A device is disclosed that uses a plurality of light sources. The light sources may be light emitting diodes (LEDs). The light sources are arranged and mounted to a deformable flexible substrate. The light sources are arranged and mounted to the substrate as to emit their radiation perpendicular to the substrate. The substrate is flexed in a concave or convex manner by motor, magnetic field or other mechanical means. The light sources may emit their radiation perpendicular to the substrate, or the may diverge or converge their radiation away from the substrate. Perforations in the substrate provide cooling to the light sources by convection or forced air. A threaded holder may be screwed onto threads on a case in order to bend the flexible substrate to change the direction of light from the light sources mounted to the flexible substrate.
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6. An apparatus comprising:
a flexible substrate to which a plurality of light sources are fixed;
a flexible substrate housing in which the flexible substrate is located;
wherein the flexible substrate is comprised of a peripheral region and a center region;
and further comprising a flexing device for flexing the substrate by applying pressure to the center region of the flexible substrate to cause the flexible substrate to deform;
wherein in a first state when the flexible substrate is not deformed by the flexing device each of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a first direction;
wherein in a second state when the flexible substrate has been deformed by the flexing device at least one of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a second direction which differs from the first direction;
and wherein the flexible substrate is comprised of a center electrical terminal located at the center region of the flexible substrate and wherein the flexing device makes electrical contact with the center electrical terminal of the flexible substrate when the flexing device applies pressure to the center region of the flexible substrate.
1. An apparatus comprising:
a flexible substrate to which a plurality of light sources are fixed;
a flexible substrate housing in which the flexible substrate is located;
wherein the flexible substrate is comprised of a peripheral region and a center region;
and further comprising a flexing device for flexing the flexible substrate by applying pressure to the center region of the flexible substrate to cause the flexible substrate to deform;
and wherein in a first state when the flexible substrate is not deformed by the flexing device, each of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a first direction;
and wherein in a second state when the flexible substrate has been deformed by the flexing device, at least one of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a second direction which differs from the first direction; and
wherein the flexible substrate housing is comprised of a removable holder and a case;
wherein the flexing device is comprised of the removable holder and the case;
and wherein the removable holder can be connected onto the case; and
and wherein the connecting of the removable holder onto the case can cause the flexible substrate to deform.
10. An apparatus comprising:
a flexible substrate to which a plurality of light sources are fixed;
a flexible substrate housing in which the flexible substrate is located;
wherein the flexible substrate is comprised of a peripheral region and a center region;
and further comprising a flexing device for flexing the substrate by applying pressure to the center region of the flexible substrate to cause the flexible substrate to deform;
wherein the flexible substrate housing applies pressure to the peripheral region of the flexible substrate in a substantially opposite direction to the pressure being applied to the center region and while pressure is being applied to the center region of the flexible substrate;
and wherein in a first state when the flexible substrate is not deformed by the flexing device each of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a first direction;
and wherein in a second state when the flexible substrate has been bent by the flexing device at least one of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a second direction which differs from the first direction; and
wherein the flexing device is comprised of a battery having a first terminal, wherein the first terminal of the battery applies pressure to the center region of the flexible substrate to cause the flexible substrate to deform.
12. An apparatus comprising:
a flexible substrate to which a plurality of light sources are fixed;
a flexible substrate housing in which the flexible substrate is located;
wherein the flexible substrate is comprised of a first region and a second region;
and further comprising a flexing device for flexing the substrate by applying pressure in a first direction to the second region of the flexible substrate and simultaneously applying pressure in a second direction to the first region of the flexible substrate, wherein the first direction is substantially opposite the second direction, to cause the flexible substrate to deform;
and wherein in a first state when the flexible substrate is not deformed by the flexing device each of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a third direction;
and wherein in a second state when the flexible substrate has been deformed by the flexing device at least one of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a fourth direction which differs from the third direction; and
wherein the flexible substrate housing is comprised of a removable holder and a case;
wherein the flexing device is comprised of the removable holder and the case;
and wherein the removable holder can be connected to the case; and
and wherein the connecting of the removable holder onto the case can cause the flexible substrate to deform.
0. 78. An apparatus comprising:
a lamp housing;
a substrate disposed in the housing, the substrate having a plurality of individually controllable circuits; and
first, second, third, fourth, and fifth light emitting diodes of a plurality of light emitting diodes respectively fixed to the circuits of the substrate for directing light from the lamp housing;
a base housing;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of the projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value;
wherein the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth light emitting diodes have respectively independently variable light intensities;
wherein the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth light emitting diodes emit light of first, second, third, fourth, and fifth wavelengths, respectively; and
wherein the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth wavelengths produce respectively different colors.
0. 27. A lighting apparatus comprising:
a substrate;
a plurality of light emitting diodes;
a lamp driver circuit;
a communications component;
a first housing in which the substrate is located;
wherein the substrate has a first circuit and a second circuit;
wherein the lamp driver circuit is electrically connected to the first circuit and the second circuit;
wherein a first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of the light emitted by the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein a second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of the light emitted by the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a first color and the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a second color different from the first color;
wherein the second color is generated by white light emitting diodes; and
wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying either the intensity of the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes or the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes to change the color temperature of the light emitted from the plurality of light emitting diodes; and
further comprising a variable filter.
11. An apparatus comprising:
a flexible substrate to which a plurality of light sources are fixed;
a flexible substrate housing in which the flexible substrate is located;
wherein the flexible substrate is comprised of a peripheral region and a center region;
and further comprising a flexing device for flexing the substrate by applying pressure to the center region of the flexible substrate to cause the flexible substrate to deform;
and wherein in a first state when the flexible substrate is not deformed by the flexing device, each of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a first direction;
and wherein in a second state when the flexible substrate has been bent by the flexing device at least one of the plurality of light sources emits light which is concentrated in a second direction which differs from the first direction;
wherein each light source on the flexible substrate has a first terminal and a second terminal, each first and second terminal is electrically connected to its own first and second conductive material on the flexible substrate, respectively;
wherein the first conductive materials for all the light sources are electrically connected to a center conductive material on the flexible substrate;
wherein the second conductive materials for all the light sources are electrically connected to a peripheral conductive material on the flexible substrate;
and wherein by applying a positive terminal of a signal source to the center conductive material and by applying a negative terminal of the signal source to the peripheral conductive material, the plurality of light sources can be turned on.
