Locker with illuminated indicia
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern athletic and sporting facility lockers lack innovative features to enhance both functionality and aesthetics, particularly in terms of visual appeal and customization options.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of illuminated panels with translucent materials and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that can display graphic art, logos, or text, allowing for customizable and dynamic lighting effects, which can be easily updated by replacing graphics sheets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional non-illuminated panels are used in lockers, then the structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the aesthetic appeal and visual appeal are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into multiple functional layers: a rigid support structure, a translucent graphic sheet containing artwork or logos, and an LED lighting system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity - the graphic sheet can be independently replaced for customization without replacing the entire panel assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
A translucent graphic sheet serves as an intermediary between the LED light source and the external environment. This intermediary diffuses and transmits light while displaying visual content, creating the illuminated effect without requiring complex optical systems or direct light exposure of internal components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed graphics are incorporated into locker panels, then customization options are limited, but the manufacturing process remains straightforward
Solution Approach 1:
The graphic element is separated as an independent replaceable sheet rather than being permanently integrated into the panel structure. This allows different graphic sheets to be manufactured separately and swapped out easily, providing customization without requiring complex multi-step manufacturing processes for each variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual characteristics of the panel can be changed by replacing the graphic sheet with different designs, colors, or team logos. This parameter change approach allows extensive customization while maintaining a consistent manufacturing process for the underlying panel structure.
3Illumination intensity
If illuminated panels are added to lockers, then aesthetic value and luxurious appearance are enhanced, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination function, graphic display, and panel structure are merged into a single integrated assembly. The LED lights are positioned behind the translucent graphic sheet, combining lighting and visual display functions in one component that replaces a standard panel, thereby enhancing aesthetics without adding separate complex subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The illuminated panel assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural closure for the locker compartment, displays visual content through the graphic sheet, and provides illumination. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, mitigating the increase in overall device complexity.
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 enhances the aesthetic value of lockers, providing a luxurious and modern look while allowing for easy customization, thereby improving the recruitment appeal of sports teams and clubs.
Implementation Method 1
light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that can display graphic art, logos, or text
Data Source
AI summary
A locker assembly having a backlit indicia includes a pair of sidewalls and a horizontal top defining a locker enclosure. At least one shelf extends at least partially between the sidewalls and defines a storage space in the locker enclosure. An illuminated panel extending at least partially between the sidewalls includes: an at least partially translucent sheet, a plurality of powered lighting elements disposed under the sheet, and a lighting enclosure cooperating with the panel to enclose the lighting elements.