Abstract
A novel dynamic solid state lighting (SSL) module is
demonstrated, allowing users to program the direction, brightness,
divergence and shape of a projected white light in a variety of
lighting applications. The module is enabled by a fast beamsteering
MEMS mirror with high optical power handling. In order
to produce and project bright white light, the module illuminates a
phosphor target with a high power laser of several Watts. A
projection lens projects the phosphor target into a cone of light of
up to 60°. This light projection is arbitrarily shaped and
dynamically programmable by controlling a MEMS mirror scan
head to address specific portions of the phosphor target. An
adjustable focus lens in the scan head further allows control of
projected beam divergence. Successful prototypes were
demonstrated with both a single 445nm laser diode source (2.5W
laser power) and with a dual (combined) laser diode sources
(5.5W laser power). While the prototypes have to date been limited
by available power of the laser sources, it is estimated that the
novel MEMS mirror scan head design allows >10W (CW)
operation on a 2mm mirror without multilayer dielectric coatings.
The introduction of dynamic laser beam steering is a paradigm
shift toward a new generation of solid state lighting (SSL) with
real-time control of “lighting content”.