WO2025172149A1

WO2025172149A1 - Lighting system for animals perceiving violet light

Info

Publication number: WO2025172149A1
Application number: PCT/EP2025/053042
Authority: WO
Inventors: Maurice Alexander Hugo Donners
Original assignee: Signify Holding BV
Current assignee: Signify Holding BV
Priority date: 2024-02-15
Filing date: 2025-02-06
Publication date: 2025-08-21
Anticipated expiration: 2026-08-15

Abstract

The invention provides a light generating system (1000) configured to generate system light (1001) having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm, wherein relative to a total radiant flux of the system light (1001) in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 15-40% of the total radiant flux is within the 385-440 nm wavelength range, and 60-85% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-780 nm wavelength range, and wherein the system light (1001) has an R9 value of at maximum 85, and a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85.

Description

Lighting system for animals perceiving violet light

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a light generating system and a lighting device comprising such light generating system. The invention further relates to a system for hosting an animal in a space as well as a method for illumination such space.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Lighting for animal spaces is known in the art. US2024032511, for instance, describes a lighting system for a poultry house which includes a plurality of lights movable in the vertical direction, projecting light to different areas of the poultry house at prearranged times and projecting light of different intensity in the poultry house at prearranged times through the raising and lowering of the height of the lights. The lighting system provides adjustable parameters in the areas of the poultry house being lighted and the intensity of these areas across the interior of the poultry house.

US2016/030610A1 discloses a light fixture that includes at least one first light source that emits at a peak wavelength in a range of 380 nm to 420 nm and at least one second light source that emits at a different peak wavelength. The combined light output of the at least one first light source and the at least one second light source emits a colored light that is perceived as white light. The white light is defined by having a color rendering index (CRI) value of more than approximately 50. The combined light output has a proportion of spectral energy measured in the 380 nm to 420 nm range of greater than 20%.

US2021/187138A1A1 discloses a device for inactivating microorganisms that comprises a light emitter configured to emit a first light comprising a first wavelength in a range of 380 nm to 420 nm, a first light-converting material configured to convert a first portion of the first light to at least a second light comprising a second wavelength different from the first wavelength, and a second light-converting material configured to convert a second portion of the first light to at least a third light comprising a third wavelength different from the first wavelength. The first light, the second light, and the third light are mixed to form a disinfecting white light, wherein the first light makes up at least 10% of the disinfecting white light. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It appears that the eye sensitivity of many animal species may extend into the UV-A. Apart from brightness perception, it enables these animals to perceive ultraviolet contrasts in their environment (e.g. in plants, or urine tracks) and in the feathers or coats of their conspecifics. Not providing ultraviolet light is considered to lead to harmful unnatural behavior or disable essential natural behaviors. Ultraviolet vision appears to be relevant for many bird, mammal, reptile, amphibian, arthropod and fish species. Hence, for many animals it is considered to be necessary to provide ultraviolet light in indoor housing.

However, it was found whereas in many species, orders or classes in which ultraviolet sensitivity may be common, at least for some species, their shortest-wavelength- photoreceptor is violet-sensitive instead of ultraviolet sensitive. As an example, most but not all insects have a UV photoreceptor. Most Lepidoptera have a UV photoreceptor. Papileo Xuthus has both a UV and a Violet receptor (the latter peaking at 390nm). The closely related Papileo Aegeus lacks this UV receptor and only has a violet photoreceptor peaking at 390 nm. Other examples of Violet instead of UV sensitive insects are the Myrmecia gulosa (412 nm), Atrophaneura alcinous (420 nm), in the Pieridae, Colias erate (400 nm) and in the Noctuidea, the Anadevidia peponis (420 nm). Whereas many rodents such as the mouse, rat, gerbil and gopher are UV sensitive, the Guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) has a VS (violet sensitive) cone at 400 nm. In other species, such as the fish species rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and brown trout (Salmo trutta), young animals show a peak in their eye sensitivity in the UV-A, which shifts towards the violet with age, mainly due to the yellowing of the eye lens. Further, also chickens or other birds may have eye sensitivity in the violet. Therefore, it was found that for many animals where it was always believed that ultraviolet would be beneficial, it is possible to provide high quality lighting, giving the full color range of vision, enabling the related natural behaviors, providing a light spectrum enriched in violet instead of having additional UV-A. For instance, it was found that for chickens, using violet instead of ultraviolet would work at least as well. Practical experiments have shown that besides having a positive effect on social and pecking behavior, providing short wavelength light can also positively influence other behaviors such as the use of outdoor free range space by chickens housed in bams, activity and mating.

