Magnetic Light Source Mounting and Charging for Portable Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable and rechargeable electric lighting systems face challenges in cumbersome recharging processes and difficult assembly/disassembly of components, with unsightly connection mechanisms, limiting their usability and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
An electric lighting system featuring a light source holder with magnets for secure attachment and easy release of electric light sources, a platform charger with magnetic contacts for efficient charging, and swappable light sources and holders for varied visual effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnetic attachment mechanisms are used for securing light sources, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional magnetic components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical attachment mechanisms (screws, clips, or snap-fits) with a magnetic attachment system. Magnets embedded in the base and light source holder provide automatic attraction and securement when components are brought together, eliminating the need for manual fastening operations while simplifying the user interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic attachment system provides self-aligning and self-securing functionality. When the light source is brought near the base, the magnetic field automatically guides and secures the components together without requiring precise manual alignment or activation by the user, making the assembly process intuitive and effortless.
2Adaptability or versatility
If swappable light sources with different visual features are provided, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple interchangeable components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal base unit with standardized magnetic attachment mechanisms that can accommodate multiple types of light sources with different visual characteristics (flame-like, LED, colored, patterned). This single base serves multiple functions by supporting various light source configurations, eliminating the need for different bases for each light type.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is divided into separate, interchangeable modules: a base unit and multiple light source units. This segmentation allows users to mix and match different light sources with a single base, creating versatility without requiring complex integrated designs. Each module can be independently selected, replaced, or upgraded.
3Ease of operation
If rechargeable battery systems are used in light sources, then portability is improved, but recharging becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables preliminary charging actions by allowing users to charge light sources in advance during periods when they are not needed for illumination. The magnetic attachment mechanism facilitates quick connection to charging surfaces or bases, enabling users to prepare charged light sources ahead of time for outdoor activities or emergencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic attachment system replaces traditional mechanical charging connectors (plugs and sockets requiring precise alignment) with magnetic connectors that automatically align and connect when brought together. This substitution significantly reduces the time and effort required to connect light sources for 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
Facilitates easy assembly, disassembly, and recharging of electric lighting systems, allowing for interchangeable light sources and holders with different visual features, enhancing usability and aesthetic flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
one or more magnets disposed in the electric light source and the light source holder
Implementation Method 2
One or more magnets in either or both of the electric light source and the charger may draw a charging pin from within the platform charger to a charging contact of the electric light source
Data Source
AI summary
Lighting systems may include a group charging station and a lighting device. The group charging stations may include a plurality of power devices operable to power the lighting device, the plurality of power devices including a first power device and a second power device, the first power device including a first plurality of electrical contacts, the second power device including a second plurality of electrical contacts, and a group charging platform operable to concurrently charge the plurality of power devices.