WO2012075523A1

WO2012075523A1 - Illumination device

Info

Publication number: WO2012075523A1
Application number: PCT/AU2011/001576
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark Tester; Ken Tissen; Peter Rosenthall; Dawid Verwey; Stanislaw Kabacinski; Anthony Lele; Benjamin Mottrom
Original assignee: Bioconst Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2010-12-07
Filing date: 2011-12-07
Publication date: 2012-06-14

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an illumination device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength. The device comprises one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

Description

ILLUMINATION DEVICE

PRIORITY CLAIM

[001] This application claims priority to Australian provisional patent application 2010905383, filed 7 December 2010, and to Australian provisional patent application 2011904136, filed 7 October 2011, the contents of which are both hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

[002] The present disclosure relates to an illumination device and a method for illuminating an object.

BACKGROUND

[003] In many situations, the aesthetic properties of a product are a significant component of its commercial success. Indeed, many products have no other substantial function other than to be aesthetically appealing. Ornamental organisms, such as flowers and plants, are an example of a product that relies heavily on its aesthetic qualities.

[004] In the case of ornamental organisms such as flowers and plants, the worldwide market is considerable. For example, the worldwide production value of flowers and floricultural plants is estimated to be in the order of 70 billion USD. The market for such ornamental organisms is highly competitive.

[005] Fluorescent ornamental organisms, such as ornamental plants, have the potential to be highly desirable in the marketplace. However, in order to observe the fluorescence of a fluorescent organism, the organism needs to be exposed to light of a wavelength which is suitable to excite a fluorophore associated with the organism. Moreover, in some cases, the light of the appropriate excitation wavelength needs to be delivered to appropriate parts of the organism where it can access the fluorophore and thus cause fluorescence. For example, in the case of many ornamental plants, a UV- absorbing coating is present on the upper sides of the flowers and/or leaves, thus rendering top-illumination unsuitable for the excitation of a fluorophore in the plant, and/or there may be a desire to only illuminate certain parts of an organism, such as illuminating the flowers of a plant while reducing illumination to other parts of the plant.

[006] In addition, in some circumstances the light suitable to excite the fluorescent organism may need to be delivered in a manner that reflects the proposed usage of the organism. For example, the light may need to be delivered constantly for only a limited period of time, reflecting the period of time that the ornamental organism is visualised. Cut flowers and cut plants, for example, typically have a limited decorative lifespan before the flowers and/or plant begin to wilt and lose their decorative appeal. In addition, in some circumstances the light suitable to excite the fluorescent organism may need to be delivered with an intensity and/or a wavelength that reflects the conditions under which the fluorescence is viewed.

[007] Aside from ornamental organisms, some decorative products also require illumination to excite a fluorophore associated with the product so as to improve the decorative appeal of the product. Examples of such products include novelty items and products such as paints which are applied to products. In these circumstances, the light may need to be delivered to an appropriate part of an object, and/or with an intensity and/or a wavelength that reflects the conditions under which the fluorescence is to be viewed.

[008] Accordingly, there is a need for devices and methods to illuminate objects, to address one or more problems in the art and/or to provide one or more advantages.

[009] Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any country. SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for illuminating objects.

[0011] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to devices for illuminating an object, methods for illuminating objects and combination products.

[0012] Certain embodiments provide an illumination device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[0013] Certain embodiments provide a method of illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the method comprising illuminating the object with an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[0014] Certain embodiments provide a combination product, the combination product comprising the following components: an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at an excitation wavelength; and a fluorophore.

[0015] Certain embodiments provide a combination product, the combination product comprising the following components: an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at an excitation wavelength; and all or part of an object capable of fluorescing upon exposure to light emitted from the one or more emitters.

[0016] Certain embodiments provide a kit comprising: an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at an excitation wavelength; and optionally a fluorophore and/or instructions for causing all or part of an object to fluoresce upon exposure to light emitted from the illumination device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0017] Certain embodiments are illustrated by the following figures. It is to be understood that the following description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting with respect to the description.

[0018] Figure 1 shows a view of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2 shows a partial cross sectional representation of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 3 shows a partial cross sectional representation of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a distal light source transmits light to the stalks via a light conductor.

[0021] Figure 4 shows a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure used in conjunction with a plant pot.

[0022] Figure 5 shows a view of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a device comprising a single projection element with a single light emitter is used to illuminate flowers held in a vase.

[0023] Figure 6 shows a view of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a device comprising a plurality of projection elements, each with a single light emitter, is used to illuminate flowers held in a vase.

[0024] Figure 7 shows a view of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a device comprising three projecting elements, each with a single light emitter, is used to illuminate flowers held in a vase.

[0025] Figure 8 shows a view of a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a device comprising two projection elements attached directly to a base is used to illuminate flowers held in a corsage.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present disclosure relates to the illumination of objects. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a device for illuminating an object. Certain other embodiments are directed to methods, combination products and/or kits for illuminating objects.

[0027] Certain disclosed embodiments provide devices, methods, combination products and/or kits for illuminating an object that have one or more combinations of advantages. For example, some of the advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein include one or more of the following: providing an improved product for illuminating objects, such as ornamental organisms; providing an improved system to illuminate objects; providing enhanced desirability of a commercial product incorporating a fluorophore and/or a fluorescent object; providing a product for illuminating an object with improved flexibility in illumination; providing a product for illumination an object with improved illumination and/or operating characteristics; and providing methods, kits and combination products which assist in the ease of illuminating an object. Other advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure are also disclosed herein.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the device is an integral device. In certain embodiments the device is a non - integral device. In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more separate components. In certain embodiments, the one or more separate components are connected to one or more other separate components. In certain embodiments, the one or more separate components are fixedly connected to one or more other separate components. In certain embodiments, the one or more separate components are non-fixedly connected to one or more other separate components. In certain embodiments, the one or more separate components are rigidly connected to one or more other separate components. In certain embodiments, the one or more separate components are non-rigidly connected to one or more other separate components.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the device comprises a corsage, a vase or a lapel flower. Certain embodiments provide a corsage comprising a device as described herein. Certain embodiments provide a vase comprising a device as described herein. Certain embodiments provide a lapel flower comprising a device as described herein.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the object comprises an organism and/or a part of an organism. In certain embodiments, the object comprises an ornamental organism and/or part of an ornamental organism. In certain embodiments, the object comprises all or part of one or more plants. In certain embodiments, the object comprises all or part of one or more flowers.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the object comprises an article or product comprising a fluorophore. In certain embodiments, the object comprises an article or product incorporating a fluorophore, and/or an article or product comprising a fluorophore applied to all or part of its external surface. Examples include a novelty product comprising a fluorophore, and/or a product with a fluorophore painted and/or sprayed onto the surface of the product. Typically, a fluorophore is associated with the object to be illuminated. As such, typically the device does not comprise a fluorophore or a phosphor.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the object comprises a fluorescent organism, such as a transgenic plant or flower. In certain embodiments, the object comprises an organism with a fluorophore applied to all or part of an external surface of the organism. For example, the object may be one or more flowers with a fluorophore spayed and/or painted onto all or part of the flowers, or a human with a fluorescent paint and/or spray applied to all or part of the external surface, such as the hair.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the organism is one or more ornamental organisms. In certain embodiments, the ornamental organism comprises one or more plants. Other types of ornamental organisms are also contemplated, such as ornamental fungi. The term "ornamental" refers to an organism that has one or more aesthetic characteristics.

