Billiard light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing billiard table lighting systems either cast disproportionate concentrated illumination or overly diffused light, making it difficult to discern the 'nose' of the cushion against the table bed, which is crucial for clear visibility and production quality, especially in filming and training.
Innovation Solution
An overhead lighting platform with precision alignment capabilities, using focused LED and laser projections to create a hard shadow under the nose of the cushion, while controlling light distribution to emphasize the cushion's depth and reduce hot spots.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If mirrors and diffusers are used to scatter light laterally, then the shadows are softened and light is flooded under the rail, but it becomes difficult to visually discern the nose of the cushion against the table bed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different lighting approaches for different regions of the billiard table. Specifically, the lighting system creates concentrated, directional illumination that targets specific areas (like the cushion nose) with focused light beams, while allowing other areas to have more diffused lighting. This selective application of light quality enables the cushion nose to stand out with hard edges and shadows, preserving visual information about its depth and position against the table bed.
2Illumination intensity
If centrally hung chandelier provides concentrated illumination, then the middle of the playing surface is well lit, but the lighting is disproportionate and does not provide even illumination across the table
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lighting system into multiple independent light sources positioned at different locations around the billiard table. Instead of relying on a single central chandelier, the system uses several focused LED fixtures that can be independently controlled and positioned to illuminate specific zones. This segmented approach allows for precise control of light distribution, creating uniform illumination across the entire playing surface while maintaining the ability to highlight specific features like the cushion nose.
3Area of stationary object
If diffusers scatter light around, then the light coverage is increased, but the definition and contrast of the cushion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from two-dimensional diffused light coverage to three-dimensional focused light beams. The lighting system uses directional LED fixtures with adjustable beam angles that project light in specific three-dimensional cones onto the table surface. This approach maintains wide area coverage by positioning multiple fixtures at different heights and angles, while simultaneously preserving cushion definition through the controlled directionality and concentration of light beams, avoiding the softening effect of traditional diffusers.
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 clear and precise illumination of the billiard table, enhancing playability and production quality by creating a stark demarcation of the cushion's nose, improving visibility and fan engagement during broadcasts.
Implementation Method 1
The downward focused light rays directed by the lenses create a hard shadow directly under it, that renders the nose of the cushion very clearly against the table bed.
Implementation Method 2
The mounting rig, called a 'spine', uses an integrated laser line to perfectly align and calibrate its base position.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system for a billiard table comprising a frame, a plurality of lights disposed in the frame, and at least one lens coupled to the frame. The at least one lens is configured to focus a light produced by at least one light disposed in the frame.