Lamp Mounting System With Self-Aligning Cones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing illuminators, such as those using xenon arc lamps for surgical site illumination, face challenges in precisely aligning lamp and reflector modules with collection optics, requiring high mechanical aptitude and time for replacement and reconnection.
Innovation Solution
A non-interfering lamp mounting system with countersinks and moveable electrically-insulated mounting cones allows for easy alignment and secure positioning of lamp modules, ensuring proper alignment with collection optics without specialized training or tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional lamp mounting systems are used, then alignment precision may be maintained, but operator skill requirements and replacement time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lamp module incorporates self-aligning features including countersinks and moveable mounting cones that automatically guide and maintain precise alignment between the lamp/reflector assembly and collection optics during replacement, eliminating the need for operator skill in alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is pre-configured with countersinks and moveable cones positioned to automatically align the lamp module with collection optics upon insertion, ensuring precise alignment is achieved before the replacement process is complete
2Productivity
If lamp modules are designed for easy replacement, then operator skill requirements decrease, but alignment consistency may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-aligning mechanical features (countersinks, moveable mounting cones) that automatically ensure consistent alignment between lamp modules and collection optics, making alignment consistency independent of operator skill or replacement speed
Solution Approach 2:
The lamp module is segmented into replaceable components with built-in alignment features, allowing rapid replacement while maintaining alignment consistency through the modular design's inherent alignment mechanisms
3Manufacturing precision
If complex alignment mechanisms are used, then alignment precision improves, but device complexity and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses simple self-aligning features (countersinks, moveable cones) rather than complex adjustment mechanisms, achieving precise alignment through the inherent geometry of the components rather than complex mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The moveable mounting cones act as intermediaries between the lamp module and fixed mounting structure, providing a simple mechanical interface that facilitates precise alignment without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms
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
Simplifies the replacement process of lamp modules, ensuring consistent alignment and efficient light transmission, reducing operator skill requirements and time, while maintaining low noise and effective heat management.
Implementation Method 1
a heatsink surrounded by a framework assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A lamp mounting system for an illuminator is provided. The lamp mounting system includes a framework assembly having separate, spaced-apart front and rear mounting components. The front and rear mounting components are movable relatively toward and away from each other between open and retracted positions. The lamp mounting system also includes a separate lamp module having opposite ends. The front and rear mounting components, in the retracted position, capture and suspend the lamp module therebetween in a manner ensuring proper alignment between the lamp module and collection optics.