0. 74. A lighting device for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a first housing;
the first housing comprising a substrate and a plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the substrate has a first circuit and a second circuit;
wherein a first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein a second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a first color and the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a second color different from the first color;
wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes have respective directions of light energy emission;
a second housing; and
a power applying component disposed in the second housing;
wherein the power applying component is electrically coupled to the light emitting diodes for applying power to the light emitting diodes; and
wherein the first housing is rotationally mounted to the second housing for revolving the first housing relative to the second housing to vary the direction of light energy emission relative to the second housing;
and the substrate comprising a flexible substrate, wherein:
the first housing comprises a threaded holder;
the light emitting diodes are mounted on the flexible substrate;
the flexible substrate is mounted in the threaded holder;
the second housing comprises a threaded case;
the power applying component comprises a battery; and
the threaded holder engages the threaded case and is manually rotatable relative to the case for varying the basic directions of light energy emission relative to the case by deformation of the flexible substrate.
0. 73. A lighting device for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a lamp housing;
the lamp housing comprising a substrate and a plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the substrate has a first circuit and a second circuit;
wherein a first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein a second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a first color and the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a second color different from the first color;
wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes have respective directions of light energy emission;
a base housing;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of the projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value; and
a power applying component disposed in the base housing;
wherein the power applying component is electrically coupled to the light emitting diodes for applying power to the light emitting diodes; and
wherein the lamp housing is rotationally mounted to the base housing for revolving the lamp housing relative to the base housing to vary the direction of light energy emission relative to the base housing.
0. 13. A lighting apparatus comprising:
a substrate;
a plurality of light emitting diodes;
a lamp driver circuit;
a communications component;
a base housing;
a lamp housing in which the substrate is located;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of a projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value;
wherein the substrate has a first circuit and a second circuit;
wherein the lamp driver circuit is electrically connected to the first circuit and the second circuit;
wherein a first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of the light emitted by the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein a second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of the light emitted by the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a first color and the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a second color different from the first color;
wherein the second color is generated by white light emitting diodes; and
wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying either the intensity of the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes or the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes to change the color temperature of the light emitted from the plurality of light emitting diodes.
0. 65. A lighting apparatus for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a substrate;
first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes, each of which is fixed to the substrate;
a first housing in which the substrate is located;
a communications component;
wherein each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emit light having an intensity;
wherein the substrate has first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth circuits;
wherein the first light emitting diode is connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first light emitting diode;
wherein the second light emitting diode is connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second light emitting diode;
wherein the third light emitting diode is connected to the third circuit and the third circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the third light emitting diode;
wherein the fourth light emitting diode is connected to the fourth circuit and the fourth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fourth light emitting diode;
wherein the fifth light emitting diode is connected to the fifth circuit and the fifth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fifth light emitting diode;
wherein the sixth light emitting diode is connected to the sixth circuit and the sixth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the sixth light emitting diode;
wherein each of the light intensities of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and six light emitting diodes can be varied independently of each of the other light intensities of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth light emitting diodes;
and wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes all emit light of a first color; and
wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying each of the light intensities of each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes; and
further comprising a variable filter.
0. 33. A lighting apparatus for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a substrate;
a base housing;
a lamp housing, in which the substrate is located;
a plurality of light emitting diodes comprised of a first portion and a second portion each of the first and the second portion emitting light having an intensity;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of a projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value;
a variable filter;
a lamp driver;
a communications component;
wherein the substrate has a first circuit and a second circuit;
wherein the lamp driver is electrically connected to the first circuit and the second circuit;
wherein the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of the light emitted by the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes are connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of the light emitted by the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes;
wherein the first portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a first color and the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes emits light of a second color different from the first color;
wherein the light emitted from the first portion and the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes is emitted through the variable filter; and
wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying control information to the variable filter.
0. 44. A lighting apparatus for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a substrate;
a communications component;
first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes each of which is fixed to the substrate;
a first housing wherein the substrate is located;
wherein each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emits light having an intensity;
wherein the substrate has first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth circuits;
wherein the first light emitting diode is connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first light emitting diode;
wherein the second light emitting diode is connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second light emitting diode;
wherein the third light emitting diode is connected to the third circuit and the third circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the third light emitting diode;
wherein the fourth light emitting diode is connected to the fourth circuit and the fourth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fourth light emitting diode;
wherein the fifth light emitting diode is connected to the fifth circuit and the fifth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fifth light emitting diode;
wherein the sixth light emitting diode is connected to the sixth circuit and the sixth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the sixth light emitting diode;
wherein each of the intensities of light of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and six light emitting diodes can be varied independently of each of the other intensities of light of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth light emitting diodes;
wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emit light of first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth wavelengths, respectively;
and wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying each of the intensities of light of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes;
and further comprising a variable filter.
0. 79. A lighting apparatus for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a substrate;
a lamp housing in which the substrate is located;
a base housing:
a yoke;
a first, a second and a third light emitting diode of a plurality of light emitting diodes, each of which is fixed to the substrate;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of the projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value;
a communications component;
wherein each of the first, second and third light emitting diodes emits light having an intensity;
wherein the substrate has first, second, and third circuits;
wherein the first light emitting diode is connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first light emitting diode;
wherein the second light emitting diode is connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second light emitting diode;
wherein the third light emitting diode is connected to the third circuit and the third circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the third light emitting diode;
wherein each of the light intensities of the first, second and third light emitting diodes can be varied independently of each of the other light intensities of the first, second, and third light emitting diodes;
wherein the first light emitting diode emits light of a first color;
wherein the second light emitting diode all emits light of a second color;
wherein the third light emitting diode emits light of a third color;
wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying either any of the light intensities of the first, second, and third light emitting diodes;
and wherein the lamp housing can be positioned in relation to the base housing by remote control.
0. 50. A lighting apparatus for projecting light onto a projection surface comprising:
a substrate;
first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes of a plurality of light emitting diodes, each of which is fixed to the substrate;
a lamp housing in which the substrate is located;
a base housing;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of the projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value;
a communications component;
wherein each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emit light having an intensity;
wherein the substrate has first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth circuits;
wherein the first light emitting diode is connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first light emitting diode;
wherein the second light emitting diode is connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second light emitting diode;
wherein the third light emitting diode is connected to the third circuit and the third circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the third light emitting diode;
wherein the fourth light emitting diode is connected to the fourth circuit and the fourth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fourth light emitting diode;
wherein the fifth light emitting diode is connected to the fifth circuit and the fifth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fifth light emitting diode;
wherein the sixth light emitting diode is connected to the sixth circuit and the sixth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the sixth light emitting diode;
wherein each of the light intensities of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and six light emitting diodes can be varied independently of each of the other light intensities of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth light emitting diodes;
and wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes all emit light of a first color; and
wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying each of the light intensities of each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes.
