WO2013095117A2 - Device and method to illuminate objects - Google Patents

Device and method to illuminate objects Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013095117A2
WO2013095117A2 PCT/NL2012/050885 NL2012050885W WO2013095117A2 WO 2013095117 A2 WO2013095117 A2 WO 2013095117A2 NL 2012050885 W NL2012050885 W NL 2012050885W WO 2013095117 A2 WO2013095117 A2 WO 2013095117A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
foil
light
reflective surface
beamed
exit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NL2012/050885
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2013095117A3 (en
Inventor
Eric Alexander DIRVEN
Original Assignee
Dqm B.V. Nederland
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
Application filed by Dqm B.V. Nederland filed Critical Dqm B.V. Nederland
Publication of WO2013095117A2 publication Critical patent/WO2013095117A2/en
Publication of WO2013095117A3 publication Critical patent/WO2013095117A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light 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
    • G02B6/0081—Mechanical or electrical aspects of the light guide and light source in the lighting device peculiar to the adaptation to planar light guides, e.g. concerning packaging
    • G02B6/0086—Positioning aspects
    • G02B6/0088—Positioning aspects of the light guide or other optical sheets in the package
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V14/00—Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements
    • F21V14/02—Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements by movement of light sources
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light 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
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S6/00—Lighting devices intended to be free-standing
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING 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
    • F21Y2111/00—Light sources of a form not covered by groups F21Y2101/00-F21Y2107/00
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light 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
    • G02B6/0013—Means for improving the coupling-in of light from the light source into the light guide
    • G02B6/0015—Means for improving the coupling-in of light from the light source into the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it
    • G02B6/002—Means for improving the coupling-in of light from the light source into the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it by shaping at least a portion of the light guide, e.g. with collimating, focussing or diverging surfaces
    • G02B6/0021—Means for improving the coupling-in of light from the light source into the light guide provided on the surface of the light guide or in the bulk of it by shaping at least a portion of the light guide, e.g. with collimating, focussing or diverging surfaces for housing at least a part of the light source, e.g. by forming holes or recesses
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light 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
    • G02B6/0013—Means for improving the coupling-in of light from the light source into the light guide
    • G02B6/0023—Means for improving the coupling-in of light from the light source into the light guide provided by one optical element, or plurality thereof, placed between the light guide and the light source, or around the light source
    • G02B6/0028—Light guide, e.g. taper
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light 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
    • G02B6/0033—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide
    • G02B6/0058—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide varying in density, size, shape or depth along the light guide
    • G02B6/006—Means for improving the coupling-out of light from the light guide varying in density, size, shape or depth along the light guide to produce indicia, symbols, texts or the like
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/0001—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings specially adapted for lighting devices or systems
    • G02B6/0011—Light 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
    • G02B6/0075—Arrangements of multiple light guides
    • G02B6/0076—Stacked arrangements of multiple light guides of the same or different cross-sectional area

Definitions

  • lamps or luminaires with all kind of light sources.
  • the light sources emit light, the objects reflect light waves and become visible.
  • various sorts of lighting have appeared, such as incandescent lights, halogen light, sodium lights, TL tubes and most recently LED lights.
  • a means to reach this goal is a device to illuminate objects, comprising an at least partially form fitting to the object attachable light guiding and plastically deformable foil and reflective surface means applied to at least a part of the surface of the foil for beamed light to exit the foil.
  • Light is inserted into the light guiding foil, and is kept there due to total internal reflection until specific reflective surface means are met or reflection is no longer possible.
  • the reflective means cause internal reflection to be limited and allow light beams to exit the light guiding foil.
  • the reflective means may be applied on the interior of, the exterior of or within the light guiding foil. In this fashion a wide array of objects, transparent or not, can be lit by attaching this foil.
  • the flexible foil can be used to change the function of a form changeable lighting source. When light is selectively emitted from a flexible sheet, one could change the intensity of the light by manipulating the shape of the sheet.
  • the flexible sheet can be a curved surface, wherein the light can be concentrated in one spot in a first position, and light can be diffused in a second position, wherein changing position can easily be achieved thanks to the flexible surface of the sheet.
  • the flexible sheet can also be used to change the shape of the lighting source to whatever shape desired by the user. By changing the shape of the reflective surface of the flexible light foil, one could bend, twist or curve the light source to focus light emitted from the light source specifically in one area, where illumination is required. When illumination of this specific area is no longer required, one could change the shape of the light source again, when required.
