FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to lighting systems and, in particular, to lighting
systems providing an asymmetric distribution of light.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Luminaires for providing general illumination to an area are well known and often
used in outdoor lighting applications including roadway and sidewalk lighting, parking
lot lighting, and residential area lighting. Luminaires having symmetric light distributions
can comprise a light source disposed within an external optic, wherein the external
optic is designed to provide the symmetric light distribution. In one architecture,
for example, a luminaire can comprise a light source disposed within a bell-shaped
external optic, wherein the bell-shaped external optic provides a symmetric distribution
of light to an area.
[0003] In some applications, however, a higher degree of control over light distribution
from a luminaire is desirable. In some roadway lighting applications, for example,
it is desirable to use luminaires having asymmetrical light distributions operable
to provide the roadway and shoulder areas with higher luminous intensity in comparison
with non-roadway areas such as grassy medians. Moreover, in some residential outdoor
area lighting applications, it is desirable to use luminaires having asymmetrical
light distributions operable to mitigate or prevent light trespass.
[0004] Asymmetric light distributions from a luminaire can presently be created through
several avenues. One avenue is to design an external optic operable to create an asymmetric
light distribution when a light source is disposed within the external optic. Design
of an external optic operable to provide an asymmetric light distribution, however,
is often cost prohibitive due to time intensive design processes that can strain engineering
resources. Moreover, the design of the external optic is usually restricted to addressing
a particular lighting need thereby precluding use of the design in a variety of applications.
[0005] Another avenue for producing an asymmetric light distribution from a luminaire is
to externally couple a secondary optic to a primary optic, wherein the secondary optic
is responsible for creating the asymmetric light distribution. A reflective bell-shaped
primary optic, for example, can have a refractive secondary optic coupled thereto,
wherein the reactive secondary optic produces an asymmetric light distribution. Such
an arrangement is illustrated in Figure 1. As displayed in Figure 1, a refractive
secondary optic (102)is coupled to the bottom of a reflective primary optic (100).
Creating an asymmetric light distribution with this architecture has significant disadvantages
as the refractive secondary optic is likely to change the EPA wind loading of the
luminaire while also increasing the weight of the luminaire. Furthermore, achieving
designations such as IES Full-Cutoff becomes very difficult as the refractive secondary
optic can cause uplight from the luminaire.
[0006] An additional avenue for producing an asymmetric light distribution from a luminaire
is to block one or more portions of light from being transanitted by the luminaire.
This avenue is disadvantageous since precluding portions of light from being transmitted
by the luminaire reduces the luminous flux of the luminaire leading to inefficiencies
and poor optical systems.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present invention provides luminaires operable to produce asymmetric light distributions
without the foregoing structural, cost, and efficiency disadvantages. Moreover, the
present invention provides methods of providing an asymmetric light distribution to
an area.
[0008] In one embodiment, a luminaire comprises a light source, an outer optic, and at least
one inner optic at least partially positioned within the outer optic. The outer optic
of the luminaire is adapted to direct a first portion of light received from the light
source and a second portion of light received from the at least one inner optic resulting
in an asymmetric light distribution from the luminaire. In some embodiments, an asymmetric
light distribution comprises a radially asymmetric light distribution.
[0009] Any number of inner optics may be positioned at least partially within the outer
optic. One or a plurality of inner optics may be retained at least partially within
the outer optic via any retention method. In one embodiment one or more inner optics
are at least partially positioned within the outer optic via a mounting bracket. The
mounting bracket, in some embodiments, permits lateral, longitudinal, and/or radial
adjustment of one or more inner optics. In this way, the relative positioning of the
inner and outer optic is easily adjustable to permit tailoring the asymmetric light
distribution of the luminaire. The ability to tailor the asymmetric light distribution
of a luminaire can allow the luminaire to meet the requirements of a variety of applications
without the cost considerations of having to redesign the luminaire for each intended
application.
[0010] These and other embodiments are presented in greater detail in the detailed description
which follows.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0011]
Figure 1 illustrates a prior art luminaire having a secondary refractive optic externally
coupled to a primary reflective optic.
Figure 2 is an elevational cut away view of a luminaire according to one embodiment
of the present invention wherein a plurality of inner optics are disposed within the
outer optic.
Figure 3 is a perspective cut away view of the luminaire of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a bottom plan view of the luminaire of Figure 2.
Figure 5 is an exploded cut away view of the luminaire of Figure 2.
