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`Ex. 1010
`
`EX. 1010
`
`
`
`

`

`(19) United States
`(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2009/0086476 A1
`Tickner et al.
`(43) Pub. Date: Apr. 2, 2009
`
`
`US 20090086476A1
`
`(54)
`
`LIGHT EMITTING DIODE RECESSED
`LIGHT FIXTURE
`
`Publication Classification
`
`(75)
`
`Inventors:
`
`Jerold Tickner, Newnan, GA (US);
`Scott David Wegner, Peachtree
`City, GA (US); Evans Edward
`Thompson, III, Fairburn, GA (US)
`
`Correspondence Address:
`KING & SPALDING LLP
`1180 PEACHTREE STREET
`
`ATLANTA, GA 30309-3521 (US)
`
`(73)
`
`Assignee:
`
`Cooper Technologies Company,
`Houston, TX (US)
`
`(21)
`
`Appl. No.:
`
`12/235,116
`
`(22)
`
`Filed:
`
`Sep. 22, 2008
`
`Related US. Application Data
`
`(60)
`
`Provisional application No. 60/994,792, filed on Sep.
`21, 2007, provisional application No. 61/010,549,
`filed on Jan. 9, 2008, provisional application No.
`61/065,9l4, filed on Feb. 15, 2008, provisional appli-
`cation No. 61/090,391, filed on Aug. 20, 2008.
`
`(51)
`
`Int. Cl.
`F21V 21/04
`F21V 29/00
`F21V 7/00
`F21K 7/00
`(52) use.
`
`(2006.01)
`(2006.01)
`(2006.01)
`(2006.01)
`362/231; 362/234; 362/364; 362/249.02;
`362/235; 362/230
`
`(57)
`
`ABSTRACT
`
`A recessed light fixture includes an LED module, which
`includes a single LED package that is configured to generate
`all light emitted by the recessed light fixture. For example, the
`LED package can include multiple LEDs mounted to a com-
`mon substrate. The LED package can be coupled to a heat
`sink for dissipating heat from the LEDs. The heat sink can
`include a core member from which fins extend. Each fin can
`
`include one or more straight and/or curved portions. A reflec-
`tor housing may be coupled to the heat sink and configured to
`receive a reflector. The reflector can have any geometry, such
`as a bell-shaped geometry including two radii of curvature
`that join together at an inflection point. An optic coupler can
`be coupled to the reflector housing and configured to cover
`electrical connections at the substrate and to guide light emit-
`ted by the LED package.
`
`
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 1
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 1
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 1 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`
`FIG. 1
`
`O
`
`'
`
`1100
`
`FIG. 2
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 2
`
`
` |/I_Illlllifi| @L.
`
`O E. .
`
`O m
`
`—IIIIIIIIW/l/mm
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 2
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 2 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`m L
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 3
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 3
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 3 of 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`315
`
`300
`
`A
`r
`“““““‘“““‘“““““““““‘“““ ‘
`§
`4
`
`WWIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIJ
`
`
`
`2.
`
`FIG. 5
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 4
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 4
`
`
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 4 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`
`
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 5
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 5
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 5 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 6
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 6
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 6 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`311
`
`311
`
`
`310
`
`
`\\ \\\\: 311
`
`311 \\
`\
`\\x‘\
`311 \‘\
`\
`
`905
`
`_.