Amongst others, based on experiments, the wavelength distributions and radiative powers of the violet sources, required for sufficient animal color vision in the violet could be defined. Further, a mathematical model describing chicken color vision was made, based on the receptor sensitivities shown earlier. A tetrachromatic color space was defined based on the four single cones. For a given spectrum, the color points of the reflections of a large set of plumage samples were calculated. In one analysis, the color point differences between the violet-reflecting and not-violent-reflecting samples of the same birds were used as the quality metric. In another, the total volume of the space spanned by all color points in the tetrachromatic color space was used as a measure for the distinguishability of all plumage colors, similar to the way in which a Color Gamut Area is used in human color spaces. Both methods were used with or without a Von Kriess-like correction for chromatic adaptation.

Hence, it is an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative light generating system, e.g. for animal lighting, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of above-described drawbacks. The present invention may have as object to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

According to a first aspect, the invention provides a light generating system configured to generate system light having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm. Especially, in embodiments relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 15-40% of the total radiant flux is within the 385-440 nm wavelength range, and especially 60-85% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-780 nm wavelength range. Further, in embodiments the system light may have an R9 value of at maximum 85, and/or may have a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85. Therefore, especially the invention provides a light generating system configured to generate system light having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm, wherein relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 15-40% of the total radiant flux is within the 385-440 nm wavelength range, and 60-85% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-780 nm wavelength range, and wherein the system light has an R9 value of at maximum 85, and a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85. Further, in embodiments the spectral power distribution within the 385-440 nm wavelength range may comprise a spectral maximum within the 395-435 nm wavelength range.

With such system a space for hosting one or more (non-human) animals may be illuminated. Further, this may provide lighting that may be beneficial for the animals, such as birds, like poultry, such as chicken, or rodents. Such light may provide spectral intensity in the wavelength ranges useful or necessary for such animals. Further, such light may allow people in the space to perceive the animals and objects visually relatively well. As indicated above, the invention provides a light generating system configured to generate system light having a specific spectral power distribution. As discussed also below, in specific embodiments, the spectral power distribution of the system light may be controllable. The light generating system may comprise a single light generating device, or a plurality of light generating devices. Each light generating device may comprise one or more light sources, such as solid state light sources. Further, optionally one or more light generating devices may comprise luminescent materials.

The term “light source” may in principle relate to any light source known in the art. It may be a conventional (tungsten) light bulb, a low pressure mercury lamp, a high pressure mercury lamp, a fluorescent lamp, an LED (light emitting diode). In a specific embodiment, the light source comprises a solid state light source (such as an LED or laser diode (or “diode laser”)). The term “light source” may also relate to a plurality of light sources, such as 2-2000 (solid state) LED light sources. Hence, the term LED may also refer to a plurality of LEDs. Further, the term “light source” may in embodiments also refer to a so-called chip-on-board (COB) light source. The term “COB” especially refers to LED chips in the form of a semiconductor chip that is neither encased nor connected but directly mounted onto a substrate, such as a PCB. Hence, a plurality of light emitting semiconductor light source may be configured on the same substrate. In embodiments, a COB is a multi LED chip configured together as a single lighting module. The term “light source” may also refer to a chip scaled package (CSP). The term “light source” may refer to a semiconductor light-emitting device, such as a light emitting diode (LEDs), a resonant cavity light emitting diode (RCLED), a vertical cavity laser diode (VCSELs), an edge emitting laser, etc. The term “light source” may also refer to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), such as a passivematrix (PMOLED) or an active-matrix (AMOLED). In a specific embodiment, the light source comprises a solid-state light source (such as an LED or laser diode). In an embodiment, the light source comprises an LED (light emitting diode). The terms “light source” or “solid state light source” may also refer to a superluminescent diode (SLED). The term “light source” may (thus) refer to a light generating element as such, like e.g. a solid state light source, or e.g. to a package of the light generating element, such as a solid state light source, and one or more of a luminescent material comprising element and (other) optics, like a lens, a collimator. A light converter element (“converter element” or “converter”) may comprise a luminescent material comprising element. For instance, a solid state light source as such, like a blue LED, is a light source. A combination of a solid state light source (as light generating element) and a light converter element, such as a blue LED and a light converter element, optically coupled to the solid state light source, may also be a light source (but may also be indicated as light generating device). Hence, a white LED is a light source (but may e.g. also be indicated as (white) light generating device). In embodiments, the term “light source” may also refer to a combination of a light source, like an LED, and an optical filter, which may change the spectral power distribution of the light generated by the light source. Especially, the term “light generating device” may be used to address a light source and further (optical components), like an optical filter and/or a beam shaping element, etc. The term “light source” herein may also refer to a light source comprising a solid state light source, such as an LED or a laser diode or a superluminescent diode. The term “solid state light source”, or “solid state material light source”, and similar terms, may especially refer to semiconductor light sources, such as a light emitting diode (LED), a laser diode, or a superluminescent diode.