Figure 6 is a bottom plan view of a luminaire according to one embodiment of the present
invention.
Figure 7 is an elevational cut away view of a luminaire illustrating an inner optic
directing light to an outer optic for providing an asymmetric light distribution from
the luminaire according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 is a top cut away view of the luminaire of Figure 7 illustrating an inner
optic directing light to the outer optic for providing an asymmetric light distribution
from the luminaire according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 is an elevational cut away view of a luminaire demonstrating refraction of
light from the light source by an inner optic and subsequent reflection of the light
by the outer optic according to one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] The present invention can be understood more readily by reference to the following
detailed description, examples, and drawings and their previous and following descriptions.
However, apparatus and methods of the present invention are not limited to the specific
embodiments presented in the detailed description, examples, and drawings. It should
be recognized that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles of
the present invention. Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be readily
apparent to those of skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention.
[0013] The present invention provides luminaires operable to produce asymmetric light distributions
without the structural, cost, and efficiency disadvantages associated with prior asymmetric
lighting systems.
[0014] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a luminaire comprising a light
source, an outer optic, and at least one inner optic at least partially positioned
within the outer optic. The outer optic of the luminaire is adapted to direct a first
portion of light received from the light source and a second portion of light received
from the inner optic resulting in an asymmetric light distribution from the luminaire.
[0015] The outer optic works in conjunction with the inner optic to provide an asymmetric
distribution of light from the luminaire. In one embodiment, the outer optic is adapted
to direct light received from the at least one inner optic and light received directly
from the light source in a longitudinal or substantially longitudinal direction. In
directing light in a longitudinal or substantially longitudinal direction, the outer
optic, in some embodiments, directs light out of the luminaire. Moreover, the at least
one inner optic, in some embodiments, is adapted to direct light received from the
light source in a transverse or substantially transverse direction. In directing light
in a transverse or substantially transverse direction, an inner optic is operable
to provide light received from the light source to the outer optic.
[0016] As provided herein, in some embodiments, a plurality of inner optics are at least
partially positioned within the outer optic. In some embodiments, for example, a luminaire
comprises two, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight inner optics.
[0017] In some embodiments of a luminaire of the present invention, the at least one inner
optic is adjustable. In one embodiment, for example, the at least one inner optic
is longitudinally adjustable. In another embodiment, the at least one inner optic
is laterally adjustable. In a further embodiment, the at least one inner optic is
radially adjustable.
[0018] In some embodiments wherein is plurality of inner optics are present, the inner optics
are laterally, longitudinally, and/or radially adjustable independent of one another.
In other embodiments, the plurality of inner optics are not independently adjustable
and adjust in concert with one another. Adjustable inner optics, in some embodiments,
permit tailoring the asymmetric light distribution of luminaires of the present invention.
The ability to tailor the asymmetric light distribution of a luminaire of the present
invention can allow the luminaire to meet the requirements of a variety of applications
without the cost considerations of having to redesign the luminaire for each intended
application.
[0019] In some embodiments, an inner optic has a V-shaped structure wherein the inner optic
is bent at an angle θ. In some embodiments, θ is greater than about 90°. In some embodiments,
θ is less than about 90°. In another embodiment, an inner optic has a curved structure.
In one embodiment, an inner optic comprises an are having a central angle of less
than about 180°, less than about 90° or less than about 60°. In another embodiment,
an inner optic comprises an arc having a central angle greater than 180°.
[0020] Referring now to the figures wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout
the various figures, Figure 2 illustrates an elevational cut away view of a luminaire
according to one embodiment of the present invention wherein a plurality of inner
optics are disposed within an outer optic. As illustrated in a Figure 2, the luminaire
(200) comprises a bell-shaped reflective outer optic (202) having a plurality of reflective
inner optics (204, 206) positioned wíthin the outer optic (202). In the embodiment
illustrated in Figure 2, the inner optics (204, 206) are positioned fully within the
outer optic (202), however they need not be positioned entirely within the outer optic
(202). The reflective inner optics (204, 206) are coupled to a mounting bracket (208)
for orientation around the light source (210). As provided herein, in some embodiments,
the mounting bracket (208) comprises a collar (212) which surrounds the socket (214)
of the light source (210) and secures to the base of the outer optic (202).