  • the reflective surface of the flexible foil is changeable between at least two preferred positions, wherein the two preferred positions correspond with different bundles of emitted light from the reflective surfaces.
  • a control mechanism In order to change the foil between the at least two preferred positions, a control mechanism is provided.
  • the control mechanism can for instance be arranged to change the shape of the foil.
  • the flexible foil as well as the control mechanism can for instance be placed in a holder, which is able to keep the foil in a certain position.
  • the control mechanism can be arranged such that in a first preferential position, the foil is emitting light in a different direction compared to then the foil is in a second preferential position. That way, when switching positions, light can be directed to different areas.
  • the control mechanism can also be arranged such that in a first preferential position, the foil is emitting light with a different intensity compared to when the foil is in a second preferential position.
  • the flexible foil can for instance cause emitted light to be a converging bundle of light, which can be focussed, wherein in the second preferential position, the foil could cause emitted light to form a diverging bundle of light, in order to light a larger surface.
  • the foil could cause emitted light to form a diverging bundle of light, in order to light a larger surface.
  • the reflective surface means comprises grooves in or on the foil and can be printed, laser cut and/or etched into the foil to present a pattern on the foil for the selective exiting of light.
  • the reflective means may be applied on the inside, the outside or within the light guiding foil.
  • light emitting arrows for airplanes or other public transportation means can be turned on in emergencies, or light emitting decorations can be placed at home, with printed patterns representing for instance Christmas icons.
  • Light-emitting patterns can also be used to indicate workers on the side of the road, wearing a jacket made of foil with a recognisable pattern, making them easier to spot, reducing possible accidents.
  • materials with a refractive index between 1.0 and 1.9, preferably between 1.3 and 1.6 are used. These indices will cause total internal reflection of the light within the transparent medium in air.
  • a second medium with lower refractive indices can be applied on top of the primary medium in order to attempt to achieve total internal reflection within the numerical aperture of the thus created waveguide.
  • the attachable foil is between 0.1mm and 10 mm thick. In this way the foil can be applied without adding too much weight to the object and/or changing the structural properties of the object to be illuminated.
  • the foil generally comprises one of the following materials:
  • multiple layers of foil are used, creating a laminate of foil.
  • Each layer has its own independent reflective surface means for the selective exiting of light beams.
  • multiple colours can be entered into their own layer of foil, and upon exiting create a multicoloured effect.
  • the layers are placed on top of each other a sense of depth can also be created because light seems to be coming from behind other light.
  • Multiple layers of foil can also be used to display images that seem to move by turning specific layers on and off in a suitable order. Another way of achieving this effect can be by using coherent laser beams. Laser beams are inserted into the foil wherein the foil is equipped with at least one hologram. After the laser beams reflect on the holograms a real like three-dimensional image appears.
  • the foil is stretchable. This adds a level of flexibility to the foil and also adds to possibility to inflate the foil. This could result for instance in light-emitting balloons, made of light guiding foil, but also in inflatable lights, boats and all sorts of other inflatable promotional means.
  • the foil itself is the object to be illuminated. Objects that can be made from foil can easily be turned into illuminated objects.
  • a light source is connected to the foil.
  • the connection between the two is made such that it attempts to guide and/or reflect as much light as possible into the (layers of) foil. This ensures efficient lighting because minimal light is lost in places where the light is not required.
  • the light source will be larger compared to the foil that it is guided to.
  • the connection between light source and foil could comprise a wedge and/or a prism to make sure as much light emitted from the light source as possible is entered into the light guiding foil.
  • the light source is at least partially encased into the foil.
  • the connection between the two would be redundant.
  • LED's Light Emitting Diodes
  • One powerful LED combined with a light guiding foil could replace conventional TL lighting and/or complete LED strips in LED TL's.
  • bonding agents such as an adhesive coating
  • the object comprises a rough surface for example, adding a bonding agent in gel-form would even out the rough patches and ensure a snug and firm connection between the foil and the object.
  • the invention provides a method to fabricate objects that can be illuminated, comprising the attachment of a foil to the object to be illuminated in a way described in detail above and supplying an adjacent to the foil located light source and/or a light source that is encased into the foil.
