VAPOR CHAMBER COOLED HIGH LUMEN DEVICE WITH IMPROVED COOLING SOLUTION

Abstract

The invention provides a vapor chamber element (1000) comprising a first part (1100), a second part (1200), and a third part (1300), wherein the second part (1200) and third part (1300) are associated to the first part (1100), wherein the second part (1200) and third part (1300) are configured spatially separated with a first distance (d1) along a first length (L1), defining an opening (200) between the second part (1200) and the third part (1300); wherein the vapor chamber element (1000) comprises one or more vapor chambers (100) at least partially comprised by the second part (1200) and third part (1300); wherein the vapor chamber element (1000) further comprises one or more heat fin elements (2000), wherein the one or more heat fin elements (2000) comprise one or more heat fins (2100), wherein the one or more heat fin elements (2000) bridge the first distance (d1) and close a part of the opening (200).

Claims

1. A lighting device comprising an electronic component and one or more vapor chamber elements, wherein the electronic component is thermally coupled to at least one of the one or more vapor chamber elements; wherein the electronic component comprises a solid state light source; and wherein the vapor chamber element comprising a first part, a second part, and a third part, wherein the second part and third part are associated to the first part, wherein the second part and third part are configured spatially separated with a first distance (d1) along a first length (L1), defining an opening between the second part and the third part; wherein the vapor chamber element comprises one or more vapor chambers at least partially comprised by the second part and third part; wherein the vapor chamber element further comprises one or more heat fin elements, wherein the one or more heat fin elements comprise one or more heat fins, wherein the one or more heat fin elements bridge the first distance (d1) and close a part of the opening; and wherein the first part, the second part, and third part mutually share a single vapor chamber.

2. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more heat fin elements close 5-60% of the opening.

3. (canceled)

4. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the second part has a second width (d2), wherein the third part has a third width (d3), wherein the second part, the opening, and the third part define a total width (w), wherein the second width (d2) and the third width (d3) together have a ratio to the total width (w) selected from the range of 0.15≤(d2+d3)/w≤0.4.

5. The lighting device according to claim 4, wherein 0.25≤(d2+d3)/w≤0.3.

6. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the second width (d2) and the third width (d3) each independently are at least 2 mm.

7. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the first length (L1) and the first distance (d1) have a ratio 2≤L1/d1≤200.

8. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more heat fin elements comprise a support configured to support the one or more heat fins, wherein the support bridges the first distance (d1).

9. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the one or more supports comprise one or more openings.

10. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the one or more of the one or more heat fins are hollow and/or perforated.

11. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device comprising a plurality of vapor chamber elements.

12. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of vapor chamber elements have an n-gonal configuration, wherein n is selected from the group consisting of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12.

13. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic component further comprises a driver for the solid state light source.

14. The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic component (160) is thermally coupled to at least one of the one or more first parts.

15. A lamp or a luminaire comprising the lighting device according to claim 1.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084] 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:

[0085] FIGS. 1a-1d schematically depict some embodiments and variants of the lighting device;

[0086] FIGS. 2a-2e schematically depict some further embodiments and variants;

[0087] FIGS. 3a-3d schematically depict some further embodiments and variants;

[0088] FIGS. 4a-4e schematically depict some further embodiments and variants; and

[0089] FIGS. 5a-5b schematically depict some further aspects. The schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0090] FIGS. 1a-1d schematically depict several embodiments and variants of a vapor chamber element 1000.

[0091] FIG. 1a schematically depicts a top view. Heat fin elements are not depicted for the sake of understanding (however, see further below).

[0092] The vapor chamber element 1000 comprises a first part 1100, a second part 1200, and a third part 1300. As schematically depicted, the second part 1200 and third part 1300 are associated to the first part 1100. The second part 1200 and third part 1300 are configured spatially separated with a first distance d1 along a first length L1. In this way, an opening 200 is defined between the second part 1200 and the third part 1300 (and in these embodiments also the first part 1100). The vapor chamber element 1000 comprises one or more vapor chambers 100 (see FIG. 1b) at least partially comprised by the second part 1200 and third part 1300.

[0093] The second part 1200 has a second width d2. The third part 1300 has a third width d3. Especially, the second part 1200, the opening 200, and the third part 1300 define a total width w. In embodiments, the second width d2 and the third width d3 together have a ratio to the total width w selected from the range of 0.1≤(d2+d3)/w≤0.45, more especially 0.15≤(d2+d3)/w≤0.4. In embodiments, the second width d2 and the third width d3 each independently are at least 2 mm. For instance, the second width d2 and the third width d3 may each independently be at least 3 mm.

[0094] In specific embodiments, the first length L1 and the first distance d1 have a ratio 2≤L1/d1≤40. Yet further, the vapor chamber element 1000 has a total length L. Especially, the first length L1 and the total length L have a ratio 0.2≤L1/L≤0.8.

