Flexible LED Illumination with Collapsible Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photographic lighting devices are bulky, time-consuming to set up, and lack portability and versatility, making them unsuitable for various photographic settings.
Innovation Solution
A portable, lightweight device with a self-supporting circular reflector and flexible LED strips that can be easily folded and unfolded, powered by a battery pack or wall outlet, and controlled via a smart device app for adjustable lighting effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting devices are used, then sufficient illumination is provided, but the devices are bulky and lack portability
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the lighting system into a collapsible reflector structure with flexible LED strips that can be folded into a compact form. The reflector is divided into multiple collapsible panels that can be collapsed along fold lines, transforming from an extended reflective surface to a compact portable form factor while maintaining sufficient light output when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic structural characteristics where the reflector can transition between collapsed and extended states. The collapsible structure allows the device to be compact for portability yet expand to provide sufficient reflective surface area and light output when in use, adapting the physical form to different operational requirements
2Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting devices are used, then adequate lighting is achieved, but setup time is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-configured with flexible LED strips already mounted on the collapsible reflector structure during manufacturing. The adhesive-backed LED strips are permanently attached to the reflector panels, eliminating the need for time-consuming assembly during field setup. Users simply need to collapse or extend the pre-assembled structure rather than assemble components on-site
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible structure is segmented into panels connected by fold lines, allowing rapid deployment by simply unfolding the pre-assembled unit. This segmented design enables the large reflective surface to be quickly deployed without complex assembly steps, reducing setup time while maintaining adequate light output
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid frame structures are used to support lights, then structural stability is achieved, but portability and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces rigid frame structures with flexible materials including fabric-covered collapsible panels and adhesive-backed flexible LED strips. The flexible strips maintain their shape and provide structural support when extended while allowing the overall structure to be collapsed for portability. This flexible construction achieves both structural stability during use and adaptability for folding and storage
Solution Approach 2:
The structure transitions from a static rigid frame to a dynamic collapsible design where the reflector panels can be folded along predetermined lines. The flexible LED strips and adhesive mounting system enable the structure to maintain stability when deployed while being easily collapsed for transport, providing both structural integrity and folding capability
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
Provides flexible and convenient illumination with high light output from a compact size, allowing for easy setup and use in various environments, enhancing portability and versatility in photographic applications.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on a flexible strip and operatively connected to the circular reflective surface within the perimeter
Implementation Method 2
a circular reflective surface having a perimeter; a resilient frame attached to the reflective surface at the perimeter
Data Source
AI summary
A combination illumination and reflector device 12 is disclosed having a reflective surface 11 and a plurality of flexible LED strips 13. Each of the flexible strips 13 are electrically connected to an LED controller 14. Power is provided by battery 15 or alternate power source 18. The LED controller 14 generally provides an on off switch to the LEDs 32 of the flexible strips 13. However controller 14 may also be connected, either by hard wire or over-the-air signal, to a smart device 17 running a light control application 16. A resilient frame, such as a flexible spring steel, is sewn into a fabric sleeve/edge seam about the perimeter 21 of the reflective surface 11 which provides a stand-alone structure when in an operative position.