Abstract:
An optical assembly includes a first reflector having a reflective surface with a first lateral extent, and a second reflector having a reflective surface with a smaller, second lateral extent. The second reflector is disposed such that the second reflective surface opposes the first reflective surface with a space therebetween. A light emitter couples with the first reflector such that the light emitter emits light along a central axis, away from the first reflector and toward the second reflector. A translucent diffuser substantially spans the space between the first and second reflectors. A majority of the light emitted by the light emitter reflects from the first and second reflectors, and impinges on and passes through the diffuser. A luminaire that includes the optical assembly also includes an outer shell having a form that is analogous to a shape of the diffuser of the optical assembly.