Flame simulating assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric fireplaces often provide unconvincing flame simulation effects due to limitations in the arrangement of light sources and flicker elements, which affect the realism of the flame images from different observer perspectives.
Innovation Solution
A flame simulating assembly with rotatable flicker elements and light sources positioned at a preselected elevation above a base, using paddle elements to intermittently reflect light onto a screen, creating realistic images of flickering flames and glowing embers by varying the light intensity and direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If light sources are positioned at a preselected elevation proximal to the flicker element, then the realism of flame simulation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical elevation dimension by positioning the light source at a preselected elevation above the base using a holding bracket. This vertical positioning in three-dimensional space allows the light source to be proximal to the flicker element, creating realistic flame images on the screen while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint, thus resolving the contradiction between realism and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding bracket acts as an intermediary component that supports and positions the light source at the required elevation. This intermediary structure enables precise spatial arrangement of the light source relative to the flicker element and screen, achieving realistic flame simulation without requiring complex direct integration of all components.
2Reliability
If paddle elements intermittently reflect light to create flickering effects, then the visual realism is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotatable rod with paddle elements that rotate to intermittently reflect light, creating a dynamic flickering effect. The rotation mechanism allows the paddle elements to move between different positions, reflecting light at varying intervals to simulate natural flame flickering. This dynamic approach achieves visual realism while tolerating broader manufacturing tolerances compared to static positioning systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating rod produces periodic interruption of light reflection as paddle elements pass through specific positions during rotation. This periodic action creates the characteristic flickering pattern of flames, where light is reflected intermittently rather than continuously. The periodic nature of the effect achieves visual realism while the rotation mechanism is simpler to manufacture than precision static positioning systems.
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 more realistic and convincing flame and ember simulations by ensuring the light sources are proximal to the flicker element, enhancing the flickering effect and creating a more immersive experience with adjustable light intensity and direction.
Implementation Method 1
a number of paddle elements located in respective predetermined locations on the rod, for intermittently reflecting the light from the light source(s) from the paddle elements to the screen respectively as the flicker element rotates about the axis
Data Source
AI summary
A flame simulating assembly including one or more light sources for producing light, a screen to which the light from the light source(s) is directed, to provide a number of images of flames thereon viewable via a front surface of the screen, and a rotatable flicker element. The flicker element includes an elongate rod defined by an axis thereof about which the rod is rotatable. The rod is positioned at a preselected elevation above a base of the flame simulating assembly. The flicker element also includes a number of paddle elements located on the rod, for intermittently reflecting the light from the light sources from the paddle elements to the screen respectively as the flicker element rotates about the axis, to provide the images of flames on the screen. The light sources are located substantially at the preselected elevation and proximal to the flicker element.