Collapsible Light Tunnel for On-Site Vehicle Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current inspection lighting systems for automotive paint finishes are often fixed and require vehicles to be transported to a shop for inspection, which is inefficient and costly, especially for fleets affected by hail damage.
Innovation Solution
A modular, lightweight, collapsible light inspection tunnel system that can be easily assembled and disassembled for on-site use, featuring adjustable LED light panels with a common power circuit and hinged design for easy transport and setup, allowing for customizable configurations and improved portability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fixed inspection lighting systems are used, then inspection quality is maintained, but vehicle transport requirements increase and inspection efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection lighting system is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently handled and assembled. Each panel contains integrated lighting components and structural elements, allowing the system to be broken down into manageable units for transport and reconfigured for inspection deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system transitions from a fixed, stationary configuration to a portable, deployable structure. The panels incorporate hinges and adjustable support mechanisms that enable the system to be easily set up, taken down, and relocated between different inspection sites.
2Ease of operation
If modular light panels are used, then system portability is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components are integrated into each light panel, including lighting elements, structural framing, support mechanisms, and electrical connections. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts that need to be handled during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels incorporate self-aligning features and intuitive connection mechanisms that guide proper assembly without requiring specialized tools or extensive training. The design allows users to assemble and configure the system through straightforward mechanical operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable light tunnel configurations are implemented, then inspection versatility is improved, but structural stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The panels are pre-configured with integrated support structures, bracing elements, and connection points that maintain structural integrity during assembly and operation. The design incorporates predetermined geometric relationships that naturally stabilize the tunnel configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the tunnel structure have specialized characteristics optimized for their specific functions. Connection points feature reinforced structures for stability, while intermediate sections provide adjustment flexibility. The support mechanisms are strategically positioned to maintain rigidity where needed while allowing movement where required.
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 efficient on-site inspection of vehicle fleets with improved damage assessment and quality control, reducing the need for repair supplements and enhancing inspection capabilities with adjustable and portable lighting solutions.
Implementation Method 1
the light panels comprised rows of LED, e.g., LED light strips
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible light tunnel includes pairs of vertical, (optional angled) and overhead light panels collapsibly coupled together and moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The light panels include strips of LED lights, light diffusers, and fixtures/brackets for maintaining the panels in the deployed position. The overhead (and angled) light panels are collapsible adjacent the vertical panels in the stowed position.