权利要求：
1. An apparatus for providing light emitting diode (LED) lighting, the apparatus comprising:
a physical form having a predetermined shape, wherein the form is configured to support at least one LED strip thereto, and wherein the predetermined shape causes the at least one LED strip to be so configured as to emit light in a predetermined emission pattern when the at least one LED strip is coupled to the physical form; and
at least one constraint mechanism, wherein the at least one constraint mechanism, in whole or in part, constrains the at least one LED strip to remain configured to its predetermined shape, and wherein the at least one constraint mechanism includes a strip scale geometry, wherein the strip scale geometry is a geometry that is based on dimensions of the at least one LED strip, and wherein the strip scale geometry forms an active guide track that interacts directly with the at least one LED strip.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the predetermined shape has a luminous body geometry that is conical in shape, and wherein the at least one constraint mechanism configures the at least one LED strip into a conical spiral.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the predetermined shape has the luminous body geometry shape of a flat disc, and wherein the predetermined shape also has a strip scale geometry, and wherein the strip scale geometry is a geometry that forms a spirally configured active guide track that interacts directly with the at least one LED strip.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the physical form is made of plastic.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the physical form is made of metal.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a reflective material coupled to the form, wherein the reflective material conforms to the predetermined shape and alters the predetermined light emission pattern.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an adapter mechanism configured to couple the apparatus to a legacy fixture and to convert legacy lighting to LED lighting.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the physical form comprises removable portions that when removed alter a size of the physical form for target fixtures.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the physical form incorporates a mounting surface that is configured to bond with an adhesive material for mounting the at least one LED strip.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the physical form incorporates a mounting surface having marking features.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a diffusing lens configured to cover the at least one LED strip when the diffusing lens is appropriately mounted.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a diffusing lens configured to conform to and complement the predetermined shape of the physical form.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising geometrical features that facilitate positioning and constraint of components in addition to the at least one LED strip that contribute to overall function of a complete lighting fixture.
14. An apparatus for positioning ancillary components, the apparatus comprising:
a physical form that has a predetermined shape, wherein the form is configured to support at least one fixture component thereto, and wherein the predetermined shape causes the at least one fixture component to be so positioned as to contribute to overall function of a complete lighting fixture when coupled to other components of the at least one fixture component; and
at least one constraint mechanism, wherein the at least one constraint mechanism, in whole or in part, constrains the at least one fixture component to remain so positioned, and wherein the at least one constraint mechanism includes a component scale geometry, wherein the component scale geometry is a geometry that is based on dimensions of the at least one fixture component, and wherein the component scale geometry forms a wholly or partially enclosed volume that interacts directly with the at least one fixture component to constrain its position.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the predetermined shape has a luminous body geometry that is conical in shape.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the predetermined shape has the luminous body geometry shape of a flat disc, and wherein the predetermined shape also has a strip scale geometry, and wherein the strip scale geometry is a geometry that forms a spirally configured active guide track that interacts directly with the at least one LED strip.
17. A system comprising:
a physical form having a predetermined shape, wherein the form is configured to support at least one light emitting diode (LED) strip thereto, and wherein the predetermined shape causes the at least one LED strip to be so configured as to emit light in a predetermined emission pattern when the at least one LED strip is coupled to the physical form;
at least one constraint mechanism, wherein the at least one constraint mechanism, in whole or in part, constrains the at least one LED strip to remain configured to its predetermined shape, and wherein the at least one constraint mechanism includes a strip scale geometry, wherein the strip scale geometry is a geometry that is based on dimensions of the at least one LED strip, and wherein the strip scale geometry forms an active guide track that interacts directly with the at least one LED strip; and
one or more fixture infrastructure components configured to secure the physical form, wherein the physical form is configured to support at least one fixture component thereto.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the predetermined shape of the physical form causes the at least one fixture component to be so positioned as to contribute to overall function of a complete lighting fixture when the at least one fixture component is coupled to the one or more fixture infrastructure components.
19. The system of claim 17, wherein the predetermined shape has a luminous body geometry that is conical in shape.
20. The system of claim 17, wherein the predetermined shape has the luminous body geometry shape of a flat disc, and wherein the predetermined shape also has a strip scale geometry that forms a spirally configured active guide track.
