Segmented Theatrical Reflector With Movable Heat Exchanger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current theatrical lighting fixtures lack the ability to dynamically change light patterns and beam angles without mechanical adjustments, limiting their versatility and creative potential in producing complex effects.
Innovation Solution
A theatrical lighting fixture with a main reflector divided into multiple segments, each paired with an independently controllable light source, where the heat exchanger is centrally located and can be moved relative to the reflector segments using an actuator, allowing for adjustable light output and beam control through a positioning system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single physically integrated reflector is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the light pattern cannot be dynamically changed without physical mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is divided into multiple independently controllable segments (first reflector segment, second reflector segment, etc.), each paired with its own light source. This segmentation allows individual segments to be controlled separately to create different light patterns and beam angles, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and light pattern adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a positioning system with actuators that can physically move the reflector segments relative to each other and the light sources. This dynamic capability enables real-time adjustment of light patterns and beam angles without requiring a completely different physical mechanism, bridging the gap between static manufacturing simplicity and dynamic light control versatility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If light sources are fixed relative to the reflector, then the structure is stable and simple, but the beam angle and light output cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system enables the reflector segments and light sources to move relative to each other while maintaining structural stability during operation. The actuators provide controlled movement for beam angle adjustment, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and beam angle adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters such as the position of reflector segments and light sources relative to each other to achieve different beam angles and light outputs. This parameter adjustment capability allows the same stable structure to produce variable light patterns, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and beam angle control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independently controllable light sources are used, then the light output and color variety are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the lighting function into multiple independent segments, each with its own light source and reflector segment. This segmentation allows independent control of color and intensity for each segment, enabling complex color combinations while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each light source and reflector segment pair serves multiple functions: producing different colors, adjusting beam angles, and creating various light patterns. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby managing device complexity while enhancing color combination capability.
4Measurement precision
If the heat exchanger is centrally located and movable, then the light output control is precise, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centrally located, movable heat exchanger serves multiple functions: managing thermal load from multiple light sources, positioning precisely to control light output, and integrating with the positioning system. This multi-functionality justifies the added mechanism complexity by providing precise light output control across multiple parameters.
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 continuous variation of light output from a dim glow to full power, precise control over beam angles, and the creation of complex color combinations and animated effects, enhancing the fixture's versatility and creative possibilities.
Implementation Method 1
a main reflector divided into multiple segments, each paired with an independently controllable light source
Implementation Method 2
the heat exchanger is centrally located and can be moved relative to the reflector segments using an actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A theatrical lighting apparatus including a plurality of light sources including a first light source and a second light source; and a plurality of reflector segments including first and second reflector segments; wherein the plurality of light sources are centrally located between the plurality of reflector segments; wherein each of the plurality of reflector segments has a focal point; wherein the first light source is located approximately the focal point of the first reflector segment; and wherein the second light source is located approximately the focal point of the second reflector segment. The plurality of light sources may include at least one white light emitting diode light source. The plurality of light sources may be fixed to a single heat exchanger centrally located between the plurality of reflector segments. The heat exchanger may be configured to be moved relative to the plurality of reflector segments by an actuator.