`
`311
`
`~‘
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 7
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 7
`
`

`

`32Gb
`
`320bb
`
`fl
`
`
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 8
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 8 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`
`FIG. 13
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 9
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 9
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 9 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`1415
`
`1420
`
`7425
`
`RELEASE THE SOCKET FROM
`THE EXISTING FIXTURE
`
`SCREW AN EDISON BASE
`ADAPTER INTO THE SOCKET
`
`PLUG WIRING FROM THE
`LED MODULE INTO THE
`EDISON BASE ADAPTER
`
`MOUNT THE EDISON BASE ADAPTER
`AND SOCKET TO A BRACKET ON
`
`THE LED MODULE
`
`1430
`
`7435
`
`SOUEEZE TORSION SPRINGS ON THE
`
`LED MODULE TOGETHER
`
`1440
`
`1445
`
`INSTALL BRACKET ENDS OF THE
`TORSION SPRINGS IN THE
`RECESSED HOUSING
`
`ROUTE WIRES INTO FIXTURE AND
`PUSH LED MODULE FLUSH
`TO CEILING SURFACE
`
`1400
`
`METHOD FOR INSTALLING
`AN LED MODULE IN AN EXISTING,
`
`NON-LED FIXTURE
`
`7470
`
`
`TITLE 24
`
`N0
`COMPLAINT
`
`7
`
`
`
`CUT WIRES IN THE EXISTING FIXTURE,
`REMOVING AN EDISON BASE FROM
`THE FIXTURE
`
`CUT WIRES ON AN EDISON BASE
`ADAPTER TO REMOVE AN EDISON
`SCREW-IN PLUG
`
`CONNECT THE WIRES FROM THE
`EDISON BASE ADAPTER TO THE
`
`EXISTING FIXTURE, AND PLUG WIRING
`FROMEBHSEOINEgAthaLngIINETRO THE
`
`MOUNT THE EDISON BASE
`ADAPTER TO A BRACKET ON
`THE LED MODULE
`
`FIG. 14
`
`Satco's EX. 1010, Page 10
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 10
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 10 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`7520a
`
`FIG. 15
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 11
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 11
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 11 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 12
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 12
`
`

`

`Patent Application Publication
`
`Apr. 2, 2009 Sheet 12 0f 12
`
`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`
`
`FIG. 19
`
`2005
`
`2005
`
`2015
`
`2010
`
`2015
`
`2010
`
`FIG. 20
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 13
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 13
`
`

`

`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`Apr. 2, 2009
`
`LIGHT EMITTING DIODE RECESSED
`LIGHT FIXTURE
`
`RELATED APPLICATIONS
`
`[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §
`119 to US. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/994,792,
`titled “Light Emitting Diode Downlight Can Fixture,” filed
`Sep. 21, 2007, US. Provisional Patent Application No.
`61/010,549, titled “Diverging Reflector for Light Emitting
`Diode or Small Light Source,” filed Jan. 9, 2008, US. Provi-
`sional Patent Application No. 61/065,914, titled “Dimmable
`LED Driver,” filed Feb. 15, 2008, and US. Provisional Patent
`Application No. 61/090,391, titled “Light Emitting Diode
`Downlight Can Fixture,” filedAug. 20, 2008. In addition, this
`application is related to co-pending US. patent application
`Ser. No.
`, titled “Diverging Reflector,” filed Sep. 22,
`2008, US. patent application Ser. No.
`, titled “Ther-
`mal Management for Light Emitting Diode Fixture,” filed
`Sep. 22, 2008, US. patent application Ser. No.
`, titled
`“Optic Coupler for Light Emitting Diode Fixture,” filed Sep.
`22, 2008, andU.S. Design patent application No. 29/305,946,
`titled “LED Light Fixture,” filed Mar. 31, 2008. The complete
`disclosure of each of the foregoing priority and related appli-
`cations is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.
`
`TECHNICAL FIELD
`
`[0002] The invention relates generally to recessed lumi-
`naires, and more particularly, to a light emitting diode down-
`light can fixture for a recessed luminaire.
`
`BACKGROUND
`
`[0003] A luminaire is a system for producing, controlling,
`and/or distributing light for illumination. For example, a
`luminaire can include a system that outputs or distributes light
`into an environment, thereby allowing certain items in that
`environment to be visible. Luminaires are often referred to as
`
`“light fixtures”.
`[0004] A recessed light fixture is a light fixture that is
`installed in a hollow opening in a ceiling or other surface. A
`typical recessed light fixture includes hanger bars fastened to
`spaced-apart ceiling supports or joists. A plaster frame
`extends between the hanger bars and includes an aperture
`configured to receive a lamp housing or “can” fixture.
