Searchlight Automatic Return Mechanism Using MCU and Switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional searchlights cannot automatically return to their starting positions when the power supply is switched off, lacking the functionality to reset their lighting angles vertically and horizontally.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a microcontroller unit (MCU) with snap-action and photo-electric switches, along with positioning levers, to control the vertical and horizontal driving devices, ensuring the searchlight returns to its initial positions by completing specific operational procedures before power shutdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional searchlight structure is used, then the device is simple in structure, but the searchlight cannot automatically return to starting position when power is switched off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using a microcontroller unit to store the starting position coordinates before power shutdown occurs. The system proactively records the initial positioning data (horizontal angle θ1 and vertical angle θ2) in the MCU's memory during normal operation, so that when power is switched off, the stored coordinates can be immediately retrieved and used to guide the searchlight back to its starting position, eliminating the need for manual repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through a closed-loop control system where encoders continuously monitor the actual horizontal and vertical angles of the searchlight. The microcontroller compares the real-time encoder readings with the stored starting position coordinates, and automatically adjusts the driving devices to minimize the angular deviation. This feedback mechanism ensures the searchlight returns precisely to its starting position after power interruption.
2Productivity
If automatic return function is added, then the operational efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the microcontroller unit to perform multiple functions: it controls the horizontal and vertical driving devices, reads encoder feedback signals, stores starting position coordinates, and executes the automatic return algorithm. The same MCU and encoder system are used for both normal position control and automatic return operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components and reducing overall system complexity despite adding the automatic return capability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If no position memory function is provided, then the device is simple, but the lighting direction cannot be maintained after power interruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical position memory mechanisms (such as mechanical stops or physical alignment features) with an electronic memory system based on the microcontroller unit. The MCU stores the starting position coordinates in its digital memory, and uses electronic control signals to guide the searchlight back to the correct position. This substitution of mechanical systems with electronic control achieves more precise and reliable position memory while reducing mechanical wear and improving stability.
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
Enables the searchlight to automatically return to its starting positions, maintaining consistent functionality and operational efficiency even after power interruption.
Implementation Method 1
the support has a top provided with a positioning lever for use in interrupting the light path of the photoelectric switch of the lamp housing
Implementation Method 2
the lamp assembly has a back provided with a positioning lever for use in touch with the snap-action switch of the lamp housing
Data Source
AI summary
A searchlight includes a lamp housing provided with a snap-action switch and/or a photo-electric switch, a support pivotally supporting the lamp housing from below and a lamp assembly pivotally installed inside the lamp housing; the lamp assembly has a back provided with a positioning lever for use in touch with the snap-action switch of the lamp housing; and the support has a top provided with a positioning lever for use in interrupting the light path of the photoelectric switch of the lamp housing; due to possessing aforesaid structure the searchlight therefore has a function of automatically returning to starting position when power supply is switched off.