[0095] Note that at the end of the second part 1200 and the third part 1400, a further part 1400 is depicted. This part connects the second part 1200 and the third part 1400. Also this part may comprise a vapor chamber.

[0096] Reference A indicates an axis of elongation. References 1001 and 1002 indicate a first end and a second end, respectively. These may define the length L. The axis of elongation A and the length L may especially be parallel. Further, they may be determined in the element plane 1050 (see FIG. 1c).

[0097] FIG. 1b schematically depicts a cross-sectional view parallel (or coinciding) with the element plane (see e.g. FIG. 1c). In the schematically depicted embodiment, the first part 1100, the second part 1200, and third part 1300 (and optionally the fourth part 1400) mutually share a single vapor chamber 100. Hence, in embodiments the first part 1100, the second part 1200, and third part 1300 are a monolithic body. Reference 1030 indicates the edge (or wall of the vapor chamber(s) 100).

[0098] FIG. 1c schematically depicts yet another cross-sectional view, along the lines 1c-1c indicated in FIG. 1b. The view is perpendicular to the element plane 1050. Here, it can also be seen that the first part 1100, the second part 1200/third part 1300, and the option fourth part 1400 may provide a single vapor chamber 100.

[0099] The vapor chamber 100 is at least defined by two plates, indicated with references 1010 and 1020. Inner faces 1011 and 1022, respectively, may defined a plate distance or vapor chamber height H1. These plates 1010 and 1020 have an average plate distance H1. In embodiments, the average plate distance H1 may be selected from the range of 50 μm-5 mm. The first plate 1010 and the second plate 1020 may each have a thickness independently selected from the range of 50-5000 μm, such as 300-2000 μm. The first plate 1010 and the second plate 1020 (and the optional edge 1030) may comprise a material selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, and (stainless) steel. The vapor chamber 100 may comprise wick material (not depicted). The thickness or vapor chamber height H1 may essentially be constant over the entire plates 1010, 1020.

[0100] The element length L and the average plate distance H may e.g. have a ratio selected from the range of L/H≥10. In embodiments, H may be selected from the range of 0.2-5 mm.

[0101] In specific embodiments, also L1/H≥10.

[0102] FIG. 1d schematically depicts yet another cross-sectional view, along the lines 1d-1d indicated in FIG. 1b. The different vapor chamber 100, however, form a single vapor chamber 100 (see also FIGS. 1b-1c).

[0103] FIGS. 2a-2e schematically depicts some further embodiments.

[0104] As schematically depicted in FIG. 2a, the vapor chamber element 1000 may further comprises one or more heat fin elements 2000. The one or more heat fin elements 2000 comprise one or more heat fins 2100. As schematically depicted, the one or more heat fin elements 2000 bridge the first distance d1 and close a part of the opening 200. Especially, the one or more heat fin elements 2000 close 5-60% of the opening 200 (see also FIG. 2e).

[0105] FIG. 2a also schematically depicts an embodiment of a device 150 comprising an electronic component 160 and one or more vapor chamber elements 1000 (here a single vapor chamber element). In embodiments, the electronic component 160 is thermally coupled to at least one of the one or more vapor chamber elements 1000. FIG. 2a is a top view.

[0106] In specific embodiments, all light sources 10 and/or all (other) electronic components 150) may be configured at a second distance L2 from the second end independently selected from the range of at least 0.2*L, such as at least 0.3*L, like at least 0.4*L.

[0107] FIG. 2b schematically depicts a side view. Further, by way of example it is schematically depicted that the electronic component 160 comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of a solid state light source 10 and a driver 110 for the solid state light source 10 (see e.g. also FIG. 2c).

[0108] Further, the electronic component 160 is thermally coupled to at least one of the one or more first parts 1100. Here, the electronic component may be physically coupled to respective the first part 1100.

[0109] FIG. 2c again schematically depicts a cross-section perpendicular to the element plane 1050, based on the cross-section indicated in FIG. 2a. Further, by way of example the heat fin elements 2000 are arranged at both sides. Note that the heat fin elements 2000 may also be arranged at a single side. Further, the heat fin elements 2000, or more especially the heat fins 2100 may differ in shape and/or size (e.g. at one side relative to the other).

[0110] FIG. 2c also schematically depicts an embodiment wherein the one or more heat fin elements 2000 comprise a support 2200 configured to support the one or more heat fins 2100, wherein the support 2200 bridges the first distance d1 (see FIG. 2c in combination with e.g. FIG. 2a).

[0111] FIG. 2d schematically depicts an embodiment of the vapor chamber element 1000 without bridging element or fourth part 1400. For the sake of clarity, the heat fin elements 2000 are not depicted.