`[0005] Traditional recessed light fixtures include a lamp
`socket coupled to the plaster frame and/or the can fixture. The
`lamp socket receives an incandescent lamp or compact fluo-
`rescent lamp (“CFL”) discussed above. As is well known in
`the art, the traditional lamp screws into the lamp socket to
`complete an electrical connection between a power source
`and the lamp.
`lighting manufacturers are being
`[0006]
`Increasingly,
`driven to produce energy eflicient alternatives to incandes-
`cent lamps. One such alternative was the CFL discussed
`above. CFLs fit in existing incandescent lamp sockets and
`generally use less power to emit the same amount of visible
`light as incandescent lamps. However, CFLs include mer-
`cury, which complicates disposal of the CFLs and raises
`environmental concerns.
`
`[0007] Another mercury-free alternative to incandescent
`lamps is the light emitting diode (“LED”). LEDs are solid
`state lighting devices that have higher energy efliciency and
`longevity than both incandescent lamps and CFLs. However,
`LEDs do not fit in existing incandescent lamp sockets and
`
`generally require complex electrical and thermal manage-
`ment systems. Therefore, traditional recessed light fixtures
`have not used LED light sources. Accordingly, a need cur-
`rently exists in the art for a recessed light fixture that uses an
`LED light source.
`
`SUMMARY
`
`[0008] The invention provides a recessed light fixture with
`an LED light source. The light fixture includes a housing or
`“can” within which an LED module is mounted. The LED
`
`module includes a single LED package that generates all or
`substantially all the light emitted by the recessed light fixture.
`For example, the LED package can include one or more LEDs
`mounted to a common substrate. Each LED is an LED die or
`
`LED element that is configured to be coupled to the substrate.
`The LEDs can be arranged in any of a number of different
`configurations. For example, the LEDs can be arranged in a
`round-shaped area having a diameter of less than two inches
`or a rectangular-shaped area having a length of less than two
`inches and a width of less than two inches.
`
`[0009] The LED package can be thermally coupled to a
`heat sink configured to transfer heat from the LEDs. The heat
`sink can have any of a number of different configurations. For
`example, the heat sink can include a core member extending
`away from the LED package and fins extending from the core
`member. Each fin can include a curved, radial portion and/or
`a straight portion. For example, each fin can include a radial
`portion that extends from the core member, and a straight
`portion that further extends out from the radial portion. In this
`configuration, heat from the LEDs can be transferred along a
`path from the LEDs to the core member, from the core mem-
`ber to the radial portions of the fins, from the radial portions
`of the fins to their corresponding straight portions, and from
`the corresponding straight portions to a surrounding environ-
`ment. Heat also can be transferred by convection directly
`from the core member and/or the fins to one or more gaps
`between the fins. The LED package can be coupled directly to
`the core member or to another member disposed between the
`LED package and the core member.
`[0010] A reflector housing can be mounted substantially
`around the LED package. For example, the reflector housing
`can be coupled to the heat sink and/or the can. The reflector
`housing can be configured to receive a reflector and to serve as
`a secondary heat sink for the LED module. For example, the
`reflector housing can be at least partially composed of a
`conductive material for transmitting heat away from the LED
`package. The reflector can be composed of any material for
`reflecting, refracting, transmitting, or diffusing light from the
`LED package. For example, the reflector can comprise a
`specular, semi-specular, semi-diffuse, or diffuse finish, such
`as gloss white paint or diffuse white paint. The reflector can
`have any of a number of different configurations. For
`example, a cross-sectional profile of the reflector can have a
`substantially bell-shaped geometry that includes a smooth
`curve comprising an inflection point. Top and bottom portions
`of the curve are disposed on opposite sides of the inflection
`point. To meet a requirement of a top-down flash while also
`creating a smooth, blended light pattern, the bottom portion
`of the curve can be more diverging than the top portion of the
`curve.
