LED Flare With Integrated Rechargeable Battery and Magnet Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighted batons or flashlights used for directing traffic are not durable, require frequent battery maintenance, and lack versatility for use without a person holding them, especially in harsh conditions.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical LED flare with integrated LEDs, a hanger for hanging, a magnet for attachment to metal surfaces, rechargeable batteries with a built-in charger, and a stand for independent use, along with a configuration that allows for various light patterns and easy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lighted batons are used for directing traffic, then they provide basic visibility, but they lack durability in harsh conditions and require frequent battery maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism through the integrated rechargeable battery system with external charging capability. The battery can be recharged in-situ without removal, allowing the device to service itself and eliminate the need for user intervention in battery replacement or maintenance, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the battery, charging circuit, and flare body into a single integrated unit. The rechargeable battery is housed within the waterproof body with integrated charging contacts and circuitry, combining multiple functions (power storage, charging, protection) into one cohesive system that improves reliability while reducing maintenance burden
2Reliability
If conventional flashlights are made more durable to withstand harsh treatment, then they can survive drops and inclement conditions, but they become heavy and cause user fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a waterproof and impact-resistant body construction that protects internal components without excessive weight. The housing is designed to withstand drops and inclement conditions while maintaining a weight that does not cause user fatigue during extended use, balancing durability with portability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite material construction for the flare body, combining materials that provide both protective durability and weight efficiency. The housing integrates materials that resist water penetration and impact while keeping the overall device weight manageable for handheld operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lighted batons are designed for handheld use, then they provide directional lighting, but they cannot be configured for use without a person holding them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by providing both handheld operation and stationary mounting capabilities. The device can be used conventionally in hand or mounted on vehicles and surfaces using the integrated magnet and mounting bracket, making it adaptable to multiple usage scenarios without requiring separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the mounting function as a separate, removable component. The magnet and mounting bracket can be attached or removed as needed, allowing the device to transition between handheld and stationary modes. This extraction of the mounting capability adds versatility without permanently increasing device complexity
4Ease of operation
If conventional devices use replaceable batteries, then they can be swapped when depleted, but users must maintain backup batteries and separate charging equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the battery, charging circuit, and device body into an integrated system. The rechargeable battery is permanently housed within the waterproof body with integrated charging contacts, eliminating the need for separate battery packs and charging equipment. Users only need the device itself, reducing the quantity of components while maintaining ease of operation through simple external charging
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 LED flare provides durable, versatile, and efficient lighting that can be used without manual handling, with rechargeable batteries and a charger system that reduces maintenance needs, and offers customizable light patterns for improved visibility in various conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet for attachment to metal surfaces
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are embedded in the body of the flare
Data Source
AI summary
A LED flare and system for use to provide greater visibility in any light conditions, particularly in low light. The flare comprises an elongated housing that is generally cylindrical with a flat side. It has a handle at one end and a plurality of LEDs positioned along the outer periphery. A switch located on the elongated housing operates the flare. The flare also includes a re-chargeable battery encased in the housing for powering the flare and a circuit for delivering power and operational control from the battery to the LEDs upon activation by the switch. A set of contacts positioned on the outside of the housing deliver a charge to the battery. The flare includes an attachment device for holding an external charger in place against the contacts during charging operation. An individual flare may be part of a system that also includes other flares and a carrying case with an integrated charger, one or more flare stands and charger accessories.