WO2013023242A1 - Illumination device including matrix of light elements - Google Patents

Illumination device including matrix of light elements Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013023242A1
WO2013023242A1 PCT/AU2012/000941 AU2012000941W WO2013023242A1 WO 2013023242 A1 WO2013023242 A1 WO 2013023242A1 AU 2012000941 W AU2012000941 W AU 2012000941W WO 2013023242 A1 WO2013023242 A1 WO 2013023242A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
panel
face
illumination device
matrix
light
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2012/000941
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Steven DE CARLO
Dominic De Carlo
Original Assignee
Panelux Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2011903230A external-priority patent/AU2011903230A0/en
Application filed by Panelux Australia Pty Ltd filed Critical Panelux Australia Pty Ltd
Priority to AU2012297561A priority Critical patent/AU2012297561A1/en
Publication of WO2013023242A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013023242A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G09EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09FDISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F13/00Illuminated signs; Luminous advertising
    • G09F13/18Edge-illuminated signs
    • GPHYSICS
    • G02OPTICS
    • G02BOPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being planar or of plate-like form
    • G02B6/0033Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide
    • G02B6/0035Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it
    • G02B6/004Scattering dots or dot-like elements, e.g. microbeads, scattering particles, nanoparticles
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V19/00Fastening of light sources or lamp holders
    • F21V19/04Fastening of light sources or lamp holders with provision for changing light source, e.g. turret
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21VFUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V23/00Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
    • F21V23/04Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2103/00Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes
    • F21Y2103/10Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2105/00Planar light sources
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21LIGHTING
    • F21YINDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2115/00Light-generating elements of semiconductor light sources
    • F21Y2115/10Light-emitting diodes [LED]
    • GPHYSICS
    • G02OPTICS
    • G02BOPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being planar or of plate-like form
    • G02B6/0033Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide
    • G02B6/0035Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it
    • G02B6/00362-D arrangement of prisms, protrusions, indentations or roughened surfaces
    • GPHYSICS
    • G02OPTICS
    • G02BOPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems the light guides being planar or of plate-like form
    • G02B6/0065Manufacturing aspects; Material aspects

