3) is provided.

9. Use according to claim 8, wherein the light control element is a diffuser (7) and / or a reflector (6).

10. Use according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the

Light source (3) is a luminous film (5), a light bulb, or a light-emitting diode.

11. Use according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein at least one light control element for illuminating a Eigen ^¬ shadow of the optical display (1) is provided.

12. Insert according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein Minim ^¬ least is provided a light control element to control the spatial light intensity distribution of the light source (3).

13. Insert according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein Minim ^¬ least having a cone segment or the shape of a Paraboloidsegmentes or similar shape, a light control element has the shape of a cone, the shape of a paraboloid or shape.

14. Insert according to one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the optical display (1) is provided as a "signal tower".