Light fixture with edgelit optical element for direct downlighting applications

Abstract

Various light fixtures are provided for mounting within and below suspended grid ceilings incorporating T-bars and ceiling panels. The light fixtures comprise a double or single edgelit planar or wedge shaped optical element that functions simultaneously as an outcoupling TIR light guide and a light scatterer or direct throughput lens. It provides a number of benefits because of its edgelit design including; thin forms and shallow depth, extended emitting area and controlled lighting distributions from one or two light guide faces. Additionally, areas typically dedicated to bezels or edge reflectors can be greatly reduced or eliminated due to decreased hotspotting to provide a fixture face with very high percentage of light emitting area. Embodiments are described for direct, indirect, and direct indirect configurations. The embodiments provide increased light output, uniformity of brightness and color and controlled direct and indirect lighting distributions and with single or dual off axis intensity peaks. Such light distributions are particularly useful in applications such as direct illumination of offices, schools, hospitals, retail or commercial spaces and table tops or work surfaces or indirect illumination of ceilings, wall washing and surface area lighting as well as other lighting applications.