  • the attachment of the foil to the object can be preceded by the application of an at least partially liquid bonding agent, such as a gel, to the object. This depends mainly on the structure of the surface of the object to be illuminated.
  • Another method to fabricate objects that can be illuminated comprises the preforming of a foil, to be at least partially form fitting with the object. Every day utensils often come in standard forms and shapes and illuminating those could be achieved by preforming a light guiding foil in a shape form fitting with the utensil, where the foil simply snaps on. This step simplifies applying the foil, which can then be used straight out of the box. Yet another method to attach the foil to the object is using shrinkage. A generally used embodiment is the heat shrinkable tubing, which shrinks upon heat treatments and attaches itself firmly to the object it is placed on. A similar method can be used with the light guiding foil. One method to provide the present invention with energy is by using induction.
  • the electric for inductive power supply can be encased into the foil, allowing the powering of the foil by inductive means. In this way the foil can be powered semi-wireless.
  • the light guiding foil is protected by a protective layer and/or coating. This would protect the foil from for example the elements and scratching, ensuring a long lifespan of the light guiding foils.
  • FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of the invention
  • FIG. 3 shows a schematic situation where the light source is embedded in the flexible medium
  • FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a multiple source effect
  • FIG. 8 shows a schematic representation of a form changeable object
  • FIG. 9 shows another schematic representation of a form changeable object.
  • Figure 1 shows an object to be lit (1) according to the present invention, equipped with an at least partially form fitting light guiding and plastically deformable foil (2) with reflective surface means (3) attached to at least part of the surface of the foil and an adjacent light source (4).
  • Figure 2 shows the light guiding foil (2), where light from a light source (4) is entered into the foil (2) with a prism and/or wedge (6), and where light beams are reflected by the connection between the light source (5) and the foil until they enter the prism and/or wedge (6) and foil (2).
  • Figure 3 shows a light source (4) embedded in the light-guiding foil (2) with reflective surface means (3). Light is entered into the foil and internally reflected until the reflective surface means are reached.
  • Figure 4 shows multiple light sources (4a, 4b and 4c), which enter light beams into multiple light-guiding foils (2a, 2b and 2c). Light is exiting the foils at the reflecting surface means (3a, 3b and 3c), creating a multiple colour, moving of depth effect.
  • Figure 5 shows three means of powering the light source.
  • a battery (7) powers the light source (4).
  • a power wire exits the medium, to be plugged into the power grid.
  • inductive wiring (8) is encased into the foil, powering the light source (4) in a semi-wireless fashion. The inductive part of the power supply can be placed outside the light-guiding medium.
  • Figure 6 shows two main figures (A) and (B).
  • Figure A shows the insertion of light into a transparent foil surrounded by air. Light is reflected internally on the interface with air, except if the critical angle is exceeded. Painted dots scatter the light, changing its directions. Gradually the light will exit the transparent foil, in the figure the foil is tapered, increasing the angle of each reflection and forcing the light to exit the foil.
  • Figure Bl shows an illuminated poster attached to a window, using wedges to insert light into the transparent foil and to contain the light in the poster area.
  • Figure B2 shows how a wedge can be used to insert light into a transparent foil.
  • Figure B3 shows a similar construction compared to B2, but now a LED is placed inside the wedge.
  • Figure 7 shows multiple embodiments of the present invention (Fig CI - Fig C8).
  • Fig CI shows a table, equipped with the foil. The overhanging light is not needed because the table itself can light up.
  • Fig C2 shows Christmas decorations, which are printed on the foil to light up in a recognisable pattern.
  • Fig C3 shows light-guiding foil that is attached to inner walls, lighting up a complete room.
  • Fig C4 shows the top of a light raft, which is visible in the dark because it emits light.
  • Fig C5 shows the possibility of laying the foil on the floor, lighting a room from below.
  • Fig C6 shows a bus, equipped with light guiding foil on the sides, for promotional means, and/or greater visibility and safety.
  • Figure C7 shows an illuminated life vest made of transparent foil. This way a safety vest is not only reflecting light, but also lights up all the time, increasing visibility and safety.
  • Figure C8 finally shows an umbrella made from and/or equipped with light guiding foil, illuminating possible dark alleys.
  • Figure 8 shows a holder (9), which is arranged to keep the reflective surface (10) of a flexible foil (11) in a preferred position.