[0034] The term "plant" includes vascular angiosperm and gymnosperm plants; nonvascular or bryophyte plants such as mosses, liverworts and hornworts; algae including terrestrial, aquatic and marine algae; and living whole plants, as well as cut, harvested or dried plant material such as cut or harvested foliage, flowers, seeds or other plant parts.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the organism comprises one or more flowers, such as one or more cut flowers. In certain embodiments, the organism comprises one or more plants, such as one or more plants with one or more variegated leaves.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the ornamental organism comprises one or more flowers. In certain embodiments, the ornamental organism comprises one or more cut flowers. For example, in certain embodiments the device is used to illuminate one or more plants and/or one or more flowers in an arrangement, such as a vase. In certain embodiments, there is provided an arrangement of one or more flowers comprising the device described herein. In certain embodiments there is provided a vase comprising a device as described herein. In certain embodiments, the device is used to illuminate one or more flowers in a corsage or a bouquet. In certain embodiments, there is provided a corsage comprising the device as described herein. In certain embodiments, the device is used to illuminate one or more flowers in a lapel flower or a lapel floral arrangement. In certain embodiments there is provided a lapel flower or lapel floral arrangement comprising the device as described herein. [0037] In certain embodiments, the plant comprises one or more plants selected from the list consisting of: rose (Rosa X hybrida), chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora), lily (Lilium spp.), gerbera (Gerbera X hybrida), tulip (Tuilpa sp.), carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus), alstromeria (Alstromeria sp.), gladiolus (Gladiolus spp.), anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum), Antirrhinum spp. (sometimes referred to as snapdragons), gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata, Gypsophila elegans), orchids such as Phalaenopsis, Cymbidium and Dendrobium spp, and Paphiopedilum (lady's slipper) orchid, cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum), azalea (Rhododendron sp.), African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha), petunia (Petunia X hybrida), impatiens (Impatiens sp.), begonia (Begonia sp.), Physalis, geranium (Pelargonium sp.), pansy (Viola sp.), marigold (Tagetes erecta), Dracaena, Ficus, Spathiphyllum, Peperomia, Sanseveria and a number of fern, cacti, and palm species. In certain embodiments, the plant comprises one or more flowers from the aforementioned plants.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the organism is selected from one or more of one or more roses, one or more orchids, one or more carnations, one or more lilies, one or more lisianthus, one or more jasmine, one or more baby's breath (gypsophila), one or more chrysanthemum, one or more white poppies, one or more bellflowers, one or more fuchsia, one or more gerberas, and one or more daisies. The aforementioned flowers are particularly suitable for illumination in a corsage, a lapel flower or a vase.

[0039] In certain embodiments, the organism is a single flower, such a rose. In certain embodiments, the organism is collection of flowers, such as a bouquet of flowers. In certain embodiments, the plants have flowers with one or more white flowers, one or more pink flowers, one or more red flowers, one or more purple flowers, one or more blue flowers, one or more yellow flowers, or combinations of these colours. Flowers with other colours of flowers, or combinations of colours, are contemplated. In certain embodiments, the flowers comprise petals of a lighter hue.

[0040] Certain embodiments provide an arrangement of one or more plants and/or one or more flowers comprising the device as described herein.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the object is a human. In certain embodiments, the object is an article of clothing or an accessory, For example, the device may comprises a headpiece or a tiara for illuminating hair to which has been applied a fluorophore. Certain embodiments provide a headpiece comprising the device as described herein.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the object comprises a human with a fluorophore applied to part of the human, such as all or part of the hair.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the device is used to illuminate an object in an ambient lighting environment of 1000 Lux or less, 500 Lux or less, 350 Lux or less, 100 Lux or less, 10 Lux or less, or 1 Lux or less. In certain embodiments, the device is used to illuminate an object in an ambient lighting environment of 1000 Lux or greater, 500 Lux or greater, 350 Lux or greater, 100 Lux or greater, 10 Lux or greater, 1 Lux or greater. In certain embodiments, the device is used to illuminate an object in an ambient lighting environment in the range of 1 to 1000 Lux, 1 to 500 Lux, 1 to 350 Lux, 1 to 100 Lux, 1 to 10 Lux, 10 to 1000 Lux, 10 to 500 Lux, 10 to 350 Lux, 10 to 100 Lux, 100 to 1000 Lux, 100 to 500 Lux, or 100 to 350 Lux.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 750 nm or less, 620 nm or less, 590 nm or less, 570 nm or less, 500 nm or less, 495 nm or less, 490nm or less, 480nm or less, 475 nm or less, 470nm or less, 460nm or less, 450nm or less, 440nm or less, 430nm or less, 420nm or less, 410nm or less, 400nm or less, 390nm or less, 380nm or less, 370nm or less, 360 nm or less, or 350 nm or less. In certain embodiments, the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 330-380 nm, 330-390 nm, 330-400 nm, 330-410 nm, 330-420 nm, 330-430 nm, 330-440 nm, 330- 450, 330-380 nm, 340-380 nm, 340-390 nm, 340-400 nm, 340-410 nm, 340-420 nm, 340-430 nm, 340-440 nm, 340-450, 350-380 nm, 350-390 nm, 350-400 nm, 350-410 nm, 350-420 nm, 350-430 nm, 350-440 nm, or 350-450 nm. In certain embodiments, the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 330-390 nm, 340-380 nm, 330-390 nm, or 350-370 nm. In certain embodiments, the light source emits light comprising one or more of red light (620-750 nm), orange light (590-620 nm), yellow light (570-590 nm), green light (495-570 nm), cyan light (476-495 nm), blue light (450- 475 nm), violet light (380-450 nm), ultraviolet A (UVA; 315-400) or near ultraviolet light (300-400 nm). In certain embodiments, the light source emits light comprising violet light and/or at UVA light. [0045] In certain embodiments, the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 500 nm or less. In certain embodiments, the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 400 nm or less.