[0021] As illustrated in Figure 5, the mounting bracket (208) couples to the outer optic
(202) and the base (224) of the luminaire (200) through a plurality of bolts or sorews
(2Z2). Moreover, each inner optic (204, 206) couples to the mounting bracket (208)
through a bolt or screw (218), The bolt or screw (218) is inserted in one of the longitudinal
settings of the slot (216) in the mounting bracket (208) to place the inner optic
(204, 206) in the proper position for producing a desired asymmetric light distribution
in conjunction with the outer optic (202) as described herein.
[0022] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective cut away view of the luminaire (200). The reflective
inner optics (204, 206) may be longitudinally and/or laterally adjustable on the mounting
bracket (208). As illustrated in Figure 3, the mounting bracket (208) may comprise
vertical slots (216) for coupling each inner optic (204, 206) to the mounting bracket
(208) with a bolt or screw (218). Each vertical slot (216) displayed in Figure 3 has
a plurality of positions or settings for longitudinal adjustment of the inner optics
(204, 206). Moreover, in some embodiments, the mounting bracket (208) comprises lateral
slots (not shown) comprising a plurality of positions or settings for lateral adjustment
of the inner optics (204, 206).
[0023] In addition to facilitaing longitudinal and/or lateral adjustment of the inner optics
(204, 206), the mounting bracket (208) is operable to rotate. The collar (212) of
the mounting bracket (208), for example, can comprise radial slots (220) permitting
rotation of the mounting bracket (208). In one embodiment, bolts or screws (222) coupling
the collar (212) to the base of the outer optic (202) and the base (224) of the luminaire
(200) can be loosened and the mounting bracket (208) rotated to a desired position,
the radial slots passing around the loosened bolts or screws (222) during rotation.
After the desired position is achieved, the bolts or screws (222) are tightened to
secure the collar (212).
[0024] In an alternative embodiment, the bolts or screws (222) can be removed and the mounting
bracket (208) rotated to a new position and the bolts or screws (222) reinserted into
a new position. In order to facilitate such an embodiment, the base of the outer optic
(202) and the base (224) of the luminaire can have a plurality of bolt or screw (222)
insertion points. As provided herein, rotation of the collar (212) results in radial
adjustment of the inner optics (204, 206).
[0025] While the inner optics may be laterally, longitudinally, and/or radially adjustable
independent of one another, they do not need to be independently adjustable but rather
can adjust in concert with one another. Adjustable inner optics, while not required,
permit tailoring the asymmetric light distribution of luminaires. The ability to tailor
the asymmetric light distribution of a luminaire can allow the luminaire to meet the
requirements of a variety of applications without the cost considerations of having
to redesign the luminaire for each intended application.
[0026] While use of mechanical fasteners are disclosed for retaining the inner optics (204,
206) in position relative to the outer optic (202), the invention is not so limited.
Rather, any retention method may be used, including, but not limited to, use of mechanical
fasteners, interference fit, mechanical interlock, etc. Moreover, while the figures
illustrate two inner optics (204, 206), any number of inner optics may be provided,
depending on the desired light distribution. Furthermore, the geometry of the inner
optics (204, 206) can be, but need not be, identical.
[0027] Figure 4 displays a bottom plan view of the luminaire (200) according to one embodiment
of the present invention. The inner optics (204, 206) positioned within the outer
optic (202) surround up to about 180° of the circumference of the light source (210).
In some embodiments, one or a plurality of inner optics surround less than about 180°
of the circumference of the light source. In other embodiment, one or a plurality
of inner optics surround less than about 120° or less than about 90° of the circumference
of the light source. In another embodiment, one or a plurality of inner optics surround
less than about 60° or less than about 30° of the circumference of the light source.
In a further embodiment one or a plurality of inner optics surround greater than about
180° of the circumference of the light source.
[0028] Moreover, the inner optics (204, 206) demonstrate one embodiment of a V-shaped structure,
bent at an angle θ as provided herein. While V-shaped inner optics are illustrated
in Figure 4, inner optics having any shape tailored to reflect or refract light as
desired are contemplated by the present invention. For example, linear or curved inner
optics may be suitable in some applications. In one embodiment, an inner optic comprises
an arc having a central angle of less than about 180°, less than about 90° or less
than about 60°. In another embodiment, an inner optic comprises an are having a central
angle greater than 180°.
[0029] An inner optic, in some embodiments, comprises a reflector, refractor, or combinations
thereof. In some embodiments wherein a plurality of inner optics are present, the
inner optics are constructed independently of one another. In one embodiment, for
example, a first inner optic is a reflector and a second inner optic is a refractor.