0. 35. A lighting apparatus for projecting light onto a surface comprising:
a substrate;
a communications component;
first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes of a plurality of light emitting diodes each of which is fixed to the substrate;
a lamp housing wherein the substrate is located;
a base housing;
means for remote positioning of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing so that an actual azimuth of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined azimuth value and an actual elevation of the lamp housing with respect to the base housing is set to a predetermined elevation value, and so that light from the plurality of light emitting diodes is projected onto a predetermined location of a projection surface as determined by the actual azimuth and the actual elevation, and in response to one or more control signals which specify the predetermined azimuth value and the predetermined elevation value;
wherein each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emits light having an intensity;
wherein the substrate has first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth circuits;
wherein the first light emitting diode is connected to the first circuit and the first circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the first light emitting diode;
wherein the second light emitting diode is connected to the second circuit and the second circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the second light emitting diode;
wherein the third light emitting diode is connected to the third circuit and the third circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the third light emitting diode;
wherein the fourth light emitting diode is connected to the fourth circuit and the fourth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fourth light emitting diode;
wherein the fifth light emitting diode is connected to the fifth circuit and the fifth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the fifth light emitting diode;
wherein the sixth light emitting diode is connected to the sixth circuit and the sixth circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the sixth light emitting diode;
wherein each of the intensities of light of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and six light emitting diodes can be varied independently of each of the other intensities of light of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth light emitting diodes;
wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emit light of first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth wavelengths, respectively;
and wherein the communications component can receive a control command for varying each of the intensities of light of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes.
2. The apparatus of
the removable holder can be connected to the case by variably tightening the removable holder to the case to thereby apply a variable amount of pressure to the flexible substrate and a corresponding variable amount of deformation of the flexible substrate.
3. The apparatus of
the removable holder when tightened causes the center region of the flexible substrate to be forced upwards by a surface of a battery.
4. The apparatus of
the removable holder when screwed tightly causes the center region of the flexible substrate to be forced upwards by a terminal of a battery.
5. The apparatus of
the removable holder is in the form of a cover and the case is in the form of a flashlight case.
7. The apparatus of
each light source on the flexible substrate has a first terminal and a second terminal,
and each first and second terminal is electrically connected to its own first and second conductive material on the flexible substrate, respectively;
wherein the first conductive materials for all the light sources are electrically connected to a center conductive material on the flexible substrate;
wherein the second conductive materials for all the light sources are electrically connected to a peripheral conductive material on the flexible substrate;
and wherein by applying a positive terminal of a signal source to the center conductive material and by applying a negative terminal of the signal source to the peripheral conductive material, the plurality of light sources can be turned on.
8. The apparatus of
each light source on the flexible substrate has a first terminal and a second terminal,
and each first and second terminal is electrically connected to its own first and second conductive material on the flexible substrate, respectively;
wherein the first conductive materials for all the light sources are electrically connected to a center conductive material on the flexible substrate;
wherein the second conductive materials for all the light sources are electrically connected to its own separate distinct peripheral conductive material on the flexible substrate;
and wherein by applying a positive terminal of a signal source to the center conductive material and by applying a negative terminal of the signal source to the appropriate peripheral conductive material, a particular light source can be turned on.
0. 14. The lighting apparatus of claim 13 wherein the first color is generated by yellow light emitting diodes.
0. 15. The lighting apparatus of claim 13 wherein the first color is generated by amber light emitting diodes.
0. 16. The lighting apparatus of claim 13 wherein the first color is generated by any of red, blue or green light emitting diodes.
0. 17. The lighting apparatus of claim 14 wherein varying the light intensity emitted by the first portion or the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes changes the color temperature of the light projected on to a surface.
0. 18. The lighting apparatus of claim 15 wherein varying the light intensity emitted by the first portion or the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes changes the color temperature of the light protected on to a surface.
0. 19. The lighting apparatus of claim 16 wherein varying the light intensity emitted by the first portion or the second portion of the plurality of light emitting diodes changes the color temperature of the light projected on to a surface.
0. 20. The lighting apparatus of claim 13 wherein an electrical component is located within the base housing.
0. 21. The lighting apparatus of claim 20 wherein the electrical component is a processor.
0. 22. The lighting apparatus of claim 20 further comprising wherein the lamp housing can pan and tilt in relation to the base housing by a motor.
0. 23. The lighting apparatus of claim 20 wherein a position of the lamp housing relative to the base housing is caused by remote control.
0. 24. The lighting apparatus claim 20 further comprising a communications line and the communications line can provide a control signal.
0. 25. The lighting apparatus of claim 13 further comprising ventilation holes; and wherein the ventilation holes are located in the substrate in proximity to any of the light emitting diodes of the first or second portions.
0. 26. The lighting apparatus of claim 25 further comprising a fan; and wherein the fan forces air through the ventilation holes.
0. 28. The lighting apparatus of claim 27 wherein the variable filter is a liquid crystal emulsion filter.
0. 29. The lighting apparatus of claim 28 wherein the variable filter is mounted to the first housing wherein each of the light emitting diodes of the first and second portions emit light in a direction passing through the filter.
0. 30. The lighting apparatus of claim 29 wherein a control command can vary the optical state of the filter.
0. 31. The lighting apparatus of claim 13 wherein the substrate is a flexible substrate.
0. 32. The lighting apparatus of claim 31 wherein the substrate is a curved substrate.
0. 34. The lighting apparatus of claim 33 wherein the variable filter is a liquid crystal filter.
0. 36. The lighting apparatus of claim 35 wherein
the first light emitting diode emits light of a first color;
the second light emitting diode emits light of a second color;
the third light emitting diode emits light of a third color; and
the fourth light emitting diode emits light of a fourth color;
the fifth light emitting diode emits light of a fifth color;
the sixth light emitting diode emits light of a sixth color;
and wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth colors are different.
0. 37. The lighting apparatus of claim 35 wherein an electrical component is located within the base housing.
0. 38. The lighting apparatus of claim 37 wherein the electrical component is a battery.
0. 39. The lighting apparatus of claim 37 wherein the lamp housing can pan and tilt in relation to the base housing by a motor.