[0046] In certain embodiments, the light source has an emission wavelength in the range from 360 nm-470 nm. In certain embodiments, the light source has a peak wavelength of approximately 375-380 nm. In certain embodiments, a peak wave of less than 400 nm provides one or more advantages, including for example, more effective illumination of the organism at this wavelength, as this balances high levels of excitation and low levels of illumination in the visible wavelengths, maximising the effectiveness of the fluorescence for an observer.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), one or more incandescent light sources, one or more fluorescent light sources, one or more discharge lamps, one or more laser light sources, or one or more laser diode light sources. Other types of light source are contemplated that are able to produce light at the excitation wavelength. In certain embodiments, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes, as described herein. In certain embodiments, the light source and/or the light emitters do not comprise a phosphor.

[0048] The term "excitation wavelength" refers to light having a wavelength that falls within the excitation spectrum of one of more fluorophores associated with the object to be illuminated.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is 750 nm or less, 620 nm or less, 590 nm or less, 570 nm or less, 500nm or less, 495 nm or less, 490nm or less, 480nm or less, 475 nm or less, 470nm or less, 460nm or less, 450nm or less, 440nm or less, 430nm or less, 420nm or less, 410nm or less, 400nm or less, 390nm or less, 380nm or less, or 370nm or less. In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is a wavelength in the ultraviolet range or near ultraviolet range. In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is 400 nm or less.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is about 388nm, about 375nm or about 365nm. Reference herein to a wavelength "about" a particular value may encompass wavelengths of +10%, +5%, +4%, +3%, ±2% or +1% of the defined wavelength.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is a wavelength in the range of red light (620-750 nm), orange light (590-620 nm), yellow light (570-590 nm), green light (495-570 nm), cyan light (476-495 nm), blue light (450-475 nm), violet light (380- 450 nm), ultraviolet A (UVA; 315-400), near ultraviolet light (300-400 nm), or 360nm- 470 nm.

[0052] In certain embodiments, the object comprises one or more fluorophores and/or one or more fluorescent agents that have been applied externally to the organism. For example, one or more fluorophores may be applied to all or part of one or more external surfaces of an organism. Examples of external application include spraying, painting, drawing, printing and immersion.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the object comprises one or more flowers that have been sprayed and/or painted with a fluorophore. In certain embodiments, the object is one or more flowers comprising an externally-applied fluorophore. Fluorophores and fluorescent agents are known and may be obtained commercially or synthesized.

[0054] Examples of fluorophores and fluorescent agents are as described herein. Examples of small molecule based fluorophores include xanthene derivatives, such as fluorescein, rhodamine, Oregon green, eosin, Texas red, and Cal Fluor dyes; cyanine derivatives such as cyanine, indocarbocyanine, oxacarbocyanine, thiacarbocyanine, merocyanine, and Quasar dyes; naphthalene derivatives; coumarin derivatives; oxadiazole derivatives such as pyridyloxazole, nitrobenzoxadiazole and benzoxadiazole; pyrene derivatives such as cascade blue; oxazine derivatives such as Nile red, Nile blue, cresyl violet, oxazine 170; acridine derivatives such as proflavin, acridine orange, acridine yellow; arylmethine derivatives such as auramine, crystal violet, malachite green; and tetrapyrrole derivatives such as porphin, phtalocyanine, and bilirubin.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the object comprises an organism comprising one or more fluorophores that have been introduced into the organism. For example, one or more fluorophores may be taken up by an organism, such as by transpiration. In certain embodiments, the organism comprises one or more flowers comprising a fluorophore taken up by transpiration. For example, the ends of one or more cut flower stems may be immersed in a solution comprising a fluorophore.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the object comprises a fluorophore, such as a product manufactured to incorporate a fluorophore or an organism comprising one or more cells expressing a fluorescent molecule. For example, the organism may be a transgenic organism which expresses a fluorescent molecule in one or more cells. In certain embodiments, the organism comprises one or more transgenic plants or flowers that express a fluorescent molecule in one or more cells. In certain embodiments, the organism comprises one or more transgenic plants or flowers that express a fluorescent molecule in one or more petal cells.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the one or more fluorophores are endogenous fluorophores. In certain embodiments, the one or more fluorophores are exogenous fluorophores. In certain embodiments, the one or more fluorophores are one or more endogenous fluorophores and one or more exogenous fluorophores. The fluorophores may have intrinsic fluorescent activity and/or be activated to fluoresce upon treatment.

[0058] Examples of fluorophores comprise fluorescent molecules, dyes or compounds (such as fluorescein and rhodamine) and fluorescent proteins or polypeptides (such as green fluorescent protein). Fluorophores, formulations of fluorophores, aqueous or liquid compositions of fluorophores, and the use of fluorophores are known and are commercially available or able to be synthesized.

[0059] Examples of fluorescent proteins, together with their excitation and emission maxima, are listed below in Table 1. The present disclosure further contemplates an excitation wavelength of about any one of the excitation wavelengths provided in Table 1. TABLE 1

Excitation and Emission maxima for examples of fluorescent proteins

Protein Excitation Emission

(Acronym) Maximum Maximum

(nm) (nm)

Green Fluorescent Proteins

GFP (wt) 395/475 509

Blue Fluorescent Proteins

EBFP 383 445

Sapphire 399 511

T-Sapphire 399 511

Cyan Fluorescent Proteins

ECFP 439 476

mCFP 433 475

Cerulean 433 475

CyPet 435 477

AmCyanl 458 489

Midori-Ishi Cyan 472 495

mTFPl (Teal) 462 492

Green Fluorescent Proteins

EGFP 484 507

AcGFP 480 505

TurboGFP 482 502

Emerald 487 509

Azami Green 492 505

ZsGreen 493 505

Yellow Fluorescent Proteins

EYFP 514 527

Topaz 514 527

Venus 515 528

mCitrine 516 529

YPet 517 530 PhiYFP 525 537

Zs Yellow 1 529 539

mBanana 540 553

Orange and Red Fluorescent Proteins

Kusabira Orange 548 559

mOrange 548 562

dTomato 554 581

tdTomato 554 581

(Tandem)

DsRed 558 583

DsRed2 563 582

DsRed-Express 555 584

(Tl)

DsRed-Monomer 556 586

mTangerine 568 585

mStrawberry 574 596

AsRed2 576 592

mRFPl 584 607

JRed 584 610

mCherry 587 610

HcRedl 588 618

mRaspberry 598 625

HcRed- Tandem 590 637

mPlum 590 649

AQ143 595 655

[0060] In certain embodiments, the organism comprises a fluorescent protein, such as a transgenic plant expressing a fluorescent protein.