具体实施方式：
[0023]Implementations described herein enable use of high volume, standardized and economical LED strips, LED power supplies, and LED controllers as the illumination components of efficient, attractive and economical LED lighting fixtures. As described in more detail below, in various implementations, one or more LED strip configuration forms physically configure one or more LED strip segments into an attractive and efficacious source of illumination, while, in various implementations, complementary forms position and retain necessary power supplies and control circuits. In some implementations, one or more complementary lens or diffuser components, typically in conjunction with standard fastener components, complete an entire fixture.
[0024]In general, LED strip configuration forms, complementary component positioning forms, and lens or diffuser components are amenable to manufacturing techniques that are low in cost even at low volumes. Thus, a wide variety of aesthetic designs may be achieved economically, with only limited volume requirements for each.
[0025]In particular, flexible LED strips, and pre-packaged electronic systems to drive them, have evolved into high volume, low cost commodities. While LED strips are popularly employed in linear fluorescent replacement tubes, their physical configuration is unsuitable for many fixtures. LED based direct replacements for fluorescent tubes, when designed to be directly driven by the circuitry of their predecessors, carry a cost burden in their custom electronics. Implementations described herein adapt LED strips and standardized driving components for easy and economical incorporation into a variety of attractive ceiling, wall, and lamp fixtures. In particular, “LED strip configuration forms” are described as having properties capable of physically configuring LED strips into geometries suitable for use within lighting fixtures, including standardized off-the-shelf fixtures. Similarly, “component placement forms,” or alternatively “component positioning forms,” are described as having properties capable of physically positioning ancillary components, such as power supplies and LED controllers, within lighting fixtures.
[0026]FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example LED strip configuration form 100 in a ceiling fixture configuration, according to some implementations. The overall form 100 is a physical form that is single, contiguous piece of material with a predetermined shape. Its geometry may be recognized as including three distinct portions, where each part contributes unique aspects to the overall functionality of the form.
[0027]Active guide portion 102 includes material supporting a surface operational to both guide and constrain the intended path of LED strip 112. LED strip 112 is shown for illustrative purposes, and is not part of the form. Active guide portion 102 is configured in this example as an ascending spiral, having one end 104 at the outer edge 106 of LED strip configuration form 100 and another end 108 near the center opening 110. As such, active guide portion 102 functions as a track with a geometry to which an LED strip can comply and may be affixed thereto. In various implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 is configured to support an LED strip 112. As shown, LED strip 112 attaches or couples to LED strip configuration form 100 by wrapping around active guide portion 102. Center opening 110 is a feature of the fixture infrastructure portion of LED strip configuration form 100. In this example, the fixture infrastructure portion consists of a planar disc positioned coaxially with center opening 110, with diameter meeting the innermost part of the scaffolding portion that supports end 108 of active guide portion 102. In this example, the fixture infrastructure portion facilitates mounting LED strip configuration from 110 to the threaded center stem of a fixture using one or more threaded nuts, optionally supplemented by one or more washers. Outer edge 106 of LED configuration form 100 is another feature of the infrastructure portion of the form. It extends from the outer edge to the point at which it meets the outermost part of the scaffolding portion that supports active guide portion 102. The outer edge fixture infrastructure feature assures stable positioning of LED strip configuration form 100 when pressed against external fixture infrastructure as a result of pressure applied by use of abovementioned threaded nut(s) and associated washer(s) near center opening 110.
[0028]The LED strip configuration form of FIG. 1 may be directly produced by a three-dimensional (3D) printer. When printed in a suitable material, such a form may be used directly in a thermoform molding process. In some implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 is configured such that a reflective material may be coupled to the LED strip configuration form 100, where the reflective material conforms to the shape of form 100 and alters the predetermined light emission pattern. For example, the shape of LED strip configuration form 100 may achieve a reasonably uniform and pleasing emission pattern. In some implementations, a white material may be used to promote reflectivity. Contours may be curved in particular directions (e.g., downward or laterally in order to promote reflection versus entrapment of light. To further improve light output, the molded part may be of high reflectivity material, or of clear material backed by a reflective layer such as aluminum foil.
