Lighting Device Chemistry Detection Power Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Portable lighting devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust their power output based on the chemistry composition of their power sources, leading to suboptimal performance and reduced operational time.

Innovation Solution

A lighting device that includes a chemistry detection system to determine the composition of its power source, using internal resistance and operating voltage, and adjusts the power supplied to the light sources accordingly, allowing for high or low power modes based on the capacity of the power source.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If the lighting device supplies high power current to the light source, then the light illumination is enhanced, but the operational time is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight illuminationVSAvoidoperational time
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting device dynamically adjusts the power current supplied to the light source based on real-time detection of power source chemistry composition and state of charge. The control circuitry varies the current between high and low levels to optimize both illumination intensity and operational duration, transforming a static power delivery system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing battery conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the electrical parameter (current level) supplied to the light source based on detected battery chemistry type and state of charge. By detecting whether the battery is alkaline, lithium, or nickel-based and monitoring its charge level, the control circuitry adjusts the current parameter to match the power source's capacity, thereby extending operational time while maintaining adequate illumination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If the lighting device uses a fixed power supply mode, then the device complexity is reduced, but the performance optimization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidperformance optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting device performs self-diagnosis by automatically detecting the chemistry composition and state of charge of the inserted power source through its chemistry detection device. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or user knowledge of battery types, allowing the system to autonomously optimize its performance without adding significant complexity to the user interface or operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates a feedback loop where the chemistry detection device continuously monitors the power source characteristics and provides information to the control circuitry, which then adjusts the power current accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables performance optimization based on real-time battery status while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

This solution ensures optimal light output and extended operational time by matching the power supply to the capacity of the power source, enhancing the device's performance and usability in various applications.

Implementation Method 1

the chemistry detection device determines the chemistry composition of the power source based upon at least an internal resistance and the operating voltage of the power source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical Resistance: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS8120268B2Lighting device and method of control based on chemistry composition of power source
Publication Date: 2012.02.21 ENERGIZER BRANDS LLC
  • US8120268B2 patent drawing
  • US8120268B2 patent drawing
  • US8120268B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lighting device is generally illustrated having a light body having forward facing light sources including a visible white light source, visible colored light source and an infrared light source. Additionally, a side facing light source is provided. The light body also includes switches for activating the visible light sources and a three-position switch for activating the IR light source and the side facing light source. The light source of the lighting device may further be controlled based on a detected chemistry composition of the power source.