[0061] In certain embodiments, the organism comprises one or more of the fluorescent proteins listed in Table 1. In certain embodiments, one or more plants and/or one or more flowers comprise one or more of the fluorescent proteins listed in Table 1. In certain embodiments, one or more plants and/or one or more flowers express one or more of the fluorescent proteins listed in Table 1. In certain embodiments, one or more plants and/or one or more flowers are transgenic for one or more of the fluorescent proteins listed in Table 1.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is a wavelength suitable for excitation of a green fluorescent protein. In certain embodiments, the excitation wavelength is a wavelength suitable for excitation of one of the proteins listed in Table 1.

[0063] In certain embodiments, the device comprises at least one projecting element. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a plurality of projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements comprise at least two, at last three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven or at least eight projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements comprise a single projecting element, two projecting elements, three projecting elements, four projecting elements, five projecting elements, six projecting elements, seven projecting elements or eight projection elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a single projecting element. In certain embodiments, the device comprises two projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises three projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises four projecting elements.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are one or more stalks. In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are one or more fingers. In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more stalks. In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more fingers.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the one or more stalks or fingers comprise at least two, at last three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven or at least eight stalks or fingers. In certain embodiments, the one or more stalks comprise a single stalk or finger, two stalks or fingers, three stalks or fingers, four stalks or fingers, five stalks or fingers, six stalks or fingers, seven stalks or fingers or eight stalks or fingers. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a single stalk or finger. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a plurality of stalks or fingers. In certain embodiments, the device comprises two stalks or fingers. In certain embodiments, the device comprises three stalks or fingers. In certain embodiments, the device comprises four stalks or fingers.

[0066] In certain embodiments, all or part of at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible material. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion.

[0068] In certain embodiments, the flexible portion comprises one or more hinges or joints. In certain embodiments, the flexible portion comprises a deformable material. In certain embodiments, the flexible portion comprises a plastic. In certain embodiments, the flexible portion comprises a soft metal, such as copper. In certain embodiments, the flexible portion comprises a soft metal with an outer coating of plastic, or an outer coating of an insulator.

[0069] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more flexible projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[0070] In certain embodiments, all or part of at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a deformable material. In certain embodiments, all or part of each of the one or more projecting elements comprises a deformable material. In certain embodiments, the deformable material comprises a plastic. In certain embodiments, the deformable material comprises a soft metal, such as copper. In certain embodiments, the deformable material comprises an electrically conducting strip with an outer plastic layer or an outer coating of an insulator. [0071] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more deformable projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[0072] In certain embodiments, all or part of at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a deformable portion. In certain embodiments, all or part of each of the one or more projecting elements comprises a deformable portion. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a deformable portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the deformable portion comprises a plastic. In certain embodiments, the deformable portion comprises a soft metal. In certain embodiments, the deformable portion comprises an electrically conducting strip with an outer plastic layer. In certain embodiments, the deformable portion comprises a soft metal with an outer coating of plastic.

[0074] In certain embodiments, the flexible portion extends for substantially the entire length of a projecting element. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is flexible through substantially the entire length. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more of the projecting elements is flexible through substantially the entire length.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the deformable portion extends for substantially the entire length of a projecting element. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is deformable through substantially the entire length. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more of the projecting elements is deformable through substantially the entire length. [0076] In certain embodiments, the combination of a projecting element in combination with a flexible or deformable portion provides one or more advantages. For example, the combination allows for a light emitter to be positioned so as to emit light onto a desired region of the object and allows adjustment, for example as an ornamental organism changes shape over time, such as for a plant growing.

[0077] In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is extendible and/or retractable. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is extendible and/or retractable.

[0078] In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to a single light emitter. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is connected to a single light emitter. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to a plurality of light emitters. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is connected to a plurality of light emitters. In certain embodiments, the device comprises at least one light emitter on at least one of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises at least one light emitter on each of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a single light emitter on at least one of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a single light emitter on each of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a plurality of light emitters on at least one of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a plurality of light emitters on each of the one or more projecting elements.

[0079] In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), one or more incandescent light sources, one or more fluorescent light sources, one or more discharge lamps, one or more laser light sources, or one or more laser diode light sources. Other types of light emitters are contemplated. In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters comprise one or more light emitting diodes. LEDs are available which emit light in a range of wavelengths including both visible and/or ultraviolet wavelengths. Ultraviolet emitting LEDs (UV LEDs) typically have emission wavelengths of 365 nm or above. LED efficiency at 365nm is approx 5- 8%, whereas efficiency at 395nm is approximately 20%, and power outputs at these longer UV wavelengths are higher. LEDs are available commercially from many suppliers including, for example, LED Supply (Randolph, VT, USA). The use of LEDs provides one or more advantages, including for example a suitable balance of illumination intensity with one or more of current draw, longevity, cost and choice of power supply. In certain embodiments, the one or more LEDs have a current draw of approximately 30 mA.

[0080] Typically, the one or more light emitters do not emit light from a phosphor, and as such the device does not comprise a phosphor.

[0081] In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters are located at an end region of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters are located at a first end region of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more light emitters is located at a first end region of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more light emitters is located at a first end region of the one or more projecting elements. For example, the one or more light emitters may be located near the end of a projecting element or at the end of a projecting element. In certain embodiments, the first end region is an end of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the first end region is located within 2 cm, 1 cm, 5 mm, 2mm or 1mm from the end. The location of a light emitting at an end region provides one or more advantages, including the ability to efficiently position and/or illuminate all or part of the object.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters are located at an end of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters are located at a first end of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more light emitters is located at a first end of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more light emitters is located at a first end of the one or more projecting elements. For example, the one or more light emitters may be located at the end of a projecting element. [0083] In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters have a wide angle delivery of light. In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitter have an angle of delivery of light of 180 degree or less, 120 degrees or less, 90 degrees or less, 75 degrees or less, or 60 degrees or less.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters are located on the outside of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more light emitters is located on the outside of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more light emitters is located on the outside of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the one or more lights emitters are externally located on the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more light emitters is externally located on the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more light emitters is externally located on the one or more projecting elements. For example, the one or more light emitters may be located so that it does not need to emit light through one or more layers of a projecting element.

[0085] In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters are located on the inside of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more light emitters is located on the inside of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more light emitters is located on the inside of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the one or more lights emitters are internally located in the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more light emitters is internally located in the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more light emitters is internally located in the one or more projecting elements. For example, the one or more light emitters may be located so that it emits light through one or more layers of a projecting element.

