Flagpole Lighting Dome Assembly for Dark Sky Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flagpole lighting systems are inefficient and often obstruct the flag's illumination, and most are not eligible for DARK SKY certification due to their ground-mounted or downlight configurations.
Innovation Solution
A flagpole lighting device featuring a mounting stem connected to a flagpole truck, with a dome assembly containing a reflective illumination dome and light sources mounted inside, providing focused downward lighting while preventing upward emission, and including a mounting structure with radial arms and receptacles for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If ground mounted lighting systems are used, then flag illumination is provided, but illumination efficiency is poor and DARK SKY certification is not eligible
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system inverts the conventional ground-mounted approach by mounting lights at the top of the flagpole with downward-facing illumination. This inversion eliminates upward light emission that causes sky pollution, directs light precisely onto the flag, and improves illumination efficiency while maintaining DARK SKY certification eligibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of light pollution into benefit by using a dome-shaped reflector that captures and redirects light downward onto the flag. The dome structure that could potentially trap light instead becomes a mechanism to concentrate and direct illumination efficiently, eliminating upward emission while enhancing flag visibility.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If downlight mounting on top end of flagpole is used, then DARK SKY certification is eligible, but mounting structure obscures and interferes with efficient illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dome-shaped (spheroidal) reflector structure that efficiently directs light downward onto the flag. The curved surface optimizes light reflection and distribution, providing uniform illumination across the flag surface while maintaining a compact profile that minimizes obstruction and interference with the illuminated area.
3Reliability
If radial mounting arms are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure employs universal mounting receptacles that can accommodate various flagpole truck configurations. The radial arms with standardized receptacles provide secure attachment while maintaining design simplicity through modular, interchangeable components that adapt to different pole types without requiring custom complex structures.
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
The solution provides efficient, DARK SKY compliant illumination for flags, ensuring uniform 360-degree lighting without obstructing the flag's view and allowing for universal mounting on various flagpole trucks.
Implementation Method 1
light from the lighting source is reflected in the illumination dome, such that the flagpole lighting device provides lighting for a flag mounted on the flagpole
Data Source
AI summary
A flagpole lighting device includes a mounting stem, a dome assembly including an illumination dome and at least one light source; a mounting structure with a central portion and mounting arms; and mounting receptacles each including a receptacle fastener, a receptacle body, and body flanges; such that the flagpole lighting device is configured to be connected to a flagpole truck that is mounted on a top of a flagpole, such that the flagpole lighting device provides lighting for a flag mounted on the flagpole.