[0029]FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the example LED strip configuration form 100 of FIG. 1, according to some implementations. The spirally configured active guide portion 102 is highlighted as a primary focus. In this particular view, LED strip configuration form 100 is oriented such that the wider end faces upward toward the ceiling 104 and the narrower end faces downward away from the ceiling 104.
[0030]The active guide portion 102 of LED strip configuration form 100 serves to configure a 5-meter LED strip into a conical spiral that fits within the original fixture globe. In some implementations, marking features may be incorporated within the form. A predetermined number of length markers (e.g., ten dark markings) at various positions along the LED strip active guide portion highlight areas that are slightly raised. These areas have been highlighted with dark vertical lines for improved visibility. These length markers divide the overall length of the active guide portion 102 into smaller segments (e.g., divide a full five-meter length into half-meter segments). Such length markers may be any color and may be drawn at any predetermined lengths with any suitable pigmenting system, or may be incorporated as small variations in surface position or texture. In some implementations, length markers may facilitate removal of an innermost and/or outermost portion of the form, thus adapting it for a shorter segment of LED strip. In some implementations, length markers function to facilitate cutting LED strip forms to smaller sizes. Length markers are more feasible for thermoformed parts than thick, printed parts.
[0031]The luminous body geometry of this example is a conical shape. It may be observed the vertical displacement per turn is less than the full height of the spiral track. This characteristic may be thought of as vertical compression, or a reduction in the slope of the cone. This compression aspect permits use of longer LED strips, and thus brighter illumination than would be possible if the vertical displacement of each turn were required to be at least the full width of the LED strip.
[0032]FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the example LED strip configuration form 100 of FIG. 1, according to some implementations. Active guide portion 102 and a scaffolding portion 302 are highlighted for focus. In various implementations, active guide portion 102 and scaffolding portion 302 are part of and made from a single piece of material (e.g., molded plastic, printed plastic, etc.), where active guide portion 102 extends away from scaffolding portion 302. Example implementations directed to the formation of LED strip configuration form 100 are described in more detail herein. A portion 304 of LED strip configuration form 100 is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 4.
[0033]Scaffolding portion 302 serves to support active guide portion 102, thereby stabilizing its geometry and establishing the overall shape of the fixture's luminous geometry, depicted in this example as a conical shape
[0034]In various implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 has a predetermined luminous body shape. In this particular implementation, the predetermined luminous body shape is conical. In various implementations, active guide portion 102 is configured to support one or more LED strips thereto, such as LED strip 112 of FIG. 1. For example, active guide portion 102 supports an LED strip by providing a spirally configured surface upon which an LED strip is wrapped.
[0035]As described in more detail herein, a predetermined shape causes the LED strip to be so configured as to emit light in a predetermined emission pattern when the LED strip is coupled to form active guide portion 102 of LED strip configuration form 100. For example, scaffolding portion 302 imparts a conical shape as shown. As such, when an LED strip is wrapped around spirally configured active guide portion 102, the LED strip 112 forms a conical shape that conforms to the conical shape of scaffolding portion 302. In this particular example, the LED strip emits light from a luminous body geometry that is conical in shape. In various implementations, a downward/outward emission pattern is fostered by the configuration and reflectance of active guide portion 102 and scaffolding portion 302.
[0036]In various implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 also includes at least one constraint mechanism. In this example, spirally configured active guide portion 102 is a constraint mechanism. The constraint mechanism, in whole or in part, constrains the LED strip to remain configured to its predetermined shape. In this example, the predetermined shape of the LED strip configuration form 100 is a compound geometry including active guide, scaffolding, and fixture infrastructure portions. The luminous body shape thus produced is conical.
[0037]FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of portion 304 of LED strip configuration form 100 of FIG. 3, according to some implementations. As shown, scaffolding portion 302 provides the overall luminous body shape of LED strip configuration form 100, and scaffolding portion 302 shapes and supports spirally configured active guide portion 102. As shown, active guide portion 102 is the outer surface of a wall, the an inner surface of which, 404 may be considered scaffolding. As such, active guide portion 102 functions as a constraint mechanism to which an LED strip may be attached, where the LED strip attaches to the outer surface 102, similar to the LED strip wrapping around active guide portion 102 as shown in FIG. 1.
