Vehicle Lift Lighting Modules for Underside Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lift systems and wheel alignment systems face challenges with portable lighting fixtures that often require frequent recharging and pose safety threats, while integrated illumination systems may not provide adequate lighting for precise mechanical adjustments underneath vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle lift system with elongate, pivotable lighting modules mounted adjacent to the support structure, utilizing high-intensity light emitting diodes and fiber optics, and protected by a transparent or translucent cover, providing illumination directed towards the underside of the vehicle without shining in the mechanic's eyes, and automatically shutting off when the lift is below a certain height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If portable lighting fixtures are used for vehicle servicing, then illumination is provided for mechanical adjustments underneath the vehicle, but the mechanic's productivity is diminished and safety threats arise from frequent recharging or corded operation
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is integrated directly into the vehicle lift structure, combining the lifting function with the illumination function. The lighting modules are mounted on the lift arms and move with the lift, eliminating the need for separate portable lighting fixtures and thereby eliminating recharging interruptions that reduce productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system serves itself by being permanently installed and powered through the lift's electrical system. The lights automatically illuminate the work area whenever the lift is raised, without requiring manual intervention for setup or recharging, thus maintaining continuous operation and high productivity.
2Illumination intensity
If portable lighting fixtures are used, then illumination is provided for vehicle servicing, but safety threats arise from frequent recharging or corded operation
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the lighting system into the lift structure, the patent eliminates the use of portable battery-operated or corded fixtures that pose safety risks. The fixed installation ensures reliable, consistent operation without the hazards of battery recharging or extension cord usage in the service area.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is permanently installed and automatically activated when the lift is in the working position, eliminating the need for manual setup or recharging operations that could compromise safety. The system provides consistent, reliable illumination without human intervention.
3Productivity
If integrated illumination systems are installed in vehicle lift systems, then productivity and safety are improved, but adequate lighting for precise mechanical adjustments may not be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting modules are positioned to provide localized illumination directly at the work areas where mechanical adjustments are performed. The lights are mounted on the lift arms and directed downward to illuminate specific zones underneath the vehicle, ensuring adequate lighting intensity precisely where needed for detailed mechanical work.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is dynamically positioned on the movable lift arms, allowing the illumination to follow the vehicle's position. As the lift raises or lowers the vehicle, the lighting modules move with it, maintaining optimal illumination distance and angle for precise mechanical adjustments throughout the entire range of motion.
4Illumination intensity
If lighting modules are mounted on the support structure, then consistent illumination is provided for vehicle servicing, but the lighting may shine in the mechanic's eyes
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting modules are equipped with directional fixtures that focus illumination downward onto the work areas underneath the vehicle. The light distribution is designed to concentrate brightness on the mechanical components being serviced while minimizing upward light scatter that could enter the mechanic's eyes from above.
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
Enhances mechanic productivity and safety by providing consistent, shadow-free illumination for vehicle servicing and alignment procedures, reducing the need for frequent recharging and minimizing safety hazards.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one lighting module can include an assembly of light emitting diodes and / or fiber optics
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle lift system includes a support structure (12,14) having a top surface (14,50) for supporting a vehicle supported by the vehicle lift system, and at least one lighting module (32A,32B,32C,32). The lighting module (32A,32B,32C,32) is mounted to the top surface (14,50) of the support structure (12,14). The lighting module (32A,32B,32C,32) is configured to illuminate a region of the vehicle, for example, but not limited to, the underside of the vehicle. The lighting module (32A,32B,32C,32) can be mounted generally flush relative to the top surface (14,50) of the support structure (12,14). In a vehicle wheel alignment lift system, the lighting module (32A,32B,32C,32) can be disposed adjacent a movable support surface of the wheel runway apparatus to provide illumination during wheel alignment procedures.