MCPCB Aircraft Lighting Assembly With Integrated Light Blocking Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern aircraft exterior lighting assemblies require complex structures that are challenging and costly to manufacture, necessitating a need for multifunctional lighting assemblies with simpler and more cost-effective designs.
Innovation Solution
A lighting device featuring a unitary body formed from a metal clad printed circuit board with integral support members and protruding members, each with functional surfaces for light reflection and/or blocking, accommodating multiple light sources for various functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multifunctional exterior lighting assemblies are used, then multiple lighting functions can be achieved, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple lighting functions (navigation lights, anti-collision lights, flood lights, wing lights) into a single integrated lighting assembly. The housing contains multiple light sources and optical components (lenses, reflectors, light blockers) that work together to provide different lighting functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate assemblies for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting assembly is designed as a universal multifunctional unit that can perform multiple lighting operations. The same housing and optical components serve different purposes through strategic placement of light sources and use of adjustable optical elements, allowing the assembly to adapt to various lighting requirements without needing multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional multifunctional exterior lighting assemblies are used, then multiple lighting functions can be achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple lighting functions into a single assembly, the patent reduces the total number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration lowers manufacturing costs through reduced part count, simplified supply chains, and fewer assembly operations, while still providing multiple lighting functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal design allows a single standardized housing and optical component set to serve multiple functions, reducing the need for specialized expensive components for each lighting function. The adjustable optical elements and strategic light source placement enable one universal assembly to replace multiple specialized assemblies, lowering overall manufacturing cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lighting assemblies with multiple separate components are used, then functional requirements can be met, but assembly and installation become challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple lighting functions and optical components into a single pre-assembled unit. This integration simplifies installation by reducing the number of separate components that need to be mounted and connected, making the assembly process faster and less complex while meeting all required functional specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal multifunctional assembly design provides a standardized interface and integrated structure that simplifies installation procedures. The single assembly unit can be installed as one component rather than multiple separate assemblies, reducing installation time and complexity while maintaining all required lighting functions.
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 provides a cost-effective and easier-to-manufacture lighting assembly with reduced parts, facilitating assembly and installation, while maintaining functionality for multiple lighting functions.
Implementation Method 1
The first functional surface and the second functional surface are each disposed within paths of light emitted from the first light source and configured to reflect and/or block the light emitted by the first light source
Implementation Method 2
The first functional surface and the second functional surface are each disposed within paths of light emitted from the first light source and configured to reflect and/or block the light emitted by the first light source
Data Source
AI summary
Lighting devices, methods, and vehicles are provided. The devices include a unitary body formed of a metal clad printed circuit board (MCPCD). The body includes first, second, and third support members having first, second, and third support surfaces. The first and second support members are integral with each other with a bend at a boundary therebetween. First and second protruding members having first and second functional surfaces extend from the first support member, and third and fourth protruding members having third and fourth functional surfaces extend from the second support member. First and second light sources are fixed to the first and second support surfaces, respectively. The first and second light sources are operable via a circuit layer of the MCPCD. The first, second, third, and fourth functional surfaces are configured to reflect and/or block the light emitted by the first or second light source.