Programmable Light Source Flame Simulator to Eliminate Motor Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric fireplaces with rotary electric reflectors suffer from noise, high cost, and bulkiness due to synchronous or step motors, which affect user experience and ornamental aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A programmable lighting flame simulator with a light source, pattern screen, and projection screen, controlled by a programmable controller, eliminates the need for a driving motor, reducing noise and cost, and allows for a more compact design by eliminating the need for a rotary flame generator assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a rotary electric reflector with synchronous or step motor is used to create flame effect, then the flame generation function is achieved, but noise is generated and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the motor component entirely from the flame generator assembly. Instead of using a rotary electric reflector driven by a synchronous or step motor, the invention uses a fixed reflector with a programmable light source that simulates flame motion through controlled lighting sequences, eliminating the source of noise and mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotary reflector system with an optical-electronic system. A programmable light source (LEDs or other light-emitting components) controlled by a microcontroller creates the illusion of moving flames through programmed brightness and color changes, substituting mechanical motion with electronic control and optical effects
2Area of stationary object
If a rotary electric reflector assembly is used, then flame effect is generated, but the assembly is bulky and takes up large space in the fireplace housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the bulky rotary mechanism from the flame generator. By using a fixed reflector and programmable light source, the assembly size is dramatically reduced, allowing for a more compact fireplace design with improved visible depth and ornamental aesthetics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a three-dimensional mechanical rotating structure to a two-dimensional optical display system. The flame effect is achieved through programmed light intensity and color variations on a fixed plane, eliminating the need for deep mechanical structures and reducing the overall footprint of the flame generator assembly
3Reliability
If a rotary electric reflector is used, then flame generation is achieved, but the spindle can come off axis causing noise or failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vulnerable spindle and rotary bearing components entirely. By eliminating the rotating mechanism, the source of mechanical failure and associated noise is removed, significantly improving the reliability and longevity of the flame generator assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable light source system requires no moving parts or mechanical maintenance. The solid-state LED components and electronic control system are inherently reliable with no wear components, eliminating the need for spindle alignment, bearing replacement, or mechanical servicing that would be required for a rotary reflector system
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 quieter, cost-effective, and more compact electric fireplace with enhanced ornamental aesthetics by controlling light source brightness and color changes without a motor, allowing for a smaller cabinet size and improved user experience.
Implementation Method 1
the light source is a programmable light source
Implementation Method 2
the pattern screen is provided with a translucent image which is visible when the light source is working
Implementation Method 3
the programmable light source is arranged on a reflective surface or a reflective membrane to form a lighting member
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a lighting flame simulator with a programmable light source, an electrical fireplace and assembling method thereof. The lighting flame simulator comprises a light source, a pattern screen and a projection screen, wherein the light source is a programmable light source, the pattern screen is provided with a translucent image which is visible when the light source is working, the projection screen is provided with translucent and transparent areas or is a translucent screen.