Dual Mode Aircraft Light Assembly Merging Visible and Covert Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft position light systems require separate assemblies for visible and covert modes, which increase complexity and reduce operational efficiency, as they do not integrate both light sources on a single base, limiting adaptability and compliance with multiple regulatory standards.
Innovation Solution
A dual mode light assembly is designed with both visible and covert light sources mounted to a single base, utilizing a light shield and reflector to restrict light transmission and comply with visible and covert light standards, allowing the aircraft to operate in two modes without additional assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate assemblies are used for visible and covert light sources, then compliance with regulatory standards is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate visible and covert light source assemblies into a single integrated assembly that includes both light sources mounted on a common base structure. This merging reduces the total number of assemblies while maintaining the ability to comply with both visible and covert operational standards through unified mounting and control mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate assemblies are used for visible and covert light sources, then functional requirements are met, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated assembly is designed to serve multiple functions by incorporating both visible and covert light sources in a single unit. The assembly can operate in different modes (visible, covert, or both simultaneously) without requiring separate configurations or installations, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining adaptability to various operational requirements
3Reliability
If multiple separate assemblies are installed, then light coverage requirements are met, but aircraft weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple separate light source assemblies into a single integrated assembly that contains both visible and covert light sources, the total weight of the lighting system is reduced. The shared base structure, mounting hardware, and housing eliminate redundant components that would otherwise be present in separate assemblies, thereby reducing aircraft weight while maintaining required light coverage
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 integrated solution simplifies aircraft lighting systems, enhances operational efficiency by reducing complexity, and ensures compliance with both visible and covert light standards, improving visibility and covert operation capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the forward dual mode light assemblies has a first visible light source and a first covert light source mounted to a first single base
Implementation Method 2
In certain situations, non-visible lights, such as infrared lights, are utilized on an aircraft
Implementation Method 3
utilizing a light shield and reflector to restrict light transmission and comply with visible and covert light standards
Implementation Method 4
utilizing a light shield and reflector to restrict light transmission and comply with visible and covert light standards
Data Source
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AI summary
An aircraft comprising a forward dual mode light assembly (100) disposed on each side of the aircraft, wherein each forward dual mode light assembly comprises a first visible light source (120) and a first covert light source (130) mounted to a first single base (110); and an aft dual mode light assembly (200) disposed on an aft section of the aircraft, wherein the aft dual mode light assembly comprises a second visible light source (220) and a second covert light source (230) mounted to a second single base (210).