In another embodiment a first inner optic is a reflector and a second inner optic
is a reflector. Embodiments of the present invention contemplate any combination of
reflector and refractor inner optics operable to achieve asymmetric light distributions
in conjunction with the outer optic.
[0030] An outer optic of a luminaire of the present invention can comprise a reflector,
a refractor, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, wherein the outer optic
is a reflector, the luminaire does not produce any significant uplighting and can
achieve an IES Full-Cutoff designation. While the outer optic (202) illustrated in
the figures is bell-shaped, it can be of any desired shape including, but not limited
to, parabolic, spherical, or eliptical.
[0031] Figure 6 illustrates an outer optic (202) having an interior surface farmed of a
phirality of concave panels (226). The continuous reflective surface comprising a
plurality of concave panels (226) has been partially cut away to reveal the shell
(228) of the outer optic (202) underlying the plurality of concave panels (226). In
some embodiments, each of the plurality of concave panels (226) has a wedge shape.
[0032] In some embodiments and as illustrated in Figures 1-6, a luminaire of the present
invention has an open design wherein a protective lens does not enclose or seal the
interior of the outer optic from the outside or ambient environment. An open, flow
through design can assist in precluding or inhibiting the build up of dirt within
the luminaire thereby permitting the luminaire to demonstrate an advantageous luminaire
dirt depreciation factor (LDD). In other embodiments, a luminaire of the present invention
comprises a protective lens which encloses or seals the interior of the outer optic
from the outside environment.
[0033] In some embodiments, wherein the luminaire has an open design, the outer optic and/or
at least one inner optic comprise a radiation transmissive protective covering. In
one embodiment, for example, a reflective outer optic comprise a radiation transmissive
protective covering over the interior reflective surface of the outer optic. In some
embodiments described herein, the interior reflective surface comprises specular enhanced
aluminum panels hermetically sealed between the shell of the outer optic and a protective
cover such glass, including but not limited to, borosilicate glass. In some embodiments,
protective constructions for interior reflective surfaces of the outer optic comprise
those provided in United States Patent Application Serial Number
11/623,487 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0034] Moreover, in another embodiment, a reflective inner optic comprises a protective
covering over the reflective surface of the inner optic. Protective coverings for
inner and outer optics of the present invention can comprise any material that does
not substantially impair the ability of the inner and outer optics to perform their
intended functions. In some embodiments, a protective covering comprises glass or
polymeric materials. In one embodiment, a glass suitable for a protective covering
comprises borosilicate glass.
[0035] Reflective inner and outer optics of the present invention can comprise my reflective
material known to those of skill in the art as being suitable for use in reflective
optics. In one embodiment, a reflective material for use in inner and outer optics
of the present invention comprises polished metals such as, but not limited to, polished
aluminum. In some embodiments a reflective material for use in inner and outer optics
of the present invention comprises MIRO 4. In some embodiments, the reflectivity of
inner and outer optics can be further enhanced by the application of reflective coatings,
including reflective paints, or other reflective compositions.
[0036] Moreover, refractive inner and outer optics of the present invention can comprise
any refractive material suitable for directing light in a manner consistent with embodiments
described herein. In some embodiments, a refractive optic comprises a biconvex lens,
a planoconvex lens, a planocoacave lens, or a biconcave lens. In other embodiments,
a refractive optic comprises a positive meniscus lens or a negative meniscus lens.
In some embodiments, a refractive optic comprises one or a plurality of prismatic
structures. In one embodiment, a prismatic structure comprises Fresnel prisms. In
some embodiments, one or a plurality of prismatic structures are present on at least
one surface of an inner and/or outer optic.
[0037] Additionally, luminaires of the present contemplate any suitable light source known
to one of skill in the art. In some embodiments, a light source comprises a HID lamp
including metal halide lamps, high pressure sodium lamps, and mercury vapor lamps,
In some embodiments, a HID lamp has any wattage up to 1000W. In other embodiments,
a HID lamp has a wattage greater than 1000W. In another embodiment, a light source
comprises a compact fluorescent lamp. In some embodiments, a compact fluorescent lamp
has a wattage of 32W, 42W or 57W.