[0038]This design applies curvature with respect to the 60-degree rise of the conical shape of its luminous body geometry. Upon review, curvature with respect to a horizontal surface would improve reflective performance. To achieve vertical reflection, the curved surface should be horizontal directly above the LED emitter, and sloping downward at a 45-degree angle directly in front of the LED emitter.
[0039]In some implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 includes removable portions that when removed alter a size of form 100 for target fixtures. Thermoform molded LED strip configuration forms may be reproduced inexpensively. They do not need great strength for use in an enclosed fixture, so may be formed from relatively thin material. Such construction may adapt a single form size to different size fixtures by cutting the forms, such that, for example, only the inner 4 meters, or the outer 4 meters, remain. Length markers molded into the forms facilitate such cutting.
[0040]The material used for LED strip configuration form 100 may be a variety of material types. For example, in some implementations, form 100 may be made of a predetermined type of plastic. In some implementations, the form 100 may be made of a predetermined type of metal. The geometry of the LED strip configuration form of FIG. 1 is also compatible with production by a sheet metal stamping process. Though more expensive, robustly rigid sheet metal may be desirable in mobile or high vibration environments. It may also be desirable in applications that employ high intensity, high power LEDs or other heat producing components that require superior heat conduction for thermal management. Sheet metal may also be desirable for high temperature operation, which may exceed the glass transition temperature of thermoformed plastic.
[0041]In various implementations, the LED strip configuration form includes geometrical features that facilitate positioning and constraint of components in addition to the at least one LED strip that contribute to overall function of a complete lighting fixture.
[0042]The geometrical details or portions of the LED strip configuration form that interacts directly with the LED strip and its emitted light field constitute strip scale geometry. As such, the strip scale geometry is based on the dimensions of the LED strip segment(s) with which the LED strip configuration form is intended to be mated.
[0043]The predetermined shape of form 100 depicted in FIG. 5 has a luminous body geometry that is conical in shape. The overall conical shape of the LED strip assembly constitutes its overall luminous body geometry. In other words, the luminous body geometry is based on the overall shape of the LED strip assembly, where the overall shape of the LED strip assembly is based, in part, on strip scale geometry. For example, if the strip scale geometry is configured to conform to an overall shape that is conical, the overall luminous body geometry of the LED strip assembly is also conical. In some implementations, in addition to the luminous body geometry, the LED strip configuration form may have additional features to facilitate mounting of the strip assembly to a fixture, or mounting of an accessory such as a power supply. In various implementations, the LED strip assembly is a combination of an LED Strip with an LED strip configuration form and associated constraint mechanisms.
[0044]FIG. 5 illustrates an example fixture assembly 500 that includes the example LED strip configuration form 100 of FIG. 1, according to some implementations. Shown is LED strip configuration form 100, which is attached to a fixture base 502. In this particular implementation, fixture base 502, an element of a fixture infrastructure, is configured to mount to a ceiling. In various implementations, fixture base 502 has a predetermined shape. In this particular implementation, fixture base 502 has a cylindrical shape. The particular size relative to the LED strip configuration form 100 may vary and will depend on the particular implementation. In various implementations, fixture base 502 is configured to support one or more fixture components thereto. For example, fixture base 502 may be configured such that electronics 504, LED strip configuration form 100, and a diffusing lens 506 are attached to fixture base 502. In various implementations, electronics 504 may include any necessary electronic components (not shown) including electronic circuitry, a power supply, etc.
[0045]Various implementations also function to position ancillary components. For example, in some implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 has a physical form that has a predetermined shape such that the form is configured to support at least one fixture component thereto. The predetermined shape causes a fixture component to be so positioned as to contribute to overall function of a complete lighting fixture when the at least one fixture component is coupled to other components of the fixture component. In various implementations, the constraint mechanism, in whole or in part, constrains the fixture component to remain so positioned. As shown, the fixture assembly 500 also includes a constraint mechanism. In this example, the constraint mechanism is spirally configured active guide portion 102. The constraint mechanism, in whole or in part, constrains the at least one fixture component (e.g., an LED strip) to remain so positioned.
