Wireless Inductive Lighting System for Model Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional model lighting systems using power cords are cumbersome, pose fire hazards, and are aesthetically unpleasing, while battery-powered alternatives suffer from acid leakage and corrosion during storage.
Innovation Solution
A wireless inductive lighting system comprising a Power Mat with a primary winding that generates a time-varying magnetic field to power inductive Tags, eliminating the need for power cords and batteries, with features like frequency control and automatic activation for varied lighting effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power cords are used to power model displays, then the models can be lit, but the system becomes cumbersome and poses fire hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection system (power cords and outlets) with a wireless electromagnetic field-based power transmission system. The base unit generates an electromagnetic field that inductively powers the model units without physical cable connections, eliminating the need to plug and unplug cords when repositioning models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary medium to transfer power from the base unit to the model units. This field-based intermediary replaces the direct mechanical electrical connection, allowing power transmission through space without physical contact, thus enabling easy repositioning while maintaining reliable lighting.
2Reliability
If multiple power cables are connected to a single outlet, then all models can be powered, but fire hazards and circuit breaker risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power transmission function across multiple independent wireless channels from a single base unit. Instead of concentrating multiple high-current cables at one outlet, the base unit distributes power wirelessly to multiple model units, dispersing the electrical load and eliminating the fire hazard of bundled power cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based power distribution system with a wireless electromagnetic field system. This substitution eliminates the physical presence of multiple power cables that create fire hazards, while still providing reliable power to all model units through inductive coupling.
3Shape
If power cables are hidden under fabric, then aesthetics improve, but the process becomes time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-hiding process with a wireless power transmission system. Since no physical cables are present, there is nothing to hide under fabric. The base unit and model units connect through electromagnetic fields, eliminating the time-consuming cable management process entirely while maintaining aesthetic appearance.
4Ease of operation
If battery-powered lighting is used, then power cord issues are eliminated, but battery acid leakage and corrosion occur during storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power system where the base unit can wirelessly power multiple model units simultaneously. The model units function as wireless receivers that can be charged or powered on-demand from the base unit, eliminating the need for disposable batteries while avoiding storage-related battery hazards. The system provides both portability and storage reliability.
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
Enables easy repositioning and storage of model displays, reduces fire hazards, and provides aesthetically pleasing lighting without battery-related issues, while allowing for flexible and efficient power delivery to multiple devices.
Implementation Method 1
A primary coil in the mat creates a time varying magnetic field that interacts with and delivers power to a secondary coil in the device to be charged
Implementation Method 2
A primary coil in the mat creates a time varying magnetic field that interacts with and delivers power to a secondary coil in the device to be charged
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is an induction-based lighting system designed to provide power to model displays and other similar applications. The first part of the system is the wireless Power Mat that is placed under the model houses and used as the base for the village, and contains a primary winding that interacts with secondary windings placed inside display components to provide lighting effects, such as one finds in model Christmas villages. The electrical characteristics of the primary winding can be controlled by a microcontroller to make lights in the models blink or change as a user desires.