0. 40. The lighting apparatus of claim 39 wherein the rotation of the lamp housing relative to the base housing is caused by remote control.
0. 41. The lighting apparatus claim 40 wherein a communications line is connected to the base housing.
0. 42. The lighting apparatus of claim 35 further comprising ventilation holes and the ventilation holes are located in the substrate in proximity to any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth light emitting diodes.
0. 43. The lighting apparatus of claim 42 further comprising a fan; wherein the fan forces air through the ventilation holes.
0. 45. The lighting apparatus of claim 44 wherein the variable filter is a liquid crystal emulsion filter.
0. 46. The lighting apparatus of claim 44 wherein the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth light emitting diodes emit light in a direction passing through the filter.
0. 47. The lighting apparatus of claim 44 further including a communications line and wherein the variable filter can be varied by communications received over the communications line.
0. 48. The lighting apparatus of claim 35 wherein the substrate is a flexible substrate.
0. 49. The lighting apparatus of claim 35 wherein the substrate is a curved substrate.
0. 51. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 further comprising
a seventh light emitting diode which emits light having an intensity;
wherein the substrate has a seventh circuit;
wherein the seventh light emitting diode is connected to the seventh circuit;
wherein the seventh circuit can vary the intensity of light emitted by the seventh light emitting diode;
and wherein the seventh light emitting diode emits light of a second color different than the first color.
0. 52. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 wherein the first color is white.
0. 53. The lighting apparatus of claim 51 wherein the second color is amber.
0. 54. The lighting apparatus of claim 51 wherein the second color is yellow.
0. 55. The lighting apparatus of claim 51 wherein the second color is red.
0. 56. The lighting apparatus of claim 51 wherein the intensity of the first color is varied to change the color temperature of the light projected onto the projection surface by the lighting apparatus.
0. 57. The lighting apparatus of claim 51 wherein the intensity of the second color is varied to change the color temperature of the light projected onto the projection surface by the lighting apparatus.
0. 58. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 wherein an electrical component is located within the base housing.
0. 59. The lighting apparatus of claim 58 wherein the electrical component is a battery.
0. 60. The lighting apparatus of claim 58 wherein the lamp housing can pan and tilt in relation to the base housing by a motor.
0. 61. The lighting apparatus of claim 60 wherein the rotation of the lamp housing relative to the base housing is caused by remote control.
0. 62. The lighting apparatus of claim 61 wherein a communications line is connected to the base housing.
0. 63. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 further comprising ventilation holes and the ventilation holes are located in the substrate in proximity to any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth light emitting diodes.
0. 64. The lighting apparatus of claim 63 further comprising a fan; and wherein the fan forces air through the ventilation holes.
0. 66. The lighting apparatus of claim 65 wherein the variable filter is a liquid crystal emulsion filter.
0. 67. The lighting apparatus of claim 65 wherein any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth light emitting diodes emit light in a direction passing through the filter.
0. 68. The lighting apparatus of claim 65 further including a communications line and wherein the variable filter can be varied by communications received over the communications line.
0. 69. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 wherein the substrate is a flexible substrate.
0. 70. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 wherein the substrate is a curved substrate.
0. 71. The lighting apparatus of claim 50 wherein the first color is ultraviolet.
0. 72. The lighting apparatus of claim 51 wherein the second color is ultraviolet.
0. 75. The lighting device of claim 73 further comprising
a flexible substrate and an actuator coupled to the flexible substrate, wherein:
the light emitting diodes are mounted on the flexible substrate;
the flexible substrate is mounted in the lamp housing;
the base housing comprises an electronics housing;
the power applying component comprises an internal power supply; and
the actuator is controllable for varying the basic directions of light energy emission relative to the electronics housing by deformation of the flexible substrate.
0. 76. The lighting device of claim 73 further comprising
a yoke, wherein the yoke is mounted for rotation to the lamp housing;
wherein the yoke is mounted for rotation to the base housing;
wherein the lamp housing is rotated in relation to the base housing by a motor;
wherein the base housing comprises an electronics housing; and
the power applying component comprises an internal power supply.
0. 77. The lighting device of claim 76 further comprising a communications line and the communications line is connected to the base housing.
0. 80. The lighting apparatus of claim 79 wherein the first color is green, the second color is red and the third color is blue.
0. 81. The lighting apparatus of claim 79 wherein the remote control of the lamp housing in relation to the base housing is obtained by a motor.
0. 82. The lighting apparatus of claim 79 wherein at least one of the first, second or third colors is a white color.
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This invention relates to improved methods and apparatus for using a plurality of light sources to illuminate an area or aperture. The invention discloses improvements to devices using a plurality of light sources where the plurality of light sources are multiple wavelengths and may be light emitting diodes (also called in this application “LEDs”). The inventions contained within the text are directed at hand held flashlights, theatrical lighting, and may have other applications. Theatrical lighting is used in concerts, special events, nightclubs, television studios, restaurants and theme parks.
When using a lighting device to illuminate an area it is often found necessary to change the profile of the projected light to match the object to be illuminated. When using a conventional hand held flashlight for example often the flashlight is equipped with a means for changing the profile of the emitted light from a spot to a wash. When using a conventional reflector and a single light source the reflector is often moved in relative position to the source to accomplish changing the profile. U.S. Pat. No. 4,987,523 to Lindabury discloses an illumination device that moves the lamp in relative position to the reflector.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,855,884 to Richardson discloses a variable beamwidth stage light with a single light source, relying on an axially movable reflector for changes in beamwidth. The reflector is constructed of a plurality of reflective leaves that are moved by a motor to change the focal length of the reflector. When working with a plurality of light sources, various methods have been disclosed that enable the multiple light sources to be converged or diverged. U.S. Pat. No. 4,729,070 to Chiu discloses an adjustable ring for concentrating multiple beams of light. Chiu discloses an apparatus for changing the angle of incidence of a plurality of light sources arranged in a ring. A threaded holder surrounds the ring of light sources while a cam mechanism adjusts the angle of the light sources that is operated by turning the threaded holder. U.S. Pat. No. 5,752,766 to Bailey et al. discloses a multi-color focusable LED stage light. A linear actuator is operable to move a base member containing an array of LEDs which in turn cause the LED array to change the direction of the optical axes of a substantial number of LEDs. By deforming the base member 20 in Bailey, the LEDs can be converged or diverged on an area to be illuminated.
