Structural Illumination Panel With Protected Light-Dot Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing illumination panels made of acrylic with printed dots or laser etching are vulnerable to scratches and moisture, leading to uneven light distribution and require a supporting frame for structural use, limiting their applications.
Innovation Solution
A transparent structural core with a matrix of light-releasing and distributing dots on both surfaces, bonded to protective panels using adhesive dots, which increases in density or size away from the light source, forming an integral structure that eliminates the need for a frame and provides protection against damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the acrylic panel carries the matrix of printed dots or laser etching, then light distribution is controlled and even, but the panel becomes vulnerable to scratches and moisture
Solution Approach 1:
A protective layer is introduced as an intermediary between the acrylic panel and the external environment. This protective layer shields the vulnerable dot matrix from scratches and moisture while allowing light to pass through, thus maintaining even light distribution without compromising panel reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination panel is constructed as a composite structure combining the acrylic panel with the protective layer. This composite design integrates the light-distributing function of the dot matrix with the protective function of the outer layer, resolving the contradiction between maintaining even illumination and preventing damage
2Strength
If the acrylic panel is used as a structural element, then it requires a supporting skeleton such as an edge frame, but this increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The protective layer is merged with the structural function, serving simultaneously as both protection for the dot matrix and as a structural element that can replace or reduce the need for additional supporting frames. This integration eliminates separate components and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining structural integrity
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 creates a structural and illuminating panel that is durable, versatile, and can be used without frames, allowing for a wide range of applications, including shelves, signs, and solar-powered panels, while maintaining even light distribution.
Implementation Method 1
The dots of ink affect the refractive and reflective nature of the acrylic and allow light introduced along an edge of the panel to be released across the whole surface area of the panel
Implementation Method 2
the light reflects and refracts more effectively through both surfaces
Implementation Method 3
the dots are an adhesive for bonding the core to each of the protective panels
Data Source
AI summary
An illumination panel includes a transparent structural core having two opposing surfaces, a matrix of light releasing dots substantially covering both the opposing surfaces, and a protective panel in abutting contact with each of the opposing surfaces whereby the dots are an adhesive for bonding the core to the protective panels and wherein the density or size of the dots increases across the illumination panel in a direction away from an illumination panel edge adjacent a light emitting element.