Artificial Candle Flame Suspension for Realistic Flicker
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved electric candles and other lighting devices that effectively simulate the appearance and movement of real candle flames while maintaining durability and safety.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a flame element that can move within a housing, secured by various mechanisms such as tabs, pins, and clips, allowing for multiple configurations that mimic the movement of a real candle flame without sacrificing stability or visibility, and includes a light source positioned to enhance the simulation without casting shadows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the flame element is fixed rigidly in the housing, then stability and safety are improved, but the ability to simulate real flame movement is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The flame element is designed to be movable within the housing rather than fixed, allowing it to simulate the natural movement of real candle flames. The element can swing, rotate, or shift position in response to air flow or mechanical actuation, creating a dynamic visual effect that mimics organic flame behavior while maintaining safety through contained movement within the housing structure.
2Shape
If the flame element is allowed to move freely, then flame simulation is improved, but the risk of falling or separation from the housing is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure incorporates localized retention features such as protrusions, clips, or engagement mechanisms at specific positions to secure the flame element. These local structural elements provide targeted support and restraint at critical points, allowing the flame element to move within defined boundaries while preventing complete detachment or falling, thus balancing simulation freedom with security.
3Reliability
If a complex securing mechanism is used to secure the flame element, then security is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The securing mechanism is integrated into the housing structure itself, combining the support, positioning, and retention functions into the existing housing components. Features such as built-in clips, molded-in retention slots, or structural interlocking elements are incorporated during housing manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate securing devices and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective security.
4Shape
If the light source is positioned to illuminate the flame element, then flame simulation is improved, but shadow casting that obstructs visibility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is designed to illuminate the flame element from multiple angles and dimensions, using distributed light sources or reflective surfaces to provide omnidirectional lighting. This multi-dimensional illumination approach ensures that the flame element is evenly lit from all viewing angles, eliminating shadows and obstructions while enhancing the three-dimensional realism of the simulated flame effect.
Data Source
AI summary
Various components for artificial candles and other lighting devices are described that can be used to create a realistic flame effect in the devices. The devices include a flame element that extends upwardly from a housing. A light source can be disposed with respect to the flame element such that the flame element is illuminated. A variety of drive mechanisms could be disposed within the body of the device that can cause movement of the flame element with respect to the housing. The flame element can be coupled to a housing or mounting bracket of the device using various components to suspend the flame element within the housing.