Spotlight Optical Element Magnetic Displacement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiators with adjustable optical elements, such as iris diaphragms, require two-handed operation due to the need for turning a knurled screw, posing safety risks when used in high locations and limiting design aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a magnetic element that allows the optical element to be displaced along a rail using a single hand, eliminating the need for a knurled screw and enhancing design flexibility by integrating the magnetic element within the optical element or holder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a knurled screw is used to adjust the optical element, then the optical element can be securely fixed in position, but two-handed operation is required which poses safety risks when used in high locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical screw-thread system with a magnetic field-based holding system. The magnetic element (permanent magnet or electromagnet) on the rail interacts with a ferromagnetic element on the optical element to provide secure fixation without requiring manual screw operation. This allows the optical element to be adjusted and fixed with one hand, eliminating the safety risks associated with two-handed operation on ladders.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary force between the rail and the optical element. Instead of direct mechanical engagement through screw threads, the magnetic field acts as a mediator that provides holding force, allowing for both secure fixation and easy one-handed adjustment.
2Reliability
If a knurled screw is used for adjustment, then the optical element can be firmly held, but the external appearance is limited by the visible screw mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The visible mechanical screw system is replaced with an invisible magnetic field system. The magnetic element can be integrated into the rail structure in a way that is not visually prominent, allowing for cleaner, more aesthetic designs while maintaining firm holding capability through magnetic attraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic element is integrated within the structure of the rail or holder, nesting the functional component within the existing design. This allows the magnetic holding mechanism to be concealed, improving external appearance while maintaining firm fixation of the optical element.
3Ease of operation
If a magnetic element is used to hold the optical element, then one-handed adjustment is enabled, but the magnetic element must be integrated within the optical element or holder
Solution Approach 1:
The holder structure serves multiple functions: it mechanically supports the optical element, provides a mounting location for the magnetic element, and integrates these components into a unified assembly. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity despite the addition of magnetic components.
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 safe, one-handed adjustment of the optical element, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the external appearance by eliminating the need for a knurled screw and additional holding elements.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic element, with the aid of which the optical element is held in one of the at least two longitudinal positions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A spotlight comprises a housing (1), a light source (2) arranged in the housing (1) for generating light, a rail (3) arranged on the housing (1) which extends along a longitudinal direction (L), and an optical element (4) for optically influencing the light, wherein the optical element (4) is arranged to be displaceable back and forth relative to the rail (3) parallel to the longitudinal direction (L) between at least two longitudinal positions, and wherein a magnetic element (5) is provided by means of which the optical element (4) is held in one of the at least two longitudinal positions.