[0046]Shown is a profile of the innermost spiral ring 510, followed by similar profiles progressing upward at a 60-degree angle from horizontal, and outward at 10 mm horizontal spacing. The particular angle and spacing may vary, depending on the particular implementation. The outward face of the spiral is the intended active guide track for an LED strip.
[0047]Rod 512 is an element of a fixture infrastructure, which, in conjunction with other fastener elements, holds fixture base 502, LED strip configuration form 100, and diffusing lens 506 together. In some implementations, the fixture infrastructure includes a threaded rod 512 coupled to nuts 514, 516, and 518, washers 520 and 522, and a fastener 514. These elements of fixture infrastructure may also be referred to as fixture infrastructure components. In other implementations, the fixture infrastructure may not have all of the components shown and/or may have other elements including other types of elements instead of, or in addition to, those shown herein.
[0048]In various implementations, the upper portion of rod 512 may connect to hardware in the ceiling and be secured to it with nut 514 (optionally with a lock washer) shown at the top portion of rod 512. The middle portion of rod 512 passes through fixture base 502 and LED strip configuration form 100. As indicated above, LED strip configuration form 100 is secured by nuts 516 and 518, and washers 520 and 522 above and below its position along rod 512. The lowest portion of rod 512 screws into a nut or fastener 514, which serves to secure the position of diffusing lens 506. Torque on the outermost nut or fastener 514 presses the outer rim of diffusing lens 506 against the wall or ceiling or fixture base, thus mechanically stabilizing the outermost portions of the fixture assembly.
[0049]FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the example LED strip configuration form 100 of FIG. 1 mounted to a fixture base 602, according to some implementations. Fixture base 602 is part of a ceiling fixture that is largely hidden from view. The ceiling fixture is a legacy 3-bulb ceiling fixture converted to LED illumination by use of an LED strip configuration form.
[0050]The example legacy fixture of FIG. 6 is rated for three 75-watt incandescent bulbs, producing about 3300 lumens while consuming 225 watts. Compact fluorescent “100-watt equivalent” bulbs raised light output to 4800 lumens while consuming 69 watts. The 12-volt, 5-meter LED strip of the final configuration raised light output to 5580 lumens, driven by a 60-watt power supply. It produces superior color rendering index (CRI) greater than 90 light quality. The LED configuration also incorporates a dimming controller not available for compact fluorescents. The particular electronic specifications may vary, depending on the particular implementation.
[0051]Also shown is an LED strip 604 that is wrapped around LED strip configuration form 100. In some implementations, LED strip configuration form 100 is attached to fixture base 602 with a central fastening mechanism such as a fastening screw 606.
[0052]In some implementations, fixture base 602, and one or more related fixture infrastructure components, may secure in place a component positioning form (hidden from view), which holds a dimming controller module and LED power supply (hidden from view) in place within the fixture. The necessary power supply and the component positioning form may both be mounted within the fixture by means of a simple flat washer and nut affixed to the central threaded stem rod of the fixture. The nut is tightened to raise the form until it presses against the structures above. Following this step, the original lens is affixed to the center stem with its decorative washer and finial nut to complete the retrofit.
[0053]In operation, light from LEDs within the outer-most spiral will radiate unimpeded. Some light from LEDs from inner spirals will pass unimpeded, some will strike the backing surface of the next outward-most spiral, and some will strike the upper surface. Careful design can optimize lighting efficiency by using high reflectivity material, and contouring surfaces for minimum reflections before exit. In addition, surface contours may be designed to reflect light in conformance with a variety of emission patterns as may be deemed desirable. For example, if a very directional emission pattern (e.g., a spot light) is desired, the spiral track may be given a large vertical dimension, and the LED strip mounted as far as possible into the semi-enclosed space thus formed. Light would be thereby be channeled into a primarily vertical exit path. In some implementations, the outer-most spiral may be used as a reflector, not as a mounting surface for outward facing LEDs. In addition, radiation characteristics of specific LEDs intended to be used may be taken into account.
[0054]For efficient manufacture, it is proposed that LED strip configuration forms with functional geometries similar to those of FIG. 1 through FIG. 16 be created with a molding process such as thermoforming. Forms so produced will likely be made of thin sheet material, heated to a pliable temperature and conformed to the active surface of a mold with vacuum. With minor adjustments, the 3D printed form of this example may be used as a mold for such a process. The product would not have the relatively smooth conical inner surface as that of the example. Instead, its inner surface would mirror its outer surface with a depression opposite every prominence and vice versa. When 3D printed for use as a molding form, the inner portion of the cone may be completely filled for added strength.
