Sliding Light Switch with Integrated LED Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighting systems lack flexibility and aesthetic appeal, as they are typically fixed and not optimized for both stationary and portable use, requiring extensive wiring and failing to match decor or provide adjustable illumination.
Innovation Solution
A light switch with an integrated sliding member that exposes LED lighting elements, allowing adjustable illumination levels and easy relocation, using a magnetic attachment system for secure mounting and dismounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed wired lighting systems are used, then illumination is provided from fixed locations, but flexibility and ease of relocation are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light source from the traditional fixed wiring system, allowing the lighting function to be separated from permanent electrical infrastructure. The switch housing contains an integrated power source and LED array, enabling illumination without requiring extensive wiring to new locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a light switch and a portable lighting system. The magnetic mounting system allows the same device to function as a wall-mounted switch or a portable flashlight, providing versatility across different usage scenarios without requiring separate systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If portable internally powered lighting systems are used, then flexibility and portability are improved, but aesthetic appeal and fixed location optimization are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aesthetic design of a traditional wall switch with the functionality of a portable flashlight. The housing mimics conventional switch plate designs, allowing it to blend into home decor when mounted on the wall, while retaining the portable lighting capability when detached via the magnetic mounting system.
3Ease of operation
If traditional light switches are used, then simple on/off control is provided, but adjustable illumination levels are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic lighting system where the LED array can be selectively activated in different segments. The switch contains multiple LEDs arranged in an array, and the control mechanism enables users to adjust illumination intensity by activating different portions of the LED array, transitioning from simple on/off to variable brightness control.
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
Provides flexible, aesthetically pleasing illumination with adjustable levels and easy portability, eliminating the need for extensive wiring and allowing multiple mounting configurations.
Implementation Method 1
the first mounting member is a ferromagnetic disk and the second mounting member is a magnet, wherein the magnetic attraction between the first mounting member and the second mounting member releasably secures the illuminating light switch to the support surface
Implementation Method 2
The sliding member is movable along the channel between a closed position, an intermediate position and an open position
Implementation Method 3
exposes LED lighting elements to provide adjustable levels of illumination
Data Source
AI summary
An illuminating light switch with an integrated sliding member that, when actuated by a user, exposes led lighting elements to illuminate the area where the light switch is affixed. The light switch includes a front member having a light aperture aligned with a light source, a rear member with a first mounting member affixed, a second mounting member adapted to be coupled to both a support surface and the first mounting member, and an internal switch to selectively supply current to the light source. In the closed position, the sliding member obscures the light source and no current is supplied to the light source. In the intermediate position, the sliding member partially exposes a first extent of the light source that provides illumination through the light aperture. In the open position, the sliding member exposes a second extent of the light source to provide a greater amount of illumination through the light aperture.