Polygonal Bearing Element Dampens Lamp Stem Impact Forces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing discharge lamps are susceptible to mechanical stress and breakage due to vibrations and impacts during production, transport, and use, particularly at the bearing section of the lamp stem where the electrode rod is supported, leading to potential failure of the lamp body.
Innovation Solution
A bearing element with a polygonally shaped cross section envelope is used to surround the electrode rod, providing resilient support by absorbing impact energy through elastic deformation, thereby reducing stress peaks on the lamp stem and preventing breakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional bearing section is provided in the lamp stem to support the electrode rod, then the electrode rod is supported during production and use, but the bearing section becomes a weak point susceptible to breakage under mechanical stress and impacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible bearing element in the form of a wire coil or spiral that can elastically deform under impact loads. This flexible structure absorbs mechanical stress through controlled deformation rather than rigid resistance, preventing stress concentration that would lead to breakage of the lamp stem or electrode rod.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing element's physical parameters (coil diameter, wire thickness, spacing) are optimized to provide appropriate flexibility and damping characteristics. By adjusting these parameters, the bearing section can accommodate varying impact forces while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the lamp stem is designed with a bearing section for supporting the electrode rod, then the electrode rod is held in position, but the bearing section is vulnerable to damage from vibrations and impacts during production, transport, and use
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing element acts as an intermediary component between the rigid lamp stem and electrode rod assembly. It provides a compliant interface that mediates the transmission of mechanical stresses, vibrations, and impacts, protecting both the lamp stem and electrode rod from damage while maintaining proper positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible bearing element is pre-installed in the lamp stem to provide cushioning protection before any impacts or vibrations occur during production, transport, or use. This preventive measure absorbs and dissipates mechanical energy before it can reach critical components.
3Strength
If a rigid bearing structure is used to firmly support the electrode rod, then the electrode rod is securely held, but the structure cannot absorb impact energy and is prone to breakage under mechanical stress
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing element transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible system that can adapt its stiffness characteristics. Under normal operating conditions, it provides sufficient holding force, but under impact loads, it deforms to absorb energy, thereby maintaining reliability across different loading scenarios.
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 bearing element effectively dampens impact forces, reducing the likelihood of lamp stem failure and enhancing the lamp's durability and resistance to mechanical stress, while also simplifying production and reducing packaging and transport costs.
Implementation Method 1
providing resilient support by absorbing impact energy through elastic deformation
Implementation Method 2
The bearing element effectively dampens impact forces
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide a bearing element for an electrode rod in a lamp stem. The bearing element includes an envelope configured in order to extend along a longitudinal axis of the electrode rod. The envelope has a polygonally shaped cross section at least in sections.