Electric Candle Pendulum Flame Element Flickering Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved electric candles and lighting devices that effectively simulate a flickering flame effect, as existing technologies fall short in providing a realistic and aesthetically pleasing simulation.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a structure resembling a traditional candle, featuring an outer wax-like shell, an inner shell with receptors for fasteners, a pendulum-style flame element with a spherical body and socket mechanism, and a light source holder with a circuit board to create a realistic flickering flame effect, reducing visible structural elements and enhancing realism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electric candle structures are used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but the flickering flame effect is not realistic
Solution Approach 1:
The flame element is divided into multiple segments or zones with different light emission characteristics. The candle structure is segmented into outer shell, inner shell, and intermediate components, allowing each segment to contribute differently to the overall flickering effect while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements such as movable flame elements that can shift position, vary in height, or change orientation to simulate natural flame behavior. This dynamic capability enhances realism without requiring complex mechanical systems, achieving believable flickering through controlled movement
2Shape
If visible structural elements are reduced, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts or removes visible structural elements such as mounting brackets, fasteners, and support structures from the external view. By taking out these distracting elements or concealing them within the design, the aesthetic appeal is enhanced while the underlying structural requirements are managed through intelligent design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested structures where inner components are housed within outer components in a telescoping manner. The flame element nests within the candle body, and structural supports are nested within decorative elements, creating a clean external appearance while maintaining functional integrity through precise nesting interfaces
3Productivity
If conventional manufacturing methods are used, then production cost is low, but manufacturing efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into distinct stages for different components (outer shell molding, inner shell assembly, flame element fabrication, lighting system integration). This segmentation allows parallel production of components and streamlined assembly, improving overall manufacturing efficiency without significantly increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal components that serve multiple functions. For example, the outer shell provides both structural support and aesthetic appearance, while the mounting structure serves both mechanical attachment and electrical connection purposes. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts and simplifies the manufacturing process
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic lighting device and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. A housing is formed for the light source support inside the housing. The light source support holds a light source that shines light onto a flame element. The flame element has an upper part shaped like a flame and a lower part extending in the opposite direction from the upper part allowing the flame element to move like a pendulum. The upper part can include a spherical ball that fits into a recess and the housing, and moves back and forth while being illuminated by the light source. In one embodiment, there is a circuit board in the housing, and the light source, as wealth an electromagnet to move the pendulum can both be mounted on the circuit board.