Portable LED Light with Orthogonal Emission Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable light devices with loops and clips often have light sources oriented vertically downward when suspended, limiting visibility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A portable light with a karabiner-like loop and spring-loaded clip, where the light emitting diodes emit light substantially parallel to the loop axis, allowing for attachment and emission at right angles to the mounting object, enhancing visibility and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the light source is oriented vertically downward when suspended by the clip, then the device structure is simple, but the visibility and functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the light emission orientation from vertical (downward) to horizontal (parallel to loop axis), adding a dimensional aspect to the light direction. This allows the light to illuminate objects at right angles to the mounting surface, providing improved visibility and functionality while maintaining a relatively simple clip structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric orientation of the light source relative to the clip structure. Instead of the light emitting vertically downward from a symmetric suspension point, the light source is positioned and oriented asymmetrically to emit light parallel to the loop axis, creating directional illumination that enhances visibility in specific directions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the light source is positioned to emit light parallel to the loop axis, then the visibility is improved, but the attachment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source positioning function with the existing clip and loop structure. The light source is integrated into the body that forms the loop, so that the orientation of the light source is naturally aligned with the loop axis. This combining of functions allows improved visibility without requiring a separate complex attachment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip and loop structure serves multiple functions: it provides the attachment mechanism for mounting the light to objects, and simultaneously defines the orientation axis for the light source. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate orientation mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while achieving improved visibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the light emits at right angles to the mounting object, then the functionality is enhanced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by orienting the light source in a specific direction (parallel to the loop axis) rather than requiring precise angular control in all directions. The light emission is optimized for a particular functional requirement (illumination at right angles to the mounting object), allowing manufacturing tolerance in other directions while maintaining the essential functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the critical parameter from precise angular control to directional alignment with the loop axis. Instead of requiring the light to emit at a specific angle relative to the mounting object, the design uses the loop axis as a reference, and the light is oriented parallel to this axis. This parameter change reduces manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining the desired functionality.
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
Enables improved visibility and versatility by directing light emitted at right angles from the mounting object, addressing the limitations of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a portable light comprising at least one light emitting diode, a power source, a switch operable for closing an electronic circuit between the power source and the light emitting diode, wherein when the electronic circuit is closed the at least one diode emits light generally about a first axis
Data Source
AI summary
A portable light is disclosed comprising at least one light emitting diode, a power source, a switch operable for closing an electronic circuit between the power source and the light emitting diode, wherein when the electronic circuit is closed the at least one diode emits light generally about a first axis, and a body adapted to receive the light emitting diode, the battery and the switch, the body comprising a loop portion towards one end thereof defining a loop aperture having an axis which is substantially parallel to the first axis.