Acrylic Illumination Panel Dot Matrix Adhesive Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Acrylic panels used in illuminated signage are vulnerable to scratches and moisture, leading to uneven light distribution due to the sensitivity of the matrix of printed dots or laser etched surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A transparent acrylic core with a matrix of adhesive dots on both surfaces, which acts as a protective layer and light refracting/reflecting medium, securely bonding protective panels to prevent damage and maintain even light distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If a matrix of printed dots or laser etched surface is used on the acrylic panel, then light distribution is controlled and even illumination is achieved, but the panel becomes vulnerable to scratches and moisture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeven light distributionVSAvoidpanel durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The panel structure is segmented into multiple layers: a protective outer layer, the acrylic core with dot matrix, and a reflective layer. This segmentation protects the sensitive dot matrix from direct exposure to environmental factors while maintaining its light distribution function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A protective coating or laminate is introduced as an intermediary layer between the environment and the dot matrix. This intermediary layer shields the dots from scratches and moisture while allowing light to pass through and maintain the even distribution effect.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the acrylic panel surface is protected by additional layers, then durability is improved, but light transmission and refraction may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel durabilityVSAvoidlight transmission
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

A thin protective film or coating is applied to the panel surface. This thin layer provides protection against scratches and moisture while being sufficiently transparent to allow light transmission and refraction through the dot matrix without significant degradation of illumination quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The protective layer is designed with specific optical parameters (transparency, thickness, refractive index) that match or complement the acrylic core. By carefully selecting these parameters, the protective layer provides durability while minimizing its impact on light transmission and maintaining the overall illumination performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution provides a durable and even light distribution across the panel surface, protecting against scratches and moisture while ensuring effective light transmission and reflection, enhancing the longevity and effectiveness of the illumination panel.

Implementation Method 1

The dots of ink affect the refractive and reflective nature of the acrylic and allow light introduced along an edge of the panel to be released across the whole surface area of the panel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

a reflective film or sheet is placed on one side causing the light released on that side to be reflected back through the panel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

both surfaces of the core are provided with a matrix of dots that act as adhesive to bond both surfaces to protective panels

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP2411973B1Illumination panel
Publication Date: 2023.06.07 PIXALUX INNOVATIONS PTY LTD
  • EP2411973B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2411973B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2411973B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

An illumination panel comprising a transparent core having opposing surfaces, a matrix of light releasing dots substantially covering one surface, and a protective layer in abutting contact with said surface whereby the dots act as an adhesive bonding the core to the protective layer.