IMPROVED CONTINUOUS FLOW REACTOR FOR PHOTOCHEMICAL PROCESSES WITH CONCAVE-FACED SIDES

Abstract

A light generating device (100) comprising a plurality of solid state light sources (10) and a housing (120) comprising side wall elements (20). The light sources (10) are enclosed by the side wall elements (20), and the light generating device (100) generates >=90% of light source light (11) within a triangular prism having a top angle (α)<=180°. The side wall elements (20): —each have a first side (21) directed inwards facing the light sources (10) and a second side (22) which is directed outwards and is reflective for visible light;—are configured at both sides of a housing plane (110), under an angle (β1) between 0-45° relative to the housing plane (110);—have a projection with height H1 on the housing plane (110)—define a largest width (W1) of the light housing 120), wherein H1/W1>1.

Claims

1. A light generating device (100) comprising (i) a plurality of light sources (10) configured to generate light source light (11), and (ii) a housing (120) comprising side wall elements (20), a first end part (125) and a second end part (126), wherein the housing (120) has a virtual housing plane (110) configured between the side wall elements (20): wherein the light sources (10) comprise solid state light sources, wherein the light sources (10) are at least partially enclosed by the side wall elements (20); wherein the light generating device (100) is configured to generate at least 90% of the light source light (11) within a triangular prism having a top angle (α) smaller than 180°; wherein the side wall elements (20): each have a first side (21) directed inwards, and a second side (22) directed outwards, wherein at least part of the second sides (22) is reflective for visible light; are configured at both sides of the housing plane (110), each under a first angle ((β1) selected from the range of 0-45° relative to the housing plane (110); have a projection on the housing plane (110), with the projection having a first height (H1); and wherein the side wall elements (20) define a largest width (W1) of the light housing (120), wherein the first height (H1) and the largest width (W1) have a ratio selected from the range of H1/W1>1, wherein at least one of the second end part (126) and one or more of the side wall elements (20) comprises a plurality of panels (27) configured in a roof tile configuration, with openings (31) between the panels (27).

2. The light generating device (100) according to claim 1, comprising an air flow channel (30) configured to facilitate an air flow over at least part of the first height (H1).

3. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall elements (20) define a first housing opening (25), wherein during operation of the light generating device (100) at least part of the light source light (11) escapes via the first housing opening (25).

4. The light generating device (100) according to claims 2-3, wherein the side wall elements (20) define the first housing opening (25) and a second opening (26) at a mutual distance (d) of at least 0.5*H1, wherein the first housing opening (25) and the second opening (26) are openings of the air flow channel (30).

5. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first end part (125) and the second end part (126) are defined by the side wall elements (20), wherein at least part of both side wall elements (20) converge to each other in the direction of the second end part (126).

6. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-5, where the side wall elements (20) define a right triangular prism shaped or truncated right triangular prism shaped housing (120).

7. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims 1-5, wherein at least part of both side wall elements (20) converge to each other in the direction of the second end part (126) defining a semi-cylindrical like shape.

8. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of the second sides (22) is specular reflective for visible light, and wherein the at least part of the second sides (22) have a reflectivity for visible light propagating in a direction perpendicular to the housing plane (110) of at least 60%.

9. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall elements (20) comprise a thermally conductive material having a thermal conduction of at least 20 W/m/K.

10. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tiles are oriented at an angle β1 with the direction of gravity, wherein β1 is selected from the range of 0-45°, preferably β1 is selected from the range of 15-40°.

11. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein H1/W1>1.5.

12. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a thermally conductive element (130) at least partially enclosed by the side wall elements (20), wherein the light sources (10) are configured in thermal contact with the thermally conductive element (130), and wherein the thermally conductive element comprises heat fins (131).

13. The light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light generating device (100) is a modular device comprising a first part (101) comprising one of the side wall elements (20) and a second part (102) comprising the other of the side wall elements (20), wherein, when assembled together, the light generating device (100) comprises a suspension arrangement (140), wherein, when the light generating device (100) is configured in a suspended state suspending from a predefined elongated support element (1105), the light generating device (100) encloses over the first length (L1) the predefined elongated support element (1105).