[0055]For optimal LED strip conformance to the LED strip configuration form, a vertical mounting surface would be ideal. The design of FIG. 1 deviates from that ideal by a 3-degree draft angle to facilitate removal of thermoformed copies after molding.
[0056]The retrofit performed on the fixture of FIG. 1 does not damage the original fixture in any way. Thus, the retrofit is completely reversible. Should the LED strip need to be changed in the future, replacing the LED strip, or returning the fixture to its original configuration employing discrete bulbs, is very easy.
[0057]FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an example LED strip configuration form 700 in a table lamp configuration, according to some implementations. In this example implementation, LED strip configuration form 700 is mounted onto a fixture base 702, which may rest on a horizontal surface such as a table top, counter top, shelf, etc. Also shown is a diffusing lens 704.
[0058]FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of the example LED strip configuration 700 form of FIG. 7, according to some implementations. As shown, LED strip configuration form 700 is conical in overall shape and includes a spirally configured active guide portion 802. Active guide portion 802 is configured such that it spirals around LED strip configuration form 100. Active guide portion 802 functions as a track that guides an LED strip as the LED strip is attached to active guide portion 802. In various implementations, LED strip configuration form 700 is configured to support an LED strip (not shown) that attaches with adhesive or couples to LED strip configuration form 100 by wrapping around spiral portion 802.
[0059]FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the example LED strip configuration form 700 of FIG. 7, according to some implementations. Shown are spirally configured active guide portion 802 and a scaffolding portion 902. As shown, in various implementations, active guide portion 802 and scaffolding portion 902 are part of and made from a single piece of material, where active guide portion 802 forms steps 904 as the track of spirally configured active guide portion 802 wraps around LED strip configuration form 700.
[0060]As shown, the overall luminous body geometry of LED strip configuration form 700 is a truncated cone. Its strip scale geometry is vertically uncompressed, and the vertical displacement of a single spiral turn is greater than the width of the spiraling LED strip-mounting surface.
[0061]The cross section shown differs slightly from the physical LED strip configuration form in that the top has a round cap instead of an access opening, and cable access slits are not included. These changes make the form suitable for direct use as a mold for use in a thermoforming process. Multiple inexpensive working copies of the LED strip configuration form could be produced from such a mold. Outer surfaces of the spiral track feature a small draft angle to facilitate removal of the molded copies, even though a strictly vertical orientation would more ideally conform to a flexible LED strip.
[0062]FIG. 10 illustrates an example fixture assembly 1000 that includes the example LED strip configuration form 700 of FIG. 7, according to some implementations. Shown is LED strip configuration form 700, which is attached to a fixture base 1002. As indicated above, fixture base 1002 is configured to rest on a horizontal surface such as a table. In various implementations, fixture base 1002 has a predetermined shape. In this particular implementation, the fixture base has a rectangular shape. The particular size relative to the LED strip configuration form may vary and will depend on the particular implementation. In various implementations, fixture base 1002 is configured to support one or more fixture components such as electronics 1004, LED strip configuration form 700, and a diffusing lens 1006. In various implementations, electronics 1004 may include any necessary electronic components (not shown) including electronic circuitry, a power supply, etc.
[0063]FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the example LED strip configuration form 700 of FIG. 7 mounted to a fixture base 1102, according to some implementations. Shown are completed table lamp assembly revealing LED strip configuration form 700 mounted on a fixture base 1102, with its accompanying LED strip 1104, which is wrapped around LED strip configuration form 700. Also shown is a diffusing lens 1106, which is removed from the table lamp assembly.
[0064]In various implementations, diffusing lens 1106 is configured to cover LED strip 1104 when the diffusing lens is mounted on fixture base 1102. The LED strip configuration form is configured to be covered by a diffusing lens when mounted on fixture base 1102. As such, the diffusing lens is configured to complement and conform to the predetermined shape of the LED strip configuration form 700.
