Multimode Flashlight Output Control for Consistent Runtime
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Solution Overview
Problem
The ANSI-PLATO FL-1 standard for flashlights does not accurately convey light output performance to consumers due to incentivized gaming of high lumen values and inconsistent mode labels, leading to consumer confusion and difficulty in comparing products.
Innovation Solution
A multimode portable lighting device with adjustable light output modes based on external data and internal conditions, including constant, boost, and automatic modes, to optimize light output and runtime, and a user interface for customizable settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the FL-1 standard uses high lumen values for marketing, then light output performance appears improved, but consumer understanding and accurate comparison deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the lighting system into multiple distinct modes (turbo, high, medium, low, ultra-low) with standardized icons and labels. Each mode represents a specific performance level, allowing consumers to understand and compare different operating states rather than being presented with a single misleading lumen value. This segmentation makes the performance characteristics transparent and comparable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs color-coded icons and visual indicators to represent different lighting modes and performance levels. This visual encoding system helps consumers quickly distinguish between modes and understand performance characteristics without needing to interpret numerical lumen values, thereby reducing information loss and improving consumer comprehension.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers use inconsistent mode labels, then product versatility is improved, but consumer confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a universal labeling system with standardized icons and consistent mode names (turbo, high, medium, low, ultra-low) that can be applied across different lighting products. This universal system maintains product versatility while eliminating consumer confusion caused by inconsistent labeling, allowing consumers to understand product capabilities across different brands and models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent standardizes the parameters used to define and label different modes, creating consistent performance thresholds and characteristics for each mode name. This standardization allows manufacturers to offer diverse product configurations while consumers can reliably understand what each mode represents, reducing confusion without limiting versatility.
3Illumination intensity
If the FL-1 standard focuses on peak lumen values, then light output measurement is simplified, but runtime and consistent performance information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the performance information into multiple standardized modes that represent different operating points, including sustained performance levels. This segmentation allows the system to convey both peak output capabilities and sustained runtime characteristics, as each mode represents a specific balance between power consumption and light output that can be maintained for extended periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic mode selection system that allows the lighting device to operate in different standardized modes based on user needs and battery status. This dynamic approach enables the system to maintain consistent performance at various power levels, providing consumers with information about both peak capabilities and sustained runtime performance across different operating conditions.
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 device provides consistent light output and extended runtime, enabling users to select appropriate modes for their needs, enhancing user satisfaction and clarity in product comparison.
Implementation Method 1
with the growth of light emitting diode (LED) technology came a marketplace flooded inferior LED flashlights
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode lighting system is disclosed. Due to industry standards, manufacturers of lighting devices are incentivized to create high initial light outputs that drop off quickly. Portable lighting devices with multiple modes of operation that can maximize light output and runtime according to industry standards (e.g., FL-1) as well as other lighting modes with more consistent light output over the device runtime. Lighting modes may be adjusted automatically based on sensor input. In an extreme mode, light output may be adjusted based on the temperature of the lights. Automatic modes may be adjusted based on ambient lighting or distance to a target. Lifecycle adjustments may be made to output current levels to obtain consistent light output throughout the lifecycle of lights by adjusting lighting based on accumulated usage.