The light generating system may especially be configured to provide system light during operation of the light generating system. In an operational mode of the light generating system, the spectral power distribution may comprise spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm. Further, especially, in embodiments relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 15-40% of the total radiant flux is within the 385-440 nm wavelength range. Alternatively or additionally, especially, in embodiments relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 60-85% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-780 nm wavelength range. Further, in specific embodiments the system light may have an R9 value of at maximum 85. Alternatively or additionally, the system light may have a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85. From a point of view of energy efficiency, such values may be useful, while visibility and color rendering may still be sufficient for tasks of human to be executed in the space.

In specific embodiments, the system light may have a color rendering index selected from the range of at maximum 76, more especially at maximum 75. Such values may already be enough for perceiving well animals and/or objects in the space. Further in specific embodiments, the system light may have anR9 value of at maximum 25, or even only at maximum 0. In such embodiments, the energy efficiency may be high, will visibility and/or color rendering may still be good enough.

It appears beneficial when the spectral intensity in the 385-440 nm may be substantially in the 395-435 nm, more especially the 400-425 nm (sub)wavelength range. Therefore, in specific embodiments the spectral power distribution within the 385-440 nm wavelength range may comprise a spectral maximum (i.e. a peak or maximum) within the 395-435 nm wavelength range, more especially within the 400-425 nm (sub)wavelength range.

The desired spectral power distribution may be provided in several ways. For instance, a plurality of solid state light sources may be applied, like LEDs. Alternatively, one or more solid state light sources, in combination with one or more luminescent materials, may be applied, like PC LEDs (phosphor converted LEDs). Also PC LEDs may be applied wherein each PC LED provides the desired spectrum. However, in other embodiments, two or more solid state light sources, optionally together with one or more luminescent materials, may provide the desired spectrum.

In specific embodiments, the light generating system may comprise a first luminescent material, wherein at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range is provided by first luminescent material light of the first luminescent material. Such luminescent material may be pumped with a (relatively short wavelength) blue (solid state light source) pump, or with a violet pump. Hence, in embodiments the light generating system may comprise one or more of (i) a blue solid state light source as pump light source for the first luminescent material, and (ii) a violet solid state light source configured to provide at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range (and as solid state light source as pump light source for the first luminescent material). The violet solid state light source may have a dual function of providing at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range and pump of the luminescent materials. In such embodiments, the system light may be provided by one or more PC LEDs. In specific embodiments, the light generating system may comprise a (second) luminescent material, wherein at least part of the radiant flux within the 440-780 nm wavelength range is provided by second luminescent material light of the second luminescent material. Such luminescent material may be pumped with a (relatively short wavelength) blue (solid state light source) pump, or with a violet pump. Hence, in embodiments the light generating system may comprise one or more of (i) a blue solid state light source as pump light source for the second luminescent material, and (ii) a violet solid state light source configured to provide at least part of the radiant flux within the 440-780 nm wavelength range (and as solid state light source as pump light source for the second luminescent material). The violet solid state light source may have a dual function of providing at least part of the radiant flux within the 385- 440 nm wavelength range and pump of the luminescent materials. In such embodiments, the system light may be provided by one or more PC LEDs. The term “luminescent material” may also refer to a plurality of different luminescent materials.

