Removable LED Vehicle Sign Mounting for Uniform Backlighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing illuminated vehicle signs lack uniform light dispersion and require complex assembly, making them inefficient and difficult to maintain.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained illuminated sign with LED lighting embedded in a frameless design, using edge-lit panels to provide uniform backlighting and a removable mounting frame for easy installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If incandescent bulbs are used to illuminate the sign, then the sign can be illuminated, but the light dispersion is not uniform throughout the full display area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/incandescent bulb illumination system with an LED-based illumination system. The LED light source is positioned behind the front panel and provides uniform illumination across the entire display area, eliminating the non-uniform light dispersion problem associated with incandescent bulbs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the illumination parameters by using LED technology instead of incandescent bulbs. This parameter change results in more uniform light distribution, longer lifespan, and improved energy efficiency while maintaining the illumination function.
2Illumination intensity
If a hollow compartment with glass panel and incandescent bulbs is assembled, then the sign can be illuminated, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the illumination system with the sign structure itself. The LED light source is integrated behind the front panel, eliminating the need for a separate hollow compartment and glass panel assembly. This integration simplifies the overall structure and reduces assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the illumination function from a separate complex assembly and integrates it directly into the sign structure. The LED backlight system is positioned behind the front panel, removing the need for a separate hollow compartment and simplifying the overall design.
3Ease of operation
If strip lights are mounted externally above or below the lettering, then the sign can be illuminated, but the light dispersion uniformity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spatial dimension of illumination by positioning the LED light source in the plane behind the front panel rather than mounting strips externally above or below the lettering. This dimensional change provides uniform illumination across the entire display area, eliminating the non-uniform light distribution problem.
4Strength
If the sign is permanently mounted to the vehicle, then the sign is secure, but replacement or customization is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sign system into a removable sign component and a separate mounting structure. The sign can be detached and replaced without damaging the vehicle, while the mounting structure remains securely attached. This segmentation enables easy replacement and customization while maintaining secure mounting.
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 solution ensures consistent and uniform illumination of vehicle signage, simplifying installation and allowing for easy replacement or customization of signs without damaging the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
a light source comprising a plurality of LEDs, the light source being positioned in the space between the front and rear panels and configured to emit light that emanates from the front panel
Implementation Method 2
a light dispersion panel affixed to the rear panel
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained illuminated sign for mounting on a vehicle is disclosed. The sign includes a front panel, a rear panel situated opposite and substantially parallel to the front panel in spaced relation therefrom to define a space therebetween, and a light source comprising a plurality of LEDs. The light source is positioned between the front and rear panels and is configured to emit light that emanates from the front panel. The front panel is thus backlit to display indicia. A system for supporting a self-contained illuminated sign on a vehicle is also disclosed. The system includes the sign and a separate mounting frame mountable on a vehicle. The mounting frame is configured to removably receive the sign and, when the sign is received in the mounting frame, to surround a perimeter of the sign while permitting visibility of the front display area. Related methods are also disclosed.