Solar Mailbox Post Lighting With Self-Powered Address Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional illuminated mailbox posts are complex to assemble, require frequent maintenance, and are prone to malfunction in adverse weather conditions, lacking aesthetic appeal and efficient illumination.
Innovation Solution
A modular, solar rechargeable LED light unit is integrated into the mailbox post, eliminating the need for AC power and providing long-lasting, cost-efficient illumination with a modular design that is easy to install and maintain, featuring a reflector for effective address panel illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional fluorescent bulbs with AC power wiring are used, then illumination can be achieved, but the device becomes complex to assemble and install, requiring electricians and extensive wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the AC power wiring requirement from the mailbox post system by implementing a self-contained solar power unit. The solar panel, rechargeable battery, and LED light are integrated into a single modular unit that operates independently of external electrical infrastructure, eliminating the need for complex wiring and electrician installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar-powered mailbox post generates its own power through integrated solar panels that recharge an internal battery during the day, which then powers the LED illumination at night. This self-sufficient system eliminates dependency on external AC power sources and complex electrical connections.
2Illumination intensity
If fluorescent bulbs are used in conventional mailbox posts, then illumination is provided, but the bulbs fail periodically and require frequent replacement and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, short-lived fluorescent bulbs with durable, long-lasting LED light sources that have significantly extended service lives. The LEDs are integrated into a sealed modular unit with solar power, eliminating the need for periodic bulb replacement and reducing maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar-powered LED system provides more than sufficient illumination for the application while consuming minimal energy. The excessive durability and energy efficiency of LEDs compared to fluorescent bulbs result in dramatically reduced maintenance needs and longer service intervals.
3Extent of automation
If photo switches are mounted prominently on the outside of mailbox posts, then automatic lighting control is achieved, but the switches become exposed to damage and look unattractive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vulnerable external photo switch from the mailbox post structure by integrating the light-sensing function directly into the solar-powered LED module. The automatic on/off control is embedded within the sealed unit, protecting the sensing mechanism from weather and physical damage while maintaining aesthetic appearance.
4Use of energy by moving object
If conventional electrical wiring is used in mailbox posts, then power can be delivered to light bulbs, but the wiring and connections are susceptible to damage from wet and inclement weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The solar-powered LED unit generates and stores its own power internally using integrated solar panels and a rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for external electrical wiring and connections. This self-contained design protects all electrical components from weather exposure and significantly improves reliability in wet and inclement conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical wiring system with a solar-electrical system. Solar panels convert light energy to electrical energy, which charges a battery that powers the LED, eliminating exposed wiring and connections that are vulnerable to weather damage.
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
The solution provides reliable, long-lasting, and cost-effective illumination of address indicia, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing visibility at night, while being durable and resistant to damage, with no requirement for AC power or complex installation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one solar collector operably connected to the rechargeable power supply for collecting solar energy and converting such energy to electric power that is directed to the power supply for recharging
Implementation Method 2
a light unit disposed in the chamber and including a light source... causing the light source to illuminate
Implementation Method 3
energizing the light source and causing the light source to illuminate
Implementation Method 4
By using a solar rechargeable battery to power a long lasting LED light source... By further utilizing a unique angled reflector adjacent to the lighting unit, the LED light source, the lighting unit effectively and prominently illuminates address panels
Data Source
AI summary
A solar powered, illuminated mailbox post assembly includes a support post structure for supporting a mailbox operatively thereon. The support post structure includes a vertical post section for mounting in the ground and extending upwardly therefrom. The vertical post section has an interior chamber. A light unit is disposed in the chamber and includes a light source and a rechargeable power supply operatively connected to the light source for energizing the light source and causing the light source to illuminate. There is at least one solar collector operably connected to the rechargeable power supply for collecting solar energy and converting such energy to electric power that is directed to the power supply for recharging thereof. At least one window is formed in the vertical post section adjacent the chamber. The window bears indicia that are highlighted for display upon the window when the light is illuminated and light is transmitted through the window.