Rescue Hook Bumper With Integrated Helical Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rescue hoist hook assemblies are difficult to visually locate during nighttime or low-visibility operations, and existing solutions like chemical glow sticks or auxiliary lighting assemblies add bulk, weight, and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A bumper assembly with a helically recessed lighting element that is powered by a compact power source integrated within the top plate, providing minimal weight and volume increase, and controlled by a switch or sensor for activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If chemical glow sticks are used to light the hook assembly, then visibility is improved, but the hook assembly cannot be used for other purposes and lighting duration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lighting function with the hook assembly by integrating a power source and lighting element directly into the bumper structure. This merging allows the hook assembly to maintain its primary function while simultaneously providing illumination, eliminating the need to choose between visibility and usability.
2Illumination intensity
If an auxiliary lighting assembly is retrofitted to the bumper, then visibility is improved, but size, bulk, and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting elements and power source are nested within the existing bumper structure. The lighting element is positioned within a recess in the bumper, and the power source is integrated into the bumper's internal space. This nesting approach allows the lighting system to be housed within the existing volume of the hook assembly, minimizing additional weight and bulk.
3Illumination intensity
If an auxiliary lighting assembly is retrofitted to the bumper, then visibility is improved, but the assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lighting system with the bumper assembly, using the bumper's existing structure to house and support the lighting components. The control element is integrated into the bumper, and the lighting element is positioned within a recess in the bumper. This integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall assembly.
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
Enhances visibility of the hook assembly with integrated, lightweight, and protected lighting that maintains the assembly's robustness and simplicity, ensuring improved operational safety without additional bulk or weight.
Implementation Method 1
a first lighting element disposed on the bumper and configured to emit light in response to a current from a power source
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A hook assembly can include a bumper assembly (12) and a hook (14) attached to the bumper. The bumper assembly (12) includes a top plate (18), a bottom plate (20), and a bumper (16) extending between and connecting the top plate (18) and the bottom plate (20). A lighting element (22) can be disposed on the top plate (18), the bottom plate (20), and the bumper (16) to provide a visual indicator for the bumper assembly (12). The lighting element (22) can be an electroluminescent device, and can be disposed on an exterior surface of the bumper assembly or in a recess (36) extending into the bumper assembly. A power source (26) and other electrical components can be stored in a compartment in the top plate (18).