Flexible Neck Light Device for Glove Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting devices, such as flashlights and task lights, often struggle to be positioned effectively for illuminating work areas, particularly in applications like electrical or automotive work, where flexibility and adjustability are crucial.
Innovation Solution
A light device that is selectively attachable to a support device, such as a glove wrap, with a retractable and flexible neck, allowing the light unit to be oriented in various directions and configurations, using engagement mechanisms like C-shaped members, magnets, or hook-and-loop fasteners for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed-position light device is used, then the structure is simple, but the light cannot be positioned effectively to illuminate the work area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a flexible neck mechanism that allows the light unit to move and be positioned in various directions. The neck can be bent and adjusted to different angles, transforming a static light device into a dynamic one that adapts to different work areas and lighting needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the light device into distinct components: a housing, a flexible neck, and a light unit. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function independently - the housing contains the battery and electronics, the neck provides flexibility, and the light unit delivers illumination. The segmented design enables the light unit to be positioned separately from the housing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a retractable neck is added to allow light unit movement, then positioning flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible neck made of bendable material that allows the light unit to be oriented in various directions. This flexible connection replaces rigid mechanical joints, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining high adaptability for positioning the light at different angles and locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractable neck mechanism allows the light unit to be nested within or extended from the housing. When not in use, the light unit can be retracted into the housing, creating a compact form. When needed, it extends outward and can be positioned in various orientations, providing versatility without permanently increasing the device's footprint.
3Reliability
If engagement mechanisms are added for secure attachment, then attachment reliability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical fastening systems with magnetic engagement mechanisms. The magnets provide secure attachment to metal surfaces through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for screws, clips, or other mechanical fasteners. This substitution maintains reliable attachment while significantly improving ease of operation, as users can simply attach or detach the device by bringing it near the target surface.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments herein provide a light device that is selectively attachable to another device. For example, in some embodiments, the light device may be selectively attachable to a glove wrap that may be worn on a hand of a user. The light device may include a housing and a light unit coupled to the housing. The light unit may be selectively extendable from the housing, e.g., via a flexible neck. The light device may include an engagement mechanism to selectively attach the light device to the other device in any of multiple configurations. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.