Flame-Mimicking Lighting with RGBW LEDs and Moving Reflector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lighting devices lack the ability to effectively mimic the appearance and movement of a flame, limiting their use in applications that require a realistic flame-like effect.

Innovation Solution

The development of a lighting device that utilizes RGBW LEDs, a control system, and a moving reflector to simulate the color and movement of a flame, with parameters controllable via a mobile application using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication, and an integrated power supply for efficient operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional lighting devices are used, then the lighting function is provided, but the ability to mimic flame appearance and movement is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflame-mimicking capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple lighting elements (RGBW LEDs) into a single integrated lighting device, merging color generation, light emission, and flame-mimicking functionality into one unified structure. This allows the device to achieve flame-like effects while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for standard lighting fixtures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides general illumination, mimics flame appearance and movement, and offers customizable lighting effects through mobile application control. The device can be adapted to various fixtures (pendant lights, recessed lights, surface mounts) making it universally applicable across different lighting scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Illumination intensity

If a moving reflector is added to simulate flame movement, then the realism of flame effect is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflame effect realismVSAvoidmechanical structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a moving reflector that dynamically changes position to simulate the natural flickering and movement of flames. The reflector can rotate or shift angles to create varying light patterns that mimic flame behavior, adding realism while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure driven by a motor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The moving reflector operates with periodic motion patterns that replicate the natural rhythm of flame flickering. By implementing controlled rotational or oscillating movements at specific speeds and amplitudes, the device creates realistic flame-like visual effects without requiring complex continuous control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Ease of manufacture

If RGBW LEDs and control system are integrated, then the color and movement simulation of flame is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration simplicityVSAvoidcontrol system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system automatically manages the RGBW LED elements and moving reflector coordination without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates color mixing, brightness levels, and reflector movement patterns to maintain realistic flame simulation, reducing the need for complex external control infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical control systems with electronic and software-based control mechanisms. A microcontroller or processing unit manages the RGBW LED output and reflector motor control through electronic signals, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages, switches, or manual adjustment mechanisms while improving precision and reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 device achieves a realistic flame-like effect, allowing for versatile applications in various lighting fixtures and form factors, enhancing user control and customization options.

Implementation Method 1

A light emitting diode (LED) may generate light in a color that mimics a flame

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

A reflector may be positioned to receive the light and redirect the light to mimic an appearance and movement of a flame

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11927315B2Lighting device and related methods
Publication Date: 2024.03.12 VELAFLAME LLC
  • US11927315B2 patent drawing
  • US11927315B2 patent drawing
  • US11927315B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a lighting device configured to mimic the appearance of a flame. In one embodiment, the lighting device includes a power subsystem configured to receive an alternating current input and to generate a direct current output. The lighting device also includes a reflector to reflect light generated by a lighting subsystem. A movement subsystem may move the reflector to mimic the appearance of a flame. A communication subsystem may receive at least one parameter associated with at least one of the lighting subsystem and the movement subsystem. A control subsystem may implement the at least one parameter.