Searchlight Diffuser for Uniform Beam Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Searchlights exhibit spatial non-uniformities in their output beam, resulting in shadows and 'donut holes' that are undesirable in projection applications, and existing reimaging systems to address this issue lead to a significant loss in output illumination.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a diffuser, such as a holographic, fly's eye, or Fresnel lens diffuser, into the searchlight system to diffuse the illuminated beam, thereby filling in shadows and increasing the divergence angle of the beam without substantial loss of illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a reimaging system is used to reduce shadows in the beam, then the spatial uniformity of the beam is improved, but the output illumination is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A diffuser is introduced as an intermediary element between the searchlight and the target area. The diffuser scatters the light rays to fill in shadow regions while preserving the overall beam intensity, thus improving spatial uniformity without the significant illumination loss associated with reimaging systems
2Illumination intensity
If the searchlight operates at high intensity to maintain illumination levels, then the output illumination is improved, but the spatial non-uniformities and shadows become more pronounced
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser applies local modifications to the light distribution by scattering light specifically in shadow regions while leaving other areas relatively unaffected. This creates a more uniform local quality across the beam without requiring a reduction in overall intensity
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 diffuser effectively fills in dark spots within the beam, eliminating 'donut holes' and maintaining a high level of illumination, while minimizing the loss in output light intensity.
Implementation Method 1
passing, through at least one diffuser, the light, thereby diffusing the illuminated beam
Implementation Method 2
at least one diffuser is a symmetric diffuser... at least one diffuser is an asymmetric diffuser... at least one diffuser a holographic diffuser, a fly's eye diffuser, and/or a Fresnel lens
Data Source
AI summary
A searchlight including at least one diffuser for eliminating spatial non-uniformities in the illuminated beam. The searchlight may further include a reflector, with the diffuser(s) positioned in front of the reflector.