Adjustable Aircraft Reading Light Optics for Cabin Fit Variations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft passenger reading lights are not adaptable to different aircraft types and seating configurations, requiring multiple types to accommodate varying geometries and distances between lights and seats, which increases complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft passenger reading light with a modular design featuring a light source, optical element, and actuation mechanism that adjusts the distance between the light source and optical element, allowing for multiple configurations to accommodate various aircraft geometries and seating arrangements, including a tubular actuation mechanism with a rotating member that modifies the light output by changing the distance between the light source and optical element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different types of aircraft passenger reading lights are installed for different aircraft types and seating configurations, then the adaptability to various geometries and distances is improved, but the device complexity and number of light types required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a telescopic optical element that can extend and retract along the optical axis, allowing the reading light to dynamically adjust its focal distance and light distribution pattern. This dynamic structure enables a single light type to adapt to different installation distances and seating configurations, replacing the need for multiple fixed-type lights.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the optical element's position relative to the light source by introducing a telescopic mechanism. By adjusting the extension distance of the optical element, the light output characteristics (beam angle, illumination area, intensity distribution) are modified to suit different aircraft geometries and seating arrangements, thereby achieving adaptability without requiring multiple light types.
2Ease of manufacture
If the distance between the light source and optical element is fixed, then the manufacturing and installation process is simplified, but the ability to accommodate different installation distances in various aircraft types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic optical element introduces a dynamic adjustment capability that allows the distance between the light source and optical element to be varied after installation. This dynamic feature enables the same light fixture to be installed at different distances from various seat configurations while maintaining proper light output characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic mechanism enables a single reading light design to serve multiple functions across different aircraft types and seating configurations. By making the optical element's position adjustable, the same light fixture can universally accommodate various installation scenarios, reducing the need for custom-designed lights for each aircraft type.
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
Enables a single type of reading light to be used across different aircraft and seating configurations, reducing the number of light types needed and enhancing adaptability while maintaining effective illumination, thus simplifying installation and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
an optical element; and an actuation mechanism, which is configured to modify a distance between the light source and the optical element
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft passenger reading light, which is operable in at least two predetermined configurations, comprises: a light source; an optical element; and an actuation mechanism, which is configured to modify a distance between the light source and the optical element. The distance (D) between the light source and the optical element differs in the at least two predetermined configurations and a spatial extension of the illumination, which results from the light output of the light source and the optical element, differs in the at least two predetermined configurations.