Solar Lantern Self-Erecting Coil Structure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lighting devices, such as lanterns, lack a convenient and stable mechanism for transitioning between expanded operational and collapsed storage positions, which can lead to instability and difficulty in storage and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A self-deploying solar-powered lantern with a self-erecting coil structure and a compliant shade member that allows for easy manipulation between collapsed and expanded positions, utilizing a combination of inner and outer helical coil springs for stability and a connection assembly for secure deployment, along with a rechargeable battery and solar panel system for power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional lantern structure is used, then the lantern can provide lighting function, but the lantern lacks stable mechanism for transitioning between expanded and collapsed positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested coil springs where an inner coil spring is positioned within an outer coil spring. This nested configuration allows the lantern to collapse into a compact form while maintaining structural integrity during transition. The springs work together in a nested arrangement to enable smooth expansion and collapse without compromising stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic transition mechanism using coil springs that allow the lantern to smoothly transform between expanded and collapsed states. The spring-based system provides controlled movement during transition, enabling the lantern to adapt its shape while maintaining stability throughout the transformation process.
2Volume of moving object
If the lantern is designed to be collapsible for storage, then the storage convenience is improved, but the stability in expanded position may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The nested coil spring configuration enables the lantern to collapse into a compact storage form while maintaining structural integrity. The inner spring nested within the outer spring allows for reduced volume during storage without compromising the stability when expanded, as both springs work together to provide structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functional elements including coil springs, a connection assembly with latch member, and a compliant shade into an integrated system. This merging of components allows the lantern to achieve both compact storage capability and stable expanded position through the coordinated action of these combined elements.
3Ease of operation
If a self-deploying mechanism is implemented, then the ease of deployment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-deploying mechanism where the lantern automatically transitions from collapsed to expanded position using spring force and a latch-based connection assembly. The system serves itself by utilizing stored elastic energy in the coils and a simple latch mechanism that automatically engages during deployment, eliminating the need for complex external actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the deployment function into a separate, simple mechanism consisting of coil springs and a latch member, rather than integrating complexity into the overall structure. This extraction allows the self-deploying feature to be achieved through a dedicated, straightforward mechanism that doesn't significantly increase overall device complexity.
4Reliability
If a connection assembly with latch member is used, then the deployment stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection assembly with latch member operates as a self-actuating system that automatically engages and disengages during deployment and collapse. The latch member works in conjunction with the coil springs to provide stable connection without requiring external control mechanisms, achieving reliable deployment stability through self-service operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch member acts as an intermediary element between the coil springs and the lantern structure, providing a simple yet effective connection mechanism. This intermediary component enables stable deployment by mediating the force transmission from the springs to the lantern body without requiring complex direct coupling.
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 a stable and efficient lighting solution that can be easily deployed and stored, with enhanced stability and versatility in placement, utilizing solar energy and automatic lighting control based on ambient conditions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one solar panel arranged at the housing; at least one light source in electrical communication with the at least one solar panel
Implementation Method 2
self-deploying coil structure extending between and connected to the housing and the support base
Data Source
AI summary
A portable and expandable solar-powered lantern that includes a light source, at least one solar panel in electrical communication with a battery to power the light source, and a self-erecting coil structure defining a frame covered by a compliant shade member. The frame includes an inner coil member coiled in a first direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the frame, and an outer coil member coiled in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The coil structure is moveable between a collapsed storage position and an expanded position, the compliant shade member limiting the length of the frame when the coil structure is in the expanded position.