An LED array has a number of small Chip-on-Board (COB) LEDs positioned into a clear pattern or array. There are a number of advantages associated with this method.
For example, the heat sink requirements of the luminaire are reduced as the LEDs are spaced more widely and are also of a lower wattage, allowing a slimmer flatter luminaire design.
Also, the individual LEDs are smaller so that the optical control is improved, allowing tighter narrower beam optics and the possibility of using lenses in combination with reflectors.
In addition, when working with beam-spreading optics and wall-washing panels it is possible to achieve a wider spread of projected light onto the wall and an even illuminance over a large area. The ability to organise the arrays into different shapes also presents the possibility to create additional visual interest or to meet specific lighting requirements.
Further benefits are realised when working with diffuse panels and frosted luminaire optics, as the separated configuration of the light source leads to a more even distribution of light across the surface of the luminaire.
There are also some disadvantages with this approach, the obvious one being that the combined luminaire optics will occupy a much larger area and this will impose some restrictions on the design of the luminaire.