[0086] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are translucent, such as being clear or transparent. In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are opaque. [0087] In certain embodiments, the level of light produced by the one or more light emitters may be, at least 1 lumen, at least 5 lumens, at least 9 lumens, at least 10 lumens, at least 18 lumens, at least 20 lumens, at least 50 lumens, at least 100 lumens, at least 150 lumens, at least 200 lumens, at least 250 lumens, at least 300 lumens, at least 350 lumens, at least 400 lumens, at least 450 lumens, at least 500 lumens, at least 550 lumens, at least 600 lumens, at least 650 lumens, at least 700 lumens, at least 750 lumens, at least 800 lumens, at least 850 lumens, at least 900 lumens, at least 950 lumens or at least 1000 lumens. In certain embodiments, the level of light produced by the one or more emitters may be 1 lumen or less, 9 lumens or less, 10 lumens or less, 18 lumens or less, 20 lumens or less, 50 lumens or less, 100 lumens or less, 150 lumens or less, 200 lumens or less, 250 lumens or less, 300 lumens or less, 350 lumens or less, 400 lumens or less, 450 lumens or less, 500 lumens or less, 550 lumens or less, 600 lumens or less, 650 lumens or less, 700 lumens or less, 750 lumens or less, 800 lumens or less, 850 lumens or less, 900 lumens or less, 950 lumens or 1000 lumens or less. In certain embodiments, each of the light emitters emits light at one of the aforementioned outputs. In certain embodiments, the total output of the one or more light emitters is one of the aforementioned outputs.

[0088] In certain embodiments, the level of light produced by the one or more of the light emitters is in the range from 9 to 18 lumens, or 5 to 20 lumens.

[0089] In certain embodiments, the level of light produced by the one or more light emitters may be, at least 1.5 mW, at least 7.5 mW, at least 13 mW, at least 15 mW, at least 26 mW, at least 30 mW, at least 75 mW, at least 150 mW, at least 220 mW, at least 300 mW, at least 375 mW, at least 450 mW, at least 500 mW, at least 600 mW, at least 675 mW, at least 750 mW, at least 820 mW, at least 900 mW, at least 975 mW, at least 900 mW, at least 1100 mW, at least 1200 mW, at least 1250 mW, at least 1350 mW, at least 1400 mW, or at least 1500 mW. In certain embodiments, each of the light emitters emits light at one of the aforementioned outputs. In certain embodiments, the total output of the one or more light emitters is one of the aforementioned outputs.

[0090] In certain embodiments, the level of light produced by the one or more of the light emitters is in the range from 13 to 28 mW, or 10 to 30 mW. [0091] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements comprise the light source. In certain embodiments, the one or more light emitters comprise the light source. Examples of light sources include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), one or more incandescent light source, a fluorescent light source, a discharge lamp, a laser light source, a laser diode light source and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Other types of light source are contemplated that are able to produce light at the excitation wavelength. In certain embodiments, the light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED) as described herein. LEDs are available which emit light in a range of wavelengths including both visible and ultraviolet wavelengths. Ultraviolet emitting LEDs (UV LEDs) typically have emission wavelengths of 365 nm or above. LED efficiency at 365nm is approx 5-8%, whereas efficiency at 395nm is approximately 20%, and power outputs at these longer UV wavelengths are higher. LEDs are available commercially from many suppliers including, for example, LED Supply (Randolph, VT, USA). The use of LEDs provides one or more advantages, including for example a suitable balance of illumination intensity with one or more of current draw, longevity, cost and choice of power supply. In certain embodiments, the one or more LEDs have a current draw of approximately 30 mA.

[0092] As described herein, in certain embodiments, the light source is located on a projecting element, for example so the light source directly acts as the light emitter.

[0093] In certain embodiments, the light source is located distal to the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the light source is located distal to the one or more projecting elements and light is transmitted from the light source to the one or more light emitters via one or more light conductors.

[0094] In certain embodiments, one or more light emitters comprise an end of the one or more light conductors. In certain embodiments, the one or more light conductors comprise one or more optical fibres. In certain embodiments, light is transmitted from the light source to a light emitter on a projecting element via a light conductor. In certain embodiments, an end of the light conductor on a projecting element may comprise the light emitter. [0095] A "light conductor" refers to any device or mechanism which serves to conduct light from a light source to a light emitter. Examples of light conductors may include, for example, a transparent material, airspace or fluid surrounded by a reflective layer such that light travelling within the transparent material, airspace or fluid will be internally reflected. Examples of such materials may include solid clear or hollow opaque tubes which are internally and/or externally coated with a reflective material. In certain embodiments, the light conductor may exploit total internal reflection of light within the conductor and thus may not require a reflective coating. In certain embodiments, a light conductor may comprise an optical fibre. As referred to herein, an "optical fibre" includes any dielectric waveguide (non-conducting waveguide) that transmits light along its axis, by the process of internal reflection. Optical fibres typically comprise a core surrounded by a cladding layer, both of which are made of dielectric materials. To confine light in the core, the refractive index of the core must be greater than that of the cladding. The boundary between the core and cladding may either be abrupt, in step-index fibre, or gradual, in graded-index fibre.

[0096] In certain embodiments, the device comprises a power supply for the light source. A broad range of power supplies may be used to provide power to the one or more light sources, and a variety of suitable power supplies are contemplated. In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises a photovoltaic cell. Reference herein to a "photovoltaic cell" should be considered any device which is able to convert the energy of photons into electricity. As such, the photovoltaic cells contemplated herein may include, for example, solar cells which convert energy from solar radiation into electricity and/or thermophotovoltaic cells, which use the energy of photons emitted from a heat source (typically in the infra-red spectrum), into electricity. A broad range of photovoltaic cells are available commercially and include, for example, monocrystalline Si cells, polycrystalline Si cells, amorphous or thin film Si cells and the like.

[0097] In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises one or more batteries and/or one or more capacitors. In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises one or more batteries. In certain embodiments, a battery and/or capacitor may be used to store energy generated by a photovoltaic cell or other power generation means. In certain embodiments, a battery or a capacitor may be a stand-alone disposable or rechargeable power source. In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises one or more rechargeable batteries, such as one or more lithium batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries or nickel metal hydride batteries.

[0098] In certain embodiments the power supply is collocated with the device. In certain embodiments, the power supply is integral with the device. In certain embodiments, the device comprises an integral power supply. In certain embodiments, the device does not comprise a power supply, and is electrically connected to a remote power source. In certain embodiments, power is supplied from an external power source.

[0099] In certain embodiments, the power supply provides sufficient power for continuous operation of the light source for a period of at least 6 hours, at least 12 hours, at least 18 hours, at least one day, at least two days, at least three days, at least four days, at least five days, at least six days or at least 1 week. For example, for a corsage or lapel flower a continuous operation of about at least six hours is desirable, while for a vase containing one or more cut flowers a continuous operation of at least a week is desirable.

[00100] In certain embodiments, the power supply has a capacity of at least 60 mAh, at least 120 mAh, at least 160 mAh, at least 180 mAh, at least 300 mAh, at least 320 mAh, at least 360 mAh, at least 480 mAh, at least 500 mAh, at least 540 mAh, at least 600 mAh, at least 720 mAh, at least 800 mAh, at least 900 mAh, at least 975 mAh, at least 1500 mAh, at least 2500 mAh, or at least 7000 mAh. Other capacities are also contemplated.

