Lead Performer: Glint Photonics Inc. – Burlingame, CA
September 16, 2021
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Lead Performer: Glint Photonics Inc. – Burlingame, CA
Partner: None
DOE Total Funding: $1,150,000
Project Term: August 22, 2022 – August 21, 2024
Funding Type: SBIR
PROJECT OBJECTIVE
New functionalities such as lossless beam width adjustment, beam shaping, and adjustment of beam steering independent of fixture pointing can be added to solid-state lighting fixtures by incorporating opto-mechanical motion control mechanisms into the fixture. Currently such mechanisms are too expensive and complex to be broadly adopted by the industry. To address this, Glint will design lighting specific kinematics using elastic joints that flex instead of pivot or slide. Such mechanisms can dramatically reduce the cost, part count, and assembly required to add new functionality to luminaires and improve light application efficiency. The project integrates compliant mechanism design with advanced luminaire optical architectures and cutting-edge additive manufacturing.
Glint will create a library of compliant kinematics systems for lighting and then conduct a manufacturing case study to determine appropriate production materials and processes, comparing traditional manufacturing with additive manufacturing approaches. Two of the mechanism designs will be designed into proof-of-concept product platforms, fabricated into functional prototypes, and characterized to validate the cost and performance advantages of the compliant mechanisms.
PROJECT IMPACT
The overall goal of this project is to create lighting products that will save energy, reduce waste, and improve occupant well-being. The proposed kinematic mechanisms have the potential to provide superior lighting quality and performance at competitive prices. With this approach, energy can be saved by targeting light where it is needed and reducing or eliminating glare, over-lighting, and under-lighting.
CONTACTS
DOE Technology Manager: Wyatt Merrill
Lead Performer: Christopher Gladden, Glint Photonics Inc.