Definitions

  • This invention relates to an illumination device and more particularly relates to a side lit panel for illuminating an area or an object.
  • Existing lighting arrangements for lighting an area have used fluorescent lights typically with one or more separate diffuser panels.
  • Each diffuser panel has a series of raised portions or projections on one or both sides that are designed to receive light emanating from the fluorescent tube and dispersing light in different directions so that, for example when lighting a room, an area is illuminated as widely as possible.
  • fluorescent tubes use an excessive amount of power, typically up to HOW by four tubes in a one square metre panel. Furthermore, there is increased maintenance associated with having to replace the tube with a new tube. This places a particularly large work load in office spaces where many fluorescent tubes are used and will need to eventually be replaced. Such tubes are separate to the diffuser panel and therefore make it awkward and time costly to replace each tube. The diffuser panel has to be removed, followed by the old tube, then the replacement tube is inserted and thereafter the diffuser panel replaced. This is a very time consuming process.
  • the patterns arranged on each of the diffuser panels are not efficient enough to provide an even distribution of light and even power output to all parts of the area to be illuminated.
  • the present invention seeks to overcome one or more of the above disadvantages by providing an improved illumination device.
  • an illumination device including:
  • a panel having a first face, a second face, a first side and a second side, the panel further having a matrix of light elements extending through the panel;
  • the matrix may extend in a plane from the fust side to the second side within the panel and not at the first face or second face.
  • the matrix of light elements can extend at an angle with respect to the first face and the second face.
  • the matrix may extend substantially at the middle of the panel from the first side to the second side.
  • the matrix may extend from the first side to the second side at either the first face or the second face.
  • the panel may be formed by at least two sub-panels placed back-to back. One or both of the adjacent faces of each set of back-to-back sub-panels can have the matrix extending therealong. Each sub-panel preferably has substantially the same width.
  • the device may wither include a diffuser panel attachable to either the first face or the second face.
  • the device may further include a second diffuser panel attachable the other of the fust face or the second face.
  • the first side of the panel preferably is substantially parallel to the second side of the panel.
  • the light source may extend adjacent the entire first side or adjacent the entire second side of the panel. Alternatively, the light source extends adjacent the entire first side and the entire second side of the panel.
  • an illumination device including:
  • a panel having a first face, a second face, a first side and a second side, the panel further having a matrix of light elements extending through the panel;
  • light from the light source enters the panel through the first side or second side to impinge on the light elements in the matrix and deflect therefrom through the first face or the second face;
  • the matrix extends in a plane from the first side to the second side within the panel and not at the first face or second face.
  • the illumination device according to either the first or second aspect may be insertable into a mounting attached to a structure comprising a pair of brackets and at least one fastening device.
  • Figure 1(a) is a side view of an illumination device according to an embodiment of the invention having a panel with a matrix of light elements on a first face and a second face;
  • Figure 1(b) is a side view of an illumination device according to another embodiment of the invention having a panel with a matrix of light elements on a first face
  • Figure 1(c) is a side view of an illumination device according to a further embodiment of the invention having a panel with a matrix of light elements located at about the middle region of the panel;
  • Figures 1(d) and 1(e) are side views of an illumination device according to further embodiments of the invention having a pair of sub-panels formed back-to-back with a matrix of light elements between the sub-panels;
  • Figure 2 is a sectional view of part of a panel fitted to a mounting bracket of a structure
  • Figure 3 is a sectional view of the whole panel shown fitted to a pair of mounting brackets of a structure.
  • an illumination device (100) that includes a panel or core (102) made from a substantially transparent material such as an acrylic sheet or perspex sheet.
  • a panel or core (102) made from a substantially transparent material such as an acrylic sheet or perspex sheet.
  • an array or matrix of light elements such as dots, (106).
  • Alternative names include a light element matrix or dot matrix of light elements.
  • a dot matrix or dot array of light elements on a lower or second face (108) of panel (102) there is also a dot matrix or dot array of light elements (110).
  • Each of the matrices (106) and (110) generally comprise minute dots collectively having a diameter of at least 50 ⁇ , that can be spaced evenly or at regular intervals. Typical spacing between dots is from 0.1 ⁇ up to 120 or ISOum.
  • the larger spacing is generally further away from the light source (112) adjacent first side or edge (114) for producing light through the interior of the panel ( 102).
  • the diameter of the dots in each array can be made progressively larger the further away the dots are from the light source (112). Near to the light source (112), the dots are generally made much closer together and are smaller in size compared to larger distances from the light source (112). By doing this, a much more even distribution of light is available through the panel (102) and in the illuminated area.
  • An array of light sources (112) will be distributed along first side or edge (114) and alternatively or in addition along second side or edge (IIS).
  • the light sources (112) are light emitting devices or LEDs. Single or double LEDs can be used providing an output from either face (104) or (108) of up to 10,000 lumens/square metre, or up to 4,950 lumens/metre or alternatively up to 45 watts/metre.