  • the holder is also equipped with control means (12), arranged to change the foil in another position, when the user requires to do so.
  • Figure 9 shows two embodiments, wherein figure 9a and 9b show one embodiment, end figure 9c and 9d the other.
  • Figure 9a and 9b show a holder (9), which holds a flexible foil (10) into position.
  • light is converging from the topside, and diverging from the downside.
  • control mechanism (12) Upon changing the foil from a first preferential position (figure 9a) to a second preferential position (figure 9b), using control mechanism (12), these function interchange.
  • the control mechanism is representen bij a nob.
  • Figures 9c and 9d show a similar embodiment, where the position of the control mechanism with respect to the flexible foil is changed compared to figures 9a and 9b.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)
  • Details Of Measuring Devices (AREA)
  • Push-Button Switches (AREA)
  • Planar Illumination Modules (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device to illuminate an object, comprising an at least partially light guiding and plastically deformable foil;reflective surface means applied to at least a part of the surface of the foil for beamed light to exit the foil, wherein at least the reflective surface of the foil is deformable between two preferential positions, wherein the positions correspond to different beams of beamed light exiting the foil through the reflective surface means.

Description

Device and method to illuminate objects
In general, objects and environments are illuminated by lamps or luminaires with all kind of light sources. The light sources emit light, the objects reflect light waves and become visible. As a light source, various sorts of lighting have appeared, such as incandescent lights, halogen light, sodium lights, TL tubes and most recently LED lights.
Traditional lighting (from the outside) does not only illuminate the object(s) to be illuminated, but also illuminates their (surrounding) objects. In this fashion the object(s) to be illuminated become(s) visible, but are not highlighted, and the effect is not as remarkable as if the objects where the only objects that were illuminated. In other cases objects are illuminated from the inside. For instance, a light source is placed within a thin structure, making the structure seem to light up as a whole. This does however require some form of transparency of the object for light beams to be able to traverse. In some cases this can be undesirable or even unachievable. Light guides that guide light through a surface to illuminate the entire surface also exist and are relatively energy efficient, however, they are rigid and not very versatile. The goal of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the named problems, or to provide a usable alternative. A means to reach this goal is a device to illuminate objects, comprising an at least partially form fitting to the object attachable light guiding and plastically deformable foil and reflective surface means applied to at least a part of the surface of the foil for beamed light to exit the foil. Light is inserted into the light guiding foil, and is kept there due to total internal reflection until specific reflective surface means are met or reflection is no longer possible. The reflective means cause internal reflection to be limited and allow light beams to exit the light guiding foil. The reflective means may be applied on the interior of, the exterior of or within the light guiding foil. In this fashion a wide array of objects, transparent or not, can be lit by attaching this foil. Every day utensils can be turned into light sources increasing key features as usability and safety. Visibility of fast moving objects like trains can be increased by illuminating the whole train, rather than just a couple of lights on the front of the train. The reverse would also work; a plane covered in foil emitting the same colour as the sky it flies in, would be harder to spot from the ground. In an embodiment of the present invention the flexible foil can be used to change the function of a form changeable lighting source. When light is selectively emitted from a flexible sheet, one could change the intensity of the light by manipulating the shape of the sheet. For instance, the flexible sheet can be a curved surface, wherein the light can be concentrated in one spot in a first position, and light can be diffused in a second position, wherein changing position can easily be achieved thanks to the flexible surface of the sheet. The flexible sheet can also be used to change the shape of the lighting source to whatever shape desired by the user. By changing the shape of the reflective surface of the flexible light foil, one could bend, twist or curve the light source to focus light emitted from the light source specifically in one area, where illumination is required. When illumination of this specific area is no longer required, one could change the shape of the light source again, when required.
The reflective surface of the flexible foil is changeable between at least two preferred positions, wherein the two preferred positions correspond with different bundles of emitted light from the reflective surfaces.
In order to change the foil between the at least two preferred positions, a control mechanism is provided. The control mechanism can for instance be arranged to change the shape of the foil. The flexible foil as well as the control mechanism can for instance be placed in a holder, which is able to keep the foil in a certain position.
The control mechanism can be arranged such that in a first preferential position, the foil is emitting light in a different direction compared to then the foil is in a second preferential position. That way, when switching positions, light can be directed to different areas.
