Abstract: A device and method of providing a versatile illuminated panel for walls, product displays, and other surfaces is described. Panels are constructed from a variable number of rectangular illuminated tiles, where the tiles mate edge-to-edge so as to create a nearly seamless visual panel effect. Illumination within each tile is uniform to also create a nearly seamless visual panel effect. End-users may create panels of varying sizes and shapes by using different quantities of a standard tile. The software within the invention automatically determines the number and arrangement of tiles within each assembled panel. Each tile comprises a plurality of illuminators, an optical means to distribute light from the illuminators uniformly across the tile, and at least one communication interface. In one embodiment the tiles are linked into a communications tree-structure; and the location of each tile within the tree constitutes its logical address.

Abstract: A light diffusion device is described that provides uniform light output from a surface. One embodiment uses a short ratio of device height to width of the surface. The diffusion device comprises a reflector with a light entry window, a reflective baffle, a novel shaped reflector, and a diffusion layer for light to exit through. Light travels primarily from the source to the baffle to the reflector, then to the diffusion layer. The reflector has a 3D diffuse reflector surface that is a typically evolved form near its center then smoothly morphs to a non-revolved, preformed shape near its corners. The diffusion device is free of refractive elements. In some embodiments the devices are placed adjacently, in an array, to form a tile or panel of programmable light sources. The baffle and reflector may be manufactured from a flat sheet. Multiple devices may have elements manufactured from monolithic material.

Abstract: A device and method of providing a versatile illuminated panel for walls, product displays, and other surfaces is described. Panels are constructed from a variable number of rectangular illuminated tiles, where the tiles mate edge-to-edge so as to create a nearly seamless visual panel effect. Illumination within each tile is uniform to also create a nearly seamless visual panel effect. End-users may create panels of varying sizes and shapes by using different quantities of a standard tile. The software within the invention automatically determines the number and arrangement of tiles within each assembled panel. Each tile comprises a plurality of illuminators, an optical means to distribute light from the illuminators uniformly across the tile, and at least one communication interface. In one embodiment the tiles are linked into a communications tree-structure; and the location of each tile within the tree constitutes its logical address.