The Bailey patent does not discuss the issues of thermal management. High intensity light emitting diodes (LEDs) have a critical upper temperature operating limit. This can easily be exceeded when the LEDs are arranged in-groups as in the Bailey patent and the ambient air temperature rises.
Multiparameter lights of the prior art utilize a single light source with motors to vary the focus, color, position and intensity. U.S. Pat. No. 3,845,351 to Ballmoos et al. titled: METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR THE ADJUSTMENT OF A PLURALITY OF FLOODLIGHTS discloses a number of floodlights especially for the illumination of a stage or studio, in which the parameters azimuth, elevation, brightness, focus and color of a bundle of light rays of each floodlight are adjusted to an optimum value for any one of a plurality of lighting effects.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,392,187 to Bornhorst titled: Computer controlled lighting system having automatically variable position, color, intensity and beam divergence illustrates another example of the prior art. Each of the instruments houses a central lamp and an optical system designed to collimate the light from the lamp and vary the parameters of the light by inserting motor driven optical components into the light by remote control.
Multiparameter lights are generally controlled by a central control system via a serial data communications system. An operator operating the central control system may control each multiparameter light separately to adjust the parameters. Each multiparameter light may be provided with a communications address so that each multiparameter light may be addressed separately by an operator operating the control system
Multiparameter lights of the prior art are depicted in the High End Systems Product Line 1997 brochure.
The present invention in one embodiment provides an inexpensive method of converging and diverging a plurality of light sources by mounting the light sources to a flexible substrate that may be deformed to change the angular relationship of the plurality of light sources. Mechanical systems for deforming the base member or substrate are disclosed.
In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the flexible substrate is laminated with a conductive material to supply electrical current to a plurality of light emitting diodes. The light emitting diodes are arranged symmetrically around the substrate to provide uniform illumination. A battery cell supplying electrical current is engaged with the flexible substrate as to provide electrical contact and to provide a variable force on the substrate. The variable force on the flexible substrate flexes the substrate and in turn changes the direction of the concentration or rays of light from the light sources, (which may be light emitting diodes), changing the angle of incidence of the light emitted by the light sources. A threaded member may be used to adjust the force on the flexible substrate applied by the battery cell.
In another embodiment of the present invention an electromagnetic force is applied to the flexible substrate and used to deform the substrate. In yet another embodiment of the invention a motor and lead screw is used to selectively deform the substrate. In another embodiment, a cam is used.
In another embodiment of the present invention a light is constructed with multiple light sources that include multiple wavelengths. The light sources' intensity or enabling may be individually controlled by wavelength groups or each individual LED may be controlled. Furthermore subgroups of the same wavelength or subgroups of multiple wavelengths may be individually enabled or there intensity controlled. The plurality of light sources may consist of light sources that emit wavelengths for red, green and blue light. The light utilizing the multiple light sources may use the red, green and blue wavelengths in a system of additive color mixing. U.S. Pat. No. 5,752,766 to Bailey et al., is incorporated by reference herein and specifies a system of additive color mixing. The multiple light sources may also contain additional wavelength LEDs such as amber or yellow LEDs. Also broad-spectrum visible white light emitting diodes such as those manufactured by Nichia Chemical Corporation of Japan may be included. A broad spectrum white light source may be added to the plurality of light sources to aid in the overall output of white light or to be mixed into variations of the colored light sources to produce further variations of pastel colors that would not be achievable by using a conventional additive Red, Green and Blue color mixing system.
The term “white light LED” refers to a light emitting diode that provides a spectrum that is seen by the human eye for all purposes as white.
In yet another embodiment a substrate is mounted with a plurality of light sources. One of the important design restraints found while designing lighting instruments is the removal of heat generated by the light source. High intensity light emitting diodes (LEDs) have a critical upper temperature operating limit. This can easily be exceeded when the LEDs are arranged in-groups and the ambient air temperature rises. In one embodiment of the present invention this problem is solved by the use of ventilation holes placed through the flexible substrate. Ventilation holes are strategically placed in the substrate as to provide airflow either by a forced air system or by convection and to assist in dissipation of unwanted heat that is generated by the light sources and increase the life of the light sources.
In yet another embodiment a multiparameter light is disclosed that utilizes a plurality of remote controlled light sources in addition to remote controlled motors to vary the focus, color, position and intensity of the light emitted by the multiparameter light. Several multiparameter lights each utilizing a plurality of light sources may be remotely controlled by an operator or computer control system.
An improvement over U.S. Pat. No. 5,752,766 includes an additional colored LED such as yellow or amber. Artistic License a United Kingdom company has offered a lighting instrument called the “Colour-Fill” that includes amber LEDs along with the Red, Green and Blue LEDs. This information can be found at “www.artisticlicence.com.”
One improvement to the use of an additional colored LED such as amber or yellow is the use of a continuous spectrum white LED. Although the use of an amber or yellow LED along with the red, blue and green helps provide a wider range of color variation especially in the pastel ranges (or less saturated colors) it does not provide energy in the blue-green range. The addition of one or more white light LEDs help to provide a greater range of pastel colors including those in the blue-green wavelengths.
A light source constructed of a plurality of LEDs may also be constructed primarily of white continuous spectrum LEDs as shown in one embodiment of the present invention. White LEDs like that manufactured by Nichia are constructed of a phosphor that is radiated by short wavelengths similar to the standard fluorescent lamp. The advantage to a light source constructed of a plurality of white continuous spectrum LEDs is that the white light created by the LEDs contains energy throughout the visible spectrum. When creating white light through the use of an additive color system using red, green and blue wavelengths (RGB), the spectral energy adjacent to the red, green and blue wavelengths is usually omitted. An RBG system used to create white light can sometimes be problematic when illuminating objects that absorb or reflect very specific wavelengths of light. Illuminating these type of objects with RGB derived white light often may result in an erroneous perception of color by the viewer as compared to viewing the object under continuous spectrum white light.
The disadvantage to constructing a light source of white continuous spectrum LEDs is that color variations can not be provided. When providing a lighting instrument constructed of a plurality of white LEDs it can be of great advantage to adjust the color temperature of the emitted light. This advantage is similar to the manual selection of prior art fluorescent lamps that are “cool white” or “soft white”. By incorporating at least one additional wavelength light source such as an amber or yellow LED types, the perceived color of the light emitted by the white LEDs can be altered from a “cool” or bluish white to a “soft” or yellowish light. The white continuous spectrum LED and an additional wavelength LED may either be individual LEDs separately packaged and fixed to a substrate or they may be manufactured so that both LEDs are contained within a single housing and the housing is fixed to the substrate. It is known in the prior art to package two narrow band (colored LEDs) in a single package for ease of handling and mounting.
