Flexible Light Transmitting Element with Adjacent LED Mounting
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable flexible light transmitting devices lack optimal light transmission efficiency, adaptability, and are often expensive, despite previous proposals.
Innovation Solution
A portable flexible light transmitting device comprising a self-contained LED/battery component and a flexible light transmitting element, where the LED is positioned immediately adjacent to the element, allowing efficient light transmission and adaptable configurations, using a printed circuit board and housing with end caps for mounting and switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the LED is embedded in the light transmitting element, then the light transmission efficiency is improved, but the adaptability and flexibility of the device are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary mounting structure (housing with end caps) that positions the LED immediately adjacent to the light transmitting element without embedding it. This mediator allows optimal light coupling while preserving the flexibility and adaptability of both the LED and the light transmitting element, resolving the contradiction between light transmission efficiency and device adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic positioning system where the LED can be positioned at various locations along the light transmitting element using adjustable end caps and mounting structures. This dynamic arrangement allows the device to adapt to different configurations and applications while maintaining efficient light transmission through precise positioning.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom-length light transmitting elements are manufactured, then the adaptability of the device is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light transmitting element into modular segments that can be connected using coupling structures. This segmentation allows custom-length devices to be assembled from standard-length segments, avoiding the need to manufacture custom-length elements for each application and thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining length adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables length adaptation through parameter changes in the assembly configuration rather than manufacturing parameters. By adjusting the number of modular segments and their arrangement, devices of various lengths can be created from standard components, maintaining cost-effectiveness while achieving the desired adaptability.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple LEDs are used to increase light output, then the illumination intensity is improved, but the power consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple LEDs into a single integrated mounting structure within the housing, sharing common power supply connections and control circuitry. This combining approach increases illumination intensity while minimizing the increase in device complexity by consolidating shared components and reducing redundant structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the mounting structure and circuitry to be universal and multi-functional, supporting multiple LEDs with a single power connection system and control mechanism. This multi-functionality allows the device to achieve higher illumination intensity without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same structural elements serve multiple purposes.
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 excellent light transmission with adaptability and cost-effectiveness, enabling various lengths and configurations while maintaining efficient power usage.
Implementation Method 1
At least one LED (of virtually any color). The term 'immediately adjacent' in the specification and claims means that an LED is directly aligned with an end of the light transmitting element
Implementation Method 2
a flexible light transmitting element positioned immediately adjacent but not embedding the LED(s)... so that light is efficiently transmitting from the LED along the light transmitting element
Data Source
AI summary
A light transmitting device is extremely adaptable and provides a great amount of light for a given battery power. A flexible elongated polymeric light transmitting element has first and second ends with at least one LED immediately adjacent (e. g. touching but not embedded in) one or both of the ends so that light is efficiently transmitted from an LED along the light transmitting element. At least one battery powers the LED. A module including a printed circuit board, electrical switch, and the LED and battery, is positioned within a housing having open ends so that one or both ends of the light transmitting element receive light directly from an LED. A number of button batteries, or a rechargeable battery with USB port, may be mounted on the module, and the circuitry of the printed circuit board may include an integrated circuit.