Osram Opto Semiconductors designed an LED chip used in the Oslux LED, to offer smaller pocket projectors, vehicle headlights, and cell phone camera flashes.

At 150 lux, the LED with the UX:3 chip is 50 lux brighter than its predecessor. As a result, high-quality images can be taken even with very flat cell phones or smartphones.

The chip consists of a metallic lattice and two semiconductor layers. The lattice conducts the current to the upper layer, from where the electrons move to the lower layer and release energy in the form of light. With conventional LEDs, however, the metallic lattice is positioned above both layers and thus diminishes the light. The effect is similar to what would happen if you place a dark cloth over a light bulb. The researchers at Osram therefore moved the lattice all the way to the bottom, enabling them to increase the “wall plug efficiency,” which describes the relationship between the radiant flux of the chip and the electrical power that flows through it.

With its compact dimensions it is perfect for modern low-profile cell phone and smartphone designs.