Rotating Crystal Spectral Display for Dynamic Rainbow Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional display devices lack excitement and unpredictability, as they become static and repetitive quickly, and existing novelty items pose safety concerns or fail to effectively integrate with external light and natural elements.

Innovation Solution

A solar-powered rotating display device featuring a motor-driven, multifaceted crystal refractive element that rotates on a horizontal axis, using photovoltaic cells to harness external light for power and generate constantly changing rainbow-like patterns through light dispersion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If conventional display devices are used, then they are simple to manufacture and operate, but they become static and repetitive quickly, losing entertainment value

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveentertainment value durationVSAvoiddisplay mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by implementing a rotating crystal element that continuously changes its orientation and light refraction patterns. The crystal rotates on a horizontal axis, creating dynamically changing visual displays rather than static patterns, thereby extending entertainment value duration while maintaining manageable device complexity through a single rotational degree of freedom.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements Periodic action through the rotational motion of the crystal element. The crystal rotates periodically, creating repeating yet ever-changing visual patterns as light refracts through different crystal facets at different rotation angles. This periodic rotation ensures continuous visual interest without requiring complex programming or multiple static elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Use of energy by moving object

If solar power is used to power the display device, then energy efficiency and environmental integration are improved, but the device requires external light which limits operational conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidoperational condition flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Universality principle by designing the display device to serve multiple functions: the external light source simultaneously powers the photovoltaic cells for rotational operation and provides the light necessary for the crystal to create visual displays. This dual functionality allows the device to operate efficiently under natural lighting conditions while maintaining adaptability through the inherent availability of ambient light in most display environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a rotating crystal element is used to create dynamic displays, then visual interest and unpredictability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual display varietyVSAvoidcrystal mounting complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Segmentation principle by dividing the display device into distinct functional modules: a base structure, a mounting mechanism for the crystal, and the crystal element itself. The crystal is mounted on a horizontal axis that allows independent rotation, separating the rotational drive mechanism from the visual display element. This modular segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each component to be produced and tested separately before assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 device creates a dynamic, visually engaging multicolor display that moves circularly, providing long-term entertainment value while being environmentally integrated and safe, utilizing solar energy for operation.

Implementation Method 1

The rotating display device uses external light as a power source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

uses external light as a power source and as an integral component in generating a visual, rainbow-like display

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight dispersion: Dispersion (of waves)

Implementation Method 3

a light refractive element that forms constantly changing patterns from a rotating crystal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRefraction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS9013775B2Rotating spectral display device
Publication Date: 2015.04.21 DEAR DAVID
  • US9013775B2 patent drawing
  • US9013775B2 patent drawing
  • US9013775B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A solar powered rainbow-making device produces a visual display that is created by the interplay of light and a light refractive element that form constantly changing patterns from a rotating crystal. The rotating display device includes a circular-shaped refractive element that is mounted on a base and is turned by a motor driven transmission gear train. The crystal rotates about a horizontal axis as sunlight is transformed into a color spectrum that moves in a circular fashion. The color images can include a plurality of distinct rainbow images that are projected onto the walls and other structures in the immediate environment.