[0038] Referring once again to the figures, Figure 7 is an elevational cut away view of
the luminaire (200) illustrating an inner optic (204) directing light to the outer
optic (202) for providing an asymmetric light distribution from the luminaire (200)
according to one embodiment of the present invention. For purposes of clarity in Figures
7 and 8, light received and directed by the inner optic (206) is not illustrated.
Moreover, light received directly from the light source (210) by the outer optic (202)
and subsequently directed by the outer optic (202) is also not shown.
[0039] As illustrated in Figure 7, the inner optic (204) directs light from the light source
(210) to the outer optic (202) for reflection out of the luminaire. In order to work
in conjunction with the outer optic (202) to provide an asymmetric light distribution,
the inner optic, in some embodiments, is adapted to direct light from the light source
(210) in a transverse or substantially transverse direction. Moreover, the outer optic
(202) is adapted to direct light received from the inner optic (204) and light received
directly from the light source (210) (not shown) in a longitudinal or substantially
direction out of the luminaire (200).
[0040] Figure 8 is a top cut away view of the luminaire (200) of Figure 7 and illustrates
inner optic (204) directing light to the outer optic (202) for providing an asymmetric
light distribution from the luminaire (200) according to one embodiment of the present
invention. In providing light from the light source to the outer optic, in some embodiments,
the inner optic does not direct light back through the light source. In one embodiment,
for example, the at least one inner optic does not direct light back through the are
tube of a high intensity discharge (HID) lamp, such as a metal halide lamp, high pressure
sodium (HPS) lamp, or a mercury vapor lamp. Directing light back through the are tube
of a HPS lamp with an inner optic, for example, can lead to voltage rises that degrade
lamp Lifetime, Thus, in some embodiments, such as the ones shown in Figures 7 and
8, an inner optic (204) does not direct light from the light source (210) back through
the arc tube (226) of the light source (210). A portion of light directed from the
inner optic (204) can, but does not have to, pass through the envelope of the light
source (210), as shown in Figure 8.
[0041] As provided herein, in some embodiments, an inner optic comprises a continuous reflective
surface. In some embodiments, the reflective surface of an inner optic has one or
more creases or bends operable to reduce or preclude light normal to the inner optic
from being directed back through the arc tube of a light source comprising a HID lamp.
In some embodiments, for example, the reflective surface of an inner optic have a
V-shaped structure being bent at and angle θ as described herein.
[0042] Figure 9 is an elevational out away view of a luminaire (900) demonstrating refraction
of light from the light source (910) by a refractive inner optic (904) and subsequent
reflection of the light by the outer optic (902) to provide an asymmetric light distribution
according to one embodiment of the present invention. For purposed of clarity, light
refracted by inner optic (906) is not shown. Moreover, light received directly from
the light source (910) by the other optic (902) and subsequently directed by the outer
optic (902) is also not shown.
[0043] As demonstrated in Figures 7 through 9, luminaires, according to some embodiments
of the present invention, provide an asymmetric light distribution without the use
of shields or other light blocking apparatus. As a result, luminaires of the present
invention are operable to overcome the lighting inefficiencies of prior lighting systems
which use shields to produce an asymmetric distribution of light.
[0044] In addition to providing luminaires, the present invention also provides methods
of lighting a surface, In one embodiment, a method of lighting a surface comprises
providing a luminaire comprising a light source, an outer optic, and at least one
inner optic at least partially positioned within the outer optic, directing to the
surface a first portion of light from the light source with the outer optic, and directing
to the surface a second portion of light from the light source with the inner optic
and the outer optic, wherein at least one of the first portion of directed light and
the second portion of directed light is asymmetrically distributed over the surface.
In some embodiments, a surface comprises a roadway, sidewalk, parking lot, athletic
field or residential area. In another embodiment, a surface comprises an indoor or
outdoor work area.
[0045] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of changing the asymmetric
light distribution of a luminaire on a surface. In one embodiment, a method of changing
the asymmetric light distribution of a luminaire on a surface comprises providing
a luminaire comprising a light source, an outer optic, and at least one inner optic
at least partially positioned within the outer optic, adjusting the at least one inner
optic, directing to the surface a first portion of light from the light source with
the outer optic, and directing to the surface a second portion of light from the light
source with the inner optic and the outer optic, wherein at least one on the first
portion of directed light and the second portion of directed light is asymmetrically
distributed over the surface.