The control mechanism can also be arranged such that in a first preferential position, the foil is emitting light with a different intensity compared to when the foil is in a second preferential position. This way, when switching positions, one could change the brightness of light. In the first preferential position, the flexible foil can for instance cause emitted light to be a converging bundle of light, which can be focussed, wherein in the second preferential position, the foil could cause emitted light to form a diverging bundle of light, in order to light a larger surface. This way, when changing the positions, one could change between two separate functions, being in this case a spotlight function, and a general lighting function.
In one embodiment the reflective surface means comprises grooves in or on the foil and can be printed, laser cut and/or etched into the foil to present a pattern on the foil for the selective exiting of light. The reflective means may be applied on the inside, the outside or within the light guiding foil. For instance, light emitting arrows for airplanes or other public transportation means can be turned on in emergencies, or light emitting decorations can be placed at home, with printed patterns representing for instance Christmas icons. Light-emitting patterns can also be used to indicate workers on the side of the road, wearing a jacket made of foil with a recognisable pattern, making them easier to spot, reducing possible accidents.
In another embodiment of the present invention materials with a refractive index between 1.0 and 1.9, preferably between 1.3 and 1.6 are used. These indices will cause total internal reflection of the light within the transparent medium in air. When the surrounding of the medium is different from air, a second medium with lower refractive indices can be applied on top of the primary medium in order to attempt to achieve total internal reflection within the numerical aperture of the thus created waveguide.
In another embodiment of the invention the attachable foil is between 0.1mm and 10 mm thick. In this way the foil can be applied without adding too much weight to the object and/or changing the structural properties of the object to be illuminated. The foil generally comprises one of the following materials:
- PMMA and PC for thinner layers and applications where less light can be lost
- PVC, epoxy resins and silicon gels for thicker layers and cheaper
applications In yet another embodiment of the present invention multiple layers of foil are used, creating a laminate of foil. Each layer has its own independent reflective surface means for the selective exiting of light beams. In this way multiple colours can be entered into their own layer of foil, and upon exiting create a multicoloured effect. Because the layers are placed on top of each other a sense of depth can also be created because light seems to be coming from behind other light. Multiple layers of foil can also be used to display images that seem to move by turning specific layers on and off in a suitable order. Another way of achieving this effect can be by using coherent laser beams. Laser beams are inserted into the foil wherein the foil is equipped with at least one hologram. After the laser beams reflect on the holograms a real like three-dimensional image appears. This results in an easy three-dimensional image that does not take up to much space. In another embodiment of the present invention the foil is stretchable. This adds a level of flexibility to the foil and also adds to possibility to inflate the foil. This could result for instance in light-emitting balloons, made of light guiding foil, but also in inflatable lights, boats and all sorts of other inflatable promotional means. In another embodiment of the present invention the foil itself is the object to be illuminated. Objects that can be made from foil can easily be turned into illuminated objects.
In another embodiment of the present invention a light source is connected to the foil. The connection between the two is made such that it attempts to guide and/or reflect as much light as possible into the (layers of) foil. This ensures efficient lighting because minimal light is lost in places where the light is not required. In some embodiments of the invention the light source will be larger compared to the foil that it is guided to. In those cases the connection between light source and foil could comprise a wedge and/or a prism to make sure as much light emitted from the light source as possible is entered into the light guiding foil.
In another embodiment of the invention the light source is at least partially encased into the foil. In this fashion the connection between the two would be redundant. This way as much light emitted from the light source as possible enters the foil and reduces the number of connections, which benefits robustness. Preferably, Light Emitting Diodes (LED's) are used as a light source because of their relatively small size, great energy efficiency and comparatively low heat production. One powerful LED combined with a light guiding foil could replace conventional TL lighting and/or complete LED strips in LED TL's.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention bonding agents, such as an adhesive coating, are applied to connect the foil to the object. When the object comprises a rough surface for example, adding a bonding agent in gel-form would even out the rough patches and ensure a snug and firm connection between the foil and the object.
The invention provides a method to fabricate objects that can be illuminated, comprising the attachment of a foil to the object to be illuminated in a way described in detail above and supplying an adjacent to the foil located light source and/or a light source that is encased into the foil. The attachment of the foil to the object can be preceded by the application of an at least partially liquid bonding agent, such as a gel, to the object. This depends mainly on the structure of the surface of the object to be illuminated.
