Layered Flame Display Mechanism for 3D Electric Fireplaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric fireplaces lack the ability to simulate a realistic, three-dimensional flame effect that closely mimics traditional wood or gas burning fireplaces.
Innovation Solution
A simulated flame mechanism using multiple video display surfaces oriented at different elevations and angular orientations, combined with dedicated video processors, to create a three-dimensional flame appearance, enhanced by features like holographic films and electrochromic glass.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a single video display surface is used, then the device complexity is low, but the flame appearance is two-dimensional and not realistic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single 2D video display surface to multiple video display surfaces arranged in a stepped configuration at different elevations and angular orientations. This dimensional expansion creates a three-dimensional flame appearance by projecting flame images across multiple spatial planes, giving the illusion of depth and volume that a single surface cannot achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The flame simulation is divided into multiple segments, with each video display surface projecting a portion of the flame image. The stepped configuration segments the visual field into distinct spatial zones, allowing each surface to contribute a specific portion of the overall flame effect, thereby creating a more realistic and immersive three-dimensional appearance.
2Reliability
If multiple video display surfaces are used, then the three-dimensional flame appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control of the video display surfaces through individually adjustable angular orientations and elevations. This allows the system to adapt the configuration of multiple surfaces to optimize the three-dimensional flame effect from different viewing angles, enhancing realism while providing flexibility to manage complexity through programmable adjustment rather than fixed rigid structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The video display surfaces utilize color variation and optical effects, including holographic films and electrochromic glass, to enhance the perceived realism of the flame simulation. These optical enhancements create depth cues and visual complexity that improve the three-dimensional appearance without requiring additional physical surfaces, thereby addressing realism concerns while controlling device complexity.
3Shape
If video display surfaces are spaced apart and oriented at different angles, then the three-dimensional effect is enhanced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable and reconfigurable mounting mechanisms for the video display surfaces, allowing angular orientations and spacing to be modified after assembly. This dynamic capability reduces manufacturing precision requirements during production, as the surfaces can be precisely positioned and oriented during installation or through programmable adjustment, thereby achieving the desired three-dimensional effect without demanding extremely tight manufacturing tolerances.
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 mechanism produces a highly realistic and immersive three-dimensional flame simulation, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of electric fireplaces.
Implementation Method 1
a panel using organic light emitting diodes, a liquid crystal display, a LED display
Data Source
AI summary
A layered simulated flame mechanism for use in an electric fireplace, the layered simulated flame mechanism comprising: two or more video display surfaces, spaced apart, and oriented in layers relative to each other by one or more of (i) different elevations, (ii) different orientations in a horizontal plane, or (iii) different orientations in a vertical plane, one or more dedicated video processors transmitting flame videos onto each of the display surfaces, generating a simulated flame on each of the video display surfaces, wherein the spacing and orientation of the two or more video display surfaces relative to each other creates a three-dimensional flame appearance.