In yet other embodiments, a plurality of LEDs is applied, wherein the spectral power distributions of the LEDs (without luminescent materials) provide the desired spectral power distribution. In such embodiments, the light generating system may comprise at least three, like at least four, different subsets of LEDs, wherein each subset comprises one or more LEDs (especially of the same bin) (but wherein thus LEDs from different subsets emit in different spectral wavelength ranges (and are of different bins)).

In embodiments, the light generating system is configured to generate system light having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity in the violet, blue, green, and yellow wavelength ranges. For instance, at least four different LEDs may be applied, or one or more PC LEDs. Also a single PC LED may be applied.

Further, in specific embodiments a correlated color temperature may be selected from the range of 1500-15000 K, such as especially 2000-13000 K, like in embodiments 2500-12500 K. For instance, CCTs between 2500-12000 K may be possible.

In embodiments, relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380- 780 nm wavelength range, at maximum 45% of the total radiant flux is within the 580-780 nm wavelength range. This may be sufficient for good spectral properties for the animals.

Further, especially relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380- 780 nm wavelength range, selected from the range of 15-35% of the total radiant flux is within the 380-440 nm wavelength range. Alternatively or additionally, especially relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, selected from the range of 5-25% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-480 nm wavelength range. Yet, alternatively or additionally, especially relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, selected from the range of 25-55% of the total radiant flux is within the 480-580 nm wavelength range (more especially selected from the range of 28- 45%). Further, alternatively or additionally, especially relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, selected from the range of 10-45% of the total radiant flux is within the 580-780 nm wavelength range. Hence, in embodiments relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range: (A) selected from the range of 15-35% of the total radiant flux is within the 380-440 nm wavelength range; (B) selected from the range of 5-25% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-480 nm wavelength range; (C) selected from the range of 25-55% of the total radiant flux is within the 480-580 nm wavelength range (more especially selected from the range of 28-45%; and (D) selected from the range of 10-45% of the total radiant flux is within the 580-780 nm wavelength range.

Especially, the system light may have no, or only a low amount of UV radiation. Therefore, in specific embodiments relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 200-780 nm wavelength range, at maximum 5% of the total radiant flux is within the 200-380 nm wavelength range, such as at maximum 2%, like more especially at maximum 1%, like selected from the range of 0-0.5%. UV radiation may be less desired in view of human safety and/or in view of energy efficiency.

With a control system, the radiant flux of the system light may be controlled. When the light generating system comprises two or more different light generating devices (having different spectral power distributions), a control system may also be applied to control a spectral power distribution of the system light. Hence, in embodiments, the light generating system may further comprise a control system configured to control one or more optical properties of the system light selected from the group of (i) radiant flux, (ii) correlated color temperature, and (iii) total radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range. For instance, when humans are within the space, the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range may temporarily be reduced.

Hence, as can be derived from the above, in embodiments the light generating system may comprise a plurality of light generating devices configured to provide the system light. In embodiments, the light generating devices are configured to provide essentially the same spectral power distributions. However, in other embodiments two or more (subsets of) light generating devices may be configured to provide (substantially) different spectral power distributions. Hence, the color points of the light of the different light generating devices may in embodiments differ.

In specific embodiments, colors or color points of a first type of light and a second type of light may be different when the respective color points of the first type of light and the second type of light differ with at least 0.01 for u’ and/or with at least 0.01 for v’, even more especially at least 0.02 for u’ and/or with at least 0.02 for v’. In yet more specific embodiments, the respective color points of first type of light and the second type of light may differ with at least 0.03 for u’ and/or with at least 0.03 for v’. Here, u’ and v’ are color coordinates of the light in the CIE 1976 UCS (uniform chromaticity scale) diagram. Spectral power distributions of different sources of light having centroid wavelengths differing least 10 nm, such as at least 20 nm, or even at least 30 nm may be considered different spectral power distributions, e.g. different colors. In general, the differences in centroid wavelengths will not be larger than about 400 nm, such as not more than 350 nm.

Hence, the control system may be configured to control the plurality of light generating devices.

