Flexible LED Flashlight with Segmented Light Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flashlights, both semi-adjustable and fully adjustable, suffer from limited field of view due to mechanical constraints and single light source configurations, resulting in dead zones and inadequate illumination along the length of the light element.
Innovation Solution
A modular flashlight design featuring a flexible light component with multiple LEDs distributed along its length, detachable connectors, and a user interface for controlling light arrays, allowing for 360-degree illumination and incremental light adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single light source is used at the distal end of a flexible wire, then the flashlight can be directed toward a specific area, but the light coverage is limited and dead zones are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single light source into multiple LED segments distributed along the flexible light component. This segmentation allows different portions of the light component to illuminate different areas, eliminating dead zones while maintaining the ability to direct light toward specific areas by controlling which LED segments are activated.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a swiveling joint is used to achieve greater field of view, then the flashlight can be adjusted, but mechanical limits create dead zones where no light can be projected
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on a single swiveling joint with mechanical limits, the patent segments the light source into multiple LEDs along a flexible component that can be positioned independently, eliminating dead zones created by mechanical joint limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point light source with angular adjustment (one dimension of rotation) to a distributed linear array of light sources that can be positioned in multiple spatial configurations, adding dimensional flexibility to overcome mechanical joint limitations.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple LEDs are distributed along the flexible light component, then comprehensive illumination is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple LED elements into an integrated flexible light component assembly, combining the LEDs, flexible substrate, and electrical connections into a single modular unit that simplifies installation and reduces overall system complexity despite containing multiple light-emitting elements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with detachable connectors is used, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal detachable connector designs that can accommodate variations in assembly tolerances through self-aligning features and forgiving mechanical interfaces, enabling modular functionality without requiring extremely tight manufacturing precision while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connections.
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 modular flashlight provides comprehensive illumination along its length, eliminating dead zones and enabling flexible directionality and modular functionality, while also allowing remote monitoring and control through wireless communication.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) distributed along the flexible light component between its proximal end and its distal end
Data Source
AI summary
A flashlight having a housing, a light-end assembly, and a user interface. The light-end assembly, which may be coupled to an end of the housing, may comprise a flexible light component having a proximal end and a distal end. A first plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) may be distributed on the first flexible light component between the proximal end and the distal end. The flexible light component may include a flexible, semi-rigid structure to maintain the flexible light component in a desired shape or position.