[0046] In some embodiments, adjusting the at least one inner optic comprises longitudinally
adjusting the inner optic. In another embodiment, adjusting the at least one inner
optic comprises laterally adjusting the inner optic. In a further embodiment, adjusting
the at least one inner optic comprises radially adjusting the inner optic. In one
embodiment, adjusting the at least one inner optic comprises a combination of longitudinal,
lateral, and or radial adjustment.
[0047] Luminaires according to embodiments of the present invention can be used in a variety
of applications. In some embodiments, luminaires of the present invention can be used
in outdoor lighting applications, including roadway, parking lot, and sidewalk applications
as well as athletic field and residential area applications. In other embodiments,
luminaires of the present invention can be used in indoor lighting applications, including
warehouse lighting and workspace lighting applications.
[0048] Various embodiments of the invention have been described in fulfillment of the various
objectives of the invention. It should be recognized that these embodiments are merely
illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and
adaptations thereof will be readily apparemt to those of skill in the art without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0049] That which claimed is:
1. A luminaire comprising:
a light source;
an outer optic;
and at least one inner optic at least partially positioned within the outer optic,
the outer optic adapted to direct a first portion of light received from the light
source and adapted to direct a second portion of light received from the inner optic
resulting in an asymmetric light distribution from the luminaire.
2. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner optic is positioned between
the light source and the outer optic.
3. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner optic comprises a reflector,
refractor, or combination thereof.
4. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the outer optic comprises a reflector, refractor,
for combination thereof.
5. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the outer optic comprises a plurality of concave
panels.
6. The luminaire system of claim 1, wherein the light source is positioned within the
outer optic.
7. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner optic comprises a plurality
of inner optics.
8. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner optic is adapted to direct
light from the light source in a substantially transverse direction.
9. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the outer optic is adapted to direct the first
portion of light received from the light source and the second portion of light received
from the at least one inner optic out of the luminaire.
10. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner optic is positioned partially
outside of the outer optic.
11. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the at least one inner optic is adjustable.
12. The luminaire of claim 11, wherein the at least one inner optic is adjustable longitudinally,
laterally, or radially.
13. The luminaire of claim 1, wherein the luminaire is open to the ambient environment.
14. A luminaire comprising:
a light source;
an cuter optic; and
a plurality of inner optics at least partially positioned within the outer optic,
the outer optic adapted to direct a first portion of light received from the light
source and adapted to direct a second portion of light received from the plurality
of inner optics resulting in an asymmetric light distribution from the luminaire.
15. The lumimaire of claim 14, wherein the plurality of inner optics are positioned between
the light source and the outer optic.
16. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein the plurality of inner optics are adapted to direct
light from the light source in a substantially transverse direction.
17. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein the outer optic is adapted to direct the first
portion of light received from the light source and the second portion of light received
from the plurality of inner Optics in a substantially longitudinal direction.
19. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein the plurality of inner optics surround less than
about 180° of the circumference of the light source.
20. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein the plurality of inner optics surround less than
about 90° of the circumference of the light source.
21. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein the plurality of inner optics are reflectors.
22. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein at least one of the plurality of inner optics
is adjustable.
23. The luminaire of claim 22, wherein the at least one adjustable inner optic is at
least one of longitudinally adjustable, laterally adjustable, or radially adjustable.
24. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein at least one of the plurality of inner optics
is bent at an angle θ.
25. The luminaire of claim 24, where the angle θ is greater than about 90°.
26. The luminaire of claim 14, wherein the outer optic comprises a plurality of reflective
concave panels.
27. A method of lighting a surface comprising:
providing a luminaire comprising a light source, an outer optic, and at least one
inner optic at least partially disposed within the outer optic;
directing to the surface a first portion of light from the light source with the outer
optic; and
directing to the surface a second porion of light from the light source with the inner
optic and the outer optic,
wherein at least one of the first portion of directed light and the second portion
of directed light is asymmetrically distributed over the surface.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the surface comprises a roadway.
29. A method of changing The asymmetric light distribution of a luminaire comprising:
providing a luminaire comprising a light source, an outer optic, and at least one
inner optic at least partially positioned within the outer optic;
adjusting the at least one inner optic;
directing to the surface a first portion of light from the light source with the outer
optic; and
directing to the surface a second portion of light from the light source with the
inner optic and the outer optic,
wherein at least one of the first portion of directed light and the second portion
of directed light is asymmetrically distributed over the surface.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein adjusting comprises longitudinally adjusting, laterally
adjusting, radially adjusting, of a combination thereof.