`
`[0011] An optic coupler can be mounted to the reflector
`housing, for covering electrical connections at the substrate
`of the LED package and/or for guiding or reflecting light
`emitted by the LED package. For example, the optic coupler
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 14
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 14
`
`

`

`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`Apr. 2, 2009
`
`can include a member with a central channel that is aligned
`with one or more of the LEDs of the LED package such that
`the channel guides light emitted by the LEDs while portions
`of the member around the channel cover the electrical con-
`
`nections at the substrate of the LED package. The optic cou-
`pler can have any of a number of different geometries that
`may or may not correspond to a configuration of the LED
`package. For example, depending on the sizes and locations
`ofthe electrical connections at the substrate, the portion ofthe
`optic coupler around the channel can have a substantially
`square,
`rectangular,
`rounded, conical, or
`frusto-conical
`shape.
`[0012] The LED module can be used in both new construc-
`tion and retrofit applications. The retrofit applications can
`include placing the LED module in an existing LED or non-
`LED fixture. To accommodate installation in a non-LED fix-
`
`ture, the LED module can further include a member compris-
`ing a profile that substantially corresponds to an interior
`profile of a can of the non-LED fixture such that the member
`creates a junction box between the member and a top of the
`can when the LED module is mounted in the can. To install the
`
`LED module, a person can electrically couple an Edison base
`adapter to both the existing, non-LED fixture and the LED
`module. For example, a person can cut at least one wire to
`remove an Edison base from the existing fixture, cut at least
`one other wire to remove an Edison screw-in plug from the
`Edison base adapter, and connect together the cut wires to
`electrically couple the Edison base adapter and the existing
`fixture. Alternatively, a person can release a socket from the
`existing fixture and screw the Edison base adapter into the
`socket to electrically couple the Edison base adapter and the
`existing fixture. The junction box can house the Edison base
`adapter and at least a portion of the wires coupled thereto.
`[0013] These and other aspects, features and embodiments
`of the invention will become apparent to a person of ordinary
`skill in the art upon consideration of the following detailed
`description of illustrated embodiments exemplifying the best
`mode for carrying out the invention as presently perceived.
`
`BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
`
`For a more complete understanding of the present
`[0014]
`invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made
`to the following description, in conjunction with the accom-
`panying figures briefly described as follows. The patent or
`application file contains at least one drawing executed in
`color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication
`with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Oflice upon
`request and payment of the necessary fee.
`[0015]
`FIG. 1 is an elevational top view of hanger bars, a
`plaster frame, a can, and a junction box of a recessed lighting
`fixture, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments.
`[0016]
`FIG. 2 is an elevational cross-sectional side view of
`the recessed lighting fixture of FIG. 1, in accordance with
`certain exemplary embodiments.
`[0017]
`FIG. 3 is an elevational side view of an LED module
`of a recessed lighting fixture, in accordance with certain
`exemplary embodiments.
`[0018]
`FIG. 4 is an elevational top view of the LED module
`of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain exemplary embodi-
`ments.
`
`FIG. 5 is an elevational cross-sectional side view of
`[0019]
`the LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain exem-
`plary embodiments.
`
`FIG. 6 is a perspective side view ofthe LED module
`[0020]
`of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain exemplary embodi-
`ments.
`
`FIG. 7 is an elevational bottom view of the LED
`[0021]
`module of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain exemplary
`embodiments.
`
`FIG. 8 is a perspective exploded side view of the
`[0022]
`LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain exemplary
`embodiments.
`
`FIG. 9 is an elevational cross-sectional top view of a
`[0023]
`heat sink of the LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with
`certain exemplary embodiments.
`[0024]
`FIG. 10 illustrates a thermal scan of the heat sink of
`the LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain exem-
`plary embodiments.
`[0025]
`FIG. 11 is a perspective side view of a reflector
`housing of the LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with
`certain exemplary embodiments.
`[0026]
`FIG. 12 is a perspective side view of a reflector
`being inserted in the reflector housing of FIG. 11, in accor-
`dance with certain exemplary embodiments.
`[0027]
`FIG. 13 is a perspective side view of a trim ring
`aligned for installation with the reflector housing of FIG. 11,
`in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments.
`[0028]
`FIG. 14 is a flow chart diagram illustrating a method
`for installing the LED module of FIG. 3 in an existing, non-
`LED fixture, in accordance with certain exemplary embodi-
`ments.
`
`FIG. 15 is a perspective side view of the LED mod-
`[0029]
`ule of FIG. 3 connected to a socket of an existing, non-LED
`fixture via an Edison base adapter, in accordance with certain
`exemplary embodiments.
`[0030]
`FIG. 16 is an elevational side view of the Edison
`base adapter ofFIG. 15, in accordance with certain exemplary
`embodiments.
`
`FIG. 17 is a perspective top view of an optic coupler
`[0031]
`of the LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain
`exemplary embodiments.
`[0032]
`FIG. 18 is a perspective bottom view of the optic
`coupler of FIG. 17, in accordance with certain exemplary
`embodiments.
`
`FIG. 19 is a perspective top view of an optic coupler
`[0033]
`of the LED module of FIG. 3, in accordance with certain
`alternative exemplary embodiments.
`[0034]
`FIG. 20 is an exaggerated depiction of a profile of
`the reflector, in accordance with certain exemplary embodi-
`ments.
`
`DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY
`EMBODIMENTS
`
`[0035] The following description of exemplary embodi-
`ments refers to the attached drawings, in which like numerals
`indicate like elements throughout the several figures. FIG. 1 is
`an elevational top view of hanger bars 105, a plaster frame
`110, a can-shaped receptacle for housing a light source (a
`“can”) 115, and a junction box 120 of a recessed lighting
`fixture 100, according to certain exemplary embodiments.
`FIG. 2 is an elevational cross-sectional side view of the
`
`hanger bars 105, plaster frame 110, can 115, and junction box
`120 of the recessed lighting fixture 100 of FIG. 1, in accor-
`dance with certain exemplary embodiments. With reference
`to FIGS. 1 and 2, the hanger bars 105 are configured to be
`mounted between spaced supports or joists (not shown)
`within a ceiling (not shown). For example, ends of the hanger
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 15
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 15
`
`

`

`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`Apr. 2, 2009
`
`bars 105 can be fastened to vertical faces of the supports or
`joists by nailing or other means.
`In certain exemplary
`embodiments, the hanger bars 105 can include integral fas-
`teners for attaching the hanger bars 105 to the supports or
`joists, substantially as described in co-pending US. patent
`application Ser. No. 10/090,654,
`titled “Hanger Bar for
`Recessed Luminaires with Integral Nail,” and US. patent
`application Ser. No. 12/122,945,
`titled “Hanger Bar for
`Recessed Luminaires with Integral Nail,” the complete dis-
`closures of which are hereby fully incorporated herein by
`reference.
`
`[0036] The distance between the supports orjoists can vary
`to a considerable degree. Therefore, in certain exemplary
`embodiments,
`the hanger bars 105 can have adjustable
`lengths. Each hanger bar 105 includes two inter-fitting mem-
`bers 105a and 10519 that are configured to slide in a telescop-
`ing manner to provide a desired length of the hanger bar 105.
`A person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the
`present disclosure will recognize that many other suitable
`means exist for providing adjustable length hanger bars 105.
`For example, in certain alternative exemplary embodiments,
`one or more of the hanger bars described in US. Pat. No.
`6,105,918, titled “Single Piece Adjustable Hanger Bar for
`Lighting Fixtures,” the complete disclosure of which is
`hereby fully incorporated herein, may be utilized in the light-
`ing fixture 100 ofFIG. 1.
`[0037] The plaster frame 110 extends between the hanger
`bars 105 and includes a generally rectangular, flat plate 11011
`with upturned edges 11019. For example, the flat plate 11011
`can rest on a top surface of the ceiling. The junction box 120
`is mounted to a top surface 110110 of the flat plate 11011. The
`junction box 120 is a box-shaped metallic container that
`typically includes insulated wiring terminals and knock-outs
`for connecting external wiring (not shown) to an LED driver
`(not shown) disposed within the can 115 of the light fixture
`100 or elsewhere within the light fixture 100.
`the plaster
`[0038]
`In certain exemplary embodiments,
`frame 110 includes a generally circular-shaped aperture 1100
`sized for receiving at least a portion of the can 115 there-
`through. The can 115 typically includes a substantially dome-
`shaped member configured to receive an LED module (not
`shown) that includes at least one LED light source (not
`shown). The aperture 1100 provides an illumination pathway
`for the LED light source. A person of ordinary skill in the art
`having the benefit of the present disclosure will recognize
`that, in certain alternative exemplary embodiments, the aper-
`ture 1100 can have another, non-circular shape that corre-
`sponds to an outer profile of the can 115.
`[0039]
`FIGS. 3-8 illustrate an exemplary LED module 300
`of the recessed lighting fixture 100 of FIG. 1. The exemplary
`LED module 3 00 can be configured for installation within the
`can 115 ofthe lighting fixture 100 ofFIG. 1. The LED module
`300 includes an LED package 305 mounted to a heat sink 310.
`The LED package 305 may be mounted directly to the heat
`sink 310 or with one or more other components mounted
`in-between the LED package 305 and the heat sink 310.
`[0040] The LED package 305 includes one or more LEDs
`mounted to a common substrate 306. The substrate 306
`includes one or more sheets of ceramic, metal, laminate,
`circuit board, mylar, or another material. Each LED includes
`a chip of semi-conductive material that is treated to create a
`positive-negative (“p-n”) junction. When the LED package
`305 is electrically coupled to a power source, such as a driver
`
`315, current flows from the positive side to the negative side
`of each junction, causing charge carriers to release energy in
`the form of incoherent light.
`[0041] The wavelength or color of the emitted light
`depends on the materials used to make the LED package 305.
`For example, a blue or ultraviolet LED can include gallium
`nitride (“GaN”) or indium gallium nitride (“InGaN”), a red
`LED can include aluminum gallium arsenide (“AlGaAs”),
`and a green LED can include aluminum gallium phosphide
`(“AlGaP”). Each of the LEDs in the LED package 305 can
`produce the same or a distinct color of light. For example, the
`LED package 305 can include one or more white LED’s and
`one or more non-white LEDs, such as red, yellow, amber, or
`blue LEDs, for adjusting the color temperature output of the
`light emitted from the fixture 100. A yellow or multi-chro-
`matic phosphor may coat or otherwise be used in a blue or
`ultraviolet LED to create blue and red- shifted light that es sen-
`tially matches blackbody radiation. The emitted light
`approximates or emulates “white,” incandescent light to a
`human observer. In certain exemplary embodiments,
`the
`emitted light includes substantially white light that seems
`slightly blue, green, red, yellow, orange, or some other color
`or tint. In certain exemplary embodiments, the light emitted
`from the LEDs in the LED package 305 has a color tempera-
`ture between 2500 and 5000 degrees Kelvin.
`[0042]
`In certain exemplary embodiments, an optically
`transmissive or clear material (not shown) encapsulates at
`least a portion of the LED package 305 and/or each LED
`therein. This encapsulating material provides environmental
`protection while transmitting light from the LEDs. For
`example, the encapsulating material can include a conformal
`coating, a silicone gel, a cured/curable polymer, an adhesive,
`or some other material known to a person of ordinary skill in
`the art having the benefit of the present disclosure. In certain
`exemplary embodiments, phosphors are coated onto or dis-
`persed in the encapsulating material for creating white light.
`In certain exemplary embodiments, the white light has a color
`temperature between 2500 and 5000 degrees Kelvin.
`[0043]
`In certain exemplary embodiments, the LED pack-
`age 305 includes one or more arrays of LEDs that are collec-
`tively configured to produce a lumen output from 1 lumen to
`5000 lumens in an area having less than two inches in diam-
`eter or in an area having less than two inches in length and less
`than two inches in width. In certain exemplary embodiments,
`the LED package 305 is a CL-L220 package, CL-L230 pack-
`age, CL-L240 package, CL-L102 package, or CL-L190 pack-
`age manufactured by Citizen Electronics Co., Ltd. By using a
`single, relatively compact LED package 305, the LED mod-
`ule 300 has one light source that produces a lumen output that
`is equivalent to a variety of lamp types, such as incandescent
`lamps, in a source that takes up a smaller volume within the
`fixture. Although illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 as including
`LEDs arranged in a substantially square geometry, a person of
`ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present
`disclosure will recognize that the LEDs can be arranged in
`any geometry. For example, the LEDs can be arranged in
`circular or rectangular geometries in certain alternative exem-
`plary embodiments.
`[0044] The LEDs in the LED package 305 are attached to
`the substrate 306 by one or more solderj oints, plugs, epoxy or
`bonding lines, and/or other means for mounting an electrical/
`optical device on a surface. Similarly, the substrate 306 is
`mounted to a bottom surface 31011 ofthe heat sink 310 by one
`or more solder joints, plugs, epoxy or bonding lines, and/or
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 16
`
`Satco's Ex. 1010, Page 16
`
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`US 2009/0086476 A1
`
`Apr. 2, 2009
`
`other means for mounting an electrical/optical device on a
`surface. For example, the substrate 306 can be mounted to the
`heat sink 310 by a two-part arctic silver epoxy.
`[0045] The substrate 306 is electrically connected to sup-
`port circuitry (not shown) and/or the driver 315 for supplying
`electrical power and control to the LED package 305. For
`example, one or more wires (not shown) can couple opposite
`ends of the substrate 306 to the driver 315, thereby complet-
`ing a circuit between the driver 315, substrate 306, and LEDs.
`In certain exemplary embodiments, the driver 315 is config-
`ured to separately control one or more portions ofthe LEDs to
`adjust light color or intensity.
`[0046] As a byproduct of converting electricity into light,
`LEDs generate a substantial amount of heat that raises the
`operating temperature of the LEDs if allowed to accumulate.
`This can result in efficiency degradation and premature fail-
`ure of the LEDs. The heat sink 310 is configured to manage
`heat output by the LEDs in the LED package 305. In particu-
`lar, the heat sink 310 is configured to conduct heat away from
`the LEDs even when the lighting fixture 100 is installed in an
`insulated ceiling environment. The heat sink 310 is composed
`of any material configured to conduct and/or convect heat,
`such as die cast metal.
`
`FIG. 9 is an elevational cross-sectional top view of
`[0047]
`the exemplary heat sink 310. FIG. 10 illustrates a thermal
`scan of the exemplary heat sink 310 in operation. With refer-
`ence to FIGS. 3-10, the bottom surface 310a of the heat sink
`310 includes a substantially round member 31019 with a pro-
`truding center member 3100 on which the LED package 305
`is mounted. In certain exemplary embodiments, the center
`member 3100 includes two notches 310d that provide a path-
`way for wires (not shown) that extend between the driver 315
`and the ends of the substrate 306. In certain alternative exem-
`
`plary embodiments, three or more notches 310d may be
`included to provide pathways for wires. In certain alternative
`exemplary embodiments,
`the bottom surface 310a may
`include only a single, relatively flat member without any
`protruding center member 3100.
`[0048]
`Fins 311 extend substantially perpendicular from
`the bottom surface 310a, towards a top end 3100 of the heat
`sink 310. The fins 311 are spaced around a substantially
`central core 905 of the heat sink 310. The core 905 is a
`
`member that is at least partially composed of a conductive
`material. The core 905 can have any of a number of different
`shapes and configurations. For example, the core 905 can be
`a solid or non-solid member having a substantially cylindrical
`or other shape. Each fin 311 includes a curved, radial portion
`311a and a substantially straight portion 31119. In certain
`exemplary embodiments, the radial portions 311a are sub-
`stantially symmetrical to one another and extend directly
`from the core 905. In certain alternative exemplary embodi-
`ments, the radial portions 311a are not symmetrical to one
`another. Each straight portion 311!) extends from its corre-
`sponding radial portion 311a, towards an outer edge 310fthe
`heat sink 310, substantially along a tangent of the radial
`portion 311a.
`[0049] The radius and length of the radial portion 311a and
`the length of the straight portion 311!) can vary based on the
`size ofthe heat sink 310, the size ofthe LED module 300, and
`the heat dissipation requirements ofthe LED module 300. By
`way of example only, one exemplary embodiment of the heat
`sink 310 can include fins 311 having a radial portion 311a
`with a radius of 1.25 inches and a length of 2 inches, and a
`straight portion 311!) with a length of 1 inch. In certain alter-
`
`native exemplary embodiments, some or all of the fins 311
`may not include both a radial portion 311a and a straight
`portion 31119. For example, the fins 311 may be entirely
`straight or entirely radial. In certain additional alternative
`exemplary embodiments, the bottom surface 310a of the heat
`sink 310 may not include the round member 31019. In these
`embodiments, the LED package 305 is coupled directly to the
`core 905, rather than to the round member 31019.
`[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the heat sink 310 is con-
`figured to dissipate heat from the LED package 305 along a
`heat-transfer path that extends from the LED package 305,
`through the bottom surface 310a of the heat sink, and to the
`fins 311 via the core 905. The fins 311 receive the conducted
`
`heat and transfer the conducted heat to the surrounding envi-
`ronment (typically air in the can 115 of the lighting fixture
`100) via convection. For example, heat from the LEDs can be
`transferred along a path from the LED package 305 to the core
`905, from the core 905 to the radial portions 311a of the fins
`311, from the radial portions 311a of the fins 311 to their
`corresponding straight portions 311b, and from the corre-
`sponding straight portions 311!) to a surrounding environ-
`ment. Heat also can be transferred by convection directly
`from the core 905 and/or the fins 311 to one or more gaps
`between the fins 311.
`
`In certain exemplary embodiments, a reflector hous-
`[0051]
`ing 320 is coupled to the bottom surface 310a ofthe heat sink
`310. A person of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
`the reflector housing 320 can be coupled to another portion of
`the LED module 300 or the lighting fixture 100 in certain
`alternative exemplary embodiments. FIG. 11 illustrates the
`exemplary reflector housing 320. With reference to FIGS. 3 -8
`and 11, the reflector housing 320 includes a substantially
`round member 320a having a top end 3201) and a bottom end
`3200. Each end 3201) and 3200 includes an aperture 3201911
`and 3200a, respectively. A channel 320d extends through the
`reflector housing 320 and connects the apertures 320ba and
`320011.
`
`[0052] The top end 3201) includes a substantially round top
`surface 320bb disposed around at least a portion of the chan-
`nel 320d. The top surface 320bb includes one or more holes
`320b0 capable of receiving fasteners that secure the reflector
`housing 320 to the heat sink 310. Each fastener includes a
`screw, nail, snap, clip, pin, or other fastening device known to
`a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the
`present disclosure. In certain alternative exemplary embodi-
`ments, the reflector housing 320 does not include the holes
`320190. In those embodiments, the reflector housing 320 is
`formed integrally with the heat sink 310 or is secured to the
`heat sink 310 via means, such as glue or adhesive, that do not
`require holes for fastening. In certain exemplary embodi-
`ments, the reflector housing 320 is configured to act as a
`secondary heat sink for conducting heat away from the LEDs.
`For example, the reflector housing 320 can assist with heat
`dissipation by convecting cool air from the bottom ofthe light
`fixture