Black light projectors are often used in entertainment along with fluorescent paints that radiate when exposed to specific frequencies of ultraviolet light. Black light projectors emitting ultraviolet light in the frequency range of 350 to 400 nanometers are often constructed of arc lamps in cooperation with an optical black light filter. Another common source of black light projection is the glass tube type black light that is constructed to mount in a standard commercially available fluorescent tube socket.
A unique type of black light projector used for entertainment can be constructed of solid state ultraviolet LED light sources. These ultraviolet light sources emit a very narrow band of ultraviolet light. One such LED is manufactured by Nichia Chemical Industries LTD of Japan. Part number NSHU590 emits ultraviolet light at 370 nanometers. Since the ultraviolet light emitted has a very narrow bandwidth, the emitted energy does not reach into the visible at 400 nanometers. It is best to have a visible wavelength emission indicator to indicate that the ultraviolet LEDs are emitting. An emission indicator can be constructed of one or more visibly emitting blue LEDs. The emission indicator would be mounted on the black light projecting instrument's housing so as to be seen easily by an operator of the light. An example of a visible blue LED would be Nichia part number NSB500S. This blue LED wavelength centers itself around 465 nanometers. Any indicator of emission may be used including other colors of LEDs and other types of light sources. The blue LEDs may have a reduced output as to not attract great attention to the black light projector and risk a distraction during a performance, while still making it visible to theatrical lighting operators.
A black light projector constructed of ultraviolet LEDs has several advantages over the prior art devices. Conventional arc lamps used as the sources for black light projectors require high ignition voltages to “strike” the lamp into operation. These lamps often emit a wide range of energy, incorporating unnecessary wavelengths that are filtered out by optical filters. The unwanted energy is often absorbed by the optical filter and turned into heat.
Since ultraviolet LEDs emit only an ultraviolet spectrum to begin with, less energy is wasted as compared to other prior art light sources that use an optical filtering system. Also LEDs do not require costly high voltage ignition systems such as required by prior art arc lamp systems. To provide additional effects in a theatre setting, the ultraviolet LEDs used to provide a black light effect can be strobed or flashed rapidly without great additional expense as the power supply to the LEDs does not have to incorporate a high voltage ignition system like that required in prior art black light projectors using arc lamps. A system of black light projection can be incorporated into a multi-parameter light that can be controlled remotely and may include other parameters like pan, tilt, strobe and dimming. A multi-parameter black light projector has the advantage of instant light output as the ignition system and warm up period like that required by conventional arc sources is not required. Also it can be easily positioned remotely by pan and tilt mechanisms so the projected light can be directed from one location to another. This is helpful as one light may do the job of several lights that do not have the parameters of pan and tilt. Since the black light projector of the invention does not require a warm-up period and emits light only at the desired ultraviolet frequency, energy is saved and the heat generated at the location of use is reduced.
While transporting or handling the devices, LEDs are much less susceptible to impact damage than arc lamp and filter projectors and much more robust than commercially available glass tube type black lights.
In yet another embodiment of the invention multiple light sources are built into a multi-parameter light having variable parameters. The light sources as a single group or color may have their intensity varied simultaneously. For example, in prior art lighting instruments using an RGB system with a plurality of light sources, the Red wavelength group of light sources would have their intensity varied simultaneously and at the same intensity level. The lighting instrument of the invention would be capable of individually varying the intensity of the light sources of the same wavelength or color in relation to each other. Each individual light source of the same wavelength may be varied in relation to each other or subgroups of the same wavelength may be varied in relation to each other. It is preferred that the light sources are fixed to a flexible substrate or that they are mounted on a curved substrate. In this way the light sources are not emitting light parallel to each other. As the plurality of light sources project light onto a projection surface and each of the light sources intensity is varied in relation to each other, the projected light will vary in intensity across the projection surface. Various methods of controlling the intensity of the individual light sources may be used. One method well known to vary the intensity of LED light sources involves current control of the device. This method could be applied to multiple light source LED lights using multiple wavelengths as described above. The light that is projected on a surface by the plurality of light sources that incorporates control over the individual light source intensities may have a graduated intensity across the projection surface depending on what multiple light sources has their intensity varied.
The present invention in various embodiments also provides for individual dimming of light sources.
The multiple LED light sources may also be flashed as to cause stroboscopic effects. The stroboscopic flash rates may be controlled from a theater remote control system. The stroboscopic flash rate of the multi-parameter light being controlled from a microprocessor that is an integral part of the lighting instrument. Other functions of a multiple light source multi-parameter light may include but are not limited to pan, tilt, dimming, strobe, focus, color adjustment and variable diffusion.
In yet another embodiment of the invention a variable light diffusing filter is included after the light sources. The variable light diffusing filter may be a variable filter such as a liquid crystal emulsion spread between sheets of conductive plastic. These filters are voltage controlled and in one state allows light to pass through a clear window. In another state (controlled by voltage) the light is scattered. When varying the controlling voltage to the liquid crystal filter it is possible to achieve variations in the amount of light being scattered. This is particularly useful as one parameter of a multi-parameter light, as the projected light can be varied in the softness of the edge of the projected light. A filter such as that described above is available form Edmond Scientific of Barrington N.J. and is manufactured by the 3M company.
The multiparameter lights of the invention disclose apparatus and methods for utilizing as the light source a plurality or light sources, in a multiparameter light while enabling the light generated by the plurality of light sources to be varied as to alter the focus, color, position and intensity of the projected light.
The lamp 12 has a terminal 12a which is electrically connected to a terminal 22a of the battery 22. The battery 22 has another terminal 22b which is electrically connected to a terminal 23a of the battery 23. The battery 23 has another terminal 23b which is electrically connected to the spring 26. Spring 26 is electrically connected to conductor 30 which connects to a second terminal 12b of the lamp 12 in order to complete a circuit.
The lamp 12 may be a single light source which in
As the position of the reflector 14 is changed in relationship to the lamp 12, the light rays emitted by the lamp 12 intersect the reflector at different locations. In turn the light rays are either converged or diverged at a fixed location in front of the reflector 14. A current disconnection switch is not shown, however such a switch might typically be attached to conductor 30 or a sliding version of conductor 30.