14. An agricultural facility (1000), wherein the agricultural facility (1000) comprises a support structure (1100) and the light generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light generating device (100) is configured suspending from a part of the support structure (1100).

15. A method of installing a light generating device (100) according to claim 13, wherein the method comprises assembling the first part (101) and the second part (102) around the predefined elongated support element (1105), wherein during operation of the light generating device (100) the housing plane (110) is perpendicular to a horizontal.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0079] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which:

[0080] FIGS. 1a-1b schematically depict some embodiments of the invention;

[0081] FIG. 2 schematically depicts some simulation results;

[0082] FIGS. 3a-3c schematically depict some further embodiments with some aspects of the invention;

[0083] FIG. 3d schematically depicts a still further embodiment; and

[0084] FIGS. 4a-4c schematically depict some further aspects and embodiments. The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0085] The herein described light generating devices may especially be passively cooled LED luminaires, though other embodiments are not excluded. It appears that a higher system efficacy may result in less heat generation per unit of light output. LED efficacy in the horticulture domain is still increasing. Hence, it may be that it is desirable that the amount of light per heatsink may e.g. double. Further, it appears useful when heat releasing surfaces, like e.g. fins of the heatsink, or the heatsink itself, should especially be arranged and oriented to allow air to flow through in a natural way. Also, in embodiments transportation of heat from the LED (PCB) towards the fins might be optimized allowing the heat to reach the fins efficiently. Further, it appears desirable that the intercepting (and light absorbing) outside surface of the luminaire should be reduced as much as possible. Herein, it is shown that this may be obtained by optimizing the shape. Yet further, it appears useful when the reflectivity of the remaining intercepting outside surface should be as high as possible, especially to allow re-use of intercepted daylight. Further, it appears useful when the luminaire could be “hidden behind” existing structures/frames in the greenhouse, as much as possible. In embodiments, it could essentially fully be integrated into existing frames.

[0086] In embodiments, a straight rim around the outside could oriented vertically and painted white in order to redirect sunlight as much as possible towards the crop. Without the rim the light would be absorbed in the fin structure, which is basically a maze for light. Further, in embodiments the inside structure of the fins may be designed to allow for enough heat dissipation and thus cooling of the LEDs. Yet further, as the top surface of the luminaire appears to absorb essentially all the sunlight that is intercepted, reducing this absorbing top surface may be useful to further reduce daylight interception.

[0087] FIGS. 1a-1b schematically depict some embodiments of the light generating device, indicated with reference 100.

[0088] FIG. 1a very schematically depicts an embodiment of the light generating device 100. The light generating device 100 comprises a housing 120 comprising side wall elements 20. The housing 120 has a virtual housing plane 110.

[0089] The side wall elements 20 have a projection on the housing plane 110, with the projection having a first height H1 and a first length L1. Further, the side wall elements 20 define a largest width W1 of the light generating device 100 (perpendicular to the housing plane 110).

[0090] As schematically depicted in more detail in FIG. 1b, the light generating device 100 comprises a plurality of light sources 10 configured to generate light source light 11 (see FIG. 1b, embodiments I-III). The light sources 10 are at least partially enclosed by the side wall elements 20. The light sources 10 may especially comprise solid state light sources, such as LEDs.

[0091] The light generating device 100 is configured to generate at least 70%, especially at least 80%, such as at least 90% of the light source light 11 within a triangular prism having a top angle α smaller than 180°, such as a top angle α equal to or smaller than 130°. The percentage especially relates to the total emitted power (in e.g. Watt) of the light source light 11. Especially, the housing plane 110 is a plane of symmetry for the triangular prism (within which the light source light 11 may be generated). As schematically depicted in the drawing, the virtual housing plane 110 is configured between the side wall elements 20. Or, in other words, the virtual housing plane 110 is configured between two faces of the triangular prism (wherein at least about 70% of the light source light may be generated). Further, the virtual housing plane intersects a third face of the triangular prism (wherein at least about 70% of the light source light may be generated).

