Illuminated Container with Embedded LED Foam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container illumination systems are often expensive, difficult to repair, and impractical to retrofit or maintain, especially when lights fail or batteries need replacement, as they require electrical connections to the container.
Innovation Solution
An illuminated foam or aerogel material with integrated light emitting diodes and a touch-sensitive on/off mechanism, allowing for easy retrofitting and use in various container shapes without electrical connection, featuring a removable light emitting device for maintenance and wireless control options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lights are electrically wired to the container, then illumination reliability is improved, but device complexity and repair difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination device is extracted from the container structure and made as a separate, removable component. The light source and power supply are contained within a self-contained unit that can be independently handled, removing the complexity of electrical wiring between the container and illumination system.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system is segmented into separate functional components: the light source, power supply (battery), and housing are distinct elements that can be independently accessed, replaced, or repaired without affecting the container structure.
2Reliability
If lights are electrically wired to the container, then illumination stability is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination unit is divided into serviceable segments, with the light source and battery as separate replaceable components. This segmentation allows users to replace only the faulty component (e.g., just the LED or just the battery) without replacing the entire illumination system or dealing with complex wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination device is designed for user-friendly self-service maintenance, with easily accessible components that can be replaced by the end user without requiring technical expertise or specialized tools. The snap-fit or magnetic mounting enables simple installation and removal.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If batteries are integrated into the container, then power supply reliability is improved, but ease of battery replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply is segmented as a separate, modular component within the illumination device. This allows the battery to be independently accessed and replaced without disassembling the container or dealing with integrated power systems. The battery compartment is designed for easy access and tool-free replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery system transitions from a static, permanently integrated power supply to a dynamic, easily replaceable component. The illumination device accommodates different battery types and configurations, allowing flexible adaptation and straightforward replacement when power is depleted.
4Illumination intensity
If illumination device is customized for specific container, then illumination effectiveness is improved, but adaptability to other containers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination device is designed with universal mounting features and adjustable positioning capabilities that allow it to effectively illuminate various container types and sizes. The device can be adapted to different containers through simple positioning adjustments rather than custom fabrication, maintaining illumination effectiveness across multiple applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination device incorporates adjustable parameters such as light direction, intensity, and positioning to optimize illumination effectiveness for different container configurations. These parameter adjustments allow the same device to perform effectively in various container types without requiring physical customization.
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 cost-effective, easy-to-maintain, and versatile illumination for containers without the need for electrical connections, ensuring reliable lighting and adaptability to different container sizes and types.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light emitting device positioned within the foam material
Data Source
AI summary
A container apparatus can include a container and an illumination apparatus positioned within the container. The illumination apparatus includes a cushioning section, and a light emitting device positioned within the cushioning section. The cushioning section can be comprised of solid foam. The light emitting device can be a light emitting diode.