[00101] In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises at least one battery, at least two batteries, at least three batteries, at least four batteries, at least five batteries, or at least six batteries. In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises one battery, two batteries, three batteries, four batteries, five batteries, or six batteries. Examples of batteries include at least one 300 mAh battery (such as an AAAA battery), at least one 800 mAh battery (such as a AAA battery), at least one 2500 mAh battery (such as a AA battery), or at least one 7000 mAh battery (such a C type battery). In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises three AAAA batteries. [00102] In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises a capacity of 750 mAh or less and/or a voltage of 4 volts or less.

[00103] In certain embodiments, the power supply comprises an inverter which may be used to, for example, tuning voltage and current for light emitters and possibly to allow changes in these parameters for multi- wavelength (eg. multi-colour) light emitters.

[00104] In certain embodiments, the device comprises a switch for turning the power supply on and/or off and/or for varying or modulating the power supplied to the light source. The switch may also be activated by any suitable stimulus including, for example, manual switching by a user, switching in response to light (eg. switching on in response to low or no ambient light), switching in response to sound, switching in response to motion, switching in response to touch. A range of suitable switch mechanisms that are responsible to a range of stimuli are commercially available. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a light sensor, a sound sensor, a touch sensor and/or a motion sensor.

[00105] In certain embodiments, the device comprises a light sensor and/or a motion sensor. In certain embodiments, a sensor may switch on the power supply at a specific ambient light level and/or switch the power supply at a specific ambient light level. For example, a sensor may switch on the power supply at an ambient light level of 10 Lux or less. In certain embodiments, a sensor may switch on the power supply at a specific level and/or distance of motion occurring. In certain embodiments, the sensor switch may turn the power supply after a designated period of time.

[00106] In certain embodiments, the device comprises an electrical or electronic component to vary the light intensity of the light emitted from the one or more light emitters and/or the light source. In certain embodiments, the light intensity is varied randomly or varied on a time basis.

[00107] In certain embodiments, the device comprises a control system. The control system may include, for example, electronic controls which are programmable and/or programmable computer-based control systems. In certain embodiments, the control system may receive inputs from, for example, the switch, the level of power remaining and/or being generated by the power supply, a timer, the type and/or number of light sources, and the like. In response to these inputs, the control system may control the activation of the light source(s). In certain embodiments, the device comprises a timer.

[00108] In certain embodiments, the device comprises a base. In certain embodiments, the base may be used to place the device on a surface, such as the base of a vase, on a solid surface or the wrist of an individual wearing a corsage. In certain embodiments, the base comprises an element for attachment to an object. For example, for a lapel flower comprising the device, the device may contain an element to allow placement of the base of the device through a buttonhole, and/or contain a pin for pinning the device to clothing.

[00109] In certain embodiments, the base comprises one or more of (i) a power supply for the light source as described herein, (ii) a control system as described herein, (iii) a sensor as described herein, (iv) a component to vary the light intensity as described herein, (v) a switch as described herein, and (vi) an inverter as described herein. In certain embodiments, the base comprises a power supply.

[00110] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are connected to the base. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to the base. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is connected to the base. The connection of the one or more projecting elements to the base may be either direct or indirect.

[00111] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are attached to the base. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is attached to the base. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is attached to the base. The attachment of the one or more projecting elements to the base may be either direct or indirect.

[00112] In certain embodiments, a single projecting element is directly attached to the base. In certain embodiments, a plurality of projecting elements is directly attached to the base. In certain embodiments, 2, 3 or 4 projecting elements are directly attached to the base. [00113] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are fixedly attached to the base. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is fixedly attached to the base. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is fixedly attached to the base. The fixed attachment of the one or more projecting elements to the base may be either direct or indirect.

[00114] In certain embodiments, a single projecting element is fixedly attached to the base. In certain embodiments, a plurality of projecting elements is fixedly attached to the base. In certain embodiments, 2, 3 or 4 projecting elements are fixedly attached to the base.

[00115] In certain embodiments, the base supports the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the base supports at least one of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the base supports each of the one or more projecting elements.

[00116] In certain embodiments, the base supports a single projecting element. In certain embodiments, the base supports a plurality of projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the base supports 2, 3 or 4 projecting elements.

[00117] In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more stems. In certain embodiments, the one or more stems are located between the one or more projecting elements and a base. In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more stems for supporting the one or more projecting elements.

[00118] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are connected to one or more stems. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to a stem. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is connected to a stem. The connection of the one or more projecting elements to a stem may be either direct or indirect.

[00119] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are attached to one or more stems. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is attached to a stem. The attachment of the one or more projecting elements to a stem may be either direct or indirect.

[00120] In certain embodiments, a single projecting element is directly attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, a plurality of projecting elements is directly attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, 2, 3 or 4 projecting elements are directly attached to a stem.

[00121] In certain embodiments, the one or more projecting elements are fixedly attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more projecting elements is fixedly attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more projecting elements is fixedly attached to a stem. The fixed attachment of the one or more projecting elements to a stem may be either direct or indirect.

[00122] In certain embodiments, a single projecting element is fixedly attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, a plurality of projecting elements is fixedly attached to a stem. In certain embodiments, 2, 3 or 4 projecting elements are fixedly attached to a stem.

[00123] In certain embodiments, one or more stems support the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, a stem supports at least one of the one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, a stem supports each of the one or more projecting elements.

[00124] In certain embodiments, a stem supports a single projecting element. In certain embodiments, a stem supports a plurality of projecting elements. In certain embodiments, a stem supports 2, 3 or 4 projecting elements.

[00125] In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more stems adapted to allow the removable attachment of one or more or projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the device comprises one or more stems, at least one of the one or stems adapted to allow the removable attachment of one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, each of the one or more stems is adapted to allow the removable attachment of one or more projecting elements. In certain embodiments, the use of a stem adapted to allow the removable attachment of a projecting element provides one or more advantages, including the ability to change the number and/or type of projecting elements that are used to illuminate an organism.

[00126] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides methods for illuminating an object as described herein. In certain embodiments, the methods comprising illuminating an object with a device as described herein.

[00127] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the method comprising illuminating the object with an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

[00128] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a combination product comprising a device as described herein. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a combination product comprising a device as described herein and either or both of (i) a fluorophore capable of fluorescing at an excitation wavelength as described herein; and (ii) all or part of an object as described herein

[00129] Certain embodiments provide a combination product, the combination product comprising the following components:

an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at an excitation wavelength; and

a fluorophore.