In a further aspect, the invention provides a lighting device selected from the group of a lamp and a luminaire comprising the light generating system as defined herein. The luminaire may further comprise a housing, optical elements, louvres, etc. etc... The lamp or luminaire may further comprise a housing enclosing the light generating system. The lamp or luminaire may comprise a light window in the housing or a housing opening, through which the system light may escape from the housing. Hence, the lamp or the luminaire may in embodiments comprise a light exit window comprising a (solid) light transmissive material.

In yet a further aspect, the invention also provides a system, or especially an animal lighting system, configured to illuminate a space (in an agricultural environment) for an animal, wherein the system may comprise (a) the space for the animal and (b) the light generating system as defined herein (or the lighting device as defined herein), wherein the light generating system is configured to illuminate the space.

The term “space” may refer to an indoor space, such as in a stable, a barn, a poultry house, etc. Alternatively, the term “space” may refer to an outdoor space, such as in a field, a meadow, etc. The outdoor space may, in embodiments, be defined by boundaries, especially wherein the boundaries comprises a fence, like a fenced field, and/or especially wherein the boundaries comprise a natural boundary, such as a river, canal, or ditch. Especially, the term “space” may refer to an indoor space.

In embodiments, the system may be configured to manage livestock.

Further, in embodiments (of the system), the space may be configured to host a plurality of birds. Further, as indicated above, in embodiments the light generating system may comprise a plurality of light generating devices for providing the system light. Especially, in embodiments the plurality of light generating devices may be spaced apart on an elongated axis (A). Further, the system may in embodiments comprise a support line configured for supporting and/or electrically connecting the plurality of light generating devices. For instance, in embodiments the support line may be selected from a (i) a feed supply line, (ii) a shocker wire, and (iii) a water supply line. The plurality of birds may e.g. comprise a flock of birds. As indicated above, a control system may be applied to control the light generating system. It may also be possible to control the light generating system in dependence of a sensor signal related to one or more of temperature, humidity, air flow, etc. and/or related to animal behavior, or other aspects like number of animal, type of animals, age of animals, feeding time, etc. Therefore, in embodiments the system may further comprise a sensor, wherein the sensor may be configured to sense one or more of variable physical conditions of the space and animal behavior and generate a corresponding sensor signal, and wherein the control system is configured to control the system light in dependence of the sensor signal. The sensor may comprise a camera, a temperature sensor , a humidity sensors, etc. etc.

In yet a further aspect, the invention provides a method for illuminating a space for birds with system light, wherein the system light has a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm, wherein relative to a total radiant flux of the system light in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 15-40% of the total radiant flux is within the 385-440 nm wavelength range, and 60- 85% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-780 nm wavelength range, and wherein the system light has an R9 value of at maximum 85, and a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85, wherein the method comprises providing such system light to such space. Embodiments in relation to the light generating system as well as the system may also apply to the method.

The terms “visible”, “visible light” or “visible emission” and similar terms refer to light having one or more wavelengths in the range of about 380-780 nm. Herein, UV may especially refer to a wavelength selected from the range of 190-380 nm, such as 200-380 nm. The terms “light” and “radiation” are herein interchangeably used, unless clear from the context that the term “light” only refers to visible light. The terms “light” and “radiation” may thus refer to UV radiation, visible light, and IR radiation. In specific embodiments, especially for lighting applications, the terms “light” and “radiation” refer to (at least) visible light. The terms “violet light” or “violet emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 380-440 nm. In specific embodiments, the violet light may have a centroid wavelength in the 380-440 nm range. The terms “blue light” or “blue emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 440-490 nm (including some violet and cyan hues). In specific embodiments, the blue light may have a centroid wavelength in the 440-490 nm range. The terms “green light” or “green emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 490-560 nm. In specific embodiments, the green light may have a centroid wavelength in the 490-560 nm range. The terms “yellow light” or “yellow emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 560-590 nm. In specific embodiments, the yellow light may have a centroid wavelength in the 560-590 nm range. The terms “orange light” or “orange emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 590-620 nm. In specific embodiments, the orange light may have a centroid wavelength in the 590-620 nm range. The terms “red light” or “red emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 620-750 nm. In specific embodiments, the red light may have a centroid wavelength in the 620-750 nm range. The terms “cyan light” or “cyan emission”, and similar terms, especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 490-520 nm. In specific embodiments, the cyan light may have a centroid wavelength in the 490-520 nm range. The terms “amber light” or “amber emission”, and similar terms, may especially relate to light having a wavelength in the range of about 585-605 nm, such as about 590-600 nm. In specific embodiments, the amber light may have a centroid wavelength in the 585-605 nm range. The phrase “light having one or more wavelengths in a wavelength range” and similar phrases may especially indicate that the indicated light (or radiation) has a spectral power distribution with at least intensity or intensities at these one or more wavelengths in the indicate wavelength range. For instance, a blue emitting solid state light source will have a spectral power distribution with intensities at one or more wavelengths in the 440-490 nm wavelength range. Herein, UV (ultraviolet) may especially refer to a wavelength selected from the range of 190-380 nm, though in specific embodiments other wavelengths may also be possible.

The term “controlling” and similar terms especially refer at least to determining the behavior or supervising the running of an element. Hence, herein “controlling” and similar terms may e.g. refer to imposing behavior to the element (determining the behavior or supervising the running of an element), etc., such as e.g. measuring, displaying, actuating, opening, shifting, changing temperature, etc.. Beyond that, the term “controlling” and similar terms may additionally include monitoring. Hence, the term “controlling” and similar terms may include imposing behavior on an element and also imposing behavior on an element and monitoring the element. The controlling of the element can be done with a control system, which may also be indicated as “controller”. The control system and the element may thus at least temporarily, or permanently, functionally be coupled. The element may comprise the control system. In embodiments, the control system and element may not be physically coupled. Control can be done via wired and/or wireless control. The term “control system” may also refer to a plurality of different control systems, which especially are functionally coupled, and of which e.g. one control system may be a master control system and one or more others may be slave control systems. A control system may comprise or may be functionally coupled to a user interface.

The control system may also be configured to receive and execute instructions from a remote control. In embodiments, the control system may be controlled via an App on a device, such as a portable device, like a smartphone or an iPhone, a tablet, etc.. The device is thus not necessarily coupled to the lighting system, but may be (temporarily) functionally coupled to the lighting system.

Hence, in embodiments the control system may (also) be configured to be controlled by an App on a remote device. In such embodiments the control system of the lighting system may be a slave control system or control in a slave mode. For instance, the lighting system may be identifiable with a code, especially a unique code for the respective lighting system. The control system of the lighting system may be configured to be controlled by an external control system which has access to the lighting system on the basis of knowledge (input by a user interface of with an optical sensor (e.g. QR code reader) of the (unique) code. The lighting system may also comprise means for communicating with other systems or devices, such as on the basis of Bluetooth, Thread, WIFI, LiFi, ZigBee, BLE or WiMAX, or another wireless technology.

The system, or apparatus, or device may execute an action in a “mode” or “operation mode” or “mode of operation” or “operational mode”. The term “operational mode may also be indicated as “controlling mode”. Likewise, in a method an action or stage, or step may be executed in a “mode” or “operation mode” or “mode of operation” or “operational mode”. This does not exclude that the system, or apparatus, or device may also be adapted for providing another controlling mode, or a plurality of other controlling modes. Likewise, this may not exclude that before executing the mode and/or after executing the mode one or more other modes may be executed.

In embodiments a control system may be available, that is adapted to provide at least the controlling mode. Would other modes be available, the choice of such modes may especially be executed via a user interface, though other options, like executing a mode in dependence of a sensor signal or a (time) scheme, may also be possible. The operation mode may in embodiments also refer to a system, or apparatus, or device, which can only operate in a single operation mode (i.e. “on”, without further tunability). Hence, in embodiments, the control system may control in dependence of one or more of an input signal of a user interface, a sensor signal (of a sensor), and a timer. The term “timer” may refer to a clock and/or a predetermined time scheme.

The term “centroid wavelength”, also indicated as c, is known in the art, and refers to the wavelength value where half of the light energy is at shorter and half the energy is at longer wavelengths; the value is stated in nanometers (nm). It is the wavelength that divides the integral of a spectral power distribution into two equal parts as expressed by the formula Ac = X I(k) / (S I( A)), where the summation is over the wavelength range of interest, and I (A) is the spectral energy density (i.e. the integration of the product of the wavelength and the intensity over the emission band normalized to the integrated intensity). The centroid wavelength may e.g. be determined at operation conditions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

Figs, la-lc schematically depict some aspects of the invention; and

Fig. 2 show some spectral power distributions.

