Architectural lighting distributed from contained radially collimated light and compact efficient luminaires

Abstract

From a quasi point source, light distribution means produce a selected one or ones of broadly distributed ambient light, non-shadowing task illumination, multi-beam display lighting, projective lineal lighting and projective surface washing illumination lineally or radially distributed. Collimation optics shape light from a quasi point source into a disc of selected axial thickness. Containment optics contain divergence of and direct light from the collimation optics to distribution optics. The distribution optics modulates and redirects the radiant energy into a shape or shapes useful in illuminating architectural space. The distribution optics may reflect or refract light to direct and shape it for a particular architectural illumination requirement. The efficient combination of the optics provides for a system of minimized thickness, permitting maximum flexibility in integration with or within shelves, soffits and other structural members. Collimating means may surround the light source and one or more light direction changing means provided to redirect the light into desired directions and patterns. There can be two reflector, and the light source can be movable with respect to one of the reflectors whereby the amount of upward and downward lighting can be continuously varied. Options are available for having the light directed all in one direction and for using refractors in lieu of reflectors in selected arrangements.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.