Smart Glass Lamp Lens for Dynamic Light Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting apparatus lack the ability to dynamically control light output patterns and areas of illumination, limiting flexibility and efficiency in lighting applications.
Innovation Solution
Integration of smart glass technology, which can be electrically controlled to alter transparency and reflectivity, allowing for adjustable light paths and patterns through the use of controllers and various smart glass materials like liquid crystals, electrochromic devices, and suspended particle devices, within lighting apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lighting apparatus are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ability to dynamically control light output patterns and areas of illumination is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing smart glass materials that can dynamically alter their optical properties (transparency, reflectivity) in response to electrical signals. This allows the lighting apparatus to change light output patterns and illumination areas without mechanical moving parts, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electrically controlled smart glass materials. Instead of using movable mirrors, lenses, or shutters to control light patterns, the invention uses electro-optic materials that change their optical characteristics when voltage is applied, thereby eliminating complex mechanical systems while achieving dynamic control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If smart glass technology is integrated, then dynamic control over light output is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing smart glass components that perform multiple functions simultaneously. The same smart glass material serves as both the optical element and the control mechanism, eliminating the need for separate mechanical adjustment devices. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the advanced materials used.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses smart glass as an intermediary between the electrical control system and the light output. The smart glass material acts as a mediator that translates electrical signals into optical changes, simplifying the control architecture by providing a direct electro-optic interface without requiring complex mechanical transmission mechanisms.
3Loss of energy
If smart glass materials are used to block or transmit light, then energy management efficiency is enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the lighting apparatus into distinct functional zones using multiple smart glass sections. Each section can be independently controlled to block or transmit light, allowing precise energy management for different areas. This modular segmentation also simplifies manufacturing by enabling standardized production of individual smart glass segments that can be assembled into complete lighting fixtures.
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 dynamic control over light output, allowing for seamless transitions between different illumination patterns, such as flood and spot lighting, and efficient use of light sources by blocking or transmitting light as needed, enhancing user control and energy management.
Implementation Method 1
smart glass materials like liquid crystals
Implementation Method 2
electrochromic devices
Implementation Method 3
suspended particle devices
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for generating light may be comprised of a light source with a lens interposed in a light path from the light source. The lens may be comprised of two or more sections wherein at least one section may be comprised of smart glass. Electrical circuitry may be configured to control a transparency state of the smart glass lens sections. Another embodiment may have two reflectors wherein one of the reflectors may be interposed between the light source and the other reflector and may be comprised of smart glass with a transparent state and a reflective state so that two different reflection patterns may be created. A method for illumination wherein at least one area's illumination is controlled by a section of smart glass is also disclosed.