Portable Lighting System with Flexible Ribs and Traveler Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable lighting systems for roadside construction sites are difficult to set up, take down, and move due to their weight and complexity, while also needing to be sturdy and weather-resistant, which complicates compliance with operational requirements for safety and visibility.
Innovation Solution
A portable lighting system with a base, a light source, a traveler mechanism, and flexible ribs that allow for easy assembly and disassembly using a rotating shaft mechanism, enabling single-handed expansion and attachment to vehicles or stands, and featuring a cover for enhanced visibility and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lighting system is made sturdy and weather-resistant to withstand various weather conditions and air turbulence, then reliability and durability are improved, but weight and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular components including a base, traveler, frame members, and light source that can be assembled and disassembled independently. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for durability while maintaining overall system portability and ease of deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing the structure to adapt to different deployment configurations. The traveler mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the frame members from a collapsed to an extended configuration, providing both durability when deployed and ease of transport when collapsed.
2Reliability
If the lighting system is made sturdy and weather-resistant to withstand various weather conditions and air turbulence, then reliability and durability are improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into modular components, each piece can be made lightweight while the assembled structure provides the necessary durability. The frame members, base, and traveler are designed as separate lightweight elements that gain structural integrity when combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members utilize flexible yet durable materials that provide weather resistance and structural integrity without adding excessive weight. The flexible ribs and frame members are designed to be both lightweight and resilient against environmental conditions.
3Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting equipment is used to meet operational requirements, then illumination and safety standards are met, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in setup, takedown, and movement
Solution Approach 1:
The traveler mechanism provides dynamic control over the frame members, allowing a single operator to easily extend and collapse the structure. The rotating shaft with slider mechanism enables smooth, controlled movement of the frame members without requiring multiple people or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-latching features through the key member and key opening interaction, which automatically secures the frame members in the extended position once deployed. This self-service mechanism reduces the operational complexity and makes the system easier to set up and take down.
4Illumination intensity
If traditional lighting equipment is used to meet operational requirements, then illumination and safety standards are met, but device complexity increases due to accompanying stands, cords, generators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single unified structure. The base, traveler, frame members, and light source are combined into one assembly that eliminates the need for separate stands, cords, and generators. The mounting bracket allows direct attachment to vehicles or stands, further reducing the number of required components.
Solution Approach 2:
The lighting system is designed with universal mounting capabilities through the bracket that can attach to various surfaces including vehicles and roadside stands. The traveler mechanism serves multiple functions by controlling both the extension and latching of the frame members, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable lighting system for single-handed operation includes abase for supporting the portable lighting system, a light source positioned on the base, a traveler having a key member attached to a rotating shaft mechanism extending from the traveler, and a frame connected to the base and the traveler and enclosing the light source. The frame includes a plurality of flexible ribs attached to the base at a first end and to the traveler at a second end, a latch plate having a key opening for engaging the key member and spaced a distance from the traveler, and at least one guide track connected between the traveler and the latch plate. The traveler is movable along the guide member from a starting position toward the latch plate causing the flexible ribs to bend outwardly and the key member is configured to enter the key opening and rotate via the rotating shaft mechanism to lock the traveler from returning to the starting position on the guide track. This configures the lighting system for use.