The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Fig. la schematically depicts embodiments of light generating systems 1000 configured to generate system light 1001 having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm (see also Fig. 2). Especially, relative to a total radiant flux of the system light 1001 in the 380-780 nm wavelength range, 15-40% of the total radiant flux is within the 385-440 nm wavelength range, and 60-85% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-780 nm wavelength range, and wherein the system light 1001 has an R9 value of at maximum 85, and a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85 (see also Fig. 2).

On the left and on the right, examples are shown wherein the light generating system 1000 comprises a light generating device 100 comprising a luminescent material 210. Hence, the light generating system 1000 may comprise a first luminescent material 210, wherein at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range is provided by first luminescent material light 211 of the first luminescent material 210. In embodiments, the light generating system 1000 may comprises one or more of (i) a blue solid state light source as pump light source for the first luminescent material 210, and (ii) a violet solid state light source configured to provide at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range.

The light generating system 1000 may further comprise a control system 300 configure to control one or more optical properties of the system light 1001 selected from the group of (i) radiant flux, (ii) correlated color temperature, and (iii) total radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range.

As schematically depicted in the middle and on the right, the light generating system 1000 may comprise a plurality of light generating devices 100 configured to provide the system light 1001. The light generating devices 100 are indicated with references 110,120,130,140, in these embodiments, and their device light 101 is indicated with references 111,121,131,141, respectively. On the right, the second light generating devices 120 comprises a first luminescent material 210. Hence, the device light 121 may comprise luminescent material light 211. The control system 300 may be configured to control the plurality of light generating devices 100.

Fig. lb schematically depicts a lighting device 1200 selected from the group of a lamp and a luminaire comprising the light generating system 1000 as defined herein.

Fig. 1c schematically depicts a system 2000 configured to illuminate a space 1300 (in an agricultural environment) for an animal, wherein the system 2000 comprises (a) the space 1300 for the animal and (b) the light generating system 1000 or the lighting device 1200 as described herein, wherein the light generating system 1000 is configured to illuminate the space 1300. The space 1300 may e.g. be a shed. The animals may e.g. be poultry, such as chicken. In embodiments, the space 1300 may (thus) be configured to host a plurality of birds. The light generating system 1000 may comprise a plurality of light generating devices 100 for providing the system light 100. The plurality of light generating devices 100 may be spaced apart on an elongated axis A. Further, the system 2000 may comprise a support line 1400 configured for supporting and/or electrically connecting the plurality of light generating devices 100. In embodiments, the support line may be selected from a (i) a feed supply line, (ii) a shocker wire, and (iii) a water supply line. The system 2000 (or the light generating system 1000) may further comprise a sensor 310. The sensor 310 may be configured to sense one or more of variable physical conditions of the space and animal behavior and generate a corresponding sensor signal, and wherein the control system 300 may be configured to control the system light 1001 in dependence of the sensor signal. Referring to Fig. 2, a plurality (here 10 examples indicated A- J) of spectral power distributions are depicted from the following light generating devices:

In the first rows of each table, the contributions in the respective wavelength ranges relative to the total radiant flux in the 385-780 nm wavelength range are provided, followed by rows including the CRI, R9, and CCT, and finally two rows with the CIE x and y coordinates, respectively. There may essentially be no differences in these values when the 380-780 nm range would have been taken.

Hence, in embodiments, relative to a total radiant flux of the system light 1001 in the 380-780 nm wavelength range: (i) selected from the range of 15-35% of the total radiant flux is within the 380-440 nm wavelength range; (ii) selected from the range of 5- 25% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-480 nm wavelength range; (iii) selected from the range of 25-55% of the total radiant flux is within the 480-580 nm wavelength range; and (iv) selected from the range of 10-45% of the total radiant flux is within the 580-780 nm wavelength range.

The term “plurality” refers to two or more. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” herein, and similar terms, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially or essentially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or the term “essentially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. The term “comprise” also includes embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of’. The term “and/or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and/or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and/or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term "comprising" may in an embodiment refer to "consisting of but may in another embodiment also refer to "containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species". Use of the verb "to comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

The devices, apparatus, or systems may herein amongst others be described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, or an apparatus claim, or a system claim, enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. In yet a further aspect, the invention (thus) provides a software product, which, when running on a computer is capable of bringing about (one or more embodiments of) the method as described herein.

