Rotating Light Beam Illumination for Surface Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current illumination systems for finding objects on a surface are inefficient, often requiring awkward movements, creating glare, having limited detection capability, and being unable to detect objects on submerged surfaces, making it difficult to locate and remove hazardous items like broken glass from pool bottoms.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a plurality of light beams emitted from a body with a rotation mechanism, forming a contiguous illumination zone that can be positioned to maximize object detection, including the use of circular and non-circular beams, and potentially being coupled with a dustpan or wearable for enhanced usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional illumination systems are used, then objects can be illuminated, but the user must move around and contort into awkward positions to see reflected light
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the user to move around to see reflected light, the patent inverts the approach by projecting light beams along the surface and having the user view objects from a fixed position. The illumination is delivered where the object is, not where the user needs to be to see it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical system that projects light beams along the surface between the light source and the object. This intermediary mechanism transfers the illumination function, allowing the user to remain in a comfortable viewing position while objects are illuminated by the projected beams.
2Illumination intensity
If conventional illumination systems are used, then objects can be illuminated, but glare is created on the surface making visual detection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by directing light beams specifically along the surface path where objects are located, rather than illuminating the entire surface uniformly. This localized illumination approach illuminates objects of interest while minimizing glare on surrounding areas that would interfere with detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses asymmetric beam projection angles relative to the surface, directing beams at specific angles that illuminate objects without creating symmetric glare patterns that would obscure detection. The asymmetric geometry of beam placement optimizes illumination while avoiding reflective interference.
3Area of stationary object
If weak or unconcentrated illumination is used, then coverage area is increased, but detection capability beyond certain distances is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the illumination function into multiple discrete light beams rather than using a single diffuse light source. Each beam maintains concentrated intensity over distance, and collectively they cover a broad area. This segmentation allows both long-distance detection capability and wide coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional point-source illumination to a distributed linear array of light beams projected along the surface. This dimensional change from point to line geometry enables simultaneous achievement of wide coverage area and sustained beam intensity over distance.
4Measurement precision
If focused illumination is used, then detection precision is improved, but span of detection coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple focused light beams into a coordinated array that collectively provides both precision and broad coverage. Each individual beam maintains focused intensity for precise detection, while the combined array of beams spans a wide area, achieving both goals simultaneously through integration.
5Adaptability or versatility
If conventional illumination systems are used, then objects on accessible surfaces can be detected, but objects on submerged surfaces cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal illumination system that functions on both accessible and submerged surfaces. By projecting light beams along the surface regardless of accessibility, the system can illuminate objects on pool bottoms or other submerged surfaces where conventional systems fail, achieving multi-environment versatility.
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 system effectively illuminates objects on surfaces, ensuring confident detection and removal of objects, including those on submerged surfaces, by creating a broad and focused illumination zone, reducing the time and effort required to find objects and improving the reliability of locating all present objects.
Implementation Method 1
one or more light sources configured to generate a plurality of light beams, the light sources disposed within the body and emitting the plurality of light beams through the openings
Implementation Method 2
a rotation mechanism configured to rotate the plurality of light beams about an axis of the body; wherein rotation of the plurality of light beams forms a contiguous effective illumination zone about a circumference of the body
Data Source
AI summary
A system for illuminating an object comprises a plurality of light beams; an emission region from which the plurality of light beams is emitted; and an illumination zone defined by placement of the light beams and being projected in a manner to maximize illumination of the object. A method for illuminating an object using a system comprising one or more light sources comprises generating a plurality of light beams; placing the light beams to define an illumination zone; and positioning the system such that the object falls within the illumination zone. A system for illuminating an object comprises a body having one or more openings in an outer surface; one or more light sources configured to generate a plurality of light beams; and a rotation mechanism configured to rotate the plurality of light beams to form a contiguous effective illumination zone configured to illuminate an object disposed anywhere therein.