[0112] FIG. 2e schematically only depicts the opening 200 with heat fin elements 2000 covering part of it. The hatched area is not closing the opening. Especially, the one or more heat fin elements 2000 close 5-60% of the opening 200. Hence, the hatched area may be 40-95% of the total cross-sectional area of the opening 200. When heat fin elements 2000 are configured at both sides, they will in general be configured symmetrical. Whether or not configured symmetrical, in embodiments the respective percentage of closure/opening at both sides may essentially be the same.

[0113] FIGS. 3a-3d schematically depict possible embodiments of an assembly 50 comprising a plurality of vapor chamber elements 1000 as described herein.

[0114] FIG. 3a schematically depicts a side view of such assembly 50. Especially, in embodiments the plurality of vapor chamber elements 1000 have an n-gonal configuration, wherein n is selected from the group consisting of 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12. Here, an hexagonal embodiment is very schematically depicted. In this very schematically drawing, one vapor chamber element 1000 is shown in the middle, and the two others are bending behind the plane of drawing. Here, reference A′ indicates an axis of elongation of the assembly 50.

[0115] FIG. 3b schematically depicts a cross-sectional view at the first parts 1100 (see also the indication in FIG. 3a).

[0116] FIG. 3c schematically depicts a possible cross-sectional view at the first parts 1100 (see also the indication in FIG. 3a). Here, heat fins 2100 are available at both sides of the opening 200 (see also FIG. 3a).

[0117] FIG. 3d schematically depicts an embodiment in a similar way as the embodiment schematically depicted in 3a. However, here the opening 200 has a V-cut. This may facilitate processing and/or convection.

[0118] Referring to e.g. FIGS. 1a-1d, 2a-2d and 3d, the vapor chamber (and thus essentially also the vapor chamber element) may have the shape of a central chamber (part) with two (chamber) branches, which may optionally be connected. When the branches are connected, the vapor chamber may have a cross-sectional shape of a hollow rectangle, wherein the hollow part may be elongated, and in embodiments may also be rectangular. When the branches are not connected at two sides, but only with the central chamber (part), the vapor chamber may e.g. have the shape of a (kind of) two teeth fork. Especially, the two branches are configured parallel. The length of the central part and the length of the branches may be in the order of 1:10-10:1, especially 1:10-2:5. However, other dimensions may also be possible.

[0119] In embodiments, the volumes of the central chamber part and the respective branches may also be about in the order of 1:10-10:1, especially 1:10-2:5. In general, the volume of the chamber (part) in the fourth part may be about the same as or smaller than of the central part, though other volume ratios may also be possible.

[0120] Further, as shown in e.g. FIGS. 1a and 3d, in embodiments the second part 1200 and the third part 1300 do not extend beyond the fourth part 1400. In this way, the chamber opening 200 may be as large as possible.

[0121] FIGS. 4a-4e schematically depict some embodiments of heat fin elements 2000.

[0122] FIG. 4a schematically depicts three embodiments of possible heat fin elements 2000. Embodiment I schematically depicts cylindrical heat fins 2100. Embodiment II schematically depicts small plate like heat fins 2100, perpendicularly arranged on the length of the supports 2200. Embodiment III schematically depicts plate like heat fins 2100, parallelly arranged on the length of the supports 2200. On the left, side views are schematically depicted; on the right, top views are schematically depicted.

[0123] FIG. 4b schematically depicts a cross-sectional view or side view of an embodiments of the vapor chamber element 1000, by way of example with different types of heat fins 2100, at both sides of the opening 200.

[0124] FIG. 4c schematically depict an embodiment wherein the one or more supports 2200 comprise one or more openings 2250. These openings 2250 can be configured in communication with the opening 200 (see e.g. FIG. 4b). Further, these openings 2250 may have an opening axis perpendicular to a cross-sectional plane of the opening 200 (see e.g. FIG. 4b).

[0125] FIGS. 4d and 4e schematically depict embodiments wherein the one or more of the one or more heat fins 2100 are hollow (FIG. 4d) and/or perforated (FIG. 4e). The perforations of the heat fins 2100 are indicated with reference 2105. The arrows indicate possible air flows.

[0126] Of course, embodiments may be combined.

[0127] FIG. 5a schematically depicts an embodiment of a luminaire 2 comprising a reflector 160 and the lighting device 150. The reflector 170 partly circumferentially surrounds the lighting device 150. Especially, the reflector 170 is configured to redirect at least part of the device light 151. FIG. 5a schematically depicts a street lighting luminaire 2 Here, by way of example the street lighting luminaire 2 comprises a pole.

[0128] FIG. 5b schematically depicts an embodiment of a luminaire 2 comprising the light generating device 150 as described above. Reference 301 indicates a user interface which may be functionally coupled with the control system (not depicted) comprised by or functionally coupled to the luminaire 2. FIG. 3 also schematically depicts an embodiment of lamp 1 comprising the light generating device 15 as described herein.

[0129] The term “plurality” refers to two or more.

[0130] 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%.

[0131] The term “comprise” also includes embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”.

[0132] 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”.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.

[0137] 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”.

[0138] The article “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.