Rotating Reflector Flame Simulator for Realistic Flickering Effect
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies fail to create a realistic and visually appealing three-dimensional simulation of a flame that mimics the stochastic changes in real flames.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a light source, a rotating reflector with intermittent reflecting elements, and a semi-transparent image screen produces a realistic flickering flame effect by selectively reflecting light onto the screen, creating a three-dimensional simulation of a flame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a static light source and screen are used, then the device structure is simple, but the flame simulation realism is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by introducing a rotating reflector that continuously changes the reflection pattern of light onto the screen. The reflector rotates to create time-varying flame-like patterns, transforming a static optical system into a dynamic one that simulates the stochastic nature of real flames.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating reflector implements periodic action by continuously rotating to create repeating yet stochastic flame patterns. The periodic rotation of the reflector generates the flickering effect characteristic of real flames, with each rotation cycle producing variations in light intensity and pattern distribution.
2Reliability
If a rotating reflector with intermittent reflecting elements is used, then the flame flickering effect is realistic, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is segmented into multiple discrete reflecting elements arranged in specific patterns on the rotating surface. These segmented reflecting elements create distinct light reflection zones that, when rotated, generate the stochastic flickering patterns characteristic of real flames.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating reflector acts as an intermediary between the light source and the screen. It modulates the light from the source through its rotation and patterned reflecting elements, transforming uniform light into stochastic flame-like patterns before projecting them onto the screen.
3Reliability
If light is selectively reflected onto the screen, then the three-dimensional flame simulation is achieved, but the light distribution control becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves three-dimensional flame simulation by adding temporal dimension through rotation. The rotating reflector creates time-varying light patterns that simulate the third dimension of flame depth and movement, transforming a two-dimensional screen display into a perceived three-dimensional flame effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls light distribution by changing parameters of the rotating reflector, including rotation speed, reflecting element patterns, and their positions on the rotating surface. These parameter changes enable dynamic control of light intensity, distribution, and pattern characteristics to simulate different flame conditions.
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 effectively generates a realistic and visually appealing three-dimensional flame simulation that mimics the stochastic changes of real flames, enhancing the visual experience through selective light reflection and 3D projection.
Implementation Method 1
The light from the light source is reflected onto the image screen by the reflecting pieces as the rotating surface is rotated
Data Source
AI summary
A flame simulating device has a light source which is reflected by a rotating device which has mirrors which are spaced apart. The spaced apart mirrors rotate, and thus provide a selective reflection, at some points reflecting during time and at other points not reflecting during time. This produces a flickering effect. The flickering effect is shown through a cut out in the shape of the flame, to display a simulated flame devi effect. The display screen for the simulated effect can be a part mirror, and can display, for example, an artificial log mixed in with the flame effect.