[00130] Certain embodiments provide a combination product, the combination product comprising the following components:

all or part of an object capable of fluorescing upon exposure to light emitted from the one or more emitters.

[00131] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a kit for illuminating an object. In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a kit for illuminating an object, the kit comprising an illumination device as described herein.

[00132] In certain embodiments, the kit optionally comprises a fluorophore capable of fluorescing at an excitation wavelength as described herein and/or instructions for causing all or part of an object to fluoresce upon exposure to light emitted from the illumination device.

[00133] Certain embodiments provide a kit comprising:

and optionally a fluorophore and/or instructions for causing all or part of an object to fluoresce upon exposure to light emitted from the illumination device.

[00134] Certain exemplary embodiments are illustrated by the following figures. It is to be understood that the following description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting with respect to the above description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[00135] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a diagrammatic representation of a device 100 for illuminating a plant. The plant may be, for example, a plant sprayed or coated with a fluorophore, or a transgenic plant expressing a fluorescent protein. The device 100 for illuminating a plant includes a plurality (four) of projecting elements 110, which are flexible. In this embodiment, each of the projecting elements is deformable through substantially their entire length. In this embodiment each projecting element is connected to a light emitter 115, located at the end of a projecting element 110, and which emits light in the ultraviolet range and is suitable for exciting a fluorophore associated with a plant (not shown).

[00136] The device 100 may further comprise a stem 120, which in this embodiment, serves to space the projecting elements 110 away from a base 130 and to lift the projecting elements into the vicinity of plants and/or flowers to be illuminated. In this embodiment, each of the projecting elements 110 is directly attached to the stem 120. In certain embodiments, the stem 120 may extend through or next to a plant pot (not shown) which may sit on the base 130. In this embodiment, the projecting elements 110 are near to the aerial parts of a plant, such as the flowers, and the emitters 115 on the projecting elements may be used to illuminate these aerial parts of the plant with a suitable wavelength of light. In certain embodiments, it may be desirable to illuminate a plant with an excitation wavelength of light in order to induce fluorescence in a suitable plant. In certain embodiments it may be desirable to illuminate the aerial parts of the plant from below and one or more of the projecting elements 110 may be positioned to illuminate the aerial parts of the plant from below.

[00137] The base 130 may incorporate a power source, in this case a plurality of photovoltaic cells 140 which serve as a power supply for the emitters 115. The base 130 may also comprises a switch 150 for switching the emitters 115 on and off. The device 100 may also further comprise a means for storing electrical energy (not shown) generated by the photovoltaic cells 140. Such means may include, for example, a rechargeable battery and/or capacitor. [00138] Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a diagrammatic representation of a device 200 for illuminating a plant which comprises a plurality (four) of projecting elements 210 which are flexible. In this embodiment, each projecting element is connected to a UV-LED light emitter 215. In this embodiment, each of the projecting elements 210 is deformable through substantially their entire length.

[00139] The device 200 may further comprise a stem 220, which in this embodiment, serves to space the projecting elements 210 away from a base 230 and to lift the projecting elements into the vicinity of plants and/or flowers to be illuminated. In certain embodiments, the stem 220 may extend through or next to a plant pot (not shown) which may sit on the base 230. In these embodiments, the projecting elements 210 are near to the aerial parts of a plant placed and/or growing in the pot and the UV- LED emitters 215 on the projecting elements 210 may be used to illuminate these aerial parts of the plant (not shown). The light from the UV LED emitters 215 may be diffused so that the light may be spread over all or part of the surface of the plant to be illuminated.

[00140] In the embodiment shown, the base 230 incorporates a plurality of photovoltaic cells 240, which serve as a power supply for the UV LED emitters 215. The base 230 may also include a switch 250 for switching the UV LED emitters 215 on and off. The device 200 may also comprise a means for storing electrical energy (not shown) generated by the photovoltaic cells 240. Such means may include, for example, a rechargeable battery and/or capacitor.

[00141] Referring to Figure 3, this diagrammatic representation shows a device 300 for illuminating a plant which comprises a plurality (four) of projecting elements 310 which are flexible and each projecting element is connected to a light emitter 315, which in the embodiment shown is the end of a light conductor.

[00142] In this embodiment, the device further comprises a light source, being a UV LED 360. Light is conducted from the UV LED light source 360 via a light conductor 325 which comprises the internal space of the stem 320 which has been lined with a UV-reflective material. Light is conducted to a removable cap 360 (shown detached from stem 320) connected to emitters 315 on projecting elements 310 via optical fibers which are on or within or comprise the projecting elements 310. The stem 320 is adapted to allow the removable attachment of one or more or projecting elements 310. In this embodiment, the device allows the projecting elements 310 and emitters 315 to be swapped for a different size or configuration where desired.

[00143] In the embodiment shown, the base 330 incorporates a plurality of photovoltaic cells 340 which serve as a power supply for the UV LED light source 360. The base 330 may also comprise a switch 350 for switching the UV LED light source 360 on and off. The device 300 may also further comprise a means for storing electrical energy (not shown) generated by the photovoltaic cells 340. Such means may include, for example, a rechargeable battery and/or capacitor.

[00144] The device 300 may also further comprise a microchip 370 which serves as a control system for controlling the operation of the light source 360.

[00145] Figure 4 shows a view of a device 400 used in conjunction with a plant pot 405. In this embodiment, it can be seen that the pot 405 may comprise an aperture 445 in the base of the pot through which a stem 420 may extend. The upper portion of the stem 420 may comprise a device 400 for illuminating a plant, so that the projecting elements 410 and light emitters 415 are then positioned in the headspace above the soil surface in the pot where the aerial parts of a plant growing in the pot would be present.

[00146] In this embodiment, the pot 405 may be placed in the base 430, which may further comprise a plurality of photovoltaic cells 440. The light emitters 415 are removably detachable from the stem 420 to assist in placement of a plant into the pot and/or to allow for different projecting elements 410 to be mounted on the stem 420.

[00147] Referring to Figure 5, there is shown a view of a device 500 for illuminating a plant with flowers for use in a vase 505. The device 500 comprises a single projecting element 510 connected to a light emitter 515 which emits light in the ultraviolet range and is suitable for exciting a fluorophore associated with flowers 516. The light emitter 515 is located at an end of the projecting element 510. The single projecting element comprises a flexible portion 525 and a non-flexible portion 526. [00148] In this embodiment, the upper region of the projecting element 510 is proximal to the flowers 516 placed and/or growing in the vase 505, and the light emitter 515 connected to the projecting element may be used to illuminate the flowers 516 with a suitable wavelength of light.

[00149] As set out above, the device 500 may also further comprise a base 530. The base 530 may hold one or more batteries which serve as a power supply for the light emitter 515. The base 530 also comprises a switch 550 for switching the emitter 515 on and off.