Another method to fabricate objects that can be illuminated comprises the preforming of a foil, to be at least partially form fitting with the object. Every day utensils often come in standard forms and shapes and illuminating those could be achieved by preforming a light guiding foil in a shape form fitting with the utensil, where the foil simply snaps on. This step simplifies applying the foil, which can then be used straight out of the box. Yet another method to attach the foil to the object is using shrinkage. A generally used embodiment is the heat shrinkable tubing, which shrinks upon heat treatments and attaches itself firmly to the object it is placed on. A similar method can be used with the light guiding foil. One method to provide the present invention with energy is by using induction. In general light sources require access to the power grid with power plugs and/or internal batteries. In this embodiment the electric for inductive power supply can be encased into the foil, allowing the powering of the foil by inductive means. In this way the foil can be powered semi-wireless. In another embodiment of the present invention the light guiding foil is protected by a protective layer and/or coating. This would protect the foil from for example the elements and scratching, ensuring a long lifespan of the light guiding foils.
With the present invention wiring can be reduced, a lot of square meters of existing transparent objects (like windows and umbrellas) become available for illumination and promotional means, safety can be increased and a lot of energy can be saved. The present invention will be explained into more detail with reference to the following non-limiting figures, wherein:
- Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the invention;
- Figure 2 shows schematically the reflecting of light and the entering of light beams;
- Figure 3 shows a schematic situation where the light source is embedded in the flexible medium;
- Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a multiple source effect;
- Figure 5 shows multiple power supplies for the light source.
- Figure 6 shows light insertion in the foil;
- Figure 7 shows multiple embodiments of the present invention;
- Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a form changeable object;
- Figure 9 shows another schematic representation of a form changeable object.
Figure 1 shows an object to be lit (1) according to the present invention, equipped with an at least partially form fitting light guiding and plastically deformable foil (2) with reflective surface means (3) attached to at least part of the surface of the foil and an adjacent light source (4).
Figure 2 shows the light guiding foil (2), where light from a light source (4) is entered into the foil (2) with a prism and/or wedge (6), and where light beams are reflected by the connection between the light source (5) and the foil until they enter the prism and/or wedge (6) and foil (2). Figure 3 shows a light source (4) embedded in the light-guiding foil (2) with reflective surface means (3). Light is entered into the foil and internally reflected until the reflective surface means are reached. Figure 4 shows multiple light sources (4a, 4b and 4c), which enter light beams into multiple light-guiding foils (2a, 2b and 2c). Light is exiting the foils at the reflecting surface means (3a, 3b and 3c), creating a multiple colour, moving of depth effect.
Figure 5 shows three means of powering the light source. In case A, a battery (7) powers the light source (4). In case B, a power wire exits the medium, to be plugged into the power grid. In case C, inductive wiring (8) is encased into the foil, powering the light source (4) in a semi-wireless fashion. The inductive part of the power supply can be placed outside the light-guiding medium.
Figure 6 shows two main figures (A) and (B). Figure A shows the insertion of light into a transparent foil surrounded by air. Light is reflected internally on the interface with air, except if the critical angle is exceeded. Painted dots scatter the light, changing its directions. Gradually the light will exit the transparent foil, in the figure the foil is tapered, increasing the angle of each reflection and forcing the light to exit the foil. Figure Bl shows an illuminated poster attached to a window, using wedges to insert light into the transparent foil and to contain the light in the poster area. Figure B2 shows how a wedge can be used to insert light into a transparent foil. Figure B3 shows a similar construction compared to B2, but now a LED is placed inside the wedge.
Figure 7 shows multiple embodiments of the present invention (Fig CI - Fig C8).
• Fig CI shows a table, equipped with the foil. The overhanging light is not needed because the table itself can light up.
• Fig C2 shows Christmas decorations, which are printed on the foil to light up in a recognisable pattern.
• Fig C3 shows light-guiding foil that is attached to inner walls, lighting up a complete room.
• Fig C4 shows the top of a light raft, which is visible in the dark because it emits light. • Fig C5 shows the possibility of laying the foil on the floor, lighting a room from below.
• Fig C6 shows a bus, equipped with light guiding foil on the sides, for promotional means, and/or greater visibility and safety.
• Figure C7 shows an illuminated life vest made of transparent foil. This way a safety vest is not only reflecting light, but also lights up all the time, increasing visibility and safety.
• Figure C8 finally shows an umbrella made from and/or equipped with light guiding foil, illuminating possible dark alleys.
Figure 8 shows a holder (9), which is arranged to keep the reflective surface (10) of a flexible foil (11) in a preferred position. The holder is also equipped with control means (12), arranged to change the foil in another position, when the user requires to do so. Figure 9 shows two embodiments, wherein figure 9a and 9b show one embodiment, end figure 9c and 9d the other. Figure 9a and 9b show a holder (9), which holds a flexible foil (10) into position. In the holder in figure 9a light is converging from the topside, and diverging from the downside. Upon changing the foil from a first preferential position (figure 9a) to a second preferential position (figure 9b), using control mechanism (12), these function interchange. The control mechanism is representen bij a nob.
Figures 9c and 9d show a similar embodiment, where the position of the control mechanism with respect to the flexible foil is changed compared to figures 9a and 9b.

Claims

Claims
1. Device to illuminate an object, comprising:
an at least partially light guiding and plastically deformable foil;
- reflective surface means applied to at least a part of the surface of the foil for beamed light to exit the foil,
wherein
at least the reflective surface of the foil is deformable between at least two preferential positions, wherein the positions correspond to different beams of beamed light exiting the foil through the reflective surface means.
2. Device according to claim 1, comprising a holder to keep the foil in the preferential positions.
Device according to claim 2, comprising a control mechanism, to chang
between the at least two preferential positions .
Device according to claim 3, wherein the control mechanism is adapted to have the foil exit beamed light in a different direction in the first position compared to the second position.
Device according to claim 3, wherein the control mechanism is adapted to have the foil exit beamed light with different intensity in the first position compared to the second position.
Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the light exits the foil in a converging bundle in the first position, and in a diverging bundle in the second position.
Device to illuminate an object, comprising:
an at least partially form fitting to the object attachable light guiding and plastically deformable foil;
reflective surface means applied to at least a part of the surface of the foil for beamed light to exit the foil wherein
- the foil is provided with at least one hologram; and
- the light is beamed into the foil by a laser; and
- the hologram is forming a three-dimensional image upon illumination of the laser.
8. Device according to claim 7, comprising an adhesive, to connect the foil to the object.
9. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reflective surface means are applied to the foil in a pattern, for the selective exiting of beamed light.
10. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the foil has a refractive index between 1.0 and 1.9, in particular between 1.3 and 1.6.
11. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the foil has a thickness between 0.1 and 10 mm, in particular between 0.5 and 5 mm.
12. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the foil comprises at least one of the following materials:
- PMMA
- PC
Transparent epoxies
Silicon gels.
13. Device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a laminate of multiple layers of foil, each provided with reflective surface means applied to at least a part of the surface of the foil for beamed light to exit the foil, to display special effects and/or multiple colours.
14. Device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the foil is stretchable and/or inflatable.
15. Device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a connection to couple the foil with a light source.
16. Device according to claim 15, wherein the connection comprises a prism and/or a wedge.
17. Device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the light source is at least partially embedded in the foil.
18. Method of producing an illuminating object, comprising:
applying a foil according to claim 7 to an object that has to be illuminated; applying a light source near and/or inside the foil
19. Method according to claim 18, comprising:
applying the foil by adding an at least partially liquid adhesive on the object
20. Method according to claim 18 or 19, comprising preforming of the foil in a shape at least partially form-fitting to the object.
21. Method according to any of claims 18-20, comprising applying the foil to the object by shrinkage of the foil.
22. Method according to any of claims 18-21, comprising supplying energy to the light source by means of induction.
23. Method according to any of claims 18-22, comprising applying a protective layer over the foil.
24. Object, provided with a device according to any of claims 1-17, and/or produced according to a method according to any of claims 18-23.
PCT/NL2012/050885 2011-12-16 2012-12-13 Device and method to illuminate objects WO2013095117A2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2007980 2011-12-16
NL2007980A NL2007980C2 (en) 2011-12-16 2011-12-16 Device and method to illuminate objects.

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WO2013095117A3 WO2013095117A3 (en) 2013-09-12

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WO2013095117A3 (en) 2013-09-12

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