[0065]The LED strip configuration form, complementary diffusing lens, and form base components of FIG. 7 may be directly produced by a 3D printer. As with the example of FIG. 1, similar thermoformed components of superior quality may be produced by using 3D printed parts as molding forms.
[0066]The table lamp depicted in FIG. 11 employs 2 meters of 12-volt RED/GREEN/BLUE LED strip, configured by winding on conically spiraled LED strip configuration form 700, and covered with complementary diffusing lens 1106. Fixture base 1102 houses various electronics (hidden from view), which include an LED controller module, a switch to turn power on and off, a pushbutton to trigger operations of the LED controller, and a connector to accept the output of a wall mounted LED power supply or a 12 volt battery pack.
[0067]FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of an example LED strip configuration form 1200 in a ceiling or wall fixture configuration, according to some implementations. In this particular implementation, the fixture configuration is a minimalist functional ceiling or wall fixture supported by a standard duplex electrical outlet, and employing an LED strip configuration form.
[0068]FIG. 13 illustrates another perspective view of the example LED strip configuration form 1200 of FIG. 12, according to some implementations. In this particular implementation, LED strip configuration form 1200 is oriented to be mounted on the ceiling. Other orientations are possible and will depend on the particular implementation. For example, LED strip configuration form 1200 may be oriented to be mounted on a wall. The shape of the example in FIG. 13 has a low profile, being cylindrical in shape versus a conical. As shown, LED strip configuration form 1200 includes a constraint mechanism (e.g., spiral portion 1202).
[0069]FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the example LED strip configuration form 1200 of FIG. 12, according to some implementations. Shown is spirally configured active guide portion 1202. In some implementations, the predetermined shape has the luminous body geometry shape of a flat disc (e.g., cylindrical), and where the predetermined shape also has a strip scale geometry that forms a spirally configured active guide track.
[0070]At the center is a flat ring feature (an opening) that facilitates mounting the form to the center stem of the fixture. The flat upper surface extends to the outer dimension of the form, with a maximum radius equal to the largest local radius of the spiraling LED strip-mounting surface. Moving outward from the center, we see a profile of the innermost spiral ring, followed by similar profiles progressing horizontally outward at 10 mm spacing. The outward face of the spiral is the intended mounting track for an LED strip.
[0071]Complete vertical compression produces a luminous body geometry of a flat disc. The overall luminous body geometry of conical shape is a good match for common legacy fixtures, and permits retrofits that improve luminance as well as efficiency. For specific fixtures, the luminous body geometry could be adjusted to resemble a hemisphere, or any arbitrary contour. This example illustrates the relative independence of strip scale and overall luminous body geometries within the LED strip configuration form.
[0072]FIG. 15 illustrates an example fixture assembly 1500 that includes the example LED strip configuration form 1200 of FIG. 12, according to some implementations. Shown are LED strip configuration form 1200 and a diffusing lens 1506, which are attached to the fixture infrastructure.
[0073]In this particular implementation, fixture infrastructure includes a length of 6-32 threaded rod 1508 coupled with nuts and washers that anchor rod 1508 to a standard duplex outlet at one end, the diffusing lens at the other end, the component positioning form 1510 and the LED strip configuration form 1200 at intermediate positions. The duplex outlet, a standard item mounted per standard practice within the ceiling or wall, is not considered part of the fixture. The particular size relative to the LED strip configuration form may vary and will depend on the particular implementation. In various implementations, the fixture may include one or more component positioning form(s) 1510, and is configured to support one or more fixture components such as electronics 1504, LED strip configuration form 1200, and a diffusing lens 1506. In various implementations, electronics 1504 may include any necessary electronic components (not shown) including electronic circuitry such as for dimming control, a power supply, etc. In this particular implementation, component positioning form 1511 is anchored to rod 1508 at a position that places the form near or in contact with the top of the LED strip configuration form, thus constraining electronics to remain within their compartment. In this case, proximity of the component positioning form to the LED strip configuration form within the fixture serves as a constraint mechanism to enclose electronics securely within the intended compartment of the component configuration form. In an alternative implementation in which a power supply is the only necessary electronic component, a “wall mount” style power supply may be mounted by simply plugging it into the duplex outlet. Need for a component positioning form would thereby be obviated. In another alternative implementation, active features o