Aircraft Light Assembly with Positively Fitted Dual Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft lights often have unsatisfactory light output shaping capabilities, and existing assembly methods can be complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a support with a light source, a first optical element, and a second optical element that establish a positive mechanical engagement, allowing light to pass through multiple optical boundaries, enhancing light output shaping while simplifying assembly by eliminating the need for additional supporting components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a single overmolded optic is used to enclose the light source, then the light source is protected from adverse external influences, but the light output shaping capabilities are not satisfactory
Solution Approach 1:
The single overmolded optic is divided into two separate optical elements: a first optical element positioned closer to the light source and a second optical element positioned farther away. Each element can be independently designed and optimized for specific light shaping functions, allowing complex light distribution patterns to be achieved through the combination of multiple simpler elements rather than one complex element.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by arranging optical elements at different positions along the optical axis. The first optical element is positioned at a first distance from the light source while the second optical element is positioned at a second distance, creating a multi-layer optical system that shapes light through sequential refraction and reflection at different spatial planes.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple optical elements are introduced to enhance light output shaping, then light shaping capabilities are improved, but the assembly becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second optical elements are merged into a single integrated assembly where the elements are positioned and fixed relative to each other as one unit. This integrated assembly is then installed as a single component onto the light source housing, combining the benefits of multiple optimized optical elements while avoiding the assembly complexity of installing multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly of optical elements serves multiple functions simultaneously: the first optical element shapes light in one manner while the second optical element further shapes or redirects the light, and together they provide both protection and optical control. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate components for different functions.
3Reliability
If additional supporting components are used to fix optical elements, then the optical elements are securely mounted, but the mechanical structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is merged with the optical elements themselves. The optical elements are designed with integrated mounting features or are directly formed as part of the housing structure, eliminating the need for separate supporting components. The optical elements serve both their optical function and their mechanical mounting function within a unified structure.
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
This configuration achieves enhanced light output shaping with reduced dimensions, lower production and assembly costs, and improved mechanical structure simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second optical elements being at least partially light transmissive, allowing light, which is emitted by the light source, to pass through the first and second optical elements
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft light comprises a support board; a light source, arranged on the support board; a first optical element, which is at least partially light transmissive, which is arranged over the light source, and which is fixed to the support board; and a second optical element, which is at least partially light transmissive, wherein the first optical element is interposed between the light source and the second optical element. The first optical element has a first engagement portion and the second optical element has a second engagement portion. The first engagement portion and the second engagement portion establish a positive fit between the first optical element and the second optical element. At least a portion of light, which is emitted by the light source in operation, passes through the first optical element and through the second optical element.