Lead wires for each of the diodes 112a-f which connect two terminals of each diode to either the terminal 119 or the terminal 115 may be passed through the flexible substrate 112 and soldered to a conductive lamination much in the same way that light emitting diodes are mounted to a conventional through hole circuit board. Each diode has two terminals, one terminal connected by a lead wire to terminal 119 and one terminal connected by a lead wire to terminal 115.
An array of light emitting diodes 112a-f are used. In a preferred embodiment the array of light emitting diodes are symmetrically disposed, i.e. this means that the distance between any two adjacent diodes, D1 shown in
It is possible to design a flexible substrate 112 that is the subject of the invention that may omit the battery contact spring 126 as the downward pressure supplied by the flexible substrate would be enough to supply the contact pressure for the batteries 122 and 123. Arrows 140a-f shown in
A current disconnection switch is not shown but would be connected to conductor 130 or conductor 130 could actually be in two pieces which could be connected to provide current connection and disconnection.
The flexible substrate 212 includes diodes 212a-p shown in
A top section of a contact area 215 is shown at the center of the substrate 212. The contact area 215 would be the same as the contact area 115 of
Terminal 251a is connected to conductive material 253a which is connected to center conductive material 254a which is connected to terminal 215. Each of the LEDs 212a-p have similar electrical connections which allow the LEDs 212a-p to be electrically connected in a completed circuit and substituted for the flexible substrate 112 in
The conductive materials, such as materials 252a and 253a and 219 may be applied to either side of the flexible substrate 212. The LEDs 212a-p may be soldered or affixed to a conductive material that may be on the light emitting side (as in surface mount) or may mount through hole. LEDs are constructed with various mounting methods such as through hole type that consist of solderable leads that are usually soldered through a circuit board (which flexible substrate 212 may be) and surface mount types that are usually soldered to the same side of a circuit board.
The conductive materials (such as materials 252a-254a, and 219) may be applied to both sides of the flexible substrate 212 to aid in more complex circuit designs. In devices using multiple LEDs several discrete circuits of the light sources may be applied to the flexible substrate 212.
The LEDs 2312a-p in
The LEDs may be controlled individually. In this way each LED's intensity (intensity is also meant to refer to on and off and or as well as brightness) could be varied per individual LED. These multiple discrete circuits formed in the conductive material could be used to provide access to different groups of the plurality of light sources. This could be an advantage when providing control access to multi color systems or different intensity levels of each specific color. The multiple circuits can also be used to control specific regions of the plurality of light sources. This is an advantage when controlling the illumination of an area that may require less illumination in one area and more illumination in another.
In
Each LED of the groups of LEDs shown in
An example of the uses of the individual control of the light sources of groups 371-386 might be during a photography shoot. The illumination device containing the multiple light sources with multiple wavelengths that have individual control of the sources of each wavelength is projected upon the set behind a subject. If the photographer or director wishes to provide a look like a setting sun using the invention like that described in
As we move up to the other groups of groups 371, 372, 373, 377, 378, 379, 380, 385 and 386 shown in
The surface 412a of the substrate 412 may be a flat substrate, a deformable substrate or curved surface. It is preferred that the substrate be deformable so the light projected by the LEDs is not parallel to each other or at least a curved substrate. The substrate 412 has mounted thereon primarily white continuous spectrum light sources in groups 471-486. An additional wavelength is also provided as to shift the perceived color temperature of the continuous spectrum white light, i.e. LED 471a. The invention may have individual circuits like that described above in
The use of white light source LEDs is an advantage over a color additive system constructed of red, green, and blue light sources. The white light sources can provide a continuous spectrum of visible white light. This can be an advantage when lighting critical objects of various colors.
The stepper motor device 550 includes a fastener 551, a powernut 552, a motor driven lead screw 553, a hub 554 with a set screw 554a, a stepper motor 555, and motor energizing conductors 556, 557, 558, and 559.
The fastener 551 is connected to the center of the substrate 512. The fastener 551 is connected to the powernut 552. The powernut 552 is shown threaded by the motor driven lead screw 553. The lead screw 553 is shown coming out of the hub 554 which includes the set screw 554a. The setscrew 554a sets the lead screw on top of the motor shaft 555a. The motor shaft 555a comes out of the motor 555. The motor 555 has wound around it motor energizing conductors 556, 557, 558, and 559.
The housing 518 is comprised of left extensions 518a and 518b, left arm 518c, right extensions 518d and 518e, right arm 518f, and right base 518g. The substrate 512 has mounted thereon LEDs (light emitting diodes) 512a-512f. Wires 520 and 521 are used to supply current to and to complete a circuit from the diodes to a power source not shown in
Arrows, such as arrow 527 indicate the general direction of the light energy or where the light energy is concentrated.
The substrate 612 has mounted thereon LEDs 612a-612f. Each emits light concentrated in direction shown by an arrow emanating from it. LED 612a, for example emits light in the direction, or concentrated in the direction of arrow 627.
The housing 618 has extensions 618a, 618b, 618d, 618e, and arms 618c and 618f as well as base 618g.
The electromagnetic device includes a fastener 651, a permanent magnet 652 sandwiched by the pole 652a and two outer magnetic structures 653 and 654, a coil with bobbin 655, and a screw 656 for attaching the permanent magnet structures to the base 618g of the housing 618.
The fastener 651 is connected to the coil with bobbin 655. The two outer magnetic structures 653 and 654 surround the permanent magnet 652 and coil with bobbin 655.
The apparatus 610 in
The flexible substrate is comprised of light sources 712a-f. The housing 718 is comprised of portions 718a-g basically as previously mentioned with reference to
The device 750 is comprised of cam hub 752, a bearing block 751, a shaft 753, a stepper motor 754 and a conductors 755. Conductors 755 are used to energize the motor 754. The bearing block 751 is fixed to the substrate 712. The cam hub 752 is engaged with the bearing block 751 and the cam hub is attached to the stepper motor 754. The conductors 755 may be wound around the stepper motor 754.
Wires 771 and 772 are used to provide current to the light sources 712a-f. Wires 671 and 672 are used to provide current to light sources 612a-f in
The cam hub 752 is non-concentric and the cam hub 752 acts to apply more or less pressure to the deformable substrate 712. As the hub 752 rotates against the surface of the bearing block 751 shown, the pressure of the cam hub 752 against the bearing block 751 changes. In the
Other types of motors might be used instead of the stepper motor 754. For instance a DC servomotor could be used and the substitution for a stepper motor is well know in the art.