[0092] As schematically depicted, the side wall elements 20 each have a first side 21 directed inwards, such as directed to the light sources 10 and a second side 22 directed outwards, such as directed away from the light sources 10. Especially, at least part of the second sides 22 is reflective for visible light. In specific embodiments, at least part of the second sides 22 is specular reflective for visible light.

[0093] In embodiments, the side wall elements 20 comprise a thermally conductive material having a thermal conduction of at least 20 W/m/K. This may facilitate thermal management of the device 100, as heat from the light sources may be better dissipated.

[0094] Further, the side wall elements 20 are configured at both sides of the housing plane 110, each under a first angle (31 selected from the range of 0-45° relative to the housing plane 110. First angles β1 for the respective side wall elements 20 may be the same, but may in specific embodiments also differ. In FIG. 1a, and in embodiment I of FIG. 1b, the first angle β1 is 0°.

[0095] Referring to embodiments II and III in FIG. 1b, the condition of the first angle (β1) selected from the range of 0-45° relative to the housing plane especially refers to the respective second side 22 of the side wall elements 20. Especially, the condition of the first angle ((β1) selected from the range of 0-45° relative to the housing plane may in embodiments refer to the entire second side 22 of the respective side wall elements 20 (see especially embodiment II). In yet other embodiments, the condition of the first angle ((β1) selected from the range of 0-45° relative to the housing plane may in embodiments refer to at least 80% of a surface area of the second side 22 of the respective side wall elements 20 (see also embodiment III).

[0096] Reference AF indicates an air flow. Hence, especially the housing 20 is configured such that an air flow may flow through at least part of the housing 20, especially over at least part of the first height H1.

[0097] As indicated above, the side wall elements 20 may have a projection on the housing plane 110, with the projection having a first height H1 and a first length L1. Further, the side wall elements 20 may define a largest width W1 of the light generating device 100 or of the housing (perpendicular to the housing plane 110). Amongst others from the simulation, it appears that especially H1/W1≥0.25, such as H1/W1≥0.5, may be beneficial. Further, good (simulation) results were obtained when e.g. H1/W1>1. Hence, in specific embodiments the first height (H1) and the largest width (W1) have a ratio selected from the range of H1/W1>1, even more especially H1/W1≥1.5, such as in embodiments H1/W1≥2. The simulations show that amongst others increasing H/W shows better results, when also increasing the reflectivity of the side walls. A theoretical luminaire that has large H but minimal W and 100% reflectivity would show the best results, as the maximum amount of sunlight will be reflected. In a specific example of relatively narrowest luminaire of 200 mm high and 20 mm wide, H1/W1=10. However, the housing may in embodiments not be higher than about 200 mm.

[0098] Further, in specific embodiments 0.1≤W1/L1≤0.5. Especially, 0.15≤H1/L1≤0.4 and 0.15≤W1/L1≤0.4.

[0099] As schematically depicted in embodiments I-III in FIG. 1b, the light generating device 100 may comprise an air flow channel 30 configured to facilitate an air flow over at least part of the first height H1.

[0100] Especially, the side wall elements 20 define a first housing opening 25. During operation of the light generating device 100 at least part of the light source light 11 escapes via the first housing opening 25.

[0101] Further, the side wall elements 20 may define the first housing opening 25 and a second opening 26 at a mutual distance d of at least 0.5*H1. Especially, the first housing opening 25 and the second opening 26 are openings of the air flow channel 30. In embodiments I-III of FIG. 1b, the distance d is essentially H1. As indicated above, the first height H1 is especially defined parallel to the housing plane 110.

[0102] The housing 120 may comprises a first end part 125, which may also be indicated as bottom, and a second end part 126, which may also be indicated as top, defined by the side wall elements 20.

[0103] In embodiments, see embodiments II and III in FIG. 1b, at least part of both side wall elements 20 converge to each other in the direction of the second end part 126. For instance, see embodiment II of FIG. 1b, the side wall elements 20 define a (truncated) triangular prism shaped housing 120. In another example, see embodiment III of FIG. 1b, at least part of both side wall elements 20 converge to each other in the direction of the second end part 126, e.g. defining a semi-cylindrical like shape.

[0104] Referring to embodiment II of FIG. 1b, the schematically depicted housing especially has the shape of a truncated right triangular prism. Three faces are shown (not taking the top face due to the truncation), of which two faces are defined by the side wall elements. The virtual housing plane 110 is configured between these two faces, and is in this embodiment also a plane of symmetry for those faces. Likewise, the virtual housing plane 110 is in this embodiment a plane of symmetry for the side wall elements 20. Note that in this embodiments 2*β1 is not the same as a. These angles are not necessarily the same. Angle α may be used for indicated the intensity distribution of the light source light 11 and angles (31 are used to indicate the angle of the side wall elements 20 with the virtual housing plane 110.

[0105] Simulations were performed to determine the effect of form factor and surface finish on daylight interception. In total 7 different form factors have been included, ranging from ‘flat and wide’ to ‘high and narrow’. The 7 examples are indicated below. Note that in all these examples, it was assumed that the housing has a beam like shape (i.e. all angles of all faces 90°):

TABLE-US-00001 Length Width Height (L1) (W1) (H1) Design (cm) (cm) (cm) H1/W1 H1/L1 W1/L1 1 125 12 12 1 0.096 0.096 2 125 6 24 4 0.192 0.048 3 125 24 6 0.25 0.048 0.192 4 62.5 24 12 0.5 0.192 0.384 5 62.5 12 24 2 0.384 0.192 6 62.5 48 6 0.125 0.096 0.768 7 62.5 6 48 8 0.768 0.096

[0106] For each of those shapes the finish or reflection of the outside vertical walls was varied: anodized (40%), mirror (95%) and white (87%). These are indicated in FIG. 2 with references A, M, and W, respectively. All situations have the same artificial light level installed. All models have the same cubic volume. In FIG. 2, the numbers on the x-axis refer to the designs; the y-axis indicates the reduction relative to the daylight level. In the simulation, realistic dimensions in relation to the greenhouse and conditions in relation to sunlight have been chosen. The geographic location is over the tropic of Cancer, especially the Netherlands.

[0107] A few conclusions can be drawn from this FIG. 2:

1. flat and wide form factors (model 3,6) are blocking the most daylight;
2. For anodized and white finishes, it seems best to keep all 3 dimensions as similar as possible; for example, using a square cross-section, or even a cube overall shape;
3. With a highly reflective ‘mirror’ finish it is possible to reduce daylight interception drastically, in combination with ‘high and narrow’ shape (models 2,5,7).

[0108] FIG. 3a schematically depict some further examples, similar to those schematically depicted in embodiments II and III in FIG. 1b. The embodiments in FIGS. 3a-3b are indicated with numbers I, II, and III. There is no specific relation with the number I-III in FIG. 1b.

[0109] FIG. 3b schematically depict some embodiments of openings 26. Different options may be possible.

[0110] FIGS. 3a-3b schematically show examples of linear grow light luminaires comprising a device top with a minimal horizontal surface (essentially only a line). A possible issue with conventionally shaped luminaires may be that incident light reaching the horizontal top surface of the luminaire will be reflected upwards away from the plants. FIGS. 3a-3b shows examples of the specific embodiment whereby the linear greenhouse luminaire is shaped in such a way that its device top has a minimum horizontal surface. Typically, the cross-section of such a device will be (substantially) triangular shaped or drop shaped. Referring to FIGS. 1b (especially embodiment II) and FIGS. 3a and 3b (especially embodiments I), the housing may in embodiments be a triangular prism shaped housing or truncated triangular prism shaped housing.

[0111] Referring to embodiment I of FIGS. 3a and 3b, the schematically depicted housing especially has the shape of a right triangular prism. Three faces are shown, of which two faces are defined by the side wall elements. The virtual housing plane (not depicted) is configured between these two faces, and is in this embodiment also a plane of symmetry for those faces. Likewise, the virtual housing plane is in this embodiment a plane of symmetry for the side wall elements.

[0112] As indicated above, it is herein described to optimizing the shape or form factor of the lighting system or luminaire or light generating device. Amongst others, a (linear) luminaire is proposed to provide grow light for a greenhouse whereby (1) the top of the linear luminaire has a minimal horizontal surface (e.g. being a line) and (2) highly reflective surfaces are used on the outside walls to re-use (redirect) incident daylight as much as possible. It is also possible to combine such multiple linear structures, e.g. in an open 2D grid above the plants, or by integrating the proposed solution with the mechanical support structure (trellis) of the greenhouse.

[0113] There are multiple embodiments possible to reduce the daylight interception. Cross-sections are shown schematically in FIG. 3c and discussed below. Especially, the side wall elements 20 are highly reflective, such as mirror-like, with a reflection of at least 90%. Dashed elements may be absorbing light. Perforated elements allow air to flow through. References 10 indicate light sources. The arrows AF indicate airflow. FIG. 3c schematically depicts some options to reduce daylight interception.

[0114] Embodiment I has a form factor where the width is minimal, but height is large to still have sufficient cooling surface area. The large sidewalls are highly reflective, either specular like a mirror or diffusing like paper (or a hybrid of the two). The large sidewall can have a significant contribution to heat dissipation via radiation (on top of convection) if a material like ‘Alanod MIRO’ is used. This material combines high light reflectivity with high thermal emissivity. Transporting heat from the led towards the top is challenging due to large distance. This can be solved by using a thick-walled aluminum structure; however, this would increase weight. Alternatives are using heat-pipes, vapor chamber or a thermosyphon principle to transport the heat upwards inside the luminaire.

[0115] Embodiment II has a form factor and functionality very similar to the existing Signify Compact module, but with ‘half the width and double the height’. Transporting heat is easier compared to a). In embodiments I and II of FIG. 1, the first angle is essentially 0°.

[0116] Embodiment III provides a variation to II in which the top surface is reduced and the vertical sidewalls tilted. Hence, the first angle is unequal to 0°.

[0117] Embodiment IV has reflective sidewalls, which are thermally decoupled and can be considered as a ‘jacket’. It still allows airflow along the actual (hidden) heatsinks. Hence, in embodiments the light generating device 100 may further comprise a thermally conductive element 130 at least partially enclosed by the side wall elements 20, wherein the light sources 10 are configured in thermal contact with the thermally conductive element 130, and wherein the thermally conductive element comprises heat fins 131. See further also FIGS. 4a-4b.

[0118] Embodiment V is essentially the same as embodiment IV but with an external reflector consisting of multiple lamellae to allow airflow to enter at multiple intake positions, such as via openings in between the lamellae. The lamellae overlap slightly, for example in that they are arranged in a roof tile configuration, to ensure maximal interception and redirection of sunlight. Another variation is to have an adjustable tilt of the light emitting areas slightly to enable a wider beam or better aiming of the beam of light resulting in a better uniformity at crop level. Hence, in embodiments one or more of the side wall elements comprises a plurality of panels configured in a roof tile configuration. Here, the tiles or facets or panels may form a stack with openings in the z-direction of the stack. This allows entrance of the air via the side wall elements.

[0119] Embodiment VI is an embodiment where the lighting system can be mounted ‘around’ the trellis mounting structure in a greenhouse. The net interception is lower since the trellis structure would already cause daylight interception. Basically, the lighting system is mounted in (part of) the shadow of the mounting structure. The lighting system could consist of 2 sub-modules allowing upward airflow through the center. The 2 sub-modules are mechanically connected to 1 system, or individually mounted to the trellis. The concept can also be combined with V). The rectangular feature in the middle of the light generating device symbolized part of a support structure (such as e.g. the trellis).

[0120] Especially, in general the light sources 10 may be configured such, that viewer viewing the housing in a suspended configuration (as schematically depicted in FIG. 3c) from the same height as the housing may not see a light emitting surface of the light source(s). In embodiments, referring to embodiments V of FIG. 3c, the lowest panel may be as low as the lowest light emitting surface of the light source(s) (assuming the light generating device 100 configured in an operational configuration).

[0121] Of course it may also be possible to mount concept a) or any other luminaire to both sides of the trellis. However, the new concept is about having the functionality available in a single luminaire.

[0122] FIG. 3d schematically depicts and embodiment of the light generating device 100, similar to embodiments V of FIG. 3c, with an option to counteract droplets that fall in the direction of gravity 29, to enter the housing 120. The housing 120 comprises a first end part 125, a second end part 126 and side walls 20 extending between the first end part and the second end part. Each side wall 20 comprises a plurality of panels 27 arranged in a roof tile configuration, with openings 31 between the panels, also referred to as tiles, enabling air flow AF between the panels along heat fins 131 of thermally conductive elements 130. Light sources 10 are arranged at the first end 125 while top roof panels 23 are arranged at the second end 126. The panels 27 are oriented at an angle 131 of about 15° with the direction of gravity 29 and housing plane 110, while the top panels 23 are oriented at a respective angle 131 of about 40° with the direction of gravity 29 and the housing plane 110. Both the panels 27 and the top panel 23 overlap in a manner such that water droplets can flow over the panels 27 and the top panels 23 in the direction of gravity 29, essentially without entering the housing 120. It is particularly noted that the top panels 23 are arranged on either side of the housing plane 110, yet overlap each other such that in a projection parallel to the direction of gravity 29 no direct line of view is possible from the bottom 125 through the top 126 of the housing 120 when the housing is empty.

[0123] FIG. 4a schematically depicts an embodiment of an agricultural facility 1000, such as a greenhouse roof-construction. Reference 1100 indicates support structure. By way of example, two light generating devices 100 are depicted, which by way of example may enclose part of the support structure 1100. Hence, FIG. 4a schematically depict an embodiment of the agricultural facility 1000 (for growing plants (not shown)), wherein the agricultural facility 1000 comprises a support structure 1100 and the light generating device 100, wherein the light generating device 100 is configured suspending from a part of the support structure 1100.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 4b, the light generating device 100 may be a modular device comprising a first part 101 comprising one of the side wall elements 20 and a second part 102 comprising the other of the side wall elements 20. When assembled together, the light generating device 100 comprises a suspension arrangement 140, wherein, when the light generating device 100 is configured in a suspended state suspending from a predefined elongated support element 1105 (having in embodiments a second length L2 larger than the first length L1), the light generating device 100 encloses over the first length L1 the predefined elongated support element 1105.

[0125] FIG. 4b schematically also depicts an embodiment of a method of installing a light generating device 100, wherein the method comprises assembling the first part 101 (of a kit of parts) and the second part 102 (of a kit of parts) around the predefined elongated support element 1105, wherein during operation of the light generating device 100 the housing plane 110 is perpendicular to a horizontal. FIG. 4b (thus) also schematically depicts a kit of parts which may be used to assemble into the light generating device 100. The kit of parts may also include more elements (than the first part and the second part).

[0126] Multiple elements of the proposed linear lighting element concept may also be combined in new form factors, such as depicted in FIG. 4c. For instance, an open 2D grid structure could be created by combining multiple linear light generating devices 100, possibly hanging on multiple wires as a pendant structure which may be vertically moved to adjust for the plant height.

[0127] The term “plurality” refers to two or more.

[0128] The terms “substantially” or “essentially” herein, and similar terms, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The terms “substantially” or “essentially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially or essentially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or the term “essentially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%.

[0129] The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”.

[0130] The term “and/or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and/or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and/or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term “comprising” may in an embodiment refer to “consisting of” but may in another embodiment also refer to “containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species”.

[0131] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0132] The devices, apparatus, or systems may herein amongst others be described during operation. As will be clear to the person skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to methods of operation, or devices, apparatus, or systems in operation.

[0133] It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0134] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

[0135] Use of the verb “to comprise” and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

[0136] The article “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0137] The invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In a device claim, or an apparatus claim, or a system claim, enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0138] The invention also provides a control system that may control the device, apparatus, or system, or that may execute the herein described method or process. Yet further, the invention also provides a computer program product, when running on a computer which is functionally coupled to or comprised by the device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system.

[0139] The invention further applies to a device, apparatus, or system comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.

[0140] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined in order to provide additional advantages. Further, the person skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and that also more than two embodiments can be combined. Furthermore, some of the features can form the basis for one or more divisional applications.