The modules will integrate thermal management, optical control and high reliability drive electronics to maximise the benefits of LED technology in existing lighting applications such as architectural, road way and industrial lighting.
Welcoming the new partnership, Science and Innovation Minister, Malcolm Wicks said: "The UK has a proud history of innovation in science and technology. We believe that we must work with industry to develop the marketable products and services of tomorrow, so that we can maintain our position as a leading global economy. That's why we're supporting this project. It provides a great opportunity to harness the UK's world-class expertise and use it to help boost our economy."
Gordon Routledge, Dialight Lumidrives managing director says: "Although many companies have made demonstrators of LED lighting in existing lighting applications, very little work has been completed into the associated technologies beyond LEDs at the component level. Significant improvements in cost, efficiency and reliability are therefore essential.
"The concept may sound trivial, but our five year's experience in the LED lighting industry shows that the thermal requirements of LED devices represent the biggest challenge in most applications for general lighting. Leading the way in this field represents an excellent opportunity for the already successful UK lighting industry.
(Jim Evans)