Fiber Optic Illumination in Poured Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing fiber optic illumination in walkways are expensive and limited by prefabricated components, which restrict surface area and shape options, often resulting in excessive lighting that detracts from aesthetics and causes night blindness.
Innovation Solution
A method involving embedding fiber optic strands in poured surfaces using a positioning apparatus that supports the strands during pouring, allowing for customizable patterns and shapes without visible apparatus above the surface, with the strands being trimmed flush after the surface sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If prefabricated components with embedded fiber optics are used, then fiber optic illumination is achieved, but cost increases and surface area/shape options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the illumination installation into separate components: fiber optic strands are installed independently within the poured surface rather than using pre-assembled units. This allows the surface to be poured in custom shapes and sizes while embedding the illumination elements throughout, resolving the contradiction between cost-effectiveness and design versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber optic strands are positioned and secured to the formwork before the pouring process begins. This preliminary placement allows the strands to be embedded within the final surface at the desired locations and patterns, enabling custom surface areas and shapes without requiring expensive prefabricated components.
2Illumination intensity
If more light is supplied to illuminate the walkway, then visibility is improved, but aesthetic purpose is frustrated and night blindness is caused
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides illumination at specific localized points along the walkway where fiber optic strands are embedded, rather than using uniform overhead lighting. This localized approach delivers sufficient light for visibility while avoiding excessive illumination that would cause night blindness or wash out the surrounding scenery, thus resolving the contradiction between visibility and aesthetic/harmful considerations.
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 cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing fiber optic illumination in poured surfaces, providing controlled lighting without excess illumination, suitable for various materials like concrete and plastic.
Implementation Method 1
at least one fiber optic strand having an input end and an output end; optically communicating each input end to the light source
Data Source
AI summary
A system for forming illuminated poured surfaces is provided. The system embeds fiber optic strands into poured surfaces during the formation thereof. Each fiber optic strand may be supported by a positioning apparatus prior to and during the pouring and setting of the poured surface, wherein no part of the positioning apparatus is visible above a top surface of the operable poured surface, yet the fiber optic strands are exposed near the top surface so as to form desired patterns of points of light.