  • Light that enters the panel (102) through first side (114) will be reflected and refracted off the dots in each array (106, 110). Internal refraction ftom the top face (104) and the bottom face (108) will either be reflected or refracted elsewhere from within the panel (102). Generally an even distribution of light protrudes through the space beyond each of the faces (104, 108) as indicated by the arrows to illuminate an area or an object, such as an advertising board.
  • a first or top diffuser (116) and a second or bottom diffuser (118) are available to provide protection to the array of dots (106, 110). This also assists in diffusing and directing the light emanating from the core or interior panel (102),
  • FIG. IB there is shown a single dot matrix of Ught elements (106) on the top face (104).
  • light originates from the array of light sources (112) through first side (114) into the interior of the core panel (102).
  • the light is then emitted through the top face (104) in the direction of the arrows shown and through diffuser (116) and also through the bottom face (108) through diffuser (118) as indicated by the arrows.
  • diffuser 116
  • the bottom face (108) through diffuser (118) as indicated by the arrows.
  • the reflected light will then proceed to move in a direction back to the arcay of dots (106) to either go through the difruser (116) or be reflected or refracted again from the dots.
  • the reflective layer is preferably 2mm to 3mm thick and can be made from acetate sheet or polymer sheet.
  • the dot matrix (106, 110) can be formed by a laser etching process or another etching process as is known in the art.
  • a laser can be programmed to make specific dot matrix patterns such as the size of each of the dots and the spacing between each of the dots, Bach of the outer diffuseis (116) and (118) can be bonded to respective faces (104, 108) of the core panel (102).
  • the dot matrix (106) being on top face (104)
  • it can be located on bottom face (108) with a reflective layer optionally formed at or around top face (104) to affect the light in a manner similar to that described in Figure IB.
  • FIG. 1 C there is shown a further embodiment of the invention in which a single dot matrix of light elements (120) is shown at an interior plane of the core panel (102).
  • the dot matrix (120) is substantially in the middle of the core panel (102). It can be produced by a laser etched pattern as is known in the art. It is found that a more even distribution of light is possible through the use of such a subsurface etched panel.
  • Light input by the LED array (112) to the interior panel (102) is reflected and refracted off each of the dots in the array (120) and can pass through or be reflected from each of the surfaces (104, 108).
  • the light component which is reflected within the panel (102) can be reflected or refracted by any one or more of the dots in the array (120) and then output through either the diffusers (116, 118).
  • the thickness of the core panel is between 10mm and 16mm and that of each diffuser about 3mm.
  • the matrix of light elements ( 120) is shown in a plane substantially parallel to faces (104, 108), the matrix can be at an angle with respect to faces (104, 108) or be curved in traversing a path from side (114) to side (115) or a combination of curved, angled or parallel.
  • a range of angles between 5 degrees and 10 degrees, and preferably 7 degrees, of the plane of the matrix with respect to either faces (104) and (108) can be used.
  • the etching of the light element array (120) inside the core (102) can be at different angles with respect to these faces.
  • the spacing and size of the dots in the matrix can be varied.
  • Figures ID and IE there are shown alternative embodiments to Figure 1 C whereby two separate centre panels (122, 124) are joined or bonded together back to back.
  • Either one or both of the panels (122, 124) can have an array of dots etched at a surface.
  • this can be on a bottom surface (123) and in the case of panel (124) the dots can be etched on a top surface (125).
  • the panel (122) is reversed or turned over so that a dot matrix on top surface (127) in Figure ID is turned over, and then bonded to panel (124) so that the array or dot matrix (126) exists at the middle of the joined panels (122, 124). Operation of the distribution of the light emanating from the array (112) is similar to that described in relation to Figure 1C.
  • each panel (122, 124) is aligned the same way so that the array of dots are at bottom surface (123) of panel (122) and the array of dots on panel (124) are at the top surface (125) of panel (124) and effectively increase the number of dots at the interface between the panels (122, 124).
  • the panels (122, 124) are aligned in a reverse manner.
  • the thickness of each panel (122. 124) is preferably about 5mm but can be made a different thickness.
  • Bracket (200) has a clip (202) which can be opened and closed in order to release an existing panel assembly (100) and replace it with a new panel assembly (100).
  • a securing means (203), such as a magnet on each of the clip (202) and panel (100), is used to insert and replace an old panel.
  • an end (204) of clip (202) distal from the securing means (203) is attachable to bracket (200) in a corresponding groove by suitable fastening means, such as a magnet or Velcro hook and loop material
  • suitable fastening means such as a magnet or Velcro hook and loop material
  • the LED strip (112) on each panel (200) has a common lead/plug which can be inserted into a corresponding socket of an LED driver in or around the bracket (200).
  • the LED driver can be used to control dimming of the panel or to control colour intensities of the LEDs.
  • FIG. 3 Shown in Figure 3 there is a panel (100) installed in a pair of brackets (200, 300) having respective clips (202, 302).
  • Each of the panels (100), including diffusers (116, 118) are typically 0.5 to 2 square metres in area.
  • the size and spacing of the dots used depends on the distance from the LBDs and the size of the panel. Possible configurations for the light elements are spheres, half spheres, circles and diamonds.
  • the percentage of light reflected or refracted by the matrix of light elements (106, 110, 120) will vary with the design and position of the matrix or matrices in respective devices.

Abstract

An illumination device (100) including a panel (102) having a first face (104), a second face (108), a first side (114) and a second side (115), the panel (102) further having a matrix of light elements (106) extending through the panel (102) and a light source (112) adjacent at least one of the first or second sides (114, 115), wherein light from the light source (112) enters the panel (102) through the first side (114) or second side (115) to impinge on the light elements (106) in the matrix and deflect therefrom through the first face (104) or the second face (108).

Description

ILLUMINATION DEVICE INCLUDING MATRIX OF LIGHT ELEMENTS
Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an illumination device and more particularly relates to a side lit panel for illuminating an area or an object.
Background of the Invention
Existing lighting arrangements for lighting an area, such as a room or for lighting a display board, have used fluorescent lights typically with one or more separate diffuser panels. Each diffuser panel has a series of raised portions or projections on one or both sides that are designed to receive light emanating from the fluorescent tube and dispersing light in different directions so that, for example when lighting a room, an area is illuminated as widely as possible.
However fluorescent tubes use an excessive amount of power, typically up to HOW by four tubes in a one square metre panel. Furthermore, there is increased maintenance associated with having to replace the tube with a new tube. This places a particularly large work load in office spaces where many fluorescent tubes are used and will need to eventually be replaced. Such tubes are separate to the diffuser panel and therefore make it awkward and time costly to replace each tube. The diffuser panel has to be removed, followed by the old tube, then the replacement tube is inserted and thereafter the diffuser panel replaced. This is a very time consuming process.
In addition to the one or more diffuser panels being separate to the light source, the patterns arranged on each of the diffuser panels are not efficient enough to provide an even distribution of light and even power output to all parts of the area to be illuminated.
The present invention seeks to overcome one or more of the above disadvantages by providing an improved illumination device.
Summary of the Invention
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an illumination device including:
a panel having a first face, a second face, a first side and a second side, the panel further having a matrix of light elements extending through the panel; and
a light source adjacent at least one of the first or second sides;
wherein light from the light source enters the panel through the first side or second side to impinge on the light elements in the matrix and deflect therefrom through the first face or the second face. The matrix may extend in a plane from the fust side to the second side within the panel and not at the first face or second face. The matrix of light elements can extend at an angle with respect to the first face and the second face. The matrix may extend substantially at the middle of the panel from the first side to the second side. The matrix may extend from the first side to the second side at either the first face or the second face.
In an embodiment the panel may be formed by at least two sub-panels placed back-to back. One or both of the adjacent faces of each set of back-to-back sub-panels can have the matrix extending therealong. Each sub-panel preferably has substantially the same width. The device may wither include a diffuser panel attachable to either the first face or the second face. The device may further include a second diffuser panel attachable the other of the fust face or the second face. The first side of the panel preferably is substantially parallel to the second side of the panel. The light source may extend adjacent the entire first side or adjacent the entire second side of the panel. Alternatively, the light source extends adjacent the entire first side and the entire second side of the panel.
According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an illumination device including:
a panel having a first face, a second face, a first side and a second side, the panel further having a matrix of light elements extending through the panel; and
a light source adjacent at least one of the fu st or second sides;
wherein light from the light source enters the panel through the first side or second side to impinge on the light elements in the matrix and deflect therefrom through the first face or the second face;
wherein further the matrix extends in a plane from the first side to the second side within the panel and not at the first face or second face.
The illumination device according to either the first or second aspect may be insertable into a mounting attached to a structure comprising a pair of brackets and at least one fastening device.
Brief Description of the Drawings
Preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings, in which:
Figure 1(a) is a side view of an illumination device according to an embodiment of the invention having a panel with a matrix of light elements on a first face and a second face;
Figure 1(b) is a side view of an illumination device according to another embodiment of the invention having a panel with a matrix of light elements on a first face; Figure 1(c) is a side view of an illumination device according to a further embodiment of the invention having a panel with a matrix of light elements located at about the middle region of the panel;
Figures 1(d) and 1(e) are side views of an illumination device according to further embodiments of the invention having a pair of sub-panels formed back-to-back with a matrix of light elements between the sub-panels;
Figure 2 is a sectional view of part of a panel fitted to a mounting bracket of a structure; and
Figure 3 is a sectional view of the whole panel shown fitted to a pair of mounting brackets of a structure.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
Referring to Figure 1 A there is shown an illumination device (100) that includes a panel or core (102) made from a substantially transparent material such as an acrylic sheet or perspex sheet. On a top or first face (104) of panel (102) there is located an array or matrix of light elements, such as dots, (106). Alternative names include a light element matrix or dot matrix of light elements. Similarly, on a lower or second face (108) of panel (102) there is also a dot matrix or dot array of light elements (110). Each of the matrices (106) and (110) generally comprise minute dots collectively having a diameter of at least 50μηι, that can be spaced evenly or at regular intervals. Typical spacing between dots is from 0.1 μπι up to 120 or ISOum. The larger spacing is generally further away from the light source (112) adjacent first side or edge (114) for producing light through the interior of the panel ( 102). The diameter of the dots in each array can be made progressively larger the further away the dots are from the light source (112). Near to the light source (112), the dots are generally made much closer together and are smaller in size compared to larger distances from the light source (112). By doing this, a much more even distribution of light is available through the panel (102) and in the illuminated area. An array of light sources (112) will be distributed along first side or edge (114) and alternatively or in addition along second side or edge (IIS). Typically the light sources (112) are light emitting devices or LEDs. Single or double LEDs can be used providing an output from either face (104) or (108) of up to 10,000 lumens/square metre, or up to 4,950 lumens/metre or alternatively up to 45 watts/metre.
Light that enters the panel (102) through first side (114) will be reflected and refracted off the dots in each array (106, 110). Internal refraction ftom the top face (104) and the bottom face (108) will either be reflected or refracted elsewhere from within the panel (102). Generally an even distribution of light protrudes through the space beyond each of the faces (104, 108) as indicated by the arrows to illuminate an area or an object, such as an advertising board.
A first or top diffuser (116) and a second or bottom diffuser (118) are available to provide protection to the array of dots (106, 110). This also assists in diffusing and directing the light emanating from the core or interior panel (102),
Referring to Figure IB there is shown a single dot matrix of Ught elements (106) on the top face (104). In this orientation light originates from the array of light sources (112) through first side (114) into the interior of the core panel (102). The light is then emitted through the top face (104) in the direction of the arrows shown and through diffuser (116) and also through the bottom face (108) through diffuser (118) as indicated by the arrows. It is possible to place an opaque layer or a reflective layer at face (108) to fully reflect any light refracted by the array of dots (106) through the interior of the core panel (102). The reflected light will then proceed to move in a direction back to the arcay of dots (106) to either go through the difruser (116) or be reflected or refracted again from the dots. The reflective layer is preferably 2mm to 3mm thick and can be made from acetate sheet or polymer sheet.
The dot matrix (106, 110) can be formed by a laser etching process or another etching process as is known in the art. A laser can be programmed to make specific dot matrix patterns such as the size of each of the dots and the spacing between each of the dots, Bach of the outer diffuseis (116) and (118) can be bonded to respective faces (104, 108) of the core panel (102). Instead of the dot matrix (106) being on top face (104), it can be located on bottom face (108) with a reflective layer optionally formed at or around top face (104) to affect the light in a manner similar to that described in Figure IB.
Referring to Figure 1 C there is shown a further embodiment of the invention in which a single dot matrix of light elements (120) is shown at an interior plane of the core panel (102). In this instance the dot matrix (120) is substantially in the middle of the core panel (102). It can be produced by a laser etched pattern as is known in the art. It is found that a more even distribution of light is possible through the use of such a subsurface etched panel. Light input by the LED array (112) to the interior panel (102) is reflected and refracted off each of the dots in the array (120) and can pass through or be reflected from each of the surfaces (104, 108). The light component which is reflected within the panel (102) can be reflected or refracted by any one or more of the dots in the array (120) and then output through either the diffusers (116, 118). Ideally the thickness of the core panel is between 10mm and 16mm and that of each diffuser about 3mm.
Although the matrix of light elements ( 120) is shown in a plane substantially parallel to faces (104, 108), the matrix can be at an angle with respect to faces (104, 108) or be curved in traversing a path from side (114) to side (115) or a combination of curved, angled or parallel. A range of angles between 5 degrees and 10 degrees, and preferably 7 degrees, of the plane of the matrix with respect to either faces (104) and (108) can be used. The etching of the light element array (120) inside the core (102) can be at different angles with respect to these faces. As mentioned previously, the spacing and size of the dots in the matrix can be varied.
Inferring to Figures ID and IE there are shown alternative embodiments to Figure 1 C whereby two separate centre panels (122, 124) are joined or bonded together back to back. Either one or both of the panels (122, 124) can have an array of dots etched at a surface. In the case of panel (122), in Figure ID this can be on a bottom surface (123) and in the case of panel (124) the dots can be etched on a top surface (125). In Figure IE, the panel (122) is reversed or turned over so that a dot matrix on top surface (127) in Figure ID is turned over, and then bonded to panel (124) so that the array or dot matrix (126) exists at the middle of the joined panels (122, 124). Operation of the distribution of the light emanating from the array (112) is similar to that described in relation to Figure 1C.
Referring to Figure ID the core panels (122, 124) are aligned the same way so that the array of dots are at bottom surface (123) of panel (122) and the array of dots on panel (124) are at the top surface (125) of panel (124) and effectively increase the number of dots at the interface between the panels (122, 124). In Figure IE, the panels (122, 124) are aligned in a reverse manner. The thickness of each panel (122. 124) is preferably about 5mm but can be made a different thickness.
Referring to Figure 2 there is shown a sectional view of part of panel assembly (100) fitted to a fixture or structure by a bracket (200). Bracket (200) has a clip (202) which can be opened and closed in order to release an existing panel assembly (100) and replace it with a new panel assembly (100). A securing means (203), such as a magnet on each of the clip (202) and panel (100), is used to insert and replace an old panel. Similarly an end (204) of clip (202) distal from the securing means (203) is attachable to bracket (200) in a corresponding groove by suitable fastening means, such as a magnet or Velcro hook and loop material The LED strip (112) on each panel (200) has a common lead/plug which can be inserted into a corresponding socket of an LED driver in or around the bracket (200). The LED driver can be used to control dimming of the panel or to control colour intensities of the LEDs.
Shown in Figure 3 there is a panel (100) installed in a pair of brackets (200, 300) having respective clips (202, 302).
It is seen that it is much easier to change a complete core panel and diffuser in one operation by simply undoing clips (202, 302), taking out the existing panel and replacing it with a new panel and actuating the clips again. Energy savings are possible with the present invention using 25W to 30W of power (over one square metre of panel) typically, compared with up to 140W of power using four fluorescent tubes over about one square metre.
Each of the panels (100), including diffusers (116, 118) are typically 0.5 to 2 square metres in area. The size and spacing of the dots used depends on the distance from the LBDs and the size of the panel. Possible configurations for the light elements are spheres, half spheres, circles and diamonds. The percentage of light reflected or refracted by the matrix of light elements (106, 110, 120) will vary with the design and position of the matrix or matrices in respective devices.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:
1. An illumination device including:
a panel having a first face, a second face, a first side and a second side, the panel further having a matrix of light elements extending through the panel; and
a light source adjacent at least one of the first or second sides;
wherein light from the light source enters the panel through the first side or second side to impinge on the light elements in the matrix and deflect therefrom through the first face or the second face.
2. An illumination device according to claim 1 wherein the matrix extends in a plane from the first side to the second side within the panel and not at the first face or second face,
3 , An illumination device according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the matrix of light elements extends at an angle with respect to the first face and the second face.
4 , An illumination device according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the matrix extends substantially at the middle of the panel from the first side to the second side.
5 , An illumination device according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the matrix extends from the first side to the second side at either the first face or the second face.
6. An illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the panel is formed by at least two sub-panels placed back-to back.
7. An illumination device according to claim 6 wherein one or both of the adjacent faces of each set of back-to-back sub-panels has the matrix extending therealong.
8. An illumination device according to claim 7 wherein each sub-panel has substantially the same width.
9. An illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims further including a diffuser panel attachable to either the first face or the second face.
10. An illumination device according to claim 9 further including a second diffuser panel attachable the other of the first face or the second face.
11. An illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first side is substantially parallel to the second side.
12. An illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the light source extends adjacent the entire first side or adjacent the entire second side.
13 , An illumination device according to any of claims 1 to 11 wherein the light source extends adjacent the entire first side and the entire second side.
14. An illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the light source is one or more LEDs.
15. An illumination device including:
a panel having a first face, a second face, a first side and a second side, the panel further having a matrix of light elements extending through the panel; and
a light source adjacent at least one of the first or second sides;
wherein light from the light source enters the panel through the first side or second side to impinge on the light elements in the matrix and deflect therefrom through the first face or the second face;
wherein further the matrix extends in a plane from the first side to the second side within the panel and not at the first face or second face.
16. Ah illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims insertable into a mounting attached to a structure comprising a pair of brackets and at least one fastening device.
PCT/AU2012/000941 2011-08-12 2012-08-10 Illumination device including matrix of light elements WO2013023242A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

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AU2011903230A AU2011903230A0 (en) 2011-08-12 Illumination device
AU2011903230 2011-08-12

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WO2013023242A1 true WO2013023242A1 (en) 2013-02-21

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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4860171A (en) * 1987-10-20 1989-08-22 T. Chatani & Co., Ltd. Surface illuminating apparatus
US5625968A (en) * 1990-09-20 1997-05-06 Illumination Research Group, Inc. Display system
US20010010631A1 (en) * 1996-09-26 2001-08-02 Eleven Lighting Pty, Limited Illuminated display systems

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4860171A (en) * 1987-10-20 1989-08-22 T. Chatani & Co., Ltd. Surface illuminating apparatus
US5625968A (en) * 1990-09-20 1997-05-06 Illumination Research Group, Inc. Display system
US20010010631A1 (en) * 1996-09-26 2001-08-02 Eleven Lighting Pty, Limited Illuminated display systems

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TW201314128A (en) 2013-04-01

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