Radial LED Lighting for Vehicle Wash Support Members

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Solution Overview

Problem

Vehicle wash systems lack effective lighting solutions that provide aesthetically pleasing and energy-efficient illumination for components such as support members, which are often exposed to harsh conditions and require protection from corrosion.

Innovation Solution

A lighting device featuring a mounting plate with a light emitting diode (LED) assembly, configured to form at least two columns of LEDs that project light radially, is attached to support members in a vehicle wash system, providing enhanced visibility and aesthetics while being protected by a removable cover member and panel to prevent corrosion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If traditional lighting solutions are used in vehicle wash systems, then illumination is provided, but energy efficiency is poor and aesthetic appeal is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidillumination quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional lighting sources to LED technology, changing the fundamental parameter of light generation. LEDs consume significantly less energy while providing superior illumination quality, directly resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and illumination intensity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting device incorporates multi-directional light projection with at least two columns of LEDs projecting light in different radial directions. This dimensional approach to light distribution enhances overall illumination quality and aesthetic appeal while maintaining LED energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If support members are exposed to harsh wash conditions, then structural function is maintained, but corrosion resistance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidcorrosion resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The support members are constructed from corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, which combine structural strength with resistance to harsh wash environment factors including water, chemicals, and moisture. This composite material approach maintains both structural integrity and corrosion resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting device and support members are designed to create a protected environment that resists corrosive elements. The mounting structure and cover members shield internal components from direct exposure to harsh wash conditions, effectively creating a protective barrier against corrosion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

3Ease of repair

If lighting components are made removable for easy replacement, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replaceabilityVSAvoidmounting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting device is divided into distinct modular segments including the mounting plate, LED assembly, and cover member. Each component can be independently removed and replaced, significantly improving ease of repair while the standardized segmentation actually reduces overall complexity through modularity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting structure incorporates removable and reconfigurable connections that allow dynamic adjustment and replacement of lighting components. This dynamic design enables easy maintenance while the simplicity of the removable connection mechanism keeps the overall device complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 offers energy-efficient, long-lasting illumination that enhances the visual appeal of vehicle wash systems, protects support members from corrosion, and allows for easy replacement of lighting components, improving both functionality and aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

The lighting device includes a mounting plate and a light emitting diode (LED) assembly. The LEDs are operatively attached to the first mounting surface of the mounting plate, such that the plurality of LEDS form at least two columns. Each LED is configured to emit a respective field of light in response to being energized.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emitting diode (LED): Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS10458607B2Lighting device for a component of a vehicle wash system
Publication Date: 2019.10.29 MOTOR CITY WASH WORKS INC
  • US10458607B2 patent drawing
  • US10458607B2 patent drawing
  • US10458607B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lighting device is provided for attachment to a component that defines an open area. The lighting device includes a mounting plate and a light emitting diode (LED) assembly. The mounting plate extends longitudinally, and is disposable within the open area. The mounting plate presents a first mounting surface and a second mounting surface. The LED assembly is operatively attached to the first mounting surface, with the LEDs being operatively attached to the first mounting surface, such that the LEDS form at least two columns. Each LED is configured to emit a respective field of light in response to being energized. The LED assembly is configured such that a field of light projected from the LEDs for one of the at least two columns is projected radially away from the field of light projected from the LEDs for the other of the at least two columns.