The electronics housing 2074 houses electronics components which control a lamp, not shown, inside the lamp housing 2076. The bearing arrangement 2073a connects the yoke 2075 that in turn connects the lamp housing 2076 by use of the additional bearing arrangements 2073b and 2073c. Light is emitted through aperture 2077.
The electronics housing component includes microprocessor 2190 and a lamp power supply 2188. An electrical connection 2189 (which may be a data bus) is shown connecting the microprocessor section 2190 to the lamp power supply 2188 that would allow communication between the microprocessor section 2190 and the power supply 2188 to control the enabling of the lamp 2174. The electronics housing 2171 is connected to the lamp housing 2173 by a bearing arrangement 2172 that is shown simplified for illustrative purposes. Lamp power wire 2177 and fan electrical wires 2194 supply power to the fan 2184 and wires 2177 and 2194 run through the bearing arrangement 2172. The bearing arrangement 2172 allows the housing 2173 to swivel in relation to the electronics housing 2171. Motors (not shown for simplification) are used to remotely swivel the lamp housing 2173 and direct the light emitted by the lamp housing 2173 in relation to the electronic housing 2171. More than one swivel point may be provided to provide panning and tilting of the multiparameter light 2170.
The lamp 2174 has its energy collimated by the light collecting mirror 2175 and the condensing lens 2176. The light energy travels in the direction of the arrow 2183. Optical modifying wheels 2178a through 2178c modifies the light with color filters, stencil patterns, prisms or neutral density filters. The optical modifying wheels are driven by motors 2179a through 2179c. A focusing lens 2180 is shown that has its position remotely changed to vary the focus of the light by motor 2181 and a lead screw system 2182. The light exits as shown by the arrow 2183 through exiting aperture 2193.
A ventilation system is provided with the inlet to the housing 2185 and entering airflow 2186. The fan 2184 pulls the entering air 2186 through the housing 2173 and the air exits in the direction shown by arrows 2187 through the fan 2184. Wire 2191 is a communication connection to microprocessor section 2190 and wires 2192 represent connection to a power source not shown.
The multi-parameter light 880 includes electronic housing 860, yoke 866, bearing arrangement 864, lamp housing 870, and bearing arrangements 868a and 868b. The electronic housing 860 can also be called a “base”. The “base” 860 as simply a base for attachment of the other housing 870 and the electronics or part of the electronics may actually reside outside of the housing 860.
The electronics housing 860 is connected to a yoke 866 by a bearing arrangement 864 shown here simplified for illustrative purposes. The yoke 866 is connected to the lamp housing 870 by additional bearing arrangements 868a and 868b. The bearing arrangements 864, 868a and 868b allow the lamp housing 870 to pan and tilt the light emitted by the lamp housing 870 in relation to the electronics housing 860.
The LEDs on the substrate 1012 are arranged in a particular pattern. A first set of amber spectrum LEDs 1012a are arranged on the periphery of an outermost circle C1 on the substrate 1012. (The circle C1 and other circles doesn't physically appear and is for description purposes). Each pair of adjacent amber LEDs of the first set 1012a along the circle C1 are separated by the same distance. “Adjacent ” LEDs with reference to this figure does not include LEDs adjacent across the circle C1 but only adjacent along the circle C1.
A first set of white continuous spectrum LEDs 1012b are arranged on the periphery of a circle C2 (again for descriptive purposes) on the substrate 1012. The circle C2 is smaller than the circle C1 and concentric with the circle C1. Each pair of adjacent white LEDs of the first set 1012b along the circle C2 are separated by the same distance D12.
In one embodiment, the amber LEDs and the white LEDs should to be dispersed as to cause an even illumination of the mixed light. The ratio of Amber LEDs to White LEDs may vary. It depends on the amount of light emitted by the white and amber LEDs. The distribution of amber and white LEDs in
A second set of white continuous spectrum LEDs 1012c are arranged on the periphery of a circle C3 (again for descriptive purposes) on the substrate 1012. The circle C3 is smaller than the circle C2 and concentric with the circle C2. Each pair of adjacent white LEDs of the second set 1012c along the circle C3 are separated by the same distance D13.
At the center of all of the circles C1, C2, and C3 is an amber spectrum LED 1012d. The purpose of this arrangement of LEDs is simply to disperse amber spectrum LEDs and white continuous spectrum LEDs in a logical order so that a uniform color of light is emitted. The amber LEDs could be located between each white LED or between every two white LEDs and so forth. Again, in some embodiments it is preferred to cause an even field of illumination emitted by the mixed light.
The
The ventilation holes in the substrate 1112 or 1212 are preferred to be in close proximity to each of the LEDs (such as LED 1112f or LED 1212f). The moving air traveling through the ventilation holes (1113a or 1213a) in the substrate (1112 or 1212) carries heat away from the LED that is generated by the LED. The size of the hole would be optimized to carry a certain volume of air at a certain velocity. The size of the hole might be different for a forced air cooling system from that of a convection system. The size of the hole would also depend on the amount of cooling required.
Despite the holes 1119, the base 1118g may still be a unified piece. I.e. despite the holes 1119a, 1119b, and 1119c, the piece 1121a is still connected to piece 1121b, etc. etc. Similarly despite the holes 1113, the substrate 1112 is still a unified piece.
The substrate 1212 has holes for ventilation 1213, including hole 1213a which are of the same type as holes 1113 shown in
The variable filter 1913 may be a liquid crystal emulsion filter mounted after the light sources 912a-f. In
In
Electronic housing 960 includes processor 2266 (or control and communications board) and lamp driver circuit 2280. The lamp housing 970 includes fan 2270, motor 950, substrate 912, and variable filter 1913.
The variable filter 1913 in the state shown by
The electronic housing 960 that may be the base of the multiparameter light may also house the various power supplies and control circuits. In
A control signal is applied to the communications board 2266 via communications line 2295. The communications board 2266 may provide a signal to the control circuit 2280 via communications line 2290 that provides information as to how the plurality of light sources such as 912a may be controlled as well as supply control information to the filter 1913 via control wires (not shown). The control circuit 2280 may receive power from a power source via wires 2294. The power source may be any suitable means of supplying electricity.
Within the lamp housing 970, a motor 950 is shown that provides the mechanical means to deform the substrate 912 that houses the LEDs 912a. The motor control wires are not shown for simplicity. The substrate 912 is constructed with strategically placed ventilation holes such as those shown in
In
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