The invention also provides a control system that may control the device, apparatus, or system, or that may execute the herein described method or process. Yet further, the invention also provides a computer program product, when running on a computer which is functionally coupled to or comprised by the device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system.

The invention further applies to a device, apparatus, or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.

The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Further, the person skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that also more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A light generating system (1000) configured to generate system light (1001) having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm, wherein relative to a total radiant flux of the system light (1001) in the 380-780 nm wavelength range: selected from the range of 15-35% of the total radiant flux is within the 380- 440 nm wavelength range; selected from the range of 5-25% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-480 nm wavelength range; selected from the range of 25-55% of the total radiant flux is within the 480- 580 nm wavelength range; and selected from the range of 10-45% of the total radiant flux is within the 580- 780 nm wavelength range; wherein the spectral power distribution within the 385-440 nm wavelength range comprises a spectral maximum within the 395-435 nm wavelength range; and wherein the system light (1001) has an R9 value of at maximum 85, and a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85.

2. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the system light (1001) has a color rendering index selected from the range of at maximum 76 and an R9 value of at maximum 25.

3. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spectral power distribution within the 385-440 nm wavelength range comprises a spectral maximum within the 400-425 nm wavelength range.

4. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a first luminescent material (210), wherein at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range is provided by first luminescent material light (211) of the first luminescent material (210); and wherein the light generating system (1000) comprises one or more of (i) a blue solid state light source as pump light source for the first luminescent material (210), and (ii) a violet solid state light source configured to provide at least part of the radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range.

5. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured to generate system light (1001) having a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity in the violet, blue, green, and yellow wavelength ranges; wherein a correlated color temperature is selected from the range of 2000-13000 K.

6. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein relative to a total radiant flux of the system light (1001) in the 200-780 nm wavelength range, at maximum 2% of the total radiant flux is within the 200-380 nm wavelength range.

7. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control system (300) configure to control one or more optical properties of the system light (1001) selected from the group of (i) radiant flux, (ii) correlated color temperature, and (iii) total radiant flux within the 385-440 nm wavelength range.

8. The light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of light generating devices (100) configured to provide the system light (1001).

9. The light generating system (1000) according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of light generating devices (100) have a different spectral power distribution, and wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the spectral power distribution of the system light (1001).

10. A lighting device (1200) selected from the group of a lamp (1) and a luminaire (2) comprising the light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. A system (2000) configured to illuminate a space (1300) for an animal, wherein the system (2000) comprises (a) the space (1300) for the animal and (b) the light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-9 or the lighting device (1200) according to claim 10, wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured to illuminate the space (1300).

12. The system (2000) according to claim 11, wherein the space (1300) is configured to host a plurality of birds; wherein the light generating system (1000) comprises a plurality of light generating devices (100) for providing the system light (100); wherein the plurality of light generating devices (100) are spaced apart on an elongated axis (A).

13. The system (2000) according to any one of the preceding claims 11-12, further comprising a sensor (310), wherein the sensor (310) is configured to sense one or more of variable physical conditions of the space and animal behavior and generate a corresponding sensor signal, and wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the system light (1001) in dependence of the sensor signal.

14. The system (2000) according to claim 13, wherein the sensor (310) comprises one or more of a camera, a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor.

15. A method for illuminating a space (1300) for birds with system light (1001), wherein the system light (1001) has a spectral power distribution with spectral intensity at a plurality of wavelengths within the wavelength range of 380-780 nm, wherein relative to a total radiant flux of the system light (1001) in the 380-780 nm wavelength range: selected from the range of 15-35% of the total radiant flux is within the 380- 440 nm wavelength range; selected from the range of 5-25% of the total radiant flux is within the 440-480 nm wavelength range; selected from the range of 25-55% of the total radiant flux is within the 480- 580 nm wavelength range; and selected from the range of 10-45% of the total radiant flux is within the 580- 780 nm wavelength; wherein the system light (1001) has an R9 value of at maximum 85, and a color rendering index selected from the range of 55-85, wherein the method comprises providing such system light (1001) to such space (1300).