[00150] In this embodiment, all or part of the plant may comprise a fluorophore, such as fluorescein and/or rhodamine spayed onto the plant using an aqueous formulation of either or both of these compounds. For example, a 2% aqueous solution of fluorescein is suitable. In certain embodiments, one or more of (i) a plant and/or its flowers sprayed with a fluorophore, (ii) a fluorophore and/or a composition thereof for application to a plant and/or flowers, (iii) an illumination device 500, (iv) the vase 505 and instructions for applying the fluorophore and/or using the device may be provided to a customer. In certain embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned components may be provided as a combination product. In some embodiments, one or more of the aforementioned components may be supplied as a kit.

[00151] Referring to Figure 6, there is shown a view of a device 600 for illuminating a plant with flowers 616 for use in a vase 605. The device 600 comprises a plurality of projecting elements (six) 610, which are flexible portion over their length. The projecting elements 610 are connected to light emitters 615, located at the end of the projecting elements 610, which emit light in the ultraviolet range and are suitable for exciting a fluorophore associated with flowers 616.

[00152] In this embodiment, the upper region of the projecting elements 610 is proximal to the flowers 616 placed and/or growing in the vase 605 and the light emitters 615 connected to the projecting elements 610 may be used to illuminate the flowers 616 with a suitable wavelength of light. [00153] As set out above, the device 600 may also further comprise a base 630. The base 630 may hold one or more batteries which serve as a power supply for the light emitters 615. The device further comprises a switch 650 for switching the emitters 615 on and off, located between the projecting elements 610 and the base 630.

[00154] Referring to Figure 7, there is shown a view of a device 700 for illuminating a plant with flowers for use in a vase 705. The device 700 comprises a plurality of flexible projecting elements (three) 710, which are flexible. The projecting elements 710 are connected to light emitters 715 which emit light in the ultraviolet range and are suitable for exciting a fluorophore associated with flowers 716. The projection elements are fixedly attached to a stem 720.

[00155] In this embodiment, the projecting elements 710 are located above the flowers 716 and bent downwards to project light with a suitable wavelength from the light emitters 715 onto the flowers 716.

[00156] The device 700 may also further comprise a base 730. The base 730 may hold one or more batteries which serve as a power supply for the light emitters 715. The device may further comprise an activation sensor 726 located on the upper end of the stem 720, for example an ambient light sensor or a motion sensor, to switch the emitters 715 on for a defined period of time.

[00157] The device 700 may further comprises a cone shaped element 736, to hold the flower stems.

[00158] Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a diagrammatic representation of a device 800 for illuminating a flower 816 for use in a corsage. The device 800 comprises two projecting elements 810, which are flexible over their length. The projecting elements 810 are connected to light emitters 815 which emit light in the ultraviolet range and are suitable for exciting a fluorophore associated with flowers 816.

[00159] In this embodiment, the end regions of the projecting elements 810 are proximal to the flowers 816 placed and the light emitters 815 connected to the projecting elements 810 may be used to illuminate the flowers 816 with a suitable wavelength of light.

[00160] The device 800 also further comprise a base 830, for holding one or more batteries as a power supply for the light emitters 815. The projecting elements 810 are directly fixedly attached to the base 830. The device further comprises a clip 817 for retaining the arrangement of flowers and ribbon(s) to the base 830. The device may further comprise a switch (not shown) for switching the emitters 815 on and off. The device may be further attached to a wrist strap 837, which may also be attached to a lower side of the base 830. In some embodiments, the wrist strap is a releasable strap, such as a strap utilising a hook and loop arrangement (eg velcro). The corsage may be directly or indirectly, attached to a wrist strap 837.

[00161] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated that the disclosure may be embodied in many other forms. It will also be appreciated that the disclosure described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all of the steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to, or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any two or more of the steps or features.

[00162] Also, it is to be noted that, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural aspects unless the context already dictates otherwise.

[00163] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or integer or group of elements or integers but not the exclusion of any other element or integer or group of elements or integers.

Claims

1. An illumination device for illuminating an object with light of an excitation wavelength, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more projecting elements are stalks.

3. The device according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the flexible portion comprises a deformable material.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flexible portion extends for substantially the entire length of the one or more projecting elements.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more light emitters are located at an end region of the one or more projecting elements.

6. The device according to any one of claims to 1 to 5, wherein the device comprises a single light emitter on each of the one or more projecting elements.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the one or more light emitters are located on the outside of the one or more projecting elements.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the device comprises a power supply for the light source.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the power supply comprises one or more batteries.

10. The device according to claims 8 or 9 wherein the power supply comprises a capacity of 750 mAh or less and/or a voltage of 4 volts or less.

11. The device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the device comprises a switch for turning the power supply on and/or off.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the device comprises a light sensor and/or a motion sensor.

13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the one or more light emitters comprise one or more light emitting diodes.

14. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the light source is located distal to the one or more projecting elements and light is transmitted from the light source to the one or more light emitters via one or more light conductors.

15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the one or more light emitters comprise an end of the one or more light conductors.

16. The device according to claims 14 or 15, wherein the one or more light conductors comprise one or more optical fibres.

17. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 500 nm or less.

18. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the light source emits light with a wavelength comprising 400 nm or less.

19. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the excitation wavelength is 400 nm or less.

20. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the device comprises a base.

21. The device according to claim 20, wherein the base comprise a power supply for the light source.

22. The device according to claims 20 or 21, wherein the one or more projecting elements are fixedly attached to the base.

23. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the device comprises a stem for supporting the one or more projecting elements.

24. The device according to claim 23, wherein the stem is located between the one or more projecting elements and a base.

25. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the device comprises a single projecting element.

26. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the device comprises a plurality of projecting elements.

27. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the object comprises an ornamental organism.

28. The device according to claim 27, wherein the ornamental organism comprises one or more plants.

29. The device according to claims 27 or 28, wherein the ornamental organism comprises one or more flowers.

30. The device according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the ornamental organism comprises one or more cut flowers.

31. A vase comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

32. A corsage comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

33. A lapel flower comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

34. An arrangement of one or more plants and/or one or more flowers comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

35. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the object comprises a human with a fluorophore applied to part of the human.

36. A headpiece comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

37. A method of illuminating an object, the method comprising illuminating the object with a device according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

38. A method of illuminating an object with light of an excitation length, the method comprising illuminating the object with an illumination device, the device comprising one or more projecting elements, wherein at least one of the one or more projecting elements comprises a flexible portion and at least one of the one or more projecting elements is connected to one or more light emitters which emit light generated by a light source at the excitation wavelength.

39. A combination product, the combination product comprising the following components:

a fluorophore.

40. A combination product, the combination product comprising the following components:

A kit comprising: